-I'm getting tired of these unusual silences from you, Rainbow Dash, what's going on?” - Soarin urged her with evident impatience, his voice full of concern at seeing his friend so evasive and distant, bringing her out of her thoughts once again.

Dash rounded on him and quickened her pace, evading her friend's gaze - “I told you I'm really tired, besides I wasn't paying that much attention”. Her tone was defensive and impatient, tired of so much interrogation, and while she knew Soarin only cared about her, how could she explain something she didn't understand herself?

Soarin narrowed his eyes, unconvinced of her excuses - “yeah right, I've seen you more tired than you are now and you weren't acting like that.” - he followed her and confronted her directly, bluntly.

Dash stopped dead in her tracks, and turned around facing Soarin with narrowed eyes. - “Well, now I do!” - Rainbow's curt tone added to the tension. A dense silence hung between them, their gazes locked on each other in a duel of wills, neither willing to give ground.

Soarin slowly nodded his head and frowned, accepting that he wouldn't tell her anything no matter how much he insisted. He knew she was hiding something from him, but there was no way to make her talk if she didn't want to, and that hurt him more than he would admit, to think that maybe she didn't trust him as much as he thought she did. Without another word, he resumed walking towards the main hall where they were expected for the meeting, to which they were already running late.

Rainbow followed him at some distance, a mixture of emotions swirling in her chest. She felt guilt gnawing at her for her cutting words, for pushing him aside when Soarin only cared about her, she was showing him a distrust he didn't deserve. He was probably one of the few ponies she trusted the most and there was no excuse for how she evaded his questions.

Perhaps after the meeting, once alone when the situation had cooled down, she could ask his forgiveness for her attitude. She knew the steed's pride very well, and she also knew that she should be the one to initiate the conversation to clear things up, but now was not the time.

• “You're not very good with word selection are you?” - Blooming reprimanded her gently through the spell, trying not to be reckless, just trying....

The cyan pegasus gritted her teeth, restraining herself from responding to avoid another quarrel between her and the sisters, her pride prevented her from accepting criticism so easily, especially when it came so directly and worse, from one of the ones causing her bad moods

She concentrated on maintaining her impassive appearance as she followed Soarin inside the main hall, dozens of pairs of eyes of the guests at the party rested on them as they crossed the doors, probably for having been protagonists in the spectacle of a few minutes ago.

In the background she could see her other fellow Wonderbolts drinking or eating something, as they were in the company of the 2 royal unicorns. They approached and made their way to the side of their companions.

• “What took you guys so long?” - Fleetfoot asked Rainbow Dash in a low tone. Another time she would have used a more mischievous and insinuating tone, but seeing the long face they arrived with she guessed that wasn't what she was thinking.

• “Let's just say we had an inconvenience on the way” - Soarin answered quickly instead, breaking the awkward silence, Dash just rolled her eyes.

• “I'll explain to you later” - Dash whispered to her Fleetfoot companion, deliberately ignoring Soarin's annoying presence next to her - “have they mentioned anything about why we're wasting our time at this party?”

• “No, I thought we were waiting for you guys” - denied Fleetfoot, shaking her mane - “but apparently they hadn't even noticed you were missing”

• “Be patient Rainbow, at the end of all this it will end up benefiting both sides” - Shinning Marigol told him with confidence, confidence not at all believable, at least for Dash.

The sisters were standing in front of her, elegantly taking some of the exquisite appetizers prepared for the sumptuous feast. But the cyan pegasus knew that they were actually watching her, scrutinizing her every move and gesture with penetrating gaze, attentive to every word that came out of her mouth, ready to seize the slightest opportunity to take control of her in a matter of seconds. She wouldn't admit it openly, but her magic provoked in her a deep, instinctive fear.

She hated feeling this way. Dash slyly approached Spitfire, who was conversing with Thunderlane about something she didn't catch, taking care that the sudden movement didn't alert the suspicious unicorns.

-“Spitfire...” - she called to her in a low tone, her impatience barely concealed.

The aforementioned turned to Rainbow, the gesture of curiosity plastered on her features. - “Yes, Dash?” - Spitfire replied calmly, waiting to see what was troubling her subordinate.

-“Why are we here?” - Rainbow questioned impatiently, “I don't see the slightest initiative on the part of the royal sisters to start the conversation and they're just wasting our time.”

