Rewrite: Sisterly Bonds

Chapters

A Truth Long Forgotten
A New Horizon
Orange Memories Part I
The Calm Before The Storm
Shared Origins
Orange Memories Part II

A Truth Long Forgotten

Chapter two
A Truth Long Forgotten

Original Author
Secret_Shadows

Written by
Enlistedpony & Secret_Shadows
Edited by avorin

‘The present and the past coexist, but the past shouldn't be in flashback.’

Scootaloo woke up the next morning a groggy feeling, probably from drugs she had been given at the hospital last night. She rolled over and let her eyes slide open letting the world come into focus.

‘Boy what a strange dream I had.’ She thought. But after trying to stretch she realized there was a familiar throbbing feeling almost like pain on her hip. ‘No way.. It could not of happened, could it?’ Her fears were soon answered when she looked down and saw the white bandage on her hip. Soon she heard the sound of clip clops coming from the other side of the door. The door knob started to turn.

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The doorknob was starting to turn and all the small filly could do was cower in fear she had made her choice.

‘I have to get out of this place!’ Quickly she snatched up a saddlebag and grabbed some of her most personal items, afterwards darting under the bed. The door slid open and a figure entered.

“Scootaloo, where are you hiding? Come out right now!” The stallion demanded. No answer. The filly remained quiet waiting for the chance. The stallion started searching around the room waking some of the other kids.

“What’s going on?” A filly asked.

“Nothing that concerns you! Now go back to sleep!” He barked at the filly. She rolled over and silently mocked the arrogant stallion.

“Now Scootaloo, where are you? Stop hiding, you are only making it harder on yourself the longer you keep doing this. Come out please, we are here to take care of you.” He said in an unconvincing tone. Still no answer. The stallion after a few moments of fruitless searching eventually ran out the door yelling.

“Call security, we have a missing foal!” Scootaloo was about to run, but a second figure one less intimidating entered and made their way to the bed. A mares voice asked.

“Scootaloo what are you doing under my bed?”

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“Scootaloo what are you doing under my bed?” Rainbow Dash leaned down to pull the cover up and expose the filly causing her to jump back a bit banging her head on the bottom of the bed.

“Ow! Thats smarts..” Rubbing her head afterwards. Rainbow helped the filly out from under the bed and then too her hooves snickering a bit.

“Wanting to go back to the hospital so soon squirt? I didn’t know you liked it there so much.” Rainbow was laughing afterward. The filly waving her off with a hoof. “Okay kid come on, lets get that bandage changed. Then how about some breakfast?”

“Sounds great! I am pretty hungry.” Although Scootaloo still felt a bit uneasy waking up in this new place she could at least be grateful that Rainbow Dash would not (hopefully) treat her like she had been treated before. The two walked out of Rainbow’s bedroom and made their way to the living room, the pegasus motioned for Scootaloo to get on the couch.

“Okay Scoots, I need to change your bandage so lie on your side and hold still.” Rainbow gently peeled the old bandage off leaving a slight red mark on the fillies skin from where the bandage had been applied. Rainbow Dash went over and grabbed the saddlebag then returned setting it besides the couch. She pulled out the paper and started to read it.

“Okay Scootaloo, it says here we need to let your wound get some air so relax for a bit. Rainbow went and got the rest of the supplies out and laid them on the coffee table. “Wow Scoot its like we got a mini hospital in here.” The pegasus committed.

“Guess they wanted to make sure you had enough for a week right?” Scootaloo replied looking around at the various medical items on the table. What was there amazed her, various bandages, medical tape, a few pairs of hoof gloves and what looked like a tube of antibiotic salve was strewn about.

“Yep, they don’t take any chances thats for sure. So after this you feel like taking a trip to Ponyville? I need to make a trip to the store to stock up on food, seeing as you’re going to be hanging around for the week. I think it would be a good idea don’t you?” Scootaloo nodded.

“I could teach you some flight lessons on the way there too.” Rainbow said slipping the glove on her hoof, she then reached for the salve.

“But didn’t the nurse say no flying for a few days until this gets a bit better?” Scootaloo said looking at her wound, watching what Rainbow was about to do.

“Yeah... she did, but you will just be on my back as we go to Ponyville, so I can at least show you some basic wing positions and body movement when we are heading to the market. Sound good?” Next Rainbow started to apply the medicine to the wound with gentle blotches, the filly flinched and gasped softly every time Rainbow Dash’s hoof came in contact with her wound. Afterwards the pegasus reached for a bandage and some medical tape.

“Oh cool! I guess that will be ok.” Scootaloo not taking her eyes off how the cyan mare was tending to her injured leg. Rainbow finished up and placed the medical supplies back into the bag and slid it under the table.

“Okay Scoots I’d figure we go get something to eat first in town then go shopping. Its Saturday, so the market doesn’t open for probably another couple hours, but I bet Applejack has got her stand already set up and I really like the Apple fritters her family makes so how about we get going?”

“Ohh, are those good? I never had them before.” Scootaloo’s mouth was watering at the notion of something yummy she had never tried before. Rainbow chuckled and helped the filly off the couch.

“Oh yes, they're absolutely delicious! Simply mouth waterin-” But she was cut off as Scootaloo yanked her by her tail hurrying for the door. She was really anxious to try some of the food Rainbow Dash was describing. “Ow! Geez kid you sure are impatient aren’t you?” Rainbow Dash afterward thought to herself ‘Heh.. She kinda reminds me of myself sometimes'

“Oh sorry Rainbow Dash. I guess I got a bit carried away.” The filly let go of her tail giving the pegasus an apologetic look. Rainbows mood lightened and she waved a hoof.

“Don’t worry about it kid. Anyway lets get going, we don’t want to keep Applejack or them yummy fritters waiting do we now? Hop on.” The filly climbed on the pegasus back accidently tugging on her wing while trying to climb up. “Ow! Geez.. Again Scoot? Its not a rope ya know? Take it easy or we’ll have to walk.”

“Oh heh, Sorry Rainbow Dash, I didn’t mean to.” She shifted a bit and made herself comfortable. Rainbow Dash ruffled her wings a bit to shake off the pain and made her way to the front door.

“Okay squirt, Hang on because The Rainbow Dash Express is leaving station! Next stop, Ponyville and Applejack’s stand.” She opened the door took a running start and leaped into the sky. The two now making their way to Ponyville.

****

Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo were flying towards Ponyville enjoying the morning sky. It was a cool morning the sun now rising from the east giving a nice morning glow.

“Soo.. whatcha gonna teach me Dash?” Scootaloo asked enjoying the morning air whipping at her face. She let her forelegs extend outwards to catch more of the air as they flew towards Ponyville.

“Well how about banking, climbing and descending?

“Sounds good, lay it on me.” She said absentmindedly. Scootaloo had now let her wings flare out to let the rushing air flow through them it was a great feeling. She was smiling, excited to be flying even though she was not actually doing it herself. Rainbow looked back noticing the filly was enjoying her flight and smiled, that unknown feeling starting to creep back into her again. She decided to allow the filly to enjoy her flight a bit longer, banking off in a circle pattern around Ponyville.

Flying from left to right in zigzagging patterns tilting, climbing and descending Rainbow Dash was starting to enjoy the flight herself. Scootaloo taking mental notes at how the cyan flyers wings were angling themselves and her body movement when Rainbow Dash made a change in direction. Banking back when diving throwing her hooves forward. Tilting to one side to turn, while curling one foreleg up keeping the other extended while turning her head in the new direction. Flaring out to come to a glide, letting her legs rest and finally flapping when climbing. Pushing her forelegs back out in front of her again.

“Getting all of this kid? By the way, we are nearing Ponyville. I think I can smell those yummy fritters now.” Scootaloo’s instantly broke her trance her mouth starting to water and her tummy growled making the pegasus shudder at the feeling.

“Dang kid heh, save some for me when we land ok?” She chuckled. “Oh look, here we are! Hiya Applejack!” Rainbow waved. The farm pony responding with a similar warm greeting.

“Howdy! Good morning ya’ll! What brings you two down ta mah stand this early? Ah never fancied you fer gettin up so early Rainbow Dash.” She tipped her hat to the two standing in front of her stand.

Rainbow waved her friend off with a hoof. “Yeah.. Its early for me, but the little squirt here is hungry, and I need to go to the market to get some food. Seeing as I need to take care of this little crash magnet here for the next week.” Scootaloo gave the pegasus’s shoulder a shove and then huffed rolling her eyes.

“Pfft whatever Dash, I recall the doctors at the hospital snickering at your return yesterday.” The filly said now eyeing the tasty morsels in front of here. They smelled so good! It was making her mouth water.

“Ha you’re a funny filly now aren’t you? I’ll remember that.” She placed a hoof to her belly rubbing it, and then made a devilish grin and pointed to scootaloo. The orange filly getting a bit nervous her eyes darting back and forth, she laughed hesitantly Applejack raising an eyebrow at the exchange between the two pegasus’s

“Heh.. soo how about those fritters Rainbow Dash?” The filly still acting a bit nervous at the cyan mares unchanged expression.

“Hmm?” Rainbow demeanor dropped at the comment. “Ohh yea thats right. We came to get some food off ya Applejack. What’s on the menu this morning?” Rainbow herself letting her eyes look over the tasty food displayed in front of her.

“Well whatcha fixin ta be hungry fer? Ah gots Apple pie, Apple cakes, Caramel apples..” Applejack seeing the two pegasi’s mouths watering at a specific item she chuckled ‘Ah guess these two have already figured what they want.’

“Well it seems ya’ll two have already figured out what ya want.”

“Yep, you guessed right! Lay a few on us!.” Rainbow Dash plopped a few bits down on the stand. Applejack laughed and grabbed a few fritters then hoofing them off to the eagerly waiting duo.

“Here ya go, enjoy!” Applejack was about to return to her stand, but she caught a glimpse of the small fillies leg before the two had a chance to leave. “What in tarnation happened ta yer leg Scootaloo!?” She pointed to the small fillies bandage and looked at her shocked.

The two looked back, Dash giving a bit of an embarrassed look “Heh well you see...” The small filly butted in.

“Rainbow Dash was showing me the basics of flying it was awesome!” Scootaloo smiled at Dash. “But I got a bit carried away and flew up to high.” She then looked down frowning. “I..I kinda got tired and fell, and I landed on a rock cutting my leg..” She shed a tear looking at Dash. “B-but Rainbow Dash was quick to get me to a hospital so I could get patched up.” Dash placed a hoof to her shoulder.

“Yep,” She smiled at the filly. “Dash to the rescue!” She said with a little bit of pride. “This filly is a tough one. I have to admit, even during the operation of when the doctor was stitching her up, and I was looking away cringing at the site.. she was watching with not a bit of fear in her. Way to go squirt!” Rainbow signaled Scootaloo to raise her hoof and she gave her a hoof bump.

“Heh.. Thanks Rainbow Dash,” Scootaloo rubbed the back of her neck with her hoof a small smile tugging her lips. “Maybe next time, you will be able to manage to watch?” She giggled at that. Dash just giving the filly a mock look.

“Heh, yeah.. Maybe I will.” Giving the filly a playful shove.

Applejack during this whole conversation sat and stared at the two smiling. “Seems ya’ll two are becoming pretty good friends throughout this heh.” The two pegasus looking at each other. They both answered.

“Yeah.. I guess you’re right.”

“Darn tootin Ah’m right! Now, what are ya’ll two planning fer the rest of the day might Ah ask of ya.”

“Well, since I need to take care of this kid here, I need to do some shopping.”

“Going ta the market Ah take it?”

“Yep, it should be open by now soo.. Thanks for the fritters we’ll see you later.” The two pegasus’s started to turn for the market, but the farm mare stopped them.

“Hay, Ah gots an idea. Why don’t Ah come with ya’ll two? Ah could bring Applebloom too, seeing as how its Saturday she donna have school, Ah’d bet she would love ta hangout with her filly friend here.” Said Applejack as she started to close up her stand.

“Actually.. Thats not a bad idea.” Dash said. “I was kinda drawing a blank on what to get.” Dash looking a bit nervous. “See funny thing is well.. I kinda don’t know what to get. I never had to care for another pony cept myself, so it was easy to just snatch some apples from you Applejack,” The farm pony putting on a smug face at the comment. “Or eat out somewhere, but this.. well.. This is Rainbow Dash we are talking about ya know?” Rainbow was scuffing the ground with her hoof.

“Ah know sugarcube, Ah understand” She placed a hoof on the pegasus’s shoulder. “So Scootaloo, how does it sound ta ya? Ah bet Applebloom would enjoy the company seein as how she’s stuck at home at the moment, what say you?

“Oh that sounds great! I could tell Applebloom all about my stay at the hospital! I wonder if she wants to hear the details though..” The filly putting a hoof to her chin in thought. “Oh well guess only one way to find out right?” The two mares nodded. Applejack now finished packing up her cart she headed off to Sweet Apple Acres.

“Ah’ll be right back ya’ll two. Ah needs ta drop this stand off and pick up mah sister. See ya’ll in a bit!” With that the country pony galloped off to her home. She returned a few minutes later with Applebloom in tow.

“Howdy Scootaloo how are ya’ll doin!” The yellow filly cringed at the site of Scootaloo’s bandage. “ Ouch! What happened ta ya? That thar bandage looks a might painful.”

“Naa.. Its alright Applebloom, just a little hard to walk thats about it, but I take my time. Hey, you want to know how I got this injury? It was pretty cool how the doctor sewed me up, I even got to watch!" Apple Bloom raised a questioning eyebrow at the orange pegasus.

“Oh wow would Ah!” The country filly was excited to hear the tale Scootaloo was about to lay on her.

“Oh okay, well.. Here goes.” Scootaloo began to tell her story. Her and Applebloom walking ahead leaving Dash and Applejack to talk in peace.

“Okay Rainbow Dash, spill it. How come YOU are taking care of Scootaloo? An injury like that ya’ll should really tell her parents about it.” The farm pony thinking to herself for a moment. “Umm.. Who are her parents? “Rainbow just looked at Applejack for a moment.

“Well.. I don’t know, and neither does she,” Applejack taken back for a moment. “And the real kicker is she’s been living in that run down treehouse outside your farm.”

“What!? How long had she been stayin thar?”

“She didn’t say, but I would figure at least a year or so maybe more. She's a crafty one at avoiding being noticed I’ll say.”

“Well we should at least get in touch with Twilight, Ah gather she might be able ta find out what in tarnation is going on.”

“Yeah, maybe later.. for now, lets get going to the market. Them fillies are gonna beat us if we don’t get moving slowpoke.” Dash giggled at the country pony then took off towards the market.

“Oh no you don’t! Nopony calls me a slowpoke!” Applejack took off in hot pursuit of the cyan pegasus. A few moments later the group arrived at the market entrance.

****
Arriving at the front door of the market the Rainbow Dash and Applejack stopped to take a breath.

“Heh..Phew! You almost caught me there Applejack!” Dash said trying to catch her breath.

“Ah woulda caught ya if ya dun didn’t cheat again usin them thar wings again. Don’t ya ever play fair?” Giving Dash a playful shove.

“Meh.. I don’t remember you calling out rules before we took off. Besides, maybe I would've not used them if you didn’t try to buck down every tree in my way..” Dash returning the shove.

“What!? Ah never... Them thar trees was looking mighty weak so Ah figured Ah would buck them outta ya’ll way thats all” But unfortunately Applejack being a honest pony as she is, Dash could easily see through her lie.

Dash rolled her eyes. “Oh yeah.. Sure, sure, just happens I am able to fly over them right?” Rainbow said with a smug look on her face.

“Well yeah, thats it. Ah guess...ah shoot, how do other ponies manage ta do this, dagnabit ya got me.” She let out a breath. “Ah’m sorry. Ah guess mah competitiveness got the best of me again.” She looked away embarrassed.

Dash waved her off. “Meh, don’t worry about it Applejack. Heh, I guess me taunting you most of the time wasn’t helping.” It was Dash’s turn to look away embarrassed now.

Applejack smiled. “It’s ok sugarcube. How’s about at the next Running of the Leaves we give it another go? Sound good?”

“Sounds like a plan! But, you better be ready cuz I am not gonna hold back!” She proclaimed.

“Okay then. Now lets get back ta what we had originally planned on doing shall we? Applejack made her way for the door. “Them fillies must be inside waiting for us, lets head on in.” Dash following behind. Once they made it inside Applebloom and Scootaloo were waiting at a table. Scootaloo was finishing up her trip to the hospital.

“And then he stuck the needle into my leg one last time and tugged it closing the cut. It felt kinda weird after he had numbed it up. Like I could feel the needle going in and the suture pulling on my skin, but no pain ya know?” Appleblooms face was going a little green by now.

“Yeesh! Ah can’t believe ya could keep a straight face through all of that Scootaloo, Ah woulda probably tossed mah hay by then. Ah feel Ah got enough of the,” She cringed. “Juicy details, let’s talk about somethin else okay?” Just then Applejack and Rainbow Dash had walked up. “Oh hey ya’ll what took ya two so long?” Applebloom got up to stretch and walked over to her sister.

“Me and Dash had ta have a little talk thats all. Grown up stuff. So what say we go look fer somethin yummy ta eat?”

“Ohh sounds good! Are ya ready ta go Scootaloo? Cuz Ah know Ah am.”

“Oh yeah! But if its ok with you two I think I’ll hang with Rainbow here if thats ok with you Dash.” The orange filly walked up to the pegasus.”

“Sure squirt, fine with me. So.. Applejack, Where do we begin?” The group was slowly making their way down one of the isles looking at the food displayed.

“Well, lets head over ta the flower section ya’ll. Ah’m sure there is somethin that even ya’ll are capable of fixin up right? The country mare walked over to a section containing some flowers. Sunflowers, tulips, and some other various flowers were strewn about. Applejack picked up some dandelions and showed them to Rainbow Dash.

“What about these Dash? They are pretty good and even you could manage ta make sandwiches of these.” The pegasus walked over and took the flowers and examined them...

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“Can you get the dandelions Rainbow?” Skylight was making Rainbow and herself lunch.

“Ok Mommy!” Rainbow jumped into the air, her basic flying allowing her to hover over to the cabinet containing the dandelions. It was a small kitchen, just the basics. A sink, a small table with three chairs, and an oven like device.

“Eventually you are going to need to learn how to make these on your own Dash.” Skylight looked over at her daughter, who was fumbling with the door on the cabinet.

“But you make them really good, I don’t think I could make them like you can.” As she said that the cabinet door flew open and several boxes of food fell onto her head. Luckily it was mostly fruits and it didn’t make a mess, accept for the tomato that landed on Rainbow’s face.

“Ah! Stupid Tomato!” Rainbow swiped it off her face onto the floor leaving a large red stain.

“Are you okay?” Skylight asked as she walked over to her daughter. She licked the end of her wing and then used it to wipe the tomato residue off of Rainbow’s face.

She helped Rainbow into a chair and patted her on her head.

“Eventually” Skylight leaned down to clean up the mess. “You’re going to have to be more responsible, with your little sister on the way, I won’t be able to do a lot.”

“I can be res-res-respo” she sounded out the word “Res-pon-si-ble” Confident that she now knew the word she tried to say it. “I can be Responissible.”

Skylight smiled at her daughter’s ability to make any word sound cute “Responsible”

“Yeah! I can be Responable!”

“Ok miss responsible, can you try to get me the dandelions again; And not make a mess this time?” Skylight teased.

Rainbow pouted for a moment at her mothers teasing, but her mood quickly changed into that of obedience.

“Yeah! I can! And in ten seconds flat!” Rainbow flew up into the air and over to the cabinet, crashing into it. As she found herself in the cabinet, she crawled her way through it to find the dandelions. At last she found what she was looking for, and after a moment of Skylight only seeing a Rainbow tail sticking out of the cabinet, a hoof holding a box of dandelions appeared.

“Thank you, you did a good job Rainbow.” Skylight smiled, though Rainbow couldn’t see it.

Skylight continued to fix a sandwich when she noticed Rainbow trying to wiggle her way out of the cabinet, only seeing the bottom half of Rainbow wiggling back and forth trying to free herself. Skylight stopped making the sandwich and watched in amusement as her daughter continued with her antics.

“Need some help?”

Rainbow blushed a bit, luckily her mother could not see her face.

“No! I can get out! Just Watch!” Rainbow said, she was being a bit more confident than she should have been.

After a few more moments of wiggling, she stopped.

“On second thought, I would like help, yes please.”

Skylight chuckled before reaching her forehooves up and pulling Rainbow. Suddenly Rainbow flew backwards out of the cabinet almost knocking over her mother. Skylight looked down into her hooves to see Rainbow, as if she was a foal being carried.

“You look so adorable, this reminds me of when you were a foal and I carried you.” Skylight teased.

Rainbow blushed profusely as she tried to wiggle her way out of her mother's grip, to no avail.

“Why don’t we finish lunch ok?”

“Can you put me down, please?”

“Aw, but my little dashie wouldn’t want to get stuck again?” Skylight teased as she used her free hoof to prepare the sandwich.

“Uh, Rainbow, yer getting awfully close to that stand.”

“What mommy?”

“I didn’t say anything dear”

“Who’s mommy? Rainbow, yer gonna-”

”-Crash” Applejack was too late. Rainbow absentmindedly dove head first into the stand sending the products all over the place. She tried to free herself wiggling and pushing, but she had wedged herself in pretty good.

“A little help please?” Applejack snickered at the pegasus and walked up to her.

“Heh sure thing Dash give me a sec Ah’ll getcha out.” Applejack grabbed a hold of her tail and started to pull the trapped mare out of the stand. Tugging a little too hard Rainbow Dash popped out lost her balance and toppled backwards onto the country pony sending both of them into the stand on the opposite side of the isle. The two were covered in the various vegetables displayed. The two fillies now laughing at the two.

“What’s so funny?” Dash trying to get back up she slipped on a piece of lettuce and plopped back on her rump letting out a yelp “Ow!” Scootaloo walking over to the fallen mare,

“Haha! Oh you look soo funny Rainbow Dash, Here, let me help you up.” The filly extended a hoof to help Dash to her hooves. Next she helped clean the all the vegetables off her. “You smell like a garden Dash.” She laughed.

“Oh haha, you’re a real joker aren’t you? She rolled her eyes at the comment. “Come on Applejack time to get out of the garden.” She walked over to the farm pony resting in the lettuce.

“Oh look who the joker is now! Yer tryin ta make fun of me too?” Dash reaching forward to help her out.

“Pfft.. Whatever. Anyway... What’s next on the list of stuff I’ll need?” Returning to their previous plan. The group moved forward collecting some dandelions. Next they got some bread, lettuce and other various toppings moving on to the seafood section. Dash walked over to the counter and looked at the various products displayed behind the glass. She got a few weird looks from her friends. Scootaloo walked up and asked.

“Do you really like to eat this stuff? I’ve heard of ponies eating fish, but I never really tasted the stuff myself.” She looked at the fish laid behind the counter oddly enough her mouth was starting to water at the smell. “Smells good though.” Dash raised an eyebrow at the filly.

“Would you like to try it Scootaloo? The filly nodded nervously.

“Okay I’ll try some.” She nervously waited.

“Okay. Excuse me, is anypony back there? We want to try something.” The pony, a unicorn behind the counter walked up smelling like fish he placed his hooves on the counter.

“What can I do for you two?”

“This filly here wants to try some tuna, Can she have a sample?”

“Oh sure just give me a second to slice you a piece.” He went and grabbed a serrated knife with his magic setting it down on a cutting board; he walked back to the counter.

“Okay which one would you two like to try?” The two looking over the various fish displayed, they settled on a tasty looking piece of tuna.

“That one please.” Rainbow asked, pointing to the slabs of tuna neatly stacked behind the glass.

“Sure thing give me a second.” The unicorn went over to the selected piece of fish and sliced a tiny section off with the knife. He then passed the slice over to the waiting two. “Here you go let me know if you need anything else okay?” He waited at the counter for their next order.

“Here ya go Scoots, let me know what you think of it.” Hoofing the piece off to the filly. Scootaloo hesitated for a second then took a bite of it chewing on it for a bit to get a good taste of the fish. She felt like gagging the texture was weird unlike anything she had ate before. This was a pretty new feeling for the filly, eating something that was once alive and had a heartbeat of its own. Her mind was screaming for her to stop, but oddly though she continued to chew on the fish savoring in the taste; it was actually pretty tasty once she got over the whole its a peice of meat dilemma.

“Hey.. This is not half bad actually! So.. What’s it taste like to you?”

“Well.. Kinda like chicken I should say.”

“CHICKEN!?” The group spat out shocked looks abound.

“You ate chicken before Dash?” Applejack was taken back at this. “Ah woulda never took you ta taken a fancy ta eating meat.

“Well I did hang around Gilda for some time ya know.. She kinda asked me to try this stuff one time, never really told me what it was. Not that I liked it. I actually got sick after trying it. We kinda fell apart after that.”

“Dash, you have to try this.” Gilda said as Rainbow entered their dorm room. It was a shared dorm room at flight camp.

“Uh, what exactly is it?” Rainbow eyed it. It was a white form covered in what seemed like bread crumbs.

“Just try it, you’ll like it.” Gilda held a piece of it in her claw and gave it to dash.

Rainbow stepped back a bit unsure of what to do.

“Don’t tell me you’re going to start being lame on me Dash.”

“I’m not lame! I just, it looks like-”

“Eat it then! or are you lame like the rest of these ponies?”

Rainbow stood there for a few moments. She knew she recognized what Gilda was holding, but she couldn’t quite remember what it was. Something in her mind was saying no, but if Gilda, her best friend was eating it, then it couldn’t be too bad.

Rainbow picked up the food in her hoof and stared at it.

“What are you waiting for? Eat it!”

“O-ok, here goes.” Rainbow lifted the food into her mouth and started to chew it. It was warm, she sort of liked the taste but hated the texture but continued to chew it to appease Gilda.

“Well?”

Rainbow swallowed, she nearly gagged on the food traveling down her throat.

“It tasted, ok I guess, but the rest of it was horrible, what was it anyway?”

“Chicken.”

Rainbow’s eyes went wide, she went as far as to eat fish, but chicken, that was different. Chicken was unheard of for a pony to eat in the first place, and for good reason to. Her stomach started to get upset and her face flushed.

“I, I’m a bit dizzy...” Rainbow said as she started to fall over, her stomach was hurting and she felt the food protest in her throat.

“I-I, I need the bathroom!” Rainbow shouted as she ran past Gilda into their dorms bathroom to get sick.

“So.. Scootaloo how did you like it?" Rainbow was wondering if her revealing she thought fish tasting like chicken would stain Scootaloo’s opinion.

“I actually like it, and I would like to try some more, but maybe cooked next time?"

“Oh yeah no problem kid. Gilda showed me some tasty ways to cook fish. I think you would like it, I know I did.” Rainbow breathed a sigh of relief. She was also happy some other pony had a taste for fish, it made her feel more like she wasn’t alone.

“Ya’ll two sure are weird, Ah never saw a pony that liked ta eat meat how does it taste? What’s it feel like when ya chew on it?” Applebloom was interested to hear Scootaloo’s response.

“Well kinda gammy actually, with a kinda sweet taste I would say. I can’t comment on the whole chicken thing that's Rainbows feeling towards it, but I like it.”

“Hey now! I was only comparing the taste that's all. I never liked chicken it was disgusting, and made me sick almost instantly after I ate it. Why did you want to try some Applebloom?”

“Well Ah dunno..” She looked over to her sister for some guidance.

Applejack gave the yellow filly a look of approval and nodded “Go ahead Applebloom, try it if you like too, Ah won’t tell ya what ta eat or not ta eat.” Applebloom smiled.

“Thanks sis, Ah think Ah would like ta try it. Ah just wanted ta know if you were alright with it first. Ah wasn’t sure if you would be upset or not.” Applebloom scuffed the ground looking away coyly.

“Now why would Ah say that? You are free ta try what ya want, so long as ya donna try anything stupid. Then Ah’ll step in and say something.” She said ruffling the yellow fillies mane. “Now get over there and go try it. Let me know what it tastes like ok?”

“Okay.” she walked over to Dash. “Can you get a piece for me to try?”

“Sure thing kid. Excuse me sir, can we have another piece to try?”

“No problem, same fish?” He walked back to the piece of tuna he had previously cut.

“Yes sir that will be fine.” The unicorn sliced another piece of the tuna and handed it off to the pegasus. “Here ya go Applebloom tell us what you think.” She hoofed the piece to the yellow filly. Applebloom took it and stared at it for a moment it felt weird like nothing she had ever felt before her confidence left her in an instant. Applejack walked up to her nervous sister sensing her reluctance at trying the fish she spoke.

“Hey there Applebloom how about you and me both try it at the same time? She took the slice of fish and tore it in half handing a piece back to Applebloom “Ah’ll count to three and then we take a bite okay?" Applebloom nodded nervously.

“Okay sis Ah’m ready when you are. She took the piece of fish waiting for the countdown to begin.

“One...” Applejack looked at Applebloom and smiled “Two...” Applebloom took in a breath letting it out, “Three..” simultaneously the two sisters took a bite of the fish, chewing on it for a moment the two almost again simultaneously spit the fish out making gagging sounds.

“Bleh! That was sooo nasty! Ahh! Ah can’t get the taste outta mah mouth. Quick! Get me an apple! Ah need to get this putrid taste outta mah mouth!” Applebloom was stroking her tongue trying to get the taste off it. At the same time Applejack too was gagging over the food she had just tried.

“Gah! Ah’m gonna go get some apples that taste..” She shuddered. “How do you two find it enjoyable? Come on Applebloom, the fruit section is over there.” She pointed to the fruit aisle. “Let’s go get some apples to kill off this rancid taste in our mouths. We’ll catch up with you two in a little bit okay?” The two pegasus’s were giggling at to farm ponies.

“Okay see you in a bit.” Dash turned back to the counter and ordered some tuna, flounder and some cod, figuring Scootaloo would like to try this stuff. Her assumptions were confirmed when the orange filly looked at the packaged fish with her mouth watering. “Well what’s next you think? We need to get some herbs, spices and sauce for the fish, because it tastes so much better when you have some good topping for it. Also, I think we can do a bit more flight practice after we are done here, as long as we only try some basic wing movement and possibly some minor hovering it should be okay. How does that sound?”

“Oh, that sounds awesome! I can’t wait! But where are we going to practice at?” She was starting to get nervous. “I don’t really want to practice on the ground again. Not after what happened last time.”

“Hmm? Oh.. No, no, I’ll take us to my cloud home. The clouds will be nice and soft, and you’re not going to be lifting off well.. not more than a few hoof’s anyway, so you’ll be fine.”

Scootaloo let out a sigh of relief. “Whew.. Thats a load off my mind, so what else do we need from here?”

“Well I lets catch up with them two country ponies shall we? I want to pick up some apples anyway, and its better this way too. Not getting yelled at by Applejack for taking hers heh.” The two pegasus’s made their way over to the fruit section. upon arriving they spotted Applejack and Applebloom scarfing down a couple apples.

“Ahh.. Much better,” Applejack was relieved, the fish taste was gone. “Good thing Ah didn’t make it to swallowing it, Ah woulda just puked it back up. Are you feeling better now Applebloom?” The filly had just finished her apple.

“Yeah, Ah feel so much better.. Pony, that taste was soo nasty! Ah can’t believe a pony could actually like it.” Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo walking just as Applebloom had finished what she had said.

“Its an acquired taste I guess.. You either like it, or hate it. Isn’t that right Scoot?” She nodded.

“Yup and I like it. So, me and Dash are gonna grab a few apples and then take off. Shes gonna show me some more flight positions and maybe a little hovering. See you around Applebloom?”

“Yeah sure, Ah’ll see ya later.”

“Ya’ll be careful now Scootaloo, Ah don’t want to hear ya went back into the hospital again so soon,” She gave Dash a stern look. “”Isn’t that right now, Dash?”

“Yeah, yeah.. I’ll be careful, don’t you worry.” She said rolling her eyes at the farm pony. “I’ll make sure this filly doesn’t get hurt again I promise...I’ll never let you get hurt again Scootaloo, Happy?”

“Yeah, that will be fine. Well.. We’ll see ya’ll later okay?” The turned to leave but Applejack remembered something she wanted to tell Dash. “Ah almost forgot Dash, tomorrow we need to go see Twilight about what we talked about earlier got it?”

Rainbow Dash got a little nervous over the planned meeting the two had agreed upon tomorrow. She had would've forgotten if Applejack had not just reminded her about it. “Y-yeah.. I’ll be there don’t worry.” She said fidgeting around nervously. “ You ready to go squirt?”

Scootaloo was just finishing her goodbyes to Applebloom, reminding her about the upcoming meeting, and what they could possible work on next to get their cutie marks. “Huh? Oh.. Yeah, I’m ready Rainbow Dash. Lets get going.” Dash laid down to allow the orange filly an easier time getting on using her wing to help Scootaloo get comfortable. Once she was all settled Rainbow Dash stood back up and made her way to the exit.

“Okay kid, I need to stop at Twilight Sparkle’s library for a moment. I need to have a little talk with her, then its off to my house for some flight practice okay?” The duo exited the market saddle bag full of goodies and all, they took off towards Ponyville library to meet with Twilight.

****

Landing at the library Dash sat down and let Scootaloo slide off her back, the two pegasus’s walked up to the library door and Rainbow Dash knocked.

“What do you need to talk with Twilight about Dash?”

“Oh just need to have a quick chat with her about what me and Applejack were talking about earlier thats all.” Dash knocked on the door again. “Geez Twilight put the dang book down for a second and answer your door already.” Dash was getting a bit impatient tapping her hoof on the ground. A few minutes later the two heard a voice from behind the door.

“I’m coming!” The knob turned and the door swung open.” Hey, what’s up Dash!” Spike said waving to Rainbow. “Oh... Didn’t see you brought company too. Hello Scootaloo.” He waved to the orange filly and beckoned the two in. “Come on in you two what’s the occasion?”

“I need to talk with Twilight for a sec is she here?” Spike nodded.

“Yeah, shes over in the reading room caught up in something again...” He chuckled.

“Okay well.. I’ll just go in and say hi, mind waiting here with Spike Scootaloo? I need to speak with Twilight in private, grown up stuff and all, wait here I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

“But Rainbow, I am a big pony, I can be all grown up and stuff.” She stomped her hoof and huffed.

“Scootaloo this is, kinda private.”

“Oh ok, thats fine I’ll hang out with spike here. Ohh.. Hey Spike, want to hear about my recent hospital trip? Its graphic with blood and stuff, even Dash herself was cringing at the sight hehe.”

Rainbow Dash turned for a sec after hearing the filly teasingly mock her. “Oh haha, being that funny filly again are we?” Dash gave Scootaloo that mischievous look she knew all too well. “Looks like somepony has a special treat coming to them later on.” Said Dash in a sing song tone. She made her way off to Twilight giggling. Scootaloo nervously laughed it off.

“O-okay.. heh, heh, I can’t wait.” She twitched when Dash walked out of the room giggling. “I guess..” Spike looked at the filly raising an eyebrow at the exchange.

“What was that all about? Why are you all fidgety all of a sudden?” He crossed his arms in question, looking back to where Dash had walked off to.

“Heh.. Its nothing,” She swallowed the lump in her throat. “I hope.” The filly felt like she had butterflies in her stomach, she had a feeling she knew what was in store for her at some point.

Spike shrugged off the nervous reply and returned his focus to the filly. “So you gonna tell me how that happened?” Pointing to the bandage on the fillies hip.

“Hmm? Oh.. Sure thing, but can I get something to drink please? I am a little thirsty.”

“Sure do, follow me. Do you like tea? I was brewing some for myself and Twilight.” Spike waved for the filly to follow him into the kitchen, a sweet smell of lemony tea was coming from it.

“Ohh smells good! What kind is it?” She asked following the dragon into the kitchen.

“Lemon, with a bit of honey mixed in to give a taste of sweetness. I think you’ll like it.” He handed her a cup of the sweet smelling tea, she took in a smell of it and smiled, taking a sip of it. “Twilight likes herbal, but I like mine to have a bit of a tart taste, adding the honey was for Twilight, she’s likes her tea to have a sweet taste to it. So, let’s hear how you got that injury on your leg”

Taking another sip of the tea Scootaloo sat the cup down on the table and looked at Spike “MMMmm.. Thats good stuff! Anyway.. Where to begin.. Oh, right, well first...” She began to tell her story to Spike, he sat at the table with the filly his eyes wide at the tale being told to him.

****

When Rainbow Dash walked into the reading room what she saw kinda reminded her of her own place. Books strewn about, paper blowing around in the breeze, some crumpled up littering the floor. It was a mess. Twilight was at her desk, her face glued to a book, her horn glowing a quill was vigorously scribbling something onto a piece of paper. Dash snuck up on the unknowing unicorn and tapped her on the shoulder. “BOO!” Twilight screamed, thrown off guard she sliced the paper with the quill, jumping up like a scared filly then falling on her back afterwards.

Dash fell over laughing at the scene. “Haha! I got you Twi!” The unicorn rolled over to see the pegasus laughing at her. She stood back up and stomped over to Dash, leaned down to her face.

“That was NOT funny Rainbow Dash! I was trying to finish my report and you made me mess it all up! Now its gonna take me all night to re-organize this mess.” She looked around at the books and paper lying about and let out a breath. “What did you want? Besides trying to see if I could hit the ceiling.

Dash let herself to her hooves, a little more timid than before. Twilight raising an eyebrow at the change of the pegasus’s demeanor. “Well I..,” She tried to think of what to say. “Got a problem that I think only you can help with.”

“Oh?” The unicorns ears perked up. “What problem? I should have a book around here somewhere that can help.” She started to search through her books tossing them to and fro, Dash nearly getting hit by some as Twilight tossed the unwanted ones away.

“Twilight how can you help if you don’t first let me tell you what the problem is.. Whoa!” Dash ducking a book tossed right at her face. “What the hay Twilight, you nearly hit me with that one!”

The unicorn looked over to a now rather upset Rainbow Dash, she looked away bashfully. “S-sorry Rainbow Dash I guess I kinda get carried away sometimes.” She said scuffing the floor.

“Meh, don’t worry about it Twi, I forgive you. But, you need to be less egghead sometimes anyway,” Dash letting out a breath. “ About my problem, it’s about Scootaloo.”

“What about her? Did she get into trouble? Or worst, did she get hurt?” Twilight starting to get a bit upset.

“What? No! Shes fine. Well... almost fine I should say.”

Twilight was getting confused now. “I don’t understand Rainbow Dash, stop beating around the bush and just tell me already!”

“Fine. She got hurt the other day..” Twilight cut her off

“WHAT!? Is she ok? Do her parents know? How did she get hurt?” Twilight was right up in Dash’s face now. The pegasus took a step back getting away from the unicorn.

“First, shes fine.” Twilight eased off and let out a sigh of relief. “Second well.. I don’t know.” Twilight again cutting her off.

“You don’t know? What is that supposed to mean?

“It means exactly what I just said!” She retorted. “Third, It was kinda my fault..” Again Twilight butting in.

“Your fault!? What the hay Rainbow? Don’t you ever try to you know.. BE CAREFUL?

“No Twilight, I purposely injured a little filly, of course I’m careful.” Dash said rolling her eyes. “Besides, it was not directly all my fault, Scoot wasnt paying attention to how high she was flying.”

“That’s no excuse Dash, you had her flying when you darn well know she is only a beginner. You really need to learn some responsibility and patience, shes only a filly.”

“Well, I, uh, she wanted to...You know, and I was like...well uh, yeah.” Dash rubbed her forehoof behind her neck. Knowing she had just lost this argument.

“Ok Dash, I really feel we need to talk to Scootaloo’s parents, they need to know.”

“That’s the thing I...,” Rainbow stopped herself for a moment thinking about what she was about to say. “I don’t think Scootaloo has any parents...” Twilight was just totally blown away at the comment she just heard, she went and sat down on her couch trying to wrap her mind around what the pegasus had just said.

“H-how can you be so sure? Did you ever try to find them? I am sure I can find them somehow.”

“Well first, Scootaloo was really timid when I asked about her parents. She has not even told me anything. Second, I had to cover for her in the hospital because the nurse needed contact information for a parent or guardian, and third, she revealed to me she was living in that run down treehouse on Applejack’s orchard.” Twilight looked up when that was mentioned.

“Does Applejack know about that? or any of this?”

“Only what I have told her, and she was shocked at what I had said too.”

“Well Rainbow I think we need to have a meeting. I’ll invite all the girls over and we can discuss what is going to happen with Scootaloo. Sound good?” Rainbow nodded.

“Yes that sounds good, but tomorrow ok? I promised the squirt I’d show her a few more things tonight, and far be it from me being called a liar.”

“O-okay Dash, but you be careful okay? She is just a filly, take it really slow and BE CAREFUL, understand?” Dash nodded again waving the unicorn off with a hoof.

“Yeah.. Yeah, I understand Twilight, I’ll be extra careful..never again will it happen Scootaloo, well.. I should go, need to get the squirt up to my home to change her bandage, and I want to show her a few things before it gets dark. I’ll talk to you later ok Twilight?” The unicorn nodded and walked up Dash.

“Sounds good! Here, let me walk you two out, I want to say goodbye to Scootaloo.” Twilight motioned for Dash to follow her.

“Okay Twilight, I left Scoot with Spike, I believe they went to the kitchen after I came to see you.” Dash said as the two made their way out of the reading room and headed towards the kitchen. Scootaloo was just finishing up her tale when The two mare’s entered the kitchen.

“So.. Spike, What do you think?” She took the last sip of her tea and sat the cup down waiting for the dragon to reply. Spike was trying to process the information he sat there for a moment looking at the filly.

“Wow Scootaloo, That is one wild ride you had yesterday. Good thing Dash was there or you could of been in real trouble.” Just then The two mares walked up behind Scootaloo and Spike, The filly not yet noticing them. Spike glanced over at the two

“Yeah Spike, thank Celestia Rainbow Dash was there. I really cannot thank her enough for getting me to the hospital, and really being there for me afterwards,” The filly shed a tear, but quickly wiped it away with a hoof trying to regain her composure. “Nopony has ever done that for me. I just wish there was someway I could repay her for being so nice to me.” Rainbow looked away blushing at what the filly had said, that familiar unknown feeling creeping back into her chest again. Twilight looked away from the group and scuffed the floor a bit, upon hearing what the filly had said, she now felt a little bad for berating Dash as much as she had a few moments earlier.

She turned to look at the now bashful looking pegasus, she placed a hoof on her shoulder and whispered in her ear. “Sorry for yelling at you as much as I did Rainbow Dash, I didn’t know she felt you meant this much to her.” Dash looked up to Twilight her face flushed eyes a bit misty.

“I..I didn’t think so either...” She smiled and walked over to Scootaloo and placed a hoof on her shoulder causing the filly to spin her head around to see a smiling Rainbow Dash.

“Oh, Hiya Rainbow Dash, I didn’t hear you come in, I was just finishing up my story with spike.” Dash looked at Scoot then ruffled her mane.

“I know squirt, I heard.” She felt like hugging the filly right now, but maintained her composure and just gave the filly a playful shove. “Come on kid, we need to get going. I need to change your bandage, and afterwards show ya some things. You ready to go?” The filly nodded.

“Yes Rainbow Dash, I’m ready to go. See ya later Spike, talk to you again soon?”

“Sure Scootaloo, I’ll see you again take care of yourself.” Spike collected the cups and walked over to the sink and placed them in it. “I need to clean up this mess so talk to you later.”

Twilight walked over to Scootaloo placing a hoof on her shoulder she smiled at her. “You take care of yourself now got it?” The filly nodded. “I don’t want to hear you went back in the hospital again.” She nodded to Dash getting a roll of her eyes in return. “Don’t try anything too advanced or dangerous, you are just a filly okay? No need to try anything stupid or over your head, I’ll see you tomorrow.” The filly raising an eyebrow at that comment.

“Tomorrow? What’s going on tomorrow?” She looked at the unicorn in question.

“Rainbow Dash and you are going to come visit me tomorrow, Dash needs to talk over some stuff with me and the girls. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle should be her too, so you can go play while we talk ok?”

“Ohh alright! Well.. See you tomorrow. Come on Dash, I am ready to go now.” The filly walked up to the pegasus and she lowered herself to let the filly get onto her back. Rainbow Dash stood once she knew the filly was now comfortable and made her way for the door.

“Ready kid?” Scootaloo nodded. “Okay here we go!” Dash waved goodbye to Twilight, the unicorn returning the gesture, Dash then ran off and lept into the sky making her way to her cloud home in the distance.

****

On their way back to Rainbow Dash’s home Dash decide to make a little fun in their return flight. “Hold on kid, we’re gonna have a little fun.” Scootaloo nodded and wrapped her forelegs around the pegasus’s neck.

“O-okay Dash I am ready, please be careful, d-don’t scare me.” Rainbow Dash glanced back to see Scootaloo was shaking nervously a bit.

“Hey, hey now.. Calm down Scootaloo, I promise I’ll be extra careful okay? No crazy stuff, just some fun flying.” The filly nodded, but continued to keep her grip. ‘Ok Scootaloo, looks like I need to prove myself to you.’ Dash leaned forward with her hooves and flapped her wings taking off in a climb, reaching the top of her arch she leveled out and flared her wings coming to a hover. “Ok squirt hang on!” She leaned forward again, banking her wings back and going into a slightly sloped dive making sure she was not going to steep. “Scootaloo! Come on, open your eyes! you’re missing all the fun!” Scootaloo nudged her head away from the pegasus’s neck, she opened her eyes and looked forward the ground coming towards them. Dash toward the bottom of her dive, banked slightly to the left and circled around going back into another climb. Reaching the top she angled slightly to the right and banked off into another gentle dive. This time though Scootaloo was starting to enjoy the flight, she slid back letting her hind legs dangle behind her while holding on to Dash’s neck with her forehooves.

She giggled and looked at Dash “H-hehe this is pretty fun!” She smiled and let her wings flare out, letting the warm summer wind flow through them it felt really good, she was really enjoying herself now. “Faster Rainbow Dash!” The filly said excitedly. Dash smiled and angled a bit steeper, but not too steep.

“Coming right up!” She said, letting the two snap through the afternoon sky. Rainbow Dash was enjoying herself. Flying up and down in a rollercoaster style ride the filly cheering and laughing on the ups and downs filling Rainbow Dash with so much pride.

“This is so fantastic! You are soo awesome Rainbow Dash!” The filly cheered. Rainbow Dash could do nothing but smile she felt just so good! But, after a few more ups and downs Rainbow Dash was getting tired, she leveled out and made her way for her cloud home

“Okay Scootaloo, I’m getting a bit tired, I need to rest a bit.” She said and angled towards her home, but just then she felt a shiver go down her spine, and she felt a warm feeling nuzzling the side of her neck.

“Thank you Rainbow Dash,” Scootaloo said nuzzling her neck. “I really enjoyed that.” Dash blushed a bit at the gesture, and looked away bashfully.

“Heh, heh, no problem Scoot, I’m happy you enjoyed it...I know I did, lets get you inside now, shall we?” Dash landed at her home and let Scootaloo slide off her back and beckoned her inside.

****

Once inside Dash made her way to the kitchen to offload the goods that they had got from the market. “Wait on the couch Scootaloo I’ll just be a second. I need to put this stuff away, then I’ll return to change your bandage.” The filly nodded and made her way to the couch and plopped down on it letting out a breath.

‘Whew! What a day! I never thought this could happen to me. I really can’t thank Rainbow Dash enough for taking such good care of me.’ Dash soon returning from the kitchen she walked over to the filly on the couch and sat down and pulled the medical bag out from under the table.

“Okay squirt let me see that wound.” Scootaloo rolled over onto her side and let Rainbow inspect it. “Hmm.. Does it still hurt?” Dash asked.

“No not really..” The filly replied leaning her head on her hoof.

“Oh, well.. Thats good to hear, sounds like it's healing up pretty good. Let’s take a look at it.” Dash slowly peeled the bandage off the filly, getting a slight wince out of her when the final piece of tape peeled off her pinkish skin having the same red mark as before.

“My fur will grow back?” She looked down at her exposed skin and blushed embarrassingly.

“The doctor said it would. He also said that no visible scar would show either.” Dash said slipping on a hoof glove, reaching for the salve.

“Oh, well.. That makes me feel better...Celestia, I can only imagine Diamond Tiara mocking me if she ever saw it.” Dash started to dab the salve on the fillies wound, it looked much better than a few days ago.

“Wow squirt you sure do heal fast! This wound looks alot better then how I remembered it a few days ago.” Finishing up she grabbed a clean bandage and the medical tape. “After we are done here why don’t we head outside and practice a bit more?”

“Oh that would be great!” The filly was excited to again be learning from her idol, and friend.

“Okay Scoot I am finished playing doctor for today.” Dash giggled. “Let’s head on out.” She helped Scootaloo off the couch, afterwards the duo made their way outside.

****

Dash and Scootaloo were standing on a cloud just outside of Rainbow Dash’s cloud home. The afternoon sun showing signs of early evening. Dash was hovering a few hoof’s off the cloud getting ready to show Scootaloo some wing positions and basic hovering.

“Ok Scoot, let’s start with the basics this time shall we?” The filly nodded. “Okay spread your wings to their fullest, the filly obliged and spread her wings, wincing a bit and making a quiet “uhh” noise when she did.” Rainbow Dash this time took notice raising an eyebrow at the filly. ‘I need to take a look at her wings after we get done here.’

Scootaloo after a bit of grunting finally extended her wings to their fullest. “Okay Rainbow Dash, what's next?”

“Well.. First lets get you used to wing movement. Try flapping your wings, up then down. Keep in tune with your breathing got it? In and up, out and down. Here, let me show you.” Dash unfurled her wings and took in a deep breath, letting it out she flapped them downwards lifting off the ground a bit. “See? Now you try.” Dash kept her hover a few hoofs off the ground.

“Okay Dash, here goes.” Scootaloo took in a deep breath letting her wings rise up, letting it out she let her wings flap downwards, she felt herself hop off the cloud slightly. “Wow, I almost go off the ground!” she smiled at Dash.

“Good job squirt! But, take it easy, now continue with what I am showing you. Remember, in and up, out and down.” Dash was starting to zone out. A past memory filling her mind as she echoed to the young filly the basic’s of flight.

“Miss not afraid of anything, are you telling me you’re afraid of hights?” Refraction chuckled to himself.

“I, I...” Rainbow looked over the edge of the cloud that her parents house sat upon and gazed in fear at the height.

“I, I’m not afraid!” She stepped back from the edge of the cloud; “I, I just don’t want to fall off...” She trailed off.

Refraction chuckled again, he knew how badly she wanted to fly. She was letting a small fear get to her, he had to encourage her just enough, or get her to accept a dare...

“Oh I dunno, hey dashie, bet I can fly out farther than you.” Refraction said, trying to talk on her level. He flew out a few hoofs away from the cloud.

“I, I don’t know...” She looked over the cloud again. It’s not that she doubted her ability to fly or her fathers ability to catch her, she just really didn’t like heights.

“I think somepony is afraid.” Refraction teased.

“I am Not!” Rainbow Squeaked, she lept into the air and raced out farther than Refraction had.

“Oh and now you’re not afraid of the heights?”

Rainbow looked down and then her wings snapped to her sides and she started to fall.

“Help!” She screamed as she plummeted through the sky leaving dash shaped holes in clouds she should have been able to land on.

Refraction quickly jumped into action and chased her, feeling the wing trying to force him back up into the sky.

“Almost, there” He said getting closer and closer.

He reached a hoof out and managed to catch Rainbow, they were not that far from the ground now.

“Oh no! The Ground!” Dash said, being absolutely petrified of it after being told a scary pegasus bedtime story. The intent of the story was to keep young pegasi from falling off their cloud homes, but dash thought it was true.

“What’s wrong with the ground?” Refraction was puzzled.

“Mommy says the ground has all kinds of s-scary m-m-monsters that eat little fillies and colts, and, and I-I don’t want to be eaten.” Rainbow was nearly shaking in her fathers hooves. She was looking down at the ground in panic.

Refraction chuckled as Rainbow moved around in his hooves trying to protect herself from the dangerous unknown that lay beneath them.

“Dash, that's just a story that mothers tell little pegasi so they don’t wander down to the ground and then be unable to get back up.” Refraction said, still chuckling to himself.

Rainbow’s face turned beat red, how could she fall for such a silly tale? Could she really be that naive?

“It’s not funny! I, I don’t think it’s fun-AHH a monster! Save me daddy!” Rainbow panicked as a bee flew past.

“Oh, Dashie its just a bee, it won’t hurt you.”

Rainbow was nearly in tears from the monster that tried to attack her!

“I, is it gone?” She said, her face pressed up against Refraction so she couldn’t see.

Refraction looked down at her and saw the tears flowing down her face.

“Are you really that scared?”

She nodded.

“Ok, well lets go back up then and try something safer...” He said as he flew them back to their cloud.

When they reached their home Rainbow was starting to feel better.

“All better now, no monsters up here.”

“W-what a-about the boogiepony who lives under my bed?”

Refraction laughed again.

“The big bad boogiepony is me! and I’m going to get you!” Refraction said as he started to chase Rainbow.

Rainbow flinched and started to jump away, but alas, she was too slow and the boogiepony got her! She erupted in giggles as Refraction tickled her.

“S-St-top! I-I-I c-can’t b-b-b-breeee-th” She said laughing.

“Oh, but what kind of boogiepony would I be if I let you stop laughing!” He said as he continued to tickle her.

“D-Daddy y-you s-sa-said y-you’d show me m-more flying!” She said, starting to regain her breath as refraction slowed down and stopped tickling her.

“Oh alright, well first, your wing form needs to be better, lets try a little exercise. He said as he stood next to his daughter. Rainbow mimicked his pose.

“Alright now stretch your wings out.” He said as he did the same. Rainbow followed the instructions giving a small wince of pain.

“Aww, Dashie needs her first preening, we’ll cover that later.” Refraction chuckled again at his daughter, though this chuckle was one of being happy, she was growing up, his little filly was becoming a mare, albeit still very young.

