-“Hi everyone! Sorry I'm late!” - said Rainbow Dash, taking a seat next to Soarin.

• “What the...!”- exclaimed Moonflower, rising abruptly from the table, her eyes wide as saucers as she looked at the newcomer. Shining Marigold acted quickly, holding Moonflower just a beat before she finished her sentence. She had not anticipated that Blooming Rose, who magically changed her appearance to assume the role of Rainbow Dash, would arrive so soon. Therefore, she had given the real Dash some leeway, so that she could eat breakfast in peace.

Dash immediately tensed up, disbelief and indignation flashing through her insides. The genuine surprise and confusion on Moonflower's face did not go unnoticed. The murmuring ceased, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and suspicion. Everyone present passed their quizzical eyes between Dash and Moonflower.

-“Moonflower, is everything all right?” - asked Aster, his voice full of concern and curiosity.

Moonflower resumed her speech, regaining her poise thanks to Shining Marigold's control. - “Yes, everything's fine. I was going to say, it's an honor to have you all together this morning."- She nodded slowly and gave a quiet smile to those present, hiding her inner turmoil. -“In a few minutes we will talk about what we are gathered here for, which is the itinerary and details of the expected tour.”- Having said that, she took her seat again.

As conversations slowly resumed, with a hint of uncertainty about the unusual moment in the dining room, some Wonderbolts continued to look quizzically at Moonflower and Dash

• “That was strange, wasn't it?” - muttered High Winds to Surprise, keeping her tone low so as not to attract too much attention. - “I hadn't noticed the great physical similarity between Dash and Moonflower.” - Surprise nodded with a thoughtful expression as she watched the two pegasus.

• “You're right, it is quite strange. Maybe it's just a coincidence” - suggested Misty Fly, a bit more skeptical. - “After all, what else could it be?”

• “What does this mean?” - Dash's voice echoed with great anger through the mind linking spell. - “Are you mocking me?”

• “Please believe us, we mean you no disrespect.” - Blooming Rose, who was starring as 'Rainbow Dash' in front of the others, hastened to add.

• “How dare you ask me for credibility, just how dare you?”- Dash's anger was palpable. - “You're faking my identity without my permission, much less my knowledge, and look that you had time to orchestrate it, how dare you even warn me!”

• “We knew you were going to get like this, but understand, it was a last minute thing, besides it's the most logical option” - explained Shining calmly, trying to defuse the situation. - “Or did you prefer that your companions again start looking for you all over the castle and get frustrated when they can't find you, not knowing that the real Dash is Moonflower?" - Shining emphasized in her rhetorical question. - “It's the only way no one would suspect and the only way you can both be in the same space.”

Shining seemed to be looking for a practical and unobtrusive solution to the dilemma, trying to convince Dash that this was the best alternative available at the moment.

Blooming added in a pleading voice - “Also, stay calm, I promise to respect your identity and not to tarnish your reputation in any way. I will act as discreetly as possible, just as you would."

-” ‘Just as you would’ ” - sarcastically and mockingly Dash imitated Blooming's voice. - “You have no idea what I'm truly like, and you're already going to imitate me to those who do know me” - Dash let out a bitter laugh. - “this is disgusting, now I understand why you deserve everything that happens to you.”

The words crossed the line, striking the sisters viciously. No doubt they had not expected such a hurtful verbal attack from the normally loyal and noble Dash. Silence reigned in the uncomfortable uneasiness of their linked minds.

Despite not wanting to bring up painful family memories, Dash was forced to do so as a last resort to make herself heard. They hadn't considered her at all and her blatant identity theft was what broke her patience and unleashed her fury again.

"Moonflower, is everything all right? You seemed very... upset when Rainbow Dash arrived." - Aster asked her cautiously, who was watching Moonflower with renewed curiosity.

Moonflower, swallowed the morsel she had been chewing slowly, taking a moment to regain her composure. She looked up at the prince with a faint smile - “Excuse me, Aster. I was just surprised to see the mare who owned the Sonic Rainplosion yesterday."

Aster laughed softly as he remembered the impressive show he had witnessed the night before- “I understand. It was an impressive sight, no doubt."

