The oppressively dull sound of the ceiling fan rang out above Soarin and Rainbow Dash as a straight faced Spitfire glared at them from across her desk.

The lead Wonderbolt had her front hooves crossed and resting on her desk with her chin propped on top. She narrowed her gaze at the two pegasi, giving them just enough time to consider their actions earlier today. After a few minutes of judging stares, Spitfire finally opened her mouth to speak.

"You two know why I called you here, right?" She prodded, her rhetorical question hanging in the air like a fog. The two ponies nodded professionally, their stares holding as they waited for the expected shouting. "Then explain. Explain why I'm dealing with the entirety of the mess hall being filled with soap!" There was a slight raise to the mare's voice, but it hadn't become shouting yet, though it carried the same weight.

Spitfire's two subordinates sat in silence for a beat before Rainbow spoke up. "That was me Spitfire, sir. It was meant to be a prank for Soarin, but it was a bit of a... Slippery situation." Rainbow had the slightest hints of a smirk forming on her face. Soarin did his best to hold back a giggle. Spitfire turned her attention to him, immediately shutting him down.

"Soarin. You seem to think this is funny. Care to explain why Rainbow here thought this was a good idea?" Soarin straightened at the use of his real name, letting him know this was a serious issue.

"Right! Well... Crash and I were-" he interrupted himself, doing his best to keep professional. "Dash, and I have this joke where... She calls me crusty, cause I'm older and the whole, growing up in a bakery thing."

Rainbow snorted quietly, before immediately straightening up again when Spitfire shot her a glance. "So... I guess she got the idea to prank me by cleaning up my act?"

Both of the ponies before Spitfire were on the verge of a laughing fit, but Spitfire wasn't amused. She turned back to Rainbow and raised an eyebrow. Spitfire spoke with a cool anger, letting it simmer as she got more information. "And Rainbow Dash. Why, for Celestia's sake, did you think you needed to fill the entirety of the mess hall instead of, I don't know, anything else?"

Rainbow's voice was defensive, but careful. "Well, I didn't mean for the prank to be on all the Bolts. I just... knew Soarin spent a lot of time in the Mess Hall and wanted to make sure he couldn't miss it. I was gonna clean it up once I got him!"

Spitfire sighed and rubbed her right temple with a hoof. "But you didn't... did you?"

Rainbow's gaze met the ceiling as she nervously answered, "Heh... I uh, guess not, huh?"

Spitfire's glare grew colder as she thought about what to do. Celestia give me strength. Even now they can't help giggling like foals. I can't let this stand. They've had too many chances. Spitfire leaned back in her seat, keeping her expression neutral.

"Rainbow Dash, for causing a disturbance in the compound, you're on bathroom duty for the next month. Soarin, for encouraging Rainbow's reckless behavior, you're going to clean the mess she left. And I expect both of you to apologize to all your fellow Bolts for the disruption. You're both dismissed," Spitfire spat at them. She was going to turn from them when Rainbow spoke up.

"Aww come on, Spitfire! Soarin didn't have anything to do with it. Why's he getting punished?"

Spitfire squinted as she spoke slowly, "Really? So you two haven't been egging each other on to bigger and better pranks for the last two months? You think I don't know about that?"

Rainbow paused, giving Soarin a chance to speak. "But they've all been harmless. 'Til now, we've only been playing pranks on each other. And even this one was pretty tame. We're all pegasi in our prime. It's not like most of us couldn't handle some slippery floor." Rainbow was quick to chime in her agreement.

Spitfire closes her eyes, her cheek twitching a bit. "It isn't about how dangerous the pranks were. You two are Wonderbolts; not just elite fliers but a branch of Celestia's military. These 'pranks,' hurt our image and make us look like a group of immature foals. Our reputation took enough of a hit after failing to stop Tirek two years ago.”

All three ponies winced at recalling that particularly embarrassing display. "And don't think I'm ignorant to the fact you placed a firecracker in the stalls of our most recent show, Soarin. You were lucky it was Rainbow Dash here that found it, and not a civilian."

Rainbow shot up from her seat in mild annoyance. "Oh, come on! That one was funny! It was low caliber. The most it would do is give somepony a start. You act like we're putting ponies in danger." Rainbow floated closer to the desk, resting a hoof on it in a casual manner. "Trust me, I learned all about curbing my pranks from my buds back in Ponyville." Dash seemed to shiver a bit recalling that particular Friendship lesson. "This one just got a bit out of hoof. It won't happen again."

Spitfire grit her teeth. "It shouldn't have happened in the first place! If word got out that two of our best fliers were pulling childish pranks on each other, Equestria would stop taking us seriously."

Rather than back down, Rainbow narrowed her eyes at that. Spitfire knew that look. If Rainbow didn't back down now, she was going to say something she regretted. But Spitfire knew she wouldn't do that.

"You know Spitfire, you're sooo worried about the Wonderbolt's reputation, but when was the last time the Bolts actually did something when Equestria was in danger?" Spitfire held back a snarl, as her gaze grew more fierce.

