Our Happy Ending

Chapters

Alicornia Syndrome
The Help She Needs
Mercy
Searching For Love

Alicornia Syndrome

Rainbow Dash yawned luxuriously as she stretched her wings, then gently folded them back against her marefriend's back. Beside her reclined Twilight Sparkle, one of Equestria's revered princesses. The pair shared a book within the castle's library, drawn close to the warm embrace of the fireplace, pleasantly enjoying a quiet evening away from both of their duties. Both had grown increasingly occupied in their respective roles since Rainbow Dash's ascent to a Wonderbolt and Twilight's official status as the Princess of Friendship. Thankfully, Spike and Starlight had learned to respect their moments of privacy, adeptly managing any local issues or school affairs that arose without intruding upon their tranquility.

If someone had told Rainbow Dash a few years ago that she would come to cherish quiet evenings spent reading a book, she would have laughed at their face and called you an idiot! But as life often does, much had shifted since she and Twilight had become a couple several years ago – a time when the princess was just an ordinary unicorn, albeit an exceptionally gifted one. They were… even married! She honestly never thought she would marry someone one day!

Twilight wasn’t wearing the ring on her horn right now, not that ponies usually wore their rings frequently, but it was made of gold with a small bright purple gem.

“Are you tired? Or just getting bored of me?” Twilight teased the cyan pegasus with a light tap.

“Ha! You know I could never get bored of ya!” Rainbow Dash replied with a chuckle. “It’s just… It’s the book,” She admitted while gesturing to the book they were reading. Having nearly reached the end, they were at the epilogue.

“Why? What’s wrong with it? You don’t like it?” The alicorn questioned disappointedly. “I know it’s not Daring Do, but I really thought you would enjoy this one…” She muttered while turning the book over. Twilight had started attempting to get Rainbow in other series recently, and even found a few books to her wife’s liking.

“The book is fine. Overall, I enjoyed it but…” Rainbow sighed. “The end is kinda boring. I feel like it’s another happy ending with the characters living happily ever after,” She explained, making Twilight tilt her head.

“You don’t like happy endings?” She arched an eyebrow in surprise.

“I do. Usually. But after seeing them so many times, it just feels boring. Like, just kill all the characters for once. It would be sad, but unexpected. Or better yet! The main character should lose everyone he loves, so he starts a path of revenge or becomes a bad guy, and there’s a follow-up in the next books!” Rainbow Dash told excitedly while Twilight was staring at her with an abnormally large smile. “Uhm… Something wrong, Twi?”

“No, I’m just so… HAPPY!” Twilight suddenly jumped on her wife and squeezed her into a hug between her forelegs and wings. “You’re going through the phase!” She exclaimed with excitement.

“What phase?” Rainbow Dash inquired in confusion.

“The gloomy phase when you only want to see sad and bad endings! I had that one too! But that only means you’re becoming an avid reader!” Twilight responded while still happily embracing the pegasus.

“You’re such an egghead, Twi,” Rainbow Dash snickered as her wife celebrated.

“And you’re going to be one soon too!” The alicorn replied with a smile before pulling away.

"Still not gonna happen," the cyan mare playfully countered, her gaze infused with flirtatiousness as she locked eyes with the princess. Without much hesitation, she leaned in for a brief kiss on Twilight's lips. After their lips parted, the two of them lovingly stared into each other’s eyes until Twilight suddenly broke into a cough. “You alright there, Twi?”

“Koff Koff! Koff! I’m… I’m okay. Don’t worry,” Twilight uttered while holding your head.

“You should really see a doctor… You’ve been coughing like this for over a week!” Rainbow Dash stated, only for Twilight to shake her head.

“It’s only a cold and a migraine. I’m sure I will get better soon,” Twilight argued in a tired tone.

“If you’re sure…” Rainbow Dash began, uncertain, when Twilight suddenly collapsed before her eyes, making them widen in shock. “Twilight!” She shouted as she swiftly grabbed the alicorn the second she hit the ground. She had no idea what was wrong with her, but she knew one thing: she needed to take her to the hospital.

Rainbow Dash walked back and forth along the hospital's corridor, her anxiety palpable as her friends joined her, their collective nerves evident as they awaited the doctor's return with a diagnosis of Twilight's condition. Rainbow Dash had swiftly transported her to the hospital and then alerted their friends, meaning they hadn't yet witnessed Twilight's state, unlike the cyan pegasus.

It was unlike anything she had ever witnessed before. As soon as Twilight had fainted, her complexion grew even paler, and an eerie dark purple radiance enveloped her horn. The glow emitted a curious warmth, and it shimmered as though it was somehow… alive. While she was taking her to the hospital, the glow quickly spread small crack-like tendrils all over her body as if it were breaking.

“Don’t be worried, Rainbow. I’m sure whatever she has isn’t serious,” Fluttershy calmly tried to reassure her as much as she could.

“Worried? I’m not worried! Do I look worried? Twi is a tough gal!” Rainbow nervously and quickly replied.

The others had no time to say anything else before the doctor suddenly came back, joined by none other than Princess Celestia and Luna, and Discord! All of them bore a somber expression, even the Lord of Chaos himself!

If Rainbow Dash wasn’t worried before, she surely was now.

“How is she?!” Rainbow quickly asked, not even bothering to inquire as to why they were there.

“When is she getting better?!” Pinkie voiced as loud as she could, uncaring of the fact that they were still in the hospital.

The others swiftly added their own questions, drowning each other’s voices. However, by only raising a single hoof, Celestia silenced them all.

“I know you are worried and afraid, my little ponies. The doctor and we can explain what is going on with Twilight, but perhaps it is best to discuss it in her room,” Celestia explained as the doctor nodded, thankful.

Rainbow Dash was willing to comply despite her increasing worry about her wife’s well-being. The doctor opened the door for them, letting them all in. Fortunately, while it was a bit small, it still had enough room for all of them.

Twilight’s 5 best friends and Starlight released horrified gasps as their eyes finally landed on her sick form. The alicorn was lying in bed, looking like Rainbow Dash had seen her when she brought her into the hospital. Only she looked even worse. The cracks on her body seemed even darker than before and spread out even more.

Twilight lay connected to various machines, including one that showed her heartbeat. Rainbow Dash couldn't discern what a regular heartbeat should look like, but it seemed fine based on what she saw. Yet, the equipment that unsettled the pegasus the most was the ventilator, complete with a face mask. Why did she need that? Couldn’t she breathe on her own?

“The Alicornia Syndrome,” The doctor interrupted Rainbow Dash’s thoughts. “I’ve… never thought I would ever diagnose somepony with it one day…”

“What… What is this?” Fluttershy nervously and hesitantly asked.

“Don’t tell me Twilight has it!” Starlight interjected as Celestia nodded in regret.

“We have made several analyses, but everything points to Alicornia Syndrome. I also recognize it,” Celestia explained as Luna nodded in agreement. “That is a disease that still has unknown origins. However, only alicorns can catch it. It essentially destroys their magic to its source, then when it’s done, it attacks the body,”

“But you can cure it, right?” Pinkie inquired hopefully, making the princesses wince.

“It’s not something… that is known to have a cure…” Starlight muttered.

“Ah don’t think Ah get what ya mean,” Applejack shook her head in confusion.

“The reason Luna and I were the only alicorns for so long is precisely because of this disease. It is exceptionally deadly,” Celestia revealed.

“C-Can’t you do something? You’re both so strong!” Rarity argued desperately, only for Celestia to lower her head.

“Unfortunately, that disease is the antithesis of alicorn magic. All our attempts at fighting it off will be pointless,” Luna decided to reply in her steed.

“Is that why you brought Discord?” Fluttershy inquired, expecting Discord to simply snap his fingers and cure the lavender alicorn.

The draconequus rubbed his neck awkwardly and looked away.

“I… Uhm… It was, but… I don’t know why, my magic has no effect on this. I tried, I really did, but my powers can’t affect it either, for some reason,” Discord admitted.

“Still, we will do everything we can to help her. Medicinal magic has greatly advanced since this disease disappeared last. But if we can’t…” Celestia bit her lower lip.

“Twilight is going to… die?” Pinkie’s ears dropped, voicing everyone’s fears.

The room was deathly silent as no soul dared to speak up, mostly because they didn’t know what to say or even how to process this information. All of them were certainly tearful, except for the doctor and Discord. The Lord of Chaos was still shaken up, though. It was the first time he was faced with losing a friend.

Until now, the most surprising reaction was Rainbow Dash herself, Twilight’s wife. The cyan pegasus was standing still, looking at the floor in silence while shaking.

“Liar…” She muttered, attracting everyone’s attention to her. “You’re a liar!” She suddenly shouted at Discord, looking up and revealing the tears streaming down her eyes. “I bet this is just another one of your stupid lessons or tests, you bastard. Stop joking around and fix her up already!” She screamed as she angrily poked his chest.

“I wish it was a joke, but I really can’t do anything,” Discord raised his hands in surrender.

“And what about you?!” The pegasus threw a look at the two other alicorns in the room. “Making a big fuss like that! It’s as if you’re announcing she’s already dead! Well, she’s not! And she’s stronger than those stupid alicorns before her! I know that’s not enough to bring her down!” She yelled while getting into Celestia’s face, only to be pulled back by Applejack.

“I’m sorry, Rainbow Dash. I know you are the one who is hurt the most, but…” Celestia began as the cyan pegasus groaned and stomped the floor.

“Shut up! Didn’t you say it attacks her magic or something? Just cut off her horn and she’ll get better I bet!” The cyan pegasus instructed the doctor in the room.

“It is theoretically plausible, but that would only work when the disease was still dormant. Once it’s awake, it spreads all over the body nearly instantly. Amputating the horn is not a viable solution anymore,” He retorted, almost afraid to receive Rainbow Dash’s ire.

“No way… You’re lying…” Twilight’s wife stammered as her breathing got heavier and heavier.

“It’s gonna be okay, Dashie,” A teary-eyed Pinkie put a reassuring hoof on the cyan pegasus’s shoulder.

Rainbow wasn’t listening. She couldn’t listen! How could she when it seemed that the world was suddenly crumbling around her?! This must have been a nightmare, right? She would wake up any second now, wouldn’t she?