She reciprocated the gesture with mild sentiment and continued to enjoy her meal like the others. However, Aster's curiosity was still not entirely satisfied.

• “By the way, where were you during the whole show?” - He asked with a hint of genuine interest. - “The last thing I remember is watching you and Blooming go backstage before the show.” - With her brother's comment, Shinning decided to let Dash answer on her own, giving her a warning glance out of the corner of her eye

• “I... had a last minute mishap that kept me from being in the gazebos with the others” - she answered cautiously, choosing each word with utmost care, as if she were walking over a minefield. - “Nevertheless, I was present the entire time it took for the show to end.” - and for her peace of mind Aster seemed to be satisfied with that poor response.

-"I see that you took the time to follow my advice to get ready, Dash" - Fleetfoot indicated in a mocking tone when he saw his renewed friend - "In fact, now that I detail it to you, you over-groomed"

Blooming Rose, felt a knot in her stomach. She wasn't sure how Rainbow usually responded in these situations, so she decided to play along with what she had heard earlier.

• “Well, as you mentioned, a girl should look fabulous at all times, right?”- she replied with a falsely natural façade, sketching a smile that she hoped was convincing enough. and continued to enjoy her breakfast.

All the Wonderbolts who caught the response abruptly stopped their conversations and turned their necks toward the multicolored pegasus, some even crunching their vertebrae at the suddenness of the movement. Stunned and bewildered gazes were riveted on Blooming Rose, who suddenly felt infinitely small under such intense scrutiny.

• “What?” - she said suddenly, trying to maintain her composure under the scrutiny of the stunned gaze of her peers present, though inside she was trembling like a leaf in the wind, feeling the weight of confusion.

• “I never said that at all” - Fleetfoot observed quizzically, along with the others who did not catch the characteristic sarcasm Dash usually employed in such remarks.

-“I guess there's always a first time for everything” - she replied quickly. She turned back to her plate, trying to end the subject and divert attention.

The real Rainbow Dash, hidden under the guise of Moonflower, gave Blooming a flat look and rolled her eyes before returning her focus to her breakfast, though inside she was boiling with indignation.

• “That's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard myself say” - Dash mentioned through the mind linking spell, her voice exuding sarcasm. - “It's ironic because, I wouldn't have said that in my sound judgment, Blooming Rose” - she added with a tone of disbelief. She paused, pinning her gaze on Blooming Rose across the table, she felt as if she were in front of a mirror, with regret that she didn't recognize the mare in front of her.

• “But wait, right, you obviously don't know” - she concluded, letting out her frustration at her.

Shining Marigold, who had so far remained silent, felt her patience wearing thin. - “Can you stop now, Dash?” - It wasn't a question, but rather a direct order spoken in a firm tone.

At Shining's firmness, Dash responded with a tone of feigned innocence and smugness. - “So I'm the one who has to stop?” - she replied, defiantly.

Shining, sitting next to Moonflower, gave Dash a warning glance. The tension in the air was palpable as Dash maintained her defensive and sarcastic smile, showing no signs of intimidation. Finally, Shining Marigold decided to take control of the situation and the pony at her side.

Moonflower stood up, capturing the attention of everyone present. - “Very well Wonderbolts, I think it is now a suitable time to have a conversation about what competes us” - she announced in a firm voice.

The murmur in the room gradually faded, leaving an expectant silence charged with curiosity. The eyes of the Wonderbolts were riveted on her, eager to hear her words.

-“All right, members of the Wonderbolts, we are about to embark on an unprecedented grand tour” - Moonflower began her speech with determination. The real Dash listened attentively, while the imposter, embodied by Blooming Rose, watched silently.

• “This is not just a tour, but a succession of challenges that will not only test your skills, but also your determination and team unity.” - Moonflower continued. The Wonderbolts exchanged looks of curiosity at the prospect. - “Each destination we will visit harbors mysteries and challenges unique to yourselves, designed to bring out the most outstanding in each of you.”

After a brief pause for his words to settle in the minds of those present, Moonflower continued. - “Allow me, dear flyers (and dear reading audience) to detail the itinerary for this tour, pay close attention, please” - The anticipation in the room was palpable.

