Twilight came to Rainbow's new home, curious to finally see it, now that it was finally complete and ready. Her old one had been destroyed during the warring states, and not only was this in a different location, but a completely different kind of home.

It was almost identical to Fluttershy's cottage. Only instead of being on the ground, it was higher up on stilts, which made for a wrap-around balcony. Some of the details were different, as well as the wood colouring and shapes of the windows, but it was still a sweet little countryside cottage. Around the cottage offered the amazing view of the far off open lands, which were still slowly but surely having been restored to what they once were. Since the back of the balcony was facing west, Twilight knew that it was going to make for some incredible sunsets every night.

She walked up the front steps, seeing Rainbow Dash hanging a wooden sign over the front door. It had been wood-burned and painted a creamy yellow. On either side were three butterflies that matched Fluttershy's cutie mark, with the words: Fluttershy's Dream Home.

Not even looking at the unicorn, Rainbow landed down onto the front porch and admired her work.

“Back in Cloudsdale... Fluttershy's parents had this house. It had a balcony in the back, and it gave a few like this one. She always loved going out on that balcony whenever she could. Especially during sunset. She always dreamed of having a home like that again,” Rainbow said softly, a little smile overcoming her features. “When she got her old cottage in Ponyville, she loved it. It was like her other dream home away from home. She was happy. All that was missing was the view. But she was fine with that.”

Twilight overlooked the sign, the front porch, and turned to her friend, “It's lovely, Rainbow. I can't believe you made a home like this. You really didn't have to. But it was sweet.”

Rainbow exhaled, still smiling, “Of course I didn't have to. But I wanted to. I wanted to make something for her. After all, when we were fillies, we always wanted to live in a home together. Course, unless you count us sharing a room in Flight School and Junior Flight Camp...didn't exactly happen. But I guess now's a good a time as any to make that happen.”

“...Wow. That's really sweet. I think Fluttershy would love this,” Twilight murmured, patting her friend's back. “You sure you're okay to live in a place like this?”

With a nod, the cyan pegasus looked to her, “You bet I am, Twi. After what's happened now, I don't want it any other way. I'm gonna live here until I'm dead.”

The thought made Twilight shudder, but she decided not to think further about it now, “So...well, that's great. Why don't you show me the inside, and we'll go to Fluttershy's memorial? I told Rarity and Applejack that I'd come get you, anyway. That is...if you want to go.”

“I do want to go,” Rainbow stated, getting up and opening the front door, “I'm gonna be there for Fluttershy's memory.”

Nodding, the unicorn followed her inside, “We'd been searching around Canterlot since it was restored. We didn't find her body. I think it might've been destroyed along with the city at the time. But we did find ashes of her, along with the remains of a few damaged feathers. Whatever happened to her bones is a mystery. So, we're going to bury all of that and anything else for her in a the grave.”

Aside from a quick nod, Rainbow Dash didn't respond. Twilight understood, deciding not to press further. They were now in the living area of the cottage, which Twilight could now see was one big room, aside from a doorway leading into a kitchen. Alongside the furnished living area, there was also a set of stairs leading to a second floor. The walls and flooring were hardwood, with a couple of rugs along some areas.

The living room had two couches and an easy chair, a coffee table, and an entertainment unit. A fireplace sat along one wall with stones surrounding it on the wall and floor. Near the kitchen doorway was a dining room table seating four, with a flowery centrepiece. Along the room were some knick-knacks and some photos saved from before, along with some new ones that were taken.

Looking around the room, Twilight gave a little nod of approval. It had that rustic, natural charm she knew Fluttershy loved, mixed with Rainbow's own flare.

“So here's the living room and dining room kinda thing... Here's the kitchen,” Rainbow led the way through the doorway now.

Twilight took in the kitchen as well, especially in how there were large windows and a backdoor that faced the balcony's panoramic view. The kitchen itself wasn't anything spectacular, but it did look nice with oak cabinets, a yellow marble countertop, and some basic appliances.

“Pretty nice, Rainbow.”

Rainbow opened the back door, going out onto the balcony, with Twilight following. The view sure was amazing, the unicorn noted, and could see why Fluttershy would have loved this. It was breathtaking.

“Wow...it really is beautiful,” Twilight remarked, looking all around them, “I think you're right. Fluttershy would love this.”

“Yeah,” Rainbow gazed out to the view with a faraway look in her eyes, her mane blowing in the breeze, “I'd give it to her if she were still here...but for now, I guess I can use it as a way to honour her memory. It's all I can do.”