The pegasus turned to look at the lavender pony lying in the bed, her eyes closed and her horn glowing with the same ominous light she had seen earlier. She couldn’t… She couldn’t accept that!

She let out a cry before pushing the two alicorn princesses out of the way and flying out of the room, and then out of the hospital. She ignored the calling of her friends while she flapped her wings as hard as she could, wanting to put as much distance from that hospital as she could. With tears still clouding her vision, she nearly slammed into a large tree and avoided it, only to crash to the ground.

Used to those crashes, she didn’t feel much pain as she rolled several meters on the floor before coming to a stop. She wheezed, then checked her surroundings, noticing Twilight’s castle in the distance.

She nearly choked on her tears as a distant memory flashed before her eyes.

Twilight, who was still a unicorn at the time, stayed still and speechless in her library. Rainbow Dash, who was facing her, sweated nervously.

“A-A date? With me?” Twilight pointed at herself, dumbfounded.

“Yup… A date…” Rainbow Dash repeated, doing her best to keep herself from turning into a stuttering mess even worse than Fluttershy.

“I… Uhm. Why me?” Twilight asked in confusion, her cheeks red.

“Why wouldn't it be you?” Rainbow retorted before she could even think. “You’re cool! You know how to kick ass, and you’re super strong! And… you’re smart. And I didn’t think I would even like eggheads. But you got me into Daring Do, and you never treated me like I was an idiot. You always do your best to help your friends. Most of all, though, I’m just happy whenever I am with you,” She explained before blushing. “And you’re pretty cute too,” She added.

The pegasus breathed out, feeling like she finally had a weight lifted off her shoulders. She couldn’t even sleep for days because she was stressed over this and over these feelings. Nevertheless, she was still filled with fear as she awaited the unicorn’s response.

Twilight was blushing, understandably, while looking at Rainbow Dash.

“Wow… I didn’t know you felt this way about me, Rainbow. I’m flattered, but…” She began, bringing the pegasus’ hopes down instantly. There it was. The rejection. “I never thought of you this way. I honestly never even thought of romance before. But I’m willing to give this a chance and try to see where it leads us,”

“W-What? Wait. You mean…” Rainbow Dash started in bewilderment.

“Yes, I’ll go on a date with you, Rainbow,” Twilight smiled happily as she was suddenly swept up in the air by two blue forelegs.

“Yes! Yes! Yes! Haha! I knew you wouldn’t resist me!” The element of loyalty exclaimed eagerly while the unicorn snickered. “And we’ll go on a lot more dates! We’ll be the most awesome couple in Equestria! You’ll see!” She assured her confidently.

“I’m sure it will be awesome, Rainbow,” Twilight laughed along with her future marefriend.

With Twilight’s laugh still in the back of her head, Rainbow Dash choked on her tears. It couldn’t end this way. It wasn’t fair!

It wasn’t fair.

The Help She Needs

Rainbow Dash gently brushed her hoof through Twilight's mane, the lavender mare lying motionless in the hospital bed. The only signs of activity were the pulsating vein-like patterns that continued to spread across her body. Only two days had passed since the illness had surfaced, yet even to Rainbow's discerning gaze, it was evident that Twilight's condition had significantly deteriorated.

It was so obvious! But the doctors were saying she was stable. They were either incompetent or were lying. Twilight was getting worse and worse. Maybe it would take months or years (thanks to Celestia’s so-called great medical advancement), but she would end up… Twilight's life was slipping away.

Peering out the window, the cyan pegasus was greeted by the gentle embrace of the morning sun as it bathed Equestria in its warm light. Ponies bustled about, each seemingly immersed in their own content lives. Her gaze fell upon Big Mac walking with Sugar Belle by his side, and even Bulk Biceps jogged past as if everything was perfectly normal.

It wasn’t fair. Why were they all happy? Twilight was dying! The world was bleak, cold, and lonesome, everything should be miserable. Everyone should be sad and depressed! So why did they act like nothing happened?! The whole world should be crying and praying for her!

The world wouldn’t even BE there if it weren’t for her! Rainbow Dash wouldn’t be there if it weren’t for her… The pegasus glanced down, looking at the wedding ring hanging from her neck. She decided to wear it today. A part of her hoped Twilight would feel it and somehow get better with the power of love or something. She supposed that even the magic of friendship or love had its limits.

Her eyes wandered to the side, where a book was lying on the edge of Twilight’s bed. She picked it up and attempted to smile.

“So, how did you like it? It’s the book you really wanted to read,” Rainbow Dash asked, but received no response in return. “I know I don’t read as well as you do, but I hope you understood most of it, at least,” She said as her wife remained silent. “The first thing I did when I calmed down was to buy it, you know. I remember how I couldn’t stop you from talking about how much you wanted to buy it. Was that a hint that you wanted it for your birthday?” Rainbow chuckled while rubbing the back of her neck.

The lavender alicorn still held her eyes closed, softly breathing with the help of the ventilator mask. Rainbow sighed before standing up from her chair and hugging the pony on the bed.

“We’ll get through this, Twi. I know we will,” Rainbow Dash whispered with her eyes closed, firmly holding her wife in her wings and forelegs. “I’m… I’m even ready to give up on my position of wonderbolt if that’s what it takes to get you back…” She added while nuzzling her asleep wife.

“Really?” Twilight arched an eyebrow in surprise as a soft violin played in the background. “Spitfire actually let you take a month off? What did you tell her?” She asked in surprise as Rainbow blushed.

“Hehe, that’s a surprise, but it’s for a very special occasion. I’m sure you’ll love it!” Rainbow Dash replied with a grin.

Both of them sat across from each other in a fancy restaurant. The restaurant's ambiance was a symphony of warm, subdued lighting, tasteful décor, and the subtle fragrance of exotic blooms that adorned the room. Soft murmurs of conversation from other diners, clinking of cutlery, and the occasional burst of laughter created a gentle hum that added to the allure of the environment.

The two of them had been dating for quite some time now. Easily a few years and each day seemed happier than the last. Of course, they had their fights, but they were always swiftly resolved.

“Oh, so it’s a surprise for me?” Twilight inquired while batting her eyelashes.

“Nope! Not gonna get any more answers out of me, Twi!” The cyan pegasus shook her head teasingly, making her marefriend chuckle.

“Well, at least, I tried,” She said before giving her marefriend a smirk. “I actually also have a surprise for you,” She revealed, easily earning Rainbow’s curiosity.

“Let me guess, you’re not going to tell me what it is?” She supposed as Twilight nodded in response.

“Wouldn’t be much of a surprise if I did,” She replied with a small laugh.

“You’re teasing me,” Rainbow flatly stated, trying to pretend she was mad, only to spectacularly fail when she couldn’t keep her smile off her face.

“You started first!” Twilight playfully tapped Rainbow’s shoulder with her wing.

The pegasus grinned, her wing brushing against Twilight's, which brought a charming blush to the alicorn's cheeks. Lately, Twilight had been attempting to utilize her wings like hooves more often, seeking to embrace some of the pegasus culture. It was a subtle effort to impress both Rainbow Dash and her parents, as well as to bring happiness to her marefriend. Rainbow didn’t outright say how touched she was since Twilight tried to be sneaky about it (and failed utterly), but even if she had a much easier time talking about her feelings, the wonderbolt was still a bit timid with some of them.

“So, you know what’s up with my job, what about yours? Anything exciting happened?” Rainbow asked.

The pegasus already knew that Twilight didn’t leave for Canterlot or any other place in and out of Equestria for diplomatic missions since… well they lived together, so she would have definitely noticed. She was also aware that nothing major was happening. At least, nothing that would endanger the world. However, ever since they started dating, Rainbow Dash became more interested in the little things or the things she would have seen as boring before. Such as laws or politics. Actually, she still thought it was as boring as Tartarus! The thing, though, Twilight wasn’t boring. And Twilight knew how to make boring things… Not boring!

“Oh, I don’t want to bother you with my troubles,” Twilight waved with one of her hooves as Rainbow Dash playfully rolled her eyes.

“So something did happen! Come on, you know you want to tell me about it, egghead,” Rainbow urged her.

“Mayor Mare wanted my help with something. A family of three from Las Pegasus wanted to settle in Ponyville, and bought a house on the outskirts,” Twilight finally decided to explain as Rainbow arched an eyebrow.

“Why is that a trouble?”

“Because apparently, that house wasn’t supposed to be for sale. A pony from Las Pegasus scammed them since they were looking for a cheap house away from the city,” Twilight explained as Rainbow whistled.

“They’re all the way from Las Pegasus? Why did Mayor Mare need your help though? She could have just said it wasn’t for sale and let them deal with that scammer themselves,” The cyan pegasus shrugged.

“It’s not that easy, unfortunately. Understandably, the family wasn’t happy about this, and they weren’t willing to cooperate with Mayor Mare until they got the house they were promised. They didn’t even ask for the seller’s name once they saw how relatively cheap the house was! How are we even supposed to find him?” Twilight complained. “Mayor Mare tried to give them a temporary home until they could get tickets for Last Pegasus and told them she would look into ways to get their money back via insurance and even sell them another house here in Ponyville. After even more arguing, she sent them over to me since Ponyville is technically under my jurisdiction. Now I have to somehow convince the original house owner, who moved to Manehattan by the way, to sell them their house,” She shook her head in annoyance.

“Darn, that looks like a real bother. It’s kinda sad they got scammed, but they should be reasonable with the ponies trying to help them, at least!” Twilight’s marefriend commented, making the lavender alicorn nod in agreement.

“It’s not the first time I have to deal with problems like these, unfortunately. When so many disagreeable ponies come to meet you, expecting you to fix all their issues with a simple horn lift, you just start tuning them out,” Twilight sighed as she rubbed her forehead.

“You know, if you have any problems with them, you can call me and I’ll deal with it,” Rainbow assured her, earning a small giggle from her marefriend.

“Thank you, Rainbow, but I would rather not see how you will deal with them,” Twilight laughed. “My day wasn’t all bad, though!” She suddenly said as her marefriend’s ears perked up.