Rainbow hoped that Spitfire would take her hint that it was best to leave the room as soon as possible, Spitfire held her gaze for a few moments, evaluating Rainbow Dash's words. Finally, the captain nodded gravely, acknowledging the validity of her subordinate's arguments. It was clear that the situation was dragging on for no apparent reason.

• “Princess Shinning Marigold...” - the call brought attention, not only from the aforementioned and her sister, but also from her fellow Bolts- “I think we've been giving the matter a lot of thought, tell us please, what did you want to talk to us about?”

The two unicorns watched Dash, then exchanged glances briefly and nodded their heads in a barely perceptible gesture. Shining Marigold and Blooming Rose stepped forward.

• “You are right, it is time to get down to business” - Shining admitted - “We have summoned you here on a matter of the utmost importance to both of you...”

• “After your great performance and after consulting with the leaders of the friendly nations...” - Blooming continued with the same tone of uncertainty as his sister.

-“They sure do like to give the subject a lot of thought” Thunderlane said discreetly to Fire Streak, who only gave a knowing smile at his comment.

Thunderlane just gave him a knowing smile and mentioned in a low voice - “be patient”.

-“We have decided to organize a tour of major proportions aimed at boosting your visibility as a team, while you grow stronger by competing against other smaller teams” -said Shining Marigold in a solemn tone. The Wonderbolts huddled a bit more and looked at each other.

• “You will have the advantage, of course” - continued Blooming Rose - “you will have all our equipment on your side and, in addition, you will have the sponsorship of Moonflower, the organizer of this great event” - hearing that name, Rainbow Dash felt a shiver run down her spine.

Before they could even finish pronouncing Moonflower's name, they were already watching Dash warily. It is worth mentioning that Dash had no reaction time until the sisters again controlled his body movements, waiting for her instinctive reaction upon realizing their plan. Once again, they were taking advantage of her dream to hold her captive, but what did they really want her for?

An awkward silence hung over the Wonderbolts team as they assessed Blooming Rose and Shining Marigold's proposal with a mixture of interest and wariness. Rainbow Dash stood motionless, her wild eyes reflecting her internal struggle to regain control of herself.

• “Wow, a Moonflower-sponsored tour, that sounds amazing” - commented Lighting Strike, excited at the prospect.

Spitfire, however, raised a hoof, requesting a moment - “Allow us a moment, please” - dared Spitfire to request calmly, wishing to evaluate the proposal with her team alone.

With a nod, the royal sisters granted them a breather, the Wonderbolts separated and quickly gathered to discuss their possibilities.

• “So, what are your opinions and perspectives on this?” -asked Spitfire, curious to know her team's perceptions.

Thunderlane was the first to raise his voice, his tone denoting enthusiasm, “Well, undoubtedly, it's a promising opportunity for us.”

High Wings nodded fervently - “Yes, we would have much wider exposure and visibility, as well as their invaluable support and sponsorship” - so far, the feedback had been decidedly positive.

However, the celestial steed kept a more reserved expression - “Certainly, the proposal sounds extremely tempting and irresistible” - Soarin said with a hint of hesitation in his voice - “But doesn't it seem too good to be true?"

Fire Streak nodded in agreement with his companion - “In a way, I share Soarin's apprehensions. Since our arrival, something about this situation hasn't quite inspired confidence, and I wonder if there isn't something more hidden behind all this.”

Fleetfoot interjected with a beaming smile - “I don't think it's some kind of trap against us, they have no reason, and in the event that it supposedly is, we're used to all kinds of challenges.”

• “If that's true, just imagine all that we could accomplish and achieve with your invaluable support and backing!” - of course Surprise would not be far behind with her characteristic optimistic outlook.

Spitfire nodded, encouraged to note that most of the responses were positive, however, she didn't let go of the uneasiness of not having the active participation that had always characterized her best flyer. Her gaze shifted to Rainbow Dash, who had been silent throughout the conversation, immersed in her own thoughts.

• “Rainbow Dash...” - he called softly to her - “what do you think?”

There was a brief silence, the group turned their gaze to the multicolored mare who, until a few minutes ago, had been lost in her own mind. At the sound of her name, she seemed to disconnect from them to observe them and flash a lively smile, but devoid of her essence.

• “That's a great idea, it brings us a lot to grow as a team, it would be very foolish of us to miss that proposal” - said animatedly that Dash that Blooming and Shinning wanted her to be but for their bad luck she would never be.