-"As you all know, this will be a tour of competitions involving the flying and skills of each competitor. This tour will travel through regions in and around Equestria. At each location, you will face teams representing that region/city, which will add an element of competition and excitement to this event.“ - announced Moonflower excitedly, noting the mixed reactions among the Wonderbolts. Some of the team members nodded - “but remember, the skills required will vary by location, adapting to the culture and environment of each site. It won't all come down to synchronous flight and daredevil acrobatics."

She continued - “The budget will basically cover all necessary expenses, from accommodation and transportation to feeding the team and producing the events. In addition, we will generate additional revenue through ticket sales, merchandising, advertising and other ancillary agreements. As your official sponsor, I want to assure you that you won't have to worry about any of that, as long as you stay on top of the competition.”

Moonflower assured, conveying confidence to the Wonderbolts, who nodded with determination and showed gratitude for her support. However, she warned firmly - “that said, no team member will be allowed to withdraw without a sufficiently valid extracurricular excuse that leaves them no other choice” - some members exchanged glances at this last statement

• “Now let's get on with the itinerary” - she declared, urging the Wonderbolts to stay focused on the next stage of the plan.

At her gesture, Shining and Aster magically conjured a detailed map of Equestria and its surroundings, projecting it with a mesmerizing glow in the air.

• “The tour will begin in Cloudsdale, the home, probably, of many of you and the cradle of pegasus culture” - she said emphasizing the importance and relevance of this first destination - “The competition in Cloudsdale will be typically acrobatic,representing the essence and the loyal pride of being a pegasus, therefore, the competition will include complex aerial maneuvers, speed races and synchronized flight demonstrations” - she detailed and paused briefly to observe them.

• “So none of this will be new to you” - she added with a tone of recognition. - “You have proven to be the leading and most acclaimed team in that field” - The Wonderbolts looked at each other with a mixture of confidence.

• “The next stop will be the Crystal Empire, where the culture and environment are noticeably different” - She emphasized - “The course will include elements unique to the Empire, such as relays, crystals and ice challenges, similar to the Equestria games, if you ask me. Which will require a combination of speed, agility and teamwork“ - she takes a breath and continues - 'Because just like the crystals that shine there, the true brilliance is in sharing one's inner glow with others.” - she concluded with this destination.

She continued - “After the Crystal Empire, the tour will head to Griffonstone, home of the griffins, known for their rugged and individualistic nature. The competition here will be a challenge of individual speed and skill. This stage will test one's individual courage and ability, a challenge that will reflect the honesty of your soul." - Some shared looks with raised eyebrows at this destination.

• “We continue our journey to the Land of Dragons, a place where the executions will be extremely challenging and risky, inspired by the Fire Challenge, a competition unique to their culture” - Moonflower announced with intensity - “This stage will not only test your skill and bravery, but also your ability to remain calm under pressure, so only the most persistent and cheerful at heart will prevail in the face of danger.”

After a brief respite, Moonflower resumed speaking, her tone becoming more solemn as she spoke of the next place.

-"From the Land of Dragons, the tour continues to Mount Aris, home of the hippogriffs. Here, the competition will be a mix of aquatic and aerial challenges, demanding excellent coordination and synchronicity among the team members. Synchrony and collaboration will combine in a collaboration that will highlight their innate kindness.” - added the sophisticated pegasus.

Moonflower paused for a moment, letting anticipation settle in the air before revealing the final, most significant destination of the tour.

• “And finally, the tour will culminate in the Land of the Unicorns” - announced Moonflower with a tone of reverence - “In this grand finale, a competition will be held involving the magic of the unicorns and the skills of the participating teams, at this stage communication and recursion will stand out, therefore, only those who work in perfect harmony with the magic will win.”

A warm smile came across Moonflower's face as she contemplated the expressions brimming with excitement and determination reflected on the faces of the Wonderbolts.

-"The purpose of this tour is much more than just a competition” - she explained - ”it's about celebrating our diversity and working together toward a common goal. Each leg of this tour is a tribute to the elements of harmony that all of us creatures carry within us, it is an opportunity for each of us to prove our worth, not just as ponies, but as members of a team and as inhabitants of Equestria."

