The Last Rainboomby Rainbow AustinChaptersDashie the UnpreparedThe Surprise and the AuditionFluttershys Unexpected MessageMore SurprisesEpilogue: The Gifts of LifeDashie the UnpreparedI awake with a start. My heart is pounding and my body is drenched in sweat. Those bucking nightmares again! I have had these horrid nightmares for the past week now and they don't show signs of letting up. They're always the same: me flying through the clouds attempting a Sonic Rainboom and at some point it all goes horribly wrong. I shrug it off like I always do in the morning and check my calendar, a gift from the egghead Twilight. She gave it to me for Hearths Warming Day last year. She said it would help me be more organized. Even though I don't like to admit it, it has saved me a few times. As I look into it I instantly see something that makes my heart plummet: The auditions for the Wonderbolts are in two days. I had completely forgotten about the whole audition! I don't even have a routine to perform for the audition! I quickly down my breakfast and sprint out the door of my home. First thought that came into my mind was who to go to for help. I could ask AJ. Nah, too busy with Cider Season coming up soon. What about Pinkie Pie? No, she had to take care of the Cakes children today. Then it hits me. FLUTTERSHY! How could I forget her. She could probably help me out! I sprint flied towards my favorite home to visit. Even though I had some urgency in having Fluttershy answer the door when I rang it, I couldn't help but admire Fluttershy's love for animals. I looked down at the animals that were haphazardly moving about, each unique in its own approach. As the door opens my heart starts to skip a few beats. I swear to Celestia, this happens everytime I see Fluttershy. I sometimes may even go as far as choking up. Focus Dash! You got Wonderbolts Auditions to worry about!. The door creaks open slowly. A yellow mare with beautiful, smooth and pink hair. She was so beautiful in her cottage. Sweet Celestia is she beautiful. She always has been a something of a secret crush of mine. While many may say that we are polar opposites, with the only thing being in common was that we were both Pegasi. But there was something about her that I could never pinpoint. Something different. Maybe it was her smooth silk voice, or her well beautiful sunny skin. Maybe I had a thing for animals. I don't know. Her voice actually took me by surprise. "Hello?" Fluttershy always answers in the same soft, soothing voice. "Errr....hi Fluttershy," I reply. I feel the sweat beginning to form on my brim. My heart seems to have rented itself out to butterflies, the way it felt. Then there was her eyes. Her beautiful green as pine eyes. They hypnotised me. They sent me into a trance. Heck if Fluttershy wanted me to do anything for her right about now, I probably would just to be allowed to stare longer into her eyes. There was not a more beautiful site for me. It seems that she is the one to bring color to my Rainbow. Now why I have a crush on Fluttershy is baffling me. Me! The toughest pony in all of Ponyville. Falling for the sappiness of love! Only Fluttershy could do this to me! Only she could actually make me feel like I'm losing my mind. It all started back in Flight School. Fluttershy was the only friend I truly had in Cloudsdale. Everyone else, well, they hated me. Maybe it was my speed. Maybe my color. I have no idea. All I know is that Fluttershy turns me into a modern Juliet. It takes a moment to realize that Fluttershy is still standing at the door. "Oh! Umm.....," Stop it! This sweat is not helping my image. "I came to ask you a favor" "Oh....umm." She seems stunned. "Well, sure. What do you need me to do? "Well, I've been hiding this for the past couple of weeks and.....well...." Why does she make me like this? Am I insane? "I am, err, going to be auditioning for the Wonderbolts in two days and I need some assistance." "You want me to cheer again? I don't th-" "No! I need you to be my instructor. Someone who can help me out. I don't exactly have a routine at all." I smile sheepishly at this comment. "Why not, Dash?" Honestly, I'd rather not say. I have to keep the past couple of weeks under wraps. So I do something that will probably haunt me. I lie. "Eh....I was busy working on the weather in Ponyville" "Oh...um...ok" "Anyway, I need your help in making me a routine" "Why don't you use the one from the Young Fliers Competition?" "No! The Wonderbolts are going to need something fresh! They already know my routine from then, even though they were unconscious, and I doubt that I'll stick out if I do the same thing. It didn't matter than anyways, seeing as everyone got a wing boner for Rarity. Anyway, yyou can help me make fresh new material! You game?" "Ummm.....well....I'm flattered that you asked, but um..." " Please?" I know what you are thinking. How could I, the greatest flier in all of Equestria, be reduced to asking the slowest pony to ever walk the face of the earth for help in a Wonderbolts audition? Truth is, not even I could answer this question. It could have something to do with her being my crush. Whatever. "Oh.....er....ummm..." Why does she have to be so cute? "Ummm.....I can try to do-" "YEA" I jump into the air and realize, that may have been a little over the top. I instantly rush down and attempt to regain my composure. "Er.....thanks I guess" "Oh ummm.....okay. Um....when do you want to meet?" "How about below my house in about two hours?" "Er....okay" "Okay!" I launched into the air and before I was off shouted, "see ya soon Fluttershy!" Well, two hours to prepare until practice. I could fix my hair, but then again, I'm not Rarity. Well, off to home. Now the question is if I will ever tell Fluttershy how I truly feel. I can't go on like this, what with imagining what could be. I fly through the air and let my problems fly through the air and out of my mind. The Surprise and the AuditionUsually I look forward to practices. Not today though. I feel like my love for Fluttershy will overpower my love for flying. I may not get anything done. I may not even get into the Wonderbolts. But what I really want, more than being captain of the Wonderbolts, was to tell my feelings to Fluttershy. I have always held myself back, but today, no, today will be different. I can do this. This will be the day I go out with Fluttershy! I hope that she will feel the same way. It was at that moment that a horrifying thought crossed my mind. What if Fluttershy was one who would not prefer to, well, have a relationship with a mare. What if she hates me after I tell her? Sweet Celestia, my life sucks! I can choose to keep my friendship with Fluttershy but feel nervous around her all the time, or I can risk throwing it away to show my feelings. I look to my nightstand hoping for some inspiration. There lies my calendar, and Tank, lazing around like I normally would. I decide to trot slowly to my front door and wait in the field below. Its 1:30. Still have 30 minutes until Fluttershy will show. Might as well warm up. My warmup is sort of a ritual for me by now. I always start by flying through the row of trees below my house at high speeds. The wind, it feels excellent on my mane. This is what stress relief feels like. I love it. Now if only I could fly when I tell Fluttershy how I feel. Yes. I will tell her. Better to have tried it than never at all. I keep my mind hooked on this until a sharp pain runs through my right wing. It felt as if a needle was shoved through my vain. I probably dropped a good fifteen feet before I regain my composure. I attempt to soar up into the air but, very quickly, I stop myself. I notice a sillouhette off in the distance. Fluttershy. As if on queue, my heart rate rises, and the persperation begins. I shoot downward to the ground to greet the pink-maned mare. She appears to be as nervous as me. Doubt it. She is not the one about to risk her entire friendship only to get out her own selfish desires. "Er....ba...duh..." What the buck brain? Of all the times! "Er....hey Flu-u-ttershy!" I can barely get out these words when another pain rushes through me. Not as bad as the last, but still shocking nonetheless. "Um...hey Rainbow," she replies. I swear, her voice will be the death of my "coolness" personality. "Um...ah....want to start?" "Er.....sure...but, um, can we wait a sec? I need to tell you something." Pretty sure if Dr. Whooves saw my blood pressure right now, I'd be the one taking care of him. "Er....um....so.....ah......there is something that's been eating at me for the past couple of years." Past couple of years my hoof! "Um....wait Rainbow. I think I know where this is going. Truth is, I wanted to tell you something too." "Um...ah...okay. What is it?" "I......I........I......." She seems as nervous as me! "I......have a crush on you." "Say wha-?" She quickly covers her mouth and runs away as fast as she could. Before I can grasp the what just happened, another pain surges through my body much worse than the last. The pain becomes quickly too much, and I pass out. ============ "WAKE UP SLEEPY DASH!!!!" I awake with a start, looking around as to what is the source of all the commotion. As I look slightly to my left, I see Pinkie Pie being......well, Pinkie Pie. "YOU'RE GOING TO BE LATE!!!!" "Eh? Late for what?" My voice is still groggy but at least I can still comprehend what is going on. "WELL YOUR WONDERBOLTS AUDITIONS SILLY WILLY BILLY!" SHIT! How long have I been sleeping?? I don't have a routine at all! Why didn't Fluttershy wake me any sooner? Is she worried about what happened at practice? What will my routine be? What should I do? "Where is Fluttershy?" I ask, trying my best sound as calm and collected as possible. "They are all at the stadium! Ready to cheer you on along with Scootaloo and ALL OF PONYVILLE!!!!" Great. Everyone is there. What if I screw up? What if Spitfire just sits there and laughs as I do miserably. Well.....might as well get up. Not showing up, I'll be sure to not get