“It's great, Rainbow, it really is. I think Fluttershy would be thrilled,” Twilight murmured, looking out to the view as well.

The cyan pegasus was silent for a few moments, just gazing out to the horizon, unmoving. Twilight bit her lip, considering her words before speaking up again.

“You'll really be okay living here? All by yourself? You are a bit of a ways off from town. You'll be close to Applejack and Rarity, yeah, but are you sure?”

“Believe me, Twilight. I'm sure. I'd rather do this for Fluttershy than have that old cloud house I had back in the day. I'm gonna be fine.”

Twilight looked at her friend again, seeing the determination within her cerise eyes, “Okay. I believe you, Rainbow. But if you ever need anything, you know where to find me in Canterlot, right?”

“I do, yeah. That's where Fluttershy's grave is gonna be, right?”

“Uh-huh, it is.”

Rainbow nodded, turning away and looking downward, heading to the door, “Let's go. Don't want to keep AJ and Rarity waiting. Where's Pumpkin?”

“Back in Canterlot, with the Princesses. They're going to meet us at the gravesite. Applejack and Rarity are waiting for us at the train station,” The lavender mare responded, turning to follow her friend.

Rainbow nodded, not saying anything again as she led the way out of the house. Twilight followed after her mutely, hoping that she would be okay come the memorial service. But she knew all too well that Rainbow would take it the hardest after herself.

It was a very small gathering at the Canterlot Cemetery when the remaining Elements of Harmony and Cutie Mark Crusaders arrived. Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Shining Armor, Princess Cadance and Pumpkin were the only other ones present. However, it was deemed appropriate, surely what Fluttershy would have wanted. Just a simple affair surrounded by her close friends.

Her ashes were buried in the earth, with a tombstone upon the marking place. On the tombstone read a simple but heartwarming inscription of the departed pony:

In Loving Memory of
Fluttershy
The Element of Kindness
A good friend to all living creatures

Twilight smiled as she read the inscription. It was all that was needed.

They all stood, with soft, solemn gazes, whilst the storm clouds above were being formed by Canterlot's newly recruited weather team. But neither cared, simply taking the moment to grieve in silence, before they would speak.

Celestia stepped forward first, beginning the service, “Everypony, we are gathered here in the memory of our dearly departed Fluttershy. She has departed from us far too soon, having met her untimely death by cruel murder. While the one who took her life has since been deceased, it still leaves us with heavy hearts as we mourn her loss. She was young still, so full of life. Fluttershy was the true bearer of the Element of Kindness, and even to the day she had passed. At least now, we can remain in solace that her nightmare is over. May we forever keep her close in our hearts. For she will be missed, but never forgotten.”

The regal alicorn came forward, placing some flowers upon Fluttershy's grave.

“Should anypony wish to say a few words, you may do so.”

Luna stepped forward then, placing some flowers upon the grave as well, “We have but a few words to say. Fluttershy's passing was tragic and unfortunate, especially in having witnessed it with our own eyes. She went away fast, without pain, though we can only imagine that for one split moment...it had been terrifying. We can only hope she is, though in that dreaded place, at least safe. Her nightmare is over, though most may wonder if this is even better. But it is beyond even our control. All we can do now is hope for the best. She deserves that much. For now, as we remain, we shall honour her memory. Fluttershy may not be a hero or a revered pony of high standing, but she is deserving of her memory. May she find solace, even within the dreaded Ghostlands.”

Bowing her head, she stepped back.

Rarity went next, placing some pure white roses on the grave of her departed friend, “Fluttershy was a darling pony, who I surely have had the privilege to know. While I did enjoy our spa trips together back when I still lived in Ponyville, I know there is far more to our time together. And as I look back, I truly miss it very much. She was great company, whether for simply spending time doing something fun, or confiding in her. I am indeed outraged that she met such a cruel end...but I can only hope she is all right now, wherever this place is.

“Fluttershy...had always been such a kind, sweet and gentle mare, always thinking of others before herself. She had certainly proved as a great foalsitter for my sister and her friends, I did not doubt it for a moment. Though my life will go on, as it has been since we returned... I will not forget my dear departed friend. I will be making a new fashion line in her honour as my way of keeping her memory alive. It is not much, I wish I could do so much more...but it will be enough for now. Fluttershy, darling...I miss you, and I am so sorry for everything. Here is to you, forever and always.”

Rarity began to cry softly, tears running down her face and running through her makeup. But she didn't care, not this time. She went back to where she'd been standing, earning a pat from Applejack.