“Right, now take deep breaths, when you breath in raise your wings, when you breath out wings down, its a rhythm, try it.”

Rainbow did as Refraction did, moving her wings slowly in rhythm nearly getting herself off the cloud.

“I’m doing it! I’m doing it daddy!”

“Good, now try a little bit faster, not the breathing, but the wing movement.” He said, she did as told and she started to fly.

“Daddy! Look! Look! Look! I’m Flying!” Rainbow said her voice extremely enthusiastic. Skylight had come out to see what the commotion was.

“I see that Dashie, you’re doing great!”

“What’s going on?” Skylight asked.

“I’m Flying Mommy! I’m Flying!” Rainbow said, she had the biggest smile on her face.

“Well, just don’t fall, you know how dangerous the ground can be.” Skylight said.

“Oh Mommy, Daddy says that's just a story! But Look! I’m flying!” Rainbow said being overly infatuated with her flying.

Skylight sighed and Refraction smiled, it was a great flight lesson.

“Dash are you there? Equestria to Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo looked at the pegasus wondering what the hay was going on. Thankfully she was only a few hoofs off the ground so the filly walked up to her and tugged on her leg instantly snapping her out of her day dream, but also breaking her concentration at the same time.

“Huh? wha- what? Whoa!” Dash unfortunately had also forgotten she was flying and stopped flapping her wings too, making a prompt descent to the cloud below making a quiet “Poof” sound when she hit “Bah.. I’m stuck, little help squirt?” The filly giggled at the flyers predicament “Yeah, yeah.. Laugh it up.” She said rolling her eyes at the filly afterwards waving her off with a hoof.

“Hehe.. S-sorry Dash. Here, let me help you up.” Dash extended her forelegs to Scootaloo, the filly grabbed a hold with her own and leaned back on her hind legs tugging on Dash to get her out. Rainbow Dash popped out from the cloud making a “Foomp” sound when she popped out. She quickly got back into the air to prevent herself from landing on the small filly and injuring her.

“Thanks kid,” She said landing next to her and ruffling her mane with her hoof. “Okay so.. Lets see how you manage a small hover. Remember, no over exerting yourself. Just take it easy and let yourself float a few hoofs off the cloud got it?”

“I gotcha Dash. Well.. Here goes.” Scootaloo unfurled her wings and took a ready stance letting in a breath and raising her wings, afterwards letting it out and flapping them downward. She continued this for a moment to get a good feeling, but after a few more test flaps she started to really flap her wings coming to a very low hover . She breathlessly looked over to Dash and smiled. “Whew! It is tough to hold my weight at a hover, when do you think I can actually try moving around?” The filly asked.

“Well.. First, I need to have a look at your wings Scootaloo, I feel that’s the reason you’re tiring yourself out so quickly. Please land for a moment and hold still.” The filly nodded and landed taking a moment to catch her breath and let her heart slow down. Dash walked up to the side of the orange filly and started to examine her wings, but noticed the filly looking at her nervously. “Something wrong?” She asked.

“Well Dash, I feel kinda uncomfortable with you staring at my wings like the way you are now.”

“Hmm? Oh.. Oh! I’m sorry, I totally let it slip my mind heh, heh... I forgot us pegasi dislike other ponies staring at our wings, but don’t you worry, this is for your own good. Trust me.”

“Oh well.. Okay Dash, I trust you.”

Rainbow smiled and continued to examine her wings. Finally she found what the problem was. “ You’re going to have to preen your wings soon squirt. The feathers are all ruffled up, and I bet the reason you are cringing when you unfurl them is because the new feathers are trying to push through, but the old ones are not coming out. So, I will have to assist you.”

Scootaloo immediately folded up her wings and looked at Rainbow Dash scared. “ D-do I have to do it n-now?” She backed up away from Dash a bit keeping her wings tight to her sides.

“Well no..” Scootaloo letting out a sigh of relief. “But, within the next day or two you will need to have it done. Otherwise, the pain will be pretty unbearable. So, perhaps after the meeting tomorrow I’ll help you with it ok? Don’t worry though.. I’ll be gentle, you should not feel much pain, and besides, after what you have been through a little preening is hardly a concern.”

“Well.. okay, if you say so.” Just then the fillies tummy grumbled. She looked away shyly.

“Heh.. Looks like a part of you is speaking Scootaloo.” Dash giggled and gave a playful shove to the filly.

“Yeah.. All this flying is making me hungry. So, What’s for dinner?” The filly asked rubbing her tummy.

“Well how about we try some of that fish we got from the market?” The two making their way back into the house for the kitchen. Scootaloo went and sat down at the kitchen table while Rainbow scanned the ice box. “I was thinking about cooking some of this codfish I picked up, its mighty tasty once you cook it.”

Scootaloo’s mouth started to water, her tummy grumbling when she heard about what was about to be made. “Ohh.. Sounds tasty, I can’t wait to try it, but how do you fry fish up here?” She wondered tapping a hoof to her chin.

“A little cloud power!” chimed the pegasus. “But, you need to know how to apply just the right amount of it, otherwise you get a burnt fish stick.” She chuckled pulling the codfish out from the icebox and placed it on the counter.

The filly chuckled. “ Nope, don’t want that!”

“Say squirt want to help me make our dinner?”

“Okay, what do I need to do?” She go up from the table and walked over to Dash.

“Well you can prep the fish. We need to slice some,” She thought about if it was wise idea to let Scootaloo handle a knife. “On second thought, I’ll slice you can make the batter, and bread it okay?”

“Okay Dash.” Scootaloo walked up to the counter. “ How do I make the batter?” She asked.

“Well.. It’s easy. First, you need a nice flat pan to set them in.” She reached over into a cabinet and pulled out a flat pan and set it on the counter. “Next I’ll slice some portions for you to prep.” Dash took out a sharp serrated knife and carefully sliced six good sized portions of codfish and set them on a cutting board. “Okay now, take some eggs, and mix it them up good.” Rainbow grabbed a few eggs and some butter from the icebox and handed the eggs to the filly. She also grabbed a bowl for the filly to mix them in.

“Okay Dash, I think I can handle this.” She said taking the bowl next cracking an egg on the side of it and placed the contents in the bowl. “Umm.. Rainbow Dash?” Dash raised an eyebrow in question.”

“What is it Scoot’s?”

“How will I stirr it?”

“Oh.. I’m sorry, let me get you a whisk.” She leaned down and opened a drawer pulling out a whisk and hoofed it to the filly. “Here ya go, now stir it up good!”

“Okay Dash!” The filly responded happily. She propped herself up on the counter standing on her hind legs and grabbed the bowl with a foreleg, using the other she started to churn the eggs in the bowl making circular patterns with the whisk, her head turned a little sideways; her ears slightly tilted back, and her tongue just barely sticking out the side of her mouth as she beat the eggs. Rainbow just smiled while she watched the filly stir the eggs. Scootaloo turned to look at Dash for a moment. Seeing her smiling at her she raised an eyebrow while tilting her head sideways. She perked her ears up and asked, “What?” With an innocent, but questioning look on her face.

Dash snapped out of her trance and shook her head. “ Oh.. Sorry squirt, it’s nothing. Anyway, on to the next step. Dash laid out a pan and poured some flour into it. “ Ok kid, dab the fish in the flour then place them one at as time in the egg ok.” she slid the cutting board of codfish over to the filly, and Scootaloo dropped a piece in causing some flour to poof on her face. Dash giggled. “Trying to batter yourself up there Scootaloo?”

Scootaloo rolled her eyes and huffed, waving the pegasus off with a hoof. “Hey! I didn’t know, this it my first time trying this!” She wiped her face smearing the flour over her snout and sneezed. “Ah pfff!” Rainbow laughed. She reached over to the sink grabbing a wet towel and went to wiped the flour off the fillies face. “T-thanks Rainbow Dash.” Scootaloo said coyly blushing a bit.

Dash smiled and tossed the towel back into the sink. “Don’t mention it kid. Now, finish the rest of the fish then place them in some breadcrumbs.” She went over to another cabinet and pulled out another pan and placed some bread crumbs in it. “Here ya go, when you’re done there place the pieces in here one at a time, and take your time this time around okay?”

“Aye! Aye! Rainbow Dash!” She returned giving Dash a mock salute, Dash laughed and poked the filly in her side eliciting a few giggles from her. “H-hey! tehehe.. Quit it Dash!” She then finished covering the fish in breadcrumbs. “How do they look Rainbow Dash?” Rainbow leaned over to inspect the fish.

“Looks good Scoot. Now, watch as I work my magic!” She tossed a skillet on the cloud stove and grabbed a tuff of cloud from the cabinet. “I keep these guys for heating and cooking food.”
“She positioned the cloud above the stove and gave it a couple whacks with her forehooves causing the cloud to shoot out a few bolts of lightning heating up the skillet. She next tossed a stick of butter in the skillet and let it melt “Pass me the fish please Scootaloo, I am going to cook it now.” Scootaloo hoofed the pan of freshly coated codfish over to Dash, she took a slice and tossed it into the skillet watching it sizzle in the pan. A few moment passed and the kitchen started filling up with the scent of cooking fish.

“MMMmmm.. Smells amazing Rainbow Dash, I can’t wait to try it.” She said while licking her lips.

“Give it a few more minutes Scootaloo, and you can have the first one okay.” She picked up a spatula from the counter and flipped the fish, tossing in some spice’s afterwards. Dash leaned forward and took in a smell of the cooking fish, her mouth watered at the smell. “Mmm.. You are right kid it does smell pretty good! I think this one is done, here let me get you a plate. Dash got a plate from the cupboard and placed the slice of freshly cooked fish on it “Careful eating it Scootaloo it’s still pretty hot. Also, tell me what you think about it.” She set the plate down on the table. Scootaloo walked over and sat down in front of the tasty meal taking the smells for a moment.

“MMMmm.. Smells so good!” She rested her forelegs on the table and leaned forward to blow on it a bit. “Okay Dash, here goes.” She leaned in and took a bite, Chewing on it a bit she realized the fish when cooked tasted amazing! She continued to munch on the tasty food noticing Dash was waiting on her response, she swallowed and spoke. “Wow! That was great! I never ate something like that before. I can see why you like it.” She smiled to Dash.

“See I told you, you would like it. Give me a few minutes, I’ll cook the rest of it up.” Rainbow Dash went back to finish up cooking the remaining fish while Scootaloo gobbled up the one on her plate. After a while Dash returned to the table with the rest of the fish and set it down in the middle of the table, “Wala! Dinner is served!” She said sitting down at the table. “So Scootaloo about tomorrow” Dash reached for a piece of fish and set it on her plate. “Its well...”

“Yes? What is it?” She asked looking up from her meal.

“Uh.. Well, umm.. You know what, nevermind...How is your meal?”

“Really good. Never got the chance to eat like this before. Most of the time I just ate what I found lying about.” She said absentmindedly while continuing to scarf down the food.

“What? Scootaloo we really need to have a talk sometime. Your past is beginning to bother me.” The filly wasn’t really listening, she was too focused on the food.

Scootaloo leaned back in her chair and rubbed her tummy. “Ahh... I am stuffed. I couldn’t eat another bite.” She looked over to Dash, she was just pawing at her food. “Are you ok Rainbow Dash? You haven’t touched your food yet.”

“Yeah I’m gonna eat don’t worry it’s what you just said, it kinda bothered me a bit that’s all”

“What did I say that bothered you so much?” She thought for a moment. “Oh! No.. I...I Didn’t mean to say that.” She looked away from Rainbow embarrassed.

“See now Scoot there you go again. Everytime I try to ask you a question about your past you avoid it.”

“I’m sorry Rainbow, but its a really touchy subject I don’t want to talk about it.” She got up and made her way for the living room.

“Scootaloo come back here, don’t walk away from me.” The filly stopped for a moment and looked back at Dash.

“I’m tired Rainbow Dash, can I go lay down please?” The filly did in fact look sleepy, her eyes were half open, bags had formed under them.

Rainbow Dash dropped the matter and lightened her mood. “Sure kid you can use my bed again ok?” Dash got up from the kitchen table and let Scootaloo into her room. “Okay squirt hop in.” Dash pulled the covers back and let Scootaloo jump up and lay down on the bed, She then pulled the covers over her. “Good night Scootaloo see you in the morning.” Scootaloo let out a yawn and laid back resting her head on the soft pillow.

“Good night Rainbow Dash..Wait..Umm where are you going to sleep?” She asked sitting up.

“Don’t worry about me kid, I am gonna go back downstairs to clean up, and then I need to feed Tank. I’ll be on my couch in the living room if you need anything ok?”

“Oh.. Okay. Well thanks again Rainbow Dash.” She laid back down and slid her eyes closed. “See you in the morning.” She said sleepily. Dash smiled and made her way back downstairs letting the filly drift off to sleep.

Scootaloo still laying under the bed waiting. The door closed. “Okay this is my chance I have to get out of this terrible place.” She slid out and slowly made her way down the room. A young pegasus colt waking up to see what the commotion was.

“Scootaloo, that you? What are you doing up? You’re going to get in trouble. You know you are not supposed to be up this late.” The filly turned to look at the colt.

“I am sorry Aero, but I cannot handle it. I am losing my mind! They treat us so terrible here.” Aero looked away from the filly thinking to himself. “Goodbye Aero, take care of yourself.” She said and walked over to the window. She was about to open it, but then a hoof stopped her. She turned to look only to smile when she saw Aero standing next to her.

“I won’t let you leave alone Scootaloo, I am coming with you.” He said smiling.

“Thanks Aero.” She smiled and gave him a playful shove. “ But, you’re still just a scaredy pony.” She laughed. Aero just rolled his eyes.

“Yeah, yeah... Come on lets get going before the guards find us.” He pushed the window open and looked out only to see a vast ocean, “Well this could be a problem.”

“No sweat. I tied a bunch of bed sheets together we can use it as a rope to slide down to the beach.” Scootaloo said pulling the sheets out from behind her and tossing it out the window. She secured it to a post by the window and climbed up onto the windowsill. “I’ll go first, your next got it?” He nodded and leaned up on the windowsill.

“Be careful Scootaloo Its a long way down.” He looked down at the ground nervously.

Scootaloo climbed onto the sheet rope and started to inch her way down. She looked down, getting a bit dizzy as the ground below her started to move. She closed her eyes and breathed before starting to move down the sheet rope again. She was about half way down when she looked up at Aero and noticed a figure approaching behind him.

“Aero look out!” Scootaloo yelled up to him, he turned in time to see a large earth pony stallion reaching for him, he jumped.

Scootaloo yelled in panic but then realized he could fly... ‘how did I forget that?’ she thought to herself. He lowered himself down to her level. She was snapped out of her daze when the rope was starting to be pulled back up.

“Come on, take my hoof!” Aero reached his hoof out to Scootaloo who was slowly being pulled back into the building.

“Are you crazy! You can barely fly yourself!”

“Trust me.” He smiled and looked into her eyes. Reluctantly she reached her hoof out and he took it.

“Let go.”

Scootaloo didn’t like the sound of that, after all they were still very high.

“I...I don’t-”

“Do you trust me?”

He looked deep into her eyes and she looked back.

“Let go.” She let go of the rope and started to fall, pulling Aero down with her weight. She yelled as she plunged down, Aero in tow.

“Don’t let go of my hoof!” Aero yelled as he tried to pull them up, furiously flapping his wings.

His grip loosened and Scootaloo fell a bit faster. Then, Aero lost his grip. Scootaloo fell plunging hoof after hoof through the air.

*Splash*

Scootaloo plunged deep under the water, she kicked for the surface trying to reach it. She could see Aero speeding down to the water, his wings had given out. He splashed down next to her, however he started to sink. She tried to save him, pulling him up, just a few hoofs from the surface of the water. Her mouth opened on reflex and she stopped floating up. Soon, everything went black.

It was silent in Rainbow’s house save for the occasional movement of one of the sleeping pegasi.

All of the sudden the silence was pierced by a loud scream. Rainbow Dash shot up spinning her head around “What the hay was that!?” She listened and heard the screaming was coming from her room. “Scootaloo! Hang on squirt, I’m coming!” She shot up off the couch snapped her wings open and exploded off towards her room blasting stuff out of the way as she darted up the stairs, landing a second later she threw the door open to see a crying filly in her bed, her head in her hooves. “What’s the matter Scootaloo? Are you alright?” She walked over to the bed and was about to put a hoof to the fillies shoulder, but Scootaloo threw herself into Rainbow Dash hugging her tightly. Dash just stood there shocked.

“I..I...I h-had a N-n-nightm-mare.” Scootaloo whimpered. Dash just stood there in disbelief, she didn’t know how to respond.

“You had a Nightmare? Um, everything is..um, everything is gonna be ok?” Dash said, unsure of how to react to the situation. She put her hoof on Scootaloo’s head.

“P-please d-don’t l-leave, I, I-I’m s-scared.” Scootaloo sobbed.

“Um.. Sure thing kid. Um, wanna uh, talk about it?”

“I, I j-just d-don’t want t-to be al-lone.” Rainbow Dash smiled and ruffled the fillies mane.

“No worries squirt, I’ll make a bed for me to sleep on and keep you company. Sound good?” The filly nodded. “Ok then Scootaloo. Also, could you please let go of this bearhug you got on me?” Dash giggled.

Scootaloo let go and turned away bashfully. “Heh, heh... Sorry.” She said now looking back with a slight blush on her face. Dash stood back righting herself and taking a breath.

“Okay Scootaloo...hay that kid has quite a grip, give me a second to make my bed.” She walked over to a corner of her room and pulled out a couple tuffs of cloud forming it into a bed and she hopped into it. “All set! Well... Goodnight Scootaloo see you in the morning.” Dash said as she laid down on the bed trying to get comfortable. Scootaloo laid back into the pillows and sighed..

“Thanks again Rainbow Dash, I can’t begin to appreciate what you are doing for me.”

Dash raised a hoof in the air and waved it at the filly. “Don’t mention it kid.” she paused for a moment, and rolled over to face the filly. “I mean that too. Don’t mention to the girls tomorrow I went all mushy and stuff okay?”

Scootaloo chuckled. “Alright Rainbow Dash, your secret is safe with me.” She then rolled over and closed her eyes. and drifted off to sleep. Dash lay still for a few minutes thinking to herself.

‘This kinda reminds me of when I had a nightmare a long time ago. Poor Scootaloo, I know how you feel.’ She then rolled over and after a few minutes drifted off to sleep herself.

A New Horizon

Chapter Three
A New Horizon

Written by
Enlistedpony & Secret_Shadows
Edited by avorin

Later that night the two pegasus’s were fast asleep in Rainbows room, but the eldest of the two was tossing and turning. The events of that evening had unlocked a memory she had tried her best to keep repressed for far too long.

Rainbow ran down the hallway. It was dark, the only light illuminating from seemingly nothing. The were sounds of thunder and the pitter patter of rain on windows, windows she could not see. She galloped down the hall and turned into another long hallway. At the end was a light, she ran for it.

An increasing state of panic as the light seemed to move farther and farther away. The faster she ran, the faster the light moved away, as if it was parallel to herself moving at an equal if not greater speed. She saw a figure in the light, a pegasus shaped pony, a mare. The mare seemed to float away. The hallway lit up momentarily in conjunction with thunder. The mare started to run to Rainbow, but seemed to be moving away.

“Rainbow, Help me Rainbow” The mare said, the voice was haunting Rainbow as she heard it. The mare was familiar, oddly familiar. The hallway was familiar, the storm was familiar, everything was familiar, memories flooded back, her parents, gone.

“Rainbow” The voice echoed

Rainbow could see the mare clearly now, even though she grew farther distant. It was, no, it couldn’t be, the moment she realized, the mare was engulfed in a puff of smoke and then she was gone. The light faded, the floor beneath Rainbow fell, the walls around her falling into a deep abyss of black nothingness. Rainbow to, was falling. She tried to fly, to no avail.

Falling. Tired. Sleep. Nothing.

Tossing and turning, rolling around as if in a state of terror. Unable to sleep soundly, unable to wake up. Rainbow was stuck, in her nightmarish world, full of fear and strife. Restlessness. Sleeplessness. Fear.

She landed in a hallway, much like the one she was in before. This one was darker, the sounds of a raging storm still present. On the ground before her, splayed out was a stallion, a pegasus, she knew this pegasus, a light, a dark red light was approaching from the hallway.

“Go”

She hesitated.

“Just go!”

She ran, galloping down the hall, away from the stallion, farther and farther, the light was catching up, continuing to run. Down the hall, turning her head back, she could no longer see the stallion, only the red light, and suddenly, a scream of pain, then, nothing, no sound. She skidded to a stop. She turned back, she went to run, but the floor started to collapse behind her and the light started to catch up to her. She knew it would destroy her. Her only option, to run.

Running down the hall, the floor collapsing just behind her, following her as she ran, the light approaching at an unimaginable speed, her wings, unworking, flapping her wings trying to fly, unable to lift off. Loud, a rumble of immense proportions ringing in her ears as the red light got closer and closer, the floor collapsing beneath her, falling, into the light, the deep crimson light. Pain.

Tossing about, covers strewn about her bed, unable to control her limbs in this state of unrest. The constant pain and suffering of her nightmares pushing her to restlessness, unable to relax her body. Unable to sleep soundly, feeling of pain, suffering, regret.

The crimson light faded revealing a large open black void. Nothing. Echoes in the distance, voices.

“Rainbow?”

“My Dashie?”

“Where are you dear?”

Rainbow looked around to all sides, nothing but a black empty area devoid of anything.

“Rainbow dear?”

“Where is she?”

“Dashie!”

Unable to find the source, she ran in the general direction the voices were coming from.
Then the voices started to come from behind her.

“Dash?”

Rainbow skidded to a stop and turned around, galloping in the direction of the voices. Again they changed their location, then again, and again. Then they started to fill her mind. She stopped and laid down on the ground and covered her ears with her hooves.

“Rainbow, why didn’t you save us?”

“Rainbow, don’t you miss us?”

“Rainbow!”

As she tossed and turned tears started to leak out of her eyes, she was crying from her nightmare. Unable to recover.

“Rainbow?”

“Come on Dash, can’t you find us?”

“Stop it! Stop it! Stop it! I’m sorry alright! I’m sorry!” Rainbow yelled, now crying.

“Why didn’t you save us?”

“Where were you?”

“I...I can’t, w-why are you d-doing this t-to me...I-I-I”

“Sleep Now Rainbow Dash, just like mother!” A voice said, this one was different, this one was a voice, it sounded like, almost like a mature version of Scootaloo’s voice. Though Rainbow didn’t put that much together in her dreamy haze.

An orange light approached and engulfed Rainbow causing pain along her entire body.

Rainbow shook in her sleep, crying and emotionally unstable, she slept. The dreams carrying on for most of the night, feeling Terror, Fear, Regret, Despair.

Rainbow Dash woke the next morning. Sitting up she rubbed her temples with her hoofs. “Pony, that was one bad dream I had last night.” She had to squint her eyes the pain from the headache was intense. “Ugh, this headache is killing me.” She got up from her bed and walked over to the bed Scootaloo was sleeping in. The filly had a peaceful look on her face as she slept. Her chest rose and fell with each gentle breath she took, letting out a quiet whinny every now and then between breaths, occasionally her ears flicked at a dream she might have been experiencing. Dash smiled and just watch the filly sleep for a few moments. ‘Why does this feel so familiar?” She thought as she watched the filly sleep. Eventually the filly stirred and slowly slid her eyes open. Noticing the pegasus watching her she mumbled then spoke.

“MMmm.. Wha.. Oh, hey Rainbow Dash. Good morning.” She rubbed her eyes and looked up at Dash a little nervous. “Umm.. Why are you looking at me like that?” She said sitting up. Rainbow looked on for a moment holding her smile until the realization hit her on what she was actually doing, and the look she was getting from the filly. She shook her head breaking herself from the trance she was in.

“Hmm? What? Oh! I’m sorry squirt. I was just watching you sleep for a moment. You looked so peaceful, I didn’t want to disturb you.”

‘Well that’s a little odd.’ She thought tilting her head to one side.

Rainbow looked around nervously for a moment, and rubbed the back of her neck with a hoof. “Well.. Lets go downstairs and get ready for today, we got a big day ahead of us. Come on, time...” She was cut off by Scootaloo keeping a questioning look on her. “To ge... Umm.. Why are you looking at me like that Scootaloo?” Scootaloo just tilted her head, resting a hoof on her cheek keeping the look.

“Oh I dunno.. Just thinking.” She smiled at Dash causing the pegasus to get a little nervous.

“Oh? Thinking about what?”

“About what you just said. You know, watching me sleep and stuff.”

“Heh.. Well umm..About that...Horseapples Dash, what were you thinking staring at the kid like that?, see thing is.” The filly interjected.

“What were you thinking about Dash?” She kept her gaze locked on Dash, but the pegasus was having a hard time doing the same. Her eyes darted around nervously trying to avoid eye contact. “Is something wrong Dash? Why are you so nervous?”

“What? No! N-nothings wrong. Everythings okay.” She looked away trying to focus on something else kinda losing her focus and staring at nothing, until she felt something tap her shoulder.

“Rainbow Dash? Hello..? Equestria to Rainbow Dash, are you in there?” She tapped on Dash’s shoulder again finally getting her to snap out of her trance. She looked back at the filly and blushed embarrassingly.

“Wh-Wha.. What!? Oh heh.. sorry squirt, what was the question again?” She stammered.

“What were you thinking I was asking.” She asked again letting out a small giggle afterwards. Dash instantly picked up on it.

“What..Heyyy..” Her blush immediately vanished off her face and she cocked an eyebrow up and looked at the filly. “You’re not trying to make fun of me now are you?” She said deeping her look on the filly.

“W-what? M-me? N-no! tehehe.. I w-was not thinking that!” She stammered now it was her turn to get nervous.

“You remember what I said before? What would happen if you tried to make fun of me again?” Dash said putting on a mischievous smile and leaning in on the filly. Scootaloo withdrew herself trying to slowly move away from the approaching pegasus.

“Kinda, but I don..” She made the mistake of rolling onto her back trying to inch her way away from Dash exposing her tummy. Dash took the chance and poked her on her tummy causing the filly to gasp and flinch letting out a slight giggle. ‘Oh no...’ But it was too late. Dash leaped on the bed and hopped on top of Scootaloo.

“Time for a little payback!” She unfurled her wings and gently rubbed the sides of Scootaloo’s belly causing the filly to thrash around laughing.

“I’m S-sorry! I...I won’t d-do it again!” She stammered out while laughing, kicking her hind legs as Dash’s feathers tickled her sides.

“Promise?”

“I-I-I... tehehe.. I promise! D-Dash... Can’t breath!” Rainbow let up and hopped off the bed letting the filly regain her breath.

“That’s good. Now, how about we go downstairs and get that bandage changed then get something to eat?” Scootaloo after taking a few moments to regain her breath and let her heart slow down nodded to the pegasus and hopped off the bed and began to follow her downstairs to the living room. She stopped for a moment and smiled at Dash, then continued on downstairs. “Ok Scoot you know the drill up on the couch and lay on your side. The filly obliged and laid on her side letting Dash inspect the bandage. “Does this hurt Scoot?” Dash very gently poked the bandage waiting on a response from Scootaloo.

“More like irritation I should say no pain really.” She flinched when Dash poked one last time.

“Well lets take a look at it shall we?” She said and peeled the bandage off her skin this time though little bristles of fur were tugged on when she pulled the bandage off eliciting a slight whimper out of the filly.

“Ow! That hurt a bit. Seems like my fur is growing back a little bit.” She rubbed the area with a hoof “Hopefully this heals up before it all grows back.”

“Well looking at it, I can say a few more days and we can probably have the sutures taken out. It looks pretty good from here. Well let me get it dressed, and we can get some breakfast then head on out. Sound good?” The filly nodded. Dash pulled out the bag from under the table and grabbed the needed supplies, and looked over to the filly watching what was going on. “Scootaloo.”

“Yes Rainbow Dash?” She looked up for a moment.

“Today’s meeting is about you.” She said flatly.

“About me? What about me?”

“Well, it’s about the fact you're keeping secrets from me.” She said slipping on a glove next reaching for the salve.

“W-what secrets?” She was getting nervous, she knew exactly what Dash was talking about.

“You know what I am talking about Scootaloo..” She set the salve down and focused all her attention on the filly looking away. “It’s about your parents. No more hiding with me, or trying to dodge the question. Out with it!” She snapped. Scootaloo flinched at the sudden snap from Dash. Rainbow Dash instantly felt bad about snapping at the filly the way she just did. “I...I’m sorry for snapping at you Scootaloo.” Her ears fall back, and she looked down, upset at herself for her sudden outburst. ‘Stupid, stupid, stupid! Way to go you foal!’ She was mentally beating herself up.

“I...I,” She was trying to find the words, meanwhile, Scootaloo was just avoiding all eye contact with Dash, and looking at her wound paying the pegasus no mind. “It’s just.. Umm.”

“Just what Dash...” The filly responded emotionlessly, not even bothering to look up at the pegasus. The words hit Rainbow Dash hard. She now felt even worse than before.

“Scootaloo..”

“What is it Dash?”

“I...I... Come on you coward, say it!, Well... I care about you kid.” She kept looking down not bothering to make eye contact, it was really hard for Rainbow Dash to say what she just said. Scootaloo looking down wasn’t really paying attention to Dash, until what she just said. Her ears instantly perked up and she looked up to see the pegasus pawing at the cloud floor.

“Really?” Dash looked up at the filly, a little remorse in her eyes.

“Yes Scootaloo, I do.” She said letting a heartfelt smile form on her face. “I mean, I wouldn't be doing all this if I didn’t right?” Scootaloo eyes watered up a bit at the comment. She felt like diving into the pegasus and hugging her not wanting to ever let go. Nopony ever told her that, it made her feel like she was not just an unwanted piece of trash anymore, but she was still unsure of herself and more so of Rainbow Dash, so she stifled the emotion and opted to just respond.

“Thank you Rainbow Dash, I feel better now.” She smiled.

“Thats a relief to hear kid, I was afraid I really hurt your feelings there.” She said and picked up the salve again. “Anyway, I hate to ask this again, but could you please at least try to talk to me about your parents? Who are they? Where are they? How can we contact them?” The filly looked away again, but this time she turned back and looked at Dash and let out a breath.

“Promise me you won’t tell anypony what I am about to tell you.” She looked at dash with pleading eyes.

“I promise Scootaloo, I will not tell anypony, not even the girls what you are about to tell me.” Scootaloo let out another sigh and laid back on the couch.

“My parents are...” She let a few tears out. “Dead.” Dash dropped the salve and her jaw at the same time. Her mind was just thrown into complete disarray at what was just revealed. Taking a moment to regain her thoughts she looked at the filly and spoke..

“H-how?”

“I...I don’t know Rainbow Dash, the orphanage never told me.”

“Orphanage? Is that where you were before here?” Again the filly clammed up just looking down her ears against the side of her head.

“Dash...” The filly looked up at Rainbow, clearly upset at what she was about to say.

“Yes Scootaloo?”

“I-I...I’m sorry Rainbow Dash, but I just don’t trust you enough to really say anymore. Please don’t force me to talk okay?” The filly just looked away again waiting on the pegasus’s response. Dash felt so bad for the filly. She really wanted to help, but how could she? Scootaloo didn’t want reveal her past, but what she had revealed had utterly floored Rainbow, but she was one to not further upset or fail the ones she cared for. She stood up and laid a foreleg over the fillies back causing her to flinch a bit. Dash rubbed Scootaloo’s back with a hoof calming the filly some.

“No problem Scootaloo, I will not force you into doing anything you do not want to talk about or feel uncomfortable with.” She laid a hoof to her heart.” I promise you this, cross my heart.” She sat back down. “Feel better now?” Scootaloo smiled at the pegasus.

“Yes Rainbow Dash, Thank you for that. I really appreciate this.”

“No problem Scootaloo. When you are ready, and want to talk, I will be there for you, and I’ll be there to listen okay?” Dash smiled and patted the filly on her head.

“Thank you so much Rainbow Dash,” The filly smiled and blushed. “I don’t think you know how much better that really makes me feel hearing it from you.” A new feeling was now growing in her chest. She was afraid of it at first, not really understanding what this feeling was, but after keeping her gaze on the pegasus in front of her she knew what it was. ‘I...I love you Rainbow Dash.’ But, she was scared. Scared of telling Dash how she really felt. Scared of rejection. This is the first time in her life she has ever had feelings like this for anypony, but she was afraid Rainbow Dash would not really understand, and turn her away like everypony else has. And finally, she was scared that she would be returned to the that terrible place of her past. So, she decided to keep these feelings bottled up for now, and just stared at Dash for a moment smiling. Rainbow looked over to the filly wondering why she was looking at her the way she was.

“You ok there squirt? You’re looking at me kinda weird.” Scootaloo shook her head and pushed the thought to the back of her mind.

“Oh.. Yeah, I’m fine. So, are you gonna finish up on my leg? I want to go see my friends while you guys have your little meeting.”

“Yeah.. Give me a few minutes to finish up here and we can head on out.” She dabbed a bit of the salve on the wound and grabbed a bandage and some tape. “Also, instead of eating breakfast here, I thought we would drop in on Pinkie Pie for some of her tasty cupcakes!

“Oh sounds great! I always liked the food Pinkie Pie made.” Dash finished up tending to Scootaloo’s wound and slid the bag back under her table.

“Ok then, when we are all done here. Let’s head on out!” The two made their way for the door, both of them thinking of what had transpired earlier, and how this would effect the meeting planned later on. “Hey squirt.” Dash stopped just before they were about to leave. Scootaloo turned to look at Dash. a nervous tingle went through her.

“Y-yeah, what is it Dash?” Rainbow Dash noticed the filly acting a bit nervous, but just shook it off.

“You think you’ll be able to float down to Ponyville yourself?” She laughed “I’m getting kinda of tired of hauling ya around, I’m not the Ponyville Express ya know.”

“Oh well.. I..Well I think I should be able to..” She looked out kinda unsure of herself. She felt a hoof touch her shoulder.

“Don’t worry Scoot, you’ll do fine. I feel you are at least ready for this. Just remember what I showed you okay?” Scootaloo nodded. “Okay lets get ready follow me.” The filly followed Dash to the edge of her cloud home and looked out over Ponyville. “Ready?” Dash unfurled her wings and lifted off into a hover waiting for Scootaloo to follow. “Come Scoot, don’t leave me hanging.” She waved for Scootaloo to follow her.

“Okay Dash here I come.” She unfurled her wings remembering the lessons from yesterday she was able to come to a hover ‘Well that was a bit easier, I don’t even feel as exhausted as I did yesterday trying this, She made her way over to Dash and floated there for a moment. “So what’s next?”

“Awesome squirt! Knew you could do it, Okay, next we are going to glide down to Ponyville. No flapping or fancy maneuvers, just a gentle glide. I want you to follow what I do ok? Dash angled herself slightly forward and downwards letting her wings flare out to grab the air allowing her to float downwards. “Come on Scootaloo! Keep up! Scootaloo took in a breath and did the same. Angling herself downwards slightly and letting her wings flare out to catch the air. She soon found herself gently floating down to Ponyville. Rainbow angled up to slow her descent to allow the filly to catch up. “Not bad Scoot, not bad. But, you got along way to go to be awesome like me!” Scootaloo just rolled her eyes.

“Yeah, yeah Dash.” She giggled “This is pretty fun. So, where are we gonna land at?” She said, taking in the sights as the two continued to glide down to the town.

“Over in that field” Dash pointed to an open field in the distance. “I train there sometimes. It’s also not a far walk from Ponyville, so we can head to Sugarcube Corner once we land.

“Sounds good.” After a few more moments the two landed. Dash making a perfect touchdown. Scootaloo however upon landing stumbled a few steps before stabilizing herself. Rainbow laughed and walked up to the filly.

“Well your glide was great, but the landings need a touch up though.” She chuckled and gave the filly a playful shove. Scootaloo huffed and rolled her eyes giving the pegasus a dismissive wave of her hoof.

“Pfft...Whatever.. I thought I did pretty well considering it was my first time trying something like that.” She sat down and crossed her forelegs letting out another huff. Dash just giggled at the pouty filly and started to make her way for Ponyville.

“Now, now, Miss pouty, I was only teasing. For a beginner you did very well actually.” Scootaloo’s ears perked up at the comment. “You just need a little more practice thats all.” Dash looked back to the filly waving a wing, beckoning the filly to follow her. “Come on, lets go.” Scootaloo nodded and got up to follow Dash. The two then made their way to Sugarcube Corner, arriving there a few moments later.

****

“Hi Dashie! Hi Scootaloo! Oh did you fly here Scootaloo? Thats fantastic! I was wondering what it was like to be a pegasus but then I was like, oh silly me I am an earthy pony,”

“Pinkie”

“Then I thought there is no y at the end of earth, but then I though,”

“Pinkie”

“You have to share and care! Because its the right thing to do you know,”

“Pinkie!”

“And thats the story of how I got a job at sugarcube corner, you know, funny story actually, when I worked on the rock farm-”

Pinkie was stopped by a cyan hoof entering her mouth.

“Pinkie!”

“Mphf Mphf Phlf yph”

“Pinkie stop talking...”

“Hmmph?”

Rainbow removed her hoof from the pink mares mouth.

“We came here to eat breakfast...”

“Well why didn’t you say so dashie!”

Rainbow cringed at pinkies ‘pet name’ for her.

“P, please don’t call me that anymore.”

“Why Dashie? Dashie Dashie Dashie!”

“Because....” Rainbow tried to search for a reason that would hide her real reason.

“But Dashie!”

“Shut Up Pinkie!” Dash snapped, seeming to lose her composure for a few seconds. Scootaloo stepped back a bit after Dash’s outburst.

“What’s wrong Rainbow?” Scootaloo asked in a rather scared tone.

“Nothing I, I just don’t want to be called that anymore...it’s nothing really.” Rainbow looked down, obviously not telling the truth. Scootaloo could tell, but she chose not to say anything, lest receive a harsh response from Rainbow.

“So, how about breakfast! What do you two want!” Pinkie said in an ever too happy tone.

“What do you have?” Scootaloo asked.

“Well, we have Apple pie, Apple fritter, Apple dumpling, Apple crisp, Apple crumble, Apple Brown Bettie, Dutch apple pie, Candied apple on a stick, Apple turnover, Apple cobbler, all generously donated by applejack!” Pinkie said while pointing to a case of ‘featured foods’

“Oh, they all sound so deli-” Scootaloo was cut off.

“We also have cookies, cakes, pies, including chocolate chip, sugar, apple, cherry, and fudge cookies! We also have several types of cakes including chocolate, vanilla, ice cream cake, and cherry cake!”

Rainbow was starting to get increasingly annoyed by Pinkie.

“We also have...” Rainbow tried to tune out the rest of the list, her face growing an increasingly annoyed look.

She started to tune everything out, she had a headache from the lack of sleep the night before and Pinkie was only making it worse.

“What do you think Rainbow?...Rainbow?” Scootaloo tugged on Rainbow’s mane a bit to get her attention.

“Huh, what? oh uh.....that apple fritter sounds good, I’ll have that.”

“I’ll have what Rainbow Dash is having!” Scootaloo smiled.

“Okie Dokie Lokie!” Pinkie proceeded to pounce her way into the kitchen bringing some apple fritters out.

Rainbow started to eat her fritter, as did Scootaloo; Pinkie however, was not eating.

“So are you going to the meeting at Twilight’s too, you know, the one about you adopting Scootaloo?”

Rainbow nearly choked on her fritter.

Pinkie suddenly felt a hoof collide with her head.

“Pinkie!” Rainbow snapped.

“What was that for Dashie?” Pinkie said rubbing her head.

“I told you not to call me that! And thats not what the meeting is about!!” Rainbow snapped. “And who said the stupid idea that I would adopt her?!”

Scootaloo was instantly taken back by this comment from Rainbow. Her ears dropped and her eyes started to water up a bit.

‘R-rainbow thinks I’m stupid?’ Scootaloo thought to herself.

“It’s not like she doesn’t have a home! Its stupid to even consider adopti-” Rainbow stopped when she looked over at Scootaloo.

‘Am, am I that, stupid? M-maybe I am j-just a stupid little f-filly that nopony likes...’ Scootaloo was starting to feel even more sad and unwanted. She got up from the table and galloped out of the room crying.

“Scoots, I, wait, Scootaloo!”

‘Stupid! Why did I say that!’

Scootaloo found a spot in the next room under a small table, the table had a tablecloth on it providing the perfect hiding spot.

‘Everypony hates me, I’m stupid and nopony likes me. I should run away again to a place where I can’t hurt nopony anymore.’

Rainbow trotted into the room, she looked around for Scootaloo until she noticed a purple tail sticking out from under a table.

She walked over to the table and lifted up the tablecloth with her hoof.

Scootaloo was laying on the floor under the table crying. Rainbow could only feel bad, she had inadvertently hurt this poor little fillies feelings.

“Scootaloo.” Rainbow said in a hushed tone.

“Wh-what.” She said through her tears. Her face buried in her hooves.

“I, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to-”

“I know its not true, don’t even try.”

Rainbow was taken back by this, Scootaloo’s sudden change in attitude.

“Scootaloo, I didn’t mean to make you feel bad, I’m sorry.” She crawled under the table and laid down next to Scootaloo.

“I’m j-just a s-s-stupid l-little filly that nopony l-likes.”

“Thats not true.”

“Yes it is....”

Rainbow was silent for a few moments, she then put her hoof over Scootaloo and pulled her close.

“Its not true because I like you squirt.” Rainbow smiled as she looked at Scootaloo. Scootaloo looked back at her. Her eyes were watery and her face had a look of genuine sadness.

“Come on Scoots, don’t be all negative, you know me and all of the other girls and the crusaders are here for you.”

“Yo-you really l-like me?”

Rainbow smiled and winked at Scootaloo without speaking.

“So, would you adopt me?” Scootaloo looked at Rainbow.

Rainbow didn’t answer, she truly hadn’t thought about it.

“Well, it depends on, uh, things, why don’t we go back to Pinkie and we can talk about that later, kay?”

Scootaloo nodded and they both went to rejoin Pinkie.

“Oh we’ll be late, we should get to Twilight’s so we can talk about you adopting Scootaloo Rainbow!” Pinkie said with a bit too much enthusiasm after the events that just transpired.

A harsh glare from Rainbow silenced Pinkie. “Really Pinkie.. You need to think before you speak next time.” Pinkie just happily bounced out the door off to Twilights. ‘I think you need to take advice from your own words too Dash.’ The pegasus waved to the filly. “Come on Scootaloo lets get going shall we?” The filly nodded and followed Dash out and they made their way to Twilight's library.

****

Arriving at the library Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo could hear the familiar sounds of her friends talking inside as they walked up to the door, Dash knocked and waited, turning to look at Scootaloo for a second noticing she was kinda fidgety . “You alright Scoot? What’s bugging you?” Scootaloo looked up to Dash with a blank expression, and turned away looking somewhere off in the distance.

“It’s nothing Dash, lets go inside ok? I want to see my friends.” Dash gave the filly a weak smile, a second later the door opened.

“Oh hello Rainbow Dash.” Spike said. “Twilight and the rest of the girls are here, you got here a second earlier than Pinkie. Funny thing though, she was confused about something, not sure what it was she didn’t mention it. Anyway, come on in their expecting you.” He stepped aside to let the two enter.

“Howdy Rainbow Dash!” Applejack said walking up to her tipping her hat giving a smile. “Howdy Scootaloo, how are ya doin?” She smiled to the little filly and ruffled her mane. “Applebloom and Sweetie Belle are in the next room. Why don’tcha go in and say hi ta them. Scootaloo nodded and headed off to the other room where her friends were waiting. “Rainbow What’s up with Scootaloo?” Applejack turned to watch The filly walk off and scratched her head. “Did Yall have ah’ argument again?” Dash shrugged and nodded.

“Kinda...more like I put my hoof in my mouth again, but if Pinkie had not said what she said, I would of not... uhh..” She sighed and looked at Applejack, “Made a fool of myself again..” Dash scuffed the floor with a hoof after that.’

“Ah donna understand Rainbow, What did Pinkie say?”

“She mentioned something about adoption,” Applejack had a bemused look on her face after that, she had to blink a couple times to register the thought. “And it kinda set Scootaloo off. Never seen her act like that before, it was odd.”

“Pinkie said that!? What in tarnation was she thinking?” Dash let out a breath, and then just stared flatly at the farm pony.

“Applejack, this is Pinkie Pie we are talking about you know.” She shrugged. “But, when she said it, Scootaloo was standing right next to us.” She thought about what had happened and felt angry at the party pony for doing what she did, and how it made her look stupid in front of the filly, and hurt her feelings. The last part for some reason had torn her up inside, she felt bad for saying what she said, and not properly thinking it over before just blurting it out, but Pinkie had put her in a position she didn’t like to be in causing her to act the way she did.

“Yea Ah guess ya’ll are right there Rainbow Dash, but did ya at least try ta patch things up with Scootaloo? Ah’m sure she would understand, it was an honest mistake right?”

“Well.. Kinda, uh...” She started to fidget, looking around to see if and anypony was watching. She then turned back to face Applejack. “Umm.. Can you keep a secret for me Applejack? just for now, I just need to tell somepony.”

“Wait, it was only a mistake right?” Dash looked at Applejack for a moment.

“Huh? wha- Oh! No no.” She shook her head and waved a hoof to Applejack. “It’s not that. We made up... at least I hope we did, it’s just..” She took in a breath letting it out and sighed “I have been having these feelings growing for the squirt. Ever since the hospital, and well..” She looked away unsure of what to say. Applejack walked up to Rainbow Dash and placed a hoof on her shoulder and smiled at the flustered pegasus.

“Ah think Ah know what yall are tryin’ ta say there Rainbow Dash.” Dash perked her ears up and looked up at the farm pony confused.

“Y-you.. You do?” Applejack nodded and smiled

“Yes Ah do, and Ah think you do too.” She looked back to the door Scootaloo walked into, and noticed it closed rather quickly, with a smirk on her face she looked back to Rainbow Dash. “Ah know when ya’ll are ready to talk to her,” Dash just looked away knowing all too well what this feeling was growing in her chest for the filly, but she was also scared. Unsure of how Scootaloo may react if Dash started to show more of how she truly felt, but she knew eventually she would have to make a choice. Applejack pulled Dash back to look at her again and continued. “Ah feel she’ll be ready to listen.” Rainbow looked over to the door Scootaloo had walked through a smile tugging at her lips.

‘Hopefully one day I’ll have the courage to tell you how I truly feel Scootaloo.’

Come on Rainbow Dash,” Applejack waved to the pegasus to follow her. “Let’s go, the girls are waiting for us.” The two making their way into the reading room. A few moment later a door slid open and three fillies slipped out.

“What was that all about Scootaloo? Ah have never seen Rainbow Dash act like that. What da ya think she ment when she said she had feelings for ya?” Scootaloo only stood there in disbelief. Did she just hear what she thought she had heard? Did Rainbow Dash actually have feelings for her, and where they as strong as she had for Dash? She wasn’t sure of what was happening yet but she wanted to find out.

“Hmm? Oh.. Well, I don’t know what she ment by that Applebloom, but want to do a little spyin with me? How bout you too Sweetie Belle? The filly unicorn jumped excited at the offer clopping her hooves together.

“Oh yes, yes! This sounds like fun!” She squeaked a little loud.

“SHHHH!!” Scootaloo holding a hoof to her mouth. “Keep it down Sweetie Belle. We are supposed to be spyin, and you shouting is not helping.” Sweetie Belle blushed embarrassingly.

“Heh, sorry girls.” She said and sat down calming herself, afterwards the three fillies inched up to the door to the reading room and leaned their heads up to the door pressing their ears up against it to listen in.

“Can ya’ll two hear anything they are talkin’ about? Ah can’t hear nuthing.” Scootaloo turned her head to face Applebloom.

“Shh!! I can hear, it sounds like Twilight is talking.” The other two fillies clammed up and resumed pressing their ears up against the door, and they too could hear the sounds of a discussion going on.

****

“So Rainbow Dash, have you decide on what going to happen with Scootaloo?” Asked Twilight.

“Not really Twilight, she has to stay with me for at least another few days until her stitches get taken out” Fluttershy piqued up at the last part of what Dash had said.

“How is Scootaloo’s injury doing if you don’t mind me asking Rainbow Dash.” Dash looked over to Fluttershy laying on a comfy blanket.

“Pretty good actually Fluttershy, I have to say, that kid sure does heal fast.”

“Kinda like you do Rainbow Dash.” Twilight added. Dash thought about what Twilight had said.

“Your right Twilight... Huh, that’s odd, Guess us pegasus's are just made from strong stuff.

Twilight giggled at the comment. “Or, its because you’re just reckless, and after a number of hospital trips your body has grown accustomed to injury, so its had “past experience” in dealing with stuff of that nature.” She laughed afterwards getting a smug look from Dash.

Dash crossed her forelegs and huffed. “Yeah, yeah, I get it Twilight, you don’t need to rub it in.” She waved a dismissive hoof at the lavender unicorn. Twilight just shrugged it off and asked her next question.

“So, has Scootaloo told you anymore of her past or parents Rainbow Dash?” Rainbow sat up on the couch and tapped her hooves together nervously. AppleJack raising an eyebrow at the gesture.

“What’s wrong sugarcube?” Dash kept her head hung down, she looked up and let out a breath.

“I’m sorry girls, but I made a promise to Scootaloo, I can’t tell you about it. Not until she says its okay. Please understand.” Scootaloo on the other side of the door heard what the pegasus said. It made her feel really happy to know Dash was going to keep her promise about what she had revealed. Sweetie Belle turned to get comfortable and to better hear, she noticed Scootaloo getting all misty eyed.

“Are you alright Scootaloo?” She looked at the orange filly questionaly. Scootaloo waved a hoof and rubbed her eyes to get the mistiness out of them.

“Yeah I’m alright Sweetie Belle, I just got some dust in my eyes for a second there.” Scootaloo let out a sigh and returned to listening in on what’s going on. Meanwhile back in the room The five others nodded in agreement.

“Darling, it’s really wonderful of you to hold your promise to Scootaloo. I’m pretty sure she appreciates what you’re doing for her.”

‘More than you could ever know Rarity.’ Thought Scootaloo.

“Well I owe it to her Rarity. After the accident I will not let her down again. I feel so bad I allowed her to get hurt.” All the girls smiling at that comment. Scootaloo’s chest was welling up with warmth, her feelings were making it hard for her to keep her composure.

‘You never have to apologize for that Rainbow Dash, I already forgive you.’ Scootaloo’s breathing getting a bit hitched at the conversation going on, and the kind words being said about her by Rainbow Dash. Next Pinkie Pie Spoke up.

“Dashie..” Pinkie said.

“Pinkie Pie..” Dash looked at the party pony flatly. “Please stop calling me that, at least for the time being.”

“Why Rainbow Dash?” Asked Pinkie Pie.

“My mother called me that..”

“Oh.. I’m sorry Rainbow Dash, I didn’t mean too... I didn’t know.” She looked away upset.

Rainbow Dash just shrugged it off waving a dismissive hoof to the pink pony. “It’s ok Pinkie Pie, you didn’t know. Now what was your question?” She pushed the thoughts of the ‘pet name’ out of her mind.

“Well Dashi... Er Rainbow Dash, I want to still know. After Scootaloo’s injury heals up, what are your plans then?”

“Well Pinkie... I..I am not too sure yet, but how about we deal with that when it happens alright?” The pink pony nodded and sat back down. Applejack spoke up.

“Rainbow Dash, ya’ll know Scootaloo has schoolin she has ta return to tomorrow right?” The pegasus turned to look at the farm pony then she put a hoof to her chin in thought.

‘Hmm, I hadn’t thought about that.’ She looked back to Applejack. “What do you suggest I do Applejack?”

“Well since ya’ll are takin care of the filly, Ah think it would be only fittin if ya helped with her schoolin too.”

“I agree Applejack.” Said Twilight. “You are doing a find job so far of tending to her wound, I think it’s time you took on a bit more responsibility.” Dash just sat on the couch in silence, her fore legs crossed looking down into them in thought.

“I.. dunno girls.” Dash said nervously “I am not sure that I am ready for this.”

Rainbow was sitting in the living room of her parents cloud house playing with her stuffed pegasus toys.

“What are you playing Dashie dear?” Rainbows mother said as she walked in. She sat on the sofa and read a book as Rainbow played with her toys on the floor.

“Well I’m the mommy pegasus, and my Soarin toy is the daddy pegasus and the Spitfire toy is the baby pegasus.” Rainbow looked up at her mother and smiled.

“Well, when you get older maybe you will be a real mommy pegasus.” Skylight said as she looked up from her book.

“Yeah! That sounds fun! And, and I could have a real foal! and...and..and-” Rainbow could have continued on in her excitement but her mother cut her off.

“Well you will need responsibility.” Her mother smiled at her.

“I have responsibles! I has lots of responi...respons, resphon..”

“Well, if you are so responsible Dashie, you would have noticed your daddy pegasus fell through the cloud.” Skylight giggled.

“Wait what! No! Soarin!” Rainbow’s eyes started to tear up.

“Oh Rainbow, don’t worry, I’ll make you another one after I finish the one for your sister.”

“Dash...dash....Rainbow Dash...”

“Rainbow!” Twilight yelled into Rainbow’s ear. Dash snapped back in shock.

“Wha.. Whoa! Ahh! What the hay Twilight?” Dash snapped rubbing the side of her head a slight headache coming on.

“Well Rainbow Dash, you kinda zoned out there for a second. Now, have you made a decision?” Twilight said walking back over to her desk. Rainbow sat again in silence. The recent memory filling her head along with Twilights words, it took her a few moments to come to a decision, but she felt like it was time for at least this.

“Yes Twilight I have..” She stood up and let out a breath. “I’ll do it, but I... uh. Well I could use a little help”

“I think we can do that right girls?” The other smiled and agreed.