“Oh, yeah? You got some good news?” Rainbow Dash asked with curiosity.

“Not news. Your fan letters! Some of them were so cute! You didn’t tell me you were a little filly’s pen pal,” Twilight grinned, making the pegasus’ eyes widen.

“Oh, well… Poor girl was lonely and is a huge fan, apparently. Thought everyone at school would love her if her first friend was Rainbow Dash!” She blushed while rubbing the back of her neck.

“No one will think less of you because of touchy feelings, you know? Personally, I think what you did is adorable,” Twilight grinned as Rainbow cleared her throat awkwardly.

“I am not adorable! A-Anyway, you need a vacation, Twi. And something tells me that you’ll have one soon…” She smiled confidently as a waiter suddenly walked up to them, holding a tray with two glasses of a pink drink.

“Your cocktails, my ladies,” The waiter said as he put the drinks in front of the couple. Both smiled knowingly while looking at each other.

“After you,” Twilight offered as she motioned for Rainbow Dash to take a sip.

“No, no, you do it first,” The cyan mare shook her head as she grinned and motioned Twilight’s drink.

“I insist, Rainbow. Take a sip. You won’t regret it, believe me,”

“And you won’t regret it either!” Rainbow Dash replied enthusiastically.

“Let’s just drink at the same time! What do you say?” Twilight suggested as Rainbow reluctantly nodded.

“Alright, I guess I’m fine with that,” She said as she picked up her glass while Twilight did the same.

They shared a quick, sidelong glance, their eyes meeting briefly as they each took a sip of their drink. Abruptly, their expressions transformed into wide-eyed surprise, almost in perfect synchrony, as they both sputtered and coughed out their cocktails. They exchanged astonished glances, then instinctively extended their tongues to find a small ring resting there.

“A ring? Did they put it in the wrong drink?” They both exclaimed in surprise and confusion at the same time as they picked up the rings. “Wait! What did you say?” They asked in unison.

The couple looked at each other in silence, their eyes wide in uncertainty as they both slowly realized what just happened. Unexpectedly, they burst out laughing.

“Did you…?” “You were…” They started talking at the same time, only for Twilight to shake her head.

“That’s your ring, right?” She inquired while pointing at the ring she was holding.

“And this is yours?” Rainbow pointed at the ring she was holding while her marefriend nodded in response.

“So… I suppose we both got the same idea…” Twilight blushed while looking away, which was something Rainbow Dash was quick to do once she remembered what she was about to ask.

“Yeah… And? What’s your answer?” The cyan mare nervously asked while Twilight’s blush deepened.

“What do you think? I could never say no to you… What about your answer?” The alicorn replied.

“Yes! Of course, yes! I won’t leave you hangin’, Twi!” Rainbow Dash quickly retorted confidently as silence settled between them for a second time, only for the two of them to laugh again.

“When did we become such a couple of dorks?” The alicorn laughed in amusement.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Pinkie somehow pranked us into proposing the same day,” Rainbow Dash wiped a tear away. Suddenly, the pegasus, along with her chair, was pulled away by magic before Twilight jumped on her and wrapped her forelegs and wings around her. “Twi?” She inquired with a hint of worry, which subsided instantly once she noticed the alicorn’s smile.

“I’m getting married. We’re getting married,” She simply stated in disbelief and joy.

“Yup, we are,” Rainbow Dash returned the hug and put her head on top of her marefriend’s. “I think this is the second-best day of my life,”

“The second?” Twilight asked with an eyebrow raised.

“The first is going to be our wedding day, obviously,” She retorted

“Never change, Rainbow,” Twilight snorted.

The cyan pegasus gazed deeply into her marefriend's eyes, words seemingly caught in her throat as if her breath had been stolen away. Memories flooded her mind, of the first time she had ever locked eyes with Twilight. Back when they were both younger, naive about the complexities of relationships, be they friendships or something deeper. At that time, they hadn't even realized their attraction to mares. How far they had come, how much had changed – the thought nearly brought a tear to Rainbow's eye, a subtle shift that didn't escape Twilight's notice.

Their faces slowly moved closer and closer until their lips met, filling each other with warmth as their hearts skipped a beat. They ignored the cheering and clapping of the other clients as everything around them slowly vanished. For something so special, they only needed to feel each other. Being in such a tight, warm, and loving embrace convinced Rainbow Dash that, perhaps, there was nothing they wouldn’t be able to face together.

“Ahem. Excuse me. Excuse me!” Someone’s voice suddenly broke Rainbow Dash out of her memory.

“Huh? What?” Rainbow Dash rubbed her eyes tiredly as she sat up, slowly realizing where she was. This was still Twilight’s hospital bed. And the one that woke her up was a doctor, the same one that, along with the princesses and Discord, gave her the bad news.

“I understand your position, but sleeping in our patient’s beds, especially when they are still using them, is strictly forbidden. Also, the visiting hours are over,” He scolded the pegasus lightly.

“So what? I’m not getting out until my wife is fine!” Rainbow Dash responded stubbornly, making the doctor grimace.

“Princess, please. She needs her rest. All our patients do. I already made arrangements so you could stay here the whole day, and I know this is difficult, but it will only get harder if we can’t cooperate,” The doctor argued in a pleading tone.

Rainbow Dash clenched her teeth and looked away, noticing that night had fallen.

“So, wait… Am I gonna be a princess after I marry you?” Her own voice resonated in her mind.

“My brother did become a prince after he married Cadance, so probably, yes!” Twilight’s soft voice followed suit shortly after.

“Woah… I never thought I would become a princess before. Am I gonna get a horn?” She asked excitedly, only for Twilight to laugh in response.

“Haha! We’ll see!”

“You…” Rainbow Dash stared at the doctor, then glanced down at her sleeping wife. She didn’t look any better, that was for sure. The pegasus sighed. “Alright. I’m going,” Being with Twilight taught her to be more reasonable, after all. “Goodbye, Twi,” She said softly before planting a gentle kiss on the alicorn’s head and walking away.

Once she was out, she decided to walk to the castle instead of using her wings. She wasn’t even in the mood to fly. Being in the sky always brought her relief and peace of mind. It was the one thing that could calm her when everything else failed. There was a time when a whole day spent soaring through the open sky could make her concerns and the world around her seem inconsequential. Those flying sessions had been her sanctuary.

Yet, since her marriage to Twilight, she had found that she needed those flights less and less. The alicorn was remarkably adept at offering reassurance, surpassing even the calming effect of the sky.

However, she refused to even try calming herself or forgetting about her worries. How could she forget about Twilight? She wouldn’t be the bearer of loyalty if she did. And she wouldn’t be a good partner if she did. Truthfully, she was pretty sure flying wouldn’t even make any of this better. The sky also seemed cold and dark lately. And it should be. That was what she wanted, wasn’t it? Everything should be sad. Everyone should be crying, but perhaps this was a selfish wish. She didn’t particularly care how selfish it was, though.

Twilight would probably scold her.

“Rainbow? What are ya doing here?” Someone pulled the pegasus out of her thoughts. Finally, glancing around, Rainbow Dash laid her eyes on none other than Applejack. The earth pony seemed worried.

“I’m going home. Isn’t that obvious?” Rainbow replied coldly, unwilling to converse longer as she walked away, only for the other mare to follow her.

“What are ya doing on the ground?” Applejack cocked an eyebrow.

“My wings got tired,” The cyan mare retorted just as coldly as earlier and went on her way without pausing.

The farm pony stayed silent, grimacing at Rainbow’s obvious poor state of mind. As her friend, she couldn’t just leave her be. So she followed, running after the pegasus until she reached her again.

“Ah guess you visited Twilight?” The earth pony remarked as Rainbow simply glanced at her from the corner of her eye.

“Yeah. Been there the whole day,” She replied before pausing and growing silent. It seemed she was pondering whether she should say something or not. However, she didn’t think too long before speaking again. “You weren’t, though. None of you came except for Pinkie and Spike, actually,” She said in an accusing tone.

“We came yesterday. Ya… Ya were still in your room, so we didn’t want to bother ya in case ya needed some time,” Applejack explained, choosing to ignore Rainbow Dash’s tone.

“Doesn’t mean you can’t come today too,” She retorted dismissively as Applejack frowned. “Got something more important to do?”

“Rainbow Dash. What are ya implying?” She questioned as the pegasus finally stopped walking.

“I’m not implying anything. I’m just asking if you have anything more important to do than visiting your… Your dying best friend in the hospital,” The cyan pegasus shook her head. Applejack’s first reflex was to gasp in response before growing again.

“Are ya serious?! Ah ain’t working because Ah think it’s more important than Twilight! But Ah can’t just miss whole workdays when Ah have ponies to feed! We all do!” Applejack argued in anger. “We’ll still visit her, but what else do ya expect us to do?!” She asked while Rainbow remained silent. She either didn’t know what to answer or simply refused to.

“I just want her to know she’s not alone. And right now, she probably thinks I’m the only one she has. Even her parents, her brother, and Cadance are coming only tomorrow!” Rainbow Dash snapped, stomping the ground. She choked back a tear, refusing to allow Applejack to see her cry. The earth pony still managed to notice that the pegasus didn’t need an argument, but help. She swiftly calmed herself.

“Look… Ah understand what you’re saying. It’s hard fer everypony, and we’re all dealing with it differently,” Applejack softly spoke. “Just know that all of us care about Twilight and hope the princesses find a way to cure her,”

“AJ…” Rainbow Dash muttered, almost sounding apologetic. Likely because of her initial reactions to Applejack’s worry for her. “I’m sorry. I’m happy you and the others got my back, but…” She began explaining until she paused, her eyes landing on a bar. The Stardust Sip and Gallop was the second and most popular bar in Ponyville.

“Rainbow!” Twilight ran after her marefriend as the pegasus was walking out of the bar.

“Can you believe these guys?! Kicking us out?!” The cyan mare grumbled while stomping the ground as she walked.

“I’m not surprised! With that commotion you caused! I thought you were going to punch that stallion!” Twilight yelled as she flew up to her.