Spitfire turned to the sisters, denoting an undoubted confidence as she answered - “Princesses, we appreciate your generous offer and, after carefully weighing all aspects, we Wonderbolts are willing to accept your proposal. It will be a true honor for our team to be part of this tour” - announced Spitfire with firmness and proper composure.

A glint of triumph shone in the eyes of the royal sisters, who exchanged a meaning-laden glance. - “Excellent choice, Wonderbolts, we are sure that this collaboration will be mutually beneficial” - replied Blooming Rose with a subtle but eloquent smile.

• “If you don't mind, I would like you to provide us with more details about the specific terms and conditions of this proposal, so that we can be fully confident that this is the best decision for our team” - requested Spitfire, her tone denoting cautious caution.

-"Of course, Captain Spitfire. We are more than willing to share all the details of our proposal so that you can analyze it thoroughly” - concluded Shinning Marigold.

As the sisters headed to the Wonderbolts to offer more details about the tour, Rainbow Dash felt a tingle in her mind. - “Why are they doing this to me, what do you win by controlling me?” - She mentally inquired, knowing that the princesses could hear her every thought through the link.

• “Patience, Rainbow Dash” - Shining Marigold replied in a reassuring but smug tone. - “All will be explained in due time and you will understand the reason behind all this, but for now, enjoy this moment with your companions.”

With a resigned sigh, Dash resigned herself to her fate temporarily, focusing her attention on the sisters' words and the reaction of the Wonderbolts, who it's worth mentioning, didn't hold back their enthusiasm and showed it in their own ways.

• “By the way team, we have prepared the best suites in the castle for you to rest tonight.” - Blooming Rose indicated as she took the floor again - “and in a few days, we will give you all the details about the tour itinerary and your participation guide.”

Spitfire took the floor with her usual calm determination: - “We greatly appreciate your hospitality and consideration in making us part of the tour, princesses.”

The royal sisters nodded with a smile, seemingly satisfied with the aerobatics team's response. Dash noticed how Blooming Rose and Shining Marigold's gazes were diverted to her, as if they were assessing her behavior, even though they already had it under their control.

Having concluded the greetings and arrangements to meet the next day to discuss the details of the tour, the Wonderbolts escorted the sisters to the elegant suites of the castle. The grand gala had come to an end and the guests had already retired to their respective homes.

Prince Aster was in a meeting with Princess Celestia, discussing matters of state. During the meeting, the prince reiterated his apologies for his unpunctuality during that evening's event.

The atmosphere in the castle was serene and calm after the excitement of the gala. The sisters and the Wonderbolts walked the halls, engrossed in animated conversation about plans for the upcoming tour, their voices echoing softly, creating an echo that spread across the walls of the imposing building.

As they approached the suites, they could feel the tension gradually ease, it was as if the hustle and bustle and excitement of the previous evening had been replaced by a sense of introspection and reflection.

Finally, after a few more announcements, it was time to retire to rest. The Wonderbolts began to make their way to their assigned suites in the castle. Dash mentally prepared herself for what was to come.

The princesses approached her with a carefree air, as if they were going to escort one more guest - “Oh, we forgot to mention, due to capacity issues your suite is further away from your team” - said Blooming Rose with mock politeness - “but don't worry, it's bigger and you'll be closer to us and Prince Aster, let us guide you”.

With this comment some of those already on their way to their rooms stopped their step, the other Wonderbolts could not help but exchange looks of surprise and curiosity. There was an air of uncertainty and, perhaps, even wariness among them and before Dash could react, Soarin took the floor with a slight frown.

• “Excuse me, Princess, but we've been to this castle before and we know it has enough capacity to house us together as a team, so why separate Rainbow Dash?” - some came forward in support of their companion's mention.

The sisters exchanged a glance before Blooming Rose replied with a reassuring smile - “not for nothing, but that is due to the instructions of our sponsor, Miss Moonflower, you will understand that she was so fascinated with your performance, that she has requested to have this Pegasus closer under her personal tutelage” - she explained - “she wishes to make sure that her patronage towards you is worth the time and investment”.

Spitfire also approached, with a cautious expression - “We understand, but we are still concerned that our newest flyer is so separated from us.”