“Yup, mah door is always open ta ya Rainbow Dash.” Applejack smiled.

“Darling you need not have to worry, I will always offer my assistance.” Rarity added.

“And Sugar Cube Corner is always open for you Dashi, Dash!” Pinkie added.

“I could offer my assistance, that is if you want it.” Fluttershy offered.

Rainbow Dash looked around at her friends and smiled thankful of their willingness to help her. “Thanks guys, I really appreciate this.” The others smiled and nodded.

“Ugh. School..” Scootaloo cringed. The other two fillies giggling. Scootaloo rolled her eyes at the two and huffed. “Pfft.. Whatever.”

“So Uh.. What should I tell her girls?” Dash wondered.

“Well Rainbow Dash,” Twilight responded first. “No more late nights for her. She will need her rest for school.” Rarity cut in.

“And you’re going to have to help her with her homework darling.” Applejack was the next to say something.

“Yer gonna need ta set some house rules, like chores ta teach Scootaloo some responsibility, and keep that place of yers clean. We all seen how ya keep it haven’t we girls?” The others nodded and looked at Dash, the pegasus just rolled her eyes and waved them off.

“Yeah, yeah, next?”

“And don’t forget to make rules about candy! Too much candy can cause a tummy ache! And we should throw Scootaloo an adoption party!” Pinkie said overly enthused. Dash giving the party pony a scowled look at the last part.

“Pinkie! What the hay? I thought we discussed this already? Horseapples, don’t you ever stop to think first?”

“Oh like you do right Rainbow Dash?” Twilight said smugly. Dash shot her an angry look.

“Twilight! That was different!” She snapped trying to defend herself.

“No its not Rainbow Dash, Although I will give it to you, what Pinkie said is off topic.” She looked to the pink pony and shook her head. Pinkie just blushed embarrassed, she then shrugged and held her hooves up in front of her.

“Sorry” Twilight just waved a hoof and returned to Dash.

“But, you need to also learn to think before YOU act too Rainbow Dash.” Applejack walked over to Twilight and set a hoof on her shoulder.

“Alright calm down there Twilight, Ah think Rainbow Dash understands what yer gettin’ at dont’cha Dash?” Rainbow sat down crossed her hooves and looked away then huffed.

“Yeah, I understand.” She pointed at Twilight and gave her an upset look. “But, she does not have to keep bringing it up!”

“Ah know Rainbow Dash, but Ah think Twilight is just tryin ta prove her point,” She looked over to Twilight and gave her a displeased look. “But Ah think sometimes she goes a little overboard with it. Isn’t that right Twilight?” The lavender unicorn looked away shyly and blushed embarrassed.

“S-sorry Rainbow Dash I..I got carried away for a moment.” Dash just waved her off with a hoof.

“Don’t worry about it Twilight.” Dash shrugged and stood up. “Well if theres anything else?” The others shook their heads. “Okay then, well.. It’s getting late and I need to get Scoots bandage changed, also there was a storm planned for tonight and I want to get us back to my place before it starts. So I’ll see you girls later.” The others nodded and waved goodbye making their way out.

Spike walked up behind stack of fillies. “What are you guys up to?” He asked, causing all 3 of them to jump and fall over into a pile.

“Ow!” Scootaloo said as she stood up rubbing her head, “Hey spike, we were just uh, er, uh...” Scootaloo was cut off by an instant interjection into the conversation from Sweetie.

“Hi Spike!” She chirped, getting very close to him.

“Uh, hi?”

“What’s a handsome dragon like yourself doing here?” Sweetie said, trying to sweet talk him.

“Uh, ok then, uh....” Spike stepped back, Sweetie stepped closer. Spike blushed. “Uh, personal space Sweetie.” Spike said, he fell backwards and Sweetie continued to get closer.

Sweetie Giggled as spike fell. “You need to be more careful spike, also, you think I’m sweet?” She said, and blushed.

Scootaloo stuck her tongue out and looked away making a gagging sound, Applebloom just sat there with her hooves to her face giggling.

“I uh, I didn’t say, er uh, Sweetie I-” Sweetie raised her hoof in front of spikes mouth.

“Shhh, be silent, this moment will be perfect.” She removed her hoof and leaned in closer to his face, inches away, now only a breath away and-

“Sweetie Belle!” Rarity yelled as she opened the door.

“Oh Come On!” Sweetie Shrieked as Rarity pulled her out the door.

“I am ever so sorry Twilight, you understand.” Rarity said dragging Sweetie farther and farther away from her love. Twilight looked over to spike his face flushed he titled his head sideways and raised his claws up in front of him. Sweetie Belle looked to her sister.

“Hey sis, can Applebloom stay the night?

“Promise me you two will not cause problems? Applebloom and Sweetie both answered.

“We promise Rarity.” They both smiled. Rarity looked over to Applejack

“Is it ok with you Applejack?” The farm pony nodded.

“Sure Rarity, Applebloom can stay with her filly friend tonight.” She walked over to her little sister. “Ya’ll be good for Rarity tonight ya hear? Ah don’t want ta hear ya’ll gave her a hard time now.” Applebloom nodded and smiled at her sister.

“Ah promise sis, Ah’ll be good fer Rarity.” Applejack smiled.

“Thats good, now go on have a good time with Sweetie Belle tonight.” Applebloom waved goodbye to her sister and followed Rarity and Sweetie Belle out. Dash and Scootaloo were about to make their way out. Applejack walked over to the two.

“Dash Can Ah speak with Scootaloo for a moment.” Dash stopped and got a bit nervous, she looked back to the farm pony and raised an eyebrow in question.

“Wha...What about Applejack?” She looked to Scootaloo who was now looking at her with a curious expression.

“Don’t worry Dash, it’s not about that.” Dash let out a sigh of relief.

“Okay Applejack, I’ll go talk with Twilight for a few minutes then. She walked over to the unicorn and started a conversation with her. While Dash talked with Twilight about the next Daring Do book due to be published next month Applejack walked over to Scootaloo.

“Scootaloo could you come with me please? We need to talk.” The filly gulped and nodded following the farm pony into the reading room. Applejack montioned for Scootaloo to go sit on the couch nodded and nervously walked over to it and flopped on to it waiting for Applejack to come over. Applejack took one last glance over to Dash from the door then closed it walking over to the filly, she sat down and made herself comfortable and set her gaze on Scootaloo. A few moments of nervous silence was all it took for Scootaloo to speak up.

“What did you want to talk to me about Applejack? The filly asked sitting on the couch her hooves nervously clopping one another. Applejack remained silent for a moment then spoke.

“Ah know ya was listening in when me and Dash was speakin alone in the lobby.” Scootaloo looked at the farm pony in shock she started to sputter.

“W-what? n-no! I-I wa-was not listening in!” Applejack held up a hoof.

“Stop Scootaloo.” The filly went silent again looking down to her hooves. “Ah’m not mad or upset at ya.” Scootaloo let out a sigh of relief. “Ah know yer hiding something, and Ah want to know what it is.” Scootaloo looked away.

“Applejack, I...I can’t tell you I’m sorry. Please don’t force me.” Applejack shook her head.

“Not about ya past Scootaloo, about ya feelings. Ah can tell somethin is buggin ya, and Ah promise not to tell anypony else okay?” Scootaloo remained silent for a moment, she then turned and let out a breath.

“I...I” She looked down again her ears falling back. “I love her Applejack.” Applejack only smiled and laid a hoof on the fillies shoulder.

“Ah kinda figured that.” Scootaloo looked up to Applejack surprised.

“Y-you did? B-but how?

“Ah can see how ya been looking at Dash, its the same way mah sister looks at me when she needs help or wants ta show affection. Ah know yall is an orphan Scootaloo, and Ah’ve seen for a long time the loneliness in yer eyes,” Scootaloo looked down. “But the day Ah saw you and Rainbow Dash jokin around in front of mah stand. Ah saw happiness, Ah saw hope in yer eyes,” The fillies ears perked up and she felt the warmth grow in her chest again. “And it made me happy.” The filly was getting misty eyed. She rubbed her eyes with her hooves.

“I’m scared Applejack.” The farm pony raised an eyebrow.

“Scared? Of what Scootaloo?"

“I am afraid of telling Dash how I feel and she gets upset at me.” Applejack stood up and sat on the couch next to Scootaloo.

“Ah don’t ya worry none Scootaloo. Ah feel Dash won’t get upset with ya over nuthin.” Scootaloo looked up to the farm pony a small smile tugging at her lips.

“Really?” Applejack nodded.

“Yup Ah know,” She booped Scootaloo on her nose. “And I bet you also know too dont’cha?” Scootaloo rubbed the back of her head with a hoof and chuckled blushing a bit.

“Heh, heh, yeah.” Applejack got up off the couch and walked to the door.

“Dont’cha worry now Scootaloo, I feel when yall are ready ta talk about it, Dash will be ready to listen.” She smiled and beckoned the filly over. “Come on now, lets get ya back to Dash. Shes out there waiting for ya.” the filly smiled at that and got up off the couch and walked over to Applejack.

“Thanks Applejack, I feel better telling somepony that.” Applejack smiled and ruffled the fillies mane.

“Mah pleasure Scootaloo, glad Ah could help.” She opened the door, and Dash toppled in front of the two onto the floor.

“Dash, what were ya just doin? Ya weren’t spyin’ were ya?” Applejack gave Rainbow a stern look.

Rainbow looked up from the floor and gave a very embarrassed blush.

“No!” She said defensively. “I was just uh, leaning against the wall you see, I didn’t know there was a door here! Honest!” Dash got up from the floor.

“Mhmm, and you just happened to choose this here door to lean up against?” Applejack had caught her, there was almost no way out.

Scootaloo gave Rainbow a bit of an upset look. “You didn’t hear anything...” She drew circles in the floor with her forehoof a few times “...Did you?”

Rainbow rolled her eyes. “No, I was just starting to liste-” She stopped herself as she received glares from the other two. “Heh heh, oops.” Rainbow said blushing.

“Well anyways Ah’ll see you two later.” She looked over to Scootaloo “Take care of yourself kid.” Scootaloo nodded and walked up to Dash helping her to her hooves. She then Looked at Dash and chuckled. Dash again rolling her eyes then waving the farm pony off with a hoof.

“Come on squirt we need to be getting on home.” Scootaloo liked the sound of that.

‘Home.. Yeah, I like the sound of that.” Scootaloo smiled then walked over to Dash and climbed on her back. “Ok Rainbow Dash, I am ready to go home.” She smiled again she really liked the sound of it. Dash hearing the filly say that felt a warm feeling in her chest.

‘Pony, it sure does feel good to hear that from her.’ She smiled at the filly and waved goodbye to Twilight, then walked out the door and lept into the sky making her way for her home in the clouds, A storm looming in the evening sky.

****

Upon arriving at the Could home Dash and Scootaloo made inside just as the first waves of rain started to come down.

“Whew that was close Scoot, we almost got soaked there.” She let the filly slide off her back.

“Yeah I know Dash, we almost got soaked there.” She stretched a bit. “I’ll go wait on the couch Rainbow.” Dash nodded to the filly as she walked over to the couch and made herself comfortable.

“Ok squirt lets get that bandage changed.” She pulled out the bag from under her table and set it on top pulling out the needed supplies. “Also, I need to lay down some ground rules since you’re going to be staying with me for the next few days.” Scootaloo looked at Dash, she overheard some of it, but didn’t really want to hear the rest.

“Awww rules.. really Dash?” she sat up and crossed her forelegs and huffed.

“Yes rules squirt, the girls said it would show you some responsibility.” She peeled the bandage off the fillies leg, this time though slower as to not pull on the tiny bristles of fur growing back. “Yep, first, No more staying up late Scootaloo, you have school tomorrow, and will need your rest.” The filly whined.

“Aww come on! But Dash...”

“No buts squirt, Second, You will have some chores around the house.” Scootaloo threw her hooves up in the air.

“What!? Come on Dash!” The pegasus just smiled and chuckled slipping on a hoof glove grabbing the salve.

“Nope sorry, time for you to help around here too squirt, its only fair.” Scootaloo groaned.

“And last, You will have to listen to what I say okay?” Scootaloo fidgeted nervously.

“O-okay Dash..”

“What’s wrong Scootaloo? Did I say something wrong?” Dash dabbed the medicine on the fillies wound and grabbed the tape and a clean bandage. Scootaloo just pawed at the couch drawing circles.

“Dash I-I..I’m not ready to talk about myself yet.” Dash looked up and remembered.

“Don’t worry Scoot, I will not force you too. It’s just if I ask you to do something please work work with me on it okay?” Scootaloo let out a sigh of relief and nodded.

“Okay Rainbow Dash I will.” Rainbow finished up repacked the supplies in the bag and slid it under the table. “So ya hungry Scootaloo?”

“A little.” She got up off the couch and the two made their way to the kitchen. “What’s for dinner?” Dash floated up to a cupboard.

“Nothing special squirt, I’m a little tired.” She let out a yawn while searching. “How does apple's sound?” Scootaloo too let out a yawn after Dash had.

“Pony, that’s contagious, and yeah, apple’s sound fine.” She sat back in the chair and stretched her fore legs extending them upwards.

“Ok Scoot here ya go,” She tossed a apple to the filly. Then went to the table and sat down herself and took a bite of her apple. Leaning back for a moment she looked out the window. “Pony thats one nasty storm outside. Didn’t think we needed a storm so big tonight.” Scootaloo stopped eating her apple to look out the window herself.

“Yeah you’re right, that is a pretty big storm.” Just then a crash of lightning and a boom of thunder a moment later caused the filly to flinch. “H-heh, good thing we are inside.” The filly finished her apple and tossed the core away. Dash frowned at Scootaloo.

“Scootaloo!” The filly looked over to Dash with confused look.

“Yes Rainbow?” Dash pointed to the apple core.

“Pick that up squirt, you know where it belongs. The floor is not a trashcan, and I don’t want to litter the ground beneath my house.” Scootaloo grumbled and walked over to the apple core, she picked it up and tossed it into the trash. Dash smiled. “That better Scoot.” letting out another yawn Dash got up from the table and stretched extending her wings to let them stretch too. “Ok Scootaloo I am beat. Come on, lets hit the hay.” The filly nodded and followed Dash to her room. “Scootaloo you got a bed of your own now so I want mine back!” She chuckled. Scootaloo laughed and hopped into her new bed.

“Goodnight Rainbow Dash, see you in the morning.” She stretched and moved around a bit to get comfortable, then laid her head onto her pillows and closed her eyes.

“Good night Scootaloo,” Dash said rolling over onto her side to get comfortable. “Sleep tight.” She let out yet another yawn then closed her eyes, after a little while the two pegasus’s drifted off to sleep. The sounds of a fierce storm raging outside.

Scootaloo was floating on the surface of the water, it was dark and there was a storm raging. The waves pushed Scootaloo about. She opened her eyes, returning from unconsciousness. It was raining.

“Aero!” Scootaloo said as she struggled to stay above the water. The waves crashed against her pushing her into the water. A flash of light revealed Aero floating nearby, a boom shook Scootaloo.

“Aero!” Scootaloo shouted as she swam to him.

A wave crashed into her pushing her under, she inhaled water.

Popping back up to the surface and spitting out water she cried out again. “Aero!”

She eventually managed to make her way over to Aero who was floating unconscious in the water.

“Aero.” Scootaloo said as she pulled him close with a forehoof.

“Aero, Aero wake up, come on wake up!” Scootaloo said, she started to get frantic.

“Come on Aero, don’t do this to me, wake up!” There was a crack of thunder and Scootaloo flinched.

“Aero! Please, wake up...please.” Scootaloo’s eyes began to tear up, though you would be unable to tell from the torrent of rain that was pelting her face.

“Aero please.........please.” She looked at him, he wasn’t moving.

“no....no, Aero wake up!” Scootaloo was now crying. “Come on, please!” She was unable to keep her composure, she leaned her head down onto him and started crying even more.

“Aero, I’m sorry, I am so sorry! I l-lo-o, love y-you, p-please, don’t die, not now, please!” With no response Scootaloo continued to cry, floating in the water, no land in sight.

“I’m sorry, I am so sorry Aero, its all my fault.” Scootaloo then noticed he was breathing, barely, but he was breathing.

“Oh thank Celestia, Aero, just hold on a bit longer an-” Scootaloo was cut off by a flash of light followed by a loud boom and water splashing into her face.

Scootaloo was tossing and turning in bed, the storm outside was terrible and it was probably not helping at all. There was a bright flash of lightning and a loud boom that occurred very near to the cloud home. Rainbow was unphased by this, Scootaloo however was shocked awake.

“Aero!” She said as she jumped up, gasping for breath.

She looked out the window from her bed to see a massive storm raging. A flash of light and a loud boom sealed it in the young fillies mind that she was unsafe. She started to hiccup in stress.

She tried to lay back down, to no avail, the continuing thunder and lightning scared her. She got up out of bed and gingerly made her way over to Rainbow’s bed.

“R-Rain*hic*bow.” Scootaloo whispered, she then tapped Rainbow’s shoulder with her forehoof. “R-Rain *hic* b-bow w-wake *hic* up.”

Rainbow stirred, rolling over pulling her covers over her head.

“R-rainbow, p-plea*hic*please wake up!” Scootaloo shoved Rainbow now, nearly pushing her out of her bed. Rainbow opened her eyes to see an orange filly staring at her, she nearly jumped.

“S-scootaloo? What time is it?” Rainbow looked over to a small clock, she couldn’t read it because it was too dark.

“I-I am *hic* It’s n-nothing, I, I’m s-sorry I *hic* woke *hic* y-you.” Scootaloo’s ears fell and her head lowered.

“Something is wrong, what’s wrong Scootaloo?” Rainbow asked, instantly getting her answer when a flash of lightning followed by a loud boom occurred.

Scootaloo flinched and hiccuped.

“I *hic* d-don’t *hic* l-like *hic* s-s-storms *hic*” Scootaloo said, now panicking.

“Oh Scoots, it’s fine, it’s just a storm, nothing to be worried about, we are perfectly safe in our little cloud home.”

‘Our Home...’ Scootaloo smiled a bit before she flinched at another boom of thunder.

“You’re still scared aren’t you?” Rainbow asked, she remembered her own experiences as a filly during a storm. Rainbow seemed to space out for a moment but quickly regained her composure when another boom of thunder scared Scootaloo to the point that she collapsed to the floor and she threw her hooves over her head.

“Alright, come up here, I’ll, uh, tell you a story or something, maybe that’ll make you feel better.” Rainbow said, she gestured for Scootaloo to come up onto the bed.

“O-oh *hic* kay.”

Scootaloo climbed up onto the bed and walked in a circle a few times before laying down next to Rainbow.

“Alright, now, a story, or something, uh....you want to hear a story?”

“Okay *hic* th-that sounds *hic* good.” Scootaloo flinched as yet another boom of thunder rang throughout the house.

“Well, uh, there once was a pegasus, and she watched all of the other pegasus fly, but she never was able to fly herself-”

“Th-that sounds *hic* like m-me” Scootaloo said, she looked at Dash.

Rainbow smiled and continued her story. “So one day she decided she was going to learn how to fly and become a great flier like the other pegasi, so uh.....she started to train herself on the ground, she would hover and stuff...”

Scootaloo yawned, she tried to keep her eyes open, but she could not, Rainbow’s story, as bad and fabricated as it was, was giving Scootaloo the comfort she needed to fall asleep.

“...so, she finally flew, so she went to-, Scootaloo, are you listening?” Rainbow looked down at Scootaloo who was now sleeping comfortably in her bed.

“Scoots? Oh alright, I guess you can sleep here tonight.” Rainbow said, Scootaloo stirred.

“Thanks Dash” She whispered incoherently.

Rainbow smiled, she pulled the cover up over Scootaloo with her mouth and then laid down herself pulling the covers over her.

“Goodnight Scootaloo, sleep tight.” Rainbow said. Several moments later however, she couldn’t help but notice her bed was shaking, but it wasn’t her bed. It was Scootaloo.

“Scoots? Are you ok?” The only answer she got was that of Scootaloo breathing.

‘She must be cold.’ Rainbow thought observing that she had accidentally pulled the covers off of Scootaloo when she laid down.

‘The blanket is only big enough for one of us, maybe...’ Rainbow got closer to Scootaloo and extended her wing out.

‘This should be nice and warm.’ Rainbow thought as she put her wing over Scootaloo. The filly instantly grabbed the wing and pulled it around herself, her sleeping body mistaking the wing for a blanket.

Rainbow let out a grunt as Scootaloo tugged on her wing.

‘There, all better, sorta.’ Rainbow thought, she then laid her head down on her pillow.

‘I’ll never let anything happen to you Scoots, I promise.’

And with that final thought, Rainbow joined Scootaloo in a deep slumber.

Orange Memories Part I

Chapter Four
Orange Memories
Part One:
Old Wounds Cut Deep

Written By[
Enlistedpony & Secret_Shadows
Edited by avorin

Rainbow Dash woke the next morning to the sight of the sun shining in through her bedroom window, the previous night's storm now gone. She was about to get up, but then she felt something warm resting against her side. Taking a moment to remember last night she looked down to her side and saw what it was. A small orange filly nestled comfortably under her wing letting out quiet gentle snores. ‘Gosh she sure does look adorable.’ Rainbow thought as she smiled looking at the young pegasus laying alongside her. Next as if compelled by an unknown feeling, she absentmindedly began to gently rub the fillies mane causing her to scrunch up closer to the cyan mare. Rainbow losing herself in the moment let her emotions take over. She scooped Scootaloo tighter into her wing in a protective manner as if this filly were her own.

The orange filly fidgeted a little bit in the new embrace, she scrunched up her hind legs to get them under Rainbow’s wing. She then reached out with her fore legs and laid them over top of the wing gently pressing down on it trying to pull it more securely around her. “MMMmm.. Too early.” She said sleepily. Dash just smiled at the comment, but finally regaining her senses she knew she needed to get Scootaloo ready for school.

“Come on Scoot, time to get up. We need to get you ready for school.” She said and started to nudge the filly. After a few moments of nudging Scootaloo finally stirred and looked up at Rainbow Dash with sleepy eyes.

“Aww.. Just a couple more minutes Dash?” She pleaded, her eyes slowly closing again. Dash smiled.

“Ok squirt, I’ll give ya thirty more minutes, then you need to get up okay?” The filly put on a happy sleepy face and curled up next to her getting herself comfortable.

“Thanks Dash, you’re the best!” She then laid her head back down along Rainbows side and drifted off to sleep. A happy look on her face.

“Heh.. No problem Scoot. And yeah, I am the best aren’t I?” She said then laid her head down on her pillow letting herself drift off to sleep. A couple hours later though, Dash shot her head up.

“Horseapples! Get up Scootaloo!” Dash flung the filly up from under her wing. Scoot flopping down on her back on the bed.

“Wha... huh?” She said rubbing her eyes.

“You’re gonna be late for school Scootaloo!”

“Oh no!” She quickly shrugged off her sleepiness and got up off the bed. “I’m up! I’m up!” She said and looked at the clock, she then let out a displeased sigh. “Dash..”

“What is it Scootaloo?”

“I don’t have to be in school for couple hours.” Dash looked at the clock herself and noticed the filly was right.

“ Heh.. Sorry squirt.” She rubbed the back of her neck with a hoof. “I let us sleep in a little late. Anyway, now that you're up, lets get you ready for school.” She got up off the bed and stretched then let out a yawn and opened her wings fanning them out, and then wiggled them a bit. “Ahhh.. Thats better. I’m gonna go freshen up Scoot, you need to too.” The filly cocked an eyebrow in question.

“Freshen up? Like take a bath or something?” Dash looked back to the filly with a confused look on her face as if she didn’t really understand what she ment.

“Well yeah...” She said sarcastically. “You need to get ready for school and being clean is a good idea. Don’t need you smelling like a sweaty little filly walking into school. Come on, you first.” Scootaloo groaned and threw her hooves in the air in protest.

“Aww come on! Really Dash? Do I have to?” Dash gave Scootaloo a displeased look and walked back over to her.

“Yes you do. Don’t make me have to sit there and make sure you take one.” Scootaloo backed off reluctantly. “Ohh no you don’t” Dash said and grabbed a hold of the her tail and dragged the filly into the bathroom, Scootaloo kicking and screaming on the way.

“Dash come on! I don’t wanna!” The filly said as she was dragged into the bathroom. Dash spit her tail out and closed the door locking it.

“Ok squirt the only way you’re getting out of here is after you take a bath!” Rainbow went over to the tub and began to run some warm water letting the tub fill up. She then returned to the young filly sitting down with her forelegs crossed pouting. “Come on Scoot, don’t be so glum. I’ll get the fun bubble bath soap.” Dash floated up to a cabinet and pulled out a bottle with a picture of bubbles on it. “Ah ha! Here we go!” She said and floated back down to the tub filling it with the bubbly soap. She then set the bottle down on the side of the tub. Scootaloo remained in her pouty posture still sitting on the floor, her hooves crossed.

“I don’t wanna Dash!” Rainbow was now losing her patience, she walked up to Scootaloo.

“Okay no more games, time to take a bath!” She hovered over to Scootaloo and scooped her up in her hooves and made her way over to the tub, Scootaloo flailing her appendages as the two floated in the air.

“Dash, come on! Put me down! I don’t wanna take a bath!” Scootaloo protested, but to no avail she was getting closer to the tub. Once they made it over Dash tried to place Scootaloo in, but she spread her legs out and placed them on the sides of the tub knocking the bottle of soap to the floor spilling it.

“Come on Squirt don’t fight it, I am only trying to help you.” Dash said pushing on the fillies back, but seeing as how this was getting her nowhere, she next tried to lift the filly up and lower her in. However, she made a fatal mistake. Instead of trying to hover up a bit higher and raise Scootaloo up then try to lower her back in. She tried to stand up on her hind legs using the side of the tub for support and pick the filly up that way to try lowering her in. This was a bad idea because as soon as she landed, her hoof came in contact with the soap that had been spilled on the floor and she slipped. “Horseapples!” Was the only thing she was able to say before falling head first into the tub. Scootaloo then hopped off the side of the tub and fell down on the floor laughing.

“Ahahaha..Have a nice trip Rainbow Dash?” The filly said laughing hysterically. Dash meanwhile has just popped her head up from under the water and bubbles. her forelock drenched and matted over her face, she had a displeased look on it.

Dash then let out a huff rolling her eyes. “Oh ha ha.. Laugh it up.” Dash remarked. Scootaloo meanwhile had totally ignored the comment as she was still caught up in her laughter, but what she also didn’t notice was a pair of hooves slip around her until it was too late. *Splash!* Is what had happened after Rainbow had let go of her and let the filly drop into the water. A moment later Scootaloo emerged on the surface. “Decided to drop in eh Scootaloo?” Dash said sarcastically bursting into laughter. Scootaloo instead of getting upset, she started laughing alongside Rainbow Dash.

“Ahahaha! Good one Dash! Ya got me!” She happily replied splashing a bit of water at the cyan mare.

“Hey! Who’s the one supposed to be taking a bath here?” Dash said returning the splash back to the filly. The two splashing and giggling enjoying each other company as if they were two of the same. After a few minutes of playful splash fighting Dash held up a hoof signaling to Scootaloo she was finished. “Okay Scootaloo, time to get cleaned up playtime’s over...even though I really enjoyed it, we need to get you ready for school.” Dash hopped out of the tub and shook herself vigorously splashing water everywhere. Scootaloo threw her hooves up over her face as a reflex to the water being tossed her way.

“Lets get you cleaned up Scoot.” Dash said making her way over to the tub. She started to help scrub and brush the filly clean then helped her out of the tub. Scootaloo mimicked Dash’s style of drying herself off by shaking herself vigorously splashing water everywhere. She blushed embarrassed as she saw the now drenched face of Rainbow Dash looking back at her. “Thanks Scoot.”

“Hehe.. Oops.” She said shyly rubbing a hoof to the back of her neck. “Sorry Dash.” Rainbow waved her off and walked over to a cabinet to get a towel to dry herself off.

“Brush your teeth Scootaloo, then meet me in the living room so I can put a fresh bandage on your leg.” Scoot walked over to the sink and was about to brush her teeth, but remembered this was not her home.

“Rainbow Dash?”

“Yeah Scootaloo? She said turning back to look at her.

“I don’t have a tooth brush here.”

“Thats ok, you can use mine.” She walked back over to Scootaloo and reached into the medicine cabinet and pulled out hers. “Here you go, don’t forget to wash it off after you’re done and put it back in the cabinet.” Scootaloo nodded and began to brush her teeth. “When you’re done meet me down stairs.”

“Okay Rainbow Dash” She replied and returned to brushing. Dash left and made her way downstairs to wait for Scootaloo. A few moments later Scootaloo walked down the stairs and over to the couch flopping down onto it. “Hows it look today Dash?” She wondered getting comfortable on the couch. Rainbow leaned over to inspect it

“Hmmm...Looking good Scoot. I am no doctor, but a few more days and I think we can go back to the hospital to get the stitches removed.” She pulled the bag out from under the table “Hold still and I’ll have this patched up in ten seconds flat!” She proclaimed slipping on a hoof glove then reaching for the salve.

“Rainbow Dash.”

“What is it Scootaloo?” She asked lightly dabbing the salve on the wound.

“I need to go to the treehouse and get my stuff.”

“Can’t you get it after school?” She replied applying a new bandage.

“No Dash, my school stuff is there along with my scooter, and I want to get that.” Dash finished up and slipped the bag back under the table and the filly hopped up off the couch.

“Okay Scoot then why don’t we drop in on Applejack and then pick up your stuff, cause I don’t really feel like making breakfast this morning.”

“Alright that sounds good to me Dash.” The filly replied snickering a bit. “Not the homemaker type eh Dash?” Rainbow lowered her eyebrows and gave her a displeased look.

“Pfft.. Whatever.” She said rolling her eyes, “Come on, lets go.” She said making her way to the door the filly following. After a brief flight through the cool morning sky, Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo landed at the the gates of Sweet Apple Acres.

****

Rainbow Dash walked up to the door of the Apple home and knocked, a few moments later a red stallion opened the door.

“Howdy Rainbow Dash.” Big Macintosh said and smiled at the cyan mare. “What brings ya’ll down ta mah farm this mornin’?” He then noticed Scootaloo on the pegasus back. “Oh howdy Scootaloo Ah didn’t see ya, how ya doing?”

“Heya Big Mac, we are doing good, just coming to get my stuff from the treehouse.”

“Is Applejack here?” Asked Dash. Big Mac nodded and pointed up stairs.

“Eyup, She’s upstairs gettin’ Applebloom ready fer school. Why don’tcha go up and say hello?” He then headed for the door. “Ah gotta be gettin’ ta work, so Ah’ll see yalls two later.”

“Okay thanks Big Mac, see you later!” Dash then waved goodbye to Big Mac as he walked out the door. The two pegasus's then made their way up the stairs to Applejacks room. Once they got there Dash knocked on her door.

“Come on in it’s open.” Came the reply from behind the door. Rainbow opened the door to see Applejack sitting on her bed talking with Applebloom. “Hey ya’ll two what brings yall down ta mah farm this mornin’.”

“Hello Applejack, we stopped by to pick up some stuff from the treehouse,” Dash said. “And heh.. Possibly some of your tasty apple pancakes.” The farm pony just smiled and got up off the bed and made her way over to Rainbow.

“Still havin’ trouble cookin stuff Ah gather?” Dash nodded.

“Yeah a bit, but I’m getting better.”

“You cooked that fish we had the other night for dinner pretty well Rainbow Dash. I really enjoyed it.” Scootaloo added. Rainbow smiled and nudged the filly with a wing.

“Thanks Scoot.”

“Well.. Hows about we head on downstairs and Ah’ll fix us up somthin’ ta eat.” They all smiled and then made their way downstairs to the kitchen. Dash and Scootaloo sitting next to each other, Applebloom sitting across the table watching her sister set up for breakfast.

“Hey Scootaloo.” Applebloom said. “Ya hear there is some special Cheerilee wanted ta speak wit us about today.” The young pegasus ears perked up at the comment

“Oh? What about?” Applebloom shrugged.

“Ah dunno Scootaloo, but we’re gonna find out thats fer sure. Also, Ah was gonna head over ta meet Sweetie Belle on the way ta school. Want ta come wit me?”

“Yeah that sounds great,” She looked over to Rainbow Dash. “You don’t mind if I head to school with my friends do you Rainbow Dash?” Rainbow resting her head on her hoof she was just staring out the window thinking to herself. She broke her thoughts when she felt a hoof tapping on her shoulder, “Dash is that ok?” The filly repeated herself. Dash turned to look at her.

“Hmm? Wha.. What? Oh... Sure thats fine, I’ll just sit here and chat with Applejack, then I’ll meet up with you later. Sound good?” She turned back to gazing out the window.

“Yeah Dash thats fine with me. Also, Applebloom, I need to go out to the treehouse and grab my stuff first. Then we can head over to meet Sweetie Belle. ”

“Okay Scootaloo, we can head out ta get yer things after we're done here.” Applejack around this time was in the process of mixing the batter for the pancakes.

“How many ya want Rainbow Dash?” Asked Applejack.

“I’ll take four Applejack.” Dash said afterwards returning to her thoughts.

“What about y'all two?”

“Ah’ll take two Sis.” Applebloom replied.

“Same here Applejack, I am not very hungry.” Scootaloo said. Applejack smiled and nodded and returned to her cooking.

“Okay ya’ll, give me a couple minutes and Ah’ll whip ya up yer breakfast. Applebloom can ya get our guests somethin’ ta drink please.” Applebloom smiled and nodded hopping down from her seat and walking over to the fridge.

“What can Ah get fer ya’ll two?” She asked.

“Orange juice for me please.” Said Scootaloo.

“What would ya like Rainbow Dash?” Applebloom asked, but Dash was lost in her thought, so the yellow filly walked over and tapped on her shoulder. “Rainbow Dash, Ya there?” Scootaloo gave Dash a nudge with her hoof.

“Hey Dash! Applebloom is asking you what you want to drink.” Dash shook her head clearing her thoughts.

“Oh.. Heh, heh.. Sorry Applebloom, I got lost in my thoughts there for a second.” Applejack raising an eyebrow at the comment, but kept to her cooking. “I’ll take some apple juice please.” She said and then resumed her thinking session. Applebloom nodded and walked over to the fridge and pulled out some orange juice and apple juice then walked over to the cupboard, but she was too short to get the glasses.

“Applejack, could ya get me a couple of cups down from the cupboard please? Ah can’t reach em.” Applejack looked over to her sister.

“Kinda busy at the moment Applebloom. Why don'tcha ask Dash or Scootaloo.” The yellow filly nodded and walked back to the table.

“Heya Scootaloo, could ya give me a hoof? Ah needs ya ta get me a couple cups down from the cupboard.” She then pointed to the one that had the cups in it. Scootaloo smiled and got up.

“No sweat Applebloom! Dash has been teaching me how to hover, give me a second.” The orange filly hopped up from her seat and trotted over to the counter by the cupboard. “Okay here goes!” She said and unfurled her wings making a wincing sound when she did. Dash as if she now had an orange filly in pain sensor broke from her thoughts and looked over at Scootaloo trying to stretch out her wings.

“You alright Scoot?” Dash sat up to see what she was doing.

“I’m fine Dash, just stretching my wings.” She winced again once she got them fully extended. “Uhh.. Heh yeah, I guess it hurts a little bit.” She started to flap her wings taking from Rainbows teaching letting in a breath and flapping up exhaling and flapping down. Getting a smooth rhythm she gently lifted off and slowly floated up to the cupboard.

“Thats pretty good Scootaloo, Ah could remember only seein’ ya push yerself round on ya scooter before. Seem’s Dash’s teachin is payin off pretty good!”

“Of course its working!” Dash cut in, “What better pony to teach her then me!” She proclaimed. Applejack just rolled her eyes at the remark.

“Ah could think of a lot of ponies Dash.” Applejack chuckled. Dash gave the farm pony a displeased look raising an eyebrow.

“What’s thats supposed to mean Applejack?” The country pony just laughed and returned to her cooking.

“Nothing Rainbow, Ah’m just teasing ya. Ah think ya would be the perfect pony ta show Scootaloo here how ta fly.”

“But I am the best flier in all of Equestria! Who better to teach Scoots? Right? Right?” The only response Rainbow got was the laughing of the others. She blushed in embarrassment.

“Nopony here is doubting yer abilities ta fly Dash, we are doubting yer ability ta take ah joke.” The orange farm pony said. “Anyway, Breakfast is ready!” Applejack brought the food over to the table and set it down in the center. She passed four pancakes to Rainbow Dash, two to Applebloom and Scootaloo and the last remaining ones to herself. Scootaloo at this time finally got the cups out and set them on the counter for Applebloom and landed, wincing as she folded up her wings. Dash now getting concerned by this, got up and walked over to the young pegasus.

“Scootaloo we should really get that checked, I don’t want to see it get any worse.” And she started to look over Scoots wings causing the filly to get embarrassed. She looked away blushing. The two earth ponies giggling at Scootaloo being bashful.

“Awww Dash, Don’t do that here. Come on, you’re embarrassing me.” She said shyly.

Rainbow ignored the comment as she trotted over to Scootaloo. She inspected the fillies wings, even going to the point of lifting one of them up to look at it. Scootaloo just stood there and blushed before she snapped her wings to her side and stepped back.

“R-rainbow, s-stop.”

“What? Would you rather I let it get worse, if I don’t-” Rainbow stopped when she realized exactly what she had just been doing. “Oh....” She stepped back. “Sorry, I....I wasn’t thinking, I was more concerned about your injury...I, I didn’t mean to-” Scootaloo just looked up at Dash with pleading eyes, turning away shyly keeping her wings tight to her sides. Rainbow had now realized she had gone too far seeing the expression on the fillies face, inadvertently she had crossed the line, in interest of Scootaloo’s health of course, but it was still a violation.

“Scoots, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to embarrass you, can you forgive me?” The filly looked up to Dash and gave her a weak smile.

“Dash.. I..I need a few minutes.” She looked away, her eyes starting to tear up. “Alone.” She walked out into the living room. Applejack walked over to Dash and gave her a displeased upset look.

“Applebloom, go see how Scootaloo is doin. Now.” The last part she said a bit sternly. Applebloom didn’t voice protest, she simply nodded and went out to the living room, leaving the two mares in the kitchen. “Dash what in tarnation were ya thinkin? What ya did ta Scootaloo was wrong.” Dash simply held her head down and pawed at the floor. “Scootaloo trusted ya Dash, and ya went and done broke that trust.” Applejack leaned back against the counter and crossed her forelegs. “Now Ah know ya didn’t mean ta do it Dash, but ya need ta learn that sometimes certain things are better left ta being done in private.” Rainbow looked back to her wings and Applejack nodded. “Ah think ya know what needs ta be done Rainbow Dash.” Applejack got back down on all fours and went over to the living room door and stuck her head in it. A minute later Applebloom emerged from the living room and went to sit at the table.

“She’s calmed down now Applejack.” She looked over to Rainbow Dash. “Go talk to her Rainbow Dash, Ah think she’s ready ta listen.” Dash nodded and sighed walking over to the living room door. She opened it and saw the young pegasus resting on the couch looking out the window. She walked over to the couch and sat down on it and looked down tapping her hooves together. A silence went over the two for a few moments until Dash finally got the courage to speak up.

“Scootaloo..”

“Yeah?”

“I...I’m sorry for embarrassing you, I should've known what I was doing to you was being done at the wrong time. I just kinda well..” She looked back to her hooves tapping together then a moment later back to the filly. “I broke your trust and I’m sorry. I.. I was just concerned for your well being that's all.” The two again sat in silence for a few moments until she was about to speak up, but she then felt a presence at her side. The filly had leaned up against the side of her. Rainbow was about to speak up, but Scootaloo spoke first.

“Dash you don’t have to be sorry. I forgive you,” She looked away embarrassed for a second. then rubbed the back of her neck with a hoof. “I may of overreacted myself a bit, but next time, try not to embarrass me in front of my friends okay?” She looked up at dash and smiled. Rainbow felt better now knowing the filly had forgiven her.

“Thanks Scoot. Now, what say we go get something to eat?” The filly nodded and got up off the couch and the two made their way back into the kitchen. Applejack looked at the two and seeing them together she smiled.

“Patched things up Ah take it?” Dash smiled and draped her wing over the filly.

“Yup and a lesson learned.” Scootaloo flinched when the wing touched her back, but the feeling passed quickly, replaced with a feeling of security. The only other time Dash had placed a wing over her was when she was having nightmares and couldn’t sleep. She relaxed herself and leaned against Dash closing her eyes for a moment.

“Awww.. ya’ll two look so cute standing there like that. If Ah didn’t know ya’ll two any better, Ah would thought y'all were sisters er something.” The two pegasus’s looked at one another then after a moment of silence they laughed.

“Ha! Thats a good one Applejack.” Dash said lifting her wing off the filly and then going to sit at the table Applebloom walked up and hoofed Rainbow her glass of apple juice.

“Heres ya drink Rainbow Dash.” She looked at Scootaloo standing in a daze. “Ya gonna come eat Scootaloo?” Scootaloo shook off her daze and walked over to the table and sat down. “Here ya go Scootaloo, yer drink.” She hoofed her a glass of orange juice.

“Thanks Applebloom.” The four sat in silence for a few minutes eating their breakfast until Dash spoke up.

“Applejack, mind if I come help you this morning?” Applejack almost choked on her food at this comment.

“What!? Ah never would've thought ya would offer up yer hoof ta help me. What's gotten in ta ya Dash?” Rainbow looked up from her food and raised an eyebrow.

“Nothings gotten into me AJ, I just thought you could use some help. And who better to help you then the one and only Rainbow Dash!” She proclaimed. The country pony just stared at the cyan pegasus, resting her head on a hoof.

“Uh huh, sure ya are.” She shrugged, “Well.. Ah have no problems wit ya helpin’ me Dash, but lets get these fillies off ta school first okay?”

“Sounds good.” Rainbow replied.

“Me and Applebloom are gonna head over to the treehouse first ok?” Scootaloo added. The two mares nodded. “Well I’m full,” The filly pushed away her plate. “Ready to go Applebloom?” Scootaloo said getting up from the table.

“Yup, give me a second ta finish up and we can go get ya stuff.” The yellow filly wolfed down the last of her food and let out a satisfying burp. “Oops tehehe.. Pardon me.” Applejack just laughed.

“Hah! That was a good one Applebloom. Ah guess mah cookin filled ya up good.” Applebloom smiled at her sister.

“Sure did!” She chirped then got down from her seat and made her way over to Scootaloo. “We are gonna head over ta the treehouse now okay Sis?” Applejack nodded and got up from the her table herself.

“Okay, but don’t be late fer school now ya hear?” Applebloom smiled and nodded to her sister.

“Don’tcha worry none, we’ll get there on time.” She said, after that Scootaloo and Applebloom made their way out headed off to the treehouse. A few moments later a knock came from the door. Applejack walked over to open it, Rarity and Sweetie Belle were standing there waving hello.

“Why hello Applejack how are you doing this fine morning.” Applejack smiled and tipped her hat to the white unicorn.

“Doin fine thanks. gettin’ ready ta get some applebuckin done.” Sweetie Belle walked up between the two mares.

“Hello Applejack, is Applebloom here?

“Ya just missed her Sweetie Belle, but if ya hurry, ya should be able ta catch up wit them.”

“Where did they go?” The unicorn filly asked.

“Off ta the treehouse ya three fillies hang out in. They just left, so ya should be able ta catch up wit em.” Sweetie Belle nodded and raced out the door shooting past her sister spinning her like a top. Rarity came to a stop a second later with her hair all frizzed. She shrieked and held a hoof to her mouth.

“Ahh! My hair!” She was about to pass out and fall onto the ground, but just then her horn lit up, and a comfy sofa appeared out of nowhere. She landed on it throwing a foreleg over her face. Rainbow Dash and Applejack watching the site simply gave the white unicorn a flat stare then thought to themselves.

‘Pfft.. Drama queen.’ They then looked at each other, raised a hoof and shrugged.

****

Meanwhile Sweetie Belle had finally caught up to Applebloom and Scootaloo.

“Hey, wait up!” She said trying to catching her breath. The two fillies stopped just outside the treehouse and turned to look.

“Well howdy Sweetie Belle, where ya been?

“Yeah, we have been wondering where you were.” Scootaloo added. The unicorn filly walked up to Scootaloo and set a hoof to her shoulder stopping to catch her breath.

“I.. hah.. I got up a little late this morning. Sorry.” She said setting her hoof back down on the ground. “What are we doing out here?” She asked. Scootaloo walked up the ramp into the treehouse.

“I need to get my things.” She walked over to the podium and grabbed her bag slipping it on her back then she got her scooter and made her way out to the two fillies. She then stood on her scooter and flapped her wings propelling herself forward a bit. “Ahh much better. anyways lets head out girls!” Applebloom pulled up a cart and her and Sweetie Belle hopped in.

“Okay Scootaloo, We’re ready ta go. Applebloom said. Scootaloo nodded and put her helmet on, then she flapped her wings and the three sped off towards the school house. After a few moments of silence Applebloom decided to speak up.

“So Scootaloo.”

“Yes Applebloom?” Applebloom fidgeted some tapping her hooves together.

“Well... Ah was wonderin’ how ya was doin’ now that ya are livin with Rainbow Dash.” Scootaloo just shrugged.

“Fine I guess.. She takes good care of me, changing my bandage and stuff.” Applebloom looked away shyly.

“Mah sister said that the reason ya was stayin wit Rainbow Dash was because ya didn’t know who ya parents were.” Scootaloo looked down slowing up a bit.

“Did she now..”

“Yeah, but thats also the reason mah sister thinks Rainbow Dash came down ta see her this morning too.” Scootaloo perked up at this comment.

“Really? What for?” Applebloom shook her head.

“Ah dunno, but she mentioned something about Rainbow Dash probably wantin’ ta take on more responsibility or somethin.” Applebloom looked over to Sweetie Belle. “Did Rarity mention any of this ta ya Sweetie Belle?” The unicorn filly just shook her head.

“Not really, but she did say she thought Rainbow Dash has acted a lot differently ever since she started taking care of Scootaloo. Its the reason we came to Applejacks farm this morning too.” Scootaloo raising an eyebrow when she said that. “My sister wanted to talk with Applejack about something. She didn’t say, but I heard her say something about Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash and how they got along so well.” Scootaloo then resumed her pace.

“Hmm.. Thats interesting. I wonder what they are all talking about right now.”

“Dunno Scootaloo, but Ah think we can ask them after school.” Applebloom added. Scootaloo shook her head and continued onward.

“Well... Let me talk to Rainbow Dash about it, maybe she knows what's going on.” Scootaloo returned. For the rest of the trip the three just talked about random ways to get their marks. They pulled up to the school house a few moments later, oddly though the doors were closed. A gathering of random ponies and their kids were strewn about the front schoolyard. Cherrilee was seen in the distance by the doors passing out fliers. ‘I wonder what's going on here’ Scootaloo though hopping off her scooter. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle hopped out of the cart and made their way through the crowd going to see what is going on. They returned to Scootaloo a moment later with some fliers in their mouths. Applebloom took hers out of her mouth and put it in the cart. She then turned to look at Scootaloo.

“Ya need ta go get one too Scootaloo.” Scootaloo raised an eyebrow.

“Why? What is it about?” Applebloom just looked away scuffing the ground.

“Ah’ll let ya find out what it is.”

“Umm.. Okay.” She said and proceed to make her way through the crowd to Cheerilee.

“Hello Cheerilee, what's going on?” She looked around various tables were set up they were full of papers and forms, stuff Scootaloo has never seen before.

“Parent teacher conferences all this week Scootaloo.” Cheerilee said and hoofed her a flier. “No school during the conferences, but I need to speak with your parents.” Scootaloo just stared at the school teacher for a moment before Cheerilee spoke up. “Scootaloo are you okay? You look like something has scared you.” The filly shook her head and waved a hoof to her teacher.

“No.. no. Nothing is wrong.” She said timidly. “I need to umm..er.. Go talk to my parents.. Yeah thats right. See ya later Cheerilee!” She said and ran off in a hurry to get back to her scooter and her friends. “I...I need to go talk to Dash, like right now girls.” The two knowing why simply nodded.

“Ok lets go Scootaloo.” Sweetie Belle said and hopped into the cart

“Ah’m coming too!” Applebloom added and hopped in to. Scootaloo hopped on to her scooter and took off back towards Sweet Apple Acres with the two fillies in tow.

****

Okay Rainbow Dash, Ah want ya ta position the buckets around the trees and Ah’ll buck the apples into em got it?”

“I got ya Applejack, no sweat!” Dash said and zipped over to the barn and brought a few buckets back and set them around the tree. “Go for it AJ! Buck them apples.” Applejack nodded and reared up on her front legs and gave a mighty buck, A second later all the shiny red orbs fell from the tree most landing into the buckets.

“Help me pick up the apples that didn’t land in the buckets Dash.” The farm pony asked. Dash nodded and walked over to pick up some of the apples. Applejack after a few moments decided to ask a question. “Rainbow Dash?”

“Yeah Applejack?” Dash replied dropping a few apples into a bucket then turning back to get another.

“Why did ya come down ta mah farm this mornin’? Ah know it wasn’t just fer breakfast.” Dash froze and then slowly turned back to face the country mare.

“I...Umm..” She turned away shyly kicking at the ground. “Well It’s about Scootaloo.” Applejack stopped her bucking and walked over to the pegasus.

“Ah kinda figured that.” Rarity now walking up to join the conversation.

“What about her darling?” Rainbow got a little nervous.

“Well.. You girls all know I have been taking care of her and giving her a place to stay.”

“Yes we know that, and we’re all proud of you for taking care of her seeing as how she doesn’t seem to want to talk about her parents and has no place to stay.” Dash nodded and let out a breath.

“Well.. I kinda wanted your opinion on something I have been thinking about doing.”

“Adoption.” Applejack said flatly. “Is that what ya are thinkin about Rainbow Dash?” Applejack stated. The pegasus nodding nervously while sitting down tapping her hooves together. Rarity walked over to Rainbow Dash and gave her a hug.

“Darling thats wonderful! I knew eventually you would want to do this.” But Rainbow kept her head down.

“Its just..” She turned away timidly. Rarity let go of her hug and held Rainbow Dash with her outstretched forelegs.

“You’re scared is that it?” Dash nodded again.

“Well Ah gotta say this right now Rainbow Dash,” Applejack was now talking in a serious tone. “Caring for a filly is a major undertaking.” Rarity looking at Dash and nodding. “You gonna have ta take on a lot more responsibility then ya been doin now.” Dash looked up at Applejack a bit nervous.

“Like?”

“Well you’re not gonna be sleeping around on clouds or in mah trees much anymore thats fer sure.”

“Shes right Rainbow Dash, what you have been doing up to this point is all good, but actual adoption is a life changing event. Are you sure you’re ready for this dear?” Rainbow Dash just sat there staring at Rarity. She was thinking, was she really ready for this? The two mares words had hit her hard. One one hoof, she really wanted to continue taking care of Scootaloo. Having the filly in her home, and whenever she smiled at her, would give her a warm feeling inside her. A feeling she had forgotten for a long time. A feeling she so desperately now wanted again, but was afraid, even scared to show. But, on the other hoof, adoption was a very big deal. Accepting a responsibility such as this would change her life as she knew it, forever. And what of the Wonderbolts? How could she possibly follow her lifelong dream of joining the elite members of the Wonderbolts if she had to take care of Scootaloo?

For a few moments Rainbow Dash fought with her inner thoughts before a hoof tapping on her shoulder finally snapped her back to reality. “Huh? wha-what?” Rarity was shaking and tapping on Rainbows shoulders trying to get a response out of her.

“Rainbow Dash? Are you there? Hello?” Dash swatted the white unicorns hooves away.

“Yeah, yeah.. I am here Rarity. Jeeze! You don’t need to shake me to pieces.” Dash said holding her hooves to her temples rubbing them trying shake off the headache brought on by the intense thinking.

“Well Rainbow Dash, have ya figured out if ya want this or not?” Applejack asked. Rainbow looked over to her then back down to her hooves now tapping together again.

“I...I Umm.. Well.. Now that you mention it, I don’t know now. Its a very big deal for me, and I guess I might not have thought it through completely. I think I may need some more time to think about it.” Applejack walked over to Dash and rested a hoof on her shoulder.

“It’s alright ta be scared sugarcube, but don’t let it sway ya decision though. That filly looks up ta ya, and she trusts ya too. Thats a gift few are given.” She smiled at Rainbow. “And Ah’ve seen how yall and Scootaloo look at each other, and what ya did fer her, tossin ya wing over her back and pulling her close.” Dash blushed and looked away shyly, that warm feeling returning again. “Did ya see how she relaxed and leaned in ta ya when ya did it?” Dash shook her head.

“No I didn’t notice. What I did there was kinda done well... Absentmindedly.” Applejack shook her head and held up a hoof.

“No Rainbow Dash, it was not done absentmindedly.” She pulled Dash into a hug. “It was yer feelings,” She placed a hoof to Rainbows chest. “It’s yer heart talkin ta ya Dash.” Rainbow got a bit misty eyed. “And Ah think it’s about time ya should be listenin ta it.”

“I...I” She couldn’t think of what to say. Her feelings wanting to break through and embrace the filly and never let go, but the wall she had built up for so many years was strong, and she was still unsure of what she still truly wanted. Applejack looked into Rainbow Dash’s eyes and could see the struggle going on within them. She decided it was best to ease her into this decision, instead of just pushing her over the edge.

“How about we go see Twilight Rainbow Dash?” Dash looked up at Applejack confused.

“Twilight.. But why?” Rarity decided to add to the conversation.

“Darling, If you do decide you want to do this, We will need the Princess to send us the needed documents to make sure everything is all legal and correct.” Applejack looked and Rarity and nodded then looked back to Dash.

“And thats why we will need Twilight sugarcube.”

Dash nodded and stood up.