in. I just need a routine. Just then, a memory pops into my head. When I went to go see Fluttershy, she asked if I could do my old routine. I guess I could try it. I mean, they were passed out after all. And maybe, just maybe, the Sonic Rainboom will be enough to convince them that I am perfect for the Wonderbolts. Have to try. "How much time do I have?" I ask. "NOW!!! YOU ARE FUNNY DASHIE!!!" Well this is shaping up to be a great day. I fly out the window as fast as I can and rush to Cloudsdale. ============ "WELCOME LADIES AND GENTLEMAN TO THE AUDITIONS FOR THE WONDERBOLTS!!! AN ELITE SQUAD NEEDS A NEW MEMBER AND THESE 5 PEGASI WHO HAVE SHOWN THEIR WORTH ARE READY TO SHOW THEIR BEST MOVES!!!" I stand in a line next to the other four ponies. I don't recognize any of them, but what I do notice is who is in the crowd. Shit. Sitting in the middle is every pony I know. To the right of the stands, my father. I continue to search, and quickly spot Scootaloo jumping up and down, even as high as Pinkie Pie. Seeing this is just enough to crack a quick snicker. But there was no time for that, as I looked up just one row. Fluttershy. She is covering her face so I will not notice her, but I know it is her. How can you mistake it? "LET CONTESTANT NUMBER 1 STEP FORWARD!!!" The announcer booms his voice to let everypony auditioning to go to the tent and wait for our number. On the bright side, I am number 5. Maybe that will make my show seem like a finale. As soon as I hear the bell that tells me that the first contestant has started, the pains return. Nagging at my every sense. Let me just tell you that this is not my idea of exciting. I hear oohs and aahs from the crowd, but my pain is what is at the top of my mind. ================================================================================= "CONTESTANT 5!!! LAST BUT NOT LEAST MS. RAINBOW DASH!!!!" Shit. I get up from where I was sitting and head to the entrance to the tent. While I can feel the pains still in my body, it doesn't compare to my anxiety. I gaze a quick peek outside the tent. I see the judges booth, Spitfire in the center, looking as authoritative as ever. The bell catches my attention. I have five minutes to pull off the best routine I can. I fly upwards as fast as possible. Once I get to my preferred height, I shoot myself downwards, gaining speed. I flatten myself out at the floor of the stadium, well cloud really, and fly around a set of clouds I asked to be set up. I graze through each one, gracefully, and full of style! My nerves are going away, but the pain is coming in worse than ever. I bite my lip as hard as I can to avoid Spitfire seeing any tears. I fly upwards again and head to a nearby cloud. I fly as fast as I can around it in order to get it moving. At first, it doesn't move, causing me to begin freaking out. But to my relief, it slowly starts in course, until it eventually goes so fast that I kick it away. Now for the big guns! Then comes the piercing pain again, but this time it's unlike all the others. The pain is horrific. To make matters worse, this is the first pain that starts in my wings. I have to keep going. Spitfire is looking up, slightly angry looking. Gotta hurry! I fly straight up, as fast as I possible can go, until I see nothing below me. I stop, ready myself, all while ignoring the pain. I fly downwards, my speed increasing. I eventually get enough speed to the point where my eyelids and mouth can't keep up. I inch closer and closer to getting the Rainboom started. Then, another pain, my wings starting it again. I have to ignore it! So close to the Sonic Rainboom! Go go go! Then, all so suddenly, a rainbow starts drifting out from my tail. Yes!! I did it! I feel like celebrating but something else is at hand. My wings aren't to pleased. Without warning, my heart begins to pound like a jackhammer, stabbing me each beat. Then another pain. I try to get out of the Rainboom but I am going too fast. The pain eventually becomes so unbearable, so gutwrenching, that I black out, only to hear one phrase out of Scootaloo, cheering louder than anyone. "YAY DASH!!!!! I TOLD YOU SHE WAS INVINCIBLE!!!!!!" Fluttershys Unexpected Message"Is she gonna be okay doc? She don't look too good....." I wake up slowly, or maybe forcibly is the correct term, to the sound of one of my good friends voices. Applejack. As I slowly open my eyes, fighting gravity to get them open, I see six other ponies huddled around me. They look worried. Not a good sign. I scan further around the room. This is not my home. This is my most hated place in all of Equestria: the Ponyville Hospital. I have only been here once before, after I had broken my wing. It was here where my Daring Do interests kicked itself into overdrive. I look at the ponies around me. On the left is Twilight, looking as she had when she forgot to send a letter to Celestia. Then Applejack. She seems sweat-ridden. I mean more sweat was on her skin than usual. Following her was Pinkie Pie. Her face seemed to have a forced smile that sends chills down my spine. Good god she shouldn't smile when she isn't happy. To her right is Rarity. Her eyes are red. Either she has severe allergies or she just got through sobbing. To her right, Fluttershy with a small pegasus on top of her whom I recognize as Scootaloo. This day could not get any worse. At the sight of my awakening, Twilight rushes out of the room. Why she did is beyond me. I inspect the damages on my body. My wings are broken, my legs covered in blood soaked bandages and a bandage around my chest. I am too afraid to look in the mirror. By the look of things, the only thing in my body left untouched is my arms. "What happened to me?" "You kind of......well......fell," replies Rarity. She seems to think that this conversation is awkward. Why would this be awkward? Maybe it is because I am the best flier in Equestria and I just fell. Sure. Lets go with that. "Ah! Miss Dash! You're awake!" A doctor with a voice as smooth as Rarity at the spa enters the room, followed by Twilight. "It is great to see you. It has been a while." "How long have I been out?" "About two weeks this coming Tuesday. I am surprised you asked that question." That voice. He seems so calm. I wonder why everyone else seems jittery. "What is wrong with me doc?" "Well...where to begin? Prior to the fall you had a case of Cludium, a rare illness that sends violent pains throughout a Pegasus and leads to long periods of sleeping. Fast forward to your event, you experienced another pain. This pain was so powerful that your entire body used all its energy to stop the pain. Thus, your wings froze and you fell out of the air. Now, as for what happened after the fall. Well, your wing is ruptured, minor thing though. Easily fixable." Thank Celestia! "You also had your back hooves split open and your tail is singed," he continues. "All those are relatively minor and happen to a lot of ponies" I look down at my tail. Holy Celestias holy horn. My tail, my rainbow tail. Black at the bottom and half its size. Then I realize he forgot something. "Why is there a giant bandage across my torso?" I sound angry, but don't mean to come off as it. Maybe you could say that I was frustrated about this whole thing. "Yes well......about that." His voice has gone from calm to shaky. This can't be good. "Well, upon your impact on the ground, your ribcage kind of......well.......pushed inward." "What does that mean? Can't you fix that?" Now it is my turn to be jittery. "Um....well.....see.....that is the problem. It is......well.......broken beyond repair," he replies uneasily. "What are you sayin' doc?" "Well, with your ribcage pushing into your heart and restricting blood flow, you have about......." His voice trails off. My heart sinks like a brick. No. This can't happen. I can't let this happen. I'm athletic and a healthy eater. No.....please don't let it be what I think means. Please Celestia no. "How much longer do I have?" I know this seems a little speedy, but from what I know, the faster you accept it, the easier everything is. Before I get an answer from the doctor, I can see everypony crying. I use all my willpower not to burst into tears. "You have about two days left on you." He walks out of the room slowly. The news doesn't sink in immediately. No. Please no. I can't be dying! I just can't! Not now! Not when things were going so great for me!!! I was gonna be a Wonderbolt! I was going to start a relationship with Fluttershy! All the ponies I love! What will they do without me! Then there is Tank! What about him? Thinking about Tank destroys my dam. Tears begin to move down my face. I feel a warm hoof on my back. It's Fluttershy's. It's at this moment, that my tears become heavier. What will happen to Fluttershy? She is the most timid of the group, and she is about to lose her closest friend. Then there is Scoots. She uses me as her idol. Now, shes losing her. I always thought of Scoots as a little sister. I can't imagine the pain that she must be feeling. Everyone in the room is silent. Nobody wants to speak a word. Each pony moves in closer to me, and hugs me. I feel some tears hitting my back. This only makes me cry harder. What makes the whole event horrible is the fact that even I, toughest Pegasus of Ponyville, have been reduced to tears. The sob fest is broken up when I feel a package dropped next to my pillow. The hug is disassembled and I pick it up. It's a white package with a red ribbon. All it says on it is To RD. From Fluttershy. I look up from the package. Fluttershy is no longer in the room. She must have left. "What is that Rainbow?" The first voice I have heard since the Doctors is owned by Twilight. "Don't know. It says it is from Fluttershy." "Well! What are you waiting for silly! Open it!" Pinkie Pie seems to be the only one who can actually sound happy. Another tears slivers down my face. I slowly open the package. First the bow is taken off, then the paper is taken off. I see an envelope and a package. I open the envelope to read the