7.1
This had better not be a joke. Getting me up this early. It’s not even time to raise the Sun. Please be a joke.

The doors slammed open. Near buckling from the force of that golden light that came over them. Keeping them wide open for a stallion to rush through them. Even in such heavy armor, he could still gallop at full speed. Like nothing was there. As he should be after what he had said. How terrifying it sounded. The way he said it all and how he looked, whatever this was had clearly shaken him. That was what made the next pony follow after him.

Running right through those doors on such long legs. Clanging loudly on those golden armored horseshoes. Frantically rushing just as fast as that stallion was that led her.

“You had better not be lying to me” she yelled after him.

“I’m telling the truth” he said. Just barely able to get the words out between his breaths. “Something happened. She’s going wild against us. Threw a pot at one of the guards.”

She threw a pot? Oh dear. I can’t imagine what can be wrong. All I knew was that she was crying and so upset. Now I hear she’s acting like this? She doesn’t usually get like this. Something must have happened. “Can you tell me if you noticed anything strange before it?”

“No. I uh… was away and came back to see her like that.”

Away, huh? I’m not so dumb as to not know you were asleep at your post. Oh well… it’s just one guard. The castle has hundreds. I’m just glad he was able to bring me this news. Sounds like I’m the only one who can deal with this.

7.2
There’s the other guards. A line of them up ahead. All standing about within the many pathways etched across these gardens. So many of them. This must be where she is.

The two ponies ran past the long docks of pots for so many countless daisies, roses, flowers of so many colors and backgrounds. No walking through these lovely gardens right now to wander about in the beauty of Equestria. No, not tonight. Not with so much worry. So much panic as the guard who led her yelled to the others. “I got her!”

They all turned. So many heavily armored guards in gold and white. Black and blue. The many ponies who protected this castle. So normal when they saw their companion come back. That all changed when they saw the one who rushed in behind him.

They all clambered to attention. Standing tall. Making not a move. Nothing that Princess Celestia could see.

Celestia went by them all. Leaving a gust of wind blowing behind her in the brilliance of her shining aurora mane. Skidding right to a halt. I’m here so where is… She looked to the daffodils. Shining in the light of the burning blue Moon. All along the empty bench of pure marble that gleamed just as bright. Where one could sit at by the railing. Because beyond that was where you could watch out upon all of the city.

One pony normally sat there, looking out at Canterlot in the peace of the night. When I would look out from my bed and sometimes see her sitting down here. Quiet and alone. It’s no shock that she would be here. She was here. Not sitting on the bench. No.

Princess Luna. Laying so still. All alone against the foot of that bench.

“We found her like this, Princess” she heard a guard say behind her. Almost missed him saying that. It was too hard to not take her eyes off that pony laying over there. To not stare in silence. “She refuses to speak to us.”

“Sister…?”

Celestia glanced over. Spotting what she had missed. Where so many shards lay strewn about with the sad corpses of flowers among them. The pot she threw. Must be. That must be why all the guards kept their distance. None of them dared to try anything. I would think they might. Especially now… Celestia’s ears perked.

She heard it. Luna… was crying.

Hidden inside of her mane over there. Huddled up in her own legs. Like the night was covering her up in the darkness of her gorgeous coat and glimmering mane. The tiniest noise of such a sad cry. One that made Celestia gasp. I know the sound well. All the times she has cried. All the nights I had to calm you down. The days when I would help you fall back to sleep from a nightmare. I know what it’s like to hear her cry. I am the one she needed.

“Thank you for watching over her. You all may go.”

It took them a moment. Celestia looked at none of them behind her. Didn’t need to to hear their armored hoofsteps march away without a word. I know they all meant well. But I understand them not wanting to try and be there for my sister. When she gets like this… it can be scary. Not enough to scare me. All alone. Just the two of us. Celestia went ahead. Softly striding across the garden. Joining with that pony who lay by the bench underneath the railing. She laid down too. Next to that pony in the shadows of the daffodils.

7.3
“Luna.” She whispered into the mare’s ear. Spoken so gently to lightly rustle that blue fur. “Sister, it’s me.”