“Well should we head out then?” The three mares were about to head out, but just then Scootaloo came flying down the road with Applebloom and Sweetie Belle in tow. Scootaloo stopped a few feet from Rainbow Dash dropped her scooter and tossed off her helmet.

“Rainbow Dash! I need to talk to you now!” Scootaloo said rushing over to her.

“Woah now Scoot, what's the problem?” Scootaloo stopped by Dash and flopped down in front of her trying to catch her breath. “Also, what are you doing here Scootaloo? Aren’t you supposed to be in school?”

“Parent teacher conferences Rainbow Dash” Rarity said reading the flier Sweetie Belle hoofed to her.

‘Oh no.’ Dash thought to herself. Scootaloo finally regaining her breath looked up to Dash.

“Dash I..I need a BIG favor from you.” Rainbow already know what the filly was going to ask.

“Umm Scootaloo, you do realize I am not your parent right? I mean sure we got away with it at the hospital, but this is totally different.”

“Dash you gotta help me, please!” Scootaloo pleaded putting her hooves together. Dash gave in and sighed.

“Alright, I’ll help, sheesh calm down there Scoot.” Scootaloo jumped up happy that Dash would help her. She leaped over to the cyan mare and hugged her. Rainbow just stood there shocked.

“Oh.. Thank you! Thank you! Rainbow Dash! I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you doing this for me.” Dash smiled and patted the filly on her head, and slipped a foreleg around Scootaloo's back.

“Don’t worry Squirt, I won’t leave ya hanging.” Again that feeling rising inside her, but this time she knew what it was. It was her heart trying to reach out and comfort the young filly, and once again as if controlled by her feelings alone, she squeezed Scootaloo into her, holding on not wanting to let go. Scootaloo herself feeling that feeling of security when Rainbow was holding her like the way she was. She simply relaxed, and rested her head on Rainbows chest.

“Thank you Rainbow Dash, you don’t know how much this means to me.” She closed her eyes and let the moment take her away. Rarity, Applejack and Scootaloo’s two friends all smiling at the warm scene.

“Awww! Thats so cute! ya’ll two look so happy standing there like that.” Applebloom said, Holding on to Sweetie Belle. The unicorn filly simply smiling at the two. Applejack just leaned back against a tree and smiled.

“Way ta go Dash. Ah knew ya had it in ya.”

“Darling I am soo happy for you two!” Rarity said smiling. Rainbow let the filly go and Scootaloo stood back on her hooves.

“So we ready to go see Twilight?” Scootaloo looked back to Dash.

“Twilight? For what Rainbow Dash?” Rainbow smiled at the filly and ruffled her mane.

“Something I’ve been wanting to do for a few days now.” Scootaloo sat there thinking

‘I wonder what Rainbow Dash is talking about.’ She shrugged it off ‘Oh well, guess I’ll find out soon enough.’ She made her way over to her scooter and picked it up and was about to take off on her scooter, but when she tried to open her wings it happened. “Ow! Ow! Ow! It hurts!” She immediately snapped her wings closed taking in a breath of relief, but a throbbing pain still persisted. Dash instantly ran over to Scootaloo.

“Scootaloo! Are you alright? Please tell me what hurts. It’s not your wings again is it?” Scootaloo nodded. “Okay sorry girls what we had planned will have to wait.” The two mares nodded knowing why. “Scootaloo hop on.” Rainbow laid down. “No but’s its time.” Scootaloo walked over and got on Rainbow Dash’s back and looked at her nervously.

“Rainbow Dash” She said nervously. “Please be gentle with me. I’m a little scared.” She knew what was about to happen. Dash looked stood up and looked back on at Scootaloo.

“Don’t worry Scootaloo, I would never do anything to hurt you trust me.” Scootaloo instantly felt better that Dash was going to be as gentle as possible, but she was still nervous.

“I trust you Dash, lets go” Dash waved goodbye to the three unfurled her wings and lept into the sky shooting off towards her cloud home.

****
When Rainbow Dash landed at her cloud home she sat down allow Scootaloo to slide off her back. “Go up stairs and get on the bed Scootaloo I need to get some ice and I’ll be right up.” Scootaloo nodded and made her way up stairs and hopped on the bed waiting for Dash to arrive. A few moments later Dash arrived with a bucket full of ice and some towels. The filly nervously looked over the stuff Dash had set down on her nightstand.

“What’s all this stuff for Rainbow?” Dash go up on the bed and sat next to Scootaloo laying the towels down.

“Okay time for me to explain what’s gonna happen Scoot.” She got off the bed and walked over to her nightstand. “First scoot I need to get your wings to extend to their most outward extension, and thats what the ice is for.” She got a towel and place some ice in it and wrapped it up. “Lay on your tummy Scootaloo, also take this.” She hoofed her a piece of cork.

“What’s this for Dash?”

“Well I am not going to lie to you Scootaloo. You let your wings go far to long without preening and the old feathers are hindering the new ones from forming. So, I will have to pluck them out and it will hurt.” Scootaloo started to shake nervously “So thats with the cork is for, so you can bite down on it okay?” Scootaloo nodded and set the cork down in front of her. “Are you ready Scoot?”

“Y-yeah D-dash... Please be careful.” She laid her head down and put her hooves over it. Dash smiled and rubbed the fillie back for a moment.

“There, there Scootaloo I’ll try my best to not cause you much pain.” She then laid the ice filled towel down on Scootaloo’s back. It took a few moments for the ice’s cold feeling to make its way through the towel, but finally Scootaloo could start to feel it. She shivered for a second at the feeling as her wings started to extend. The filly picked up the cork and bit down on to it, the pain of her wings opening up and was rather intense. She closed her eyes and scrunched her face shedding a tear.

“I...It H-h-hurts D-d-Dash.” She said, her eyes starting to leak tears. Dash rubbed her head trying to comfort her.

“I know Scootaloo, and I’m very sorry, its just going to be a bit longer, hold in there, you can do it.” Finally after a few moments Scootaloo’s wings hit their full extension. “Ok let me look them over Scoot.” Rainbow got up on the bed and laid down next to scoot and started to go over the feathers lining the outermost part of her wing tip. These feathers unfortunately happen to be the most sensitive ones too. Going down a line of primaries she spotted a feather looking particularly irritated. “Ready Scoot?” The filly nodded. Dash bit down on the tip of the feather and plucked it out. Scootaloo winced at the pain retracting her wing slightly letting tears escape her eyes.

“It h-hurts”

“I know Scootaloo, I know, but I need to do this or it will just hurt worse, ready?”

Scootaloo hesitated in her response. “Y-yeah.” Dash searched around the wing and spotted another feather looking pretty sore. She singled it out and bit down plucking it out.

Scootaloo flinched again as another sore feather was plucked. She let out a wail of pain as she dropped the cork out of her mouth.

“I’m sorry sweetie, I know it hurts, just a few more.” Rainbow said. She rubbed the fillies back trying to comfort her and resumed her search. “Ok gonna check the other wing now” She got up and walked over to Scootaloo’s other side and laid back down scanning her wing. After a few moments of searching she found five of her primary feathers that needed to be pulled, and to make it even worst they were right next to each other; this would increase the pain exponentially.

Scootaloo was still leaking tears out of her eyes.

“Scootaloo, honey, this is going to hurt...a lot, ok?”

“I, I d-don’t know I-if I c-can do a-anymore of th-those.”

“I know, I know, but you have to try, you can do it, I know you can.” Rainbow said as she prepared to pluck the feathers. Scootaloo grit her teeth and then set the cork in her mouth preparing herself for what was about to happen. Dash went back over to Scootaloo’s wing and flexed it just enough to separate the offending feathers. “Here goes.” Scootaloo closed her eyes and bit down. Rainbow started to pluck the feathers out one by one without pausing in between till she reached the final feather. She looked back to the fillies face now contorted in pain. She went back and went to pluck the final feather out, but this one gave a lot more resistance and Dash had to tug on it a few times to get it to finally pop out. A little bit of blood coming from the space it used to occupy.

Scootaloo convulsed violently with the rapid plucking of the feathers, she violently spit out the cork with the last feather.

“P-please, s-stop, i-it h-hurts-s.” Scootaloo said. Rainbow could barely understand her through the tears the filly was now shedding.

“Shhh, It’s ok, it’s ok, calm down sweetie, calm down.” She rubbed Scootaloo’s back, neglecting to note that the wing was still bleeding.

Scootaloo continued to cry. She lifted her head up to look at her wing, what she saw shook her to her core. “B-blood.” Her face went pale and she got dizzy. From her point of view the room started to spin and she fainted. Dash went into a panic.

“Scootaloo! Oh No, no, no, no, no, no!” She cried. “Scootaloo! Scootaloo! Dear Celestia please be ok!” Dash picked up the fillies foreleg, frantically searching for a pulse, though not being a doctor she did not look in the right place and found no pulse.

“Scootaloo!” Rainbow stopped talking, she leaned down over the filly. “I’m so sorry, I should have stopped, Scootaloo, please, wake up, please!” Rainbow started to tear up. She feared she had just caused Scootaloo to have a heart attack. “I’m so sorry Scootaloo...” She paused, whispering the next words that came out of her mouth. “I’m sorry.” It was at this point, that Rainbow noticed she was breathing, very slowly, but she was still breathing. “Oh thank Celestia.” After a few moments Scootaloo stirred and opened her eyes.

“Rainbow Dash are you alright? Why are you crying?” Dash wiped the tears from her face and looked at the filly rather bashful.

“Heh N-no reason.. I..I just got something in my eye thats all.” She shook her head and let out a breath. “Let me take care of your little booboo.” She got up off the bed and walked down stairs to get the bag she got from the hospital, Returning a few moments later she plopped the bag down and opened it up. “Lets see if nurse Rainbow Dash can fix ya up!” Scootaloo let out a slight giggle at the remark. She pulled out a hoof glove and slipped it on grabbing the antibacterial salve and she applied a small amount to her wing. “Scootaloo, I am gonna have to wrap your wing up to let this heal okay? So you’re not gonna be flying for a little while, like a day or so until it heals got it?” Scootaloo nodded and rested her head on a pillow. She was utterly exhausted after the entire ordeal.

Rainbow grabbed a roll of bandage from the bag and gently tucked her wing in then wrapped the bandage around it. “There all set. Pony Scoot, you really look tired.” The filly nodded, her eyes slowly closing.

“Yeah Dash,” She yawned and closed her eyes “I think *yawn* I...I’m going to go to...” She yawned again before quietly finishing her sentence. “Sleep......” she trailed off, she started to contently breath in and out as she slept. Rainbow just smiled and rubbed the fillies mane watching her sleep.

“Rest now Scootaloo, you earned it.” She got up off the bed and pulled the covers over the now sleeping filly. “We’ll talk about adoption later.” She picked up the bag and made her way out closing the door behind her.

Scootaloo awoke to the sound of the waves crashing against the beach a throbbing pain coming from her back. She blinked her eyes a few times letting in the morning sun. Taking a few minutes to get her strength, she rose to her hooves and looked around, scanning the area for signs of her friend. “Aero? Where are you Aero?” There was no reply. She looked out to the sea feeling awful, but upon looking back she spotted a tuft of dark blue lying on the beach off in the distance. feeling hopeful, she started to make her way over to what she thought was her friend. It was in fact Aero lying face down in the sand. She started crying. “Oh Aero...” She felt terrible here her friend who up until now was always there for her trying his best to keep her spirits up, but now he lay lifeless on the beach She laid down on top of him and was about to cry even more, but she noticed he was still warm.

“Aero??” She rolled the pegasus over and to her overwhelming joy found he was still breathing. “Oh Aero! Thank Celestia!” She grabbed him into a hug causing the young colt to stir. He turned his head to the side spitting out a bit of sand. Scootaloo, feeling ever so happy that her friend had survived, had completely ignored him trying to clear his throat. He turned to look back at the filly holding him in a tight embrace and blushed. He was glad he was lying on his back because at least the filly wouldn’t notice his out stretched wings.

“Umm... Heh, heh Scootaloo?” He said timidly. Scootaloo shot her eyes open and looked at Aero noticing he was blushing. She blushed and got up off him and looked away bashfully.

“Heh, heh.. Sorry” She said rubbing a hoof on her neck. Aero shook his head and waved a hoof at her then rolled over and stood up. “Umm Aero?” He looked over to her.

“Yeah Scootaloo?” He raised an eyebrow in question.

“Why are your wings standing up like that?” He looked back to his flared out wings and gasped.

“Oh, uh, you see, um, its quite interesting...um, hey look a seashell!” He said pointing down a seashell on the beach.

Scootaloo kicked the seashell away and looked at him curiously. “Aero? Why are you avoiding the question?” It was clear to Aero that Scootaloo had not had ‘that’ conversation with an adult pony yet.

“I, I’m uh...” He blushed and started to sweat trying to think up an excuse. “I’m just happy to see you, I thought I had lost you after you uh, fell?” In truth he didn’t remember who fell first, but it was an excuse nonetheless.

“But you fell first-” Aero cut her off.

“Hey look your wing!” Scootaloo turned to look at her wing. It was twisted at an odd angle. “I think you might have sprained your wing there. Here, let me take a look.” He walked over to her wing and looked at it. “Yea you sprained it, but I think I can at least reset it.” Scootaloo looked at him nervously.

“Oh.. Okay.”

“Hold still Scootaloo.” He walked over to her injured wing and sat down. He then place his hooves on it causing a slight shiver to go down the fillies spine and her wings twitched.”

“Your hooves are cold Aero.”

“Well drifting in a ocean during a storm over night will do that.” He chuckled. Scootaloo was not amused. She looked back to him with a displeased look.

“Thats not funny Aero!” She then bumped him on the head with a hoof.

“Ow!” He yelped rubbing his head with a hoof. “Sorry! I won’t do it again.” Scootaloo smiled and the timidness of the colts response. It’s what she liked most about him.

“That’s right you do that!” She said but kept her smile until Aero snapped her wing back into place. “Uhh! Careful Aero, that hurt!”

“Sorry Scootaloo, but its all fixed although you will not be using that wing for a couple days at least. Scootaloo simply shrugged.

“Pfft.. Not like I use it for anything anyways.” She remarked. “Anyway, lets get moving.” Aero nodded and the two made their way off the beach.

Rainbow heard a thud coming from the bedroom. She ignored it at first, but another thud followed by speaking caught her attention. “Scootaloo?” Rainbow thought out loud.

She got up off of the sofa and walked up the stairs. She made her way to the door that led into the bedroom. By now Rainbow could clearly hear talking.

“Pfft.. Not like I use it for anything anyways. Anyway, lets get moving.” Rainbow was puzzled by this, who was Scootaloo talking to?

Rainbow inched the door open slightly so she could see in, it was dark in the room as she had shut the light off. A quick flick of a switch revealed Scootaloo walking about the room.

“Scootaloo?” Rainbow said, not sure what was going on.

As Scootaloo and Aero started to walk off of the beach, the grass they were walking to seemed to gradually appear farther and farther away. Their hooves started to sink into the sand and the sky turned a dark grey color, almost black in shade. The wind started to pick up and rain started to fall. They stopped walking.

“Aero, what’s going on?” Scootaloo looked over to see Aero gradually growing distant from her. He started to sink into the sand, he tried to call for her, but she couldn’t hear him. She started to gallop to him only to seem to get even more distant. The wind picked up and it threw Scootaloo to the ground causing her to wince in pain as she landed on her sprained wing. “Aero!” Scootaloo called out to no avail. Aero was now just inches from being completely buried in sand. Then the unthinkable happened and a bolt of lightning struck where Aero was, nothing was there now but black charred sand. Scootaloo was finally able to make it to where he was, now just a charred hole in the ground.

“Aero.” She whispered, letting tears fall. Then there was another flash and the sand around her started to envelop her, she started to sink into the sand. She flailed about trying to break free, she was unable to. She sank slowly into the sand before finally being completely enveloped in sand. She was then falling, a never ending falling sensation. All she could see was black, pitch black darkness that seemed to stretch on forever. She continued to fall.

“Scootaloo? Are you ok?” Rainbow asked, Scootaloo was now in a corner of the room flailing about. She reached out to shake Scootaloo

All of the sudden everything went white as she slammed into some object. She could hear echoes of a world she once forgot. A voice. Calling to her.

“Scootaloo, come on, wake up!” Dash said, she shook Scootaloo causing her to flinch and open her eyes. Not seeing anything but a shadowy figure, Scootaloo threw her hoof at the figure in fear, smacking Rainbow Dash in the face giving her a bloody nose. Scootaloo was still in a daze, all she could see was the shadowy figure, a lot of bright white light, and her blood covered hoof. At this she blacked out.

Rainbow Dash freaked and she panicked, not even caring about the fact her snout was leaking blood. She quickly scooped up Scootaloo and shot off out her door to Twilights home, flying through the evening sky frantically trying to get to the lavender unicorn’s home. “Hold on Scootaloo! We are almost there!” She swooped around the library and landed at the front door and pounded on it screaming and yelling scared out of her mind.

“Twilight! Please answer! Oh Celestia! I need you’re help!” She continued to pound on the door. Meanwhile inside Twilight was in the middle of a rather stressful study session. The banging at the door scared her and she jumped throwing her hooves forward tossing her work all over the place.

“What in Celestia is going on? Is that Rainbow Dash I hear? What in Equestria could that crazy mare want at this hour?” She walked over to the door and flung it open. Her jaw dropped and her eyes widened at the site of a bloody panicked Rainbow Dash standing in front of her and a passed out Scootaloo lying on her back with one of her hoof’s covered in what seems to be Rainbow Dash’s blood.

“Twilight...” Dash said in a lowly tone clearly exhausted from a frantic flight.

“Rainbow Dash! What happened? Is Scootaloo ok!? Are you ok!?” Twilight asked, almost as if she was unable to comprehend what she was seeing.

“I..I don’t know Twilight, I..I’m afraid Scootaloo is hurt or sick or something, you have to help! Don’t worry about me, just, help me find out what’s wrong with Scootaloo, please.”

“O-ok Rainbow, why don’t we go inside, it is late.”

Rainbow followed Twilight into the library still carrying Scootaloo on her back.

“Put her on the sofa.” Rainbow did as Twilight instructed. Soon after Twilight’s horn started to glow in a purple aura and so did Scootaloo.

“She’s fine, she, she fainted.” Twilight said as the purple aura broke.

“How do you know that?”

“I studied medical magic, now, how exactly did you get that bloody snout, and why is Scootaloo’s hoof bloody, with your blood?”

Rainbow hesitated for a moment, Twilight must be thinking the worse, that the filly was defending herself in some way against her. “I don’t know, I came to the bedroom to find her walking around, I tried to get her attention and she ignored me, then she started flailing around in a corner, I shook her and she punched me, then she passed out...I am really worried about her.”

Twilight didn’t answer right away. Instead she levitated a cup of tea and started to sip it before returning it to where it once rested on the table.

“She was probably sleepwalking-”

“Sleepwalking?”

“Yes, fillies and colts can sometimes sleepwalk when stressful situations occur, did anything stressful happen today?”

“I preened her feathers, they were.....badly irritated.”

“That would do it, now come on, she’s fine here, lets go tend to your nose.”

Rainbow nodded and followed Twilight into the kitchen.

Scootaloo was again in a black void, this time she could hear echoes, voices she could not make out, she could hear thunder. Then she started to see hazy images of Aero, and Rainbow, and her friends Sweetie and Applebloom, they were all injured in some way, either laying bloody on the ground or limbs broken. It was truly terrifying. Scootaloo tried to close her eyes, but she could still see the images. Then she heard voices, the voices of the ponies she could see.

“Why didn’t you help us Scootaloo?”

“Where were you Scootaloo?”

All of the voices seemed to speak at once, the ponies all lay dead before her. She tried to step back, but her body was locked in fear. Then she fell, she was falling down in the deep black void. Then, without warning she hit water and she splashed into it.

By this point the sofa in Twilight’s library, had seen better, dryer days....

Scootaloo jolted up, now sitting on the sofa, she felt something off about it. She put her hoof on the sofa cushion and immediately started to cry at what she had done. She had wet the bed, something no filly or colt ever wants to have happen to them.

Rainbow and Twilight had been in the other room, they heard the crying and rushed into the main library.

“Scootaloo what’s wrong!?” Rainbow asked in a panic. Her snout was bandaged.

Scootaloo buried her head into a pillow turning away from Rainbow and Twilight. She continued to cry.

Rainbow got closer to the sofa and realised what had happened.

“Oh Scootaloo...” Rainbow trailed off. She walked closer to the sofa and sat on the somewhat dry part next to Scootaloo. Scootaloo continued to cry.

Rainbow put her hoof around Scootaloo and pulled her closer. Scootaloo pulled her head out of the pillow and rested it on Rainbow’s chest as she started to wail even more than she was.

“Shhh, it’s ok, it’s ok, everything is going to be fine.” Rainbow hugged Scootaloo tighter.

Twilight just stood there and watched as Rainbow comforted Scootaloo.

“Shhh, its ok, can you tell me what happened?”

Scootaloo’s crying subsided to a point where she could at least speak.

“I-I h-had a N-night m-m-mare.....an-and, I h-had an ac-accid-dent....” She trailed off.

“Oh Scootaloo, its ok sweetie, everything is going to be alright.”

“N-no its n-not o-ok, I r-ruined-d T-Twilight’s s-s-sofa and-” Rainbow cut her off. She hugged Scootaloo tighter.

“She’s not mad about the sofa, its fine, we all have, uh, accidents, from time to time, nopony is mad at you, we all still love you very much, even though you had an accident.”

“R-really, you, you love me?”

“That’s not what I-” They were interrupted by spike coming down the steps, apparently at Twilight’s request. He seemed to be grumpy and he had a bucket and a sponge.

“I still don’t see why I have to clean this, I’m not the one who went and wet-”

“Spike!” Twilight scolded him by throwing a book at him with her magic.

“Well Rainbow, I am going to have to show you how to wake Scootaloo up if she ever sleep walks again, to avoid another, messy encounter....” Twilight said and walked over to a bookcase. Her horn lit up and she levitated a book down to Rainbow, “Here you got Rainbow Dash everything you need to know about sleepwalking and how to wake a pony properly during the event. Dash took the book and handed it to Scootaloo.

“Looks like we got some reading to do tonight Scoot.” Scootaloo lifter her head off Rainbows chest and smiled.

“Looks like I’m learning something new every day Rainbow Dash.” Scootaloo said resting her head back on Rainbows chest.

“Well come on, thanks for everything Twilight, I really appreciate you helping me out.” She put a hoof to the back of her neck. “Heh... Sorry for bursting in all crazy like looking like some kind of madpony or something.” Twilight waved a hoof to Rainbow.

“Don’t worry about it Rainbow Dash I am always glad to help a friend out.” She let out a yawn. “Its getting late I’ll see you tomorrow okay?” Dash nodded. Twilight made her way up to her loft. “Good night Spike Scootaloo said. “Sorry about the accident.” She blushed and turned away embarrassed. Spike held up a claw.

“Don’t worry about it Scootaloo. I understand what happened. I feel better knowing you’re feeling better now though. Take care and goodnight!” He waved goodbye and returned to what he was doing. The two pegasus’s making their final goodbyes turned and left. After a brief flight through the evening sky Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo landed at her cloud home Scootaloo by now had fallen asleep, exhausted from the day’s experiences. Rainbow walked her up to their room and slipped the filly into her bed and pulled the covers over her. she patted her on the her head then went over to her bed and opened the book Twilight had given her she laid in bed and read about how to properly wake a sleepwalker. After a few hours she closed it and looked over one more time to Scootaloo snoring quietly. She smiled.

“Goodnight Scootaloo, sleep well you have earned it.” Dash then rolled over and drifted off to sleep herself.

****

Rainbow woke a few hours later to the familiar sound of a filly talking. She sat up in bed and saw Scootaloo walking to the door muttering something.

“I’m coming Dash.” Scootaloo said and walked up to the door. Dash hopped out of bed and opened the door for her and followed her downstairs making sure this time to not wake her up just help her back to bed. She walked up next to the filly and draped a wing over her.

“Come on Scootaloo lets get you back to bed.” She said softly and gently turned the filly back towards the stairs.

“MMmmm... Thank you Rainbow Dash.” The filly mumbled walking with her. Scootaloo nuzzled the side of Rainbow Dash’s neck. She blushed, but continued to keep her mind focused helping Scootaloo back to bed. They made it back to her bedroom and Dash helped Scootaloo into bed and watched as she got herself comfortable and snuggled under the covers. Rainbow smiled and was about to stir the filly getting her to wake, but just then Scootaloo reached up and wrapped her forelegs around Dash’s neck and held her in a tight embrace “Goodnight Rainbow Dash,” She mumbled. “I love you.” She let go and laid back down. Dash just stood there utterly shocked.

‘Did she just say I love you?’ She kinda fidgeted in place. She didn’t know what to do. What the filly had just said brought forth a feeling she had forgotten for a long time. ‘I love you..’ she thought again and again the words hitting her harder then anything in her life so far has done before. The feelings she had repressed for a long time trying to break through the wall she had built up. “I...I” But she couldn’t say it herself. Her self consciousness fighting back against her heart, and for now it had came out on top. So, she shrugged it off pushing the thoughts to the back of her mind and leaned on the bed and gently shook the filly. After a few moments Scootaloo stirred and rolled over to face Dash and looked at her with tired eyes.

“Waa..? Huh..Where am I?” She asked slightly confused. Dash got on the bed and laid down along side Scootaloo.

“You were sleepwalking again Scoot, and I helped ya back into bed, and woke you up. Don’t worry you’re safe its just you and me here.” Scootaloo let out a sigh of relief.

“Did I say anything?” She wondered. Dash looked and her and smiled.

“No... Just a nice quiet walk around the house.” She ruffled her mane. Scootaloo smiled at Rainbow and looked into her eyes and knew she was hiding something, but at the moment she really didn’t care. Rainbow was there caring for her and thats all that mattered. She sat up and let out a sigh. She felt it was time to talk.

“Rainbow Dash.”

“Yes Scootaloo?”

“Remember when I told you I was not ready to talk about my past and where I have been?”

“Yes I do Scootaloo, what about it?” Scootaloo smiled and nuzzled Rainbow’s neck.

“Well I think its time I told you who I am and where I have been staying for the past ten years of my life. Rainbow smiled and got herself comfortable letting Scootaloo rest on her side and then resting a wing over her.

“I’m ready to listen Scootaloo.” The filly moved a bit to get comfortable.

“Well it all started at the orphanage...”

The Calm Before The Storm

Chapter Five
The Calm Before The Storm

Written by
Enlistedpony & Secret_Shadows
Edited by avorin

“You’re the best!” Scootaloo said, the day was starting off on a good note for a change. Scootaloo was overjoyed. Finally the long wait was over. She had found a home, and the best part; it was with her idol Rainbow Dash! Eventually the two broke their embrace with Rainbow keeping the filly at forelegs length holding her with her hooves.

“Thanks Scootaloo, that means a lot to me hearing it from you.” She said with happiness in her voice. The two remained looking at one another for a long moment until Rainbow’s gaze was interrupted by the sounds of somepony clearing their throat.

“Ahem... As much as Ah would like ta see this moment continue, Ah needs ta be gettin’ back ta mah stand.” The farm pony said breaking the mood between the two pegasi. Rainbow nodded and turned to look back at the young pegasus.

“Well Scootaloo what say we go get some breakfast?” Scootaloo put her hoof to her chin thinking about the idea, but just then her tummy answered it for her. She blushed and looked away embarrassed, but kept her eyes on Rainbow; a small sly smile on her face.

“Heh.. Guess my stomach is answering for me again.” She said, her blush slowly fading. Rainbow Dash chuckled a bit and nodded she stood up and beckoned the filly to follow. “But we need to go back to Applejack’s house first though Rainbow Dash.” Rainbow turned to look at the filly a bit confused.

“What for?”

“I need to pick up my scooter and bag I left there yesterday after we left in a hurry to tend to my well...” She stopped herself for a moment her blush returning. “Wing problem.” Dash looked at the filly and smiled nodding. She saw the filly was still somewhat embarrassed she had not known how to do something as simple as preening her wings.

“Ok Lets head on out.” Dash Waved goodbye to Twilight and Spike, then made her way to the door.

“Take care of yourselves.” Twilight said returning to her books. Dash put her hoof out to allow Scootaloo head out first, but just then Applejack popped back in the doorway.

“Why don’tcha ya’ll two stop by mah stand after ya’lls go pick up Scootaloo’s stuff at mah house. Ah’ll have some yummy apple fritters waiting for ya.” The two pegasi looked at one another, the thought of getting some more of Applejacks fritters was more than enough for the two to agree and nod.

“Sounds like a plan AJ!” Rainbow Dash said happily. “Get on squirt! times a wasting and we got a date with some apple fritters.” Rainbow laid down to allow Scootaloo to climb on and the she hopped on Dash’s back. Rainbow stood up snapped out her wings then took off towards Sweet Apple Acres.

****

Along the way Rainbow decided to strike up a conversation with the filly to pass the time.

“So Scootaloo, what would you like to do after we get something to eat?” Scootaloo though for a moment.

“Well.. We do need to go see Cheerilee today. Parent teacher conference.” Rainbow cringed when she heard that.

“If we have to..” She said with a bit disinterest in her voice. “What do you think she wants to talk with me about anyways?” Scootaloo put a hoof to her chin looking up at the early morning sky.

“Gee I dunno. Guess we’ll find out.” Dash nodded then returned her attention to the sky ahead of her. She took the most direct route from Twilight's library to the home of the country mare. After a few moments of silence, Dash landed at the gate leading down to Applejack's home.

“Where did you leave it?” Rainbow asked Scootaloo. The filly looked around for a moment trying to remember which tree she had stopped at to talk with Dash about the parent teacher conference.

“Over there.” Scootaloo said pointing to a tree, her scooter and bag lay underneath it. Rainbow scanned over in the direction noticing the fillies belongings she trotter over and let Scootaloo off to get her things.

“Here let me help you with that Scootaloo.” Rainbow went over and picked up the fillies bag and set it gently on her back then tightened the buckle slightly to avoid squeezing it too tight on her. “That's not too tight for you is it?” She asked. Scootaloo shook her head.

“No its fine.” Scootaloo said sitting down twisting the bags strap to get it comfortable. Scootaloo then reached over and stood on her scooter, but a moment later looked down slightly upset. Rainbow caught notice of the filly acting a little pouty.

“What’s wrong Scootaloo?” The filly looked over to Dash then back at her bandaged wing.

“I can’t really push myself on my scooter with my wing bandaged.” She said letting out a displeased sigh. “I guess I am gonna have to walk or let you carry me back to town.” She looked down upset again her ears falling back. Dash smiled and trotted up to her and placed a hoof on her shoulder.

“I got an idea Scoot, how about you steer and I’ll push. How does that sound?” Scootaloo’s ears perked up when she heard the offer. She looked up to Rainbow with a smile on her face.

“Really? Oh that would be awesome!” She said excited. Rainbow smiled and walked up behind Scootaloo and helped the filly get balanced on her scooter, she then came to a low hover right behind Scootaloo and put her hooves on the fillies shoulders careful to avoid touching her injured wing, but just as she was about to push she stopped to think ‘Was this really a good idea?’ She then shook her head.

“This isn’t going to work Scootaloo, if I pushed too hard I could hurt you.” She then landed and sat down thinking for a moment. Then an idea popped into her mind. “Hang on a second Scootaloo, I’ll be right back.” She took off in the direction of Applejack’s barn returning shortly with a length of rope. “One second Scootaloo.” Dash took the rope and tied one end to the scooters handlebar then she took the other end and made a loop and slid it around her waist. “All set! Get ready Squirt!” Scootaloo nodded and took up a ready position on her scooter, leaning back to allow her weight to keep her balanced. Dash raised to a hover and slowly started moving forward until the rope was taught, she then increased her pace going faster and faster gaining speed until both pegasi were speeding down the road back into Ponyville.

“Yeah! Awesome!” Shouted the excited filly as the two sped down the road, the town coming rapidly into sight and eventually Applejacks stand came into view.

“STOP THIEF!” Applejack shouted chasing the blue coated thief down the road past the two pegasi. “Don’t make me get mah rope!” Applejack shouted again, but Dash had already slipped off the rope around her waist and shot after the thief.

“You’re not getting away from me you little apple thief!” Dash shouted, she quickly closed the distance between her and the thief and tackled him down pinning him to the ground. The thief a young pegasus colt, spit the apple out and threw his hooves over his head cowering in fear.

“P-p-please d-don’t hurt m-me, I-I was j-just hungry!” He said holding his hooves over his face.

“A likely Story!” Rainbow said aggressively.

“P-please I, I haven’t eaten f-for d-days!” He said, still cowering in fear from the cyan pegasus.

Scootaloo’s ears perked up as she listened to the conversation, she couldn’t see the thief who was pinned under Rainbow, but she could hear him.

“A-Aero?” She said quietly to herself. She walked over and could see a tell tale blue and white tail, confirming her suspicions.

“A-Aero? I-is that you?” She asked getting closer. The young colt not believing what he was hearing slowly removed his hooves from his head and looked up to see where it came from.

“S-Scootaloo? T-that's impossible.” He said, as if he had just seen a ghost.

“Wait, you two know each other?” Dash asked, she was a bit confused.

“Who is this colt Scootaloo?” Applejack asked walking up to join the conversation.

“Its, it can’t be, but, its, Rainbow, this is, this is Aero.” Scootaloo paused for a moment, she then jumped at Dash. “Get off him!” She yelled pushing Rainbow off of Aero, releasing him from being pinned to the ground. Dash stumbled back a bit shocked at the sudden outburst from the filly.

“Whoa Scootaloo! Calm down!” Dash said holding her hooves out in front of her. Scootaloo lowered her guard a bit as she realized Dash wasn’t trying to hurt Aero.

“I, I’m sorry I-” Rainbow tried to walk forward and she extended a hoof out to Aero, he simply stumbled backwards and hid behind Scootaloo covering his head.

Scootaloo turned to Aero and put a hoof on his shoulder.

“It’s ok Aero, she won’t hurt you.” Scootaloo said. As reassuring as it was he maintained his hiding place behind Scootaloo. Dash tried to get closer but he started to shake.

“Rainbow, leave him alone, he’s been through enough.” Applejack said, she walked over to Scootaloo and Aero. She extended a hoof. Her hoof had an apple balanced on the end of it.

Aero looked up at the hoof. He removed his forelegs from over his head and stood up shakily.

Scootaloo gave him a reassuring look.

He gave a weak smile and took the apple biting into it, devouring it rather quickly. He then looked up to the country mare and nodded smiling timidly.

“Th-thank you.” He said, he turned to Scootaloo. “Thanks for getting that crazy blue mare off of me.” He said. Scootaloo giggled. Dash crossed her fore hooves and let out an aggravated sigh.

It finally snapped in Scootaloo’s mind that it was Aero, her best friend in the entire world, the most important colt to her ever.

“Oh My Gosh! Aero, Its You! Its You! Its You! Its You!” She shouted. She pounced on him hugging him very tightly.

Aero’s wings flared a bit at the sudden show of emotion.

“Yes, its me, can I breath now!?”

“Alright! Uh, you can stop now.” Dash said as she came between them pushing them apart.

Scootaloo walked around Dash and looked at Aero.

“Where were you all this time! I, I thought you were...” She stopped mid sentence and looked down at the ground.

“Scootaloo, maybe y'all should let Aero settle down before we go askin’ questions.” Applejack said. She observed that Aero looked very tired, hungry, and dirty.

“Scootaloo.. Can I just get something to eat and maybe a place to sleep? I am very tired, I have been walking for days now.” Scootaloo held a hoof over her snout while waving a hoof in front of her.

“And maybe a bath too.” She said. He blushed and lifted his wing smelling under it, reeling back from the stench.

“Yeah, th-that too.” He said embarrassed.

“You can come to my house and clean yourself up there Aero.” Dash offered. Aero looked over to Scootaloo for a little reassurance. She smiled and nodded, a gesture he welcomed.

“O-okay..” He said timidly. Rainbow walked over to the young colt to give him a look over.

“Are you able to fly Aero? Otherwise we need to find another way to get you up there.”

“I think I should be able to.” He said afterwards opening his wings and taking a few test flaps. Once he felt he was ready he nodded to Dash raising a hoof to signal her to lead the way.

“Okay good. Now if you do get tired or have a problem don’t for one second hesitate to tell me got it?” He nodded. “Good. Scootaloo, get on your friend is ready to go.” Scootaloo nodded and folded her scooter up then hopped onto Rainbows back.

“Okay Dash I’m ready.” She turned to look at the young colt “Take your time Aero, I’ll make sure Rainbow takes it slow so you don’t get too tired out.”

“Thanks Scootaloo,” He said giving her a smile of reassurance. “But I think I can handle it.” He stopped for a second thinking to himself. “By the way, why are you not flying yourself? I would of thought by now you would of been at least taking to the skies yourself.”

“I can! but, uh, well..” She paused, quickly thinking. “My wing! Yes my wing! its wounded! and that's why I can’t fly right now, yes, that's the truth and I’m sticking to it!” Scootaloo said, she blushed a bit and looked away. In truth, she couldn’t fly, she glided once and managed to hover. But her ability to actually fly however, was something...less than impressive.

Aero tilted his head looking at her somewhat confused, but he just decided to believe what she had said, he was too tired to bother arguing at the moment anyway. “Well okay I guess.. Anyway, can we go now please? I’m pretty tired and I would just like to get cleaned up and maybe get something to eat.” Rainbow nodded opened her wings and hopped into the sky.

“Come on Aero keep up.” She said heading off to her home. Aero took in a breath and let it out and began flapping his wings, a moment later slowly lifting off following the two into the afternoon sky.

****

As they were flying back to Rainbow Dash’s home Scootaloo made a point to keep her attention on the young colt slowly trailing behind.

“Slow up a bit Rainbow Dash, Aero is falling behind again.” Dash let out an exasperated sigh and slowed her pace allowing the colt to catch up.

“Come on slow poke we don’t got all day ya know.” Rainbow said holding a hover waiting for the colt. Aero slowly caught up and came to a hover next to the two panting heavily. “Are you alright Aero?” Rainbow asked with a little bit of concern.

“Y-yea I-I’m fine I just...” He trailed off as he landed on the cloud. Rainbow landed and let Scootaloo off her back.

“Are you sure Aero? You don’t look so good...” Scootaloo said noting the paleness of his face.

“Yeah I just-” He started to sway from side to side losing his balance. Scootaloo quickly galloped up to him just as he fell over. He leaned up against her. She winced slightly as he leaned against her bandaged wing.

“Th-Thanks Scootaloo.” He said, gave a faint smile.

“Let's get you inside.” Rainbow said as she stood on the other side of him. He nodded and the three hobbled inside. Once they got inside Dash helped Aero up the stairs and to the bathroom. “Here you go.” She said pushing the door open for him. “Take your time, we’ll be downstairs when you’re done.” He smiled and made his way into the bathroom closing the door behind him. A moment later Rainbow could hear water running, confident he was able to handle it himself, she headed downstairs and joined Scootaloo in the kitchen.

“You think hes gonna be ok Rainbow? He looked pretty exhausted.” Rainbow shook her head and shrugged then pulled up a seat next to the filly.

“I don’t know, but if we don’t hear from him in a few minutes, I’ll go check and make sure hes alright.” Scootaloo smiled and nodded.

“So.. What’s for lunch?” She asked. Rainbow put a hoof to her chin and thought it over for a moment.

“Well how about we keep it simple.” Dash went up to and hovered over to the cupboard and pulled out some apples and a few fritters she had picked up from the market. She returned and set the food down on the table. “Wala. Lunch is served.” Scootaloo giggled a bit at Rainbows response and reached for an apple, but just as she was about to take a bite Aero walked into the kitchen looking surprisingly a lot better than a few minutes ago.

“Feeling better?” Scootaloo asked. Aero smiled and nodded pulling up a chair and sitting at the table.

“Yea much better now. Still rather tired though.” He said with a bit of exhaustion in his voice. “Can I have an apple please?” He asked.

“You don’t have to ask Aero, you’re a guest in my house.” Dash replied rolling him an apple. Aero smiled and took the apple quickly finishing it off. “Slow down Aero, you’ll get sick if you eat too fast.” Aero nodded and slowly chewed on the next apple. “That's better.” After a while the three had finished eating and Rainbow had gone to clean up then headed out to the living room, Scootaloo and Aero sat quietly at the table twiddling their hooves.

“So Aero,” Scootaloo said finally breaking the silence. “Where have you been all this time?”

“Well..” He stopped for a moment “When I went under the water I thought I was done for, but just then this nice serpent saved me and pulled me out of the water. I pleaded with him to go back to look for you, but he said the current was too strong and I was nearly at the point of hypothermia, and I needed to be warmed up or else I could've died.” He looked down his ears falling back, and Scootaloo could've sworn he was on the verge of crying. “I...” He let out a breath. “I returned to the place we tried to cross a few days later to see if I could find you, or...” He trailed off. “What the timberwolves may have left behind.” He said softly.

Scootaloo listened to the story, devoting all of her attention to Aero. She had missed him so much, so every little moment counted.

“When I didn’t find anything... I assumed.” He paused briefly. He let out a breath and swallowed. “I assumed you were, gone. So I headed back to Fillydelphia hoping to return to the orphanage, but when I got there it was closed up, abandoned. A few squatters milling around had told me the orphanage was not fulfilling the requirement set forth by the city, so they closed it up and transferred Star Dancer and Vincent to an orphanage out west.”

“Did he mean Ponyville?” Scootaloo asked. Aero shook his head.

“He didn’t say, but I was thinking that too. However I didn’t know where Ponyville was, so I hung around Fillydelphia for about a year living off food I had stolen,” He said regretfully. “And I managed to stay out of the rain at the local library.” He let out a long yawn and Scootaloo could clearly see he was on the verge of falling asleep, but she wanted to know a little more. Just as she was about to speak up, Rainbow popped back into the kitchen pulling the fillies attention off the sleepy colt for a few minutes.

“Scootaloo what are you two still doing in there?” Scootaloo turned to face Dash.

“Just talking Rainbow, I’m trying to find out where Aero has been all this time.”

“Well come on out here I need to talk with you about the parent teacher conference.”

“Ok Rainbow.” Scootaloo replied then turned back to Aero. “So Aero, when did you...” She trailed off when she saw the colt now passed out on the table his head laying down on it sideways and his forelegs stretch out on the table. She smiled walking over to him putting a hoof to his shoulder. “That's ok you scaredy pony you can tell me later.” She tried to hoist the sleeping colt on her back to carry him to the bedroom, but he was too heavy. Her legs gave out and she flopped on the floor with Aero laying on top.

Scootaloo tried to wiggle her way out from under Aero, to no avail. “Wake up Aero!” She said as she hit him with her forehoof. When he didn’t wake up she tried to roll over to get him off of her. When hoofsteps are heard.

Rainbow walked into the room to find Aero on top of Scootaloo and Scootaloo wiggling around. Rainbow’s face turned from happy, to an upset and concerned look.

“This Isn’t What It Looks Like!” Scootaloo shouted.

“I dunno Scoots, it looks like...uh, just get out from under Aero.” Rainbow said with an authoritative voice.

“I wish I could but he fell asleep! Then I tried to help him to the bedroom but he fell onto me and now I’m stuck!” Dash let her mood drop to and she walked over and gently lifted the sleeping colt off Scootaloo. She squirmed out from under him and stood up, a slight blush on her face. “Heh.. Heh. Thanks.” She said giving her good wing a flap. Rainbow rolled her eyes and took to a hover carrying the sleeping colt to her room.

“Come on Scootaloo, come open the door for me and I’ll set your colt friend down on the bed so he can get some sleep.” Scootaloo’s glared at Rainbow Dash and stomped a hoof.

“He’s not my colt friend!” Scootaloo said rather aggravated, but a visible blush was clearly visible on her face. Dash just laughed.

“Oh sure sure, I believe you.” She said with a chuckle. Scootaloo huffed and rolled her eyes.

“Whatever..” Scootaloo waved Rainbow off and opened the door for her. Dash then floated over and gently set Aero on the bed then turned to leave.

“Come on Scoot, he needs some rest he looked pretty tired out.” Scootaloo nodded and followed Dash out of the room and closing the door behind her, but taking one last glance at the colt as he lay peacefully asleep on the bed. Once she got downstairs she found Dash standing by the door.

“Where are you going Rainbow?”

“I am gonna go have a talk with Fluttershy, you stay here and watch over your,” She snickered. “Colt friend incase he wakes up.” Scootaloo gave her a displeased look and waved her off.

“Not gonna cut me any slack are you?” Dash smiled and shook her head.

“Nope! See you two in a little while.” She snapped open her wings and took in the direction of the Everfree.

Scootaloo watched out the window until Rainbow Dash was out of view. She trotted her way up to the bedroom and peeked in the door. Aero was sleeping soundly on Scootaloo’s bed.

‘Oh Aero, I missed you so much.’ She thought to herself.

She walked over to the bed and sat down on the edge of it.

‘I’ll just sit here and keep you company.’ She thought. A few moments passed as she watched him sleep. She yawned, it had been a very long morning.

‘I think I’ll just lay my head down on the pillow...’ She laid her head down on the pillow and pulled part of the cover up over herself.

‘Just for a few moments...’ She thought, intending to only lay there for a few moments. Several yawns and closing her eyes later she fell asleep. In his sleep Aero rolled over and wrapped his forelegs around Scootaloo. And they slept soundly, all the while Rainbow was flying to Fluttershy’s to discuss some pressing matters.

****

Dash landed on her doorstep followed by Fluttershy a few hours later. She opened the door to find the main room empty. She expected to find Scootaloo sitting on the sofa, maybe building a puzzle or some other game.

“Scootaloo? Aero? I’m back!” She said out loud, with no response.

Fluttershy entered the house and closed the door behind them.

“Maybe they are sleeping?” Fluttershy said.

“Well, Aero went to sleep but I don’t think Scootaloo was tired.” Rainbow said. The two pegasi walked up the stairs and found the bedroom door opened slightly.

Rainbow slowly opened the door to find Aero and Scootaloo asleep, Aero with his forelegs wrapped around Scootaloo. Her mind came awash with thoughts of anger that Scootaloo would do something like this.

“Aww, they look so adorable!” Fluttershy squeaked.

Rainbow let out a moan and stomped her way into the bedroom.

“Wake Up.” Rainbow said in a very loud tone.

Scootaloo stirred before opening her eyes. Her eyes widened when she realized exactly what had happened.

“I’m in trouble aren’t I?” She asked as she pried herself free from Aero’s hold.

“Yes, yes you are.” Dash responded. Scootaloo stood up as she got out of bed. She let out a heavy sigh.

“I didn’t mean to fall asleep honest!” Scootaloo said.

“What exactly were you to doing that you fell asleep with him?” Rainbow asked.

“I...I came to check on Aero.” She was starting to get nervous, she knew she didn’t do anything wrong, but Dash’s tone made her think otherwise. “I laid down on the bed just for a moment to rest my eyes, it was a really long morning and, I kinda drifted off to sleep.”

“Why did Aero have his fore legs wrapped around you!” Rainbow demanded.

“Well, I uh...” Scootaloo started to stutter, she really didn’t have an answer for this one. “He did it while I was asleep, I don’t know!” she yelled in what sounded like panic.

Aero stirred at a loud booming right next his head and slowly opened his eyes to find Scootaloo shaking, Dash standing in an angry manner, and a yellow pegasus in the background who was quietly observing.

“What’s going on everypony? Is something wrong?” He said as he rubbed his eyes.

“Yes, you two are in so much trouble.” Rainbow said as she lifted a hoof to her head to prevent a headache from anger.

“Dash! We didn’t do anything! I promise!” Scootaloo squeaked.

“Did I do something wrong?” Aero asked, completely confused.

“Aero, I’m sorry, but, I don’t think you should stay here.” Rainbow said.

“No!” Scootaloo shouted. “He didn’t do anything! Rainbow! Trust me! If you won’t trust me then...” Scootaloo searched for words, her eyes slightly teared up at her next outburst “I don’t want to be here anymore!” She said rashly.

Rainbow was taken back by this, her and Scootaloo had gotten along so well, and all of this just over a colt.

“Fine Then! Lea-” Rainbow was cut off by a hoof on her shoulder.

“Rainbow, I think, I think they’re telling the truth.” Fluttershy said.

All three turned to face Fluttershy.

“You know, if you want to think that...” She trailed off.

“Can somepony please tell me what’s going on?” Aero asked, half expecting a hoof to collide with his head.

There was silence for a few moments as Rainbow and Scootaloo stared at each other. As if having a conversation using just their eyes.

“Nothing, I, nothing happened, go back to sleep.” Rainbow said as she turned and walked out of the room. She wasn’t one to accept defeat in this sort of situation, but for Scootaloo, she would. Fluttershy looked at the filly and colt, then followed Dash out of the room.

Rainbow paced back and forth in the kitchen. Fluttershy sat at the table.

“It’s completely unacceptable behavior for them!” Rainbow complained.

“Dash, I think it was an honest mistake, they didn’t look like they had done anything wrong, and-”

“Mistake? I saw the way he wrapped himself around her, that’s no mistake! That doesn’t just happen!” Rainbow continued to pace back and forth, she put her hoof to her head again trying to cope with the headache brought on by her anger.

“Rainbow, just as Scootaloo trusts you, she expects you to trust her, if she says nothing happened, you should trust in that she is telling the truth.” Fluttershy said, in truth she probably would have reacted similarly had it been her in the situation, a bit less rash of course.

“I just don’t know what to do! I don’t think I can care for two of them.” Dash said as she sat down, she rested her head in her hooves and closed her eyes.

“Nopony said you had to, Dash, just give it a few days until we can find Aero a nice home, maybe we-”

“But if we do that Scootaloo will hate me!”

“Well, not if it’s someplace close by, just give it a few days ok? And I think you should go talk with Scootaloo, let her know why you thought it was unacceptable, its good to talk Rainbow, you should also probably explain to Aero what happened, I think he was confused.”

There was a small voice behind the two of them. Standing in the doorway was Aero.

“Miss Dash?” He asked quietly.

“Rainbow.” She said softly.

“Rainbow, and miss?”

“Fluttershy.” responded Fluttershy.

“Rainbow and miss Fluttershy, I’m sorry if I caused you any trouble, I, I’ll leave if you really don’t want me here, I, I know what its like, to not be wanted, and, you’re not hurting my feelings, again I’m sorry if I caused you any trouble.” He was staring at the ground, his ears flat on his head. Faint sobs could be heard coming from the stairway that Scootaloo now occupied.

Fluttershy looked at Rainbow with a look in her eye that broke Rainbow.

“No, no, It’s...” She paused, cringing at even saying it. “My fault.”

Aero looked up, confused.

“I shouldn’t have left you two here alone, it’s fine, just, it’s fine really.” Dash said, she looked at Aero giving him a weak smile.

“So...I can stay?” He asked quietly.

Rainbow looked up at Fluttershy once more seeking guidance. Fluttershy nodded.

“Yes.” Rainbow said.

Aero smiled a bit. “Thank you Miss D- Rainbow.” He trotted back off to the stairs. The quiet sobbing that was once emanating from the stairs stopped and the sound of eight hooves trotting about the upstairs could be heard ever so softly in the kitchen.

“Think I did the right thing?” Rainbow asked.

Fluttershy smiled. “I know you did the right thing.” Rainbow tried to return the smile, but she couldn’t help feeling upset, like the calm before a storm.

****

“Soo Aero what do you want to do now?” Scootaloo asked, hopping up on the bed and sitting next to him.

“Well I’m pretty new in this town you mind showing me around? I wouldn’t mind getting to know the ponies around here.” Aero said, stretching out to get comfortable. Scootaloo put a hoof to her chin and though for a moment trying to figure out what would be a good way to show her friend around town. An idea then popped into her mind.

“Why don’t I take you to meet my friends Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom? They would love to meet a new friend.” Aero smiled he liked the idea of meeting new ponies especially if he could make more friends.

“Well alright!” He said hopping to his feet. “Sounds like fun when do we leave?”

“As soon as we find a way to get me to the ground.” Aero looked at Scootaloo confused.

“Why don’t you ask Rainbow Dash? Or maybe Fluttershy? I bet one of them would be happy to give you a lift.”

“I dunno..” Scootaloo said scuffing the ground with a hoof. “I yelled at Dash, she may be still mad at me.” Aero waved a hoof shaking his head.

“Only one way to find out.” He said making his way to the door, but he was stopped when Scootaloo jumped in front of him.

“Why don’t you carry me down?” Aero took a step back shocked.

“M-me!? A-are yo-you sure? I mean I don’t know..” He trailed off. “Shouldn’t we tell your guardian first?” Scootaloo shook her head.

“No, and don’t call her that. Her name is Rainbow Dash.”

“S-sorry!” Aero said turning away embarrassed. “But why not tell her? I mean won’t she get upset?” Scootaloo just shrugged.

“Probably, but I feel if I ask her to go walking around town with you again she will just yell at me.” Aero still wanted to protest, but Scootaloo finally relented. “Fine fine, I will write a note and leave it on the nightstand for her okay?” Aero nodded and walked to the window opening it up and the warm afternoon breeze started to blow in through the open window. Scootaloo rummaged through her bag and took a piece of paper out from her school supplies. She then scribbled a simple note to Dash on it and placed it on the nightstand.

“Ready to go Scootaloo?” she nodded and walked over to him.

“All set, just be careful okay? Don’t drop me like last time.” She said, but Aero didn’t think it was funny.

“Well I’ll be ok unless you gained some weight since last time. You do look like you’ve gotten a bit rounder at the edges.” He giggled. Scootaloo raised an eyebrow putting on a sly smile. She sauntered up to him batting her eyelashes at him.

“Why are you looking at my edges Aero? See anything you like?” He immediately fell back on his rump, his face wide eyed. He took a big gulp trying to swallow whatever it was, probably his heart back into his chest.

“No! I-I I didn’t mean it that way!” He put a hoof to his face.

“So you don’t think I’m pretty?” She asked, getting ever closer to him as she walked past swishing her tail so it tickled the end of his nose.