Soarin immediately knew she messed up and got up from his seat to calm his friend down. "Dash... Spitfire already dismissed us. Maybe we should head out. I can handle the mess hall."

Spitfire held a hoof, her rage at a boiling point. "No, let her speak. Please, Rainbow Dash. Tell me again. What did you just say about the Wonderbolts?"

Rainbow paused for a bit, but her ego was getting the better of her. "You're so worried about the image of the Bolts as some elite military force but you don't do anything! Who saved Equestria twice in the last 2 months? Oh, right. It was me and my friends. Pony of Shadows and the Storm King. Heard of them? And who was the last group of ponies to save Equestria before that? One of them was a STAGE magician. How does Trixie have more credits than a branch of the military? And-"

"ENOUGH!" Spitfire's shout boomed like thunder, immediately shutting up the brash pegasus. Spitfire slammed her hooves on the desk, leaving a fresh crack in the woodwork. "Clearly your friends never taught you to not run your mouth about things you know nothing about! You dare belittle the team and this institution that you're a part of like you're the only pony working to help Equestria! You may be an amazing flier, and even one of this country's heroes, but you have a lot to learn about respect. Ponies have lost their lives in defense of this country and you dare run your mouth cause you're an element bearer? An inflated ego, I can handle, but to so blatantly write off the sacrifices Wonderbolts of the past made... You're lucky I don't ban you from the Wonderbolts for insubordination! You are on thin ice Dash."

Any fight Rainbow had in her, left with each word Spitfire spoke. She simply floated back down to her seat, awaiting her CO's final judgment.

Spitfire seethed in her anger for a bit, glaring between the two dead silent ponies. "Rainbow Dash, effective immediately, I'm pulling you from any shows until you can show proper respect to not just me, but your fellow Wonderbolts. Now, both of you, get out of my sight."

Neither of them had anything to say to that, both giving a quick salute before leaving Spitfire's office in silence.

Spitfire did her best to relax, but she could feel the slight tremor in her forehooves. It would be a bit before she was calm enough to leave her office.

***

The day progressed in silence, word spreading fast that Spitfire gave Rainbow such a harsh punishment. She forced my hoof. That level of disrespect... Spitfire shook her head. She wasn't happy about having to put her hoof down like that. She understood that Rainbow was still young and had only been with the team for about a year and a half. But she wasn't that much younger than Spitfire herself.

Was I that self-centered four years ago? For Rainbow to think she was the only member of the Wonderbolts who was pulling her weight? That's beyond naiveté. Spitfire's mind wandered back to a certain pony many years back. One that pushed her to being the current Captain of the Wonderbolts. One who's wisdom and guidance would be with her until she died. One who's voice she missed to this day.

Before she could get too lost in thought, something broke her from her musing. "Hey, Captain!" a raspy voice called out from across the runway. Spitfire sighed and eyed the blue pegasus.

"If this is about getting back in the show, I'm not in the mood, Crash," She said the name with a little too much venom in her voice.

To her credit, Rainbow took the name she once hated with stride. She looked both ways before crossing the runway to Spitfire. "No, Spitfire it's not about that. I actually wanted to apologize. I got heated and didn't think about what I was saying. I meant no offense to you or the other Wonderbolts."

This was a surprise. It didn't make up for her words but at least she sounded sincere. Maybe her friends taught her more than she thought.

"Look Rainbow, you may be this hot shot that's showed us up a few times and helped remind us what the Wonderbolts should stand for, but you need to realize that just because you don't see us helping, doesn't mean we do nothing."

Rainbow nodded and landed in front of Spitfire, dipping her head a bit. "I understand. I'll be better about seeing that."

Spitfire eyed the mare, seeing she clearly had more to say. "Alright. See to it. Now, what else did you want to talk to me about?"

"I heard your birthday was coming up this Saturday and... Well, I was wondering if you wanted to swing by Ponyville and hang out?"

Spitfire's gaze tightened, trying to figure out what Rainbow's angle was. "If you learned about my birthday, you should also know I keep it a secret for a reason."

"That's why I didn't tell Pinkie about it. She'd probably try to throw you a party even if I begged her not to. We just need to be careful she doesn't find out. Then again, she might know it already cause she's just like that but..." Rainbow's voice faded off, giving a thousand yard stare.

Spitfire hesitated, waving a hoof in front of the frozen mare's face. Rainbow shook her head back to consciousness. "We just won't tell her, alright?"

Spitfire hummed a bit, recovering from her momentary concern. "And what makes you think I want to spend my, 'secret,' birthday with you, Crash? You disrespected me and the Wonderbolts in a huge way today."

Rainbow rubbed her side and glanced at the ground. "You're right. Consider it... Making up for today." Rainbow's attention quickly shot back to Spitfire as an excited smile spread across her face. "Oh! It's your birthday sooooo... If you join me, I'll follow any command you give! Without question! That way, you can get some payback and I'll get some extra discipline."