“Of course, I was! Did you see what that guy was doing?!” Rainbow Dash unfolded her wings in anger while Twilight cocked an eyebrow in confusion. “He was totally checking you out! Openly staring at your butt! Then he flirts with you as if I wasn’t there! And he was way too close too!” She snapped, then looked away.

Finally, the lavender alicorn understood and sighed sympathetically.

“Oh, Rainbow… But that’s nothing serious. I’m pretty sure some stallions and even mares checked you out too. It’s not a big deal,” She responded.

“Not a big deal?! Not a big deal?! Yes, it is!” The pegasus fumed with her face red, only for Twilight to narrow her eyes.

“Why?” She asked, making Rainbow pause in surprise.

“Huh?” She uttered in confusion.

“Why is it a big deal?” Twilight clarified as her marefriend blushed in embarrassment.

“W-Well…” Her eyes wandered from side to side. It was obvious she didn’t dare to answer for one reason or another. However, the princess quickly figured out what the problem was.

“Are you worried that I’ll fall for him? That I’ll cheat on you?” Twilight questioned her, making her step back while sweating.

“N-No! But… It’s just…” She stuttered, unable to form a correct sentence while Twilight’s eyes were burning holes into her head.

“Rainbow! You know I wouldn’t do that! Especially not because of false flattery and cheap flirting!” She exclaimed offendedly. This was enough to rid the pegasus of all the anger she was feeling and fall back on her haunches.

“I know, I know. I’m a stupid screw-up,” She groaned with her head hanging down. Twilight’s glare softened as she walked up to her marefriend and put a hoof on her shoulder.

“No, you’re not,” She denied reassuringly.

“Yes, I am. I know you wouldn’t cheat on me, alright? I know that. I just couldn’t help it. I got jealous,” She lamented with her head still hanging low. Twilight caressed her marefriend’s back, encouraging her to continue. “It’s the first time I’m taking a relationship so seriously…”

“Really?” Twilight blurted out in surprise.

“Yeah… I mean, I liked the guys I dated, otherwise, I wouldn’t have given them the honor of dating the coolest pony in Equestria,” Rainbow Dash began, making Twilight lightly chuckle. “But I never had with them, what I have with you. I sure didn’t get jealous when a mare or two was flocking around them! I like like you Twilight, and I’m… scared you’ll stop liking me. I know it’s stupid,” Her shoulders slumped.

“No, it’s not. There’s nothing wrong with being scared of something like that, Dashie,” Twilight comforted her as she sat beside her marefriend. “At least, I know you care!” She teased, lightly punching the pegasus’ shoulder, which seemed to help bring her mood a little. “But you don’t have to be afraid. The only cheap flirting I like is yours,” She grinned in amusement.

“Har har, you’re hilarious,” Rainbow rolled her eyes. She wasn’t really offended, but come on, she was having a serious moment there!

“This is my first relationship, as you know, so I can’t say I have a lot of experience. But I do know one thing: I love you, I always have, and I always will. Nothing is ever going to change that. I don’t need any other romantic relationship to know that,” Twilight put a wing over the other mare. “So you can be sure a stallion checking me out won’t change it. Not even Discord could!”

“What if we change?”

“That’s not gonna happen,” Twilight snickered. “I know you’re too stubborn for that,” This time, Rainbow Dash grinned too. The pegasus was finally willing to meet her marefriend’s eyes.

“I’m sorry,” She apologized in a whisper.

“I already forgave you,” Twilight kissed her on the cheek before standing up and helping Rainbow Dash to her hooves. “Let’s just go to Sugarcube Corner. I’m sure we’ll have more fun over there anyway,” She stated before walking away, holding Rainbow’s wing with hers.

“Oh, hey, Twilight!” Rainbow called out to her, stopping in her tracks, which made Twilight pause too. The alicorn turned around, curious and wondering if the pegasus still had more issues to talk about. “Uhm… I love you too. Always will,” She declared with a blush.

Twilight’s face lit up and her eyes twinkled. The mare gave her marefriend a heartwarming smile and moved closer to her until their mouths were only a few inches away from connecting.

“I know,”

Rainbow Dash blinked, trying to remove the small tears in her eyes. Thankfully, they went unnoticed by the earth pony standing at her side. She was still aware that her friend was obviously crestfallen, so she did the only thing she thought she could do and put a comforting hoof on Rainbow’s shoulder.

“Ah know ya need some time, but if ya ever need something. We’re here,” She stated, referring to their friend group. “Ah am here,” She added, which managed to attract Rainbow’s attention back to her. The pegasus looked at the mare’s hoof, then at Applejack herself. She furrowed her brow and violently brushed the hoof off before walking away.

“I don’t need anything. Twilight does,” She declared and left as quickly as she could.

This was as much as she wanted to talk, so Applejack didn’t push it further and let her go. All she hoped now was that Princess Celestia and Luna would find a solution, and if they didn’t… That Rainbow Dash would seek comfort from her friends.

Mercy

“Again? Rainbow, your last letter was from 7 hours ago!” Spike complained as he stopped writing on the parchment on Twilight’s desk. Since she was… occupied, he was in charge of some of her paperwork, sometimes helped by Starlight.

“And?” The cyan pegasus cocked an eyebrow stubbornly.

“Do you really think the princesses made any progress in the last 7 hours when they’ve been working at it for two weeks with no breakthrough yet?” He asked with crossed arms.

Spike had undergone significant changes since the day they first met. The baby dragon wasn’t much of a baby anymore. In fact, he now stood nearly as tall as Rainbow Dash, if not a tad taller. His impressive musculature and increased stature would surely have been intimidating to those ponies who hadn't known him as a baby. Naturally, his wings had also grown to match his newfound size.

“Maybe they did, how would you know if you don’t ask them?” Rainbow replied in faint anger. She was trying to get a hold of her temper, but it was understandably difficult because of the circumstances.

“Then they would have sent me a letter as soon as they did. I’m sure they’re trying the hardest they can, but pestering them by sending 10 letters a day asking for their progress won’t help,” Spike argued as the pegasus groaned in annoyance, clenching her teeth. She didn’t want to admit he was right, but he was making some sense…

“It doesn’t feel like it!” She stomped the floor before pacing around the room.

“Rainbow Dash…” Spike whispered worriedly, dropping his quill on the desk as he stared at his friend. It seemed her behavior erased all traces of annoyance and anger behind his eyes. “Maybe you should try to rest, and just… Just trust them, okay? You’re obviously not doing okay. The only times the girls and I see you are when we visit Twilight or when you want me to write a letter to the princesses,” He said softly as Rainbow paused, taking in his words.

“Do ya expect me to relax when… How am I supposed to just rest and trust them when Twilight is on her deathbed? Of course, I’m gonna worry!” She responded.

“And I understand that. Really, I do. It’s not like I’m relaxing either. I’m basically drowning myself in paperwork just to avoid thinking about all this!” The dragon retorted while motioning at the parchments on the desk. “And I’m sure everyone is doing something along those lines. If you need to talk to somepony, then your friends are here for you,” He explained, which obviously also included him.

“You think I don’t know that?” She spat. It seemed she was almost ready to snap at him, but then simply sighed instead. “You don’t get it. The girls are… They’re losing their best friend. You and Shining Armor are losing a sister,” She pointed out as Spike looked down, unsure of where she was going with this. “Her parents are losing a daughter, but… I’m losing my wife,” She blinked several times, seemingly trying to keep her tears from spilling out. “If something happens… Something that can’t be fixed… Then I won’t get better with a talk or even a million talks,” She admitted before letting silence settle between them.

Spike tentatively raised his hand, perhaps to comfort her, only to pull back a second later.

“I… I’m sorry. I can’t say I know what you’re going through,” He exhaled. After all, he was never married himself. He never even dated since the only one he ever had a crush on was Rarity, and look how that turned out.

“You know what? I’ll just leave. Twilight might be wondering where I am,” Rainbow Dash stated before flying off. Spike didn’t even have the time to tell her anything else as she burst out of the castle.

He doubted Twilight was even aware of Rainbow's presence in the room. Based on what he had observed himself, even when the alicorn was awake, she appeared completely disconnected. She didn't speak, didn't fix her gaze on anything, and barely moved. She just stared blankly ahead. Witnessing her in such a state was excruciating, which was why he limited his visits to once a day, spending only half an hour with her. In contrast, Rainbow Dash often stayed for entire days, especially when the doctors couldn't persuade her to leave. Spike felt a pang of shame, as the other girls also dedicated substantial time to their visits, whereas he struggled to stay for even an hour.

He sighed before turning his attention to one of the letters he had received from Princess Celestia. It was one of the letters he had kept hidden from Rainbow, mainly because Twilight's situation appeared quite dire. He dreaded the thought of how the pegasus would react if she were to discover it.

Dear Spike,

I have received Rainbow Dash, your and the others’ letters. Twilight is truly lucky to have all of you by her side. To know that you are cared about is the greatest gift any pony could ask for. As we have promised, Luna and I are working hard on finding some kind of cure or a way to stop the disease from spreading further, even Princess Cadance abandoned her duties in the Crystal Empire to look through the oldest books in the empire’s castle’s library.

As ancient as my sister and I may be, there are still many mysteries in this world that elude us, unfortunately. Our efforts have yielded limited progress, but from what we have unearthed, the Alicornia Syndrome has existed since the time of the very first alicorn. Regrettably, there is no record in any Equestrian tome that provides a hint of a potential cure or explains the origins of this malady. Please, do not lose hope. Starswirl and the other pillars have volunteered to venture beyond Equestria's borders in their quest for possible answers elsewhere.

I truly hope we find something before Twilight’s disease reaches its final stage. If it does, then all will be lost. For now, the future is looking grim.

Princess Celestia,

She could have at least tried to make it less depressing at the end, but Spike supposed he couldn’t blame her. She couldn’t give them all false hope either because it would only hurt even more if they failed. For his part, no matter the case, Spike would believe in them and Twilight until the end. After everything they’ve been through, it couldn’t end like this. That was… too grim of an ending for him.

He considered at least showing this letter to the other girls, but he couldn’t risk them talking about it to Rainbow, who would, undoubtedly, fly to Celestia and snap at her.