letter. =============================================================================================== Dear Rainbow Dash, This was going to be a gift to you when you became a Wonderbolt. In the envelope is something that you will remember very well. Something that should bring back fond memories of us. Anyways, open the box. I hope you enjoy it. Cost me half of my money. If you could, please respond with your decision as fast as possible. Fluttershy =============================================================================================== "Decision? What does that mean?" Rarity seems perplexed while Twilight is downright confused. "Don't know. Might as well open the package though." I slowly open the package and see a note. And below it, a rainbow ring. The note reads "Will you be my partner for life?" I stand shocked. I can't believe it. Fluttershy barely found out that I loved her, and now she wants to marry me. My obvious answer is yes. But I worry that my passing will put Fluttershy on the brink of depression. "What happened Rainbow?" Twilight, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie trot up to the package. Each read the note inside and each let out a gasp. "Rainbow! You're.........going to get married?" Rarity seems surprised. "Hang on Rarity. Dash, why on Earth would Fluttershy want to marry you at a time like this?" Twilight seems genuinely concerned about this. "If you pass away, what will that do to her?" "That is just what I am worried about. But if I could have had it any other way, I would. My heart is telling me yes while my brain is telling me no. Either choice I pick and Fluttershys heart is going to be broken. I don't want to be the one to put her into a sad mood the rest of her life!" "Well, think this through a moment. Do you really love her?" "Yes......I do" "Well, I want you to take a minute to think this through. What would keep both you and her happy?" "I'll do it." "Come again?" "I am going to marry her." "Are you sure Dash?" "Absolutely. If I am going to leave this Earth, then I want to leave this Earth knowing that my love has been tied forever. My friendship with her is more than magic. More than anything else. Fluttershy has been there since our days at Flight Camp in Cloudsdale. I will tie the knot with Fluttershy!" "Okay. Do you want to tell her?" "Yes! Call her back to here!" It takes about an hour for Fluttershy to head back in with Scoots on her back. "Umm....hey Rainbow...." "Fluttershy.....I got your package" "Did you like the gift?" "Like it? No. Love it. YES! I want to marry you Fluttershy!" Not as triumphant as I had played it out in my head, but hey! "You will?" "Absolutely! Fluttershy, I have loved you since the beginning of time and I want our love to last for all eternity!" "Alright Dashie!!" This is the loudest I've ever heard her speak. No joke. I also have never seen her so ecstatic. She looks like a yellow Pinkie Pie. Our stay together is interrupted with a nurse informing us that visiting hours were over. I give Fluttershy a quick kiss goodbye and lay back. My eyes slowly begin to droop and I fall asleep. I am in a field of animals. Lots of animals. Across it is Fluttershy, singing and lying there. I run towards her. As I move closer and closer, my speed increases. But, as I make it right to where she is, I am rudely awoken by a rich looking mare. She appears to be prissy and, well, snobbish. "Miss Dash, if I may have a word with you." "Buzz off lady. I was having a nice dream here." "So kind. I am your assigned attorney and have been asked to tell you that you don't have a will. If you do not have one before that unfortunate day arrives, it all goes to charity. Got it?" She doesn't seem to like me. "Oh....right.....that......ummm.....yes mam." "Good. Now here is a piece of paper. Get going." And with that, she walks out of the room. I've honestly not given much thought about my upcoming demise, but now I am forced to. I have a lot of things and don't know what to do with them. For some reason, my scumbag brain decides to imagine all six of us friends together, smiling and happy-go-lucky. And here come the tears. My friends........all gone.......I will never see them again.........none of them. I slowly trudge through my will, thinking hard as to what goes where. After three painstaking hours, a twisted hand, and a completed will, I decide it is time to hit the hay. I turn out the lights and lay down. My body, however, has different plans. I stay awake for a good hour thinking about everybody else's life without me. It only takes this to set me off. It is then, that I cry myself to sleep. Maybe tomorrow will be a good day. One that will turn the rest of my life around. More SurprisesI awake to the sound of the heart monitor having a steady beep....beep....beep. My eyes slowly open, and when I say slowly, I mean slowly, to the view of my room. I wipe my eyes with my only working body part, my hoof. I look down upon my cast. It has now turned a disgusting deep maroon. I look down at my chest....even worse of a sight. I look for my will laying on the nightstand, but to my surprise, it's gone. The attorney pony must have taken it. Oh well... I gaze up at the clock. 1:45. I slept for 14 hours. Normally, I'd be mad at myself, but I just don't have the energy to do it. My entire body is hurting, getting worse and worse by the minute. As I begin to lay my head back down, I notice a bright cyan package next to my bed that has a rainbow bow on it. I pick it up slowly. It feels light on my already twisted hoof from last night. I inspect all aspects of it. I notice some beautiful handwriting written on the side in red letters. It reads "To the best Flier in All of Equestria. While I agree with this statement, I can't help but wonder who sent this to me. I open the package with my hoof as delicately as possible. My hand shakes as I undo the bow and rip the paper off. After going through a mountain of tissue paper inside, some blue cloth falls out. Upon closer inspection, I see a bit of lightning bolts around the back hoof holes. The heart monitor increases its tempo rapidly. This is a Wonderbolts uniform. Why do I have a Wonderbolts uniform? I crashed on my audition. Spitfire would not be dense enough to send me a Wonderbolts uniform. They only take the best of the best. If I was the best of the other ponies who auditioned, they must have all been really horrible. I hear my room door open and quickly stuff the uniform under my bedpan. In walks Scootaloo followed by my five other friends. They all seem worried, but I brush this off as just nerves. Scoots jumps up onto my bed with a certain amount of energy not unlike that of Pinkies. "Heya Dash!" Her smile. The eagerness in it is just enough to put a smile on my face. "Hey Scoots," I get out. My throat has begun to be set on fire. I instantly go into a coughing fit and hack up some saliva. Not exactly what I like to see when I wake up. "Guess what Dash? I learned a new trick today! I have to show it to you when you get better!" "Heh...maybe one day you'll be as awesome as me!" I know. I'm getting the little ones hopes up. I need to come to terms with my time left on Equestria. This comment puts even more energy into her. A pang of emotions goes through me. I realize that this is the last time that I will see my friends. I need to get everything out now, while avoiding any tears that will come. My eyes explode in tears. So much for avoiding tears. I feel each pony come closer to me and all their arms around me. This only makes me cry harder. "I-I-I'm g-g-going-g to m-miss you guys s-so much!" I manage to get these words out through my sobs. The realization of everything comes to me. I will never get to see any of my friends other accomplishments. I'll never see Scoots new tricks. My birthday party from Pinkie Pie in a couple of days. I'll never see Applejack win every event at the Equestrian Rodeo, nor be Rarity's fashion model. And Fluttershy. I want to start a life with her so bad, but I realize I won't be with her for long. Why does it have to be me? Why? Of all the times in the world?! "It's okay Dash," says a lighthearted voice that comes from who else but Fluttershy. "You'll get out of this" This only makes my coughing worse. I quickly begin to choke on my own saliva as it gets pushed up from my throat. I hear Twilight running out of the room yelling for the nurse. My coughing becomes so uncontrollable, that my choking knocks me out. =============================================================================================== I awake to my friends all around me. From the looks of my clock, I've been out for about an hour. I feel worse than ever. I have sweat running from my head, I can barely breathe, and to boot, my casts on my back hooves are drenched in blood. I try to lift up my head, but I realize that I can't move any part of my body but my eyes. "She's awake," whispers Fluttershy. There is that voice again. I begin to sob again. Fluttershy flutters over to me and puts a hoof on my heart. "Dash? Umm....Dash?" I can't stop crying. I feel like such a loser, crying in front of my friends. "Dash!" Fluttershy shoves a hoof in my mouth to stop my crying. "Dash, listen to me." I nod to let her know I'm listening. "I want you to know, that no matter what happens, you will always be with us." "B-b-but if I.....ya know.........die then-" "You'll still be with us," she replies, cutting me off. "B-b-" "Shhh..." She attempts to calm me down. I feel a sense of lost hope from all this. The last time....ever. The last time I will ever see them again. "You guys?" I barely can wheeze this out. "I am so sorry about all the heartache I have caused you guys.......I probably ruined all your lives. I know I come off as someone who is confident all the time, but the truth is............I never was. I was always scared throughout my life. I worried I would never make any friends. That is why I took such a liking to Fluttershy! She actually understood me! And we were about to start a life together! And now, well, I'm