Said farm pony stepped forward, placing some daisies on the grave before she spoke up,

“Howdy there, sugarcube. Wherever ya are now,” Applejack said to the grave, before facing everypony else, “Fluttershy was definitely a great friend ta have. It's sad ta see her go, 'specially without havin' been able ta say goodbye. Ah was hopin' she'd go far better than this...she deserves better. But Ah guess what's done is done. Ah do miss her, an' Ah miss her more than Ah thought now. She was always there when ya needed her, she was always so helpful. Workin' with her was great, 'specially when she could help with animals. Ah always admired her good work with 'em critters. She deserves a medal fer all that there hard work she's done, Ah think. It ain't fair that this happened ta her, an' Ah hope ta preserve her memory. There's gonna be an apple tree right in our orchard named after her. Tha Fluttershy Tree. It ain't much, but we'll do our share in makin' tribute ta her a best we can. Whatever we do, we hope it keeps her memory alive.

“Fluttershy was amazin', an' Ah hope we'll all see her again one day. Sounds impossible, but Ah wouldn't fault y'all fer hopin'. She's still here with us somehow, she's still in our hearts. An' that's where she'll always be. Forever remembered, no matter what.”

The formerly-known Cutie Mark Crusaders came forward next, placing some daisies of their own on the grave.

“Ah miss Fluttershy...it's been so long since Ah last saw her. But she was a great friend an' foalsitter ta us...” Apple Bloom said softly, looking teary-eyed.

“Fluttershy was like that other sister to me, and she was awesome in her own way,” Scootaloo murmured, trying to hide the fact that she was crying.

“Fluttershy was sweet and kind, she was the best foalsitter we could hope for. I hope she'll be okay, wherever she is now. I wish we could've said goodbye one last time,” Sweetie Belle sniffled, wiping her eyes with a hoof, “Hope she'll rest in peace.”

Cadance came next, along with Shining Armor, as they both placed yellow lilies on the grave.

“I hadn't had the chance to get to know Fluttershy as much as I now wish I could have. But from what little time I did talk with her, she was very sweet and kind. I can always remember the way she trained her birds to provide the harmonious music during our wedding,” Cadance said softly, looking to her husband fondly before turning her attention to the grave, “She was one of a kind, in a lot of ways. I feel very fortunate to have known her, however briefly. I will see to it that the Crystal Empire will remember her as well.”

Shining Armor spoke next, “Twiley talks a lot about her friends, and Fluttershy was no different. They did spend a lot of time together in Canterlot, and she was there when Twilight needed a bit of help. I can't thank Fluttershy enough for that. I myself may not have known her so well, but I can definitely attest to the fact that she was a very kind, sweet pony and just overall great to be around. She deserves the very best, and I hope we can keep her memory alive.”

Coming up to place some yellow tulips onto the grave, Pumpkin was next, “I really liked Fluttershy's company, too. She was a great pony to have around, and was somepony I could talk to when Twilight needed some time. Seeing her die like that was terrible, and I wish I could forget it...but I'll try. I'm going to try to remember the days she lived, and not just when she died. Because she deserves a lot better than that. Fluttershy's sweetness and kindness was inspiring, and I know a lot of ponies can learn from her. I don't think we'll ever meet another pony like her for a long time. We'll always keep her memory alive.”

Twilight looked over at Rainbow Dash, encouraging her to go next. But the cyan mare shook her head and motioned for her to go instead. Understanding, she nodded and stepped forward, placing a mixed bouquet of flowers on the grave.

“Fluttershy was one of my best friends, especially since she was always close by for the past few years since I'd been living in Canterlot. And throughout all of this...madness, she was there, too. I too, feel responsible in how I wished I could have been there to help her. But it was beyond my control, there wasn't much else I could do. When I found out she...died, I felt exactly as I did when we all saw that Pinkie was...also murdered. I just...realized how final and scary it is, to lose somepony so close to you. And especially for somepony who didn't deserve it. Neither of them did. I'm just glad Fluttershy's nightmare is over...and that she's at least okay in the Ghostlands now. I doubt it, considering what I heard about it, but if I know Fluttershy, she always found a way to make something work.

“Her death taught me something. Not only did it teach me that there are those out there who can be cruel...but it also taught me that you should never take your friends or family for granted. And that's something I learned back then, and learned all over again. I'm really going to miss her, we all are. But it's just as we all said, we're going to keep her memory alive. I will dedicate a wing in the library to her, I'm going to see to it that her story and memory lives on. She was a great friend, a great pony, and a great animal caretaker. She deserves to be remembered for everything she's done for all of us. Fluttershy...we miss you, and we hope you're okay. But I hope you know that we'll never forget you. Ever. You're always here with us in our hearts.”