“Th-thats not wh-what I-” Aero stammered.

“So you do think I’m pretty?” She said, she was having fun with this.

“I, but you! I- never, but-” Aero was starting to sweat.

“Its a yes or no question Aero!” She put one of her forehooves under his chin as she said this.

“I, but, you see, some ponies-” He stopped when her hoof that was previously under his chin hit him upside his head.

“Next time don’t call a filly fat! It might not be a hit to the head next time!” She said as she walked in another direction away from him, swaying her tail once more tickling the end of his nose again. He was left standing there dumbfounded, rubbing his head, not knowing what just happened.

“Umm okay?” He said confused and stood up. “Alright Scootaloo, climb on, I’ve never actually carried anypony before, so hold on tight.” She nodded and wrapped her forelegs around his neck.

“Ok I’m ready.” He nodded and unfurled his wings then climbed on the windowsill and hopped out taking to the skies.

****

As the two were making their way through the afternoon sky Aero for the most part was handling the fillies weight fine. Soaring over the rooftops and tree levels of Ponyville he was actually enjoying the flight, even more because of a certain orange filly riding along with him. He decided to try some aerial tricks. He took off upwards flapping as hard as he could to gain altitude rising as high as the cloud layer. Once he hit the top of his arch, he leveled off and came to a hover.

“You doing okay back there?” He asked Scootaloo, a little bit out of breath. The filly smiled and nodded.

“I’m doing great!” She leaned forward to whisper into his ear. “Even more because I am with you.” She said. He smiled back and started to fly forward again a light blush growing over his face. Content she was enjoying it, he angled downwards and shot off down to the ground at a decent pace. Scootaloo was happy to just be here she let her good wing extend to feel the warm summer air flow through it. “Faster Aero!” She asked, he nodded and swooped up into a steep climb his heart pounding in his chest as he reached the top of the arch, but by now he was beginning to feel the toll of carrying a pony on his back. His wings were screaming in pain and he was having trouble holding a hover. Scootaloo instantly noticing his exhaustion spoke again into his ear.

“Aero, I think its time we landed, you don’t look too well.” He nodded taking in big gasps of air trying to get enough oxygen re-energize his aching muscles, but he couldn’t manage and instead of taking to a steep dive he let his wings flare out, and glided back down to the ground. However, when they were approaching the Crusader Treehouse, his wings gave out and they tumbled down through the top of the tree crashing down through the roof onto two unsuspecting fillies coloring in some coloring books.

“Come on Scootaloo! Ah Just fixed that hole last week!” Apple Bloom said as she saw Scootaloo tumble down in front of her.

Aero landed on top of Sweetie Belle.

“Hi, you’re new in town.” Sweetie said giving him an affectionate look.

“Don’t even *cough* think about it Sweetie.” Scootaloo said giving her the dreaded glare of daggers, almost searing into her soul that ‘this one is taken’

“Aww, did you claim this one? I thought we said whoever gets crushed by the colt gets to keep him!” Sweetie moaned.

“Yeah well, I changed the rules, this one’s mine!” Scootaloo yelled.

“Y-you like me? Really?” Aero asked surprised to Scootaloo as he got off of Sweetie.

Scootaloo blushed remembering her previous conversation with Aero.

“You didn’t hear that! I don’t like you like that!” Scootaloo said trying to cover up what she just said. Turning away a bit bashful.

“Ah think he heard ya just fine and dandy Scootaloo.” Apple Bloom said. Scootaloo glared at Apple Bloom as if to say ‘thanks a lot...’

‘She really likes me?’ Aero though a slight blush forming on his cheeks, but he needed to know if she was really interested in him. So a plan formed in his mind on one: how to get back at her, and two: prove what he was thinking was actually true. He gave Scootaloo a smug smile causing her to look at him with a bit of nervous confusion, then sauntered up to Sweetie Belle and gave her a nuzzle on her cheek.

Scootaloo’s face turned redder than Big Macintosh’s coat when she watched what he had done. She ran over to them and pushed them apart. Sweetie simply fell down and Aero looked at Scootaloo with a look of contentment that he had finally confirmed his suspicions.

“ANYWAY!” Scootaloo said trying to change the topic. “These are my friends and fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders.” Scootaloo said. “This one here is Apple Bloom,” She pointed to the yellow earth filly wearing a big red bow in her mane. “And this one here is Sweetie Belle.” She pointed to the white unicorn filly with a pink and purple swirly mane.

“Howdy Aero!” Apple Bloom said in a cheerful tone.

“Uh, Hi, uh, Aero” Sweetie said blushing as she looked away.

“Hello girls” Aero said waving to them smiling. “What are Cutie Mark Crusaders?”

“Well as ya can tell Aero, We are all blank flanks.”

Aero looked around the room, observing their flanks, not realising what he was doing.

“Hey! Thats not nice!” Sweetie chirped.

“What’s the big idea!” Apple Bloom said.

Scootaloo only blushed and looked down.

Aero was about to ask ‘what?’ when three hooves collided with his head.

Everything went blurry and dark for a few moments.

“Think he’s ok?”

“Ah reckon we hit em’ pretty hard.”

“Girls, I have an idea...Cutie Mark Crusaders Nurses!” Scootaloo cheered.

“Nurse Sweet Belle, how is the patient?” Scootaloo asked.

“Unconscious it seems from tri blunt trauma Nurse Scootaloo.” Scootaloo nodded and turned to Applebloom.

“Nurse Apple Bloom, what do you suggest we do with the patient?”

“Ah reckon he needs bed rest Nurse Scootaloo.” The three looked at each other and nodded.

“PATIENT AERO TO MEDICAL WARD STAT!” They all yelled tossing the unconscious colt on a cot.

“Restrain him Nurse Sweetie Belle, He may try to run away when he wakes.” Sweetie Belle smiled brightly at the offer.

“Yes Ma’am!” She responded a bit too happily causing Scootaloo to rethink what she had just said for a moment.

“Uhh... Scratch that, I’ll restrain him Nurse Sweetie Belle, you get the smelling salts.” Sweetie Belle let out a huff and walked over to the first aid kit.

“Aww fine... I’ll go get it.” She responded displeased and went over to the box hanging on the wall.

“Nurse Apple Bloom, Get some food the patient may be hungry when he wakes up.” Apple Bloom nodded and raced out the door into the orchard, but Scootaloo stopped her at the base of the ramp.

“Get me some rope Apple Bloom!” The yellow filly nodded and ran off to the barn. She returned a few moments later with a length of rope and a basket of apples. Scootaloo took the rope and went over to start tying up the young colt. She tossed the rope over to the other side of the bed where Sweetie Belle picked it up and was about to start tying him up, but Scootaloo smacked the rope out of her hoof.

“Don’t touch him! I’ll do it thanks.” Sweetie Belle huffed and stood back.

“Fine be that way! I think somepony is jealous here!” Scootaloo dropped what she was doing when she heard the sarcastic remark and snapped her head around to glare at Sweetie Belle.

“What is that supposed to mean?” Scootaloo asked. Sweetie Belle sat up on her haunches and put her hooves to her side glaring right back at Scootaloo.

“How are we supposed to be nurses and take care of the patient if you keep getting all over protective when somepony touches your colt friend!” Scootaloo’s face turned bright red.

“He’s not my colt friend!” Sweetie Belle crossed her forelegs and gave the young pegasus a displeased look.

“You’re a terrible liar Scootaloo, and you're also are pretty bad at not showing it.” She said pointing to the orange filly blushing rather profusely. Scootaloo waved the young unicorn off and resumed tying the colt up speaking under her breath.

“Not my fault somepony is having trouble with a certain dragon.”

“What was that?” Scootaloo looked up from what she was doing shocked.

“I didn’t say nothing!” Scootaloo said returning to tying the unconscious colt up.

Scootaloo finished tying Aero up and she leaned closer to his ear.

“Now Aero, I’m sorry I had to tie you up but its so you don’t run away while we try to heal you, just don’t try to move and I won’t have to make them tighter!” Scootaloo whispered as she pulled as hard as she could on the knot to make the rope tight. “Okay Sweetie Belle did you read the instructions on how to use them smelling salts?”

“There was instructions? I didn’t see any in the box.” Scootaloo slammed a hoof to her face.

“Well it can be that hard right? Maybe its like that doctors saying right? Take two and call it a day?” Sweetie Belle nodded.

“Yeah that sounds about right.” She took two of the packets with her magic and cracked them then shook them a bit. “All ready?” The two nurses nodded. Getting this conformation Sweetie Belle held the packages over Aero’s nose and a second later his eyes shot open his head jerking back.

“I’m awake! I’m awake!” He said then tried to rub his aching head with a hoof, but after trying for a second he looked over to see it had been tied down. “Umm... Why am I tied down?” He looked around nervous. “Why are you girls looking at me like that?” Scootaloo came up to his ear and whispered into it.

“Umm.. Your wings are out Aero.” His eyes went wide and he looked to to his sides, and sure enough his wings had reached their full extension. He then returned to looking at the fillies with a pretty good blush on his face.

“He looks nervous!” Sweetie said.

Apple Bloom then opened a first aid kit she had brought back with her.

“Ah have just the thing!” She said as she lifted a large booster shot out of the kit.

Aero tried to free himself to no avail.

‘You’re not going anywhere Aero, you need your rest.” Scootaloo said tightening the ropes.

Aero sighed ‘I guess it could be worse, they could be trying to ki-’ His thoughts were interrupted when all three fillies grabbed the booster shot and aimed for his behind.

“One! Two! Three!” Scootaloo said as they charged.

‘This won’t end well!’ he thought, trying to speak, but just the thought of the shot impaling his rear left him speechless. And who would leave a booster shot with three little fillies anyway?

The shot impacted him and he let out a wail loud enough to be heard by Applejack who was applebucking on the other side of the farm.

“What in tarnation was that?”

Aero started to relax a bit, the shot was some form of relaxant.

“I think it worked!” Sweetie said.

“Hey Apple Bloom, what was that shot anyway?” Scootaloo asked.

Apple Bloom looked down at the box that the shot was in and she read the words out loud.

“Earth Pony Muscle Relaxant...” She read down the box a bit more. “Warning: Do not use on Pegasi or Unicorns, it may cause disorientation, inability to control magic and/or wings, and unconsciousness, other side effects include but are not limited to uncontrolled wing flapping, loss of flight sense, magical outbursts. Do not operate heavy tree’s while while under the effects of this medication, consult a physician before use. consult a physician if effects persist for more than eight hours. seek medical care for or if your wings are erect for more than four hours. This medication is not for use by any pony other than an earth pony/alicorn.”

All three fillies looked back at Aero, who was again passed out. Apple Bloom heard the sound of hoofs approaching went to look out the window. She instantly ducked behind the window and rushed back to the other two fillies watching Aero sleep with his tongue hanging out of his mouth.

“Girls! We’re in trouble!” Scootaloo broke from her trance and looked over to the yellow earth filly confused.

“Why?”

“Mah sister Applejack is coming!” Scootaloo put on a face that could only be described as “EEP!” Then shot over to the window to look for herself.

“What are you girls up ta up there?” Applejack said walking up to the ramp. Scootaloo put on a cheeky grin waving to Applejack trying to downplay her nervousness. It was failing. Horribly.

“What are you hiding?” Applejack asked raising an eyebrow. “Ah heard a loud yelp clear across the orchard, and now its all quiet and yer sittin here with that look on yer face? Somethin’s up, and Ah want ta know what it is, and where is mah sister?” Just then flapping could be heard and a moment later Rainbow Dash dropped out of the sky and landed next to Applejack.

‘Oh Celestia, not her too!’ Scootaloo thought reeling back into the treehouse.

“What’s got ya all pale like that Scootaloo?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Rainbow Dash just arrived.”

“Scootaloo? I saw your note. How did you get down here? And where is Aero?”

“Ummm... He’s up here with us.”

“Well get him I need you two to come with me.” Scootaloo nodded and went back into the treehouse. Rainbow nodded and turned to look at Applejack who had a concerned look on her face. “What’s the matter Applejack? It looks like something is bothering you.”

“It’s them darn fillies. Something is going on up there and Ah want to know what.”

“It’s probably nothing AJ, just their typical nonsense about trying to get their Cutie marks.” Applejack shook her head.

“Ah heard somepony yell from across the dang orchard then Ah get here and these three fillies are acting all innocent. Somethings not right Ah can feel it.” Rainbow looked up to the window wondering what the farm pony was talking about.

“Want me to fly up and take a peek?”

“Ya know what? That sounds like a might good idea there. Let me know what ya find.” Rainbow nodded and unfurled her wings and slowly floated up to the window.

“Quick girls! We need to wake up Aero before Rainbow Dash or Applejack come in.” Scootaloo raced over and started to try to untie the knots in the rope. Unfortunately though she had tied the knots too tight and it was very hard for her to get them out. She struggled for a few minutes finally releasing most of the binds leaving only one holding his forelegs together. Scootaloo feeling she had no time remaining hopped on top of Aero and began frantically trying to gnaw through the rope not noticing the young colts wings had flared up under her belly. Just as Scootaloo was about to get through the last strands of rope and free him a shout came from the window.

“WHAT THE HAY!?” Rainbow Dash yelled, shocked from what she had just witnessed. Scootaloo turned around and looked at Dash with wide eyes, rope falling out of her mouth.

“Uhhh... This is not what it looks like.” She said. Dash scanned over the scene then waved a hoof dismissing the situation.

“Not even gonna argue with you. Wake him up and get down here.” Scootaloo nodded hopped off the colt and started shaking him. Rainbow Dash landed a moment later to a curious Applejack.

“So... What did ya find?” Dash shook her head and pointed to the treehouse.

“I think you should see for yourself.” Applejack reared her head back raising an eyebrow.

“Uhh.. Alright Ah guess..” She slowly made her way up the ramp and peeked her head in to see three fillies shaking a passed out colt. “What in tarnation!? What have you three girls done to poor Aero?” Applebloom walked up to her sister and hoofed her a needle.

“We gave him a shot of this Sis.” Applejack took the needed and looked it over.

“Did ya take this from the box on the wall in the barn Apple Bloom?” The yellow filly nodded sheepishly. “This is for Earth ponies! Not pegasi! Especially a young colt like Aero!” She walked over to the colt and picked him up sitting him on his haunches. “Sorry for what Ah am about ta do kid, but its the only way to get ya up.” She slapped him across the face causing him to instantly wake up albeit a bit groggy. He rubbed his cheek with his face and looked around trying to pull the world into focus.

“Ahh! What happened? Last thing I remember was Warrants lacky kicking me, I don’t know where I am.” He looked around and saw Scootaloo. He raced over to her. “Scootaloo! Are you ok? Did that guard hurt you?” He asked, he looked her over and found no bruises accept for her bandaged wing and a bandage on her leg.

“Why that lying! Where is Warrant! Let me at him!”

“Aero? Are ya’ll ok?” Applejack asked.

“Get back!!” He said, he tried to flap his wings in an aggressive manner, but he couldn’t feel them.

“What did you do to my wings?” He said to Applejack.

“Wait, Warrant...” Scootaloo thought out loud. “Aero, we got away from that place, remember?” Scootaloo said. She tried to move closer but he backed away.

“Scootaloo wouldn’t lie to me like that! You’re not Scootaloo!” He shouted as he backed up into a corner.

“Apple Bloom! This is why Ah tell ya not ta touch the first aid kit!” Applejack Scolded.

“Now Aero, nopony here is gonna hurt ya, just relax, an’ everything is gonna be fine.” Applejack said in a calming tone.

Aero loosened up a bit, still backed into a corner, but he let his guard drop a bit.

Applejack started to inch closer to him.

“Thats right, ya remember me right? Ya’ll crashed into mah stand the other day.”

He looked up at her, she was now closer to him and the disorientation made it seem like she was towering over him. He blinked and rubbed his eyes.

“Thats right, calm down, Nopony is gonna hurt ya.” Applejack was about to get within hoofs range but he tensed back up. Scootaloo walked over and tried to help.

“Aero, calm down, nopony here will hurt you.” Scootaloo said, she reached out a hoof to Aero. He shakily accepted and allowed her to come closer.

Scootaloo sat down next to him and put her forehooves around him in a hug.

“Its ok Aero, you’re fine now see?” Scootaloo said. “You’re in good hoofs now.”

“Who’s Warrant?” Applejack asked. Scootaloo looked at her shaking her head.

“It’s a long story Applejack, could you three please just give me and Aero a few moments?” Applejack and the two fillies looked at Scootaloo holding the visibly shaken Aero wondering if they should leave or not, but just then Rainbow Dash stepped in.

“I know what she’s talking about and she's right. Give her a few minutes to get Aero calmed down.” Rainbow ushered the three confused ponies out the door and turned back to look at Scootaloo. “Take all the time you need Scootaloo, we’ll be waiting outside when you’re ready.” Scootaloo looked over to Dash and smiled.

“Thanks Rainbow Dash.” She said Dash smiled and turned to walk out, but heard a soft stammering whisper.

“Th-th-thank y-you.” Aero barely whispered returning to his hug still shaking. Rainbow walked down the ramp and went over to a clearly upset Applejack.

“Is he gonna be okay?” Applejack asked Rainbow.

“I don’t know, but it seems the overdose from that drug had caused him to have a pretty bad relapse. He may need medical attention.” Applejack shook her head and shot off to her home yelling.

“Hold on Ah’ll be right back!” She returned a few moments later with Big Mac and a first aid kit.

“Ok Applejack, what’s the big deal dragging me out to the treehouse?” Applejack set the first aid kit down and opened it.

“This is the deal, Aero, Scootaloo’s friend has had an overdose on earth pony relaxant. He needs the Anti Toxin fast before it gets worse and we need ta rush him to the hospital.”

“Why would we have ta rush him ta the hospital Applejack?”

“Why did he take the relaxant in the first place? Didn’t he realize that it could potentially cause permanent damage ta a pegasus, let alone a colt of his age?” Applejack just pointed to the two girls sitting off to the side with their hooves tapping together.

“Them three girls done shot him up with it thinkin it would get them their Cutie marks.” The red earth stallion looked at the two with a scowl shaking his head in disgust.

“Shame on you two! Ya’ll could of really hurt him ya know!” He turned to look back at Applejack rummaging through the first aid kit. “What do you need me ta do Applejack?”

“Ah’m gonna need ya to hold him down and make sure he doesn’t try to run away. Rainbow Dash you’re going to have to help too.” Dash nodded and walked toward the ramp.

“We’re wasting time here! lets get moving!” Applejack and Big Mac nodded and followed her up into the treehouse. When they made it inside they saw Scootaloo trying her best to calm down Aero, but he was experiencing a severe case of an overdose.

“Scootaloo,” Rainbow said walking up to her. “We need to give Aero the Anti Toxin to purge the drug from his body.” Scootaloo nodded and allowed Big Mac to pick up the panicked colt and gently set him on the cot.

Aero was in a daze, light seemed to be coming from every angle into his eyes unless he closed them. He had no awareness of his extremities, he had lost all feeling and his body had gone limp. His head felt like the entirety of Canterlot was dropped onto it several times. Inside he was screaming, outside, only came muffled moans. Aero was trying to scream for help, his mouth would not obey. He tried to move his forelegs, they too would not obey, his entire body was so disconnected from his mind that the only thing he could feel was his heart beating. His heart was beating fast. It seemed to race faster and faster. Then all of the sudden there was a sharp pain throughout his entire body, and he was out like a light.

As Aero passed out Scootaloo sat in the corner of the treehouse crying for what she had done to her friend. She was worried for his life as if it were her own life.

*****

Aero woke in a bed in the Apple Family home. It was early in the morning and the light was just barely shining in the window. There was a glass of water on a table next to the bed. The room was simple in design save for a wardrobe and a chair. Scootaloo was asleep in the chair. She had a box of tissues on her lap. Her snout and the area around her eyes looked red.

Aero tried to sit up, but was greeted with a sharp pain in his back followed by aching. He also was experiencing a very bad headache. He brought his forehooves to his head to try and ease the pain.

Scootaloo stirred at the noise of Aero moving about. She opened her eyes. They were red and bloodshot, like the filly had stayed up all night just to be there for him when he woke up.

She jumped off of the chair and onto the bed giving him a hug. It hurt him physically, but mentally he welcomed it. She had been worried about him, and he could tell.

Scootaloo spoke in a soft tone. “Aero, I’m so sorry, I won’t ever do that to you again I promise.” She started to tear up again.

Aero opened his mouth to speak only to feel a dry sensation. He wiggled one of his forelegs out of the hug and pointed to the glass of water.

Scootaloo picked up the glass of water and hoofed it over to him. He took a sip and gave it back to her.

“Scootaloo, It’s-” He took a moment to think, should he forgive her for putting him through that pain? “It’s fine, I’m fine, don’t worry.” He said.

He reached his hoof up to her face and wiped the tears out of her eyes.

“I’m fine,please don’t cry. Really I’m fine.” He hated to see her cry and would give anything to just see her smile. He reached forward with a hoof to her chin and gently raised her head to look into her misty tear soaked eyes. “You know, It really hurts me inside to look into those pretty purple eyes of yours and see you cry.” He said. She rubbed her nose sniffing a bit, then smiled.

“R-really? Y-you think m-my eyes are p-pretty?” She asked in a soft tone, and he nodded returning the smile. She blushed and leaned in up to his ear and whispered into it.

“I’m so glad you’re alright, I don’t know what I would ever do if I lost you again.” She said afterwards leaning back over to look him in the face and then giving him a kiss on his cheek. Aero’s face went bright red and he put his hoof on the cheek she just kissed him on and chuckled nervously.

“Heh heh, umm..” He trailed off. “Thanks Scootaloo.” He then hugged her. He enjoyed the feeling of having Scootaloo next to him, the feeling of her heart beating calmly against his racing, that warm smile and those misty purple eyes he was overwhelmed and his mind went blank. He was just about to lean forward and return the gesture, but just then the door opened.

“Not again you two..” Dash said putting a hoof to her face. They broke the embrace and Scootaloo turned to look at Dash, A visible blush across her face.

“Well... He’s up and awake Rainbow.”Scootaloo said timidly trying to downplay her blush. Dash shook her head and pointed to him.

“Yes I can tell.” She said. Scootaloo looked back wondering why Rainbow was so upset. Her eyes went wide when she notices Aero’s wings were flared out, and theres was a blush on his face.

“Heh heh.. Sorry Scootaloo.” Aero said tapping his hooves together.

“Aero, you really need to learn to get them things under control you know! I’m getting tired of being embarrassed!” Aero nodded sheepishly then let out a few breaths and folded his wings back up. Rainbow just rolled her eyes and made her way out.

“When you two are ready come meet me in the kitchen.”

Dash left and Scootaloo looked back at Aero, inches from his face, they stared into each others eyes, then Scootaloo turned away and hopped off the bed, her tail slapping Aero in the face as she jumped off . “Lets go see what Dash wants.” She said giggling making her way out of the room.

‘Always’ Aero thought. then he hopped out of bed stretched a little bit and hobbled on out of the room and into the kitchen.

****

Aero walked into the kitchen stopping for a moment to take in the wonderful smells of what was cooking for breakfast. Apple pancakes waffles smelling like blueberries and wonderful apple fritters just waiting to be eaten. He sat there for a moment rubbing his tummy drooling over the wonder smells until a familiar voice came into his ear.

“Your drooling you know Aero.” Scootaloo said in a somewhat displeased voice.

“So hows yer colt friend feeling this morning Scootaloo?” Applejack asked giggling under her breath. Dash too could be heard stifling a chuckle.

“He’s fine, he- He’s Not my! Oh I give up!” Scootaloo said as she sat down at the table, she blushed and laid her head down on the table trying to hide her face. “You too now Applejack?”

“Hehe.. Ah’m sorry Scootaloo, Ah just couldn’t help mahself. Seeing y’all and Aero together Ah just couldn’t resist teasin ya.” She said returning to her cooking.

“And I bet Rainbow Dash had nothing to do with this?” Scootaloo said elbowing the cyan pegasus in the side giving her a wink.

“Nope! well.. You gotta admit, you’re a terrible pony at hiding it.” Rainbow said chuckling. “Anyway, come over here Aero.” She waved for him to come sit down at the table. “I need to talk to you too.” His ears perked up and he stumbled on over to the table plopping down letting out a yelp then rubbing his flank.

“Are you okay Aero?” Scootaloo asked, Aero just gave her a look rubbing his flank. Scootaloo saw what he was doing and looked away embarrassed. “Oh yeah.. Sorry.” He waved a hoof in front of him.

“Don’t worry about it.” He said placing his hooves on the table. “What is it you wanted M.. Rainbow Dash?” He asked.

“Me and Fluttershy talked over some things yesterday, and we feel you need to get you enrolled into school then find you a home to stay.” Scootaloo then started to pout.

“Aww Rainbow Dash can’t Aero stay with us?” She Rainbow shook her head.

“No Scootaloo, I don’t want to keep coming home or waking up and seeing you two in bed together okay? You two are still too young for that!”

“But Rainbow! Its harmless sleeping! What has sleeping got to do with anything!?” Scootaloo questioned.

Rainbow put her hoof to her face. “You, I’ll tell you when you’re older, but what I say is what happens, okay?”

Scootaloo crossed her forelegs and huffed as she rolled her eyes. “Fineeee” Scootaloo sighed.

“Its ok Scootaloo, its not like she’s saying we can never see each other.” Aero chimed in.

“Oh way to pick her side!”

Aero was a bit taken back by the outburst from Scootaloo. “What did I say?” Everypony at the table just looked at him, and he grinned. “Sorry?” Scootaloo put a hoof to her face and let out a sigh.

“Way to go Aero..” She muttered under her breath.

“Anyway..” Dash said breaking the tension. “ How about after we get something to eat then head on over?” She offered. Scootaloo and Aero nodded then waited for breakfast to be served.

“What are you cooking over there Miss?”

“Applejack sugarcube, just call me that.”

“Okay.” He said smiling

“And Ah am fixin us up a Apple family special breakfast. Don’t you fret Ah’ll make sure to fill up yer tummy.” She said walking over to the table and set the plate of apple goodness down on the table. “Breakfast is served eat up!” Scootaloo and Aero didn’t waste a second and tore into the food wolfing it down stopping only when they needed to breath.

“What did I tell you two about eating too fast!” Rainbow said with a raised tone. Aero and Scootaloo stopped for a second to look at one another, food was mucked all over their faces like they were a couple of foals slopping through their food. “Celestia, where did you two learn table manners at? You look like a couple foals with food all over your faces like that.”

“Ah dunno Rainbow Dash they look kinda cute sitting there like that. They look like two adorable little foals, maybe you should start treatin’ em like foals.” Applejack said with a grin on her face.

“Hmm, you know what AJ, that’s not a bad idea, could give them a bed time, I’m sure somepony has an old crib and hightchair and-” Rainbow stopped when she saw the horrified looks on Scootaloo and Aero’s faces.

“Oh relax I’m just tea-” She was cut off when food hit her in the face.

“Well if you are going to treat us like foals, we’ll act like foals!” Scootaloo said as she threw more food at Rainbow Dash. As the piece of apple pancake slimed off Rainbow’s face a look of disapproval slowly appeared.

“Scootal...” She was stopped again as another piece of food hit her in the face. She wiped it away about to yell at Scootaloo, but she stopped and her mouth fell open when she saw Applejack laughing. “Applejack? Did you just throw that at me?”

“Well Ah can’t let Scootaloo have all the fun now can Ah?” She said giggling, but just then a piece of apple pie smacked her in the face.

“You know what they say Applejack. She who laughs last laughs the most!” Rainbow Dash said laughing. Applejack wiped the pie from her face smiling a bit.

“Heh Ah guess yer right.” She said getting up. “Well we best be gettin cleaned up specially ya’ll two” She said looking at the two young pegasi watching over the scene giggling slightly.

“What’s going on in here?” Apple Bloom asked walking into the room. She stopped and looked around mouth agape at the scene before her. “What in tarnation is goin on in here?”

“A little disagreement.” Scootaloo said.

“Ah can tell.” She walked back out of the room muttering something to herself “Ah always miss the good stuff.”

“Ok you two get cleaned up and meet me out front.” Dash said walking out the kitchen door into the morning light. Scootaloo and Aero headed to the bathroom to get washed up, then a few moments later met Rainbow Dash outside waving goodbye to Applejack and Applebloom. “Lets head out.” She laid down. “Get on Scootaloo.” Scootaloo climbed on and got herself comfortable then Dash stood up and looked at Aero. “You’re alright to fly right Aero?” He nodded and opened his wings taking a few test flaps

“I should be okay.” He said. “My wings still feel a little weird, but I will manage.” He hopped up and tried to hover, but his wings still pretty numb refused to flap properly and he fell back to the ground yelping when he landed on his flank. “OW! Heh heh, on second thought, maybe its better if we walk.” Rainbow let out a sigh and let Scootaloo slide off her back.

“Well lets get going you two, I don’t got all day ya know.” Dash started to walk off in the direction of the school house with Scootaloo and Aero following closely behind.

****

As they were walking ahead Scootaloo and Aero decide to hang back and chat letting Rainbow carry on ahead leaving her to her thoughts.

“So Scootaloo, What are we doing now?” He asked.

“Well I got to go to a parent teacher conference with Dash, and we’re also going to get you enrolled into the school I am in.”

“Oh that sounds cool! I can’t wait to get back to reading again.” Scootaloo looked at him and then let out a displeased huff.

“You’re not an egghead too are you? Darn it how come all the cute ones are always bookworms.” Scootaloo said not thinking.

“Oh so you think I’m cute now?” Aero said, he put on a sly smile and as he walked past his tail brushed against Scootaloo’s wings. She jumped back giggling.

“Ah, you’re wings are ticklish!” Aero said.

“No they aren't!” Scootaloo replied nervously.

“I think somepony is a little too nervous.” Aero replied. At this point he had turned to face Scootaloo and was ready to pounce.

“Aero if you even tr-” Scootaloo tried but she was too late as Aero pounced on her and began tickling her wings.

“A-aero! S-stop it-t!” Scootaloo pleaded between breaths.

“Not until you admit you think I’m cute!” He said.

Scootaloo blushed but kept her mouth shut as best she could while giggling.

“Admit it!” Aero commanded in a playful tone.

“A-Aero!” Scootaloo pleaded, by this point her wings had extended themselves, Aero took no notice to this.

“Aero I think you should leav-” Rainbow was cut off by Scootaloo.

“A-aero I th-think you’re th-the c-cutest colt in-n al-all of Equ-Equestria! Th-there I s-said it!” Scootaloo said.

Aero removed his hooves from Scootaloo’s wings and helped her stand up. Scootaloo was now blushing profusely and her wings were extended. She held her head down low in embarrassment. “Its ok Scootaloo, you’re cute too.” Aero said winking as he continue to walk.

Scootaloo stopped for a moment when she heard this, but put it off as him joking. Then continued on following the two to the Schoolhouse. After a little while the three walked up to the front steps of the school. They stood there for a moment watching the families coming out from inside, Parents with their fillies and colts making their way back into town.

“Lets get this over with.” Rainbow said walking up the steps “And Scootaloo.” The filly looked up to Dash.

“Yes Rainbow?”

“Could you please get them things under control?” She said pointing to the fillies outstretched wings. Scootaloo looked away embarrassed and nodded.

“Its his fault!” She yelled pointing to the blue colt standing next to her. Aero reared back holding his hooves forward.

“Whoa hang on now! I was only messing around!” He replied defensively.

“Well you keep messing with my mind!” She shot back.

“Only because you like it!” He returned not thinking. Scootaloo was about to argue back, but hearing that she was completely taken back, dumbfounded. Her mind went blank and she started to sputter words at a loss of what to say.

“You! I d-don’t! B-but! If you didn’t! I-I, Y-you, I never said-” Scootaloo stopped talking in a vain attempt to keep things from getting worse. She waved a dismissive hoof and walked into the school house muttering to herself.

“You really know how to push her buttons.” Dash said walking up to the colt.

“Years of experience.” Aero said nonchalantly. Rainbow rolled her eyes and walked up the steps.

“Well come on Mr Macho, lets get this over with.” He nodded and followed her into the school house.

Rainbow Dash walked up to Cheerilee followed by the colt and filly.

“Hello Cheerilee.” Rainbow said as she sat down in a chair.

“Hi Miss Cheerilee.” Scootaloo said as she found her desk and sat down at it. Aero hid behind Dash timidly.

“Hi Miss.” He said quietly, almost as if he were fluttershy.

“Rainbow Dash, why are you here and not Scootaloo’s parents? And who is this colt?” Cheerilee asked. She sat at her Desk as she looked through some papers. She eventually found what she was looking for and pulled out Scootaloo’s file.

“Well you see, I am Scootaloo’s guardian now, and this little colt, well he is a long story, we will get into that after we talk about whatever you need to tell me about Scoots.” Rainbow said.

“Well Alright.” Cheerilee said. Rainbow gestured for Aero to go sit down over by Scootaloo. He obeyed and Scootaloo started showing Aero her school stuff.

“So what is this meeting about Cheerilee?” Dash asked.

“Well...” Cheerilee lowered her voice so Scootaloo and Aero could not hear her.

“Scootaloo is failing her reading class, she seems to have trouble keeping up, she is still sounding out long words, its just not something a filly her age should have to do. I am afraid if she doesn’t improve we will have to hold her back a year.” Cheerilee said. She had a genuine look of concern for Scootaloo’s well being on her face. She hoofed a piece of paper over to Rainbow.

“These are Scootaloo’s current grades, and as you can see, she is passing math with a high C, in gym class she is passing with an A, Science class she has a low B, but in Reading she has an F, she is also failing grammar with an F as well, though that ties in with reading.”

“I see, is there any way I can help? I mean, I was never good with that stuff myself.” Rainbow said.

“Well, I suggest you try to read a book with her at night before she goes to bed or something like that, it can stimulate the mind, I have some books here that you can borrow-” Rainbow cut Cheerilee off.

“No, I have a few books at home she might like.”

“You actually own books Rainbow? I didn’t take you as the type.” Cheerilee said.

“Well, thank Twi, she is always forcing new stuff on me.” Rainbow said.

“Alright, well, thats pretty much it for Scootaloo, did you want to say anything about that colt?” Cheerilee asked.

“Well, it’s a long story, but making it short, he is living with me and Scoots right now, and I guess I’m responsible for him. He has never gone to School, so I was looking to enroll him here.” Rainbow said. She looked over to see Aero and Scootaloo were now coloring in some coloring book that was in her desk.

“Well, that can be arranged, how old is he?”

Rainbow gestured for Aero to come over.

“Yes Rainbow Dash?” He asked.

“Can you tell Miss Cheerilee how old you are?”

“Uh, I’m uh, Eleven, I think.”

“Right, thats all I needed, thank you, um?”

“Aero” Dash corrected.

“Thank you Aero, you may go back to playing with Scootaloo now.”

He smiled and ran back over to Scootaloo.

“Well, he seems nice, but we can’t put him in the same grade as Scootaloo due to him never having Schooling, we’ll have to start him a grade below and work from there.” Cheerilee took some enrollment papers out of her desk.

“You’ll have to fill these out, if you can have them here before School starts back up, we can put him in a class.” Cheerilee said.

“Alright, sounds good, anything else?” Rainbow asked.

“Thats it, you may go.” Cheerilee stood up. “I can’t wait to have you in class here Aero, and See you when School Starts Scootaloo!” Cheerilee said as the three walked out of the school house.

The afternoon sun was rising and a patch of dark clouds was forming on the horizon as the three walked down the steps.

“Where to now?” Scootaloo asked.

“Well Scootaloo we need to go home first and change your bandage on your leg. Also a storm is approaching so we need to get home before it hits. So hop on.” Scootaloo nodded and hopped up onto her back and made herself comfortable. “Think you able to make it back to my home Aero?” Dash asked. Aero unfurled his wings and ruffled them up a bit taking to a hover and floating there for a moment.

“Yeah. I should be good to make it there.” she nodded and the three lifter off heading back to Rainbows cloud home with the storm rapidly approaching them.

****

The three landed just in time right before the first few rumbles of thunder were heard.

“Quick get inside you two!” Dash said ushering them in and closing the door behind her just as the rain started to pour. “Whew just made it!” She said walking over to Scootaloo laying on the couch. “Okay Scoot let me take a look at your bandage.” Scootaloo nodded and rolled over on her side exposing the dirty bandage stuck to her leg.

“What happened to you there?” Aero said looking at it.

“Mistake I made being overconfident about a week ago. Got cut pretty bad too.” She said getting comfortable. Dash then pulled the bag out from under the table and slipped a hoof glove on.

“Let me take a look at that Scoot.” She gently peeled the bandage off exposing the skin underneath. Aero looked over watching what was going on with rapt attention.

Scootaloo blushed when she realised that Aero was watching. Scootaloo looked away from Aero. “Uh, Aero, do you uh, mind, I uh, I don’t really like the idea of being all exposed here with you watching.” Scootaloo said.

Rainbow was confused by this. “Scootaloo, you’re fine with it being me? What’s wrong with Aero watching?”

“He’s a colt!” Scootaloo squeaked.

“So- Oh” It snapped in Rainbow’s head. “I see.” she said smugly.

“Rainbow! Don’t say it!” Scootaloo said in an angry tone.

“Oh, why whatever do you mean Scootaloo?” Rainbow said in a smart tone of voice.

“I know what you are thinking, don’t sa-”

“Its because you don’t want your Colt Friend to see your pink fleshy skin?” Aero thought out loud.

Both of them stopped and looked at Aero. Aero then realised he had just spoken his thoughts.

“Uh, did I just say that outloud?” Aero asked.

Both Scootaloo and Rainbow nodded. Scootaloo looked mortified that Aero had basically just confirmed to Rainbow what was suspected all along.

Rainbow snickered as she thought of the next phrase to come out of her mouth.

“Aero, come here.” Scootaloo said gesturing for Aero to come closer.

He timidly stepped closer.

“Closer.” Scootaloo said. “Closer, thats right, just a few more steps.” She said. Just as he came within hoofs range, *Whack!* All Aero could see for a moment was stars.

He tumbled backwards and rubbed his head. “I should have seen that one coming.”

“Yes, yes you should have.” Scootaloo said.Aero just sat there rubbing his head sitting back farther then before. Dash laughed and returned to treating the fillies wound applying the salve to it then finishing off with a fresh bandage.

“Ok Scootaloo all set you can get up now.” Scootaloo nodded in thanks hopping off the couch then making her way over to the young colt trying to shake off the pain he had just received.

“Got a headache?” She asked.

“Yeah kinda.” He said. She gave him a shove knocking him on his back.

“Good.” She said with a huff. “Next time try not to insult your friend like that.” She said walking away, but letting her tail swish over his nose as she walked away.

“Why do I have to put up with this” Dash said in annoyance rolling her eyes at the two. “I’m gonna get something to eat.” She said hopping up to her hooves and walking into the kitchen soon after Scootaloo and Aero followed.

A few hours later Dash was sitting on her couch face deep into a Daring Do book reading it. Scootaloo was too trying to read a copy of it, but she was having trouble. Flipping it upside down and back up again, and after a few frustrating moments of fighting with it, she gave up and let out a displeased sigh letting her ears fall back in defeat. She looked over to Aero sitting comfortably reading some book he had picked up when they were at the school talking with Cheerilee and was quietly reading it.

Scootaloo set the book down on the couch. She felt ashamed of herself.

‘I can’t even read right! I can’t fly! I don’t have a Cutie Mark! What else could go wrong!’ She thought to herself.

Aero looked up from his book and saw Scootaloo in her state of distress. “Scootaloo? Are you ok?” He asked.

Scootaloo just sighed again as she threw the book at the couch, it landed open next to Aero. he scanned the page then looked back up at Scootaloo who was silently letting tears fall.

“Scootaloo? Are you, are you having trouble reading?” He asked.

“It’s the stupid words! I can’t read, I’m stupid!” She yelled.

“Scootaloo, you aren’t stupid, you just have trouble reading, I could.” He paused and his ears dropped down to the sides of his head. “I could help...” He offered.

“You’d help a stupid pony like me?” Scootaloo asked in a depressed tone.

“Hey, you aren’t stupid, come here.” He said as he put his book down and picked up the Daring Do book. Scootaloo moved across the sofa so she was sitting up against him. He pulled the blanket he was under up over her.

Dash peaked over her book to make sure everything was ok, content it was fine, she continued reading her book.

“Alright, when you read, what’s the trouble you have?” Aero asked.

“Well, when I try to read...” She paused not wanting to share. She felt like she wasn’t smart.

“Scootaloo, come on, you can tell me anything. When you try to read, what happens?” Aero asked. He gave a small smile of reassurance.

“Well, when I look at the book, I can read some words, but, the bigger words look all jumbled to me, like, somepony rearranged the letters.” Scootaloo said.

Aero looked at her trying to figure out what was wrong, he had read about this back when he stayed in the Fillydelphia library.

“I remember a thing, some ponies have it, I forget what its called, but it makes it harder to read, um, can you read this line to me?” Aero said as he pointed to a line in the book.

Scootaloo nodded and began to read. “Daring Do took the Cr-Crt-Cstyl-”

“Crystal.” Aero said correcting Scootaloo. Scootaloo just looked down and closed her eyes, ears falling to the side of her head.

“Hey, don’t feel bad Scootaloo, it was one word, come on keep reading.” Aero said, again with a reassuring smile. He started to rub her back in a supportive way.

“Daring Do took the Cr-Crystal Ob, Obsk, Obe, Obl-”

“Obelisk.” Aero corrected.

“Ob-Obelisk and flew to the exit ap-ape, apur-”

“Aperture.”

Scootaloo threw the book away from her.

“I’m stupid! I can’t read! I’ll never be able to read.” Scootaloo said, she lowered her head and Squeezed her eyes shut, letting tears fall.

Aero put his free foreleg around the other side of Scootaloo and pulled Scootaloo into a hug. “Scootaloo, you aren’t stupid, nopony is stupid, you just have to learn to cope with it and you’ll get better at reading.” Aero said.

Scootaloo leaned into the hug and continued to cry. Her face was right up against Aero’s chest. She spoke, muffled by his coat. “No, I’m a stupid pony.”

At this Aero’s supportive tone took a change in direction. He grabbed Scootaloo and forced her out of the hug. “Look at me.” He said. Scootaloo kept her head down. He lifted her head with his hoof. “You aren’t stupid.” He removed his hoof out from under her chin now that he had her attention. He took one of her hooves and dug the edge of one of his forehooves into her fetlock to make sure she was paying attention. “You are smart, you aren’t a stupid pony, you are very smart, who cares if you can’t read right? You are a smart pony, and a good pony, and a pretty filly.” He said.

She looked at him when he said that last comment. “Y-you think I’m pretty?” She asked.

“Yes, you are, and-” He stopped speaking. Their faces were so close to each other. They stared into each others eyes. Aero started to lean forward and-

“Alright, I’ve finished my book, time for bed you two!” Dash said as she came over to them pushing them apart. Dash had been paying attention the entire time, confident that Aero could help Scootaloo, but she’d be damned if she’d let them kiss.

Scootaloo backed off rubbing her foreleg with a hoof. Aero held up a hoof to his mouth and coughed.

“Umm.. heh heh, sorry.”

“Aero you’re sleeping on the couch tonight.” Dash said hopping up off it. Aero nodded and hopped up making himself comfortable, but just then Scootaloo walked up.

“Aero you can sleep in the bedroom I’ll stay down here. You haven’t had a good nights sleep in weeks probably and a nice soft bed would be just what you need.” She offered. He looked at her confused tilting his head scratching it.

“Umm.. Thanks? But what about you Rainbow Dash?” He asked her.

“Well its about time me and Scootaloo had separate rooms so its fine. You can take her new room and I’ll sleep in my parents room.” Dash said, but noticed the two young pegasi were giving her odd looks. “What?”

“You never told me your parents still lived her Rainbow.” Scootaloo said. “I thought only you lived here by yourself.”

“Well yeah I kinda did..” Scootaloo looked at her now confused.

“Oh? Did they move out? or are they just on vacation?” Rainbow held up a hoof.

“Don’t worry about it Scootaloo it will be fine, its not like they care anyway. Now get up to bed” Dash said pointing to the stairs. Aero nodded and made his way up to Scootaloo’s room and just before he closed the door Scootaloo spoke up.

“Goodnight Aero! Pleasant dreams.”

“Same to you Scootaloo!” He said happily a moment later the door closed and Scootaloo turned to look at Rainbow.

“Well I’m gonna hit the hay.” She said holding a hoof over her mouth covering the yawn. “See you in the morning Rainbow Dash!” She rolled over to get comfortable fidgeting a bit.Dash put a hoof to her head ruffling her mane.

“Goodnight Scootaloo sleep tight.” She patted her on the back and slowly walked up the stairs reaching the landing and staring down the hall. She took a deep breath for some reason her heart was slowly speeding up as she got closer to the door at the end of the hall. She could swear the hallway was getting longer and longer like some otherworldly force was keeping her from reaching the end of it. With each step she took she felt an odd heat emanating from the walls and the faint sounds of screams and an unearthly moaning that felt like it was a past memory replaying itself as she continued down the hall.

She finally reached the door and put a hoof to if to push it open, but when she did a cold blast of air escaped from the void and sent a shiver down her spine as it blew past her. When she entered the room all sound had stopped. Nothing. Utter silence as she peered around at the things about. She walked up to a dresser with a large mirror sitting on the middle of it held up by a small wooden frame. There were pictures stuck in the sides of the frame. She leaned up to the pictures and looked them over. Various scenes of her with her parents at events in her past were adorned on them. She smiled looking over the pictures, memories of her past were starting to flood in. When she went back to staring at the mirror a figure appeared behind her smiling, wanting to reach out and touch her. She spun around instantly.

“Whos there!?” She said frantically scanning the room, but there was nopony just utter silence. She then heard a whisper pass by her ear as she scanned the surroundings.

“Rainbow Dash...” Came the voice in a soft tone. She felt the hair in her mane raise as if somepony had ran a hoof through it. She spun around again only to find a breeze blowing in through the open door, the sounds of the storm could be faintly heard in the distance.

“It’s just the wind.. Thats all. My mind is playing tricks on me thats it.” She shook her head a few times to clear it out and made her way over to the bed. It was neatly made as if nopony had touched it in years. She pulled the covers back and slowly climbed in pulling the covers over herself. She let out a yawn and slowly drifted off to sleep where dreamland (or so she thought) waited.

****

Scootaloo was laying on the sofa, waiting for all noise from the upstairs to stop. Eventually she could hear no hoof steps and she got up. She quietly walked over to the stairs and stealthily peered up them. It was dark save for a small lamp in the hallway. She took one step up the stairs carefully worrying it would creak, then she remembered it was made out of clouds. She stepped up the stairs and made her way to her bedroom door.

Scootaloo was nervous, if Dash caught her now...

She opened the door and slid in fast then closed it again. Aero looked up from the bed and saw Scootaloo.

“Scootaloo? What are you do-” He was cut off when Scootaloo rushed over and put her hoof over his mouth.

“Shh, I’m sleeping up here tonight, like, like a sleepover, just be quiet so Dash doesn’t hear.” Scootaloo said. Aero nodded. Scootaloo removed her hoof from Aero’s mouth.

“Alright, where are you going to sleep then?” Aero whispered.

“In my bed.” She responded.

“Where am I going to sleep then?” He asked dumbfounded.

“In my bed” Scootaloo said.

“You mean, like, together?” Aero asked.

“Yeah it’ll be fun, now scoot over so I can get in.” Scootaloo said as she jumped into bed pulling the covers up over herself. Aero moved over to give her some space.

“How am I suppose to fall asleep, I’m afraid I’ll push you outta the bed.” Aero said.

“Just...if you’re that worried about it put your forelegs around me then or something.” Scootaloo said.

“Alright, but if Dash comes in its your fault.” Aero said.

“Don’t make me give you an ache, my rear hoof is very close!” She warned.

“Alright, Alright! Calm down.” He said in fear of being kicked, as he brought his forelegs around her.

“Now Go To Sleep.” She said.

There was silence for a few moments.

“I can feel your heart Scootaloo.” Aero whispered.

“What?” Scootaloo said in an annoyed tone, she just wanted to sleep.

“I can feel your heart beating, and its, its kinda wierd...but, its, nice, you have a nice heartbeat.” He said awkwardly.

Scootaloo sighed. “Go to bed.”

Aero mumbled “Fine” under his breath.

Another few moments passed and he sat awake watching Scootaloo breath.

“You know, you’re kinda, uh...cute when you’re trying to fall asleep.” He blushed when he said it, though the room was too dark for Scootaloo to notice.

“Aw, thats so sweet....” She paused. “Now can it so I can go to sleep.” She growled.

‘So much for being romantic Aero, good job.’ He thought to himself.

Soon after both pegasi fell asleep in their embrace. One content, the other annoyed.

Author's Note

15,500 or so words... documents likes to fragment uploads, so if anything is missing... Also note: This is an old file that I finally got around to uploading. (Read: Documents finally let me upload it to fim without major fragments.)

Shared Origins

Chapter one Re-write Author
Secret_Shadows

Rewritten by
Secret_Shadows & Enlistedpony
Edited by avorin

“Just as real events are forgotten, some that never were can be in our
memories as if they happened.”

It was late at night a storm previously scheduled for that evening was raging outside, but in the home of our two yet to be sisters slept their parents in their fluffy cloud bed. The father a proud pegasus with a brightly colored orange coat. A fiery red and yellow mane sat atop his brow. He was sleeping peacefully embracing his lovely wife. A pegasus with a glimmering cyan coat. A beautiful purple mane with a touch of blue and green highlighting it sprawled atop her head.

All was good for the two parents they had a wonderful life. The father a full time supervisor at the Cloud factory, and his lovely wife, a manager for the local weather service overlooking Ponyville. They lived just outside Cloudsdale in a quaint home floating just above the small town. In the room next to the parents was a sleeping young filly around the age of five. She slept peacefully, her small cyan chest rising and falling with each breath she took. Occasionally making a quiet whinney now and then. Her mane a mix of colors matching the rainbow itself was draped over her peaceful face.

The pegasus mare suddenly stirred awake instantly realizing the cause of it. She turned to her husband and spoke. “Refraction wake up!” The pegasus mare shook him vigorously. The stallion pegasus slowly stirring opened his eyes they were deep purple in color. Looking to his wife her eyes were wide a wonderful shade of magenta. He sleepily said.

“MMmm... What is it Skylight? It’s really late ya know.” His eyes slowly closing bags under then from a strenuous day at work in the Cloud factory.

“It’s time. The foal is coming, we need to get to the hospital now!” A distressed look now on her face.

“Oh my! Are you sure? Is it really coming?” He replied in a now more alert tone, shaking off the effect of sleep instantly.

“Yes, I can feel the foal coming, we need to hurry! Go wake up our daughter, we need to get going to the hospital.” She was trying to stay comfortable as best as she could. Refraction quickly hopped out of bed and made his way to his daughters bedroom. He opened the door and made his way over to her bed giving her a light shake on her shoulder trying to get her to wake up.

“Rainbow please wake up. We need to take your mother to the hospital she is going into labor.” He continued trying to wake the sleeping filly for a moment. Finally she stirred, rolling over she opened her eyes, a mirror image of her mother looking back into Refractions she mumbled then spoke.

“MMmm.. Wha..What? Oh hi daddy what’s up?” She was on the verge of drifting back off to sleep. her father realizing this gently picked up drowsy filly and set her on his back.

“Come on Dash, we need to hurry and get your mother to the hospital, and you falling back asleep is not helping.” He was making his way back to the door with the young filly now once again drifting back off to sleep. He looked back to make sure she was settled so she wouldn't slip off he smiled and then continued on his way back to his wife.

“Aww.. Dashie having a hard time staying awake?” Said Skylight as she gently brushed a hoof through her mane pulling it out of Rainbows face.

“Yeah this dang filly could sleep through a stampede.” Refraction chuckled. “But its fine, I’ll carry her. We need to get you comfortable though, give me a second.” He gently set the sleeping filly down next to her mother. Skylight then draping a wing over the sleeping filly. He then made his way over to the window. He was about to open it when Skylight voiced some concern.

“Refraction umm... Do you think its safe to get one of them clouds out there? The storm that was scheduled was pretty fierce. We don’t want to spread it to areas where it was not scheduled to be.”

“Naa it’s alright and besides, this it Refraction you’re talking to ya know? Strongest, fastest most awesomest wrangler of storms!” He boasted.

“Oh Refraction.. I swear you’re rubbing off so much on our dear Dashie here. Before you know it she is going to be rushing break neck through the clouds and boasting just like you do!” She chuckled to herself.

“Yep, she’s daddy's little girl alright!” He smiled as he looked at the pair resting in bed. “Give me a sec I’ll be right back!” Pushing the window open he then flared his wings and darted out the window into the storm. Dash had stirred when the talking was going on. She now looked up at her mother and said.

“Where’s daddy, mommy?”

“He went out to get a cloud so he can take me and you to the hospital.” Skylight said. Just as Rainbow was about to speak up a crack of lightning sounded causing the filly to start hiccuping a bit as Refraction popped back in through the window with a moderately calm storm cloud in his forehooves.

“Refraction express at your service! My fine mare and filly. Express ticket for two to Ponyville Medical center! Hop on.” He said in a cheerful tone. He then made his way to the bed. Gently he picked up the half awake filly and set her down on the cloud returning to his wife. She put a foreleg over his shoulder Refraction then unfurled his wings coming to a hover by the bed he put both of his forelegs under her and gently lifted her off the bed and floated over to the cloud. He then set her down on it.

“There now, all set gals?”

“Yeah we are read- ohhh... please hurry! The contractions are getting more intense! I don’t know how much longer it will be.” A slight look of pain was forming upon her face as she was starting to take short breaths.

“Right. Okay, hold on you two I’ll fly as fast as I can.” Refraction then turned to the window once again unfurling his wings he then grabbed the end of the cloud and shot out through the window into the now seemingly calm night.