Spitfire rolled the idea around in her mind. It wasn't terrible. She was already thinking of a few ways she could make Rainbow regret that offer. "You sure about that, Rainbow Dash? You might end up regretting it."

Rainbow's expression oozed confidence. "I can handle anything you throw at me! I've been a Bolt for almost two years, and a Reserve for even longer! I got this!"

I'll make you eat those words, newbie. Spitfire held out a hoof to Rainbow Dash. "You got a deal, Rainbow Dash." Rainbow was quick to meet her hoof with Spitfire's, dooming her to Spitfire's fury. With that, Rainbow shot up into the sky, letting out a loud whooping sound as she went.

"That little pony has no idea what she signed up for."

***

After a moderate flight, Spitfire could see the familiar sight of Ponyville in the distance. Before meeting Rainbow Dash, Spitfire never thought about this little town much.

It was quaint, peaceful and the citizens were friendly, but that was true of a lot of places, and Spitfire honestly preferred places with a bit more energy to them.

But in just a few short years it had become a center for so much activity. Spitfire had to wonder if this place had always been so chaotic or if major events were drawn to Element Bearers like fan ponies to a show.

Spitfire carried a basket in her mouth that Rainbow insisted she bring. It contained an assortment of items she didn't really care about. An ugly old table lamp her mother gave her one year for Hearth's Warming, a few dead light bulbs, an ancient third place trophy she found in her attic; Rainbow did say they should be things that would make a satisfying crunch. Spitfire could take a guess at what Rainbow wanted to do with them but she decided to humor her.

Hope there's more to today than just smashing things.

She descended from the cloud line, making her way to the address Rainbow gave her. At first, Spitfire was confused about the number. She couldn't see any houses on the ground, so where was Rainbow taking her? She'd assumed this was Rainbow's home address. Does Rainbow live in some shack in the middle of nowhere? That didn't feel right.

Then she saw it. A magnificent tower, crafted out of clouds with an artisan's level of finesse added to the pillar's circling its structure. A rounded dome covered the top of the tower with a large waterfall of rainbow flowing out and forming a waterfall that spilled out onto the cloud foundation. Pools of the prismatic liquid rushed even further down, forming more falls to the ground below. Spitfire made an educated guess as to whose house this was, but it felt more like an art exhibit.

She must've got this place after becoming a Wonderbolt. No way could she afford this kind of house on a weather pony's salary.

Spitfire pushed past her shock and landed by the front door, knocking loudly and firmly. "Rainbow Dash! You in there?"

There was an unintelligible yelp followed by several crashing sounds before Rainbow was at the door. She looked like she'd just rolled out of bed. Her mane was a mess and she seemed slow to respond. A loud yawn escaped her muzzle before she spoke.

"Spitfire...? I wasn't expecting you for another few hours. What are you doing here so early?" Rainbow swayed a bit, like she'd fall back asleep.

The Wonderbolt Captain was happy she decided to bring her whistle and shades along. The screech made Rainbow shoot back to life and jump, hitting her head on the door frame. "Ten hut, Rainbow Crash! It's O' eight hundred. What kind of Wonderbolt is still in bed by now? Get your flank moving! We've got daylight to burn."

Rainbow groaned and rubbed her head, trying to wake herself up more. "But we have the day off... We're not even at the compound."

"A Wonderbolt needs to be ready at all times. That means being up early, even when off duty." Spitfire wanted to start the day off right. "Since you seem to still be in Lala land and not Equestria, why don't you wake up with a nice dip in your own rainbow pool."

That definitely got Rainbow's attention. "It's still early! That's gonna be freezing!"

"Are you questioning a direct order from your Captain?" Spitfire leaned in to Dash, looking at her with one wide amber eye. With a grumble, Rainbow plunged herself in the chilly depths, instantly waking her up. Spitfire couldn't help but grin as she watched the pegasus shiver. "Now give me one hundred laps!"

"Yes ma'am!" Rainbow said, through chattering teeth. She lifted off, doing her best to shake off the icy liquid sticking to her fur. While she did that, Spitfire found a lawn chair in Rainbow's house and laid back. Spitfire unfolded her sunglasses and enjoyed her small vengeance, as well as the warm sun beating down on her.

Once Rainbow finished her laps, Spitfire sat up, pulling her shades down to look at Dash. "You awake yet? Or do you need more laps." Rainbow shook her head, no longer shivering from the cold. "Good to see you remembered our deal."

Spitfire took one more look at Rainbow's home before standing fully. "Nice place you got here. Must've saved up a lot to get it."

Rainbow seemed a bit caught off guard but gave a delayed nod. "Oh. Yeah, it was a little expensive. But it wasn't too bad since I made it myself."

That made Spitfire freeze. "You... Made this house? You pulling my leg, newbie?"

"No, ma'am. I've been cloud shaping since I was a filly! This place was easy."