Fighting back tears, Twilight stood back, giving a small, sad smile toward Rainbow Dash and nodding.

Receiving a nod in return, Rainbow now stepped forward and placed a bouquet of red, white, blue, and yellow roses onto the grave.

“I'm no good with this sappy stuff, but to hay with it. I need to let this all out,” she said, and cleared her throat, looking to the grave, “Fluttershy was my best friend. We'd been friends since we were fillies, and she was the best. Sure, she couldn't fly so well, or too fast, had confidence issues and was really shy, but who the hay cares. It didn't make her any less awesome. We were both outcasted, so we kinda stuck together, and she was really the only friend I ever had. She was always there for me when I needed it, and she always listened to me. I never felt I had to be big and awesome around her, because I knew that she liked me for who I was. I guess you can say I could really be myself with her. She was always somepony I could confide in, and she was always helpful in her own way.

“What can I say that wasn't already said, Fluttershy was the sweetest and kindest pony I ever knew. She was special to me, always had been. Even when I didn't seem like it...” Her gaze grew downcast with shame at this before she continued, “For the past few years, since I joined the Wonderbolts, I didn't get to see her very much. But we did keep in touch with letters. The last time I ever saw her was nearly three years ago now. The last letter she ever sent me was a few months ago. They're all I have left of her, and I... I miss her. I wish I could've been there to help her, to protect her, to save her. Now that she's gone, I feel empty inside. She was always the bread to my butter, the cherry on top of a sundae, the frosting on a cupcake. I miss her, but I'm gonna honour her memory every way I can. She deserves that much. Just until I find her again. Until then, I've got one more thing. Fluttershy was not only my best friend, but she was the very reason I have this.”

Rainbow Dash indicated to her cutie mark for a moment, going silent before she continued, looking up at the sky wistfully.

“When I was a filly, I defended Fluttershy's honour when those stupid bullies picked on her. If I hadn't defended her honour, I wouldn't have gotten this baby here. And I also would never have performed a Sonic Rainboom. It was all because of her. She was always my inspiration, my rock, my greatest support. My number one flyer, number one cheerleader. And now, every time I do a Sonic Rainboom...it's gonna be for her. So with that... Flutters, this is for you.”

Everypony watched with amazement as the cyan pegasus flew up into the air like a rocket. She went higher and higher, until she was practically a barely visible dot against the gray clouds. Despite the stormy weather approaching, she didn't seem to care at all. They watched, waiting with anticipation, until they saw a light and rainbow streak careening toward the ground. No doubt it was Rainbow Dash coming close to breaking the sound barrier.

A loud, deafening sonic boom sounded as a beautiful spectrum of colours exploded all over the sky. Whether it was the effect of having not seen one for ages or not, it seemed to be the most beautiful and strong than it ever had been. An arc of a beautiful, full rainbow was then formed over the graveyard, adding a sense of light and colour to the otherwise stormy sky.

Warm smiles overcame the small group of ponies as they looked on with amazement at the display, a sense of warmth coming to their hearts. Twilight smiled brightly, thinking back to the very sonic rainboom that had played a hand in bringing them all together. Even when they didn't know it. She couldn't have thought of a better way for Rainbow Dash to pay tribute to their fallen friend.

At the corner of her eye, she could swear she saw something some ways off. Glancing to the side, she saw nothing. Frowning slightly, she wondered... But then passed it off as nothing more than her imagination.

Rainbow landed back on the ground near them, looking satisfied, despite the glint of sadness in her eyes. “There.”

“A very fitting tribute, Rainbow Dash,” Celestia said softly with approval, “Let us all take one last moment of silence.”

They did so, bowing their heads in respect. It was then that it began to rain, even amidst the lovely rainbow that arched over the cemetery. Twilight couldn't help but note that it felt like a tragic story cliche, but didn't let it bother her. If anything, it fit the mood quite well. Rain was also nourishing, meant to wash away the tough elements. A new, fresh start waiting on the other side.

“We can head back to the castle,” Celestia spoke up again, “I'm sure you all must be hungry. Feel free to follow us there if you wish to do so.”

“Princess, if it's okay, I'm gonna stay here a few minutes,” Rainbow said, sitting near Fluttershy's grave.

Celestia nodded, smiling at her knowingly, “That's fine, Rainbow Dash. I understand.”