****

Flying through the night Skylight had noticed for some reason the violent storm was now seemingly nowhere to be found. A confused look on her face she turned her head sideways a bit and asked.

“What happened to the storm Refraction? It was raining like crazy a second ago.” Skylight resumed looking around wondering why it was so seemly quiet.

“Oh you know.. I kinda relocated parts of it a bit to make our trip to the hospital smoother.” He said shyly. Waving a dismissive hoof into the air.

Skylight snapped her head back at the stallion. Shocked as what she just heard. “You what!? Where?” She was worried where the storm had landed.

Refraction seeing his wife’s concern reached out and brushed a hoof through her mane he then gave her a gentle peck on the cheek. “Relax babe.. It’s not like its going to be a problem. Besides, I wanted to give you the most comfortable ride to the hospital and not get drenched on the way there. What could possibly go wrong ya know?” His words made her feel somewhat better, but she was still rather upset for his recklessness.

“Well, I guess I can forgive you this time, but next time think before you act ok?” She reached over and bopped him on the head with a hoof. “Its not a good example for our kids to be rash and reckless understand?”

“Ow!” Refraction yelped rubbing his head. “Yeah, Yeah.. I gotcha, I’ll remember next time. Sorry! Now lets pick up the pace. We need to get you to the hospital before the timer on your oven beeps.”

“Oh haha you’re such a joker aren’t you?” Skylight smiled at the comment.

“Yeah.. but you love me for it babe.” Refraction leaned over again and give Skylight a kiss. She felt better after that just then another contraction hit her.

“Ohh.. hurry, hurry! They are getting closer now, not much time left!”

“We are almost there. Hmm.. thats funny, I don’t remember a storm was scheduled to be over this area tonight. Refraction said pointing a hoof in the direction of the hospital.

“What?” Was the only thing Skylight was able to say before the pains of foal birth took her breath away. They finally landed at the entrance and made their way inside the hospital. A rather fierce storm was now forming in the skies surrounding.

****

“We need a doctor! My wife is in labor!” Shouted Refraction as they entered the hospital from the emergency entrance. Various medical ponies approached the couple one being a maternal doctor. He approached and quickly examined the mare.

“Get this pegasus into maternity quick!” A few orderlies arriving quickly with a gurney. They gently lifted the mare off the cloud Refraction had rustled up and placed her on the gurney, and proceeded into the maternity ward.

“Your daughter will have to wait outside sir.” Said the Doctor as he was prepping for the delivery.

“Okay. Where is the closes room I can keep her in while I am in there with my wife?” Refraction lifted Rainbow off the cloud and bucked it out the door he had just entered placing the small filly on his back.

“We have a waiting room across the hall you can put her in. We’ll send in a nurse to keep watch over your daughter while you're in with your wife. Will that be okay?’’ The doctor waved a hoof to a nurse behind the counter and she nodded.

“Yes that will be great thank you.” Refraction then walked over to the waiting room and made his way to a couch setting Rainbow on it. He then rubbed a hoof through her mane causing her to stir. The filly opened her eyes and looked up at him.

“Daddy? Where are we? Where’s mommy?” Rainbow looked around the room. It was quiet, a few ponies were milling around the receptionist’s counter some questions could be heard being asked in the distance.

“Your mother is in the next room across the hall. She is about to give birth, so I am going to go over there to keep her comfortable. You have to stay here no children allowed in the delivery room sorry. Don’t worry though, this nice nurse is gonna be keeping you company and watching over you while your mother and I are in the next room okay?” He looked up and saw the nurse had arrived and was standing next to him and Rainbow.

“Aww.. such a cute filly. What is your name little one?” The nurse asked.

“Rainbow Dash, Miss nurse pony.” Rainbow smiled at the kind face looking at her.

“Hehe, aww no need for formalities Rainbow Dash, just call me Sunshine.” She replied.

“Sorry.” Rainbow blushed a bit and tried to get a bit more comfortable on the couch.

“Heh, heh Mind if I call you Sunny for short miss?” The little filly asked in a cute sleepy tone.

“Aww.. you are so sweet aren’t you. Sure you can.” The nurse looked down at filly smiling and blushed a bit.

“Well sounds like you two will be alright. Okay Dash, I need to get going your mother is waiting. If theres anything you need just ask Sunshine here got it?” Refraction said as he got up and walked over to the door.

The small filly yawned, “Okay daddy, but I think I am just gonna go back to sleep. Wake me up when you ponies are done okay?” The little filly said now nodding off back to sleep.

‘Heh.. yep, could sleep through a stampede alright.’ Refraction though. “Okay Dash, sleep tight I’ll see you in a few.” He opened the door and walked out heading over to the room his wife was in. Taking a quick peek through the window he saw Skylight in a bed with various monitors around her and a heart beat monitor strapped to her foreleg the doctor was asking her some questions.

“So.. Skylight right?”

“Yes doctor what do you want to ask me?” She replied.

“First off my name is Gentle Wing, and how are you feeling at the moment ma'am? He took her foreleg in his hoof and placed a stethoscope to her chest to time her pulse and check her breathing.

“Fine. I am in a little pain though, but I think we both know why.” They both chuckled at that comment. Soon afterward another contraction hitting the mare.

“Ohhhh.. yeah.. I think the foal is about to come out. Is my husband here yet?” Refraction entering the room soon after that. He walked up to Skylight and took a hoof in his.

“Hey babe how are you doing? I am right here for ya. Rainbow is sleeping in the next room I got a nurse watching over her.” Skylight leaned over and gave Refraction a kiss. The contractions now coming on more frequent.

“Ohh.. I...I had better days.” She chuckled gripping her husbands hoof with each contraction.

“You’re doing fine ma’am keep it up!” Came in an encouraging tone from the doctor.

“T-That Storm outside is looking pretty scary don’t you think Refraction? Skylight said as she was trying to keep her mind occupied and off the pain of the contractions.

“Yeah, I am going to have to remember to scold the dang foal who thought to have a storm that size appear over a hospital of all places..” He remarked. By this time the contractions were getting closer and closer Skylight’s breathing becoming more labored. Refraction coaching his wife keeping her breathing in check while comforting her.

“I see the head!” The doctor called out.

“Push honey! Come on you can do it! I am right here for you” Refraction was keeping his wife’s hoof in his own. Standing on his hind legs he reached over with his free hoof to wipe the sweat forming on her brow.

“Ohhh.. its coming! The foal ohhh.. I love you so much Refraction.” Skylight said breathlessly.

“I love you too babe. Keep it up you’re almost done!”

The storm outside at this point had reached full steam and the wall themselves were actually starting to shake a bit.

“It’s a filly!” Indeed it was. A little filly with an orange coat and a purple mane matted on her head. The little filly opened her tiny eyes a pretty purple color and cried. The doctor wrapped the small filly in a blanket and hoofed the foal over to her waiting parents.

“Here you go ma’am congratulations!”

“What are going to name her sweetie?” Refraction asked. Taking a peek at the now quiet and comfortable filly.

“Scootaloo, how does that sound?” Skylight was exhausted but her eyes brimming with happiness looking as the ball of life in her hoofs. “Go get Dash, she will want to see her little sister. “

“Okay I’ll be right back. Way to go babe! Scootaloo is a wonderful name. I love it!” Refraction was elated at the arrival of his newborn daughter and excited to tell Rainbow Dash she would have a sister now. Making his way to the door he took note of the storms ferocity raging outside. It was blanketing the window in sheets of hail and rain sending a slight shiver down his spine.

‘I am really gonna have to give the idiots that though a storm of this level was needed a serious talking to.’

As Refraction walked across the hallway the lights blinked as a crack of very loud thunder roared overhead.

“Dash, wake up! Do you want to see your little sister?” Refraction said brushing the fillies mane.

“You bet!” Came the excited reply. Refraction smiled and helped Rainbow to her hooves.

“Okay just wait a second. I need to check if its alright with the doctor first, you can wait at the door got it?” Refraction and Rainbow walking together with Refractions wing draped over the filly.

A crash of sudden lightning sent the halls of the hospital into darkness. Some screams were heard as Rainbow was trying to get close to her father. Thunder resounding in the distance.

“D-daddy what's happening? I can’t see!” Her father could feel the filly shaking up against him. He tightened his embrace and looked down on the panic stricken filly trying to come up with some way to calm her down.

“Hey, hey.. Calm down now Dash, don’t worry daddy’s here and he’ll take care of you. No need to be shaking me to pieces now will ya? Everything is going to be fine. Now let go of me before I get numb from all the shaking you’re doing.” He squeezed her tighter and then released, letting her stand by herself.

“Okay since these dang hospital ponies seem to have forgotten to pay their magic bill it looks like you're coming in with me. Can’t have you out here shaken a hole in the floor now can we?” Refraction chuckled. Rainbow was not amused.

“H-hey I-I am not scared! It’s just.. I have not eaten in a while and I...I get all shaky when I am on empty got it daddy?” Rainbow stammered. Refraction looked down on the filly raising an eyebrow he smiled.

“Oh sure, sure I believe you.” He laughed. Rainbow’s eyebrows flattened out and she stood up on her hind legs throwing her forehooves into the air in frustration.

“Daddy! Come on! This is Rainbow Dash you’re talking to! I am not afraid of nothing!” She boasted. But Refraction was nowhere to be found. Rainbow looked around in the darkness searching for her father but to no avail. Just then a tap on her rump made her screech “AAHHH!” She jumped and fell back down on her haunches letting out a soft yelp “Ow.”

“HA! Not afraid of nothing are we? The mighty Rainbow Dash defeated by a single hoof tap on her flank!” Refraction busted out laughing now.

“Y-you tricked me! That’s not fair! Grrr..” Rainbow stood back up rubbing her flank clearly not amused and wave her father off with a hoof.

“Okay fun aside Miss toughness,” Refraction chuckled. “Lets go see your mother now shall we?” He pushed open the door to his wife's room and the pair entered not realizing the water running down from the ceiling on a rather large emergency back up electrical outlet with a few oxygen tanks lying up against the wall next to it just outside Skylights room.

****

“Why has the emergency lighting not came on yet? What’s going on? Somepony check the connections!” A orderlie shot out into the darkness. Get the maintenance pony in here! For a few minutes the ponies in the hall looked around for the outlet to plug in the emergency lighting.

“Over there! I see the emergency backup power outlet. Funny though, why is it shiny?” Said a nurse she was waving a hoof to the maintenance pony so he could come over and hook up the back up lighting to it.

****

“So Rainbow Dash, this here is your siste-” Before Skylight could finish a loud electrical explosion type sound came from out in the hall.

“What the hay was that!?” Refraction snapped his head back to the door a reddish-yellow glow now appearing on the glass. Some voices on the other side were screaming.

“What is going on out there Refraction? You need to go find out!” Skylight said with a rising fear coming from it. Refraction looked back to his wife now holding Rainbow and the newborn all of them shaking with fear. He walked back to them and leaned over and gave his wife a kiss then reached down and gave Rainbow a hug.

“Hey, hey.. now you mares need to calm down,” In a soft tone. “I’ll go check stay put. Heh, not like you can move anyways babe.” He chuckled as he ran his hoof through Skylights mane but she pushed it away.

“This is serious Refraction! Something is wrong! Ponies don’t scream for no reason you foal!” Skylight was clearly upset fearing for her kids safety.

“Listen Skylight..” The stallion taking on a serious tone now. He looked back at the door now a odd heat emanating off it. “I don’t know what's happening, but I know I will do my absolute best to keep you all safe you understand?” The mare and filly nodding.

“Whatever happens.. I’ll take care of you two. Now if you excuse me.” Refraction started to the door. Upon reaching it a sudden shout rang out.

“Look out! The oxygen tanks! There are going to blow!” Refraction had a split second to just glance back at his family then... BOOOMMM!! kkkkkkrrrrrrrr... A large explosion rocked the area echoing down the halls. The oxygen tanks finally stressed to their breaking point blew out in a violent fiery blevy sending shrapnel flying everywhere. The shock wave was so powerful it picked Refraction up and violently threw him across the room screaming “AAAAHHHHH!!!” Finally slamming him up against the adjacent wall with a sickening CRUNCH! sound coming from his back. A painful “UHHH” groan coming afterwards. He toppled down out of the impression in the wall he made hitting a counter on the way down finally crashing to the floor knocking over some medical equipment. A painful moan coming from the stallion afterward. A look of terror now on the mare’s face. Skylight screamed.

“AAAHHH!!!REFRACTION!” She wanted to rush over to her husband but Skylight being too exhausted from foal birth, she was still unable to get up and run to his aid. Rainbow Dash had froze from the whole ordeal. Her mouth left wide open, her mind disconnected she was simply staring at her fallen father.

“Rainbow Dash!” Skylight yelled instantly pulling the filly out of her state of shock and turning to face her bed stricken mother.

“Y-Yes M-mommy?” Dash sputtered.

“Go help your father! See if he’s alright!” Rainbow nodded and jumped off the bed and ran to her fathers aid landing at his broken form a second later.

“DADDY! Please! Are you ok? Wake up! Oh, no no no!” She was crying uncontrollably. The stallion stirred and coughed, some red liquid spilling on the ground as he coughed.

“R-Rainbow? That you?” He was having a hard time focusing on the blue blur standing in front of him. Trying to get to his hooves he half managed but only to fall back in pain as he noticed a painful white thing jutting out from one of his forelegs. His wings twisted at very painful angles he was unable to move them without extreme pain rocketing through his body He looked at his wife through the rising smoke, she nodded and waved a hoof to signal him to say what had to be said. He then took a deep breath and spoke.

“Dashie dear... You need to go get help. I am hurt pretty bad, I...I can’t stand up. Please!” A tear now running down his cheek. Rainbow was shaking and crying uncontrollably. Refraction reached forward with his uninjured foreleg and lifted up Rainbow’s tear ridden face with his hoof her tears running down his foreleg. “Come on now little mare you’re stronger than this. Show daddy that courage you’ve always had. You’re in charge now and daddy needs your help. Don’t let me down ya hear?

“O-okay daddy I-I’ll go look for the doctor don’t you worry! Rainbow Dash will look after you!” She reached over to her father with a foreleg and rubbed his cheek with her hoof clearing the tears away. “I’ll be right back don’t you worry!” Refraction nodded. She stood up took a deep breath and started towards the door looking back one last time to her father. He returned with a warm smile and winked then pointed to the door.

“Go now, Dash. Please!” Rainbow exited to the hallway. The fire now raging all around her.

“Refraction,” Skylight looked over to her husband now trying to crawl over to his wife leaving behind a trail of feathers and blood.

“Yes my love?” He said almost out of breath as he reached the bed. He pulled himself up alongside her then reached over and placed a foreleg over her chest giving her a kiss.

“We need to get Scootaloo out of here.” She stated calmly. Skylight had started to cover up the small filly as best as she could wetting down the blanket so the heat and smoke from the fire would not harm her.

“I...I can t-try.” Refraction strained himself to stand on his hooves, falling a couple times but finally managing to get to his hoofs. Skylight looked at her husband getting upset when she saw his eyes were rapidly going distant. She realized then he was slipping away, but knew he still had it in him to get her to safety.

“The emergency exit is over there.” Skylight pointed to the door. “Take her and get out! Don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine, she's more important, you know that. Now please go!” She hoofed the blanket over to Refraction and ran her hoof gently down the side of his face making Refraction feel a bit calmer. She was crying, her face covered in soot from the fire. Tears making channels in her fur.

“D-don’t worry my love... I’ll make s-sure she’s safe trust me.” He placed Scootaloo on his back and slowly made his way to the emergency exit. The fire singing his fur and wing tips along the way. He looked back to his newborn daughter covered in a blanket completely oblivious to what was happening.

“Hey there Scootaloo. I have to say, I am a b-bit upset... I w-won’t get to see you grow up but, don’t w-worry. You have a strong and fearless sister that will take good care of you. I...I’ll always be watching over you... and your mother too... Y-you will grow up to be a fine mare someday... I...I can see it. Make me and your mother p-proud alright? Take good care of your sister too... Y-you two will need each other...” He opened the door and collapsed on the landing passing out. The lack of blood and searing pain had finally taken the last of the strength from his body. An orderly coming down the fire escape saw the two lying on the landing. The filly now crying in her blanket, he walked over and looked at Refraction.

“Are you alright Mr?” Refraction stirred for a moment opened his eyes and looked up at the young orderly.

“S-save h-her...” Was all he managed to say. The orderly panicked sitting down next to the pegasus he reached forward with his hoof placing it on Refractions neck right beneath the chin. Nothing.. His ears fell back and he looked down letting out a breath. He slid the stallions eyes closed and picked up the small filly and proceeded to head down the stairs towards the exit.

****

Back in the room the pegasus mare sat alone. The room now ablaze, fire slowly burning around her making a low kkkkkkkkkkkrrrrrrrr sound with an occasional crack or pop. She was sitting on her bed her eyes closed, a peaceful look on her face silently humming to herself. Her fore legs crossed at her chest holding her hoof’s to her heart. She opened her eyes and looked up at the now burning ceiling a groaning sound coming from it.

“Refraction my love..” She sniffed a bit. Her eyes glassy, tears staining the pillows and her cheeks. “I am coming. Wait for me please...” Her voice now a little hitched.

“Rainbow Dash my darling daughter. Please take care of your little sister Scootaloo.. Make mommy proud okay? You two will need each other.. Mommy will always love you.” The ceiling now taking on a more aggressive groan.

“I will always be with you..” The ceiling finally giving away it came crashing down with all its fiery weight on the bed and its poor occupant.

****

Rainbow Dash was standing in the hallway of the hospital right outside her mothers room. It was a scene of terror. Fire burning all around smoke choking the small fillies lungs. A blast mark on the wall next to her mothers room in the center of it a large impression had been left and metal was strewn everywhere. The filly took a quick look around it was a dreadful sight. A few ponies were lying on the ground some up against walls, blood was coming from their ears most were pretty badly burnt. The sounds of screaming and moaning in the distance. Rainbow steeled herself and started to slowly walk forward.

‘Come on Dash, your father is counting on you don’t let him down!’

She made her way to the receptionist’s desk and lifted herself up to her hind legs putting her forelegs on the counter.

“Help! My daddy is hurt bad! Anypony here? There was nopony to be found. Rainbow looked down. She then glanced back to the room her parents were in, but what she saw next truly terrified her. A sudden CRASH! The door of her mothers room flew off its hinges and slammed against the opposite wall. Fire was billowing out from the room. Rainbow screamed.

“MOMMY, DADDY NO

“Mommy... daddy... please no. Not this... Oh Celestia, please no..” She was truly in despair crying on the floor the fire now almost surrounding the poor filly. Smoke trying to steal away the last precious bits of air. Just then a mares voice came into her head.

‘Rainbow Dash, you need to get up you are in terrible danger!’ It was almost regal in tone.

The filly snapped her head up and wildly started to looked around trying to find the source.

‘My little pony please, you need to get up your parents would not want to see you like this.’

“Wh- who are you?”

“Who I am is not important, you need to get up you are in terrible danger! Now, GET. UP. Rainbow Dash!’ The voice said in a calm but commanding tone.

Rainbow Dash slowly got to her hooves coughing a bit from the smoke.

“I...I’m scared. Where do I go? The fire is everywhere!” Said the young filly she was shaking.

‘Calm down little one. You will be alright it is not your time yet, but you need to hurry please. Get moving!’

“O-okay..” She said shakily. “I-I’ll try.” Rainbow turned around taking a final look back to the room her parents were in she shed a tear and sniffed a bit. Lowering her head to the ground so she could take a deep breath she made her way forward down the hall. Rainbow walked for a little while coming to a door. Atop the door was a sign with the word “EXIT” glowing in the middle of it. She reached forward and pushed but it was jammed. Disheartened a bit she turned to walk back, but right before she could the ceiling in front of her collapsed the force of it picking her up and throwing her into the door. She braced for the impact forcing her forelegs forward slamming into it forcing it open. She crashed on the landing and gave a painful groan.

“UUUHHHH!” She had hit the door full force with her forelegs breaking one them in the process and receiving some cuts and burns from the fire when the ceiling collapsed. Rainbow was on the verge of passing out from the pain but that familiar voice again came back into her head.

‘I know you’re hurting all over Rainbow Dash, but you must be strong. Come on now please get up, you can do it! I have faith in you little one.’

Rainbow Dash whimpered a bit. She then took a few breaths and grit her teeth. Forcing herself to her hooves whimpering while she was straining to get up. Her body was hurting all over a few tears were running down her cheeks from the pain and her breathing interrupted every now and then by her sniffing and hitching trying to hold back the tears. Keeping the weight off her injured foreleg as best as she could the small filly then unfurled her wings and hovered into the air.

This although was not the best idea due to smoke rising, but the stairwell was relatively clear so she decided to try to hover down the stairwell. She didn’t think she could manage walking. The pain was excruciating when she applied even the slightest pressure to her injured foreleg. Her stamina and strength being rapidly exhausted from flying, but after a few minutes of making her way down albeit falling down a few times due to exhaustion, Rainbow had finally made it to the bottom floor.

The injured filly then made her way to a wall and gently rested up next to it. Taking in a deep breath she was very exhausted at this point and on the verge of passing out. She braced herself against it and landed on her hind legs first. She then let her wings fall to her sides too tired to bother folding them back up. She lowered herself down on her good foreleg first wobbling a bit, but keeping the pressure off the broken one and slowly hobbled over to the door. The storm now almost gone the night sky could be seen through the glass. She reached up and pushed, but being the last ounce of her strength Rainbow Dash collapsed and passed out the moment it opened falling down onto the wet grass. A second later a fire pony responding to the scene saw the small injured filly and rushed to her aid.

“Over here!” He shouted “We have a survivor. It’s a filly and shes injured! Get the medical ponies here NOW!” A doctor from the hospital rushing over to begin administering aid.

“Wake up little one are you okay?” Rainbow stirred and opened her eyes.

“Wha? wh-who are you?” She looked up frightened.

“There, there now little one you're going to be fine. My name is Gentle Wing, what is yours?”

“My N-name?” Rainbow’s mind was swimming but slowly it came into focus.

Gentle Wing took one of Rainbows forelegs and started to take her pulse afterwards placing a stethoscope to her chest.

“Could you please take in a deep breath? In, then out okay little one?” Gentle Wing next flashed a light in one eye, then the other. Rainbow’s eyes fluttering shut and her head turning away wincing a bit when the light was placed over one then the other. Rainbow next did as asked by the doctor, she inhaled as deep as she could, but only to start hacking afterwards spitting up a bit of black phlegm in the process. Some paramedic ponies arriving on scene shortly after. The doctor waving them over with a hoof.

“We need oxygen here now!” Gentle Wing said looking over to the paramedics. He then turned and looked back to Rainbow. She had stopped coughing but was wheezing in between breaths. “Yes, your name little one what is it? The doctor asked. The paramedics now by her side placed an oxygen mask over the fillies snout and put a heartbeat sensor on her foreleg.

“I-I’m not suppose to talk to strangers my parents said.” Was the muffled reply. Rainbow’s breathing was getting a lot better now that she was taking in fresh clean oxygen from the mask placed over her muzzle. She was then picked up and placed gently on a gurney, the paramedic ponies put a warm blanket over her and placed a neck brace around her neck. Rainbow shifted a bit looking around frantically. There was noises from the fire and various ponies around her talking. She was frightened.

“Mommy.. daddy.. I’m scared” Rainbow whimpered.

“It’s okay little one we are here to help but we can’t help really unless we first know your name.” Gentle Wing said giving her a comforting smile. The paramedics now placing a splint on Rainbows broken foreleg next giving her an injection of a very mild and foal safe sedative to ease her suffering. They then proceeded to start first aid on the injured filly cleaning her wounds and wrapping them in clean bandages.

“R-Rainbow Dash mister..” Rainbow said quietly, shrinking up and pulling the blanket up to her head she was starting to get sleepy.

“Aww, There, there now Rainbow Dash its alright. We are going to make sure you are well taken care of and find your parents okay?” Gentle Wing offered. Not really knowing of this poor fillies parents fate.

“T-thank you.” Rainbow replied, looking to the doctor feeling better albeit very exhausted. She yawned and laid her head back on the pillow closing her eyes.

“Sleep now Rainbow Dash, you look like you really need it.” Said the doctor quietly while rubbing his hoof through her soot encrusted mane.

****

Ten years later...

“Rainbow Dash, nice work!” Came the reply from the weather manager. “You have been working hard these past few weeks and deserve some time off. Please take the next couple months off and enjoy them. You will be paid too, how does that sound?”

“Sounds great boss, Thanks!” Rainbow was happy she was finally getting some time off. It had been a strenuous past couple months of hard work maintaining the weather for spring time and now she had the summer to goof off. So without hesitation the pegasus flew off deciding first to find a comfy place to nap for a bit. Scanning around she zeroed in on a park in the distance it was relatively quiet with only a few patrons. A few sitting on blankets sprawled out enjoying the warm sunny day, some sitting at picnic tables eating and chatting about random events going on around Ponyville. Rainbow Dash circled around a couple times finally eyeing an open bench at the corner of the part nestled under a tree.

‘Perfect I’m pretty beat.’ The pegasus thought. Slowly making her way down to the ground she landed inches from the bench folded up her wings and plopped down on the bench. Stretching out she got comfy and after a few minutes drifted off to sleep.

****

Rainbow was desperately running through the hallways trying to find a way out the fire growing ever so close with each step. Coming to the door she was stopped it was jammed, but a sudden collapse behind her threw her through the door she then crashed on the landing giving out a painful moan.

“Mommy! Daddy! help me!”’ She said gasping for air about to pass out.

“Rainbow!”

“M-m-mommy?” Rainbow stammered

“Wake up Rainbow!”

“Come on Rainbow Dash, you promised me you would start to teach how to fly today.” Scootaloo hopped up and started to prod at Rainbow trying to wake her up. Rainbow was mumbling incoherently.

“Mommy... daddy...” Scootaloo continuing to press Rainbow into waking up she tried tickling Rainbow on her exposed tummy. Rainbow twitched for a second the events of her past still playing in her mind. The tickling had quite the opposite effect. Instead of causing the pegasus to chuckle or laugh it further enhanced the already terrible nightmare. Since the tickling in Rainbows mind for the moment anyway, felt like the fire lapping at her sides. She struggled and tried to push away actually grabbing and picking up Scootaloo by accident.

“No!!” Rainbow screamed. Not realizing the filly was mere inches from her muzzle. Scootaloo flinched and pushed back frightened, not understanding Rainbows motives. She managed to get free and flopped down on her rump on the pavement eliciting a sudden yelp in pain. Rainbow Dash finally snapping out of her nightmare her eyes shot open and the world came into focus quickly. She looked down to her side noticing the small orange filly whimpering from falling out of Rainbow grasp.

“Oh Scootaloo.. Umm... are you alright? Sorry there squirt, I was kinda wrestling with my thoughts there and you interrupted me in the middle of it. Are you okay? Not hurt are you?” Rainbow felt a little upset for tossing Scootaloo off like that. She offered a hoof to the small filly and then helped her get to her hooves.

“Ahh.. naa. It’s alright Rainbow Dash, you just kinda startled me no worries. I am a tough little filly you know..” Scootaloo replied waving Rainbow off with a hoof.

“Well thats good.. So, What did you want from me?” Rainbow returned, getting up to stretch a bit afterwards.

“You promised to start showing me how to fly today. Remember?” Scootaloo said looking at the pegasus. Rainbow kinda shrugged. She was rudely woken from a not so nice dream, at least she was thankful for that part. but, still no dout woken before she wanted to be.

“Uh heh.. Scootaloo ya know umm.. thing is..” She was cut off. Scootaloo staring right back defiantly knowing full well Rainbow was trying to weasel her way out of this.

“You’re not trying to weasel your way out of this are you?” Scootaloo shot back scrunching her brow squinting her eyes while pointing a hoof at the pegasus.

“No no! It’s just I got this thing here that needs to be done and uhh.. its gonna take me probably the rest of the day to get it done..” Rainbow blurted out. A lie. Scootaloo easily saw right through it but felt like she would have a bit fun embarrassing the cyan mare. A plan started to formulate in her mind, a smile forming on her face.

‘Rainbow Dash is NOT going to get out of this! She promised me weeks ago she would spend some time with me and show me the basics of flying. So, I guess I am going to have to trick her into helping me. Hehe this is going to be fun!’

“”Oh yeah? Like what? Scootaloo raised an eyebrow and crossing her forelegs she then tilted her head sideways and stared right into the pegasus eyes mocking her. Rainbow started to sweat a bit she reared her head back rubbing a hoof on her neck.

“Heh, heh.. Well you see it’s..” She was trying to think of a way to get this filly to believe her, but her options were running thin and her mind was drawing a blank. She was about to blurt something out, but Scootaloo managed to interrupted her first. Quick to keep the pressure on the cyan mare.

“Well I’m waiting..” Said Scootaloo keeping her gaze locked on Rainbows face. The flyer was having a hard time keeping a straight face and started to look off in different directions further reinforcing the orange fillies drive. Rainbows mind was still drawing a blank and she frantically searched for something to say.

‘Oh gosh think Rainbow! You’re not going to lose an argument with this filly are you?’ Scootaloo spoke again pulling Rainbow out of her thoughts, scrambling what she was trying to come up with and she looked back in shock, surprised at the filly.

“So important you had enough time to fall asleep in the park?” Scootaloo said turning sideways slightly while waving a hoof in general direction of the park. Her plan was working and she was enjoying this. A small smirk forming on her face. Rainbow picked up on this right away.

‘Oh, no no no. This filly is NOT trying to make a foal out of me! Is she now? Well, I need to think of a way to turn this back on this little runt.’ Rainbow was pondering for a moment her hoof at her chin, when Scootaloo spoke up again tapping her hoof on Rainbows shoulder to snap her out of her trance.

“Are you just going to stand there like that? You look like you’re lost...Why are you stalling?” A small giggle slipped out. Rainbow instantly now knew the orange filly was trying to have some fun at her expense and was rather upset. She scrunched her brow and squinted her eyes looking at the filly who was trying to suppress her laughter.

“Stalling!? What are you implying at there squirt?” Rainbow now more focused her blood pressure started rising a bit but, Scootaloo was cool and calm her expression remaining the same further infuriating the now upset mare.

‘Hehe okay, got her a bit ticked off. Time to put my plan into action.’

“Whatever do you mean Rainbow Dash?” Scootaloo replied in a sweet tone tilting her head a bit trying to make the best puppy dog face she could. It was starting to get hard for the filly to hold her composure. Rainbow was not amused.

“What are you up to kid? You trying to make fun of me?” Rainbow sat down and crossed her forehooves and looked directly at the orange filly. Scootaloo was trying desperately now to contain her laughter as she bit her lip, her cheeks flushing a bit. Dash raising an eyebrow at the gesture.

The orange filly waved a hoof trying to downplay her change in expression “No no thats not it. You said you had something else you had to do right? Well what is it? It can’t really be that important if you had enough time to sleep in a park now can it? Is it practicing some new tricks to try to impress the Wonderbolts? The filly replied trying her best to keep an honest face.

“Well yeah.. thats it yeah.. Wonderbolts training..” Rainbow returned while looking up absentmindedly. Putting a hoof to her chin again thinking of something.

‘Sweet threw her off track on that one! Okay, time to let her boast a bit maybe I can get her to slip up.’ She looked up at Rainbow with an excited expression. Knowing it was a facade. Letting Rainbow boast a bit would give the orange filly the chance to flip this around on the cyan mare. “Oh cool! So is it hard?” Scootaloo chirped afterwards standing back on her hooves. She gave a huge fake smile and buzzed her wings to make her look excited.

“You bet squirt! It takes a pretty rough and tough pegasus to be a Wonderbolt. You need to be a highly skilled flyer to manage the awesome stunts and aerial acrobatics they perform.” Rainbow said letting her mood lightened back up. She dropped her gaze and stood back up then unfurled her wings and hopped into the air to hover a bit off the ground. “And I am that kind of pegasus! Fastest flyer in Equestria and all that! I got the skills to pay the bills!” Rainbow boasted while doing a hoof pump in the air.

“Skills huh?” Scootaloo cooed slyly. Her smirk returning. The pegasus concentration on what she was saying broke, she raised an eyebrow then looked down at the filly now sporting a smirk on her face. Rainbow felt like she was being mocked at now. She landed back on the ground and gave a slight look of uneasiness.

“What did you say Scootaloo?” Rainbow Dash again sat back down and pulled her attention to the filly trying to read her eyes.

“I was saying a mare so highly skilled in flying such as yourself,” She nodded and pointed to the pegasus. “Should have no problem flying with such a prestigious team such as the Wonderbolts.” She stopped for a moment a mischievous smile grew on her face Rainbow Dash not noticing this. She then resumed. “Hay, I bet a skilled flyer such as yourself would have no problem showing anypony such ability and awesomeness with absolute ease!” Scootaloo said in a cheerful tone then winked at Rainbow eliciting a spark of pride in the flyer.

“Your right Scootaloo! I am awesome! and I could train anypony to be just as awesome, even you!” Rainbow beamed. She jumped into the air and pushed her chest out. A strong sense of pride and arrogance resounding in her voice.

“Great so.. when do we start?” In an instant Rainbow Dash’s eyes went wide at the comment. doing a quick double take the cyan pegasus blurted out.

“Wait, What?” She lost her concentration on what she was doing and stopped flapping her wings, forgetting she was still hovering a few hoofs off the ground. She promptly plopped back down on her rump and let out a yelp.

“Ow.” Afterwards rubbing her bruised flank with her hoof.

“Well... you did say you could train anypony to be awesome even me! Soo.. What time is good for you?” Scootaloo replied smiling brightly knowing full well she had achieved her goal.

“B-but, but you said, I-I said..” Was the only thing Rainbow Dash was able to sputter.

“Yeah I know right? Totally cool of you to agree to help me out and all that. So, I figure we can start now? Its nice and sunny and the park is pretty empty, how about over there?” Scootaloo pointed to an open field just in the distance turning and starting to walk over to it, a now noticeable pep in her step.

“Arrgghh... Fine!” Rainbow threw her head back rolling her eyes and huffed. “Lets get this over with shall we? You got lucky this time squirt! I was just tired, thats the only way you were able to flip that around on me!” Rainbow spat out. She was disgusted. She had let a filly pull a fast one her.

“Sure, sure Rainbow, I believe you.” Scootaloo said snickering. Rainbow facehoofed. She felt pretty stupid she was fooled so easily

‘Horseapples! How did that little runt manage to do that! I can’t believe I fell for it! Boy I feel stupid!’ But even though she felt pretty foalish for being tricked so easily a smile was tugging at her lips.

‘Nice one Scootaloo, I’ll have to remember that.’

****
Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo were out in the in the open field it was a beautiful day. The sun set high in the afternoon sky. A warm summer breeze blowing from the west it was a perfect day for flying. Rainbow jumped up and hovered a few hooves off the ground she was looking down at scootaloo giving some beginners advice.

“Okay Squirt time to start learning to be awesome!” A bit more boasting from the cyan pegasus. Scootaloo jumped up and buzzed her wings a bit. She was actually pretty excited to be learning flight from her idol.

“Awesome! I can’t wait!” She was shaking from excitement a sparkle in her eyes.

“Calm down there Scoots you're gonna get all tired before you ever get off the ground.” Rainbow chuckled. Scootaloo tried but it was actually rather hard to contain herself and not just jump up and scream in excitement. Ever since the first time she laid eyes on the cyan flyer she had dreamed of this day of learning to fly with her and now it has finally come true!

“O-okay I’ll try Rainbow. Sorry, heh-heh.. just a bit excited thats all. I have been waiting for this day for awhile now.” She said still shaking from excitement. Rainbow raised eyebrow and looked down on the orange filly.

“Really? Wow.. thats actually pretty cool! Well don’t you worry! Your idol will not disappoint! So lets start with the basics, hovering. Watch me okay?” Rainbow landed and spread her wings and fluttered them a bit actually lifting off the ground slightly to demonstrate how to set up for a hover.

“See? You want to start like this. Take your time, don’t push yourself too much we don’t need you rocketing off into the sky now do we?” Rainbow smiled and waved a hoof to Scootaloo signaling her to start. The small filly opened her wings, a small twist in her face Rainbow didn’t notice, and she started to flap her wings slowly building up momentum.

“Phew! This is tough! I never really tried to lift my own body weight off the ground before!” Scootaloo said breathlessly. She continued to flap her wings and after a minute she was starting to lift off the ground.

“Awesome job squirt you’re doing great! Keep it up!” Rainbow oblivious to the fact Scootaloo was gaining a bit of altitude. Scootaloo was starting to tire her face flushed from exhaustion she was rapidly running out of stamina. She looked down and to her horror noticed she was about ten hoofs off the ground. Rainbow snapped to her senses and took notice of Scootaloo’s plight she yelled at the orange filly.

“Scootaloo! You’re too high! and you’re getting tired! Come back down before you hurt yourself!” Rainbow unfurled her wings and was about to fly up to catch the filly but, was a second too late. Scootaloo wings finally to a point they could not fly anymore gave out and she fell.

“Rainbow Dash help! I’m falling! My wings are too worn out to flap anymore!” She screeched. As she was tumbling her legs were flailing in the air.

“Hang on squirt I’m coming!” She darted in the direction of the stricken filly only to watch her slam on the ground in front of her. Scootaloo then gave out a painful yelp. ‘NO! Scootaloo! Oh Celestia, please be alright!’ Dash landing a second later next to the filly. “Are you alright squirt?”

“M-my leg really hurts D-Dash, b-but I d-did good right?” The filly sniffed a bit. “I flew pretty high for my first time. It felt g-good knowing you helped me.” Her voice hitched she was whimpering. “D-don’t worry about not being there when I fell.. I’m pretty good at taking care of myself afterall.” She looked up to Rainbow Dash her eyes full of tears she put her hooves to her face. Rainbow Dash looked over the filly and quickly assessed the situation, noticing a small blotch of red forming on the fillies hip. She further examined around the area eyeing a sharp looking rock with a patch of blood on it wedged into the ground right next to where Scootaloo was sitting.

“Scootaloo,” Rainbows voice taking on a serious tone “You did great.” She reached over and put a hoof on the trembling fillies shoulder. “Can you stand up?” Scootaloo looked up and placed her hoof on Rainbows.

“Y-yeah I think I can.” Her voiced hitched and she sniffed a bit. “C-could you help me please? M-my hind leg really hurts.” The filly was having a hard time getting up the injured leg was sending searing pain through her body when she tried to put weight on it.

“Sure thing Scoots.”Rainbow walked over and helped Scootaloo to her hooves. Scootaloo managed to stand but, remembered to keep less pressure on the injured leg so the pain was less intense. Rainbow Dash again glanced back at the fillies hip. Blood was leaking steadily out of a rather deep cut on the injured leg.

“We need to get you to a hospital now! Scootaloo get on my back now. No back talk got it?” Scootaloo nodded and hobbled over to the side of the cyan pegasus. Rainbow lowered herself to her belly to give Scootaloo an easier time climbing on. She helped to lift the poor filly on her back with her wing. She then unfurled the other wing and took off towards Ponyville medical. Arriving at the emergency entrance shortly after.

****
Once they landed Rainbow Dash made her way into the hospital’s emergency entrance the doors sliding open the moment she approached. She walked up to the receptionist's counter and waved a hoof at the nurse sitting behind the counter. Her coat white with a pretty pink mane atop her head. A nurses cap with a red cross in the center of it. She looked up at the two with bright blue eyes and immediately recognized them.

“Welcome back Rainbow Dash, here for another visit?” But upon inspecting the cyan pegasus she took immediate notice they she was in fact not injured.

“Nurse Redheart we need to see a doctor now! Scootaloo got hurt pretty bad!” Rainbow was exaggerating somewhat but nevertheless worried about the injured fillies well being. She lowered herself to her belly and helped Scootaloo slide off her back with her wing. Some of Scootaloo’s blood where her leg was resting had stained her cyan coat.

“S-sorry Rainbow Dash, I-I didn’t mean to.” Scootaloo said looking away her ears against the side of her head.

“It’s alright squirt, you couldn’t help it.” Rainbow Dash wretched at the site of the crimson substance eerily warming the area it was stained on. Redheart instantly taking notice of the injured filly. She jumped up from behind the counter and raced over to quickly asses the situation. She then led the the two in the triage room pointing to a bed with a large circular light hanging from the ceiling over it. Rainbow went and sat down at a bench in one of the corners of the room while Redheart took the orange filly by her side and led her to the bed gesturing for her to get on to it.

“Scootaloo dear.. Could you get up on the bed please? I need to assess the severity of your injury.” Scootaloo nodded and hobbled up to the bed trying to climb on but she was unable to herself. The nurse saw this and helped her up. Redheart then leaned over and examined the cut on Scootaloo's hip. The area was very swollen, blood and dirt had crusted around the laceration. Taking a minute to fully take in the situation she got up and walked over to a cabinet and grabbed a bottle of antiseptic and a few gauzes, a minute later returning to the the side of the bed and sitting next to the orange fillies injured hip.

“Scootaloo dear.. I need to clean your wound this will sting a bit are you ready?” The fillies eyes had fear in them.

“Rainbow Dash, could you please come here over and hold Scootaloo’s hoof? I feel you comforting her will help calm her nerves.” Redheart began to open the bottle and take a few gauzes out of a package, putting the opened bottle to the gauze. The smell of antiseptic filling the air.

“Oh, uh,O-okay” She got up off the bench and walked over to the filly she leaned up on the bed and took a hoof in hers and ran the other through the upset fillies mane.

“Don’t tell anypony I was this mushy now okay squirt? Rainbow whispered. Scootaloo instantly felt a lot better and laid her head on the pillow.

“Heh, heh the same for me to okay Rainbow Dash?” Rainbow simply nodded and gave a smile. Redheart proceed to gently blotch the gauze on the wound, getting quiet yelps every time she touched the tender area. After a few moments she had managed to get the area clean.

“Okay Scootaloo, I am going to have to give you a booster shot, because I have no idea when you last had one give me a moment please.” She then turned to the mare still leaning on the bed next to her.

“Rainbow Dash, please do me a favor; keep pressure on the wound okay? We need to get the bleeding to stop.” The nurse handing the pegasus a clean gauze and showing her what to do. Rainbow then placed the gauze on the cut and applied a gentle amount of pressure. This was enough to get the bleeding to slowly subside but caused the filly to squint her eyes closed and whimper a bit from the pain. Redheart got up and walked back over to the cabinet setting the bottle back on the shelf and reaching for a needle. Rainbow shifted herself, trying to get comfortable but keeping a hoof on the clean gauze over Scootaloo’s cut. The bleeding had now stopped. Redheart after a few moments returned with the needle.

“Okay dear, here is the needle its not very big so it will not hurt a lot ok? Scootaloo cringed at the sight of needles and laid her head on the pillow and rested her forelegs over her face.

“ O-okay I-I’m r-ready I guess.. Please make it quick, I-I don’t like needles.” Scootaloo stammered her voice hitching a bit. Rainbow patted the filly on her back this made Scootaloo feel a bit better. Redheart soon afterwards stuck the needle into Scootaloo’s shoulder. She then pushed the plunger down injecting the medicine into the small fillies body. A cool feeling coming from it. A slight twitch and a whimper coming from the filly shortly after.

“There now all better see?” Redheart then rubbed the fillies mane with her hoof. I am sorry to say this though but, you will likely need a few stitches. This will also require us to shave the fur off around the area of the laceration and you will need another needle unfortunately a lot closer to the area in order to numb it.” Scootaloo’s heart dropped at the sound of what was going to be happening in a few minutes.

“Also, I will need contact information from you for your parents or guardian Scootaloo. This is so we can contact them and let them know of your injury.” Redheart left the room for a second to get the paperwork.

‘Oh no! What do I do? If they find out.... I need to think of something! Fast!’ Scootaloo was frantically trying to think of something. Then an idea popped up. She gulped, swallowing the lump in her throat and turned to face the cyan flyer.

“R-Rainbow Dash? I need to ask you a BIG favor, please don’t question it at this moment.” Rainbow Dash looked at the filly with a confused look on her face. Taking a second to think. She then looked at the filly with a serious expression.

“What going on Scootaloo? Why are you acting so upset? Redheart is only doing what needs to be done. Your parents need to be notified so they know you're alright.” Rainbow sitting back and stretching a bit. All the leaning over was giving the mare a painful backache.

“Please Rainbow! Tell Redheart you’re my guardian. Please! You have to do this for me! I-I’ll explain later!” Scootaloo was now shaking and panicking. Rainbow Dash was struck back. What secret did this filly not want to reveal to her in the hospital? Though Rainbow was hesitant to accept such a dubious request, it kinda was her fault this had happened. She was not paying attention and let Scootaloo drift up to high and thats how the filly got hurt. So she decided.

“Okay Scootaloo, I’ll cover for you this time. But, when we get out of this hospital there is going to be words.. You got that? Scootaloo nodded and breathed a sigh of relief. Redheart soon re-entering the room with some paperwork.

“So Scootaloo who am I to put down as contact information?”

“Rainbow Dash Ma’am” Scootaloo said hesitantly. Rainbow starting to get a bit nervous herself here and was tapping her hooves together sweating a bit. Redheart took note of it but looking at the two she simply shrugged and scribbled it down on the paper. Taking the next few minutes to ask Rainbow Dash some questions. Like where she lived and was Scootaloo allergic to anything. The cyan pegasus looking to Scootaloo for some of the answers. Redheart finished her questions and got up to make her way to the door turning back for a second.

“The doctor will see you in a moment and next time be more careful okay?” Scootaloo nodded and waved goodbye. The nurse stopped and looked at Rainbow Dash for a second. The pegasus raising an eyebrow in question. Redheart smiled and giggled a bit.

“I feel I am going to be seeing a lot more of you two.” She gave a wink to Rainbow Dash and chuckled. The cyan mare huffed rolling her eyes and waved the nurse off with a hoof.
Yeah, Yeah..” She replied clearly not amused. Redheart gave a final wave goodbye to the filly she then turned and left the room. A few moment later the doctor a unicorn entered.

“Hello little one what’s your name? Mine is Patches, and I’ll be your doctor this afternoon.

“Scootaloo mister, and the pegasus over there,” The orange filly pointed to the mare sitting next to her. “Is Rainbow Dash.” Rainbow giving the doctor a smile and waved.

“What’s up? Nice to meet you Patches.” Rainbow replied. The doctor walked over to the bed and picked up the clipboard with his magic, taking a second to study it he set it back down.
and made his way to the side of the bed.

“Okay Scootaloo, it looks like you’ll need about six stitches so you're going to need two shots. First a painkiller called Ponacaine to numb the area so you don’t feel any pain. Next is a very mild and foal safe muscle relaxant to keep your leg from twitching while I sew you up okay? Oh and I’ll have to shave a small area around your cut so your fur doesn’t get into your wound after I sew it up. Don’t worry though It will grow back and cover up the scar and you’ll never even notice it.” Patches got up and walked over to the cabinet he grabbed a few syringe’s, some surgical sutures and finally a surgical needle for stitching the fillies wound closed. He placed them on a small medical table sliding it over to the side of the bed with his magic. Scootaloo looked up and examined the instruments laid out besides her feeling sick to her stomach.

“I-Is this gonna hurt Patches?” She was nervous.

“Well.. The first injection when I numb the area around your wound will hurt a bit yes, but afterward it will only feel like somepony is tugging on your skin and it will no longer hurt anymore. Sound good?” Scootaloo nodded. She felt better. Her tummy no longer feeling queasy and she breathed a sigh of relief. The doctor next heading over to a medical fridge to grab a couple vials out of it with his magic. He walked back over to the table and set the vials down on them. Scootaloo getting a bit inquisitive looked at the stuff splayed across the small medical table and decided to speak up.

“What is all this stuff?” She asked in a inquisitive tone. Pointing her hoof at the table while looking at the doctor. Patches smiled and sat next to the small filly and started to explain in a foal friendly way what he was about to do.

“Well this stuff here,” He said pointing to the sutures and needle. “Are the tools I am going to use to sew your cut up with.” Picking up the needle with his magic and examining it a bit, then setting it back down on the table.

“The syringe is well.. I feel you know what those are for already right?” He looked over to the filly. She looked away a bit getting nervous at the sight of the needle soon to be pressed into her body again.

“Ugh.. I really, really don’t like needles!” Scootaloo said throwing her forelegs on her head in frustration. Rainbow placed a hoof on her back to help calm the nervous filly.

“Cheer up squirt! You are a pretty tough kid taking all this in and still managing to ask how he is going to sew you up, I admire that.” Rainbow responded trying to comfort the young filly.

“Really? That is so awesome of you to say that! Thanks Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo was feeling A LOT better now seeing her idol admire her for her courage. Scootaloo was not even bothered now by the fact the doctor had to stick her with a few more needles and sew up her wound.

“Alright then, bring it on doc! I can take it! Need to show this mare here right I am no foal!” Was the young fillies statement eliciting a smile from Patches and a giggle from the pegasus sitting next to her. He got back up and walked over to a counter and picked up a fur trimmer with his magic and and a blue cloth with a square shaped hole in the middle and walked back over to the filly and set the cloth and trimmer down on the table. He reached over and grabbed a syringe and the vial of numbing medicine. Sticking the syringe into the rubbery opening at the top he pulled a measured portion of the liquid into the syringe and set the vial back on the table.

“Okay Scootaloo I am about to numb your leg are you ready?” He set his hoof down on the fillies hip and used his magic to levitate the needle over her wound just outside the laceration preparing to inject her with it.

“Yup” She replied with not a bit of fear in her voice now watching. The doctor smiled and then stuck the needle into her just above the cut. The filly winced a bit but that was all. He then injected the medicine into her the area quickly becoming numb the pain fading away almost instantly. He then discarded the spent needle in a red box with a funny emblem on it. He picked up a second syringe and filled it with some more numbing medicine and made one more injection just below the wound to further make sure the filly would not experience any pain when he was sewing her up.

“Feeling better now?” The filly nodded. “No more pain will come okay?” Patches picked up the last syringe and filled it with the muscle relaxant and injected it into the filly. All she felt was a prick as she watched the needle go into her body. Rainbow turning away cringing at the sight.

‘Heh, the mighty Rainbow Dash afraid of needles too eh?’ Scootaloo mused. She looked at Rainbow Dash. The pegasus trying to avoid watching what was going on.

“Heh, want me to hold your hoof now Rainbow Dash? You seem upset.” Scootaloo giggled. The cyan mare looked back at the filly and rolled her eyes.

“Pfftt.. Whatever..” She said. Waving a dismissive hoof. The doctor chuckled a bit and Scootaloo laughed.

“Okay, I am going to shave your flank around the cut to prep it for the operation are you ready?

“Yup, heh, heh I’m interested to see how you do this actually. Maybe I’ll get my cutie mark in operations! Who knows! Scootaloo hoof pumped at that idea. Rainbow laughed. She was glad to see the filly’s demeanor was returning to normal.

“Don’t get ahead of yourself now Scoots. We still need to get you into the air now don’t we?” Rainbow said and she flared her wings a bit. Scootaloo smiled at the pegasus and she nodded. Patches picked up the trimmer and turned it on with his magic. He slowly trimmed a square shaped area around the cut. The vibrations giving the young filly a weird feeling. She blushed embarrassingly and looked away. Rainbow saw this and chuckled a bit. The doctor had at that point finished trimming exposing the fillies pinkish skin underneath. He leaned over and picked up the blue cloth from the table setting the trimmer back down on it. Next he laid the blue cloth down on the fillies leg the square section keeping the wound exposed.

“Okay I am about to start to stitch your wound closed are you sure you want to watch this?” He said as his horn lit up and he levitated the needle and sutures in the air threading the suture into it.

“You bet! Now that you have numbed my flank, I can’t feel a thing and it’s pretty cool to watch what’s going on.” Patches nodded and lowered the needle down to the wound and stuck it in. All the filly felt was a tugging feeling on her skin as she watched with rapt attention as he pulled the suture closed causing the wound to slowly seal up. Rainbow again turned away and cringed when she saw the needle go back in Scootaloo’s skin. The filly snickered, Rainbow again waving her off with a hoof then crossed her forelegs and huffed. After a few minutes the doctor finally finished up and put his tools in a disinfectant bottle, placing the unused and still sealed sutures back into the cabinet.

“All done. I just want to dress the wound with a bandage and the nurse will see to your discharge. You have been a very brave filly Scootaloo, I was pretty impressed.” He patted her on the head. Scootaloo smiled. The doctor finishing up he put the medicine back in the fridge and set the trimmers back in a drawer of the counter. He got up and walked to the door turning back for a second.

“Be careful next time little one. Take your time okay? Rushing into things will get you hurt again.” He looked over to Rainbow Dash and winked at her. The mare just rolled her eyes and stuck her tongue out at the doctor. He laughed, waved goodbye and walked out. Nurse Redheart soon re-entering a moment later.

“Okay Scootaloo first things first. No more flying tonight got it?” The filly frowned but nodded.

“That muscle relaxant may cause drowsiness, so no strenuous activities okay? Also, take it easy for the next day or two. No flying or flight training okay?” Redheard gave a stern look to the cyan pegasus, she shrugged titled her head looking away a bit and huffed.

“Fine, if you say so.”

“This will give the wound some time to heal and toughen up a bit got it?” Scootaloo nodded again and sighed, she pouted a bit. “Second, Rainbow Dash, you will need to keep a watch on her taking care of her wound. We are sending home with you a carry bag full of the needed medical supplies to care for her injury. You will need to change the bandage twice a day and apply an antibiotic salve to help speed up the healing. Be watchful for excessive redness, swelling, pus forming or Scootaloo having a high fever. Return to us in a week for a checkup ok? The sutures will be taken out then if the healing goes well.” She then handed Rainbow the carry bag and some paperwork detailing what needs to be done.

“Got it.” Rainbow slid the bag over her back and tucked the paperwork in one of them. Redheart looking at Rainbow she cringed when she saw the red stain on her back.