Don’t be afraid. It’s only me. Your big sister. Whatever is wrong, just know I’m here now like I always am. No more days like the old days. You can trust me. She must have. She did. Even if the princess did not move, nothing flew at her. No violent outbursts. A huge step from long ago. She doesn’t need to do anything right now. She just needs to know I’m here for her. The little cries under that long mane was what made Celestia summon the courage to gently stroke a hoof along the soft fur along the pony’s back.

Nights like these are rare. Just the two of us, sisters, together. So many long and tiring days. I never get to spend much time with you. The few moments we get to just sit down and not be so snippy about how tired we are, I love them. Sometimes you can even be okay with me touching you. But, often, you don’t like it. So what is it now? Why is she letting me touch her for so long? Luna was just laying there. Not even moving from the soft touch against her back. The fur that ruffled between her huge wings that lay out along the garden grounds. Like they covered the garden in the black of night. As dark as she was until…

The shine of bright blue like the ocean itself that looked out from under her mane.

Luna’s eyes. Like they could reflect the moonlight. Shining bright in the water of so many deep tears. Light that illuminated them both. Just them staring at one another under the deep blue light. Looking deep into those sad, little eyes of the young alicorn. Celestia did not know what to say. What to think. How could one take this? Being woken up late at night to find your dear sister crying so much. Like her entire face and mane was fresh out of a shower. How can one react when that same sister now started smiling?

She looked up. Not at me. No. Something behind me. Above me. Celestia didn’t need to look to know what it was that Luna was looking at from behind her deep blue mane of starlight. Such relief in her voice as she spoke in the most elegance she could even while crying. “It’s so beautiful. Thank goodness.”

The Moon.

As if the Moon was her family. Something she could brag about like she sounded like she was doing. Just like when we were kids. Who had the more beautiful astrological body? Crying as she said that. Smiling even wider before that pony finally laid back down. Not on the floor, but against Celestia. Finding a place against her chest. Like she was truly at ease now. Was she?

Celestia looked up at the Moon. “Of course, it is gorgeous.” Like the nights when I told you this before. Such a sad mare. Ever since she came back home. Having to hold her like this on such rare moments and ask me if the Moon was beautiful. Like she wanted praise for it. But I know the truth. She wants to know if… something else is beautiful. Something else… after so many years of being seen as something horrible.

“The Moon is always so beautiful. She always is.” Things aren’t like they used to be.

“Is it? Was it?... Was it beautiful tonight!?”

Luna reeled back. Falling back against the dirt. “How was it beautiful!?” Like it all changed right there. No more smile. None as Luna cried even harder. So many new tears. So much pain in what she had just said.

Is it beautiful?

“Sister, tell me what happened. What’s wrong?” Just tears. Luna staring off with not even a murmur anymore.

What is she saying? Was it beautiful? The way she said it. I’ve never heard her so… hostile about her own Moon. It hurts to hear. Why isn’t she saying anything? She’s not telling me why she said that stuff. When she never should. I promise her that the Moon is beautiful. That she is welcome here. Nothing has changed. “Why would you say that?”

Luna sighed. Looking… such solemn eyes. Even sad as she spoke. “Are you saying you did not see what happened? Not even felt it?” Luna asked. “You saw not what happened to the Moon? To my precious night?”

Well… the thing is… I was asleep. I’d rather not mention that to her. She seems pretty upset… and scared. Scared over something that happened to her night. I’m honestly afraid now. My sister, when does she get this worked up over her own night?

“What happened to your night?”

“Blood” Luna spat.

Celestia felt her heart skip a beat. Such an awful word coming out of her sister’s trembling mouth. “The entire sky was blood. …And my Moon was as red as a rose.” The patches of roses among the many other flowers of the castle gardens fluttered their petals with the wind to accompany Luna’s claim.

“I lost the Moon, sister!” Luna tossed herself to her side to face away from Celestia. “I don’t know how, yet nothing I attempted brought it back to me. All I could do was sit and watch it leave my grace.”