putting everyone into a state of depression!" "Shhh.....Rainbow? There is something I want to tell you......" "What?" She looks intently into my eyes. "I have a surprise for you......" She walks out of the room. I can't help but feel confused. What? She has been so mysterious the past two days. I sit there awkwardly with my friends looking, no staring, at the door. Fluttershy comes back in with two other ponies who follow. I see Spitfire first, my heart gives a jump, and following her is the always beautiful Princess Celestia. I stare dumbfounded. "Wha-?" "Are we ready to get this wedding started or what?" inquires Celestia. "Uhhh...." "Of course Princess!" Fluttershy turns to me. "I got the princess to have our wedding here, before our time together is up." "Fl-u-uttershy.....I can't believe this........thank you so much!" I am in sheer shock. I am getting my lifelong soul mate......right before I die.......I can't help it. The tears come again...... Celestia begins speaking. "Ladies and Gentlecolts....we are gathered to celebrate the union of Fluttershy and the always loyal Rainbow Dash......." I know I should be listening, but my eyes are all on Fluttershy, looking as beautiful as ever...... I must have been staring at her for about half an hour when I hear the words "the couple has written their own vows and wish to share them with one another!" Uh oh....I don't have any vows......my only hope is to speak from my crushed heart. "Rainbow Dash. Ever since you caused me to get my cutie mark, I knew we would be together forever. Our friendship has known no bounds and has expanded into love. No matter what other ponies think of us, I know we will always be together. Your personality is what makes my life complete. Your tomboyish attitude always makes even the darkest clouds to disappear. I love you Rainbow Dash.....I always will." The tears are back. Not just from me, but everyone in the room......even Spitfire is crying. "And now, Miss Dash...." says the tear-ridden Celestia. "Fluttershy......." my heart feels warm all over. "My love for you has always been a secret to myself. Seeing you with all those animals always led me to make sure it was a sunny day for you. There is nothing I wouldn't do for you. You gave me Tank, no matter how many times I refused, you knew me more than I knew myself. Fluttershy......I can't believe I'm being this sappy but.........I love you......with all my heart........and nothing can break that bond........." I know I'm not good at this kind of stuff, but hey! "Very well.......do you Fluttershy, take Rainbow Dash to be your mare?" "Of course I do" "And do you Rainbow Dash, take-" My ribs feel like their about to crush my veins. I feel myself getting extremely light headed. The heart monitor near me begins to rapidly beep. No.....not now......please not now......of all the times....... "I-I-I-I-I do......" I manage to get this out before I can think no more. Epilogue: The Gifts of LifeEight ponies walk to one destination. They appear to be crying. Everyone in Ponyville knows why. Leading the line is Twilight Sparkle, her head down, tears dripping from her eyes. Following her is Pinkie Pie, carrying a cake, with a forced smile on her face. Third is Applejack, who just seems flat out depressed. She shows no tears, but her face is void of any smiles. Following her is Scootaloo, the smallest of them. She is fluttering in the air, trying to get her spirits up. She thought losing Dash was bad enough, but what was worse......she had a surprise for her after her passing....she had gotten her cutie mark. She was so excited to show her one morning but then realized she was already gone. The cutie marked show a scooter moving, and in the trail of it, a rainbow similar to the one on Dashs flank. Next up was Princess Celestia, who nobody had ever seen cry before. Today, she was sobbing. It only made the mood worse. After her was Spitfire, who seemed absolutely devastated. She lost all aura of strength that she showed every day. Sixth was Rarity. She looked the worst......eyes red with grief.....followed by a comforting Spike. Last was Fluttershy. She seemed content. Why was beyond everybody. She should be the one feeling the worst. They arrive at a field where a gravestone lies. Celestia walks in front of the gravestone and somberly speaks. "We are gathered to celebrate the life of Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash was a loyal friend and an excellent flier. Her Sonic Rainboom brought smiles to everyone. She portrayed exuberance, love, and, as she would put it, awesomeness. Rainbow Dash brought a cheerful smile to anyone's face. Her buoyancy will always be remembered. As a gift to Rainbow Dash for her birthday, I leave her this...the element of loyalty. This band helped defeat darkness and showed what true friendship can bring. Rainbow Dash....we miss you dearly." Twilight, moved by the princesses words, steps up. "I thought Rainbow Dash was crazy when I first met her. And I was right. But she gave me joy that no other pony has ever given me. No matter how many times she smashed the library, she still made me smile. She pushed the dark clouds out of my way and showed me what true loyalty is. I give Rainbow Dash this, my copy of Daring Do and the Last Escape. Signed by the author herself last night. She sets the book down on Rainbows grave. Rainbow, I hope you are making Rainbows in the sky." Applejack steps up now. "Rainbow was a good competitor. She always gave me a challenge. While she did cheat in the Running of the Leaves, I see her as an excellent adversary. I cannot believe I am saying this but, she was a better athlete than me. Deep down in ma heart I knew it. I just never had the guts ta say it. I will miss Rainbow Dash and our competitions. To celebrate her birthday, I am going to give her this." She takes out a bottle. "In this, lies my cider. She always had issues getting it. So I made a special batch for Dash. Goodbye Dash." Scootaloo and Fluttershy are sobbing together. Next to step up was Spitfire. "In all my years as a Wonderbolt, I had never seen any Pegasi like Rainbow Dash. Bravery, loyalty....insanity. She was the messiah of the Wonderbolts. I will always dream of one day being as good of a flier as Dash.....I miss you Dash.....and welcome to the Wonderbolts." She sets down a uniform on the grave. Pinkie Pie sets down a cake on the grave. The cake reads Happy 31st Birthday Dashie! A rainbow goes across the top. Each pony engages in singing happy birthday, a tradition for Pinkie Pie. The last three ponies step up and drop off their gifts. From Spike, a giant ruby. From Rarity, the gown that was worn by Rainbow Dash at the Grand Galloping Gala. And lastly, from Mrs. Fluttershy Dash, an album. Inside the album are pictures of the gang with Rainbow Dash. As each pony said their final goodbyes, rain began to fall, as if Dash had done that for everyone to know that she was watching. Each pony then walked over to the library to read Dash's will. =============================================================================================== The Last Will and Testament of Rainbow Dash To Twilight Sparkle Hey Egghead! How is it going! I miss you so much! You always gave me hope when you weren't, you know, reading. I have decided to give you my entire Daring Do collection. Thank you for bringing in so much adventure into my life. This series made me realize how much I was missing out on! I miss you so much and hope you eventually become a princess! To Applejack Hiya pardner! I know we always butted heads over competition, but I want you to know.....I had fun! Competing with you kept me fresh at the Wonderbolt Academy and if it wasn't for you, I don't think I could ever run again. From me, I give you my headgear that I won after winning the Young Fliers Competition in Cloudsdale. Thank you for keeping my exercise interesting. To Rarity I know I messed up your clothing a lot.....but you made me happy. When I was an absolute flank, you remained cool. About 20 percent cooler I might add. I wish to thank you for not making me look like an idiot at the Grand Galloping Gala.....for you.......this was hardest of all........a piece of my mane, so that you may use it in an outfit that will be 40 percent cooler!! To Pinkie Pie Hey Party Animal! Your parties kinda made me feel sleepy all the time, but I loved them nonetheless. If there was anything I could have done to be as good of a partier as you.....well.....that is not possible. For you......I give you my last package of rainbow balloons. May you have the best party ever. To Scootaloo Sorry about not keeping my promises about teaching you how to fly....I really wanted to help but I was always busy. For my number one fan, I give you my most prized possession. I leave you two tickets to the Wonderbolts show in Ponyville. I was going to surprise you with them on your birthday, but I figured, hey, you need a new person to go. Keep flyin kid. I'll be watching you.... PS I also leave you my sunglasses. If you're going to be as awesome and cool as me, you need to dress the part too! Love ya squirt, and soar on! Fluttershy You brought me all the joy in the world. I am excited to start my life together with you. I leave you my entire estate and financial account. I also leave you with my best memory of you. My tortoise Tank. You gave me Tank when I refused to allow for him to be near me. Tank showed me what my true element of harmony was meant to be. Without Tank, my afternoons would have been extremely lonely. Thank you Fluttershy, for all you have given me. I am looking forward to our future life. No pony had a dry eye. Everyone had remembered the fondest memories with Dash. The rain outside slowly came to a close. Each walked out to head home only to be looking up at the sky in astonishment. A single rainbow lie there, beckoning them. Before Fluttershy headed home, she stopped by Dash's grave. It read "HERE LIES RAINBOW DASH: THE BEST FLIER IN ALL OF EQUESTRIA" Fluttershy sighed and added one more thing. A Faithful, Loyal and Loving Friend. May you bring Rainbows to the skies forever THE END