This place would put some cloud architects in Cloudsdale to shame! And she did it alone? Of all of Dash's talents, Spitfire never expected one of them to be architecture.

Might have to look into asking Dash for help with my own pad.

"Suuure... Care to fill me in on what there is to do here in Ponyville?"

"Well, there's Sugar Cube Corner if you're into sweets, we got a new club but they're not open until later, the lake nearby is one of my usual spots..." Rainbow's eyes finally landed on Spitfire's basket of junk. "Oh! You actually brought something! Those are for later. I got something special for us at twelve. We can just leave that here for now." Rainbow rushed to scoop the basket up and dropped it off in her house.

Spitfire considered her options, trying to recall anything that caught her attention on the way in. Spitfire never really had all that much of a sweet tooth, even as a filly. A club sounded like it could be fun but not at eight in the morning and the lake... Spitfire hated getting wet if she didn't have to, the irony of which also wasn’t lost on her.

A loud grumbling sound rumbled as she remembered that café back in town. When Rainbow returned, Spitfire's mind was made up.

***

While the two ate breakfast, an ear piercing screech rang out, immediately alerting both pegasi. Spitfire was first to respond, shooting her gaze to the source of the sound.

"Somepony's in danger! Rainbow Dash, on me!" Spitfire shot from her chair like a bullet.

Rainbow was by her side in less than a second. She tried to speak but still had a bite of her breakfast muffling her. With a quick swallow, she repeated her earlier statement.

"That sounded like Rarity!"

Spitfire nodded before locking in on a fancily designed building, made to look like a carousel. With a quick scan, she couldn't tell what the danger was. All she could see in the windows were ornate dresses covered in way too many gemstones for Spitfire's liking.

The two barged through the door, finding it was, fortunately, unlocked. Spitfire surveyed the room, finding a white coated pony, dramatically posing on a red cushioned couch.

Spitfire recognized this pony, remembering her from the Best Young Flier's Competition and from Celestia's royal garden opening in Canterlot.

Rainbow Dash was first to respond, resting a hoof on the unicorn's side. "Rarity! What happened? That scream could be heard all the way from Yakyakistan."

Rainbow was checking Rarity for any injuries when the fashion pony turned to her friend, mascara running as she whimpered. "Oh Rainbow Dash, it's just dreadful! Fluttershy was supposed to model for me today but she..." Rarity sniffled, making both the concerned pegasi lean closer in anticipation. "She had to cancel..."

The tension immediately faded as Rainbow's expression turned from concern to annoyance. "That's it... That's what that scream was for?!" Dash momentarily paused as she processed the events. “Why am I even acting shocked, you always make a huge deal out of stuff like this.”

"Rainbow darling, you don't understand. I need a pegasus model for my new line! The client's from Cloudsdale and is expecting perfection!"

As she watched the two ponies bicker, Spitfire couldn't help but think of a new way to get back at Dash, a smile quickly forming.

Spitfire cleared her throat, getting both of the friends attention. "Think I know something that could help. You need a pegasus pony, right? Why not Crash here? Heard her talking you up a lot back at the base. It'd only make sense she'd want to help out, wouldn't you?"

Rainbow's look of betrayal could be felt without so much as a glance, but Spitfire just grinned widely. Rarity didn't seem to pick up what was going on between the pegasi.

"You'd... really be willing to help me, Rainbow Dash?"

Rainbow's gut instinct was to decline Rarity's plea for help, but she was caught in Spitfire's web. A web given to Spitfire by herself. It only struck her now how evil Spitfire could truly be.

"I'd... Love to... Rarity. Nothing would make me happier than helping one of my best friends with... Dresses." She gritted her teeth, trying not to let on her disdain.

Rarity either didn't notice or didn't care, pouncing on her friend with a flurry of thank yous as she dragged her to the backrooms. Rainbow glared at Spitfire the whole time, making Spitfire's grin only grow. She did stop them before Rainbow was gone, giving her a glimmer of hope.

"Toss me your wallet. Gonna go pay for our breakfast."

***

Three hours. Three hours Rarity spent fussing over Rainbow Dash, trying to make the dress as beautiful as possible. Three hours of Rainbow groaning and tapping her hoof and trying to escape. Three hours that made up for it in the best way possible.

Rainbow emerged from the dressing room, dolled up more than she'd ever been in her life.

Her rainbow mane done up high in a beehive style, with diamonds placed about to keep its shape. Bangs hung down from the sides of her face, curling at the end. Rainbow's tail was braided with a bow tied around the base. Pink eyeliner and lipstick that would've given the rugged pony a refined look if she wasn't wearing the mother of all scowls. Her dress was long and flowy, sparkling in all colors with every stomp she took. Small gemstone earrings dangled from her down pointed ears. Rainbow's heels were taking a beating, which was unfortunate. Even Spitfire had to admit they were gorgeous, shimmering with every heavy hoof fall closer.

Needless to say, the sight and experience left the veteran Wonderbolt on cloud nine.