“You lost the Moon?!” Celestia let out in a high whisper. “How?” “I don’t know!” Luna screamed. Her voice went down to a whimper. “I don’t know what happened to me.” And the wind came in. So sharp like an icy chill. Celestia felt the fur on her back stands up. Her skin begin to crawl under it all.

7.4
“The night was as beautiful as always” Luna said abruptly. “I walked the gardens enjoying those very sights and sounds with the Moon smiling down on me.” The same things I always see when I walk these gardens too. I know them well. Like a light of rainbows that just tell you how serene and warm this land of ours can be.

“It came upon me so quickly. More than just a shadow that made me think the Moon was dying but a feeling that pushed me away from it. It was not as if I couldn’t reach out to the Moon. I… I felt so much…” Luna could not go on. Couldn’t reach the Moon? What does that feel like? Celestia almost wanted to gulp with how much her heart began to race.

I can’t even imagine. She lost the Moon. How can we lose the things we are tasked with? It’s like… what if I lost my magic or… my Sun? How does it feel? I can’r even imagine it right now. Can’t even think about what she is talking about to feel like the thing you love is dying. But she’s telling me it happened. And I need to know.

“What did you feel?”

“It… was a feeling that…” Luna sighed. “It cut me off from the Moon. I… simply could not concentrate as if it cut through me. Can you imagine how terrifying it is? Almost as if your soul is split by…” She looked off. Not even blinking.

What? Tell me how you felt, Luna.

7.5
Luna gulped. She could almost feel her own heart stop. What was that feeling? What can I tell her? Celestia stared down at her. I have to tell her something but… I can’t describe it. It’s like it should be something I know but… more. Put a word on it. I know the feeling. I know it well but it’s like it wasn’t my own. That feeling cut me off from the Moon, but it’s that same feeling that kept me company on the Moon for so long. Such irony.

Can I even say the feeling was this?

“…Loneliness” she finished. “I don’t know why but I felt so much sadness, and… it was not my own.” She fell back just to let those tears she felt coming finally flow out. I can’t go on anymore. Don’t make me talk anymore, sister. I can’t even think straight. Not after it.

Pain. Loneliness. Regret. An incredible loss. With an undying anger.

I was so afraid of it all. I felt it all. It was overwhelming. Like it took the Moon from me. Me! How can I describe it to her!? Looking up at my Moon, my sky, and see it all covered in red while feeling this way. I’ve never felt such pain before. I thought I knew what it was like. Don’t make me talk about it anymore.

7.6
Something touched the back of her neck. Such warmth softly rolling along her fur. Two large, white legs went across her and pulled her back into a cozy blanket of white fur all along Celestia’s chest. That was all it took. Luna felt her tears… slowly stop in the calm silence of the night. As calm as her heart became. She looked down at those legs that held her, seeing that her tears had soaked the white fur. Until no more tears fell.

“It’s okay. Everything is okay.” Celestia’s muzzle rubbed up against the side of Luna’s head as she set her own head down upon Luna’s shoulder.

Okay? Is it truly okay? Please. I never want to feel that again… and I don’t even know why I felt it. I never want to see that again. Just let me lay like this for a while. Finally some comfort. Some that she fell back into. Just to forget the pain. Whatever it was.

“I’m exhausted” Luna muttered. Celestia nodded next to her. “You should get some sleep. I’ll take you to your room.” Yeah. Morning is almost here. I just want to go to bed now. Forget it all. Not have to look up at the Moon, my Moon. At least until the next night. I don’t want to see it again. I don’t want to see that darkness. Darker than any night but as red as blood. Luna set her head against Celestia’s. Just give me a few minutes.

“I’ll lower the Moon in a moment. Just… can I just stay like this?” “Of course.” Like this in this moment. It’s like it never happened. But it still stung. I can feel it. What indescribable pain. Something. Something made me feel this way. …What?

Just the shimmer of the blue Moon upon this world. A world that felt so hollow now. Like it was all gone. All I can remember…

Anguish.