Dashie the UnpreparedI awake with a start. My heart is pounding and my body is drenched in sweat. Those bucking nightmares again! I have had these horrid nightmares for the past week now and they don't show signs of letting up. They're always the same: me flying through the clouds attempting a Sonic Rainboom and at some point it all goes horribly wrong. I shrug it off like I always do in the morning and check my calendar, a gift from the egghead Twilight. She gave it to me for Hearths Warming Day last year. She said it would help me be more organized. Even though I don't like to admit it, it has saved me a few times. As I look into it I instantly see something that makes my heart plummet: The auditions for the Wonderbolts are in two days. I had completely forgotten about the whole audition! I don't even have a routine to perform for the audition! I quickly down my breakfast and sprint out the door of my home. First thought that came into my mind was who to go to for help. I could ask AJ. Nah, too busy with Cider Season coming up soon. What about Pinkie Pie? No, she had to take care of the Cakes children today. Then it hits me. FLUTTERSHY! How could I forget her. She could probably help me out! I sprint flied towards my favorite home to visit. Even though I had some urgency in having Fluttershy answer the door when I rang it, I couldn't help but admire Fluttershy's love for animals. I looked down at the animals that were haphazardly moving about, each unique in its own approach. As the door opens my heart starts to skip a few beats. I swear to Celestia, this happens everytime I see Fluttershy. I sometimes may even go as far as choking up. Focus Dash! You got Wonderbolts Auditions to worry about!. The door creaks open slowly. A yellow mare with beautiful, smooth and pink hair. She was so beautiful in her cottage. Sweet Celestia is she beautiful. She always has been a something of a secret crush of mine. While many may say that we are polar opposites, with the only thing being in common was that we were both Pegasi. But there was something about her that I could never pinpoint. Something different. Maybe it was her smooth silk voice, or her well beautiful sunny skin. Maybe I had a thing for animals. I don't know. Her voice actually took me by surprise. "Hello?" Fluttershy always answers in the same soft, soothing voice. "Errr....hi Fluttershy," I reply. I feel the sweat beginning to form on my brim. My heart seems to have rented itself out to butterflies, the way it felt. Then there was her eyes. Her beautiful green as pine eyes. They hypnotised me. They sent me into a trance. Heck if Fluttershy wanted me to do anything for her right about now, I probably would just to be allowed to stare longer into her eyes. There was not a more beautiful site for me. It seems that she is the one to bring color to my Rainbow. Now why I have a crush on Fluttershy is baffling me. Me! The toughest pony in all of Ponyville. Falling for the sappiness of love! Only Fluttershy could do this to me! Only she could actually make me feel like I'm losing my mind. It all started back in Flight School. Fluttershy was the only friend I truly had in Cloudsdale. Everyone else, well, they hated me. Maybe it was my speed. Maybe my color. I have no idea. All I know is that Fluttershy turns me into a modern Juliet. It takes a moment to realize that Fluttershy is still standing at the door. "Oh! Umm.....," Stop it! This sweat is not helping my image. "I came to ask you a favor" "Oh....umm." She seems stunned. "Well, sure. What do you need me to do? "Well, I've been hiding this for the past couple of weeks and.....well...." Why does she make me like this? Am I insane? "I am, err, going to be auditioning for the Wonderbolts in two days and I need some assistance." "You want me to cheer again? I don't th-" "No! I need you to be my instructor. Someone who can help me out. I don't exactly have a routine at all." I smile sheepishly at this comment. "Why not, Dash?" Honestly, I'd rather not say. I have to keep the past couple of weeks under wraps. So I do something that will probably haunt me. I lie. "Eh....I was busy working on the weather in Ponyville" "Oh...um...ok" "Anyway, I need your help in making me a routine" "Why don't you use the one from the Young Fliers Competition?" "No! The Wonderbolts are going to need something fresh! They already know my routine from then, even though they were unconscious, and I doubt that I'll stick out if I do the same thing. It didn't matter than anyways, seeing as everyone got a wing boner for Rarity. Anyway, yyou can help me make fresh new material! You game?" "Ummm.....well....I'm flattered that you asked, but um..." " Please?" I know what you are thinking. How could I, the greatest flier in all of Equestria, be reduced to asking the slowest pony to ever walk the face of the earth for help in a Wonderbolts audition? Truth is, not even I could answer this question. It could have something to do with her being my crush. Whatever. "Oh.....er....ummm..." Why does she have to be so cute? "Ummm.....I can try to do-" "YEA" I jump into the air and realize, that may have been a little over the top. I instantly rush down and attempt to regain my composure. "Er.....thanks I guess" "Oh ummm.....okay. Um....when do you want to meet?" "How about below my house in about two hours?" "Er....okay" "Okay!" I launched into the air and before I was off shouted, "see ya soon Fluttershy!" Well, two hours to prepare until practice. I could fix my hair, but then again, I'm not Rarity. Well, off to home. Now the question is if I will ever tell Fluttershy how I truly feel. I can't go on like this, what with imagining what could be. I fly through the air and let my problems fly through the air and out of my mind.
The Surprise and the AuditionUsually I look forward to practices. Not today though. I feel like my love for Fluttershy will overpower my love for flying. I may not get anything done. I may not even get into the Wonderbolts. But what I really want, more than being captain of the Wonderbolts, was to tell my feelings to Fluttershy. I have always held myself back, but today, no, today will be different. I can do this. This will be the day I go out with Fluttershy! I hope that she will feel the same way. It was at that moment that a horrifying thought crossed my mind. What if Fluttershy was one who would not prefer to, well, have a relationship with a mare. What if she hates me after I tell her? Sweet Celestia, my life sucks! I can choose to keep my friendship with Fluttershy but feel nervous around her all the time, or I can risk throwing it away to show my feelings. I look to my nightstand hoping for some inspiration. There lies my calendar, and Tank, lazing around like I normally would. I decide to trot slowly to my front door and wait in the field below. Its 1:30. Still have 30 minutes until Fluttershy will show. Might as well warm up. My warmup is sort of a ritual for me by now. I always start by flying through the row of trees below my house at high speeds. The wind, it feels excellent on my mane. This is what stress relief feels like. I love it. Now if only I could fly when I tell Fluttershy how I feel. Yes. I will tell her. Better to have tried it than never at all. I keep my mind hooked on this until a sharp pain runs through my right wing. It felt as if a needle was shoved through my vain. I probably dropped a good fifteen feet before I regain my composure. I attempt to soar up into the air but, very quickly, I stop myself. I notice a sillouhette off in the distance. Fluttershy. As if on queue, my heart rate rises, and the persperation begins. I shoot downward to the ground to greet the pink-maned mare. She appears to be as nervous as me. Doubt it. She is not the one about to risk her entire friendship only to get out her own selfish desires. "Er....ba...duh..." What the buck brain? Of all the times! "Er....hey Flu-u-ttershy!" I can barely get out these words when another pain rushes through me. Not as bad as the last, but still shocking nonetheless. "Um...hey Rainbow," she replies. I swear, her voice will be the death of my "coolness" personality. "Um...ah....want to start?" "Er.....sure...but, um, can we wait a sec? I need to tell you something." Pretty sure if Dr. Whooves saw my blood pressure right now, I'd be the one taking care of him. "Er....um....so.....ah......there is something that's been eating at me for the past couple of years." Past couple of years my hoof! "Um....wait Rainbow. I think I know where this is going. Truth is, I wanted to tell you something too." "Um...ah...okay. What is it?" "I......I........I......." She seems as nervous as me! "I......have a crush on you." "Say wha-?" She quickly covers her mouth and runs away as fast as she could. Before I can grasp the what just happened, another pain surges through my body much worse than the last. The pain becomes quickly too much, and I pass out. ============ "WAKE UP SLEEPY DASH!!!!" I awake with a start, looking around as to what is the source of all the commotion. As I look slightly to my left, I see Pinkie Pie being......well, Pinkie Pie. "YOU'RE GOING TO BE LATE!!!!" "Eh? Late for what?" My voice is still groggy but at least I can still comprehend what is going on. "WELL YOUR WONDERBOLTS AUDITIONS SILLY WILLY BILLY!" SHIT! How long have I been sleeping?? I don't have a routine at all! Why didn't Fluttershy wake me any sooner? Is she worried about what happened at practice? What will my routine be? What should I do? "Where is Fluttershy?" I ask, trying my best sound as calm and collected as possible. "They are all at the stadium! Ready to cheer you on along with Scootaloo and ALL OF PONYVILLE!!!!" Great. Everyone is there. What if I screw up? What if Spitfire just sits there and laughs as I do miserably. Well.....might as well get up. Not showing up, I'll be sure to not get in. I just need a routine. Just then, a memory pops into my head. When I went to go