The rest of the group offered their last minute respects before they too dispersed and followed the Princesses to the castle. Twilight remained there with Rainbow as well, wishing to take a few moments to grieve Fluttershy's memory. Neither mare said a word for some time, they only just sat there, looking to the gravestone while it rained ceaselessly all around. It didn't even matter that their coats and manes were soaked by this point.

Twilight glanced at her friend, smiling slightly, “That was a really moving idea, Rainbow. Doing a Sonic Rainboom just for her. I'm sure she would've been so happy...”

“Heh, what can I say, it's thanks to her that I even did it,” Rainbow smiled a bit, then grew serious, “Y'know...I gotta thank that Ascentia woman now.”

“Why?” Twilight asked.

“Back on that place...you know, that big frozen place we went to when Equestria was pretty much doomed?”

“Oh, you mean Neptune. Yes, what about it?”

Rainbow sighed, looking to her then, “When I found out Fluttershy died...I went nuts. When I really let it sink in, when I really knew I lost her forever... I almost didn't come back here with you guys. I'm sure you know that now, I flew off in anger. When they said they were going to bring us back here, I didn't want to go.”

“Oh, yeah... Ascentia went to go find you when we heard about that,” the unicorn recalled, frowning slightly, “But why didn't you want to come back?”

“Because Fluttershy wasn't going to be here. I was upset and mourning her, okay?! I wasn't exactly thinking straight. I just...didn't want a life without her. So I went out there...attempting to freeze to death.”

“You were going to kill yourself?!” Twilight yelled with disbelief.

A rueful, embarrassed grin overcame the daredevil's face as she looked back at Fluttershy' grave, “Like I said, I wasn't exactly thinking clearly. I was angry, I was sad, I was distraught...I was another dis word I don't even know... You get the point. I wasn't exactly myself. Point is, I just didn't want to go back knowing Fluttershy wouldn't be here. All I wanted was for her to be safe. It was all I thought about when this whole mess started. And then I find out she's dead... Murdered... I just couldn't take it. It just made me regret everything.”

Twilight sighed, placing a hoof on her back, “So that's why Ascentia was dragging you back by your tail.”

“Yeah. She found me out there, and well, she kinda knocked some sense into me. Even if she had to get physical. She just wouldn't let me do it,” Rainbow chuckled a bit, “She said she didn't want to face your wrath if she let me die out there.”

“...Oh...” Twilight looked down with embarrassment, “I guess I would've gotten pretty upset, all things considered.”

Rainbow smirked lightly, looking toward her, “You went crazy when you thought you were tardy for a friendship report. Can't imagine what you would've done if someone killed a friend of yours.”

“Oh, you had to bring THAT up!” Twilight rolled her eyes, “Very funny, Miss Comedienne of the Year!”

Rainbow stuck her tongue out playfully before averting her gaze, “But I gotta thank her for doing that. I needed it. I needed some tough help to realize I was being stupid. All along I was told to honour her memory, and I wanted to, but then I just snapped. I just couldn't do it. Y'know, I made a promise to Fluttershy that I'd always find her. That's why I was trying to freeze to death. ...I was trying to go to the Ghostlands and find her.

“But thanks to that, I realized what a stupid thing that was. I was throwing my life away just for that. Just to find her and wander around for all eternity. In one fell swoop, that's what I was gonna do. Before even giving myself a chance to keep going. To honour her memory. To cherish her life. And that's what I'm gonna do. I'm living my life to the fullest as best I can, and then when I die...” Rainbow smiled, looking to the unicorn, “That'll be when I find her. I'm going to find her, Twi. Nothing will stop me.”

As much as Twilight knew that it was pointless, she couldn't help but admire her friend's determination to still try for it when the time came. She could see the pain and grief in her friend's voice, eyes and expression, but the sheer determination was not lost. It was still that same daring, adventurous and determined Rainbow Dash she remembered.

“Well, Rainbow...it's gonna be hard to find her in there, from what I heard. A big, endless terrain...it's gonna take forever. And that's even assuming you knew where she went,” Twilight sighed, looking to Fluttershy's grave again, “But you know what...You do that. At least it'll be a goal to shoot for when you get there. I can't exactly argue with that. It'll give you something to shoot for...you'll have an eternity to find her.”

“I'll find her. I promised her, and I'm not going to go back on that,” Rainbow murmured, placing a hoof on the tombstone, “Besides, we've got a lot of unfinished business to talk about, anyway.”