7.7
Normally I would be afraid of all this. I wonder what’s changed. All this darkness and silence. This world that I feel like I should know so well by now. It’s so different. Like something is ending.

“Soul Serenity, …I love you.”

Dashie? Did you really say that to me? I don’t get it. I can feel the fur on my back standing up. I can feel the chills and the loneliness. This place always did this to me. It never changed. Surrounded by the darkness of the forest. Where the vines and thorns tore at the night. It always felt like they could tear at me. But it’s like it’s all gone now. Nothing. I don’t feel afraid.

What has happened to me? What are these words I keep hearing?

All the scars. Where are they? Soul stared down at her legs. All over her body. My fur. My beautiful fur. That’s all it is. It’s all gone. They’re gone…

She loves me? Soul put the hoof she held up to her chest. I don’t get it. What did this? Why did she say that to me? Something happened to change it… she should never say that to me but she did. She told me she hated me, now she loves me. It’s real. Yet I feel so... confused. I don’t know what to feel. After what she said to me. I think I know why she did it.

After all this time, she still does this for me. Blight.

“Did you do this?” she asked. Asked the darkness. All around those deep vines. The leaves that fell upon the dirt she sat on. I know you’re there. You did something. Admit it.

“All I did was show her everything you’ve gone through. It’s the least I could do.” The least? Blight. There were too many questions. Waking up next to Dashie… after she said all that to me. I could hear her. I heard it all. Like she really was there with me in that cold house. Waking up to the land I missed and hearing the pony I missed tell me that she loves me. She loves me. “Why did you do that?”

Soul’s ears perked. She heard it. The sound of leaves crunching and finding it was from a dark hoof stepping upon the ground that was as dark as that pony was. Only her those yellow slit eyes peering out from that darkness. There you are. “You sound disappointed” Blight said from over there. “I thought you could use my help.”

“I’m not disappointed. Not at all.” Soul couldn’t be. Not with her heart racing in joy. Like a warm flush going over her. It felt so amazing. So amazing to not be afraid anymore. Still though… “I wanted us to work together to make things right. Why did you do it on your own?” “You let me have a good time at the party” Blight said just as she stepped out from the shadows. Trailing that darkness behind her shimmering black body. So gentle in her stride. Soul could not stop staring at her. What is that? Something was different. Blight…

Like a wind of black coming around her. Her misty body. Wherever she stepped wrapped in darkness. “Blight?”

Wisps of silver echoing and then silently flowing away from that pony. As if the wind itself melted around her. “I wanted to return the favor in the best way I could. And now Dashie is yours again, right?”

Soul was silent. Watching that pony step up to her till she was just a leg’s reach away. Sitting down with her as the ground beneath that pony fell into darkness. Soul just stared, not able to take her eyes off this. Off the face that stared at her. The shine in those yellow eyes upon that black pony. Like they glimmered in the dead light of this world. Shifting. Even if she’s smiling… it’s like… she’s sad. “Are you okay?” Soul asked.

“Of course. Ever since I met you, I’ve only wanted you to be happy. It brings me such joy to see that all the work we’ve done is paying off. How far we’ve come. It’s amazing.”

“You gave Dashie back to me. You brought me home. I feel like I’ve done nothing. That you are just putting everything on yourself. I want you to be happy too” Soul said. “I am happy. Don’t you see?” Soul stared. Blight smiled. I do see. I see something else. Even if this mare was as bright as could be, that darkness. It had never been so bleak upon her black fur. “I wanted to try and show Dash that I was sorry” Soul said.

“You did.”

Soul froze. “You did by being there for her and showing just how determined you were to come back to her. Banished for twelve years and now you’re back. You never gave up in the end, she knows that. It was quite an adventure, one that’s not done yet.”

“It is just the start.”

Soul felt her heart jump. I know what she means. There is one thing left that is keeping things from being normal again.

Blight’s dark wings wrapped themselves around Soul’s body and pulled her up to her chest. That loving Pegasus hug Soul always found so heartwarming to see such a pony perform. Warming… like...

What is this?