The teenage dragon gazed down at the desk cluttered with paperwork, his eyes narrowed in weariness. He appeared more fatigued than anything else, but suddenly, he erupted with frustration. He seized the desk and hurled it against the wall with tremendous force, shattering it into pieces.

"RAAAAAA!" He roared as loudly as he could, clenching his fists tightly. He raised them high into the air, prepared to strike out at anything that crossed his path, but then he gradually lowered them. As much as he yearned to unleash his frustration by breaking things, he knew Twilight had taught him better than that.

He had hoped that she would still be here to continue teaching him and guiding him.

“Just give me at least half an hour for Celestia’s sake!” Rainbow Dash screamed, unconcerned by the looks she received from the other visitors, medical staff, and patients in the hallway.

“I apologize, Princess, but Princess Twilight needs her rest and you’ve already overstayed your welcome. If you continue to disturb our other patients by causing more commotion, then I’ll have to call security,” The nurse warned as the cyan pegasus rolled her eyes.

“Yeah, see if I care. As if they could make me leave anyway,” She scoffed in dismissal as she unfolded her wings, ready to push the nurse out of the way.

“Just let her in,” Someone sighed, pulling their attention away. It was the doctor Rainbow was familiar with, and he was accompanied by Nurse Redheart.

“But… Doctor! She’s been here all morning already!” The first nurse responded in outrage.

“I wasn’t! I had to leave for something, and now I’m back!” Rainbow Dash retorted in annoyance.

“And she’s disturbing the other patients with her screaming!” The nurse added, making the cyan pegasus groan.

“That’s because you don’t want to let me in!” Rainbow slammed a hoof on the floor while the doctor sighed and rubbed his forehead.

“Right now, you’re both screaming. This will do no good to anyone. Princess Rainbow, I understand what you’re feeling. Everypony here does,” The doctor motioned the hallway, gesturing to the patients and visitors. Rainbow frowned but didn’t respond. “I’ll give you thirty minutes, but no more,”

“Thanks,” Rainbow simply said before going in, ignoring the nurse’s glare.

The doctor watched her close the door behind her before turning his attention to the nurse who argued with Rainbow Dash.

“I’m sorry about that. She is a bit… impulsive,” He explained as the nurse nodded, accepting his apology. It wasn’t like she was mad at him, after all. The one she actually wanted an apology from was the princess, but she guessed that was still better than nothing.

Rainbow let out a tired sigh. Why did they have to be so stubborn? It should have been simple – just let her in, and she wouldn't bother anyone. She only wanted to be with her wife during these challenging times, and it appeared they didn't truly comprehend her intentions. She had no desire to prolong the argument any further.

Walking up to Twilight's bed, she gently brushed a hoof through her mane. The alicorn didn't seem to have improved, but at least she wasn't worse either.

“Hey. Sorry, I had to leave earlier. I wanted to send a letter to Princess Celestia,” Rainbow explained.

The alicorn was awake, but she didn't seem to acknowledge the presence of the pegasus beside her. According to the doctor, Alicornia Syndrome had likely impaired her vision, rendering her partially blind. It was also possible that she lacked the strength to move her body, as she remained entirely still. However, Rainbow had faith that Twilight could hear her. Regardless of whether she displayed any signs of acknowledgment, Rainbow didn't require confirmation to know that her words were reaching her wife.

“Spike can barely handle all that paperwork, you know,” Rainbow chuckled as she rubbed the back of her neck. “I would help him, but I literally have no idea what any of it means… The faster you get better, the faster he can rest,” She added sheepishly.

Rainbow Dash fell silent, allowing a hush to envelop them both. She gazed at her wife, her mind struggling to find words. Over the past two weeks, she had spent countless hours talking to Twilight, but now, it felt as though she had exhausted nearly every topic. There wasn't much occurring in her life lately, as she was confined to this room. However, that was perfectly fine with Rainbow. Words weren't always necessary. As long as her wife knew she was there, that was enough.

Suddenly, Twilight's lips began to move, their motion slow and feeble. Rainbow Dash's eyes widened in astonishment as she watched the alicorn's mouth opening and closing. She was saying something—actually talking! Twilight hadn't spoken a single word since being admitted to the hospital!

“Twilight!” Rainbow exclaimed in happiness as she moved her head closer to the princess’ lips to listen. Unfortunately, because of the mask Twilight was wearing, her words were inaudible. Hesitantly, the pegasus looked from left to right, checking no one else was in the room with her, then pulled the mask off Twilight’s face. “What is it?”

Immediately, Twilight began to wheeze desperately, her breaths shallow and strained. It seemed as though she was choking on something or that her lungs were barely functioning. However, Rainbow understood that this was not the case. It was merely a reaction brought on by the disease. According to what the doctor and the princesses had explained, this was just another symptom. The breathing difficulties wouldn't prove fatal, even though they undoubtedly caused her considerable discomfort.

“It’s okay! I’m here, Twi! I-I’m sorry, can you repeat what you said?”

“Rainbow… Rainbow…” Twilight weakly muttered with a coarse voice through her heavy breathing.

“I’m here!” Rainbow Dash responded while the alicorn was still repeating her name.

“It hurts… Rain… bow… It hurts… Please…” Twilight managed to utter while her heart rate was increasing more and more. “Please…”

“I-I know! But don’t worry, everyone is looking for a cure. You’ll be better soon!” Rainbow Dash assured her while caressing the top of her head.

“It hurts… Please… Kill… Kill… Me,” Twilight, with empty eyes, whispered through her pain as her wife suddenly paled until her face was completely white.

“What?” Rainbow asked with wide eyes, unsure if she heard the alicorn correctly. “What did you say?”

“Please… Rainbow… Kill… Me… Hurts… So much,” She responded with the little strength she had. “Please… Please… Rainbow… Dashie…”

“A-Are you crazy? No! I’m not… I’m not gonna do that!” Rainbow Dash snapped as Twilight simply repeated her request as if the pegasus hadn’t just shouted in her ears.

“Please… Kill me…” The alicorn requested again as Rainbow shook her head frantically while backing away.

“No, no, this is wrong!” She shouted before blasting the door open and flying out, shoving a nurse and a doctor to the floor in the process. She ignored the ponies telling her to stop as well as the nurses running toward Twilight’s room in panic as they likely noticed her unusual heart rate.

Every instinct within Rainbow Dash urged her to return and stand by Twilight's side, ensuring her safety. But how could she? How was it even possible to do that when Twilight had just asked her to... to end her life?! How could she make such a request of her own wife, of all ponies?! If she stayed, Twilight might beg her again, and she wasn't certain she could bear to listen to her desperate pleas. She couldn't bring herself to hear the one she loved so deeply pleading for her own death!

How did things get to this point? Everything was perfect a month ago! And now everything was falling apart. She wasn’t stupid, unlike what most ponies seemed to think. She was aware that everyone was losing hope. Even the princesses! And she was supposed to stand back and watch them look through some stupid books or do useless experiments that would go nowhere while they were slowly giving up?!

Even Pinkie stopped throwing parties! Even Twilight herself wanted to give up. At this point, did anyone else even believe in her recovery? What was she supposed to do? Couldn’t she have an answer to that at least? Well… She did know she wouldn’t respect Twilight’s wish.

She hid her face behind her hooves as tears streamed down her face after finally landing on a lone cloud above the hospital. Was… Was Twilight still talking? Was she talking to the doctors? Begging them to put her out of her misery? Would they listen to her? Was that even a thing in Equestria?

Maybe the others were right… Maybe she should rest, and pretend, like the others, that she wasn’t miserable.

Tears streamed down Rainbow Dash's face as she clutched a small blanket tightly to her chest. She made no effort to wipe her tears or pretend to be alright when Twilight opened the door to their room. In the past, she had often hidden her emotions to avoid mockery from others—it had become a habit. But that had changed significantly since she had started dating Twilight.

“Can I come in?” Twilight carefully asked, to which Rainbow replied by sniffling. Since the pegasus didn’t tell or shout at her to leave, she came in and joined her on the edge of the bed. “Stupid question, but are you doing okay?” She asked as she put a hoof on her shoulder.

“No… Why did-did it have to happen to him?” Rainbow stammered. While she wasn’t crying as profusely as before, she could still barely talk without being cut off by hiccups.

“I don’t know. It was just… Bad luck, I suppose,” Twilight grimly stated. “With tortoises that old… There can be complications…”

“But it’s unfair!” Rainbow Dash retorted in anger, although she was more sad than angry. “Turtles are supposed to live for so long! I thought, I thought I’d never lose him!”

“Oh, Rainbow… Here,” Twilight softly spoke before pulling the cyan pegasus into a hug, letting her cry into her chest while the princess’ wings wrapped around her marefriend in a tight embrace.

Tank… Had unexpectedly fallen ill a week prior. He didn’t want to drink or eat and wasn’t feeling well at all. Rainbow wanted to bring him to a veterinary or to Fluttershy the day after; unfortunately, she woke up the next morning beside his dead body. The pegasus was understandably heartbroken and didn’t even want to know how it happened. She spent most of her day crying. Today had been Tank’s funeral.

“It was too soon, Twi! He-He didn’t even know I loved him!” Rainbow sniffled into Twilight’s chest.

“You petted him, nourished them, told him how much you cared about him every single day. Of course, he knew you loved him, Rainbow,” The alicorn responded reassuringly while caressing Rainbow’s back.

“But what if he didn’t? I could have done more! He deserved to die of old age! Not… Not like that!” Rainbow retorted.

“He knew you cared Rainbow, and I’m sure Fluttershy could tell you the same,” Twilight whispered while the pegasus’ cries quieted. “Come on, let it all out,”

“Can you stay a bit longer, Twi?” Rainbow asked.

The alicorn had duties as a princess and headmaster of the school of friendship, after all. However, she would never put those duties over her friends’ feelings, especially her marefriend’s.

“Of course, I’ll stay with you as long as you need me to,” Twilight replied, holding the pegasus tighter.

“You better not leave me,” Rainbow muttered through her tears.