Twilight giggled a bit, looking at her again, “I can see that.”

“Say... Did Fluttershy ever talk about...you know, what happened when she came back from vacationing with me?”

“No, not really,” Twilight recalled the memory, thinking for a few moments, “All I can remember is that she did talk about what a good time you guys had. She really enjoyed the place you went to, and just wouldn't stop talking about it the day she came back. Although, I think there was more to it than she said. She just kind of had this look about her whenever she talked about it.”

Much to her surprise, the cyan mare was blushing then. Twilight rose an eyebrow then, wondering what brought this on.

“Rainbow...did something happen between you two?”

With a sigh, Rainbow Dash looked at her very seriously, “I'm gonna tell you something. But don't tell anypony else about it. I'm gonna deny it if you do.”

“I Pinkie promise. Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” Rolling her eyes, Twilight made the familiar gestures of a Pinkie Promise.

“...Fine then. During that vacation, things got a little weird, and I still don't really know why. At some point, Fluttershy and I kissed. ...Then it...kinda got... One thing led to another and we started sleeping together.”

“Sleeping together as in falling asleep or did you mean-”

“We had sex.”

Twilight blinked, wide-eyed, “Oh! ...Oh, wow... I guess that explains why she was glowing when she came back. I thought it was just because she got a lot of sun. No wonder she seemed more blushy than usual whenever you were brought up.”

“Yeah...” Rainbow looked away again, still blushing, “We just kinda slept together ever since then until we left. We never talked about it after that. Not until we were going to meet again. ...You know what happened with that.”

“Never did, huh? I'm really sorry, Rainbow...” Twilight placed a hoof on her back, “How did it all make you feel?”

Rainbow didn't respond for a few moments, she just gazed at the tombstone. Her cerise eyes were watering, either by the rain or from tears, “What happened during our vacation was awesome, I couldn't imagine it with anypony else. She wrote 'I love you' in her last letter to me. I don't even know what kind of love she meant by it.”

“Oh...” Twilight lowered her hoof, taking all of this in. “Well, Rainbow...I've got something to tell you. I was hoping she'd tell you herself, but since she can't...I'll do it. When Fluttershy was writing her last letter to you, she asked me if she should write that in there. Well, she told me everything. Fluttershy was in love with you, she just, kept it quiet from everypony except to herself. She was afraid of holding you back from your dreams and burdening you with her feelings. Not to mention she wasn't sure how you felt, so she didn't want to risk the rejection. For somepony who's shy, no wonder that's a scary prospect. So...yeah. That little bit of her letter was a confession. I guess she thought you wouldn't take it that way, and yet, hoped you would so that could see where you both stood.”

She looked over at her friend, seeing the stricken expression on her face. Rainbow looked a mixture of elated, and yet, despaired. The despair was slowly taking over as her ears drooped and her head lowered. Twilight bit her lip, wondering if she was going to cry, how she was going to react. Her own heart did backflips while her blood seemed to run faster through her system. Everything on Rainbow's end, aside from her letters, up until recently, were a mystery. Right now, she was seeing it all for herself. She'd seen Fluttershy's side of things for some time, and now, she was seeing the other side of the coin.

With a sniffle, Rainbow looked to the tombstone and gently patted it, “I love her, too.”

A small, warm smile overcame Twilight's face as she nodded, looking to the gravestone once again, “I was thinking that, but I wasn't sure until you said it.”

“I mean it, Twilight. I love her. Even if I didn't, even if she didn't, I'm still going to try to find her one day,” the cyan pegasus murmured, her voice tender, “You know, I never really knew it at first, all those years ago. All I knew was that I felt weird around her. Go figure, rough and tough Rainbow Dash doesn't know a darn thing about love. But seriously, it actually wasn't until our vacation together that I really realized it. Then again, I never really knew for sure until I found out she died. When they told us...I...”

Seeing her friend tremble, Twilight reached out and touched her shoulder comfortingly.

“I felt like someone ripped my heart out and stomped on it. Tore off my wings. Ripped out all my organs. You know I almost couldn't even come back here because of it, right? There you go. That's when I knew for sure. I walked off to be by myself, and I was reminiscing, you know,” Rainbow went on, wiping her eyes, “I miss her. I didn't fully realized I loved her until I knew she was gone forever.”

“....I'm sorry, Rainbow...her death was hard on all of us. I see why you're taking it the hardest,” Twilight murmured, shaking her head, “Is there anything we can do to help?”