7.8
Soulblight. She’s warm.

When did that happen? Soul couldn’t move. Sitting there in time underneath those black wings. Against the shimmering fur of the pony who warmed her. The pony who never warmed her like this before, and Soul shook. Shivered. Something is wrong. She glanced back at that pony who smiled up into the darkness. Her cold stare… as cold as she used to be, and Soul could say nothing.

“I told you I wanted to help you, and I will do that. Anything it takes to help you.”

Like all the fur on Blight’s body glowed in that brilliant black. To see darkness so bright like this. As if her fur could shine in the night they both sat under. Burning away the darkness itself, like nothing was left to threaten her.

I should be afraid. Something. Is there something wrong? Blight? But I… I can’t even move. This pony does everything for me. She has always protected me. I feel like I’ve not done much to repay her. Rainbow Dash loves me. She’s giving me… Dash is making me feel this way. What is this? This feeling in my heart? Blight did this. She got rid of the pain.

My fear. And I’ve done nothing for her. I don’t know what I can do anymore.

“Princess Celestia will not let me stay in Equestria though. I don’t want to hide away from the world forever. I need to do something.” “You won’t have to. You don’t need to face your past alone” Blight said.

“I want Celestia to know the truth and I want to convince her. She needs to see the filly that she banished twelve years ago again. She needs to know what I have done to make it back here. That I will never give up.”

This is something I can do. I will show the entire world just what I can do. A pnoy who had everything taken from her, I’ll do the impossible and change my fate. They will all see that I was supposed to be the great flyer I was destined to be. I’ll do it. “I want to try and do it. You don’t need to do anymore. You gave me Dashie back… for that, I really do thank you so much. For all you’ve done. Just please… can we work together to see this through to the end?”

Black tipped hair hung down in front of her. Down from the pony whose head sat high over Soul’s own. Blight finally took her eyes off from the darkness, staring down at Soul with those piercing yellow eyes and she smiled. “Yes, but I still want to help at least. You don’t need to face your past alone anymore. I’ll talk to you later, Soul. …I promise you by tomorrow, you will be free, but for now just rest.”

I’m glad to hear that. “Thank you.” Deep in this darkness, even if so much felt wrong, everything still sounded right. I had twelve years of dreaming of this day when I can finally have my life back. Everything is so strange now. This warm touch on my back. Something so dark that slithered and seeped. She felt in her ear as it spoke.

“Sleep well, my little pony. Enjoy your dream.”

7.9
Morning. The Sun beaming in. Just like how every morning usually is. Waking up to the light pouring in and seeping over this room. Another room. So different from any other I’ve slept in. Like sleeping inside the clouds themselves. Surrounded by the light that was so high in the sky outside the open windows all around. Casting the shadows of all dressers upon the carpet. High up? Is it midday?

Wow, it really is that late. When did I got to bed? When did we go to bed? This room… so it all wasn’t a dream. It was all true. All those words I heard, as real as my heart that’s pounding. It’s beating so hard because that would mean…

I can feel her. Something soft touching against her side. She’s still there.

Soul glanced to see that cyan wing wrapped over her body down below. She’s really here, sleeping with me. Soul turned, just able to look over her shoulder. Yes, Dash… Dashie is here. Rainbow still laying there right at her side. Sharing the same pillow. So close, close enough for her own fur to mix with that of Soul’s. Like how I did this for her.

She’s holding me.

Soul looked back. Away from Dash. Her eyes so wide. I feel so weird like this. Why? I slept with her before. It never felt like this. Something is different. She never made me feel this way before. Like so much has changed so quickly. But it’s true. We’re together. She’s holding me. Everything she told me was true.

“It really is like old times.”

Soul almost gasped when she heard that. The voice behind her. She had to look and see that the rainbow-maned Pegasus was still there and was awake. Staring at her with such shining magenta eyes under her long lashes. Blinking so gently with the tiny tears in her eyes as she yaewned. “But I get to do this for you now” she said.

Dashie?