“Rainbow Dash please come with me for a moment. I need to wash the blood off your back you could get an infection.” The pegasus slid the bag off her back and walked over to a sink with the nurse. Redheart turned the water on and and waited for it to get warm. Next grabbing a bottle of antibacterial soap and squeezing some on to the cyan mares back. She then picked up a brush slipped it on and proceeded to scrub Rainbows back rather vigorously causing the pegasus to squint her eyes closed and grit her teeth.

“Easy now Redheart, you trying to scrub my fur off? Geez .” Redheart lightened up and blushed a bit embarrassed.

“Sorry Rainbow Dash, I guess I got a bit carried away but, all done. Here, let me get a towel to dry you off.” The nurse went to a cabinet and pulled out a white towel and dried off the pegasus back. Rainbow returning to her bag slipping it back on her back. She then waved a hoof to Scootaloo.

“Come on squirt time to go. Get on alright?” Scootaloo nodded and got off the bed careful to apply the ever so slightest pressure on her injured leg. She then hobbled over to Rainbow who was waiting lying on her belly. Scootaloo climbed on and got comfortable leaning towards Rainbows ear and whispering.

“Thanks for helping me Rainbow Dash.” The pegasus looked back and smiled.

“No problem kid. Now how about we get out of this place? We got some things to go over now don’t we?” Rainbow said. Giving the young filly a stern look. Scootaloo nodded shakily dreading what conversation was about to happen next. Dash stood back up and waved goodbye to Redheart a gesture she returned. Afterwards she walked to the door, medical supplies and injured filly in tow spreading her wings she took off into the approaching evening sky.

****

The two flew for a bit the afternoon sky now showing signs of evening approaching the sun setting on the horizon. Rainbow Dash looking back every now and then at the orange filly. Her eyes half closed but still showing signs of somewhat alertness. Rainbow Dash spoke.

“Okay Scootaloo, time to spill it. Why did I need to cover for you back there? Where are your parents? WHO are they? Where do you live?” The small filly drifting off now snapped her eyes open and started to get nervous.

“M-my parents.. I...,” Her eyes getting a bit misty. “I Don’t know..” A tear now running down them she felt bad she had to lie to her idol but it was the only choice the alternative... Rainbow Dash was shocked looking at Scootaloo with now questioning eyes.

‘Where has this filly been staying all this time? Who has been taking care of her?.... What am I going to do?’

“Okay Umm.. soo... Where have you been staying all this time?” The two now flying over Ponyville. Scootaloo hesitated for a second looking at the pegasus she turned her head away and said.

“The treehouse just outside Applejacks orchard.” Rainbows eyes went wide at this. All pride and arrogance flew right out the window in an instant. A sense of overwhelming worry came over the cyan mare.

“What!? How did you eat? Who took care of you? Did Applejack know this? Hay, Your friends did they even know?” Rainbow Dash herself starting to feel a bit guilty. Not ever pushing the fact Scootaloo was never see with her parents or ANYPONY for that matter.

“No.. I kept it a secret. You’re are the only pony I told this to..” She was looking away from the pegasus. Rainbow was blown away at what the orange filly had said. An unknown feeling crept into the pegasus.

“Well, untill I can get this sorted out, you are going to stay with me for the time being. Besides, I have to care for your wound and so all the better reason to stay with me right? Think of it as a sleepover. Maybe we will have some fun too.” Rainbow shifted her weight a bit and banked her wings, with a quick flap headed off to her cloud home floating above
Ponyville. Arriving there a few minutes later.

****

Scootaloo looked over to the pegasus’s home she had never seen it this close before. Rainbows were swirling and cascading down the sides of the house. Gothic like columns placed on the sides of the front door supporting the clouds above. Two windows could be seen on what looked like the second floor. What looked like a flower pot was set atop a column next to the windows. The pegasus landing on the front step by the door leaned down to allow the filly to slide off. She then opened the door and motioned for the filly to enter.

“Come on in. Welcome to my house! Don’t mind the mess, heh.. I am not much of a homemaker.” The two walked into what looked like the living room a couch by the wall some furniture strewn about making it feel wholesome. Rainbow led Scootaloo over to the couch gesturing for her to get on it.

“Okay kid, lay on your side for a sec. I want to check your wound to make sure the flight didn’t disturb your bandage.” Taking a second to examine it the bandage was still in perfect condition.

“Are you hungry Scootaloo? Because I am. We were in that hospital forever and I have not eaten since this morning.” Rainbows stomach let out a growl, the fillies shortly after.

“Ha! Looks like something else was speaking for you.” Rainbow said. She then poked the fillies tummy eliciting a giggle Scootaloo pushing the pegasus hoof away a second later.

“H-hey! D-don’t.. I’m ticklish there.” Scootaloo said and then gasped. She threw her hoof to her mouth. ‘Oops..’.

“Oh ho! Well, I guess I’ll have to remember that incase you try to pull another fast one on me again. Come on, lets go get something to eat.” Rainbow and Scootaloo making her way to the kitchen. The filly sat at the table while Rainbow was hovering around the cabinets looking for something to eat.

“Okay squirt, It seems I only got some apples left so looks like thats what we are going to have for dinner.” Rainbow grabbed the few remaining apples mentally reminding herself to go shopping later.

“Sounds good, I’m starved!” Said the filly rubbing her tummy and licking her lips. Rainbow Dash giving Scootaloo the larger portion of the apples she had remaining and watched as the filly wolfed them down.

“Wow kid, you looked like you were hungry when was the last time you ate?”

“Umm...” Scootaloo again getting nervous. “Yesterday, Rainbow Dash..”

“What!?” Rainbow’s eyes again going wide. “Scootaloo, just how long did you stay in that beat up treehouse? And how come nopony...myself included, ever noticed you there?”
Rainbow was again mentally beating herself up for not wondering why Scootaloo was never seen with a parental figure.

“Well, I would get up early before anypony managed to see me, and I just went to school from there. Nopony ever pushed the issue, so I never had to mention it until now of course. Sorry for keeping it from you Rainbow Dash.” Scootaloo looked away embarrassed. “I-I never meant to lie to you! It’s just the alternative...” Scootaloo trailed off.

“What alternative?” Rainbow asked. But the filly didn’t reply only looked away. “Squirt?” Rainbow felt uneasy that the filly had just clammed up and stopped talking a second later though Scootaloo responded.

“I-It’s nothing.. I’ll tell you later. Maybe..” Scootaloo now looking pretty tired Rainbow didn’t continue to press.

“You look pretty tired there kid, I think that medicine is really starting to kick in. Come on, you can sleep in my bed lets go.” Rainbow got up from the table as did Scootaloo, but being pretty tired she was wobbling somewhat so Rainbow carried her to the bedroom.

Scootaloo yawned, “T-thanks Rainbow I’m pretty tired” She then rested her head on the back of Dash’s neck. They made their way up the stairs to Rainbows bedroom. Dash walking to her bed and pulled the covers back, she then leaned up against the bed and helped Scootaloo slide off her back onto it then pulling the blankets back over her.

“Goodnight Scootaloo. See you in the morning.” Rainbow smiled and patted the filly on her head and turned to leave.

“Goodnight Rainbow Dash. Thanks for everything, I really appreciate this.” Rainbow looked back for a second and smiled nodding. She left and closed the door making her way to her couch downstairs. She flopped down on it slowly drifting off it sleep wondering what the next day would bring.

Orange Memories Part II

Chapter Four
Orange Memories
Part Two:
An Orange Haze and New Days

Written by
Enlistedpony & Secret_Shadows
Edited by avorin

The door flung open and out from the smoke and fire came a young stallion orderly carrying on his back a towel covering a newborn orange filly. “I need help over here!” Shouted the stallion as he rushed over to a group of fire ponies standing by an ambulance.

“Get this stallion some first aid!” Shouted a fire pony, some nearby paramedics rushing to the scene to administer first aid to the young stallion as he collapsed by their ambulance wagon, completely exhausted from his escape from the fire.

“Please! Take care of this foal first, I’m alright.” He said out of breath. The paramedics took the orange filly and placed her on a gurney. They removed the burnt and water soaked towel and wrapped the filly in a warm blanket then slipped a heart monitor on her forehoof. “Is she going to be ok?” Asked the stallion trying to catch his breath.

“”Yes Sir she’s stable. A little shaken up, but she’s alright. Does she have a name?”

“Scootaloo.” The stallion replied as paramedics wrapped the earth pony in a blanket and sat him on the wagon to check his vital signs.

“Is she your daughter Sir?” The paramedic asked. The stallion shook his head and looked back to the building.

“No. The stallion I got her from died just after he told me her name.” The paramedic looked at the fire then back to the filly lying on the gurney. He put a hoof to the stallions shoulder.

“What’s your name Sir?”

“Russell.”

“Well Russell, what you did was very brave. You should be proud of yourself.” He smiled a little but frowned when he looked at the filly resting.

“What’s gonna happen to her?” He got up and walked over to the orange filly and set a hoof down on the gurney. The paramedic looking over at the two.

“Well... Seeing as she’s uninjured,” The paramedic turned to look at the burning building, by now most of the second floor had collapsed. He let out a breath and turned to look at the filly again. “And unfortunately since it looks as if her parents have perished in the fire, she will be released to the local orphanage in Fillydelphia.” Russell looked down upset. He knew himself that this poor filly was now all alone, but he felt that he should at least see her off to her new home.

“If its not too much trouble, I would like to take her to the orphanage myself.” The paramedic held his hoof to his chin and though for a moment then he looked back to Russell.

“Why do you want to? If you don’t mind me asking.” Russell looked at filly resting on the gurney and smiled.

“I feel I owe it to her.” The paramedic looked at him confused.

“Owe it to her? I don’t understand.”

“Well.. The stallion she was with, who I believe was her father, had asked me to save her. That is why I feel I should at least see her off to the orphanage.” He said looking off to the fire. Just then a shout was heard from across the field and a doctor went running off to a fire pony carrying what looked to be an injured cyan filly. The paramedic got up when he heard the doctor yell for help.

“I got to go, but I am perfectly alright with you taking this foal to the orphanage. First things first. She has to be taken to the hospital and checked out. Once they give her the okay, you will have to talk to hospital about letting them release her into your care for the trip to the orphanage.” He started to make his way over to the doctor, but then he turned back for a second. “Why don’t you ride with her to the hospital? Then in the morning if she's checked out to be okay, and you get the ok to take her, you can then take the train in Ponyville to Fillydelphia.”

“Okay, I’ll do that. Thanks for the help.” The paramedic waved goodbye and made his way off to the doctor. Russell hopped on the wagon with the filly and after a few moments the ambulance started off towards the hospital just outside Ponyville arriving there an hour later.

****

The ambulance arrived at the emergency entrance of the hospital and its two passengers made their way inside. Russell walked up to the counter and hoofed the filly off to the awaiting doctors. “We’re coming from the Ponyville Medical fire.This filly was brought out from the building and her parents are missing. She may need medical attention.” The nurse on duty nodded and pressed a button on her counter. A few minutes later an orderly with a gurney came out from behind a door and took Scootaloo and placed her on it then took her into the back room.

“Is she your daughter Sir?” Asked the nurse. Russell shook his head.

“No. I am the pony that got her out of the building.” The nurse scribbled something down on a clipboard.

“I see.” She looked back up to him. “ You said her parents are missing and this filly, she looks to be a newborn.” Russell nodded in agreement. “Where did you find her?”

“With what I believe was her father.” The nurse looked at him confused.

“Wait.. You said her parents were missing, but now you say you found her with what you think was her father? I don’t understand.” Russell looked down.

“Well he died right as he told me her name, and I never found her mother, so I guess you can say their missing.” He said scuffing at the floor. The nurse’s ears fell back and she looked away.

“Oh.. I see... Poor filly.” She looked back to the earth pony standing at the counter. “Anyway, we will handle it from here. Thank you for dropping her off.” She went back to her clipboard and started scribbling something.

“Umm Ma’am?” The nurse looked up.

“Yes, what is it?”

“I want to take her to the orphanage in the morning if she checks out ok.” She looked at Russell with a questioning look raising an eyebrow.

“Why do you think we will be doing that?” She asked.

“Well the paramedic at the scene told me that once Scootaloo was released from the hospital, and seeing as her parents may very well have perished in the fire, she will be taken to the local orphanage in Fillydelphia.”

“You are correct Sir. Once Scootaloo is given a clean bill of health she will be dropped off at the orphanage.” She got up and walked to a file cabinet behind her and soon returned with some paper work. “We have no problem with you taking Scootaloo to the orphanage seeing as you are part of our hospital network, but I need you to fill out some release forms first before we can release Scootaloo so you can take her to the orphanage.” Russell nodded and began filling out the forms. After he finished the nurse took them stamped them then filed the papers back in the cabinet.

A orderly walked in from a door behind the counter and hoofed a clipboard to the nurse. Taking a moment to read it she then looked at Russell. “Scootaloo will be released in the morning. They want to keep her overnight to make sure she is ok.” She took notice of how tired the earth pony was looking. “Russell is it?” He nodded. “You look very tired.”

“Yeah... It’s been a long night.” The nurse smiled.

“Why don’t you go get yourself cleaned up? Then go get some sleep. I’ll see to it you get a room for the night.” She pressed a button and a moment later an orderly came from behind a door.

“Yes Ma’am?”

“Show this pony an empty room for the night will you?” The orderly nodded and held out a hoof.

“This way Sir.” Russell nodded and followed the orderly to a room just around the corner. “Here you go Russell, The shower is over there.” The orderly pointed to the bathroom. “Have a good nights rest. You look like you need it.” With that the orderly waved goodbye and left the room closing the door behind him. Russell let out a sigh.

“Pony what a night. I can’t wait to get some sleep. It’s gonna be a long day tomorrow.” He walked over to the bathroom and hopped into the shower, the warm water felt good after the long stressful night. He finished up and made his way to the bed and flopped down onto it quickly falling asleep. The next morning the nurse walked into Russells room and woke him up.

“Russell.. Time to get up.” The earth pony rolled over and opened his eyes.

“Hmmm? Oh.. Give me a few moments please.” He got up out of bed and stretched. “Is she ready to be released?” The nurse nodded and turned to leave.

“Yes. Scootaloo was given the okay to be released into your care. You can pick her up whenever you are ready to leave.”

“Okay, where is she at?”

“In the nursery. She was put there last night after the doctors had checked her out of the emergency room.” She was about to walk out, but stopped for a moment and turned back to look at the earth pony trying to wake up. “I wanted to ask you something.” Russell looked at the nurse wondering what she wanted to ask him.

“Yeah what is it?”

“Why are you doing this? I mean you don’t even know this filly. Sorry if I’m coming off rude or being nosey.” Russell waved a hoof to the nurse and shook his head.

“No don’t worry about it.” He went over and sat on the bed and crossed his forelegs. “I guess you can say I’m keeping a promise to somepony.”

“To her father?” She asked. Russell nodded.

“Yes thats it.” She looked at him confused.

“I don’t understand.” He let out a breath and got up off the bed.

“Well back when I first found her and her father on that stairwell landing he asked me to save her and then he passed away.” He shook off a shiver recalling the memory. “Anyway, I at least owe it to him to make sure his daughter is somewhere safe and with good ponies before I leave to return to my own life.” The nurse smiled.

“Thats very honorable of you Russell. I think her father would be happy to know somepony made sure his little filly was in good hoofs.”

“Thank you Ma’am.” He smiled and walked over to the door where she was standing. “Well, I better get going, the train in Ponyville will be leaving soon for Fillydelphia, and I don’t want to miss it.” The nurse and Russell made their way out of the room into the hallway leading to the nursery. After a few quiet moments of walking they arrived at the glass overlooking the foals in the room. “Where is she Ma’am?”

“Over there.” She pointed to a little orange ball of fur resting in a crib. “Lets go pick her up and get you two on your way shall we?” He nodded and the two made their way over to her crib.

“She sure is cute.” Russell said standing over her crib.

“Its a shame this filly has to go through this. She won’t even know who her parents really are.” The nurse said shedding a tear for the poor filly. Russell laid a hoof on her shoulder.

“Well at least she will have a chance to live her life, and she can thank her father for that.” The nurse nodded and smiled a bit.

“Give me a few minutes and I’ll get Scootaloo ready for the trip.” Russell nodded stepping aside as the nurse went off to get a foal carrier for him. She returned a few minutes later with a carrier and walked over to him. “Here we go Russell let me help you put this on.” She helped the earth pony put on the specially made side bag then went over to the filly resting in the crib. “Come on sweetie, Russell here is gonna take you on a little trip to your new home.” She gently picked up the small filly and placed her in the carrier. She then placed a blanket over her and strapped her into it securely. “Okay all set! Have a pleasant trip.” She waved goodbye as Russell walked out. “Don’t worry little one. The place he’s taking you has very good ponies. They will take good care of you.”

“Thanks Ma’am and Goodbye.” He waved goodbye then made his way out of the hospital heading towards the Ponyville train station.

****

“Hey, hey, little one we’re here.” He said as he walked up to the ticket counter of the train station. “Two tickets for the train to Fillydelphia please.” The pony behind the counter nodded and hoofed him the tickets and Russell made his way to the platform. “How are you doing back there Scootaloo?” The filly was sound asleep. Most likely tired from her first night and the tragic event in the hospital. He smiled and turned back to waiting for the train. A few moments later the train heading to Fillydelphia rolled into the station and came to a screeching halt. Scootaloo awoke to the sound and started to cry. “There there Scootaloo its only the train. Please calm down.” He rocked the filly back and forth for a bit and eventually she drifted back off back to sleep. Content that she had gone back to sleep, Russell stepped onto the train and made his way to a seat in the back of the car. After a few shouts from the train’s conductor the doors closed and the train slowly pulled out of the train station rolling on down the tracks to Fillydelphia.

“Well we’re on our way Scootaloo, and soon you’ll be at your new home. I hope you like it. The nurse told me that the ponies there are very nice.” Russell pulled the blanket back on the carrier to reveal the small face of the filly. “Pony you’re such a cute filly. I’m really sorry that you have to go through this, but at least you’ll have a home and good ponies to take care of you.” Scootaloo woke up and opened her eyes. She looked around then held up her hooves to Russell making a high pitched ‘Aaa’ sound. “You want to get out of that cramped carrier?” The filly continued to hold out her hooves continuing to talk in that adorable foal voice. “Well okay, but just for a little bit.” Russell unbuckled Scootaloo from her carrier and lifted her up. She yawned and stretched her forelegs. She lifted her head to try and look out the window, unable to do so she reached her forehooves out to the window making another high pitched noise. “Want to look out the window? Alright let me give you a hoof.”

Russell lifted Scootaloo to the window and rested her on the windowsill. She looked out the window at the moving world in awe. The colors, the things, it was all amazing to her. She tried to stand up by using the window to balance on but she slipped falling into Russell’s hooves. “You have to be careful, we wouldn’t want you to get hurt.” He said as he placed her down and resecured her in her carrier. “Well I think for now I’ll keep out little Daring Do safe in her carrier.” He laughed. “We don’t need you going on an adventure now do we?” He said ruffling her mane. She squirmed a bit and giggled. He smiled and returned to look out the window. As time passed on by though, Russell found himself getting increasingly tired watching the landscape. Scootaloo had long since fallen back asleep.

Russell spotted the conductor walking down the cabin he waved a hoof to signal him over. “How long till we arrive in Fillydelphia?” He asked.

“Another few hours Sir. Why don’t you get some sleep? I’ll come wake you up when the train arrives in Fillydelphia.”

“Well thank you.” Getting comfortable Russell took one last look at Scootaloo making sure she was alright. He then laid back and eventually drifted off to sleep himself.

****

Russell woke a few hours later to a hoof nudging his shoulder. “Wake up Sir. We have arrived in Fillydelphia.” The earth pony arched his back stretching his hooves into the air above of him and let out a deep yawn.

“Thanks.” He said returning to scratch his sides. He looked over to the young filly. She was still fast asleep in her carrier. Russell carefully slipped the carrier back on and got up then made his way to the exit. As he walked off the train he noticed a large sign in front of him.

“Welcome to Fillydelphia”

“Hey there Scootaloo, we’re almost to your new home.” He said walking to the train stations exit. Once he got out Russell stopped by a kiosk to get directions to the orphanage. Scanning over the map he spotted the place, but unfortunately it was on the other side of town. “Hayseed.” Russell murmured. He was rather upset he may have to walk all the way across town. That is until a carriage pulled up. The driver got down from his bench and walked up to the earth pony.

“Russell is it?” He asked.

“Yes thats me. Who are you?”

“I’m with the orphanage. Welcome to Fillydelphia.” He said extending a hoof and warm smile to Russell.

“How did you know I would be coming?” He wondered shaking the Unicorns hoof.

“The hospital contacted us and let us know you would be coming. By the way, my name is Vincent. Nice to meet you.” Russell smiled.

“Likewise. My name is Russell, and this adorable little filly is Scootaloo.” Russell turned to his side to let Vincent have a look at her.

“Oh such an adorable little thing now aren’t you.” He said looking upon her. “The hospital also let us know of her situation,” His happy face was replace with a sad one. “Such a terrible tragedy this foal had to go through.” He said a bit upset. “But, don’t you worry little one, we will take the utmost care of you, and make sure you are given the best home a filly could ever want.” Russell smiled at the comment. “Ready to go Russell? It’s a long walk across Fillydelphia, but with this wagon we will make it there in no time.”

“Yes I am ready let’s head on out.” Russell said and hopped into the wagon.

****

As The wagon made its way across Fillydelphia Russell sat in silence looking out the side watching the landscape give way to a large bustling city. After a while of looking at the sights he decided to strike up a conversation with Vincent.

“So Vincent.”

“Yeah what’s up Russell?”

“Tell me about the orphanage.”

“Okay what do you want to know?”

“Well how long have you ponies be around?”

“Not long. We started up about a year ago, so we don’t have many fillies or colts, but that gives us the ability to focus more attention on them individually.”

“Well thats good to hear.” He took a glance at the foal sleeping in the carrier. “This filly is gonna need a lot of attention.”

“Yeah she’s really had it rough hasn’t she? Even though she’s only been alive for a few days.”

“How many ponies work at the orphanage?” He asked returning to look at Vincent.”

“Well mainly its just me and another mare, but occasionally volunteers do come to help out.”

“What’s her name?”

“Star Dancer.”

“Oh thats a pretty name.”

“Pretty mare too.” He replied absentmindedly. Russell raised an eyebrow.

“Oh so you like her?” Vincent’s eyes went wide.

“What!? N-no! Well... Kinda, but...” He stammered. Russell chuckled.

“Heh.. It’s like that eh?” Vincent just rolled his eyes and waved a hoof at the earth pony.

“Back on topic.” he said with a huff. “Is there anything else you want to know?” Russell was trying to hold back a laugh.

“No thats all. Sounds like Scootaloo here will be happy here.”

“Okay then.” He said as the wagon pulled up to the entrance of the orphanage. “Come on in Russell lets get this filly into her new home.” The earth pony nodded and climbed out of the wagon. Vincent went up to the orphanage doors just as they flung open.

“Welcome back Vincent!” Said a unicorn mare as she walked over to him giving him a hug.

“Heh heh.. Hey there Star Dancer.” He said nervously looking away trying to hide his blush.

“You alright there Vincent?” Star Dancer asked. He chuckled a bit.

“Yeah I’m cool.” He said a bit nervously. Russell standing by the wagon couldn’t help but laugh at the timid unicorn. Vincent turned to look at him giving him a glare. “Anyway.. I bought the new filly the hospital in Ponyville sent to us.” The unicorn mare walked up interested to see her.

“Lemme see! Lemme see!” Was the excited response. Russell walked up and showed the filly to Star Dancer. She unbuckled her from her carrier and lifted her up with her magic. “Awww! Such a cute filly! What's her name?”

“Scootaloo Ma’am” The unicorn smiled.

“What a sweet name for such a adorable filly, but please don’t call me Ma’am it makes me sound so old!” She chuckled. “My name is Star Dancer.”

“Nice to meet you Star Dancer.”

“Likewise Russell. So, you want to see where this filly will be staying?”

“Sure” Russell replied. Star Dancer put Scootaloo in a stroller and beckoned Russell to follow her into the nursery. The three walked down a hall past some double doors into a room where the fillies and colts slep.

“Shhh please be quiet in here Russell its nap time for the foals.”

“No problem, but as the two walked down the room Russell noticed it was quite empty. “Umm where are all the foals? It seems pretty empty in here.”

“Well actually up until a week ago we had about five, but four of them got adopted so all thats left is this little colt here.” They stopped by a crib housing a small dark blue pegasus colt sleeping peacefully.

“Won’t Scootaloo feel a little but alone in here then?” He wondered.

“Well, we could put Scootaloo in with Aero, as long as you don’t object to that?” Star Dancer asked.

“No, I guess thats fine.” Russell looked down at Scootaloo and smiled.

Star Dancer used her magic to lift Scootaloo out of her stroller and lifted her to eye level.

“Hey Scootaloo, you’re going to share a crib with Aero for a while so you aren’t so lonley, be nice.” She said, fully knowing Scootaloo could not understand what she said. Scootaloo just looked at her and tilted her head making a high pitched noise.

She lowered Scootaloo down into the crib next to Aero. the young colt opened his eyes slowly and yawned. Scootaloo looked at Aero and shivered a bit. She tried to reach for the blanket that Aero had but he pulled it back. Scootaloo’s eyes started to water up.

Star Dancer was about to put another blanket in the crib for Scootaloo when Aero moved over to Scootaloo and put part of his blanket over her.

“Thats amazing, he never shares, something tells me they are going to be good friends.” Star Dancer said.

Scootaloo yawned and slowly drifted off to sleep soon followed by Aero.

“Bye Scootaloo, I hope you like your new home, the ponies here are going to take good care of you.” Russell whispered. Star Dancer walked up behind Russell

“Thank you for bringing her here Russell, we’ll take good care of this little filly.” She turned to look at the two foals sleeping together in the crib. A question popping into her mind. “Umm.. Russell?”

“Yes?”

“Is there anything you can tell me about her parents or something that I can talk to her about later when she’s older? Because you know she is going to ask.”

“I’m sorry theres not much to say.” He said looking a bit upset. “When I found her that night the only pony near her was an orange pegasus, but he was hurt pretty badly. He died right after he told me her name. I was not even able to get his. Plus the entire building where she was born in burned down in the fire. So I am pretty sure there is not even any records of her birth.” He thought for a moment. “Wait, I got something, it was given to me at the hospital.” He reached into his saddle bag and pulled out a small plush toy. “The fire pony that dropped it off said it must of been a present her mother was going to give to her.” He hoofed Star Dancer the plush toy she flipped it over and saw that it had “Scootaloo” stitched on the back of it.

“It’s cute.” She said looking at the toy.

“Sadly I think this is the only link she probably has to her past now.”

“Celestia thats terrible! So you’re saying she is most likely all alone in this world now?” The earth pony nodded. She let out a sigh and returned to watching the filly sleep. “Poor Scootaloo..” She felt a lot better for the fillies future when she noticed the little colt snuggling up against her trying to keep warm.

“Pony that colt there is really taking a liking to Scootaloo.” Russell noticed.

“Yea its odd you know.” Russell raised an eyebrow at the comment.

“Odd? Why do you say that?”

“Well Aero came to us a few weeks ago, it was raining quite heavily out. Almost all of the ponies here were asleep, I woke to a knock on the door. I went to see who it was and when I opened the door, there was nopony there but little Aero in a basket and wrapped in a tattered blanket. He had a note that said. ‘Please get him to a good home, we are unable to care for him, make sure he knows his parents love him very much.’ And that was that, I brought him in. I looked around the door one more time before closing it, I never found who dropped him off, and I’m afraid I never will.”

“So they abandoned him and left him?” Russell asked. She shook her head.

“It seems like they were unable to care for him, but in a sense, yes. I guess thats why he was always so timid and why he pulled away from Scootaloo at first.”

“Well judging from how both their pasts have left them I feel they could use one another right now.” She nodded in agreement.

“I think you’re right.” She said looking over to the clock. “Russell it’s getting late you’re gonna miss the train back to Ponyville.”

“Yeah I better get going I just wanted to get one last look at her before I left.” He walked back over to the crib one last time. “Goodbye Scootaloo,” He said a little misty eyed. “Take care of her Aero, she is gonna need somepony to look out for her.” He reached over to pat the filly on her head ruffling her mane a bit. She squirmed, but Aero kept close to her keeping her warm and she snuggled herself back into him returning to sleeping quietly. “Well I am going to be going now Star Dancer, thanks for letting me see her off.” She walked up to him and gave him a hug.

“No Russell thank you for saving this little filly from a terrible fate, and taking time out of your life to see to it her father's last wishes were carried out. I’m sure you have made him happy.” She said as he released him from the hug. He rubbed the back of his neck with a hoof and blushed.

“Heh, heh.. It was no problem.”

“Go talk to Vincent, I’m sure he’d be happy to take you back to the train station.“

“Thanks, I’ll do that. Well take care Star Dancer.” He looked over to the crib. “See you around, maybe in the future Scootaloo!” He waved goodbye to the unicorn and walked back out to the entrance. Vincent was out by wagon sitting on the steps next to it relaxing.

“Ready to go back Russell? The earth pony nodded.

“Yep all set and feeling good I might add.” Vincent’s ears perked up at the comment.

“Feeling good? About what?” He wondered.

“About the fact that you ponies are the some of the most wonderful caring ponies I have met. I am glad I choose to come here and meet you ponies, and I feel good knowing Scootaloo is in very good hoofs.” Vincent smiled at the comment.

“Why thank you Russell, and don’t worry none about Scootaloo. We try our best here to make sure every filly or colt has a happy childhood and hopefully a potential family to find a home with later on. Star Dancer would be happy to know our effort is rewarded with appreciation. Anyway, lets get you back to the train station before you miss it. Hop in!” He hopped up off the steps and got onto the wagon. Russell climbed into the back and soon the two were making their way back to the train station. The arrived just in time as the conductor was making his final boarding calls. “Well I guess this is goodbye Russell. Take care of yourself.”

“Thanks Vincent, you do the same okay?” The unicorn nodded.

“Umm Russell...” The earth pony turned back for a second.

“Yeah Vincent?”

“Did you want any updates on Scootaloo or want to come visit?” Russell stood there for a few minutes thinking about it.

“As much as I would love to be a part of her life. I have to decline.” Vincent looked at him confused.

“Decline? But why?”

“Not to sound rude or terrible here, but I really just wanted to at least keep the promise I made to her father and I did that, but I don’t want to become a part of this fillies life. I want her to grow up with a new start and not have to remember a terrible past. It gives me the shivers just having to think about it. I don’t want to put that burden on her. Please understand.” Vincent sat there for a moment taking in all of this. He smiled and nodded.

“I understand Russell. You have done more than enough to show me that you are not a terrible pony. I wish you the best and please accept my utmost gratitude for taking the time out of your life to see to it Scootaloo has a place to call home.”

“Thank you, but, before I go, if she ever asks about her parents, tell her,” He stopped to think for a moment. “Tell her that her father was a great pony, and he he did everything he could up to his very last breath to save her.”

“I will, farewell and good luck to you Russell.”

“And to you.” Russell boarded the train and after a few minutes the doors closed and it slowly rolled off making it’s way back to Ponyville.

****

It was a bright sunny day in Fillydelphia orphanage as fall was setting in. Outside in the playground two ponies were out playing a game of tag. Star Dancer was watching as Scootaloo and Aero ran around playing. Everything was going just fine. Aero and Scootaloo were playing a game of tag, Scootaloo was it and Aero was just fast enough to miss her tag.

He galloped behind a tree and sat down thinking he had lost Scootaloo. He peered around the tree to all of the sudden be pounced on by Scootaloo.

The two both burst into laughter.

Scootaloo then tried to speak for the first time. “T-t-twag!”

“Scootawoo! You tawked!” Aero said smiling.

Scootaloo smiled back as she got off of him.

“Twag!” She said happily as she started to run away from him.

“I gwess I am it!” Aero said as he gave chase to Scootaloo as she was galloping away, she looked behind her to see Aero in hot pursuit when she tripped over a branch. She fell onto the ground scraping her foreleg.

She tried to get up but she fell back down. It wasn’t a big injury, but she was too upset to stand.

Her eyes started to water up and she started to whimper.

Aero slowed down and sat down next to her. “Scootawoo? Whaths wong?”

She held up her left foreleg, it was scraped and bleeding.

“Scootawoo you’re huwt! I’ll go gewt Staw Danswer”

A few moments later Aero returned to Scootaloo with Star Dancer.

“She fell.” Aero said stating the obvious.

Star Dancer walked over and sat down next to Scootaloo. “What’s the matter sweetie?”

Scootaloo raised her foreleg and showed her scrape. She sniffled and wiped her snout with her other forehoof.

“Oh its ok Scootaloo, its just a scrape, luckily I have just the thing in my saddlebag.” She said as she levitated a small napkin out of her saddlebag. She wiped the cut off and then she retrieved a bandage from her bag. She gently placed it over the cut with her magic. She then wiped the tears from Scootaloo’s eyes with her forehoof. “There, all better.” She smiled.

Scootaloo returned the smile and stood up.

“Cowme on wets go finith tag Scootawoo!”

“Twag! Twag!” Scootaloo said smiling as the two continued their game.

A little while later Scootaloo and Aero had gotten bored with tag and were trying to climb onto the swings. Star Dancer noticed Aero standing under a swing, and then Scootaloo climbing on top of him trying to reach the swing. “Huwwy up Scootawoo, you weigh a wot!” Scootaloo jumped up to the swing, inadvertently jumping over it and landing flat on her belly. At the same time she jumped Aero fell over.

It was at this time that Star Dancer made her way over to see what was going on.

“What are you two doing?” She asked, she smiled a bit at their antics.

“We want to swing!” Aero said, “It’s not wowrking dat well” He said as he rubbed his head.

“Why don’t I help you with that.” Star Dancer said. Her horn lit up and both Scootaloo and Aero were lifted onto the swings.

“Wets see who can gewt Highwer!” Aero said smiling. Scootaloo smiled back.

Star Dancer used her magic to give both of them a starting push. Scootaloo and Aero both buzzing their wings in an effort to get higher.

“Highwer! tehehe, Twis is fun!” Aero said as he got his swing higher and higher.

Scootaloo’s swing was nearly just as high as Aero’s, of course a bit lower, but close enough.

“Im highwer!” Aero said. Both he and Scootaloo were giggling and laughing. Star Dancer could do nothing but smile at the adorable site. “Cowme on Scootawoo kweep up!” Scootaloo smiled at her friend and tried her best to buzz her wings to keep up with the young colt.

“Now now Aero, try to not get too high now we don’t want you to fall off.”

“Yea Aerwo!” Scootaloo said. The young colt turned to look at Scootaloo.

“Scootawoo, did you just?”

“Wat Aerwo?”

“Oh how cute she learned how to say her friends name. Way to go Scootaloo!” The young filly blushed bashfully. And for a moment lost her pace with Aero and he took the lead.

“I’m Fwying! I’m Fwying!” He shouted excitedly accidentally letting go and launching up into the air. “WOAH!” He shouted as he flailed his appendages wildly in the air feebly attempting to buzz his wings in a vain attempt to remain aloft. “Staw Danswer! I’m fallwing! Help me!” He screeched. He was now making a prompt beeline for the ground below, but just before he hit the ground he was enveloped in a white aura.

“Calm down Aero, Dancer has you.” She said as she slowly lowered him to the ground. Once he was on the ground Scootaloo got down off her swing and walked up to him.

“Aerwo?” She gave him a goofy look and started to laugh at him.

“Wat?” He wondered. Scootaloo pointed to his face which was covered in dirt. He wiped it with a hoof and rolled his eyes at Scootaloo crossing his forelegs and letting out a huff.

“Oh ha ha, verwy funny Scootawoo.” He said displeased. At that moment Vincent walked on to the playground.

“Good Morning Star Dancer what are you guys up to?”

“Oh giving Scootaloo and Aero some time to play before their nap. Trouble is these foals are a bottomless pit of energy. I can’t seem to tire them out.” Vincent held a hoof to his chin thinking of a way to do it.

“Ah ha! I have an idea.” He went over to the filly and colt mocking each other playfully. “Hey you two, how about a game of hide and seek?” Both of the foals had a look of excitement on their faces.

“Oh that souwnds wike fun!” Chirped Aero. Scootaloo simple bounced up and down smiling.

“Ok Aero, well maybe you can be it, can you count to ten?” Vincent asked.

“I thiwnk...two, eight, thwee, one, seveven...” He stopped and then extended his wing forward and then used his hoof to count his feathers. “Uh, nine, fwive, thirwtween-” At this point Vincent chucked and stopped him.

“Maybe I’ll be it. Yeah that sounds like a better idea.” Star Dancer could be heard laughing in the background. Vincent just shrugged and went over to a tree. “Okay I am gonna start. You two go hide! One, two, three...” As Vincent began his count to ten Aero took off running with Scootaloo hot on his tail.

“Over here Scootawoo. Mabee twis will work.” He said as the two hopped into the bushes, but a buzzing sound scared them out and back on the path. Vincent could be heard nearing ten now. “Oh no Scootawoo! He is gewtting cwose to ten! ten comes awfter twelve and tweve comes after six! and he is on six!” Scootaloo was starting to get tired, but she continued to chase after Aero in their quest to find a hiding place.

“Nine, ten, are you hidden yet?”

“No!” Aero shouted back.

“Aewo!” Scootaloo said, she bit his tail bringing him to a halt. She pointed at a small tree that had an opening at its base.

“Thats bwilliant Scootawoo!” He said, he chased after Scootaloo who was leading him now. Aero was now also getting tired from all the running around. They finally reached the tree and they got in it. The space inside the trunk was rather large, and obviously pony made and not natural. Aero and Scootaloo sat down inside the tree. Scootaloo yawned and leaned over onto Aero, who also yawned.

“Are they hidden yet?” Vincent asked.

“Yeah, they are hidden, just tell me if you can’t find them, I saw where they went.” Star Dancer said, just quiet enough so Scootaloo and Aero couldn’t hear her. Vincent nodded and made his way off into the playground. He walked over to a row of bushes recently disturbed and stuck his head through.

“Ah ha! Found you!” But there was nothing. “Horseapples.”

“Hey watch your mouth! Vincent there are foals around you know.” Snapped Star Dancer. Vincent turned away embarrassed.

“Sorry!” He waved her a hoof and returned to searching. He walked over to a small wall and searched around behind it only to not find the to hidden foals “Okay not here either.” He made his way back to the center of the playground and stopped when he heard what sounded like somepony sleeping nearby. He made his way over to the sound. It seemed to be emanating from a fake tree designed for foals to play in.

He smiled as he saw a purple tail sticking out of the opening in the tree. Vincent then walked over quietly to the tree and peeked in. He found Scootaloo and Aero asleep next to each other, Scootaloo was using Aero’s chest as a pillow and Aero was chewing on Scootaloo’s mane. Aero’s legs were kicking every so often followed by an ear twitch. Scootaloo was moving her head as if she was trying to cuddle up more into Aero’s chest.” Her ears were also twitching. Possibly dreaming of something. “Star Dancer, come look at this.” He whispered. Curious of what he was talking about she got up and made her way over to him.

“Aww they look soo.. Sweet!” She said as the two unicorns stood there watching the two sleep. “Well.. Lets get them back to their crib. I don’t want them out here sleeping and nopony watching them.” Vincent nodded and lifted the unconscious colt with his magic setting him gently into a stroller Dancer had brought out with her. Then he picked up the young filly and set her in the same stroller with her head resting back on Aeros chest.

“All set Star Dancer.” He said. She nodded and pushed the stroller back inside making her way to the nursery. Vincent headed off to the kitchen to start making dinner for the fillies and colts. Star Dancer made her way over to their crib and set them down in it then laid a blanket over them.

“See you two in a couple hours.” She said and walked out of the nursery closing the doors behind her. She decided to go check up on what Vincent was doing in the kitchen. She could smell the food being cooked. ‘MMmm... Sure smells good.’ She thought as she walked into the kitchen.

Aero and Scootaloo were sleeping in their crib. Aero rolled over stealing the entire blanket. Scootaloo was left without a blanket. She shivered and woke. Her eyes teared up a bit from being woken from such a peaceful nap. She looked over at Aero, who had the entire blanket.

“Aewo.” She said yawning.

“Aewo!” She said a bit louder.

Aero stirred but didn’t wake up. She shoved him.

“Huh?” Aero said, his eyes opened and he saw Scootaloo. She shivered.

“Whats wong Scootawoo?” Aero said, he then observed her shiver. She pointed to the blanket.

“But, this is my bwanket, where is yowrs?” Scootaloo pointed to the stroller that was still sitting next to the crib, just out of reach.

Aero sighed, his blanket was his only real possession, it matched his mane and coat colors.

“Aewo.” Scootaloo said again.

“But...its my-” He stopped, he watched her shiver again. He saw her eyes watering up.

She picked up her plush pegasus and hoofed it over to Aero. Aero looked down at the plush, and realised she was offering a sort of trade.

“Fine.” He said, accepting the trade. He picked up the plush and set it down next to him. He then unwrapped the blanket from around him and placed it over Scootaloo.

“Go bawk to Sweep.” Aero said as he tried to cuddle up in the warmth of the plush, being unsuccessful. He started to shiver. Scootaloo noticed him shivering after she had gotten comfortable.

“Aewo?” She said in a tone as if to ask, ‘what’s wrong’

He didn’t respond, he was too busy being cold.

Scootaloo stood up and walked over to Aero and put half of the blanket over him. He stopped shivering. “Thanks” He said. Soon they both drifted off to sleep cuddled in each others warmth.

Star Dancer entered the kitchen she saw Vincent standing by the stove stirring something in a pot.

“What’s for dinner?” She asked.

“Tomato soup with a touch of hay.” He said continuing to stir.

“Smells good! Need me to make anything?”

“Well could you set the table please?” She nodded

“Anything else?”

“Uh...” He thought for a moment. “Yes could you make the sandwiches please? It will let me get the soup ready before any of the foals wake up.”

“Okay no problem Vincent I’ll take care of it just finish up with the soup and you set the table I’ll make the sandwiches and get the crackers and drinks ready okay?”

“Okay sounds good.” He went back to stirring the soup meanwhile, Star Dancer got some bread from the cabinet and set it on the counter. Next she went to the fridge and pulled out some butter and cheese. She then levitated a skillet from a drawer and set it on the stove then went over to the bread and laid out some slices and put some butter on them.

“You done on the stove yet Vincent? I need to get started with the sandwiches.”

“Just hoof em to me I’ll make them go ahead and set up the table then go see if the foals are awake.”

“Ok you’re so stubborn sometimes.” She said giggling and gave him a playful shove then went over to set up the table for the foals lunch. “I’m all set up here, I’ll be right back. I’m going to go check on the foals.”

“Okay I should be finished by the time you get back.” He said as she walked out of the kitchen. She walked across the hall to the nursery. When she opened the door a cool draft blew by giving her a shiver.

“Oh no! I left a window open! I hope the foals are okay.” She rushed into the room and quickly shut the window, but it was too late. The temperature had fallen enough they could've gotten sick. She went over to the wall and flicked on the heater. “I’d better check on these foals to see if they’re ok.” She walked over to the crib containing Scootaloo and Aero. She looked down at the stroller seeing Scootaloo’s blanket in it.

‘Oh no! I hope she isn’t sick’ She thought to herself. She looked into the crib, she found Scootaloo and Aero completely wrapped up together in Aero’s blanket. Aero had wrapped himself around Scootaloo in a protective embrace and Scootaloo was curled into a small ball of orange surrounded by Aero. Her head was resting on Aero’s side and it was slightly covered by his wing.

“Wake up my little ponies, its time to eat dinner.” Star Dancer said.

Aero’s ear twitched but he stayed sleeping. Scootaloo however woke, she lifted her head up, inadvertently twisting Aero’s wing in a painful manner. Aero woke up and yelped.

“Scootawoo, my wing!” Aero said giving Scootaloo a very upset look.

Scootaloo’s ears fell and she looked down at the crib. “Aewo...” She said in a sad tone.

Aero ruffled his wing a bit then his face went from anger to forgiveness. “Sorry I yewd at you Scootawoo, you just weally huwrt my wing.”

Scootaloo’s ears perked up and she lifted her head. She ran over to Aero who was now standing and she pounced on him. “Aewo! Aewo!” She said playfully.

“Alright you two that’s enough, it’s time for dinner.” Star Dancer said as she lifted both of them up with her magic and placed them in the stroller. She also used her magic to put the blanket over them. Scootaloo leaned onto Aero’s side and yawned as she fell back to sleep on the ride to the dining room. As the three entered the hallway the smell of what was cooking in the kitchen pulled the filly from her sleep. She shot up and took a few sniffs in the air as her tummy rumbled at the smell.

“Somepony is hungry!” Star Dancer chimed. Aero looked over to the filly and laughed.

“Looks like ya twummy is talkin for ya Scootawoo.” He giggled, but a moment later Aero’s tummy started to rumble too. Scootaloo noticed this and reached over to poke him on his tummy. He gasped and lurched back when she touched him. She poked him again, this time though he was not able to hold back a giggle.

“Don’t do dat Scootawoo! Tehehe.. I’m tickawish!” The stroller stopped, and the two foals looked around for a moment wondering why they had stopped in the middle of the hall. A second later Star Dancer came around with a sly grin on her face.

“Did somepony say they were ticklish?” Aero blushed and looked away.

“No I didn’t!” His eyes went wide when Dancer looked at him with a mischievous smile. ‘Oh no..”

“Aww.. Why is little Aero being so bashful now?” She said. The colt just turned away twisting his hooves together.

“No weason.” He said bashfully.

“Oh is that so? Well.. I guess you don’t mind if I do this then.” She lifted her hoof and slowly lowered it to his tummy. Aero dropped his hooves to his sides and pushed on the inside of the stroller with both his hind and forelegs trying to push back farther into the stroller, but it was not helping. The hoof he had locked his eyes on was still making its way to its target. “Something wrong Aero?” She asked. He looked up at her with eyes now wide as her hoof finally came to rest on his tummy. He twitched.

“Tehehe... Noo...” He said very timidly. Scootaloo was holding her hooves to her face giggling.

“What was that Aero? I didn’t hear you.” She started to poke him gently on his tummy. His face started to contort and she could see him trying to hold back a smile.

“I...I’m tickawish” He whispered. She poked him again and he jerked letting out a squeak. “Eeep!”

“Oh somepony looks to be ticklish!” She happily said and started to tickle him.

“Tehehe... Hehehe...Stop! I’m Tickawish!” He said now giggling uncontrollably kicking his hind legs. Scootaloo herself was about to join in, but she let out a squeak when she too felt a hoof poking her tummy.

“Didn’t think I’d forget you did I?” Star Dancer said now taking her attention off Aero letting him calm down.

“Your turn now.” She chuckled tickling Scootaloo, but as she was doing this Vincent had popped out of the kitchen and noticed she was playing with foals and a evil grin crept onto his face. He crept up behind her and looked over her shoulder and winked at the two foals then whispered into her ear.

“What’s up babe.” And poked her on her flank. She squeaked and shot up into the air landing on her rump a second later. The two foals now giggling at her.

“VINCENT! What the hay!?”

“Language my dear Star Dancer, there are foals here you know.” He said with a large grin on his face. She blushed embarrassed then got up and stomped towards the kitchen rolling her eyes at him.

“Stallions...” She said and Vincent laughed. “Don’t forget to bring the foals in with you.” She said popping her head out from the kitchen doorway, a blush still clearly visible on her cheeks.

“Okay I’ll get em.” He said and grabbed the stroller with his magic and pushed the foals into the kitchen. “Come on Aero time to eat!” He gently lifted the young colt out of the stroller and set him in a high chair. Next he picked up the filly and set her in a high chair next to Aero.

“Wadda we gonna eat?” Asked Aero.

“Tomato soup with a bit of hay and crackers, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Sound good?” The colt smiled nodding.”

“Ohh yummy!” Star Dancer smiled at him and then hoofed him a sandwich cut it in half and poured him a small bowl of soup. “Heres your drink to.” She hoofed him a sippy cup and was about to pour some orange juice in it, but Aero swatted the cup away spilling it across the table. “Hey Aero what was that for?” She asked wiping the juice up with a towel.

Aero’s eyes were watering up a little bit. “I don wan Scootawoo to be tuwned into juice!”

Star Dancer giggled. “Oh Aero, why in Equestria would you think that?”

“B-becawse Scootawoo is owange...” He said rubbing his hooves together.

“Heh.. Don’t worry there Aero.” Vincent said. “We don’t make orange juice from orange fillies,” Aero let out a sigh of relief. “But didn’t you ever wonder why the kool aid we give you is blue?” Aero’s eyes shot open and he looked at his hoof noticing his fur was blue.

“WAT!?” His voice cracking when he said it. Vincent laughed and waved a hoof.

“Don’t worry I’m just teasing with you Aero.” But the young colt was still rather startled. “Aww come on now spo-” Vincent was cut off when a hoof smacked him in the back of the head.

“”Vincent! You’re gonna give the poor colt nightmares doing that!” She said rather upset. Vincent rubbed the back of his head with a hoof.

“Ow! Okay.. Sorry! I was just teasing.” He leaned over and put a hoof to the upset colt. “Don’t worry sport, we would never think of hurting you or Scootaloo. Never. And I promise you that.” Aero relaxed again and cracked a small smile.

“Oh.. Okay.” He said timidly.

“Well eat up young ones. Dinner is served.” Star Dancer said sitting down at the table. Aero picked up his sandwich and started to munch on it, Scootaloo though was having a hard time picking up her sandwich, flipping it around in her hooves trying to get a hold of it.

“Scootawoo? Having twobble? Let me help.” He reached over to help Scootaloo with sandwich, but unfortunately Scootaloo had dabbed it into her tomato soup and it was a bit soggy. Aero was getting a bit frustrated at the filly fighting him with the sandwich.

“Aewo!” She said displeased with him.

“Wat Scootawoo? I am onwy twying to hewp.” He reached over again, but this time Scootaloo had enough of him and tossed it at his face splattering it all over him.

“Twag!” She said.

“Scootaloo!” Star Dancer said “Look what you did! Now poor Aero is all dirty.”

“Looks a little cheesy to me.” Vincent laughed. Star Dancer gave Vincent a displeased look, but she still let out a chuckle.

“Hmph” Aero said as he spit tomato soup out of his mouth. He used his hoof to clean some of the tomato soup out of his eyes.

“Dat wasn’t vewy nice Scootawoo, I was onwy twying to hewp” Aero said.

Scootaloo stuck her tongue out at Aero. Aero started to get a bit angry and he picked up his sandwich and threw it, Scootaloo moved her head just in time and the sandwich hit Star Dancer square on in the face.

“Hey!” She said Vincent couldn’t help but bursting out laughing now. He threw a hoof to his face and pointed at Star Dancer.

“Oh Looks like theres a lot of cheesiness round here tonight.”

“Your right Vincent.” He looked at her with an eyebrow raised.

“Wha-” Was all he could say as a sandwich collided with his face.

“What comes around goes around Mr. Cheese.” Star Dancer laughed. Vincent wiped the sandwich off his face and laughed.

“Ha that was a good one!” The four laughing at each other that is until Scootaloo started banging on her chair happily splashing her soup all over her and Aero. “Oh jeez look at you two now.” Vincent said looking at them displeased.

“Don’t worry Vincent, I’ll get them cleaned up after their finished eating.”

“Okay well lets get them somewhat cleaned off so they can finish eating.” Star Dancer nodded and grabbed a towel with her magic and wiped the two foals faces clean so they could finish eating.

“Okay you two finish up no more messiness got it?” Aero nodded while Scootaloo just begun to eat again. After a little bit the two foals finished up their dinner and Star Dancer put them back in their stroller and headed off to the bathroom.

****

Star Dancer was making her way to the bathroom the two foals in their stroller laughing at each other because of the way they looked. “Okay you two calm down we are almost there.” Once she got the two to room she made her way over to the tub filling it with warm water. She then went back to a cabinet and opened it. Inside was various soaps and shampoos all of which were foal safe“Hmm what kind of soap to use.” She said looking over the different types soaps and shampoos. “Which one would you two like to have in your bath?” She picked up the bottles and lowered them so they could see them. Thankfully there were pictures on the bottles.

“Bubbles!” Aero said smiling.

“You want a bubble bath? what about you Scootaloo?” Scootaloo reached for the bottle of bubble soap saying “Twag! Twag!”

Star Dancer giggled a bit. “Alright, bubbles it is.” She used her magic to open the bottle and she started to pour it into the water. A few moments later the water started to bubble making a large layer of foam.

“Alright, who wants to go in first?”

Both Aero and Scootaloo lifted their forelegs up to show that they wanted to go first. Star Dancer giggled a bit then she used her magic to lift both Scootaloo and Aero up and then she put them in the bath.

Aero then raised his head and his snout starting moving as if he was smelling something.

“What’s wrong Aero?”

“The soap smells funny.”

Star Dancer looked at the soap and noticed it was scented, blueberry.

“Well Aero, it seems you are going to smell like a blueberry when you finish with your bath.” Star Dancer giggled a bit more at the irony.

Scootaloo then splashed the water at Aero, drenching his head.

“Scootawoo!” Aero said in protest.

Scootaloo giggled and so did Star Dancer.

“Alright, no more fighting, bath time.” Star Dancer said. She used her magic to pick up a small washcloth.

“Wings out.” She said. Both Scootaloo and Aero extended their wings. Star Dancer proceeded to use the washcloth to clean their wings making sure to get all of the tomato soup out.

Scootaloo giggled as her wings were being cleaned, it tickled her. Aero was a bit reluctant to let Star Dancer clean his wings after revealing he was ticklish, but he soon submitted and his wings were cleaned to.

“Hooves” Star Dancer said. Both Aero and Scootaloo lifted their forehooves up so they could be cleaned. As soon as Star Dancer’s washcloth came into contact with Aero’s hooves he started giggling and he fell backwards into the water.