Applause echoed through the room at the end of Moonflower's speech. It was clear that Shinning and Blooming had successfully communicated the importance and purpose of the tour, both in terms of competition and in terms of collaboration and unity.

Although deep within them, the tour would not only benefit those directly involved, but would also serve as a platform for the unicorns to get noticed. It was a subtle call for help so that all the kingdoms would know the situation about the curse and could offer their collaboration to the unicorn kingdom once they have reached the last stage of the tour.

Moonflower paused, scanning the room to make sure everyone was connected with her words. Inside, Dash was truly impressed by the meticulousness of the sisters' planning, recognizing the importance of every detail in organizing this event.

• “Any questions at the moment? I'm here to clear up any questions and make sure we're all on the same page." - Moonflower said, resuming speaking.

From the oval table, Spitfire, the captain of the Wonderbolts, cleared her throat before speaking - “How long exactly is this massive tour going to last?”

• “The detailed schedule will be provided to you soon”- Moonflower replied calmly. - “We will ensure that there is enough time for travel, team rest and incidentals. The tour is planned to last several weeks, with each competition spaced out so that you can adjust and recover between each one."

This time it was Soarin who raised a wing with a hesitant gesture. - “You mentioned that no member could leave the group, right?” - The pale-furred pegasus frowned. - “What if there's an accident in the middle of the tour or someone gets sick?” - Moonflower nodded sympathetically.

• “I understand that unforeseen events can arise on any tour”- she began, turning her gaze to everyone present. - “That's why we will have a dedicated support team to handle any eventuality. Whether it's technical problems, health issues or last minute cancellations, we'll be prepared” she paused to make sure everyone understood the importance of what she was saying.

-"We will work closely with the team to develop robust contingency plans. In addition, all members will be covered by comprehensive insurance throughout the tour, ensuring that any problems are addressed immediately and with the best possible care." - Murmurs of approval rippled through the venue as those present exchanged calmer glances.

• “And what are the prizes or evaluation rubrics on the tests?” - asked Fleetfoot, Moonflower smiled, anticipating this question.

• “Regarding the prize”- she said, projecting her voice clearly, - “we have decided that the fairest and most logical thing to do is to negotiate with each team based on their needs and preferences. The base prize is a commemorative cup, but we also want to offer additional prizes that include special supplies or specific resources that the winning team may need."

Murmurs turned to a wave of approval as members of the Wonderbolts and others present assimilated the information with nods and pleased expressions.

• “In addition, the evaluation rubrics will vary by proficiency, focusing on specific skills and your way of adapting to the characteristics of each region or city.”

Spitfire interjected again with a practical question - “What about training? will we have enough time to adapt to the new competencies and cultures of each location?”

-"Absolutely” - Moonflower replied firmly. -"The detailed schedule, which you will receive soon, includes training and adaptation times in each region. We have coordinated with local experts to ensure that you arrive a few days early at each location before the competition, so you can better understand the environment in which you will be competing.” - Spitfire visibly relaxed in her seat, Soarin and Fleetfoot shared one of their characteristic buoyant smiles.

The murmurs were positive. It was evident that Moonflower's responses were reassuring those present.

-"Well, if there are no further questions...” said Moonflower, sweeping the room with her serene gaze ”...I'll let you know right now that the tour will open next week, plenty of time for you to establish your strategies and training plan as a team. And from our side, we will work on giving visibility to the tour with posters and newspaper ads” - She paused briefly before adding.

• “Also, the methodology of the competition and its obstacles will not be revealed to you until you are on site and ready to begin.” - An expectant silence filled the dining room. The Wonderbolts and others present looked at each other, seemingly satisfied with the answers provided.

Rainbow Dash, even playing Moonflower, felt a pang of admiration for how the sisters were handling the situation. The way they orchestrated Moonflower's leadership abilities and her ability to reassure everyone around her was truly impressive. However, inside her, feelings were clashing. She clearly remembered the words of Shinning, who had told her that in order to be able to control and freely interpret Moonflower she had to be like her. Though it was hard for her to admit it, the idea of sacrificing her own authenticity to take on the role of who she was meant to be challenged her insecurities. However, if that was what it took to stop being a prisoner of the sisters and her own body, she would have to do it.

Author's Note