7.10
“Sleep well?” Dash shuffled her wing a little over Soul. Not much, just enough to bring it further up till those feathers even covered up Soul’s neck. Feeling Dash’s leg underneath that wing as it held Soul. She really has been hugging me all night. I… I don’t know what to say. Soul gulped. It’s all like a dream. It’s come true. I’ve never felt so happy before. Not that I can remember. And she’s the one who’s doing this. This pony that I hurt so long ago. She wants to do this for me. Dashie, you really are something else. For making me feel this way. Soul finally let her hoof go from her heart.

“I slept great.” That was the truth. Staring at one another, Soul just felt the warmth under those beautiful feathers. There’s just something about this that makes it so different. Being held by Blight was one thing… Dashie is doing it now. Soul couldn’t hold back her smile. “Better than I have in so long.”

“I’m glad.” “What about you” Soul asked. Looking at how Dash yawned again. “You looked tired.” Dash licked her lips. Staring under her lowered lids, barely able to smile. “See right through me? Yeah, late night… and took me a while to finally pass out.” Oh man, I’m sorry I had to keep her up last night. I kinda didn’t expect what Blight did. “Why did you have a hard time falling asleep?” Soul asked. Before a long pause.

“Just remembering and thinking” Dash said as her smiled faded. Before she sighed and looked past Soul. Nothing could be said. Soul just listened. “Sleeping together like this, it’s just been so long. It made me remember just how great we had it when we were fillies. You held me just like this and I could never forget that feeling. I always thought I’d never get the chance to do it for you. I’m so glad I could.” Dash’s hug tightened. “All these years that have gone by, I feel like we finally have a chance to make up for all of it. I finally have you back.”

That was what made a tear go down Dash’s cheek.

7.11
“Dashie?” Soul moved her hoof underneath Dash’s wing. I’ll wipe it off. Her hoof was stopped, stopped when she felt Dash’s own hoof push her’s away and that pony shook her head. “Don’t. Trust me, I’m happy.” Dash sniffled. “So happy to be able to do this with you. I have you back. And I’m here for you. Screw those twelve years, I’ll be there for you from now on.”

What happened while I was asleep? Dash, you’re never this nice to me. Except for… long ago. Rainbow. This is the Rainbow I remember. She really is here with me, my best friend and the pony who always made me feel like I belong. Blight, I know I said I wanted us to work together on this, but I can’t help but be so thankful. You’re why she has changed. Why I feel so happy now. Life is so different all of a sudden.

“But can you ever forgive me?” Dash muttered.

Forgive you? Soul shook her head and finally pushed Dash’s hoof aside. Where she could place that hoof upon Dash’s cheek and hushed her. There’s no need to feel sad anymore. I know everything you had to go through after we parted. No more sadness. “I forgave you a long time ago” Soul said.

“Really? I… saw everything you had to go through, it was horrible. The pain you were in and how much you suffered. Alone all that time. I could have stopped it if I had just been there for you. There’s just a part of me that makes me feel like it’s my fault.” Soul hushed her again.

So she saw everything. This is why she couldn’t sleep well. She saw what I had to go through, I don’t think anypony can sleep well on that. Poor Dashie. I never blamed you. “You were always my friend, the one pony who I never forgot. You were the one who gave me happiness, so I coulds never blame you. Don’t blame yourself because I’m not mad.” Indeed, you’re the reason I’m here now. I never gave up because of you.

“How can you not blame me?” Dash asked with another tear falling. Sweet Dashie, no. Soul ran her hoof over her cheek. Softly making Rainbow close her eyes and cry. “I abandoned you. All these years I felt like it was my fault and that you hated me. I’d hate me after what I did to you. You were right all along and I ignored you. Why forgive me?”

“Dashie!”

Rainbow opened her eyes. So many tears making her eyes nearly red. Just shut up and listen to me.

“Rainbow, …she showed you everything, right?” Dash perked her ears up. Hesitating. She knows what I mean. She’s quiet so it’s true. They did talk last night while I was asleep. “She showed you what I went through. Did you happen to learn why I went through it all?”

Soul asked. Rainbow didn’t answer.