see Fluttershy, she asked if I could do my old routine. I guess I could try it. I mean, they were passed out after all. And maybe, just maybe, the Sonic Rainboom will be enough to convince them that I am perfect for the Wonderbolts. Have to try. "How much time do I have?" I ask. "NOW!!! YOU ARE FUNNY DASHIE!!!" Well this is shaping up to be a great day. I fly out the window as fast as I can and rush to Cloudsdale. ============ "WELCOME LADIES AND GENTLEMAN TO THE AUDITIONS FOR THE WONDERBOLTS!!! AN ELITE SQUAD NEEDS A NEW MEMBER AND THESE 5 PEGASI WHO HAVE SHOWN THEIR WORTH ARE READY TO SHOW THEIR BEST MOVES!!!" I stand in a line next to the other four ponies. I don't recognize any of them, but what I do notice is who is in the crowd. Shit. Sitting in the middle is every pony I know. To the right of the stands, my father. I continue to search, and quickly spot Scootaloo jumping up and down, even as high as Pinkie Pie. Seeing this is just enough to crack a quick snicker. But there was no time for that, as I looked up just one row. Fluttershy. She is covering her face so I will not notice her, but I know it is her. How can you mistake it? "LET CONTESTANT NUMBER 1 STEP FORWARD!!!" The announcer booms his voice to let everypony auditioning to go to the tent and wait for our number. On the bright side, I am number 5. Maybe that will make my show seem like a finale. As soon as I hear the bell that tells me that the first contestant has started, the pains return. Nagging at my every sense. Let me just tell you that this is not my idea of exciting. I hear oohs and aahs from the crowd, but my pain is what is at the top of my mind. ================================================================================= "CONTESTANT 5!!! LAST BUT NOT LEAST MS. RAINBOW DASH!!!!" Shit. I get up from where I was sitting and head to the entrance to the tent. While I can feel the pains still in my body, it doesn't compare to my anxiety. I gaze a quick peek outside the tent. I see the judges booth, Spitfire in the center, looking as authoritative as ever. The bell catches my attention. I have five minutes to pull off the best routine I can. I fly upwards as fast as possible. Once I get to my preferred height, I shoot myself downwards, gaining speed. I flatten myself out at the floor of the stadium, well cloud really, and fly around a set of clouds I asked to be set up. I graze through each one, gracefully, and full of style! My nerves are going away, but the pain is coming in worse than ever. I bite my lip as hard as I can to avoid Spitfire seeing any tears. I fly upwards again and head to a nearby cloud. I fly as fast as I can around it in order to get it moving. At first, it doesn't move, causing me to begin freaking out. But to my relief, it slowly starts in course, until it eventually goes so fast that I kick it away. Now for the big guns! Then comes the piercing pain again, but this time it's unlike all the others. The pain is horrific. To make matters worse, this is the first pain that starts in my wings. I have to keep going. Spitfire is looking up, slightly angry looking. Gotta hurry! I fly straight up, as fast as I possible can go, until I see nothing below me. I stop, ready myself, all while ignoring the pain. I fly downwards, my speed increasing. I eventually get enough speed to the point where my eyelids and mouth can't keep up. I inch closer and closer to getting the Rainboom started. Then, another pain, my wings starting it again. I have to ignore it! So close to the Sonic Rainboom! Go go go! Then, all so suddenly, a rainbow starts drifting out from my tail. Yes!! I did it! I feel like celebrating but something else is at hand. My wings aren't to pleased. Without warning, my heart begins to pound like a jackhammer, stabbing me each beat. Then another pain. I try to get out of the Rainboom but I am going too fast. The pain eventually becomes so unbearable, so gutwrenching, that I black out, only to hear one phrase out of Scootaloo, cheering louder than anyone. "YAY DASH!!!!! I TOLD YOU SHE WAS INVINCIBLE!!!!!!"
Fluttershys Unexpected Message"Is she gonna be okay doc? She don't look too good....." I wake up slowly, or maybe forcibly is the correct term, to the sound of one of my good friends voices. Applejack. As I slowly open my eyes, fighting gravity to get them open, I see six other ponies huddled around me. They look worried. Not a good sign. I scan further around the room. This is not my home. This is my most hated place in all of Equestria: the Ponyville Hospital. I have only been here once before, after I had broken my wing. It was here where my Daring Do interests kicked itself into overdrive. I look at the ponies around me. On the left is Twilight, looking as she had when she forgot to send a letter to Celestia. Then Applejack. She seems sweat-ridden. I mean more sweat was on her skin than usual. Following her was Pinkie Pie. Her face seemed to have a forced smile that sends chills down my spine. Good god she shouldn't smile when she isn't happy. To her right is Rarity. Her eyes are red. Either she has severe allergies or she just got through sobbing. To her right, Fluttershy with a small pegasus on top of her whom I recognize as Scootaloo. This day could not get any worse. At the sight of my awakening, Twilight rushes out of the room. Why she did is beyond me. I inspect the damages on my body. My wings are broken, my legs covered in blood soaked bandages and a bandage around my chest. I am too afraid to look in the mirror. By the look of things, the only thing in my body left untouched is my arms. "What happened to me?" "You kind of......well......fell," replies Rarity. She seems to think that this conversation is awkward. Why would this be awkward? Maybe it is because I am the best flier in Equestria and I just fell. Sure. Lets go with that. "Ah! Miss Dash! You're awake!" A doctor with a voice as smooth as Rarity at the spa enters the room, followed by Twilight. "It is great to see you. It has been a while." "How long have I been out?" "About two weeks this coming Tuesday. I am surprised you asked that question." That voice. He seems so calm. I wonder why everyone else seems jittery. "What is wrong with me doc?" "Well...where to begin? Prior to the fall you had a case of Cludium, a rare illness that sends violent pains throughout a Pegasus and leads to long periods of sleeping. Fast forward to your event, you experienced another pain. This pain was so powerful that your entire body used all its energy to stop the pain. Thus, your wings froze and you fell out of the air. Now, as for what happened after the fall. Well, your wing is ruptured, minor thing though. Easily fixable." Thank Celestia! "You also had your back hooves split open and your tail is singed," he continues. "All those are relatively minor and happen to a lot of ponies" I look down at my tail. Holy Celestias holy horn. My tail, my rainbow tail. Black at the bottom and half its size. Then I realize he forgot something. "Why is there a giant bandage across my torso?" I sound angry, but don't mean to come off as it. Maybe you could say that I was frustrated about this whole thing. "Yes well......about that." His voice has gone from calm to shaky. This can't be good. "Well, upon your impact on the ground, your ribcage kind of......well.......pushed inward." "What does that mean? Can't you fix that?" Now it is my turn to be jittery. "Um....well.....see.....that is the problem. It is......well.......broken beyond repair," he replies uneasily. "What are you sayin' doc?" "Well, with your ribcage pushing into your heart and restricting blood flow, you have about......." His voice trails off. My heart sinks like a brick. No. This can't happen. I can't let this happen. I'm athletic and a healthy eater. No.....please don't let it be what I think means. Please Celestia no. "How much longer do I have?" I know this seems a little speedy, but from what I know, the faster you accept it, the easier everything is. Before I get an answer from the doctor, I can see everypony crying. I use all my willpower not to burst into tears. "You have about two days left on you." He walks out of the room slowly. The news doesn't sink in immediately. No. Please no. I can't be dying! I just can't! Not now! Not when things were going so great for me!!! I was gonna be a Wonderbolt! I was going to start a relationship with Fluttershy! All the ponies I love! What will they do without me! Then there is Tank! What about him? Thinking about Tank destroys my dam. Tears begin to move down my face. I feel a warm hoof on my back. It's Fluttershy's. It's at this moment, that my tears become heavier. What will happen to Fluttershy? She is the most timid of the group, and she is about to lose her closest friend. Then there is Scoots. She uses me as her idol. Now, shes losing her. I always thought of Scoots as a little sister. I can't imagine the pain that she must be feeling. Everyone in the room is silent. Nobody wants to speak a word. Each pony moves in closer to me, and hugs me. I feel some tears hitting my back. This only makes me cry harder. What makes the whole event horrible is the fact that even I, toughest Pegasus of Ponyville, have been reduced to tears. The sob fest is broken up when I feel a package dropped next to my pillow. The hug is disassembled and I pick it up. It's a white package with a red ribbon. All it says on it is To RD. From Fluttershy. I look up from the package. Fluttershy is no longer in the room. She must have left. "What is that Rainbow?" The first voice I have heard since the Doctors is owned by Twilight. "Don't know. It says it is from Fluttershy." "Well! What are you waiting for silly! Open it!" Pinkie Pie seems to be the only one who can actually sound happy. Another tears slivers down my face. I slowly open the package. First the bow is taken off, then the paper is taken off. I see an envelope and a package. I open the envelope to read the letter. =============================================================================================== Dear