“Aewo!” Scootaloo yelled as Aero disappeared below the soap. Star Dancer however was not worried, she knew what he was up to.

Scootaloo searched frantically for Aero.

Aero’s tail appeared above the water behind Scootaloo. All of the sudden Aero jumped out of the water and pounced on Scootaloo.

“Aewo!” was all Scootaloo managed to say before Aero had pinned her down.

“Aewo?” Scootaloo said, she was slightly frightened now.

Aero just started to giggle and he let her go.

“Alright you two, stop playing around and finish your bath.

Aero and Scootaloo returned to the middle of the tub to finish their bath. After a few more moments of scrubbing and cleaning they had gotten all of the Tomato soup out of their coats and mane. Then just as Star Dancer started to lift Scootaloo out Aero splashed water at her causing Star Dancer’s concentration to break, she dropped Scootaloo right on top of Aero.

Scootaloo buzzed her wings trying to stay up but she failed and fell right on Aero.

“Good catch Aero.” Star Dancer said, she used a towel to dry off her face.

“Aewo Aewo!” Scootaloo said cheerfully as she clapped her hooves together.

“Lets try this again.” Star Dancer said as she lifted both Aero and Scootaloo up at the same time and placed them on the floor. She then used her magic to bring over a towel for both of them and she proceeded to help them dry off.

After a few moments they were both dry. “There, all clean!” Star Dancer said. She placed them in their stroller and started to walk them back to their crib. “You two feeling better now?” The two nodded and Aero let out a yawn stretching his forelegs upward. “Getting sleepy huh?”

“Yeah I’m sweepy.” Aero said rubbing his eyes. He looked over to Scootaloo who was quietly sleeping letting out a whinny every now and then.

“Aww thats cute. Little Scootaloo is all tuckered out.” She smiled and pushed the two past the double doors into the nice warm nursery. By now Aero had drifted off to sleep when Star Dancer arrived at their crib.

‘Maybe if I am quiet enough I won’t wake them.’ Star Dancer lifted them both up with her magic and lowered them into their crib.

Aero stirred and opened his eyes and he stretched inadvertently bumping Scootaloo waking her up.

“Oh, I’m sorry my little ponies, I didn’t mean to wake you up, please go back to sleep.” Star Dancer said.

“I want a Stowy.” Aero said.

“Aewo Aewo!” Scootaloo said, agreeing with him.

“Ok, what story do you want to hear?” She went over to a bookshelf and started to name off the stories. “Little Red Ponyhood?” Aero shook his head.

“No.”

“Filly and Grettel?” Scootaloo put on a displeased face at this one. “Okay not that one.” She returned the book to the shelf. “A Pony in Time?” Aero shook his head his eyes now slowly closing he yawned. “Doctor Whooves?” She waited looking a the book Aero finally spoke.

“Uhh.” He said quietly. “No...” He whispered.

“You okay Aero?” She turned to look and found the two fast asleep. ‘Heh.. Tired them out just trying to find one.’ She thought. She walked up to the crib the two foals resting next to one another. She smile and laid a blanket over them. “Goodnight little ones.” She turned and made her way to the door, but just before she left she flipped on a little night light. “Sweet dreams.” She left and closed the door behind them leaving the two foals to rest for the night.

****

“Scootaloo! Wake up!” Aero shouted causing the filly to spring out of her bed.

“What the hay Aero?” Scootaloo said rubbing her head. “What’s so important to jar me out of bed this early?”

“Today is your birthday! Happy birthday!” He said excitedly. Scootaloo’s eyes popped open and she hopped out of the lower bunk bed

“Oh cool!” She was excited. Today was her sixth birthday and a party had been planned for the filly. She took off running to the door dragging Aero behind her.

“Hey! Take it easy Scootaloo” He said as he was being helplessly dragged down the hall.

“Oh hush up you. And keep up!” She snapped letting go of him Aero go balanced and took off following her, but he saw he was unable to keep up with the filly so he hopped into the air and started to flap his wings and shot forward catching up with the young filly.

“Hey! No fair!” Scootaloo complained. Aero laughed and shot forward into the main hall and landed next to Star Dancer. Around her were a few filly and colts, a recent addition to the orphanage.

“Happy birthday!” The ponies cheered as Scootaloo made her way out into the hall.

“Thanks you ponies.” She said and blushed bashfully. Vincent walked up to Scootaloo with a scooter with a bow wrapped around the handle bars.

“Happy Birthday Scootaloo, this is for you.” He hoofed her the scooter. “We all chipped in to get if for you.” Scootaloo jumped up and down happily accepting her new gift.

“Oh yes! Yes! Yes! Thank you! Thank you!” She ran over and hugged Vincent nearly knocking him off his hooves.

“Whoa! Easy there Scootaloo.” Scootaloo backed off from Vincent a little embarrassed.
She put a hoof to the back of her neck “Heh.. Sorry.” Vincent waved a hoof.

“No problem. Try out your scooter why don’tcha.”

“Okay” She got on her scooter and was about to take off riding when Aero came flying up to her and landed next to her.

“Hey Scootaloo, I have a present for you.” Aero said as he hoofed a small bag over to Scootaloo.

“What is it?” Scootaloo asked as she started to peer into the bag.

“Open it.” He said.

Scootaloo pulled out a small blanket, it was familiar to her.

“Is this what I think it is?” She asked.

“Yea, its your blanket you arrived in, you probably noticed it went missing a few days ago, its was pretty beat up, so I saved up my allowance and then had it fixed, I hope you like it...”

Scootaloo looked at her blanket, it was something that was sentimental to her. She walked over to Aero and gave him a hug. “Thanks, it means alot.”

Aero blushed and rubbed a hoof on the back of his head. “No problem Scootaloo.” He said.

“Come you two” Vincent said waving them on to come over and join them. “Can’t have a birthday party without the birthday filly.” Scootaloo nodded and her and Aero walked over to join the others in the party. The party went on for all of the day and into the night the sounds of laughter and songs being heard. Eventually all good things come to an end and finally the party came to a close. The other ponies going back to there rooms for the night tired out from partying all day. Scootaloo and Aero made their way back to their room tired from partying and playing games.

“Such a nice party I hope you liked it Scootaloo.”

“Oh yes I had a great time Aero, but now I am just so tired I just want to get some sleep.” She said wobbling tiredly back to her room. Aero seen that the filly might not make it back, he walked up beside her and leaned into keeping her balanced.

“Come on Scootaloo let me help you get to bed.” She smiled a tired smile.

“Thanks Aero.” She relaxed and let him help her back to her room and helped her into bed.

“Good night Scootaloo.” Aero said and he floated up to his bunk and laid down to get comfortable.”

“Hey Aero?”

“Yeah Scootaloo?”

“You ever wonder about if you’ll be adopted or not?”

“Sometimes, but I know I will be someday, we just haven’t found the right family yet.” Aero said, he pulled his blanket over him.

“Yeah but, you see all of the other fillies and colts come and go, I mean, its great for them, but, I’ve been here for six years, you’ve been here for seven! Don’t you ever think that maybe, maybe nopony wants us?”

Aero popped his head down from the top bunk so he was looking into the bottom bunk.

“Scootaloo, you will find the perfect family, don’t worry, but I think right now you should be more worried about getting some rest.” Aero said, he returned his head to his pillow and started to fall asleep.

“Ok, well, goodnight.”

“Night Scootaloo.”

****

As time went on days turned into weeks weeks into months the days falling off the calendar like the leaves off the autumn trees. Scootaloo found herself sitting on the steps day in and day out watching fillies and colts coming and going a new family made every day, but as time passed she found herself still each morning sitting on the same step watching the families pick their new filly or colt. She decided to keep a journal of the days events.

“Dear diary, today another filly got adopted. I sit and watch the fillies and colts come and go, I am starting to wonder If I will ever get adopted. Well, I have to go, Aero wants me to watch him practice flying some more, bye Diary ~Scootaloo”

A week passed by and still Scootaloo found herself sitting on the same step watching a new family walk on out. A colt this time.

“Goodbye Scootaloo.” The colt said walking away with his new family. “Don’t worry I know you will eventually find a family.” Scootaloo looked down and let out a sigh.

“Yeah... Eventually...” She got up and walked back inside the evening sky looming on the horizon.

“Dear Diary, Today a colt got adopted, another loving family, they looked at me and even asked me some questions, but, they didn’t pick me. I guess I’m just not right for them, Aero says to keep looking at the glass half full, but, its half empty for me. Its late, time for bed, Aero wants me to turn the light off, night. ~Scootaloo”

Another month gone by another turn down. Scootaloo again found herself watching another family walk out the door waving goodbye. She found herself walking down empty halls at night sometimes the sounds of laughter the sounds of her past replaying in her mind. Days gone bye new faces come one day, the next week they go, eventually she even stopped asking their names. Finding that it hurt more to try to remember the names of the ponies as they smiled with their happy faces as they left.

“Dear Diary, more of my friends have been adopted, Mist Chaser, Cloud Tumble, Sunshine Daisy, even Earl! Who adopts a pony named Earl?! I find myself silently crying myself to sleep at night, I try not to wake Aero up when I do, but when he does wake up I tell him its that nighttime stuffy snout thing. I don’t think I’ll ever be adopted. Star Dancer and Vince have been spending less time with me and Aero because so many new fillies and colts are coming in, I don’t think its there fault, but, I feel like I’m being forgotten. Well, its late here and I don’t want to wake Aero up with my crying, so goodnight Diary, see ya next time somepony gets adopted. ~Scootaloo

The next few weeks Scootaloo faced the same results. Day in day out new faces come in, old faces say goodbye it was really breaking her heart.

“Hey Scootaloo how are you doing?” Asked Aero coming up to sit next to her. She looked at him clearly she was unhappy her ears resting on her head, the smile he once so enjoyed seeing now gone replaced with a look of emptiness. Sadness. Regret. She returned to looking forward to the horizon the sun now resting on the mountains adding an orange glow to the slowly approaching evening sky. She turned back to look at him, but she didn’t want to talk. She simply got up and walked back inside. Her head hung low wings slumped to her sides. “Scootaloo?”

“Leave me alone Aero... I want to be alone.” She walked off to their bedroom and slammed the door behind her. Aero flinched when she did it.

“Dear Diary, so many ponies are being adopted, I should be happy, I’m in a loving home, I have friends that talk to me, they even think of me as some miracle foal...but I’m not happy, three families came and talked to me, not one of them wanted me, one of the stallions even said with me in the room that I wasn’t good enough for his family. I don’t understand what’s wrong with me. I try my best, I try to be on my best behavior, I try to stand up straight, keep my mane and tail in check, everything! I even talk properly, but no! Nopony wants me! I’m a horrible little filly that nopony would ever want! Aero says I’m overreacting, but he doesn’t know the half of it. I’m crying now as I write this, I can’t keep my composure, my life is horrible, I hate my real parents for putting me in this terrible place!” The rest of the page was ripped and covered in tears and the text was illegible written in a what seemed like a rant. At the bottom of the page read one small line. “I’m all alone, I have nopony. ~Scootaloo.”

She set the book down on her nightstand and rolled onto her side and cried herself to sleep. As the morning suns light shined in through her bedroom window Scootaloo woke to red eyes and a headache most likely brought upon by last nights episode. She got off her bed and made her way down to the kitchen, but stopped when she heard her name. She peeked into the kitchen and saw Star Dancer talking with a red unicorn stallion.

“Don’t even bother, you won’t want me anyway.” Scootaloo said before either of them got a chance to talk.

“Scootaloo, whats?” Star Dancer was cut off by the Unicorn Stallion.

“Scootaloo, why would you think that way? There is a family for everypony.” Scootaloo walked in her ears now perked up she was curious.

“You can try all you want, they all say that.” She said upset. “Then they take some other colt or filly.” She then sat down and crossed her forelegs and let out a huff. “So excuse me if I find your interest in me unappealing.”

“Scootaloo, what’s gotten into you?” Star Dancer asked. Scootaloo let it go. Months of pent up aggression and anger now coming out. She threw her hooves up in the air.

“Nopony ever wants me! They all come and say they are interested but they aren’t! You know its true Star Dancer, you see so many fillies and colts come and go, have any of them been here as long as I have? NO, they haven’t! You and Vincent have stopped spending time with me nearly all together and nopony else wants to spend a moment on me! When somepony tells you to your face that you aren’t worth their family, how do you think thats going to make you feel? So many years now I have waited for the perfect family, you, Vincent, even Aero keep telling me that they are out there, but the truth is they aren’t! So excuse me for feeling alone, Excuse me for not believing you really want me! Excuse me for being alive!” Scootaloo collapsed to the floor crying. “All I ever wanted was a family, and nopony wants to give me that.” She whispered to herself. The red stallion after watching what just unfolded cracked a sinister smile.

‘Oh this little runt is going to be perfect!’ He eased his evil smile back to a comforting one like a master of deception would. He walked up and put his hoof to her shoulder and she looked up eyes full of tears. “Calm down Scootaloo I know you feel hurt..like I really care.. but don’t worry someday you’ll find a home and a family.”

“R-really?” She said looking up at him wiping a tear from her cheek. He patted her on the head and ruffled her mane.

“Sure why I bet you’re closer than you think to finding a home..Yeah a home for worthless garbage... and you will be happy don’t you ever stop believing you got that?...Give up no one wants you’re worthless flank.” He smiled and helped the filly to her hooves then put a hoof to her chin and gently lifted it so she could look at his. What he saw in her eyes made him laugh inside. He saw despair, fear and loneliness. A cry for help and wanting to be accepted, wanting to be loved. Star Dancer came over and hugged the young filly.

“Oh poor Scootaloo. I’m so sorry I didn’t know. I was so tied up in trying to help the others find homes that I almost forgot about you and Aero. Can you ever forgive me?”

Scootaloo looked up at Star Dancer, she wanted to say yes. “I...I don’t know...no...”

“Scootaloo, I’m sorry, I really am.” Star Dancer said, a tear fell out of her eye.

“Hey Scootaloo why don’t we go for a walk? It would let you blow off some steam. You can bring your friend with you too.” Scootaloo looked back to Star Dancer.

“Is it ok if I go?” Star Dancer nodded still a little upset.

“Sure Scootaloo.” She looked to the stallion. “Just make sure her and Aero get back before dark okay?” He nodded.

“No problem Ma’am”

“Star Dancer if you please.” He let out a chuckle

‘Heh afraid of being called old. Somepony is scared of getting old.’ He smiled and waved a hoof as him and Scootaloo walked out into the main hallway. Star Dancer waved to Scootaloo as the door closed.

‘I’m soo sorry Scootaloo. Please forgive me.’ She turned to go sit back down, but as she turned Scootaloo came running through the door and grabbed her in a tight hug. No words just a simple heartfelt smile. She let go and walked back out the door. Star Dancer stood there a tear running down her cheek she smiled. ‘Thanks Scootaloo..’ Scootaloo feeling a bit better after that release was walking with a bit more energy in her step. Aero was sitting on the steps outside when the two walked out.

“Hey Aero want to come for a walk with me and...” She stopped for a moment. “What is your name Mr.?”

“Warrant.” She smiled.

“So, Where would you like to go Warrant?”

“Oh no where particular. I just wanted to ask you and Aero here some questions.” Scootaloo and Aero’s ears perked up at that comment.

“Really? Like what?”

“How about we go have a seat over there?” He pointed to a bench sitting under a tree.

“Okay” Scootaloo and Aero galloped off toward the bench and hopped up onto it Warrant smiled at them rubbing his hooves together.

“Yes yes.. these two will be perfect!” he then went over to the bench and sat down in between the two.

“So Warrant, what did you want to know?”

“Tell me about yourself Scootaloo.”

“Well I never knew my mommy and daddy, but the ponies at the orphanage here told me that they died, they weren't sure how though.” Warrant looked at her with a surprised look.

“Really? Thats terrible. So you been living here all your life?” She nodded.

“Yes, me and Aero here have been here for the longest out of all the ponies.” Aero nodded when she said that.

“What about you Aero?” He asked. Aero looked at him timidly.

“Well... I don't know about my parents. I was found on the step here during a storm, but I’ve been here ever since though.”

“Interesting...These two are perfect! No parents no past, they will never be missed!”

“What’s interesting?” Asked Scootaloo. Warrant broke from his thoughts and looked at her.

“Hmm? Oh.. Its nothing. Anyways, how much do you two really want a family to live with and call home?” Scootaloo put her hooves together and gave him the most wanting face she could.

“Oh so much Mr. Warrant you wouldn’t believe how I want a family.”

“And you Aero? The young colt spoke up this time.

“Oh I So to want to have a family.”

‘Heh... Perfect.’ He got up from the chair and spun around pulling the two into a hug. “Well guess what!” The two looked at him a smile slowly growing on their faces. “Me and my wife are really wanting to start a family, and what better way to start it then to have a brother and sister to care for.” Scootaloo and Aero looked at each other for a moment.

“Brother?”

“Sister?”

“That sounds so awesome!” The two said together. Warrant smiled

“Thats so cool! Oh I can’t wait for you two to meet my wife...Heh your future mom.” Scootaloo couldn’t contain herself and let out a happy squee.

“Thank you! Thank you! Warrant! Oh you don’t know how much this means to me!” She was so excited. Finally after the long years of being turned down somepony had accepted her. Her heart beating wildly she was so excited. Aero too was ever so happy somepony was wanting to call him son it made him feel so good his timidness was gone in a flash. And the best part was he could stay with his best friend, but no now they could call each other siblings! The two happily bounced around Warrant as he led them back to the orphanage.

“Star Dancer! Star Dancer!” Scootaloo shouted as she flew through the front doors racing to the kitchen.

“Why are you so excited Scootaloo?” She asked as the hyperactive filly came to a halt in front of her.

“Somepony wants me! I found a home!” Star Dancer scooped Scootaloo up in a hug.

“Oh thats so wonderful dear! Who is it?” Just then Warrant walked in.

“That would be me Star Dancer. Me and my wife are going to adopt Scootaloo and Aero.”

“Why that's so wonderful of you Warrant! You are and your wife are such nice ponies to take these two in. I know you will love their company.” Warrant put on a fake smile.

‘More than you think.’ He thought. “Well.. I’ll see you two tomorrow, I need to file the necessary paperwork then its off to your new home in Manehatten!” The two looked at each other.

“Oh wow Manehatten! I have never been there before!” Scootaloo said excited.

“Me either!” Aero threw in also clearly as excited as Scootaloo.

“Well get some sleep you two and pack your things, because tomorrow it's off to an adventure in Manehatten!” Warrant cheered holding up a hoof. The two jumped up in the air and cheered then ran off to their room. Star Dancer laughed at the two as they ran off.

“Why I have not see them two so happy like that for a long time. Thank you Warrant.” He smiled and looked back to her.

“No thank you Star Dancer. Me and my wife have wanted this for so long and now you have given us the chance to have a family.” Star Dancer looked away blushing.

“Well it was my pleasure. I hope you have a happy time with these two and if there's ever anything you need you’re always welcome to talk to us.” He nodded and walked out the door.

“I’ll see you all tomorrow, Have a good evening.” He waved goodbye and walked out.

“Dear Diary, IT HAPPENED! I finally got adopted! And thats not even the best part! Aero gets to come to! He gets to be my brother! Thats so cool! I’ve never been so happy! Maybe Aero was right, maybe the glass is half full, well goodnight Diary, tomorrow I go to my we go to our new home! ~Scootaloo”

She closed the book and hopped in her bed trying to calm down to get some sleep it was going to be a long day tomorrow.

****

“Scootaloo woke the next morning her outlook a thousand times better then has been in years. She was finally going to have a place to call home a family to love and be loved by. she hopped out of bed and climbed up the ladder to the second bunk and shook Aero to wake him.

“Aero! Wake up Aero! Today is the day!” Aero rolled over and pulled the blanket over his head.

“MMmm.. Five more minutes please.” He mumbled.

“No you get up now!” Scootaloo said and stripped the blanket off him startling him. He flopped out of bed and plopped on the ground.

“Ow! Jeez Scootaloo.” He moaned rubbing his bruised flank. “I’m up I’m up okay?” She laughed and hopped down to him.

“Your such a scaredy pony Aero.” She said giving him a shove. He waved a hoof and stood up.

“Lets get our things together Warrant will be here to pick us up soon.” Scootaloo nodded and grabbed her saddlebag and tossed her most prized possessions in it. She then unfolded her scooter and rode it out to the hall Aero following close behind. Once they got into the hall they saw Warrant hoofing Star Dancer some papers.

“Here is the adoption papers for you to sign Star Dancer.” He hoofed them over to her she studied them then looked up at him raising an eyebrow.

“These look odd.. I never seen adoption papers like these before.”

“Have you ever been to Manehatten Star Dancer?” She shook her head. “Well thats probably why. We run things different up there.”

“Yeah that makes sense different city and all.” She walked over to a table and lifted a quill out of a inkwell with her magic. “Give me a second to fill these out then I’ll release these two into your care.” She started scribbling on the paper. “Anndd finished. Well.. It's official.” She turned to the Scootaloo and Aero. “Congratulations! You two you're now brother and sister and this pony here is now part of your family.” Scootaloo let out another squee and leaped over and gave Aero a crushing bear hug.

“This is soo awesome! We are now brother and sister!” Aero let out a gasp.

“Can’t breath!” Scootaloo blushed and let go the two adults laughed at the them.

“Heh sorry!” She said rubbing a hoof to the back of her head.

“I’ll be waiting outside for you two in the wagon.” He turned to leave. “I’ll give you time to say your goodbyes.”

“Scootaloo, Aero, I am so happy for the two of you, I’m sorry it took this long, but I am very happy for you both, the past six years with you two have been really fun, don’t ever forget us ok?” Star Dancer looked at Scootaloo and Aero. They both looked so happy.

Aero nodded and gave Star Dancer a hug. Scootaloo walked over to Star Dancer and gave her a hug, she whispered in her ear “I forgive you.” Star Dancer smiled. Scootaloo let go and raced over to Aero.

“Ready?”

Aero nodded.

“Bye Star Dancer!” Scootaloo and Aero said in unison.

Star Dancer waved, she was crying, she was happy, tears of joy. Scootaloo and Aero walked out the door greeted by sunlight, Vincent, Warrant, a wagon and their new future. Vincent walked up to the two sat down and pulled them into a hug.

“Take care you two.” He looked over to Aero. “Take care of her sport she is gonna need you.”

“I..I’ll do my best.”

“Scootaloo.”

“Yes Vincent?”

“Take care of yourself. Don’t ever let your feeling get the best of you.” She looked down for a minute remembering the episode she had recently. “You are a strong filly and I can see you growing up to be a strong mare. Keep an eye on Aero. He’s a little bit on the shy side.” She nodded and Vincent let go of the two. “Good bye you two!” He waved as the two hopped into the wagon and waved their good byes.

“Bye Vincent! We’ll never forget you!” Scootaloo said

“Thanks for everything! I’ll always remember you ponies!” Aero said waving good bye. Slowly the wagon pulled off and made its way back into Fillydelphia the orphanage falling slowly falling out of sight until they could no longer see it. “Well Scootaloo we are on our way. I don’t know about you, but I am so excited! I can hardly wait to meet our new mom!”

“Oh you’ll love her don’t you worry.” Warrant said.

“How long till we get home Warrant?” Scootaloo asked.

“Oh about a day I would say. We need to get to the train station and board the train heading to Manehatten.” Scootaloo and Aero looked around at the landscape. Slowly it went from rolling hills and open fields to a bustling city. As they traveled through Fillydelphia the two were pointing and awing at the size of the building and the noises coming from its busy streets. Ponies going back and forth carts speeding down the streets heading to their destination as quickly as possible. Shops were set up along side the streets by various ponies trying to sell his or her ware to the passerby.

“Can we stop and look around Warrant?”

“Sorry Scootaloo, but if we did we would miss the train.”

“Oh okay.” she shrugged it off and continued to look out as the sights of the city. Soon though the three were entering the Fillydelphia train station.

“Ok you two let's go get off the wagon.” His voice a bit demanding, but the two so caught up in admiring the sites didn’t notice it and hopped off to follow him onto the train. the stopped briefly at the ticket counter and Warrant walked up to the booth. “Three please. The pony behind the counter nodded and hoofed him three tickets. Warrant ushered the two on to the train and showed them to their seats. By now it was getting late and the sun was setting. “Why don’t you two get some sleep you look tired.” They nodded. “I’ll wake you when we get to Manehatten.” The two got up on the seat and laid against each other Scootaloo rested her head on Aero’s shoulder as he leaned on a hoof looking out the window.

“I think I am gonna go to sleep Aero.” Scootaloo said softly slowly drifting off to sleep. Aero nodded and just kept looking out the window watching the train start to roll out of the station. A few hours went past and the two were fast asleep. Warrant walked by and glanced over to the sleeping pair.

“Sleep well you two you’re going to need it.” He walked back to the caboose and went over to sit at the bar. “Is there a messaging service here?” The bar pony nodded and waved over a dragon that was serving drinks.

“Yeah what is it?” The dragon replied rudely.

“I need you to send a message for me.”

“Five bits for Manehatten mail delivery. Ten if you want express service.” Warrant hoofed the dragon ten bits and the dragon pulled out a piece of parchment and a quill. “Your message?”

“I got our new workers today. I’ll be arriving at Manehatten train station tomorrow morning. Have a wagon waiting for me at the station. Until we arrive at the building, do not spook or scare the workers, I don’t want them running off. Thats it” the dragon finished scribbling the message and rolled up the scroll, a flash of red fire and the scroll was gone.

Your message will arrive within the next few minutes. Is that everything?” Warrant nodded. Afterwards the dragon walked off resuming what he had been doing previously. Warrant tapped on the counter and the pony behind the bar turned to look at him. Warrant pointed to a bottle and the pony behind the bar nodded and brought it down with his magic and poured Warrant a glass. He dropped a few bits on the counter and a moment later the pony behind the bar came by and whisked them away dropping them into the register.

“What a catch I have to say” He said and took a sip of his drink. He got up from the counter and went outside and sat down at a table staying there for the rest of the night.

****

The two young ponies woke in the morning Warrant was sitting in the booth next to them.

“Sleep good?” Scootaloo nodded and stood up to stretch. Aero woke a moment later raising his forelegs up above his head and let out a yawn afterwards he lowered them to scratch his sides. Scootaloo now finished her morning stretch hopped back up onto the seat.

“Did we arrive at Manehatten?” She asked Warrant nodded.

“Yup just pulled into the station lets go we got a busy day ahead.” Aero raised an eyebrow at the comment, but still trying to wake up he thought nothing of it and hopped off the seat and followed Warrant and Scootaloo off the train. When they disembarked Warrant held out a hoof showing the two a wagon off on the road waiting for them. “Okay you two hop in time's a wastin.” He helped the two into the wagon and climbed onto the front next pointing forward signaling the driver to go.

“Where do we live at Warrant?” Scootaloo asked.

“On the outskirts of town, its a nice little building sitting on a bluff overlooking the ocean I think you’ll like it.”

“That sounds great! I can’t wait to see our new home.”

“Don’t worry you’ll get to see it soon enough.” He smiled, but when he did Aero looked over and caught notice. He felt a shiver run down his spine. Something wasn’t right. He wanted to say something but was afraid so he nudged Scootaloo in her side.

“Hmm? What is it Aero?” Aero looked at her then up front, both Warrant and the driver were talking about something facing forward. He looked at Scootaloo and held out a hoof making a hush hush motion. He leaned over and whispered to her.

“Somethings not right Scootaloo.” She looked at him raising an eyebrow

“What do you mean?”

“Shhh! Keep it down.” He said softly motioning her to lower her voice.

“What is it Aero?” She asked again quietly.

“When Warrant looked back to us and smiled I felt a shiver go down my back. He looked at me weird like he was a totally different pony. It scared me.” Scootaloo chuckled.

“Oh don’t be such a scaredy pony you are overreacting nothings wrong.” Just then the driver spoke loud enough for the two to hear him.

“Where did you get these two workers at?” He asked Warrant

“Some rundown dump in Fillydelphia.” Warrant replied. The two in the back looking at them with jaws agape.

“What the Hay?” Scootaloo said. Aero could only sink back and let out a cry.

“Oh no..” He squeaked. Warrant looked back at the two.

“You say something Scootaloo?” She shook her head.

“N-no. I didn’t say anything.” He raised an eyebrow taking notice when she stammered.

“Hmmm.. Well okay. By the way we're almost there.” The two nodded.

“Okay sounds great.” Scootaloo said a bit of doubt in her voice. The driver looked over to Warrant.

“Boss I think they might of heard us.” Warrant nodded.

“Yeah I think you’re right. Lets pick up the pace. I can see the place up ahead.” The driver nodded and cracked his reins and the wagon sped up. With the increased speed they arrived at the steps to the building in a few moments Warrant and the driver hopped off.

“Ok you two, let's go time to meet the family.” Warrant said beckoning the two young ponies to get out of the wagon. They climbed out and followed him up to the front door. “Welcome to your new home, I hope you like it.” He swung the door open and what they saw truly terrified them. Fillies and colts running on treadmills spinning combines some sewing, some producing paper.

“What the hay is this?” Scootaloo said shocked. Warrant pushed her and Aero inside and closed the door behind them locking it.

“Your new job.”

“New job? What!? But.. but I thought you were taking us home to meet your wife and and start a family, and and, show us your house, and, and, but, it was suppose to be perfect! But, but...its...” She trailed off, her breathing getting heavier. “You, l-lied, you, you were going to...but, but, it...”

“Why would I want a worthless foal like you being part of my family?” He said. “I mean you can’t even hold your composure, breaking down and crying like a little foal you should be ashamed of yourself!” He pushed her off. “Now get over there and get to work! I own you now and theres nothing you can do about it!” He nodded at the driver who picked up Aero and Scootaloo and dragged them kicking and screaming off to a treadmill.

“Shut up and get to work and you will not be hurt got it?” Aero scrunched down and started to run on the treadmill turning the wheel on the loom. He walked off with Scootaloo and dropped her on a treadmill connected to a circular grinding wheel. “Run you good for nothing welp and maybe you will be fed tonight!” He said with the crack of a whip. It impacted Scootaloo’s side and she started to run. Tears were flowing out of her eyes. Her perfect vision of a family was gone shattered into a million pieces. She ran on the wheel until her legs could run no more and she collapsed. A stallion walking up to her.

“Okay you ran enough tonight time to get some sleep you will need it for tomorrow.” He picked her up and laid her on a cart and walked over to the treadmill Aero had been running on and still was. “You can stop now it's bed time.” Aero stopped and wobbled over to the cart and flopped down onto it. “I Give you some props there. You last alot longer than that good for nothing filly.” He let out a snort. “ Pfft. She could not make it to quitting time.” He then pulled the two to their room and dumped them on their beds. Scootaloo rolled over her legs sore from running for hours. She rolled over and grabbed her bag and pulled out her journal.

“Dear Diary, today...today my life was shattered before my eyes, my dreams crushed, my vision ruined. I was dumped into a world of pain and suffering, and I was told I was worthless. The glass isn’t even half empty, it is empty at this point. I’m sorry I ever thought badly of Star Dancer and Vincent, that was a real family. I want to go home... ~Scootaloo”

The next morning Scootaloo and Aero were herded into the cafeteria and they were hoofed a tray and told to stand in line. As they walked down the line food was tossed onto their trays. Simple stuff. “Gee this looks tasty.” Aero mumbled just then a hoof smacked him on the back of the head.

“Shut up you, you're not allowed to talk. Now go sit down.” Aero nodded and hurried off to a table and sat down across from him was Scootaloo, her color gone. He looked into her eyes and he saw nothing... No hope, no fear, just nothing but emptiness.

“You okay Scootaloo?” He whispered making sure he was not heard. She didn’t reply just lifted up her head and looked at him. A shiver went down his spine when she looked at him. ‘Oh Scootaloo what have they done to you..’ He reached over and put a hoof to her shoulder. “It’s alright Scootaloo, as long as we’re together we can make it through anything.” Again another hoof smacked him on the back of his head.

“What did I tell you? SHUT UP!” Aero rubbed the back of his head and looked at Scootaloo.. She was gone, walking out to the work room. Aero got up and made his way over to the same place, another hard days work looming ahead. He hopped on his treadmill and went to work turning the loom. An hour later he was given a short break to rest up. He looked over to Scootaloo. It was frightening. She was running her head hung low, wings dropping, even her tail was hanging lifeless getting stuck under her hind hoofs as she mindlessly ran.

‘Oh Scootaloo please don’t give up...’ The bell rung and he got up and continued to run. A couple hours later the ending bell rang letting the fillies and colts know it was bedtime. Aero got off and walked over to the sleeping quarters and hopped up on his bed. He looked over to Scootaloo, she was laying on her side scribbling something in a book.

“Dear Diary, day two. I feel my body aching. My stomach hurts, I’m hungry. I’m Tired. The beds here aren’t even beds, they are metal frames with fabric tied to it. I’m cold, there are blankets but they don’t keep me warm, and there are no pillows. They called me even more useless things today. I don’t know what I ever did to deserve this. I would rather be stuck in the orphanage for the rest of my life than here. I’m sorry Star Dancer, I never should have been mad at you, I want to come home. ~Scootaloo”

Aero walked up to the food line this morning and received the same ‘food’ given to him yesterday, but remembering his mistake from yesterday morning he remained quiet collected his food and headed over to the table Scootaloo was sitting at. He looked all around making sure none of the guards were within earshot he got up and walked over and sat down next to Scootaloo. She was just fiddling with her food. He scooched up next to her hoping she would respond, she didn’t.

“Hey Scootaloo, are you alright? Please talk to me. Its safe to talk as long as you keep it down. The guards are not around.” No response. She continued to just push her food around on her tray. Aero looked around again making sure it was safe. He reached his forelegs out and hugged Scootaloo. She leaned closer to him and rested her head on him. Silently tears started to come out of her eyes.

“Thank you.” She whispered.

“Hope you feel better Scootaloo. Remember, I am always here for you. Whenever you need it. You only have to ask.” She nodded and let out a breath. A feeling of security went through the filly as the young colt held her, a small smile appearing on her face. “Come on, the guards will be coming back lets get to work. I’ll see you after the day is over.” She nodded and Aero got down. The two made their way to the workroom as the morning bell sounded. As the day dragged on Scootaloo kept up her pace running on the treadmill occasionally shooting a glance at Aero doing the same. She smiled, thankful of what the young colt had did for her this morning.

‘Thank you Aero, I feel so much better knowing you’re here with me.’ After a long day of running the factory the ending bell rang. Scootaloo hopped off her treadmill and walked over to Aero who was just climbing out of his. She walked up next to him and he looked at her with a questioning look raising an eyebrow.

“What?” He said quietly. She smiled.

“Nothing.” She gave him a bump with her hip and walked off to the sleeping quarters. Aero rubbed the back of his head wondering what that was for. He shrugged and walked off to the sleeping quarters himself and flopped into bed quickly drifting off to sleep.

“Dear Diary, today was better, but...it was still terrible. Aero comforted me this morning and it felt good to know he was enduring this with me. But its still a lost cause. I am grateful that Aero is supporting me, maybe tomorrow will be better. ~Scootaloo”

As the days passed Scootaloo and Aero got into a regular routine. Get up, go to eat, then off to work and then go to bed. After a while it was almost as if they were simply acting autonomously. The next few months the two simply found themselves as part of a cog slowly churning along, but thanks to Aero’s support, Scootaloo was able to endure, but the constant routine and heartless insults were eating at her strenght. It was a constant battle for the filly to fight depression, to fight despair.

One day as Scootaloo was grinding away running on her treadmill when she overheard a guard shouting. “You never seem to want to listen to me Aero. What is your problem? When master speaks, you obey. Do you understand?” Aero Just nodded and kept up his pace. The guard though he was mocking him. “Are you mocking me you worthless welp?” Aero now frightened stopped running and shook his head.

“N-no Sir!” He received a kick to the gut for that. “What were you told about talking welp? Next time nod or shake your head. Dogs do not speak, they only obey when commanded. Now get back up and start running!” Aero tried but the kick he had just received had really hurt him it had bruised some of his ribs. He tried to stand again but fell down crying.

“I’m sorry! It hurts so muc-” *Wack!* A hoof colliding with the side of his head sent him flying into a corner. “Please Stop! P-Please S-Stop! P-Please! It Hurts! S-Stop!” Aero was pleading. He couldn’t take much more of this. “You can beg all you want, but it will get you nowhere! You’re just as useless as that orange filly!” He raised a hoof about to strike the poor colt, but just then a hoof collided with the guards face.

“Leave him alone!” Shouted Scootaloo jumping in front of Aero standing in a aggressive stance. She sneered and flared her wings. The guard stood back up and wiped the blood from his mouth with a hoof.

“Why you little! I should kill you now!” He ran over and punched the filly full force right in the face sending her flying across the room slamming her up against a treadmill. He walked up to the cowering filly and was about to finish the job, but just then the guard was surrounded in a red aura and thrown back into a wall.

“Stop!” Commanded Warrant entering the room. “You will NOT lay another hoof on the workers again. Do you understand me! I am getting tired of going to orphanages finding new workers because you lose your temper and wind up killing them.” Warrant walked over to Scootaloo and looked over her inspecting her. She was not terrible injured only a black eye was seen. “Get up Scootaloo now.” She nodded and got to her hooves. “Get back on your treadmill theres still a few hours of work to be done.” She walked back over to the treadmill and started running, limping as she ran. Warrant next walked over to Aero. Clearly the young colt was injured, but after an inspection from Warrant , he concluded the he was only suffering from a few bruised ribs. “Get up Aero, you’re not badly injured I’ve seen worse.” Aero whimpered. “If you don’t get up and finish you will not be fed tomorrow and will have to work even longer to make up for time lost today.”

Aero grit his teeth and forced himself to his hooves. His bruised ribs causing him severe discomfort every time he took in a breath. “Now go back to work Aero, you have a few hours left to go.” Aero hobbled over to his treadmill and hopped on. The next few hours were excruciating. The pain he had to endure while running was causing tears to form, but he grit his teeth, steeled himself, and continued until the ending bell rang. ‘Thank Celestia.’ He thought Scootaloo walked over to Aero. He was having trouble walking so she leaned up against him and helped him to the sleeping quarters.

“Lie down Aero, you need your rest.” She put her hooves to his sides and gently felt around. The colt winced when she found a bruised rib. “Okay I don’t feel anything broken so you’re good. It just seems like a few of them got bruised. Aero let out a sigh of relief, but winced when he did. Scootaloo chuckled. “Silly pony. You should've known better.” She patted him on the head and got down to go lay on her bed.

“Thank you Scootaloo..” Aero replied quietly. She turned around for a moment. Then she simply smiled and walked over to her bed and hopped on it.

“Dear Diary, today Aero was beaten, and I tried to defend him, getting beaten myself. It was terrible, I hate this place, Knowing Aero is here with me is all that’s keeping me going. Maybe someday we will do something about this, I only hope somepony does something, I miss home. ~Scootaloo”

The next day at breakfast Scootaloo and Aero were sitting at the table discussing something.
“Okay Aero. I think we need to escape.” Aero almost choked on his food at this comment.

“What? H-how? I mean do you even have any idea how we are going to do it?”

“I think you two have seen just about enough of each other.” Warrant said walking into the cafeteria. “I think its time we split you two up.” Warrant nodded to a guard and he picked up Aero and carried him off.

“Where are you taking him!” She demanded.

“He is being punished for being disobedient. A few months of solitary confinement should be sufficient, but what concern is this of yours? You are but a peasant needed to turn a wheel.” He turned to walk away. “Get your useless flank back to work I don’t want to hear anymore out of you.” Scootaloo was now alone. Aero was carried off to another part of the building and she didn’t know if she was ever going to see him again now. She tossed away her food having lost her appetite and made her way out to her treadmill and began running, she felt terrible now. Several tiring hours passed and the ending bell rang. Scootaloo got off her treadmill and walked over to the sleeping quarters. And flopped down onto her bed she looked over to Aero’s cot, but it was empty.

“Dear Diary, Aero was taken and punished and its all my fault! I should never have thought about escaping. Its all my fault and I never should have said anything! Aero is probably hurt and sad and its all my fault! I wish he would come back, or give me some sign that he was alright. I’m so sorry Aero, I’m sorry. ~Scootaloo” The page was covered in tears. Slowly after finishing the entry, Scootaloo cried herself to sleep.

The next few months were terrible for the filly; she was alone her friend, her guiding light was extinguished only a dark path now lay before her. She had stopped eating, her strength was leaving her, but she didn’t care. She only went on running on that dreadful mill watching as it slowly churned, the sounds of grinding could only be heard. She was in despair, looking for a way out.. The ending bell rang and for her it felt like the final time she would hear it. She slumped off the mechanical monster and walked over to the sleeping quarters and stood by her bed. She turned to face the adjacent bed one which only a few months ago held the only thing giving her hope, and now like her it was empty.

“Dear Diary, I’m sorry Aero, I’m so sorry, I can’t do this. The past few months have been terrible, I can’t do it anymore, I’m so sorry, please forgive me, if you ever find this, know I’m so sorry I ever dragged you into this, I’m sorry I really am, do me a favor and survive ok? Get out of this place, I just can’t do it anymore, I’m going now, and, and I’m not coming back...don’t come look for me, you won’t find me...I’ll always be looking out for you. I’m sorry, I’ll see you soon ok? Bye, I’m sorry, writing for the last time. ~Scootaloo” The pages were covered in tears. She set the diary down on her bed and reached under her bed. A shard of glass. She pulled it out and held it. She let her tears flow out as she prepared herself. Then the door opened.

“Scootaloo?”

Scootaloo instantly dropped the shard of glass shattering it into several thousand pieces. That voice, it couldn’t be. She turned around and saw the blue colt standing in the doorway. She ran over to him and pounced on him pinning him down in the biggest hug she could possibly give.

“I’m so sorry Aero! I never should have said anything! Please forgive me! Please! I missed you so much!” She said.

“C-can’t b-breath”

“Heh, sorry.” Scootaloo let go of Aero and he stood up. “How, why?”

“They let me come back, it was awful, um Scootaloo, why were you holding a sharp piece of glass and pointing it at your chest?” Aero asked, he had a concerned look on his face.

“Hmm, what are you talking about, I never had any glass...you must be mistaken, I uh...” Scootaloo had closed her eyes when she started tryign to explain herself, only to open them to find Aero standing at her bed, looking down at an open journal.

“Scootaloo...” Was all Aero could say before she pounced on him again giving him another hug, this one to keep him from reading her journal.

“Don’t ever leave me again!”

“I won’t...”

Scootaloo and Aero then proceeded to go to bed, they laid together that night. Keeping each other safe in the others embrace.

A day eventually passed and they made their escape that night.

Rainbow Dash was just blown away at the story revealed to her. This filly had been through so much. “Oh my Scootaloo, I...I don’t know what to say..” She was at a loss for words this was such a huge thing to take in.

“It’s okay Dash, take your time.”

“Well you and this Aero colt made your escape what happened next?”

“Well after we tried our escape, it kind of went bad. I fell off the rope I made from blankets after a guard tried to pull me back in. Aero tried his best to keep me from falling, but both of us were too heavy and we fell into the ocean. I woke up the next morning and found him alive on the beach. After that we tried to get back to the orphanage in Fillydelphia.”

“Wait. Didn’t those horrible ponies from that terrible place try to look for you?”

“Well I think they figured we washed out to sea and well they probably figured us for dead. Not like they cared about us anyway.”

“Yeah I kinda got that from how you described them. Umm we should really go to Twilight about that Scootaloo. The princess needs to be informed about such a terrible place.

“I agree, but there’s one problem.”

“What is it Scootaloo?”

“Well.. I kinda forget where it was.”

“Forgot? How?”

“I’ll tell you that now.”

“Okay well lets hear it.”

Scootaloo and Aero were standing on the edge of the Everfree forest. They were trying to find their way back to the orphanage in Fillydelphia, but had gotten horribly lost and winded up on the bank of a river in the forest.

“Well what do we do now Scootaloo?” Aero said looking at the river. “The current looks pretty fast, I doubt we could swim it.”

“Well maybe we could walk up the river some and look for a crossing somewhere?”

“We already spent most of the day wandering around this forest Scootaloo. I don’t want to keep searching after dark.”

“Yeah I guess you're right. Well let's sleep here its nice and open and at first light we can go look again alright?” Aero nodded and laid down on the soft grass. He pulled a couple apples out of his saddle bag.

“Here you go.” He hoofed her an apple and she tore into it. She was very hungry from not eating all day while they had wandered through the forest.

“Thanks Aero.” He smiled.

“No problem Scootaloo see you in the morning.” He fidgeted around to get comfy, and after a few minutes drifted off to sleep. Scootaloo took the chance to write one last journal entry before she had gone to sleep herself.

“Dear Diary, today was better, we are looking for the orphanage, we still haven’t found it yet. I am starting to like Aero, at first I thought I was just happy he was with me but, I think I might be starting to like him as more than a friend. I’m glad he is here with me. I don’t know what I’d do without him, I really like him. Well goodnight Diary, I have a busy day tomorrow, I can’t wait to wake up and see Aero again! Goodnight. ~Scootaloo”

Scootaloo woke the next morning to a hoof frantically pushing her shoulder.

“Wake up Scootaloo! We have to get out of here!” She rolled over looked at Aero rubbing her eyes.

“What is it Aero? What’s got you so scared?”

“Timberwolves! They are at the treeline watching us! We have to get out of here!” Scootaloo shot up when she heard a howl coming from the trees. She saw three sets of yellow eyes watching from the bushes.

“Hayseed! Run Aero!” The two took off running down the river bank as the three wolves hopped out of the bushes and took off after the two ponies.

“There going to get us Scootaloo! We can’t outrun them! We need to try to cross the river.”

Scootaloo looked at the river trying to swallow a lump in her throat. “Okay lets try.” She said nervously. Aero was the first one to enter the river the water was cold slowly numbing his muscles as he made his way across.

“C-c-come on in S-Scootal-loo h-hurry u-up!” He said teeth chattering the water was so cold he was slowly losing feeling.

“Aero are you alright?” Scootaloo asked concerned for him.

“F-fine j-just h-hurry u-up.” She slowly made her way into the river the water was cold it was quickly sapping her strength.

“S-so c-c-cold-d!” She stammered slowly making her way across. By now the wolves had reached the river bank but did not attempt to enter the frigid waters. There was no turning back now for the two ponies. Aero was about half way across the river when it happened. Whether it was his lack of strength from the freezing waters or something else it didn’t matter he lost his balance and slipped falling beneath the surface.

“Aero!” Scootaloo shouted. She forced her way over to his last location and frantically started to look around yelling for him, but there was nothing. A few moments later though the water had claimed its next victim as the young filly was washed downstream flailing her limbs trying to remain afloat. She was almost able to make it to the other side, but just then a her head dipped under the water and she hit it on a rock knocking her unconscious. The last thing she saw before she blacked out was what looked to be the body of a serpent snaking its way downstream holding something blue in its claws.

“And thats why I can’t seem to remember a lot of the details. I think when I hit my head It like put a lot of my past memories into a haze so its rather cloudy, but I would never forget a face if I saw it in pony.”

“Well Scootaloo I have to say thats quite a story you have there.”

“Yeah, but I feel so much better telling it finally. Even more that I told it to you.” Dash smiled and ruffled her mane.

“Get some sleep now Scootaloo, we got a busy day tomorrow.”

“Oh? What's going on?” Rainbow simply tightened her wing wrapped around the filly and made herself comfortable.

“Its a surprise. You’ll see tomorrow. Now get some sleep it’s been a long night.”

****

Scootaloo woke the next morning feeling like a tremendous weight had been lifted off her chest. She was happy and she had a surprise coming to her from the one and only Rainbow Dash. She slid out from Dash’s wing and hopped on top of her shaking her to wake up.

“Rise and shine Rainbow Dash! Time to get up!” Rainbow stirred rolling over to look at the filly now resting on her belly.

“Too early! Go back to sleep Scootaloo!” Dash mumbled throwing her hooves over her eyes.

“Come on Dash wake up!” She tried again, but Rainbow didn't respond. She was obviously ignoring the filly. Scootaloo sat there for second upset, but then noticed she was sitting on Dash’s tummy. A mischievous grin appeared on her face. “Don’t want to wake up huh? Well.. let see if this will get you to wake up.” She lowered her hooves to Rainbows tummy and started to tickle her. Nothing at first, but she could've sworn she saw Dash’s wings twitch. She kept it up finally finding a particularly ticklish spot on the cyan mares tummy. Rainbows eyes shot open and she looked at Scootaloo. Her face contorted at first probably trying to hold back a laugh, but after a few minutes of tickling Dash finally broke out in laughter.

“Scootaloo hahaha! Come on! Stop I’m up okay.” Scootaloo stopped her assault and climbed off the mare and let Dash roll onto her stomach. “Well since I am up lets get your leg taken care of, then we’ll head off to Twilights. Go downstairs and wait for me on the couch will ya?”

“Okay Rainbow Dash.” Scootaloo said and hopped off the bed making her way downstairs. Dash taking a moment to stretch, she hopped up off the bed and went downstairs; Then sat next to Scootaloo sitting the couch.

“How do your wings feel this morning Scootaloo?”

“The feel alright a little sore though.”

“Here let me take a look at them.” Scootaloo leaned over allowing Dash to look at the wing she had bandaged. “Well this one looks pretty good.” She poked it gently. “Does it still hurt?”

“Actually.. No it doesn’t. Is that good?”

“Very good. It means your wing is healing and the soreness is gone, but give it a few days to fully heal.”

“Okay. Well finish on my leg, I am excited to see what this surprise you have for me.”

“Okay then give me a second.” Rainbow pulled out the bag and slipped on a hoof glove. “Hold still Scootaloo. Your fur is growing back and I don’t want to pull on your skin when I remove the bandage.” Dash slowly peeled off the bandage and reached for the salve.

“Soo.. Dash.”

“Yeah Scootaloo?” Dash replied gently applying the salve to her wound.

“What’s the big surprise?” Dash finished with the salve and grabbed a fresh bandage and applied it to her wound.

“Oh no. You’ll see just be patient.” Scootaloo huffed.

“Oh fine.” she said a bit pouty. “You're no fun!” Rainbow laughed when she said that.

“Come on squirt lets head out.” Scootaloo nodded and hopped off the couch and followed Rainbow out of the house. “Hop on time's a wastin.”

“Okay.” Dash laid down and the young filly hopped on.

“Here we go!” Rainbow leaped off into the clouds heading for Twilight's library.

****

The two pegasus’s landed at Twilight’s library a few moments later Rainbow went up and knocked on the door. After a moment A familiar voice came from behind the door.

“I’m coming.” The door swung open and Spike was standing at the door. “Oh hiya you two! Twilight is waiting for you in the reading room. Rarity and Applejack are here too. Why don’t you two head on back.”

“Okay thanks Spike” Scootaloo and Dash waved to the dragon and made their way into the reading room.

“Howdy there Rainbow an’ Scootaloo, how ya’ll doin? Finally made up yer mind there did ya?”

“Heya Applejack, we are doing fine thanks, and yes I have. Did you get everything I need Twilight?” the lavender unicorn with her face buried in a book looked up and nodded.

“Yes Rainbow Dash Princess Celestia sent me the needed documents yesterday.” Scootaloo getting curious decided to speak up.

“Documents? What’s going on Dash?” Rainbow sat down to let the orange filly slide off her back. the she turned to face her and placed her hooves on Scootaloo’s shoulders.

“Something I’ve been thinking about for awhile now. Something I feel I am now ready to take on.” Scootaloo ears perked up and she raised an eyebrow.

“What are you talking about?” Dash took the document from Twilight and showed it to Scootaloo. The fillies jaw hung open.

“You, you want to...you want to adopt me?” Scootaloo started to breath heavily. She was unable to contain her joy. “B-but won’t I get in your way? I mean I’m just....” Scootaloo trailed off, she was about to call herself a useless waste of space like her past would make her believe but she stopped herself. “...Oh Thank you Rainbow! Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!” Scootaloo said, she pounced on Rainbow giving her a large hug.

“Heh, no problem, Scoots.”

“Oh darling this is wonderful! Congratulations you two!

“Way ta go Dash! Ah knew ya had it in ya!”

“Rainbow Dash when you’re ready please sign the document, and I’ll send it off to Celestia to make it official.”

“Okay Twilight give me a second.” she turned to look as Scootaloo. “Now Scootaloo I know I really want this, but I want to know, is this what you want? I just want to make absolutely sure you’re happy with the choice you're about to make.” Scootaloo sat there looking at Rainbow Dash for a moment

“Are you kidding me Dash? Of course this is what I want! You don’t have to ask me twice!” Scootaloo said, she smiled, she was finally getting what she wanted, a loving home. A family she always wanted.

“Well okay then squirt. Welcome to the family!” Dash sighed the document and hoofed it to Twilight. She called Spike in and hoofed him the scroll. A flash of green fire and it was gone. “thanks for all the help girls I might of made a stupid mistake if you weren't here to help me.”

“Aww.. Mah pleasure Rainbow Dash.”

“Darling I’ll always be there if you need me. You only need to ask.”

“My door is always open Rainbow Dash if you ever need advice.” Just then a Spike burped and a scroll appeared. “I think thats for you Rainbow Dash.”

“Yeah I think you’re right Twilight.” She went over and took the scroll and slid the seal off and read it.

“Congratulations Rainbow Dash. I Princess Celestia hereby announce you to be legal guardian of Scootaloo. I wish you the best of luck in the future and hope you and Scootaloo grow and learn to love one another. ~Princess Celestia”

Scootaloo read the note over Rainbow’s shoulder. She smiled when she read it. Rainbow pulled Scootaloo around and hugged her tightly. Scootaloo returned the hug. She didn’t move, staying in Rainbow’s embrace, one could almost call it a sisterly bond.

Author's Note

21,373 words (Or there about according to documents)... this is all fine and fun, but when you upload it from google documents, there are so many fragments its not even funny, after the initial upload, it took me another half an hour to actually check and move over all of the fragments from documents to fim...