Rainbow made a face like someone mentioned hibernation around Tank, but before she could go off on Spitfire, Rarity followed her out of the back room, bouncing like the floor was made of jelly. "Oooooo~! It's perfect, darling! I knew you'd be the perfect model for this dress! I really wish you'd let me do this more often. You make every ensemble pop!"

"Guess she's not called Rainbow Fash around the compound for nothing," Spitfire teased.

Rainbow's ear twitched twice before turning back to Rarity. "Rarity! Are we done yet? We've been here forever and this make up is making my eyes burn!"

Rarity tutted softly, "Honestly, Rainbow Dash. You're always in a hurry. You should slow down. It's not about the destination, but the journey." Rarity used her magic to quickly remove Rainbow's dress, floating it over to a clothing rack.

The second she was free, Rainbow charged for the door, ready to wipe the make-up off her face and free her hair from its constraints. Spitfire kindly stepped in front of the door, not quite done tormenting the poor pony.

"Gotta say, don't look half bad, Crash. It'd be a shame to have nopony see your new style. I say keep it up for a little longer. I'd love to have some more opinions."

Rainbow's look of utter heartbreak almost made Spitfire feel bad, but Spitfire had to add one last thing. "Better yet, any time somepony mentions your new do, I want you to blow that pony a kiss." Rainbow wanted to scream. It was written all over Rainbow's face. But she didn't want to give Spitfire the satisfaction. This was a challenge and Rainbow Dash never backed down from a challenge. And Spitfire was using that to her advantage.

Once the two left from Carousel Boutique, Spitfire cracked up, no longer able to hold it back. Rainbow huffed, blowing the curly bangs away from her face. "This is cruel and unusual punishment, Captain."

"What? You really do look good." Spitfire looked at Rainbow Dash expectantly. It took her a moment before Rainbow registered what she wanted.

With a growl, Rainbow placed a feather to her muzzle and kissed it before blowing the kiss towards Spitfire. She couldn't help but break again, still laughing as she spoke.

"You certainly put up with a lot, huh Crash? I thought you would've cracked by now." Spitfire wiped a tear from her eye as she slowly recovered from her laughing fit.

Rainbow was quick to snap back at Spitfire, a determined look in her eye. "I said I could handle anything you threw at me and I meant it! This is nothing."

Spitfire had to admire the newbie's tenacity. Rainbow hadn't blown her top even once, despite Spitfire putting her through the wringer. Maybe it was because she had something to prove? Or was Rainbow Dash just really determined to make up for a few days ago?

Despite thinking she knew everything about the brash rookie, she really couldn't tell. Maybe that would change and she'd break later, but Rainbow Dash was still finding ways to impress her.

"Alright, now what was it you wanted to-" A loud explosion rippled through the air, sending Spitfire into emergency response mode again.

"Detonation, five yards. Let's move." Spitfire took off mid sentence, swiftly followed by Rainbow Dash.

After images trailed behind the two Wonderbolts as they closed the distance between them and the potential danger, finding its source to be some form of sweets shop. The structure seemed to be intact, but a look through the window told Spitfire there was some pink mass rapidly expanding. Spitfire barreled for the window, bracing for impact when she suddenly lost all momentum.

Spitfire looked around frantically, trying to make out why she stopped. Purple magic had enveloped her form. Spitfire turned to find the culprit, a pink unicorn with a purple mane and tail. Both had a single streak of light blue hair running through them.

Starlight breathed a sigh of relief and released both Spitfire and Rainbow Dash from her magic hold. "Sorry about that, you two. Didn't want either of you getting hurt."

"Starlight Glimmer? What in Equestria is going on in there?!" Spitfire demanded, her eyes still scanning the building to make sure nopony was inside.

"I can assure you, everything is under control. Pinkie and I just had a little... Mishap. And now she's handling it." The tone was far too casual for Spitfire's liking. Rainbow's response was even more concerning.

"Pinkie ask you to cast a growth spell on one of her cakes again?"

Starlight chuckled nervously and rubbed her forehoof, giving a soft nod. "She said she could stop it from growing out of control this time." Pink frosting caked the inside of the window, obscuring the inside of Sugar Cube Corner. "It's at least better than before so... progress?"

Spitfire was dumbfounded. "Before?! How often do cakes explode here?"

Rainbow shrugged softly, a nonchalant look on her face. "Give or take, about once or twice a week. You get used to it."

Her response left Spitfire utterly floored, staring at the wreckage and the mental image of it being a regular event.

What is this town?!

Spitfire needed a distraction or she would just keep thinking about how Ponyville was a magnet for trouble. Luckily, Starlight was more than happy to give her one.

"Nice to see you again Spitfire. Sorry we didn't get to talk much at the school last week."

Spitfire sighed, actively turning so the cake catastrophe was behind her. "Not a problem. I understand. with both the students and Discord to deal with, you had your hooves full. Your kids aren't half bad. That hippogriff, Silver Stream I think, said she wanted to join the reserves at some point."