Rainbow Dash, This was going to be a gift to you when you became a Wonderbolt. In the envelope is something that you will remember very well. Something that should bring back fond memories of us. Anyways, open the box. I hope you enjoy it. Cost me half of my money. If you could, please respond with your decision as fast as possible. Fluttershy =============================================================================================== "Decision? What does that mean?" Rarity seems perplexed while Twilight is downright confused. "Don't know. Might as well open the package though." I slowly open the package and see a note. And below it, a rainbow ring. The note reads "Will you be my partner for life?" I stand shocked. I can't believe it. Fluttershy barely found out that I loved her, and now she wants to marry me. My obvious answer is yes. But I worry that my passing will put Fluttershy on the brink of depression. "What happened Rainbow?" Twilight, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie trot up to the package. Each read the note inside and each let out a gasp. "Rainbow! You're.........going to get married?" Rarity seems surprised. "Hang on Rarity. Dash, why on Earth would Fluttershy want to marry you at a time like this?" Twilight seems genuinely concerned about this. "If you pass away, what will that do to her?" "That is just what I am worried about. But if I could have had it any other way, I would. My heart is telling me yes while my brain is telling me no. Either choice I pick and Fluttershys heart is going to be broken. I don't want to be the one to put her into a sad mood the rest of her life!" "Well, think this through a moment. Do you really love her?" "Yes......I do" "Well, I want you to take a minute to think this through. What would keep both you and her happy?" "I'll do it." "Come again?" "I am going to marry her." "Are you sure Dash?" "Absolutely. If I am going to leave this Earth, then I want to leave this Earth knowing that my love has been tied forever. My friendship with her is more than magic. More than anything else. Fluttershy has been there since our days at Flight Camp in Cloudsdale. I will tie the knot with Fluttershy!" "Okay. Do you want to tell her?" "Yes! Call her back to here!" It takes about an hour for Fluttershy to head back in with Scoots on her back. "Umm....hey Rainbow...." "Fluttershy.....I got your package" "Did you like the gift?" "Like it? No. Love it. YES! I want to marry you Fluttershy!" Not as triumphant as I had played it out in my head, but hey! "You will?" "Absolutely! Fluttershy, I have loved you since the beginning of time and I want our love to last for all eternity!" "Alright Dashie!!" This is the loudest I've ever heard her speak. No joke. I also have never seen her so ecstatic. She looks like a yellow Pinkie Pie. Our stay together is interrupted with a nurse informing us that visiting hours were over. I give Fluttershy a quick kiss goodbye and lay back. My eyes slowly begin to droop and I fall asleep. I am in a field of animals. Lots of animals. Across it is Fluttershy, singing and lying there. I run towards her. As I move closer and closer, my speed increases. But, as I make it right to where she is, I am rudely awoken by a rich looking mare. She appears to be prissy and, well, snobbish. "Miss Dash, if I may have a word with you." "Buzz off lady. I was having a nice dream here." "So kind. I am your assigned attorney and have been asked to tell you that you don't have a will. If you do not have one before that unfortunate day arrives, it all goes to charity. Got it?" She doesn't seem to like me. "Oh....right.....that......ummm.....yes mam." "Good. Now here is a piece of paper. Get going." And with that, she walks out of the room. I've honestly not given much thought about my upcoming demise, but now I am forced to. I have a lot of things and don't know what to do with them. For some reason, my scumbag brain decides to imagine all six of us friends together, smiling and happy-go-lucky. And here come the tears. My friends........all gone.......I will never see them again.........none of them. I slowly trudge through my will, thinking hard as to what goes where. After three painstaking hours, a twisted hand, and a completed will, I decide it is time to hit the hay. I turn out the lights and lay down. My body, however, has different plans. I stay awake for a good hour thinking about everybody else's life without me. It only takes this to set me off. It is then, that I cry myself to sleep. Maybe tomorrow will be a good day. One that will turn the rest of my life around.
More SurprisesI awake to the sound of the heart monitor having a steady beep....beep....beep. My eyes slowly open, and when I say slowly, I mean slowly, to the view of my room. I wipe my eyes with my only working body part, my hoof. I look down upon my cast. It has now turned a disgusting deep maroon. I look down at my chest....even worse of a sight. I look for my will laying on the nightstand, but to my surprise, it's gone. The attorney pony must have taken it. Oh well... I gaze up at the clock. 1:45. I slept for 14 hours. Normally, I'd be mad at myself, but I just don't have the energy to do it. My entire body is hurting, getting worse and worse by the minute. As I begin to lay my head back down, I notice a bright cyan package next to my bed that has a rainbow bow on it. I pick it up slowly. It feels light on my already twisted hoof from last night. I inspect all aspects of it. I notice some beautiful handwriting written on the side in red letters. It reads "To the best Flier in All of Equestria. While I agree with this statement, I can't help but wonder who sent this to me. I open the package with my hoof as delicately as possible. My hand shakes as I undo the bow and rip the paper off. After going through a mountain of tissue paper inside, some blue cloth falls out. Upon closer inspection, I see a bit of lightning bolts around the back hoof holes. The heart monitor increases its tempo rapidly. This is a Wonderbolts uniform. Why do I have a Wonderbolts uniform? I crashed on my audition. Spitfire would not be dense enough to send me a Wonderbolts uniform. They only take the best of the best. If I was the best of the other ponies who auditioned, they must have all been really horrible. I hear my room door open and quickly stuff the uniform under my bedpan. In walks Scootaloo followed by my five other friends. They all seem worried, but I brush this off as just nerves. Scoots jumps up onto my bed with a certain amount of energy not unlike that of Pinkies. "Heya Dash!" Her smile. The eagerness in it is just enough to put a smile on my face. "Hey Scoots," I get out. My throat has begun to be set on fire. I instantly go into a coughing fit and hack up some saliva. Not exactly what I like to see when I wake up. "Guess what Dash? I learned a new trick today! I have to show it to you when you get better!" "Heh...maybe one day you'll be as awesome as me!" I know. I'm getting the little ones hopes up. I need to come to terms with my time left on Equestria. This comment puts even more energy into her. A pang of emotions goes through me. I realize that this is the last time that I will see my friends. I need to get everything out now, while avoiding any tears that will come. My eyes explode in tears. So much for avoiding tears. I feel each pony come closer to me and all their arms around me. This only makes me cry harder. "I-I-I'm g-g-going-g to m-miss you guys s-so much!" I manage to get these words out through my sobs. The realization of everything comes to me. I will never get to see any of my friends other accomplishments. I'll never see Scoots new tricks. My birthday party from Pinkie Pie in a couple of days. I'll never see Applejack win every event at the Equestrian Rodeo, nor be Rarity's fashion model. And Fluttershy. I want to start a life with her so bad, but I realize I won't be with her for long. Why does it have to be me? Why? Of all the times in the world?! "It's okay Dash," says a lighthearted voice that comes from who else but Fluttershy. "You'll get out of this" This only makes my coughing worse. I quickly begin to choke on my own saliva as it gets pushed up from my throat. I hear Twilight running out of the room yelling for the nurse. My coughing becomes so uncontrollable, that my choking knocks me out. =============================================================================================== I awake to my friends all around me. From the looks of my clock, I've been out for about an hour. I feel worse than ever. I have sweat running from my head, I can barely breathe, and to boot, my casts on my back hooves are drenched in blood. I try to lift up my head, but I realize that I can't move any part of my body but my eyes. "She's awake," whispers Fluttershy. There is that voice again. I begin to sob again. Fluttershy flutters over to me and puts a hoof on my heart. "Dash? Umm....Dash?" I can't stop crying. I feel like such a loser, crying in front of my friends. "Dash!" Fluttershy shoves a hoof in my mouth to stop my crying. "Dash, listen to me." I nod to let her know I'm listening. "I want you to know, that no matter what happens, you will always be with us." "B-b-but if I.....ya know.........die then-" "You'll still be with us," she replies, cutting me off. "B-b-" "Shhh..." She attempts to calm me down. I feel a sense of lost hope from all this. The last time....ever. The last time I will ever see them again. "You guys?" I barely can wheeze this out. "I am so sorry about all the heartache I have caused you guys.......I probably ruined all your lives. I know I come off as someone who is confident all the time, but the truth is............I never was. I was always scared throughout my life. I worried I would never make any friends. That is why I took such a liking to Fluttershy! She actually understood me! And we were about to start a life together! And now, well, I'm putting everyone into a state of depression!" "Shhh.....Rainbow? There is something