“I promise I won’t,”

Rainbow Dash wiped her tears away as the memory faded away. How could she ever forget that day? She rarely lost loved ones, and Tank certainly wasn’t just any loved one. She wasn’t even sure she moved on yet, and now she would have to mourn her lover, too?!

The Wonderbolt furrowed her brows in anger. No. Twilight promised she wouldn’t leave her, and it was only natural for Rainbow Dash to fight as much as she could to save the one she loved. The others’ efforts weren’t enough. They didn’t try hard enough!

So she would do it herself. She would fly all around Equestria and look for a cure. Question anyone she met until someone would give her the answer she wanted to hear.

Searching For Love

Rainbow Dash left Twilight’s side. Yes, you could call her a bad wife if you wanted to. After all, the love of her wife was in the hospital, dying, and she wouldn’t even stay with her?! It was the same thing Rainbow Dash blamed their friends for!

However, she believed that this was the only way to save Twilight in the first place! She didn’t care if the princesses said there was no cure or even if Discord couldn’t save her! If they couldn’t do anything, then Rainbow Dash would!

After the somewhat heated discussion she had with Applejack, the pegasus had decided she wouldn’t cry around anymore, and she would actually do something. She wasn’t the type of mare to give up in the face of adversity. What was her idea, you wondered? She left Ponyville to travel all over Equestria in the hopes of finding a cure or someone who could help.

Yeah, it probably wasn’t the brightest plan. Her friends would tell her that blindly seeking a miracle cure was stupid. That was why Rainbow sought that cure alone. She didn’t even tell her friends. They would slow her down, anyway. She meant that literally. The pegasus didn’t bother using trains or other modes of transportation. Instead, all she needed was her wings. Flying all over Equestria wasn’t easy, but she was determined, and she would take regular naps on random clouds she would find.

The guilt from leaving without her friends still lingered, but she couldn’t forget Applejack’s words from that night… It was evident her friends had given up. They stopped believing in Twilight, and themselves! Rainbow Dash wouldn’t waste her time with motivational speeches when her wife was dying!

Unfortunately, Cloudsdale had been a total bust. She didn’t have much hope in the first place, to be honest, but she couldn’t write it off without trying either.

20 hours earlier

“Alicornia Syndrome?” Sour Feather inquired, raising an eyebrow in confusion. “I am sorry, but I’ve never heard of such a disease, Princess,” The pegasus shook his head as he adjusted his glasses with one of his wings.

“What? Aren’t you supposed to be the best doctor here? Even the guy from Ponyville heard of it, at least!” Rainbow Dash jumped off her chair, knocking it to the floor as she glared at the doctor. The stallion leaned back, intimidated by the mare’s sudden outburst.

They were currently in his office because Rainbow Dash suddenly burst into the hospital, demanding to see the best (most competent would Sout Feather say) doctor in the hospital. If this was anyone else, she may have been escorted out, but since she was a hero and a princess, they simply followed her orders. However, she wouldn’t be indulgent just because they listened to her. How could she remain calm when this was the best they had to offer?!

“I-I am sorry, Princess! But if what you’re saying is right, then this disease hasn’t been reported in Equestria in the last 1000 years or more! I don’t think anyone in this hospital has heard of it!” Sour Feather raised his forelegs defensively.

“Grrr, you… You’re useless!” Rainbow suddenly kicked the desk into the wall, slamming it to pieces while the doctor shielded his face and threw himself to the floor.

The cyan pegasus didn’t bother looking back before flying out of the window, immediately dashing toward her next destination. If Cloudsdale wasn’t going to be any help, then she needed to go for big cities such as Las Pegasus!

As she flew across Cloudsdale, Rainbow couldn’t help noticing the city was as bright and lively as ever. Pegasi walked the street clouds without a care in the world, grinning ear to ear as if nothing happened. Didn’t they know one of their princesses was dying?! Why… Why was she the only one doing anything? Even if they believed her fate sealed, they should have been mourning her like her friends were doing, at the very least!

The pegasus mare suddenly froze when her eyes landed on another structure. It was a building taller than most facilities in Cloudsdale, shaped in a circle. If they couldn’t even cry for Twilight… Then they didn’t even deserve to have that in their city… Rainbow glared, clenching her teeth.

“Whoa! It’s even bigger than I thought!” Rainbow Dash commented, her gaze traveling all over the room.

It was a grand room with enough space to welcome more than a hundred ponies easily. There were multiple seats lined up like in a theater, except the seats faced the ceiling instead. Speaking of the ceiling, it was quite unusual. It was made of what looked like glass, showing Luna’s beautiful night sky.

“The biggest observatory in Equestria… Would you believe me if I told you this has always been one of my childhood dreams?” Twilight asked, looking up at the sky with a small smile across her lips.

“Nah, I bet you’re the kind of filly who always wished to be a princess,” Rainbow Dash responded snarkily, only for Twilight to punch her playfully on the shoulder. “I’m proud of ya, Egghead. The grand opening’s tomorrow, right?”

“It is,” Twilight confirmed. “Since Luna will be hosting most sessions, it won’t be open every night. For now, though, I wanted you to be the first pony to see what it’s capable of,” The lavender alicorn grinned, and lit her horn. “To sum up how it works, it uses potent magic to…” Twilight began explaining, only for her marefriend to cut her off with a raised hoof.

“I’ll stop you right there, Twi. I know I won’t understand a thing you’re saying, and even though I love hearing you talk… Why don’t you just show me this time?” Rainbow suggested, to which the alicorn simply smiled.

Her pegasus marefriend would never change, would she? After a small chuckle and a shake of her head, Twilight lit her horn. As if the sky was hers to command, it began to shift. No, it wasn’t the sky… The glass pulsed with Twilight’s light, showing a whole new image as if the observatory had been shot into space. It traveled across the stars, revealing sights that Rainbow had never thought she would witness before.

It was a fusion of colors and lights, merging to form spectacular celestial wonders. She watched comets streaking through the vast emptiness of space, stars collapsing into themselves, and brilliant nebulas radiating with vibrant hues. It was a breathtaking scenery that could sway even the coldest of hearts.

Rainbow Dash didn’t know how long she stared at it, or how long it lasted. She could never understand how Twilight and Luna created this, but it allowed them to glimpse into the unreachable depths of space, and… She had no idea what that entailed, but it was pretty to look at!

“What did you think?” Twilight suddenly stopped her magic as the glass pulsed again to show the sky as it originally was.

“Twi… This was awesome! I… I don’t even know how to describe it! How did you even do that?!” The pegasus fidgeted, holding herself back from jumping around.

“I would have to go on an intricate explanation,” Twilight snickered until she grew quieter… More hesitant. “Listen, Rainbow… There’s still something missing before this observatory is complete,”

“Okay… What is it?” Her marefriend inquired curiously.

“It hasn’t been officially named yet, and… Well, I want to give it your name,” Twilight revealed, making Rainbow’s eyes go wide like saucers.

“What?! But that’s your thing, Twilight! It’s your project! It’s your dream!” Rainbow argued in disbelief.

“Yes, and that’s why I want to name it after you,” Twilight responded softly, placing a hoof on the pegasus’ cheek. “I never thought I would feel so much when we started dating. I thought my emotions would be similar to when we were just friends, but… They have grown so much beyond that. Just thinking of you makes me happy to get up in the morning, and I feel as though you complete me. I love you. I want this project, this dream, to be my gift to you,” The alicorn gently explained while staring into her marefriend’s eyes.

“Twi…” Rainbow uttered with watery eyes. What could she possibly reply to that? Those feelings were powerful and never-ending, and Twilight had just proved how true it rang for her. The pegasus embraced her with her mighty wings, holding her tightly. Now, Rainbow Dash just had to repay Twilight in kind to show she felt the same way.

Rainbow shook her head, trying to forget about the moment she just experienced again. No, she wouldn’t let all of this end! She refused to! Even if the whole world gave up on her, she wouldn’t. She couldn’t. Without further due, the pegasus continued her voyage to Las Pegasus.

Las Pegasus, 18 hours before present time

This time, Rainbow Dash found herself meeting with another doctor. She was a unicorn named Crackle, and the oldest doctor the hospital had. The pegasus princess hadn’t noticed any difference from the hospital in Cloudsdale, so she wondered if she would get any different results when she came in, though she still hoped she would.

“Hmm… Yes, yes, I’ve heard of this disease. Wasn’t it supposed to be extinct?” Crackle hummed while looking over the files Rainbow Dash had given her. They were about Twilight’s diagnosis as well as all the results from the tests the doctors did on her in Ponyville.

“Well, it’s not. Can you do anything or not?” The cyan pegasus asked in exasperation.

“Have you tried amputating her horn, perhaps?” Crackle suggested, making Rainbow roll her eyes.

“They already said that wouldn’t work,”

“Oh, well she is an alicorn, so it’s not like the source of her magic solely stems from her horn. They should try amputating the wings too. Maybe it could work,” The old mare nodded in approval at her own words.

“Grrr… I don’t want maybes or perhaps! I want a real solution that is sure to work! And I’m not gonna cut off my wife’s limbs if you aren’t even sure it’ll work!” Rainbow hit the doctor’s desk to accentuate her words.

“Well, what do you expect me to do when I don’t even have the patient to look at?!” Crackle retorted, crossing her forelegs. “This is medicine, not magic! We don’t have miracle solutions at our disposal whenever we want to!”

“Obviously, you can’t help me, old bag! Don’t even know why I bothered coming here!” Rainbow Dash jumped off the chair, ready to take off again.

“How ungrateful. Back in my day, we didn’t hijack so many resources for one pony. We would have pulled the plug days ago already!” Crackle grumbled, shaking her head.

The pegasus paused, sternly narrowing her eyes as she stopped herself from taking off and spun her head to face the old mare again.

Outside of Crackle’s office…

A pegasus attempted to open the door, only to be stopped by the voice of a colleague just as his hoof was about to touch the doorknob.

“Wait, Doctor Crackle’s busy with someone,” The nurse stated. “She hates it when we bother her while she’s busy. Trust me, you don’t want to deal with this,” She warned the stallion.

Before he could ask what Crackle’s issue was, something suddenly crashed through the wall to embed itself into the hallway, groaning in pain. The nurse and the pegasus widened their eyes, coughing because of the dust cloud invading their lungs as they tried to discern what burst out of Crackle’s office.