Rainbow cocked her head a bit. "Wait, Spitfire... When'd you meet Starlight?"

"Remember the Friendship Festival? Yeah... Spitfire kinda saved me when I was surrounded by Storm Guards." Starlight chuckled nervously before registering what Rainbow was wearing. "Rainbow... Are you wearing make-up?"

Rainbow's shocked expression dropped as she groaned. Rainbow blew a kiss to her friend, making Starlight look at her funny. Spitfire snorted softly.

"I told you, Rainbow. Just because you didn't see us helping, doesn't mean we didn't. Somepony had to protect Equestria while you were gone." Spitfire did little to hide the pride in her voice.

Shame washed over Rainbow Dash, but it wasn't from the embarrassing moment. Spitfire could tell Rainbow finally realized the extent of her disrespect. Spitfire let the rookie sit with her revelation, knowing she'd need time to truly think about her screw-up.

During the silence, the door to Sugar Cube Corner swung open, showing nothing but a hallway full of cake. Then Pinkie Pie stepped out of the mass with a playful prance, completely no worse for wear.

"The cakezilla is under control! Come on in Starlight, the cake is deeeelicious!" Pinkie giggled bubbly, letting out a snort before clocking her friend. "Oh, hi Dashie!" The bouncing pony tackled Rainbow, giving her a tight hug.

The hug seemed to shake Rainbow out of her thoughts, cheering her up just a bit. "Hey, Pinkie. Good to see you."

Pinkie frowned at the unusually low energy greeting from her best friend. "Are you okay Dash...? You look like somecreature served you a big cup of depresso..."

Rainbow chuckled weakly before turning her attention to Spitfire. "I'm alright, Pinkie. Just realized how much of a jerk I've been."

Spitfire gave Rainbow a small smile, hopeful the lesson would stick now. It was then Spitfire realized what time it was.

"Dash, didn't we have somewhere to be soon? Something you planned for us?"

Rainbow's expression immediately shifted, pulling from Pinkie's grip as fast as possible. "Right! Pinkie, I'll see you later! Spitfire and I are gonna be late!"

With the absence of Rainbow giving her balance, Pinkie fell flat on her face. She scrambled to her hooves, still worried about her friend. "W-Wait! Where are you going? Can I come?"

Rainbow looked a little guilty, rubbing the back of her head with a hoof. "Sorry Pinkie. It's kinda just between the two of us. We're going to Breakpoint to celebrate Spitfire's-" Rainbow suddenly stopped herself, realizing how close she was to blowing their cover.

"Celebrate...? Like a party? What are you two celebrating?" Pinkie had a sudden suspicious tone to her voice, reminding Spitfire of the pony's, 'investigation' at the compound two months back.

"I broke a new record during training yesterday. It's been a pretty big deal around headquarters. Rainbow Dash here thought it'd be a good idea to celebrate in Ponyville," Spitfire said coolly, turning back to Dash with a confident smile.

Rainbow was quick to nod, but Pinkie Pie turned her head at them, sizing them up with one eye that bulged a bit towards them, actually causing the unflinching Spitfire to take a step back.

Pinkie let out an overdramatic, "Hmmmmmm..."

"We should get going! We still have to stop by my place to grab our stuff. Bye Pinkie, bye Starlight!" Rainbow rocketed off, grabbing Spitfire as she went.

While the pegasi flew, Spitfire waved at Rainbow's friends. Only Starlight returned the gesture. Pinkie was still in that same pose, frozen in suspicion.

***

From the outside, Breakpoint looked like a fairly simple building. It had a fresh coat of paint, making Spitfire think that it was fairly new. Over the door hung a large billboard with the words, "Breakpoint," and a graphic of a baseball bat shattering a vase. Spitfire was... On the fence about this place.

It wasn't long before the two were led into the back by a tall Unicorn. Spitfire hung back a bit, her curiosity getting the best of her. She cracked open one of the doors to Rage Room 1.

She was surprised to find Princess Twilight Sparkle standing in front of a table with an old stereo on it. The only reason Spitfire could tell the pony was Twilight was because of her general body shape. She was wearing what looked like Owl pajamas that covered her whole body.

The Princess levitated a bat in her magic, almost in preparation for something. The stereo squeaked out a strange tune. "Can we pretend that-"

Smash!

Twilight swung her bat down once. Twice. Thrice. She kept smashing, over and over as she cackled wickedly. Spitfire decided that was enough.

She moved onto the next room. Spitfire was already falling behind a bit so she decided to just take a quick glance in this one before moving on.

Rage Room 2 was just on fire, completely on fire. The walls, the table, any scattered objects inside. The only thing that wasn't on fire was Pinkie Pie, who was standing completely still in an alligator onesie. She had an eerie smile on her face. Spitfire only saw a split second but it was enough to make her want to double back.

Spitfire opened the door fully now, only to find the fire was gone and the room was spotless. Pinkie still stood there, with the same smile on her face. Spitfire stared, at a loss for words. Pinkie's head started to slowly turn to her, prompting Spitfire to slam the door and skitter away.