I want to tell you......" "What?" She looks intently into my eyes. "I have a surprise for you......" She walks out of the room. I can't help but feel confused. What? She has been so mysterious the past two days. I sit there awkwardly with my friends looking, no staring, at the door. Fluttershy comes back in with two other ponies who follow. I see Spitfire first, my heart gives a jump, and following her is the always beautiful Princess Celestia. I stare dumbfounded. "Wha-?" "Are we ready to get this wedding started or what?" inquires Celestia. "Uhhh...." "Of course Princess!" Fluttershy turns to me. "I got the princess to have our wedding here, before our time together is up." "Fl-u-uttershy.....I can't believe this........thank you so much!" I am in sheer shock. I am getting my lifelong soul mate......right before I die.......I can't help it. The tears come again...... Celestia begins speaking. "Ladies and Gentlecolts....we are gathered to celebrate the union of Fluttershy and the always loyal Rainbow Dash......." I know I should be listening, but my eyes are all on Fluttershy, looking as beautiful as ever...... I must have been staring at her for about half an hour when I hear the words "the couple has written their own vows and wish to share them with one another!" Uh oh....I don't have any vows......my only hope is to speak from my crushed heart. "Rainbow Dash. Ever since you caused me to get my cutie mark, I knew we would be together forever. Our friendship has known no bounds and has expanded into love. No matter what other ponies think of us, I know we will always be together. Your personality is what makes my life complete. Your tomboyish attitude always makes even the darkest clouds to disappear. I love you Rainbow Dash.....I always will." The tears are back. Not just from me, but everyone in the room......even Spitfire is crying. "And now, Miss Dash...." says the tear-ridden Celestia. "Fluttershy......." my heart feels warm all over. "My love for you has always been a secret to myself. Seeing you with all those animals always led me to make sure it was a sunny day for you. There is nothing I wouldn't do for you. You gave me Tank, no matter how many times I refused, you knew me more than I knew myself. Fluttershy......I can't believe I'm being this sappy but.........I love you......with all my heart........and nothing can break that bond........." I know I'm not good at this kind of stuff, but hey! "Very well.......do you Fluttershy, take Rainbow Dash to be your mare?" "Of course I do" "And do you Rainbow Dash, take-" My ribs feel like their about to crush my veins. I feel myself getting extremely light headed. The heart monitor near me begins to rapidly beep. No.....not now......please not now......of all the times....... "I-I-I-I-I do......" I manage to get this out before I can think no more.
Epilogue: The Gifts of LifeEight ponies walk to one destination. They appear to be crying. Everyone in Ponyville knows why. Leading the line is Twilight Sparkle, her head down, tears dripping from her eyes. Following her is Pinkie Pie, carrying a cake, with a forced smile on her face. Third is Applejack, who just seems flat out depressed. She shows no tears, but her face is void of any smiles. Following her is Scootaloo, the smallest of them. She is fluttering in the air, trying to get her spirits up. She thought losing Dash was bad enough, but what was worse......she had a surprise for her after her passing....she had gotten her cutie mark. She was so excited to show her one morning but then realized she was already gone. The cutie marked show a scooter moving, and in the trail of it, a rainbow similar to the one on Dashs flank. Next up was Princess Celestia, who nobody had ever seen cry before. Today, she was sobbing. It only made the mood worse. After her was Spitfire, who seemed absolutely devastated. She lost all aura of strength that she showed every day. Sixth was Rarity. She looked the worst......eyes red with grief.....followed by a comforting Spike. Last was Fluttershy. She seemed content. Why was beyond everybody. She should be the one feeling the worst. They arrive at a field where a gravestone lies. Celestia walks in front of the gravestone and somberly speaks. "We are gathered to celebrate the life of Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash was a loyal friend and an excellent flier. Her Sonic Rainboom brought smiles to everyone. She portrayed exuberance, love, and, as she would put it, awesomeness. Rainbow Dash brought a cheerful smile to anyone's face. Her buoyancy will always be remembered. As a gift to Rainbow Dash for her birthday, I leave her this...the element of loyalty. This band helped defeat darkness and showed what true friendship can bring. Rainbow Dash....we miss you dearly." Twilight, moved by the princesses words, steps up. "I thought Rainbow Dash was crazy when I first met her. And I was right. But she gave me joy that no other pony has ever given me. No matter how many times she smashed the library, she still made me smile. She pushed the dark clouds out of my way and showed me what true loyalty is. I give Rainbow Dash this, my copy of Daring Do and the Last Escape. Signed by the author herself last night. She sets the book down on Rainbows grave. Rainbow, I hope you are making Rainbows in the sky." Applejack steps up now. "Rainbow was a good competitor. She always gave me a challenge. While she did cheat in the Running of the Leaves, I see her as an excellent adversary. I cannot believe I am saying this but, she was a better athlete than me. Deep down in ma heart I knew it. I just never had the guts ta say it. I will miss Rainbow Dash and our competitions. To celebrate her birthday, I am going to give her this." She takes out a bottle. "In this, lies my cider. She always had issues getting it. So I made a special batch for Dash. Goodbye Dash." Scootaloo and Fluttershy are sobbing together. Next to step up was Spitfire. "In all my years as a Wonderbolt, I had never seen any Pegasi like Rainbow Dash. Bravery, loyalty....insanity. She was the messiah of the Wonderbolts. I will always dream of one day being as good of a flier as Dash.....I miss you Dash.....and welcome to the Wonderbolts." She sets down a uniform on the grave. Pinkie Pie sets down a cake on the grave. The cake reads Happy 31st Birthday Dashie! A rainbow goes across the top. Each pony engages in singing happy birthday, a tradition for Pinkie Pie. The last three ponies step up and drop off their gifts. From Spike, a giant ruby. From Rarity, the gown that was worn by Rainbow Dash at the Grand Galloping Gala. And lastly, from Mrs. Fluttershy Dash, an album. Inside the album are pictures of the gang with Rainbow Dash. As each pony said their final goodbyes, rain began to fall, as if Dash had done that for everyone to know that she was watching. Each pony then walked over to the library to read Dash's will. =============================================================================================== The Last Will and Testament of Rainbow Dash To Twilight Sparkle Hey Egghead! How is it going! I miss you so much! You always gave me hope when you weren't, you know, reading. I have decided to give you my entire Daring Do collection. Thank you for bringing in so much adventure into my life. This series made me realize how much I was missing out on! I miss you so much and hope you eventually become a princess! To Applejack Hiya pardner! I know we always butted heads over competition, but I want you to know.....I had fun! Competing with you kept me fresh at the Wonderbolt Academy and if it wasn't for you, I don't think I could ever run again. From me, I give you my headgear that I won after winning the Young Fliers Competition in Cloudsdale. Thank you for keeping my exercise interesting. To Rarity I know I messed up your clothing a lot.....but you made me happy. When I was an absolute flank, you remained cool. About 20 percent cooler I might add. I wish to thank you for not making me look like an idiot at the Grand Galloping Gala.....for you.......this was hardest of all........a piece of my mane, so that you may use it in an outfit that will be 40 percent cooler!! To Pinkie Pie Hey Party Animal! Your parties kinda made me feel sleepy all the time, but I loved them nonetheless. If there was anything I could have done to be as good of a partier as you.....well.....that is not possible. For you......I give you my last package of rainbow balloons. May you have the best party ever. To Scootaloo Sorry about not keeping my promises about teaching you how to fly....I really wanted to help but I was always busy. For my number one fan, I give you my most prized possession. I leave you two tickets to the Wonderbolts show in Ponyville. I was going to surprise you with them on your birthday, but I figured, hey, you need a new person to go. Keep flyin kid. I'll be watching you.... PS I also leave you my sunglasses. If you're going to be as awesome and cool as me, you need to dress the part too! Love ya squirt, and soar on! Fluttershy You brought me all the joy in the world. I am excited to start my life together with you. I leave you my entire estate and financial account. I also leave you with my best memory of you. My tortoise Tank. You gave me Tank when I refused to allow for him to be near me. Tank showed me what my true element of harmony was meant to be. Without Tank, my afternoons would have been extremely lonely. Thank you Fluttershy, for all you have given me. I am looking forward to our future life. No pony had a dry eye. Everyone had remembered the fondest memories with Dash. The rain outside slowly came to a close. Each walked out to head home only to be looking up at the sky in astonishment. A single rainbow lie there, beckoning them. Before Fluttershy headed home, she stopped by Dash's grave. It read "HERE LIES RAINBOW DASH: THE BEST FLIER IN ALL OF EQUESTRIA" Fluttershy sighed and added one more thing. A Faithful, Loyal and Loving Friend. May you bring Rainbows to the skies forever THE END