“Nah. It's okay. I'm gonna be fine. I'm living my life, for myself, for all my friends, and for her. There's no way I'm wasting it,” Rainbow said proudly, albeit sadly.

“Are you going to go back to the Wonderbolts?”

“No. I lived that dream. Besides, they're rebuilding the academy and bringing in new recruits. I might go and help 'em out, train them and show them the ropes, but other than that, I'm just going to settle down. We've had all kinds of adventures, and I think I'm done with that. I've been given my old job as a weather pony back, and I think that's all I really need,” Rainbow said, looking to her then, “Besides, I want to be closer to you guys. You guys are all I have left.”

“...I understand,” Twilight smiled a bit, “We're glad to have you back, Rainbow.”

“It's great to be back, Twilight! I'm ready to really start over and live my life to the fullest,” Rainbow gave a small grin, “You go ahead. I just want to talk to Fluttershy alone.”

Twilight nodded, getting up, “Sure thing, Rainbow. I'll be in the castle with the others, you can join us when you're ready. You'll be okay, right?”

The prismatic-maned pony nodded, not looking at her, “Of course I'll be okay. Don't worry, Twilight. I'm not gonna do anything stupid like I did back on Neptune. I'm just gonna talk to Fluttershy a bit. I know it sounds crazy, but it makes me feel better.”

“Even if she can't answer you?”

“That's a drag, but I like to think, maybe, she can hear me somehow.”

Twilight gave a little smile before she turned and headed back toward the castle. For a moment, she glanced over her shoulder, seeing Rainbow Dash still sitting before Fluttershy's grave. Assured once more, the unicorn kept on going to give her friend some time alone to mourn properly.

She wanted to cry herself, but just couldn't find it in her to do so right now. But that was okay. She would save it for later. At least now she could be strong for her friends and her family, that was what counted. Maybe not everypony made it out of this alive, but for everypony who did, she hoped they would pull through.

It was going to be a whole new journey ahead of them. Their lives had changed time and time again in the past, but never like this. Death, war, the vast universe, powers beyond imagination, it was all a part of that spectrum. Her heart sank, swelled, and her body felt strong, yet numb.

Twilight sighed, looking up to the stormy sky, before she continued on her trek to the castle.

With the rain falling on and around her, Rainbow Dash gazed at the tombstone of Fluttershy's grave. Her wings, ears and shoulders were drooped, despite the sad smile on her face.

“Hey, Flutters... You know, it's kinda nice I can finally talk to you like this. You know...it seems like it was just yesterday that we first met. I remember the way you looked at me, kind of like you needed me. When all was said and done, from your sadness and my determination to defend your honour, well...I guess our happiness together grew. Then I kinda realized...I needed you, too,” she chuckled a bit at this, smiling more, “I remember the way we used to play! Tumbling around on the clouds, wrapped up in each other and laughing like hyenas!”

She laughed a bit, even though Fluttershy didn't answer, nor laugh along with her.

“And now I find...we're both alone,” Rainbow murmured, placing a hoof on the tombstone, “I'm sorry I wasn't there for you...when you needed it. I wish I could've protected you from all this. I'm so sorry. But there's nothing I can do about that, is there? I shouldn't blame myself, but I know it isn't my fault. At least you're safe now, that's all I can ask for. We all miss you, you know. Especially since we all hadn't seen you for a long time before you died... At least that jerk who killed you is gone. Otherwise I might've had to hunt him down and kill him myself. ...But that wouldn't do anything, would it? Nope, guess not. Then again, I would've liked to see him imprisoned and suffered for many years to come. Oh well. I'm trying not to dwell on the past. I'm trying to move on.

“But, everything's changed. We're all home now. Really home. I made you a place in your honour. Your dream home. I wish you could see it now. Everypony's doing pretty good now, actually. Twilight's back in Canterlot, doing her thing and raising Pumpkin. Rarity's set back up where Ponyville used to be, and she's getting her clothing business back together. Applejack and her family are back to farming again, now that the soil's doing better.

“You remember the Cutie Mark Crusaders? Yeah, they're okay, too. Apple Bloom still doesn't have her cutie mark, but she still doesn't care. She still writes and does some more carpentry around the farm. Sweetie Belle is helping Rarity, and doing some little singing at the local joints to lift everypony's spirits. Her voice gets better every time I hear it, really. Scootaloo, yeah, that lovable pipsqueak, she's doing awesome. Still flying, doing some dancing, and some daring tricks. In fact, she's training to join the Wonderbolts! Isn't that awesome?”

Rainbow laughed a bit, smiling more with the uplifting thoughts.