The now shaken Wonderbolt quickly caught back up with Rainbow and the unicorn, definitely feeling more perturbed than she was before. Rainbow shot her a look but Spitfire simply shook her head, telling her not to ask.

After a quick rundown of the rules, the two were led into their room. On the table in the center of the room sat two baskets of personal items that Spitfire and Dash brought with them, but that wasn't all. Old furniture, busted lamps and ceramic dishes littered the room, just waiting to be trashed. Despite how childish it felt, Spitfire had to admit she was getting excited.

The unicorn directed them to a rack of animal pajamas and the stash of blunt weapons in the corner. He told them they had the room for an hour and closed the door behind him.

Rainbow didn't waste any time, getting dressed in a turtle onesie. Or was it a tortoise? Spitfire decided it didn't matter. She grabbed the first set of protective sleepwear she could find and donned it in an instant, which happened to be a tiger.

Spitfire grabbed a metal bat, giving it a few test swings before turning to Rainbow Dash.

"So... I just get to destroy things?" Rainbow cracked a smile as she nodded at Spitfire's question. "Anything in here?" Rainbow just grinned more.

Spitfire clenched her jaw around her weapon and she was off, burying her bat in the glass of an old display case. The shattering sound shot lightning through Spitfire's system as the rain of glass flew past her mane. She cracked her neck before blowing out the wooden frame, sending splinters flying through the air. CRACK With the bat again. CRACK! CRACK! Over and over until the display was nothing but wood pulp and shards on the floor. Spitfire let out a howl and leapt to the next object, bringing all her weight down it in a second.

Rainbow leaned against a nearby wall, enjoying the carnage almost as much as Spitfire was. "Don't think I've ever seen you this fired up, Punt Cake."

Spitfire froze, her eyes glowing with primal rage as she cocked her head to the side at Dash. "What was that, newbie?"

Rainbow Dash held up her hooves in mock defense, backing up with a smug look. "Touchy. Not used to your own nickname?"

Nopony ever called Spitfire by that name. All the Bolts were too intimidated by the Captain's reputation to ever use it. All but one, a while back. And now, Dash. Just hearing the name got her burning even hotter.

"You just gonna stand there newbie, or are you going to help me turn everything here to dust?"

A wicked grin shot across Rainbow's muzzle. "Thought you'd never ask."

The two athletes tore through the room like a storm of timber wolves, cracking, splintering and shattering everything they could get their hooves on.

Rainbow grabbed a glass before throwing it at Spitfire, who in turn shattered it mid air with her bat. Spitfire ripped the door off an armoire with her teeth before Rainbow exploded it with her buccaneer blaze. Spitfire was in a state of complete frenzy and she loved it.

Finally, she turned to one of the items she'd brought with her, a murderous gleam in her eye. She grabbed that old table lamp from her mother. She held it in her hoof as she looked it over.

"I always hated this lamp. It's ugly as sin." Spitfire bared her teeth in destructive glee. "Wonder how well it'll shatter~"

Spitfire lifted the lamp up and readied her bat when it suddenly spoke. "Spitfire! You are too old for this nonsense!" Its voice was high pitched and squeaky.

Spitfire stuttered as she dropped the lamp in shock. "Rainbow! The lamp just SPOKE!"

It then spoke again. "Clean up this mess! Honestly, what kind of example are you setting..." it continued to ramble on as Rainbow flew next to Spitfire.

"Now you see what sets this place apart." Rainbow chuckled as she lifted an item from her own basket. It looked like a limited edition Wind Rider glass cup. The face of Wind Rider started to speak as well, rambling on about Rainbow's insecurities. Rainbow threw it at a wall, shattering it instantly.

"They enchant the items you bring. Makes it more fun to break."

The small lamp was still going on, saying all the things she'd thought before coming here.

"Childish behavior has no place in the Wonderbolts. You should be working, not goofing off. You're setting a bad example for the team."

This wasn't some spell made for catharsis, it gave voice to the nagging voice inside and called out everything a pony hated about themselves.

"You'll never be half the Wonderbolt she was!"

Time slowed as Spitfire's legs kicked into overdrive. Each stomp towards the intrusive thoughts given physical form echoed in her mind, drowning out anything else. This... This was the real purpose of the room, letting a pony buck away at the part of them that was never satisfied. A way to break through that force keeping them down. An escape from doubts.

Glass shards cracked under Spitfire's hoof, pushing her further as she winded up her shot. Spitfire could swear she saw her bat catch fire with the speed she swung it.

The resulting smashing sound sent the whole world into clarity, easing away the tension Spitfire had held for so long. Wings relaxed, her vision cleared and sensations she hadn't felt in forever returned back to her. She tasted the saltiness of sweat from her brow, any aches and pains in her body faded, all freed in a swing of a smoking bat. That ugly lamp was in smithereens before Spitfire, sparking slightly as the pegasus felt true bliss for the first time in a while.