Looking closer, they noted that… It was none other than the old unicorn herself!

“Ugh…” Crackle moaned painfully before falling to the floor. While the nurse rushed to her side, the pegasus looked back into the doctor’s office to see what could have happened. However, the room was empty with the window wide open, and the wind gently blowing the curtains apart.

Rainbow Dash left Las Pegasus, heading for her next destination. After that disaster, there was no way she would only focus on big cities. If she truly wanted to help Twilight, then she would need to travel across ALL of Equestria!

Besides, why did she even trust Las Pegasus to be her saving grace in the first place? That city may have looked awesome on the outside, but it was rotten to the core, wasn’t it?

“Oh, I couldn’t have asked for a better vacation! This week has been simply divine!” Rarity grinned widely before sipping on her cocktail.

The girls were all in a restaurant in Las Pegasus, more specifically outdoors to enjoy the night’s gentle breeze. Since Rarity had been overworked lately, and because she always gave her all during her job, her friends decided to take her on a vacation to the most popular place in Equestria among tourists: Last Pegasus. Of course, this trip was their treat, so they would pay for most things and allow Rarity to enjoy a vacation without any worries or trouble.

“A shame it’s almost over, but Ah guess all the lights make me miss mah farm,” Applejack remarked while looking around.

“I know what you mean… Everything is so bright and noisy here,” Fluttershy added. It was a miracle they could even hear her. “I think a week is more than enough time spent in this city,”

Pinkie Pie also had quite an opinion on this place. The nights here felt like never-ending parties, and needless to say, the pink mare saw that as competition. Nevertheless, they all had fun during this week. Especially Twilight and Rainbow Dash. The pegasus enjoyed finding ways to be alone with her marefriend and discover some of the places here on their own. No, no, it wasn’t just an excuse to find room to smooch, not at all!

“Uhm, excuse me, sorry to bother you, ladies,” Someone suddenly cut in their conversation. It was a stallion, a pegasus. He didn’t look well, what with the wild mane he sported and the coat covered in dirt and wore a cast. It was as if he had fallen in a ditch.

“Oh, you’re not bothering us at all, do you need something?” Twilight asked, turning around to face him since he came from behind. She slightly widened her eyes at his appearance.

“Oh, my! Are you alright, sir?” Rarity inquired with a hoof over her mouth.

“N-Not really. I won’t be long, I just wanted to know if you have one or two bits you’re willing to spare,” The stallion shook his head before extending his hoof in a pleading manner.

“We do, but… Are you sure you don’t need anything else?” Fluttershy questioned.

“Oh, I need a lot of things. Basically everything actually. You wouldn’t believe the month I had. Lost everything to the casino, including my house. And I’ve got debts with the hospital too because I broke my hip last week!” He looked down defeatedly.

Rainbow Dash felt bad for the guy, but… Well, she couldn’t do anything for him. He didn’t look like a pegasus from Las Pegasus, so she guessed he may have hoped to come here to win big. He played the game and lost, though, she didn’t know you could lose your house too… The ponies in this city were ruthless…

“Do you have any time to spare, sir?” Her marefriend suddenly stood up. The stallion widened his eyes once he finally realized she was a princess.

“P-Princess!” The pegasus gasped, quickly bowing. “Yes, I do!”

“No need to bow,” Twilight swiftly shook her hoof awkwardly at the display. “I’ll accompany you to the hospital, okay?”

“S-Sure, but why?”

“Well, to settle your debt, of course!” Twilight proudly declared, much to Rainbow and their friends’ shock.

“Are ya sure, Twilight?” Applejack whispered quietly enough so that the stallion wouldn’t hear.

“You don’t have to do this, Princess!” The male pegasus shook his head in disbelief.

“I don’t, but I want to do it,” Twilight assured confidently.

While the alicorn conversed with the stallion, Rainbow shut down everything else, focusing only on her marefriend. She managed to surprise her every time! Seriously, sometimes, she wondered what she did to deserve her…

Smokey Mountains

“Alicornia Syndrome? What is that?” The old stallion questioned, his frail legs shaking under his weight.

“It’s a disease, it’s… Ugh, does anyone know what Alicornia Syndrome is?!” Rainbow Dash shouted in the middle of the town square. The ponies assembled around her whispered to themselves. From what she could hear, most of them were asking each other what that disease supposedly was. The cyan pegasus groaned, slapping her face with her hoof. She thought a town on top of mountains would be mysterious, and have some kind of miracle magic! This was a total bust!

“We have Alicornia Pie if you want! It’s a specialty here!” One pony brought up, only for Rainbow Dash to take off as quickly as she came, leaving a rainbow trail behind her. “Oh, well. Guess she doesn’t want to try it,” He shrugged.

Vanhoover

“I’m sorry, Princess, but… If Princess Celestia or Princess Luna don’t have any cures, then we sure don’t either,” A doctor shook her head.

“Aren’t you supposed to be a doctor?!” Rainbow Dash growled, stomping the floor.

“Yes, of course! But that doesn’t mean we can perform miracles on a whim! I really am sorry, Princess… I understand what you’re going through…” She raised a hoof to comfort the cyan pegasus, only for Rainbow to slap it away.

“As if! Don’t give me that crap!” She fumed, promptly turning around. “I’ve got enough pity already, I don’t need more!” Rainbow added as she opened the doctor’s window.

“W-Wait! You can’t…” She tried to stop her. Unfortunately, Rainbow didn’t seem to care. She took off with a strong burst of wind, knocking the doctor’s paperwork away. “Ugh… Darn it,” She muttered while looking at the mess.

No matter where she went, Rainbow Dash would receive the same responses. No matter how much she yelled, begged, or cried. It was always the same.

“My apologies, but I have never heard of such a disease,”

“Miracle cure? Oh, I wish we had something like that, Princess! Hahaha! But if we did, then there wouldn’t even be hospitals in the first place,”

“Unfortunately, it’s incurable. We can’t do anything… D-Does Princess Cadance know you’re here?”

“I have no doubt this must be painful, but there are times when we must face reality… I am sorry, Princess Rainbow Dash, but… You must let go,”

“I do have magical artifacts here, but not what you’re looking for. Besides, if I had something as powerful as a miracle cure for everything, I would keep it for myself,”

Back to the present…

Why couldn’t a single one of them give her the answer she was looking for?! Why were they taking her request so lightly?! It wasn’t fair… It wasn’t fair. They should be heartbroken! They should be crying as they told her they didn’t have a way to save Twilight!

Those questions swarmed Rainbow Dash’s mind as she let out her fury by screaming to the heavens, and shattering the trees of the Everfree Forest. She had traveled over half of Equestria, at least, and didn’t find anything! She even flew all over a chain of mountains because an idiot told her there was a myth about a fountain capable of healing anything! Obviously, she didn’t find anything…

She felt ashamed for coming back to Ponyville empty-hoofed, but she needed to check on Twilight. And… Use something as an outlet for her anger and frustration.

She just didn’t get it! She, Twilight, and their friends saved Equestria countless times! And now that the ponies of Equestria had a chance to repay that favor by helping their saviors, they didn’t?!

No, she didn’t want to hear about any of their excuses! They should be going above and beyond to find solutions to help Twilight! After everything she had done for them! They were so ungrateful!

“Grraa!” Rainbow growled, flying right through a tree and bursting it in half. “Damn it! Damn it!” She punched a boulder, only to quickly retract her hoof in pain. “Ah!” She yelped, though nothing was broken, thankfully. Small tears rolled down her cheek. It wasn’t from the pain caused by that blow, of course. But she was tempted it was… Just so she wouldn’t have to break down now of all times. If she gave in to despair… Then she wouldn’t be giving up on Twilight like the others.

“Rainbow Dash?” Someone suddenly broke the pegasus out of her thoughts. Rainbow looked up from where she sat, noting it was Zecora. Quickly, she wiped her tears away, unwilling to let the zebra see her so weakened.

“Zecora? What are you doing here?” Rainbow inquired, though, truthfully, she wasn’t interested. Nothing else mattered than what she set out to do.

“This morning I looked for you, but you weren’t in sight, to Ponyville I was returning, hoping you’d alight,” Zecora replied while Rainbow kicked a rock away in a bored manner.

“Well, unless it’s a cure-all for Twilight, I’ve got other stuff to do,” The pegasus warned, already standing up to fly away. She wasted enough time raging out here.

“A cure for Twilight may be near. Please stay, Rainbow, and lend an ear,” Zecora said just as Rainbow Dash was ready to take off, making the mare freeze.

“What did you just say? Please tell me you actually have some magical miracle cure somewhere in your hut!” Rainbow Dash pounced on Zecora, holding her by the shoulders. “And this better not be a prank, or else!” She immediately threatened, changing from hopeful to vindictive.

“I said a cure is near, but not my own. So calm your temper, let my words be known,” Zecora raised a hoof in Rainbow Dash’s face. “First, my friend, a lesson is due. For history holds the answers you pursue,”

“Huh? I don’t have time for history lessons!” Rainbow groaned, facehoofing. “Look, do you have a cure or not?” She questioned, tapping the ground impatiently. However, Zecora simply went on with her story instead.

“Our potions and rituals, as you may see. Come from a culture of past centuries. A culture whose roots with Zebras don't align,” Zecora began explaining as Rainbow finally started listening to what she was saying. “Long ago, the Kirin and Zebra did share. Traditions and secrets, a bond so rare. In darker sources, their shamans would seek. Though I have no cure, one may hold the key,”

Rainbow remained silent as if pondering the zebra’s words. Zecora wondered if the pegasus wasn’t…

“Zecora, can you please, please, talk normally for once? I didn’t get a thing!” Rainbow Dash complained.

Zecora deadpanned. Yep, there it was…

“Very well,” She sighed, rubbing her forehead. “Kirin shamans hold many secrets. One may hold the key to Twilight’s salvation…” Zecora said before closing her mouth and keeping her lips tight as if she physically struggled to keep her mouth shut.

“Alright, I just gotta see some Kirins? That’s easy! Thanks Zecora!” Rainbow Dash quickly took off in a rainbow streak.