“As for me, I've got your dream home. Our dream home. It's all finished now, and it's really sweet. I've got my old job back with the weather team, and that works for me. I'll help out the recruits at the Wonderbolt Academy, but I'm going to hang up my uniform for good soon. I lived my dream, and that's enough. Right now, I just want to keep on going with my life surrounded by our friends. That's all I want now. Well, not more than bringing you back here with us. But we can't, can we?”

A soft sigh escaped her as she closed her eyes, leaning a bit toward the tombstone with her hoof supporting her.

“I miss you so much, Fluttershy. I wish you were here with me. You know, back when our vacation passed, I was hoping to be done with the Wonderbolts soon, and then come back to you. By then, all I really knew was that I wanted to at least try, even if I wasn't sure what to do.”

She laughed humorlessly before she smiled fondly, wiping her eyes.

“But you know what? You were awesome. I'd never felt that way before. And best of all, it was with you. It was more than just sleeping together, it was everything. And now... It's hard living life without you, knowing you're not there. Sure, I won't be unhappy or miserable, I'll be just fine. But I feel like my wings were clipped. I almost don't even want to fly anymore. If I could trade in my wings to bring you back, I would. I'd rather live a life on the ground, with you, than in the air without you.”

Tears poured down her face, mixing with the rain.

“By the way, Twilight told me something, I'll bet you heard. I can see why she wanted you to tell me. But now you can't, can you? Well, I wish I could've told you not to be afraid to tell me how you felt! I love you too, Flutters. I really love you. Sure wish I had more foresight back on our vacation together. At least then, you could've gone knowing I loved you. But maybe, hopefully, you knew I felt something for you. Maybe I did, too. I don't know anymore. All I know is how I feel now, how you feel. I wish I could've told you before you died.”

Rainbow began to sob softly, sniffling and trembling a bit. She felt the immense despair and heartbreak from before all over again. Whether or not she would truly recover from it was a mystery. But it did fuel her determination to live on. She was not going to let this bring her down. That almost happened before, and it was not a result she wanted to see. Her heart dropped, yet it swelled, as she managed to calm herself, allowing the tears to freely fall.

“I love you, Fluttershy. I love you...my sweet butterfly.”

With a sad smile, she blew the tombstone a kiss, as if it were her.

“I'm gonna go now...but before I head back home, I'll come see you. I'll visit here anytime I can. Then one day, I'll join you. And even if I have to spend eternity doing so, I'll trek everywhere in the Ghostlands. Sure, I was told it was endless and probably impossible, but I'm not going to let it stop me. I promised you once before, and I'll do it, Flutters. I'll always find you.”

Sniffling, she stood up.

“You know what? It's not goodbye. It's just...that you got a head start in the race. And I'll catch up to you eventually. Until then, I'll see you in my dreams. Before I go, I'll leave you with something a very sweet, kind, and caring pegasus once told me,” she smiled, patting the gravestone once more. “Goodbye may seem forever. Farewell is like the end. But in my heart's a memory. And there, you'll always be.”

Turning, with tears falling down her face, Rainbow Dash cast one more glance at the tombstone. She then walked on toward the castle, not looking back. It was hard, as if she were walking away from Fluttershy herself. The rain continued to fall, the rainbow high above continued to shine, pertaining a bittersweet atmosphere. A rainbow within a storm; light trying to shine through in dark times.

Goodbye may seem forever
Farewell is like the end
But in my heart's a memory
And there, you'll always be

Author's Note

So here's this epilogue of this little side-story. You know, originally, it was just going to be part one. But as I went along, I decided to wait until Doomsday Ascending was pretty much completely over. Especially since I had some ideas festering within my noggin. Now that all is said and done, I was able to do this part here.

Tragedy isn't always easy to write or read, but it is quite interesting to delve into. I've done some little instances of it before, but nothing as major as this. I have to say to that taking on these little challenges have been quite a stretching of my creative muscle. :D Plus, it works since I do love the characters, and we all know that part of what makes tragedies work is when we care about those who were lost, and those who lost.

I do apologize for attacking you all in the feels...

The lyrics are from "Goodbye May Seem Forever" from The Fox and The Hound. Not only at the bottom here, but some of Rainbow's dialogue relates to the rest that was said from the song and movie. It just kind of inspired me, since it's really one of the saddest Disney songs I can remember. It just fit quite well in a way, you know? I know eventually I'll be kicking myself for nothing having picked another sad song, that's for sure!

In the meantime, hope you all enjoyed the story. :)