The same reason I always had. “Just to see you again” Soul said tightening her hug. “I could have given up at any moment but I didn’t, all because of you and her. Because you’re my best friends. It’s why I’m so glad you two could actually meet and… and now… I think we can all finally have the lives we wanted. It’s such a wonderful feeling to think that… it’s possible now. It’s why I came back when nopony wanted me back. Just because I always dreamed of this moment.”

Rainbow wiped a tear from her eye. “She’s a good sister to you.”

Sister? Did Blight say…? Soul shook her head. No matter how much it still hung on her mind. “She is a good friend but so are you.” Soul let go of Rainbow and rubbed a hoof on her messy mane. “Look at me, I want to tell you something.”

7.12
Rainbow kept her eyes on Soul. Look at me when I say this because I am serious. Because, after what you said to me last night, I can’t get this weird feeling out of me. It’s like my heart is racing. Like I can break down. It’s so hard to deal with all that has happened. In the end, all I remember are those words she told me.

“I never lost how I felt about you. I never hated you, and now I see you never hated me. Dashie, you’re still the pony I love.”

Soul held her smile just as she held her tears in which Rainbow failed to do as one managed to escape from her eye. And more. Soul felt her heart jump. Is she…?

Dash looked away. Not quick enough. Soul still saw it. The mare was blushing. “Damn it” she said. “Saying that to me. I uh…” Soul could feel Dash’s wing get tighter around her. “Oh… thank you. I promise things will be normal again. We’ll do all the stuff we used to do.” That’s all I can ask for.

Even if you try to hide it from me, I can tell. Soul smiled when those wings came off of her and Dash sat up next to her. Stretching her legs. Waiting for Soul to also get up with her. I can tell.

Something has changed between us.

7.13
Soul could hear somepony’s stomach rumble. From the mare who sat next to her, and how Dash shyly giggled. Looks like it’s time to get going. Speaking of which, Soul felt it down below. I do need to use her bathroom. Wait… “Where is your bathroom again?” “Oh, just go out my room and it’s the first door on the left side.”

Good. I’ll leave her to it for a moment. I kinda need some alone time with a certain pony as well. “How’s about you head downstairs while I clean up the bed. I’ll make us breakfast” Dash suggested. She’s the one who’s hungry, but I’ll never turn down food from her. I’d love it. Soul nodded and she got up on her hooves. Stretching out her own huge wings. Breakfast with Dashie. I wonder how she cooks. Her first meal for me, things have changed.

Soul flew out the room leaving Rainbow to make the bed. Flying off right there to see exactly where that bathroom was. Fix up my mane and clean up a little and also…

“So I’m trying to think of a good time to find the princess” Soul whispered. “Do you happen to know where I can find her?” I do, but I’m not telling.

“What?” Soul held her mouth closed. Almost shouted there. Why not? You know I want to get this settled soon. Remember, I want to be the one to deal with this.

I clearly remember. Don’t worry. You will get to meet her. I just don’t want to rush anything.

Rush what?

Just enjoy your day. The time will come. I feel like today will be one you want to experience without worrying about the princess.

What do you mean? You’ll see.

7.14
Rainbow flew right down the stairs, hearing the flaps of another pair of wings right behind her. Soul hurdled right out the bathroom. Her mane was perfectly kept once more and she actually smiled. Laughing a little as she kept up with Dash down the stairs. Joining one another to hover over the living room, lit bright in the noon Sun shining in through the windows. Feels a lot like old times. Back when she hung out with me in my old house. Following each other around. Being together in the same house. It’s been too long. Mom and dad made the food last time, now it’s my turn.

“So whatcha want to eat?” Dash asked, floating on over towards the counters of the kitchen. Leaving Soul to herself and that Pegasus actually had an answer. Pretty quick to say “how do you feel about pancakes?” Oh thank Celestia, something I know how to make. Not what I expected her to say either. “You liked them from yesterday? No prob. You’ll love how I make them.” I got everything I need for them. Dash went right ahead and pulled everything out. Making food for a guest, been a long time. Nopony ever comes over for this and I’d never expect it to be her of all ponies. It kind of does feel like things are how we were long ago.