Spitfire wanted to keep going, but her body was so relaxed from the relief she couldn't will it to move. A part of her knew that the voice wasn't gone. It was still in her head. It would never leave her. But she didn't care. She could finally give that voice a piece of her mind. And she could do it again.

That thought gave her the strength to take to the air. Rainbow was still standing behind her as Spitfire turned only her head to Dash. The intense side eye of her Captain was enough to shake Rainbow out of her daze.

"Throw me another."

***

Spitfire and Rainbow Dash left nothing in their room intact. Even Spitfire's bat left melted and disfigured. Spitfire trotted out of the rage room with every muscle aching. Her hooves were bruised through the suit, and her wings hurt too much to fly. Spitfire's mane hung in wet strands, making her look like a drowned rat. The only thing keeping Spitfire standing was pure adrenaline.

And yet, she never felt better.

Rainbow Dash didn't look especially pretty either. The makeup Rarity gave her was running and her hair frizzed wildly. Spitfire gave her permission to finally pull her hair down and wash off her face.

After a few bottles of water, the two Wonderbolts decided to crash in the nearby park to catch their breath. Spitfire wobbled on her hooves before collapsing onto her back with a huff. Spitfire let out a few tired chuckles before turning to face Rainbow.

"So, this is what it's like to hang with the great Rainbow Dash? I can see why Soarin talks about you so much. You're a bad influence."

Rainbow was sprawled out on her back, seemingly just as tired as Spitfire was. She let out a slight giggle.

"If you consider fun a bad influence! Don't act like that wasn't a blast."

Spitfire smirked and looked back to the sky. "Got me there, Crash. It's been too long since I just let myself have fun with something. You were right, I needed this."

"I knew you did. I just don't get why you don't do things like this more often."

"I'm the Captain of the Wonderbolts. I can't just do whatever I want. There's a lot of pressure to perform at the top."

Rainbow sat up, looking to Spitfire with a concerned expression. "All the more reason you need time to let loose. If everycreature keeps winding you up like a spring, eventually you're gonna pop. You need to relieve the tension every now and then."

Spitfire sighed. It wasn't the first time she heard something like this. This conversation was all too familiar to her. She turned to face Dash again.

"You've been talking to Soarin about me, huh?"

"Well, yeah. He's your oldest friend. He worries about you. A lot. And so do I. We're both worried you're pushing yourself too hard."

Spitfire closed her eyes and took in a deep breath. "You two don't need to do that. I know my limits." Rainbow seemed disappointed by this answer. She looked like she was going to speak up but Spitfire raised a hoof to stop her.

"But, it's still nice to know you're both there for me. I'll try to give myself more room to breathe." Spitfire got to her hooves, the ache in her legs fading as the moment of relaxation gave her a second wind. "I've been overly stressed because what you said in my office was true. The Wonderbolts have been inactive in too many threats to Equestria. Tirek, Discord, Queen Chrysalis. All threats we were powerless to stop. But that doesn't mean I'm going to give up. I want to form a team that can stand up against the threats Equestria is facing. But I need the best ponies I can get to do it."

Spitfire stopped, having walked a few paces from Rainbow, who was still watching from the ground.

"Ponies that can take orders and even challenge me when I'm being stubborn. Ponies who will own up to their mistakes and do everything in their power to make up for them. Ponies that care enough about their team members to spend time with them, even if they aren't on the best terms. I need ponies like you Rainbow Dash."

Spitfire turned, walking back to Rainbow Dash and extending her hoof towards her. "What do you say, Dash? Wanna help me build the best team of Wonderbolts Equestria has ever seen?"

Rainbow didn't even hesitate, grabbing it the second Spitfire stopped talking.

"You know it! On one condition." Rainbow pulled herself up with the help of Spitfire, giving her a serious look. "You let yourself have fun every now and then. The biggest accomplishments in Equestria weren't pulled off by just a group of ponies. It was accomplished by a group of friends."

Spitfire smirked. "Guess you're right, Dash. But I think we've got that part down."

Rainbow grinned back. "True."

The two turned from each other, now standing side by side as they looked to Ponyville.

"So... You ready for more fun? We still have half the day left. I've got a lot more orders for you."

"I'm always ready! Part of the Wonderbolt Code, isn't it?"

The two shared a knowing glance, both feeling confident in the future of the Wonderbolts. Spitfire couldn't help but feel a little foalish, being so excited about having a new friend. But maybe foalish things weren't so bad every now and then. And then they were off.

Author's Note

Thank you again for reading. This chapter gave me a bit of problems, but I'm just happy it's finished. I had a whole other first draft that I just was not happy with. A few things stayed but the concept was pretty different. Any comments and likes are appreciated and I hope you enjoyed. Be on the look out for the last chapter coming out (Hopefully) soon!

Shout out to my editor, The Fan Without a Face! You can find their channel here!
https://www.fimfiction.net/user/224464/The+Fan+Without+a+Face