• “Nothing to worry about, after all, we are in this together and it won't be for long” - Blooming said trying to soften the context orientation created by the acrobats - “it's while we define the tour schedule and travel schedules” - finished Blooming Rose, without losing her composure.

The words were carefully chosen to sound like a great honor and privilege, Spitfire narrowed her eyes, not very convinced, but finally nodded with reserve. With that the Bolts resumed their walk to their suits, some occasionally casting glances behind them.

Dash's helmet waved in farewell to her companions, hopefully being the last body check the sisters would exert on her heralding the end of probably the worst and most vulnerably confusing day of her life. With that, the princesses escorted Dash to the private suite, leaving the other Wonderbolts with an uneasy feeling and a determination to talk to their companion later in case there was something she wasn't telling them.

Once alone, the princesses resumed their course with Dash following closely behind them through the labyrinthine corridors, neither said anything.

Finally, they arrived at a lavishly decorated private suite, but located in a secluded and secluded wing of the castle, it was in the middle of the two sisters' rooms and opposite Prince Aster's. With a graceful gesture, Blooming Rose opened the door and let Dash enter first.

The interior of the suite was impressive and spacious, with luxurious furniture, soft carpets and a huge bed that occupied the center of the room, the walls were decorated with colorful tapestries, while the silk curtains let in the moonlight, creating a calm and cozy atmosphere.

As soon as the heavy doors closed behind them with a thud, the sisters' countenances changed completely, their faces turning cold as marble and their eyes tired and determined from what seemed like sincere prompt action.

• “All right, Rainbow Dash”-Shining Marigold's voice cut through the air like a whip-“it's time for you to know the real reason behind our actions and why we need you to set us free.”

A shiver ran down Dash's spine as she processed that what was about to be revealed to her was probably something she wasn't sure she wanted to understand. She swallowed hard, her heart pounding against her heart.

Meanwhile, in Spitfire's suite, Fleetfoot and she were in silent restlessness, unable to enjoy the luxurious atmosphere around them, something about Dash's behavior since they had found her had kept them uneasy.

Fleetfoot paced back and forth, his gaze lost in some distant spot. - "Something's not right with Rainbow Dash” - she declared, her voice laden with an apprehension she wasn't sure how to describe.

Spitfire nodded, stopping to face her friend. - "I noticed it too. Her behavior has been... strange since we found her after we lost track of her.” - Her amber eyes narrowed slightly.

-“ Especially when we're close to the three royal unicorns” - Fleetfoot added, analyzing the previous scenarios after finding her friend -“ add to that, they moved her away from us so she'd be closer to them.”

-“You're right about that, I hadn't thought of it that way” - Spitfire paused in her gait and frowned, her expression turning into a mask of concern, - “we can't ignore this any longer, we have to talk to her.”

Determined, the two mares left their comfortable quarters and strode steadily towards the secluded wing of the castle where Rainbow Dash's suite was located. An unsettling foreboding was pressing on their chests.

Tell me, how many times have we seen a loved one plunge into darkness, unable to understand what or who brought them there? It is in those moments when we most need the understanding and support of those around us, what would you do, dear reader? To be witnessing how someone close to you moves away from herself, from you, without really moving, transforming herself into a shadow of herself and projecting it onto others as if it were tangible, as if it were real, it is powerless to think about it and heartbreaking to live it.

Reaching to understand it and creating action requires patience, empathy and genuine surrender, offering a safe haven where they can find the strength to face their own fears, the pain is less when there is more support, when it is not carried alone.

Perhaps behind that huge door, that barrier that stands like an unbreakable wall, were the expected answers of the two pegasus, where certainties were scarce and reality, when finally revealed, might not be the salvation her friend needs...

Author's Note

I would like to begin this message by expressing my sincere thanks for your patience and understanding during my absence. The last few days have been extremely hectic for me, between work and academic commitments that have kept me constantly busy. However, I am happy to announce that next week I will officially enter the vacation term.

I have been immersed in thoughts of creation and deep reflection on the thread of this story, which I have really enjoyed doing, therefore, I emphasize that I always look for the way to choose the best way to continue this literary adventure with you.

I promise to do my best to reward your trust with exciting and impactful chapters in the coming weeks. I want to make sure that every word written is worthy of the time and dedication you give by immersing yourselves in this story.

So thank you for everything, your patience and understanding during these difficult days have been invaluable to me.