“But don’t leave behind any regrets,” The zebra breathed out, relieved to complete her rhyme.

Truthfully, Zecora didn’t know if even a shaman could help Twilight. Sure, they were known to have the knowledge of many rituals and potions, most of which were kept tightly secret. It was possible they had something for Twilight’s condition. However, that possibility only amounted to a 2 or 3% likelihood. She wasn’t sure they had anything that could help or that they would be willing. Nevertheless, she supposed this was still better than anything Rainbow had until now.

“Okay… That Kirin village should be around here, right?” Rainbow asked herself while spinning the map she held around.

She knew that Applejack had gone there once for a friendship problem, giving her a basis for where to look. The pegasus hoped they would have a… What did Zecora call them? Right, a shaman! She hoped they had one, otherwise, she’d potentially have to leave for a whole other continent!

Of course, she also hoped Zecora was right about this. Rainbow didn’t know how long Twilight had, but this was possibly her last resort. Of course, she still wouldn’t give up even if the shaman route didn’t bear fruit. She could try asking the changelings or maybe the dragons. They didn’t have the same medical equipment Equestria had, but they must have had some way to treat their sick and injured, at least!

Nevertheless, for now, she would rely on Zecora’s word and the Kirin. The pegasus folded the map in annoyance before flying higher in the sky. She spun her head around, searching for any trace of houses or any building at all.

“Ah! There!” Rainbow Dash exclaimed when her eyes landed on various wooden structures. Those were clearly houses! It looked far away, and if she had been on hooves, then it would have taken her an hour or two to get there… Fortunately, she was the fastest pegasus in Equestria! She flew over the forest, hurrying to the village.

Rainbow Dash swooped down, her wings cutting effortlessly through the air as she zoomed toward the village. The sounds of the forest died out as she landed, replaced by the soft hum of Kirin voices. Beautifully nestled among a copse of tall trees and vibrant flowers, the village of wooden houses was built into the landscape harmoniously. She wasted no time, impatience bubbling over.

"I need to speak to your shaman guy or girl!" She called, firm and impatient. A few Kirin lifted their heads-their golden eyes following her movement. An older Kirin with a flow of silver and green came toward her.

"Ah, a visitor from afar," The older Kirin said with a slight, inclined head, "It’s not often we get ponies in our village. However, it is better if you talk with our leader if you are looking for a shaman. She is in the middle of the village. Come with me,” He instructed before walking away.

“Look, I need help. My wife needs help!” Rainbow Dash quickly ran after him. “Do you guys have a shaman or not?” She questioned hurriedly.

The old Kirin sighed but didn’t stop walking.

“You won’t be satisfied with my answer… But no, we do not have shamans here in the village. It has been years since we haven’t… However, there is a shaman who regularly comes to the village to sell goods. That is why you must see our leader. She’s the only one who knows where to find them,” He explained. Rainbow furrowed her brows. No, she didn’t like that answer, but it wasn’t as bad as she thought it would be.

“Fine… Lead the way, I guess,” Rainbow mumbled. Arguing would be useless. She needed to keep what Twilight said about unreasonable ponies in mind.

As they reached the middle of the village, a large clearing broke open. The focal point was a tall construction of wood and stone. Elaborate engravings bearing Kirin history and tales adorned the walls. The older of the Kirin stopped at the base of the building and turned to Rainbow Dash.

"Here we are," He gestured to the house. "The chief's home. She will speak with you,"

Rainbow Dash hesitated a moment, then nodded.

"Thanks." She darted up the steps and knocked firmly on the door, her heart pounding. Twilight needed help, and she wasn't going to leave until she got it.

“Yes, come in,” A feminine voice allowed entry from inside. Immediately, Rainbow opened the door and flew in to meet the supposed leader of the village. The pegasus immediately arched an eyebrow when she noted that this particular kirin was as tall as Princess Celestia! “Hmm, I didn’t expect to be visited by a pony today,”

“You’re the leader, right?” Rainbow inquired, wanting to make sure she didn’t get the wrong Kirin.

“I am. My name is Rain Shine,” Rain nodded in confirmation.

"Look, I need your help," Rainbow Dash said urgently, her voice cutting through the silence. "My wife is in danger, and I was told you might know where I can find a shaman who can help her," She decided to cut to the chase and didn’t even bother introducing herself.

"A shaman, you say? It is not often that outsiders come seeking one of our kind. What makes you think a shaman could help your friend?" Rain asked in surprise.

“Because nothing in Equestria can help her, so I’m expanding my choices. I’m willing to try anything, so please, just tell me where that guy is already!” Rainbow demanded. She didn’t have time for niceties, and she had enough of asking around. She wanted results this time! It was the closest anyone ever got to telling her she had a chance of saving Twilight!

Rain studied Rainbow’s face for a moment, taking in how determined the pony was. Finally, she nodded.

“Alright, I will tell you. There is a shaman that comes and goes from time to time. It would be once or twice a month, and since she came here a few days ago, you would have to wait for a couple of weeks before she comes back. However, if your predicament is as urgent as I imagine, then you may want to leave for the mountains to the north. I’ve never seen her hut, but from what she told me, she lives at the base of the mountains, deeper in the forest,” Rain explained, to which Rainbow nodded excitedly. Finally, she had some hope! “However, I do not want to give you false hopes. I don’t know what her views on outsiders are, and I do not the extent of her knowledge. While her profession is a part of our culture, it’s a practice that has been fading,” She warned the pegasus.

“Thanks, but I’ll see for myself,” Rainbow rushed to the exit. “Mountains to the north, huh? I can get there in ten seconds flat!” She declared confidently, leaving a rainbow trail behind her as she zoomed out of the village.

Rainbow Dash was high above the forest, flying at a pace that sent her heart racing for a taste of pure adrenaline. The rush of wind in her mane was comforting and familiar. She had her destination now, and nothing would stop her from getting there. Twilight was counting on her, and Rainbow Dash would never let her down.

As she approached the mountains, the landscape changed. The trees thickened out, their branches growing in weird and wonderful ways. Rainbow Dash didn't care. She was on target. She knew she was getting close. She could feel it.

Finally, she saw it: a small, secluded hut nestled at the foot of the mountain, veiled by thick fog. Rainbow Dash's wings flared as she slowed down, touching down gently in front of the hut. The air around her felt heavier, and she couldn't shake the sense that something was off. But she couldn't turn back now.

She took a great breath and approached the door, rapping while her heart was racing. Whatever was on the other side, she was ready to face it. She had to be.

After a moment, the door creaked open, revealing a cloaked figure. The mysterious shaman stood tall. Rainbow Dash could only perceive her mouth, and not much else. She knew some ponies liked having a vibe, but did she need to be all mysterious even in her own house?

“I haven’t had a visitor in years, much less a pony…” The shaman remarked, then stepped aside. “Come in. If you’re here, then it must be because fate brought you,”

“Thanks,” Rainbow came in. She tried to stay polite, and not jump at the kirin to ask for a cure. While she was in a hurry, she also didn’t want to waste a chance at helping Twilight.

The moment Rainbow Dash stepped inside, she was hit by the scent of herbs and old wood. The room was dimly lit, with shelves lined by strange vials, bundles of dried plants, and books that looked ancient. It felt… ancient... mysterious. Almost too mysterious for Rainbow Dash's taste, but she quickly pushed that aside. Twilight needed help, and she wasn't going to let any of the shaman's cryptic vibes throw her off track.

“Now… What do you seek, Loyal One?” The kirin shaman asked, walking up to a table, where a book was open.

“"Okay, so, I’m Rainbow Dash," Rainbow started, trying to keep her tone steady. "And I heard you might be able to help me. My wife is in big trouble. She… She’s dying, alright? The princesses can’t help, and neither can Discord! The literal Lord of Chaos! So, no pressure… Can you help? Do you have anything that can save her? Please…” The pegasus slowly approached the kirin with a pleading tone.

“Hmmm, this depends on the affliction she suffers from,” She retorted.

“It’s Alicornia Syndrome,” Rainbow Dash revealed, furrowing her brows. She braced herself, waiting for the shaman to either tell her she had no idea what it was or that it was impossible to cure. However, the shaman hummed instead.

“I never thought I would face such disease in my lifetime… It is no wonder your rulers cannot help,” The kirin shaman nodded. “It is the very antithesis of their being. The Alicornia Syndrome is the anti-magic, eating away the beings that possess. And what has more magic than alicorns? It is no wonder that using magic to fight is worthless, whether that magic comes from order or chaos. Ultimately, it is only food for the disease,” She explained, closing her book and turning to Rainbow Dash.

“So what? You’re saying nothing can save her?!” The pegasus groaned, ready to fly out of here and go to the Changelings instead.

“I said magic cannot save her. Fortunately, what I use isn’t magic as much as it is sorcery… I think I know of a way to save her from her fate,” The shaman retorted.

“R-Really? You do?” Rainbow Dash asked with trembling lips. The kirin nodded. This… This was the answer she had been looking for… This was what she wanted to hear all this time!

“Indeed. However, I must warn you that the price isn’t cheap,” The cloaked kirin warned, making Rainbow snicker.

“Twilight and I are princesses! Don’t worry about the price, okay? We’ll have all the bits you want!” She assured. As if she was going to let money stop her! What a joke!

“You misunderstand me. The price I talk about is not paid in gold,” The shaman revealed, making Rainbow Dash pause. The cyan pegasus furrowed her brows, growing serious again. “However, I can see that you are determined. Whatever the price is, you are willing to pay it… Yes?”

Rainbow didn’t speak for a couple of seconds. No, she wasn’t looking for her words, or thinking over the shaman’s offer. Of course, not. She was simply baffled that the kirin thought even for a second that Rainbow would back down!

“Of course, I am. Whatever the price is. I’m paying it,” She affirmed determinedly.

Author's Note

Yo! I'm back to the story, guys! Sorry for the very, very, long wait. But I really wanted to focus on and finish my Multiversal Voyage story first. If any of you are interested, go check it out! As for this one, well, the end is near too. Don't worry, you won't have to wait two years for an update this time.