I never make meals like this. Turning on burners, pulling out pans and lots of stuff to make something. Usually just something simple for me, never anything for guests. I think today is gonna be a new day.

Hope she likes this. Dash poured in the batter, stirring and separating. Getting everything else ready to be thrown on the stove. I’ll make a lot for her and add some of my touch to it. She’s gonna need it all for what I got planned. No more games. Soul is my best friend and it’s time we go back to doing things together. Dash was just too giddy over it all. So much to do. No need to worry about a thing for today. No. I want to show that mare a good time. Starting with this.

7.15
Start pouring in more batter into that steaming pan. Like a dozen of them. More to come. So many more.

A noise. Dash almost panicked. Grabbing at the spatula she dropped out of her mouth and caught it just before it could land on the floor. What was… oh crap. Who can that be? Dash turned back. Looking over to where the front door was. Somepony just knocked, and she looked over to Soul. That pony also stared at the door. Damn. Dash looked down at the pancakes. I can’t leave them.

“Hey Soul, sorry to trouble you, but can you get that?” Really I never get guests and now somepony is here. Better be the mailpony. Dash shoved the spatula down into one pancake just as Soul called out. “Sure!” Seeing the pony fly off towards the door. “If it’s the mail, can you leave it on the couch for me?” “Yeah, I got it!” Soul yelled back down from the hallway.

I think she’ll like this. Dash finished flipping each and every pancake. If I know Soul then I know just what she will like with these and the key to them is… Dash opened the fridge and found what she picked up yesterday right there. All the strawberries. Oh yeah… I now how to service her. Grab some of these and… whipped cream. Yes! If there’s one way to show a pony how much they mean to you, it’s to really please their stomach. And I sure want to show you how happy I am you are here with me. Who knows? Dash smiled down at all the food she set out. Maybe I can start making you food a lot more often.

“Hey, Dashie.” Dash didn’t turn around, too busy washing those strawberries. “What’s up?”

“Nice of you to sleep so late, Dash.” That sounds like…

7.16
“Twilight?” Dash almost dropped everything. Turning back.

Soul and… Twilight. Both standing at the other side of the kitchen. “Sorry, Dash. I didn’t know what to do so I sorta invited her in. Hope it’s okay” Soul said. This was different. Twi hasn’t been over in a while. Usually just to grab something. Is… is that what she’s here for?

“No, no. It’s alright. But uh… Twi, didn’t think I’d see you here.” Dash checked back to make sure the pancakes were okay. Already turning down the burner. “Well it’s really late in the day and nopony has seen you today” Twilight shrugged. “Hope you aren’t too busy.” “Late? Oh well… yeah I was up late last night.” Such an understatement. How late were we even up? Besides that… “Do you need something? We were just about to have breakfast. Unless you want to join us.”

“Oh no, it’s technically lunch now and I already ate. But… I did stop by to see how you were and talk to you for a moment, if you can.” Dash nodded. I can spare a minute. I’d like to get to giving Soul her food soon and get out of here as quick as we can. Mostly cuz I have something I really want to do with her. Hope it’s not a long talk. Sorry Twi, just been so long since I’ve hung out with Soul.

“Mind if I talk to Dash for a moment in private?” Twilight said that… to Soul. To the pony who looked at her with so much confusion. Just like Dash was now confused. In private? What can be so private that Soul can’t be here? Is this… is this about what Twilight said to me yesterday? That was what made Dash hold her tongue. Kind of hurt to hear how tiny Soul’s voice got when she spoke. “Oh, okay. No problem.” Her ears even fell when she took to the air and flew off. Landing by herself onto the couch in the living room.

Oh… don’t be worried, Soul. Please make this quick, Twi.

7.17
Rainbow was all alone in the kitchen with her. Twilight actually stood still for a moment, like she was afraid to step close at first. Looking back over her shoulder at Soul. She even had to whisper. “Did everything go okay last night?”

Rainbow stopped pouring even more batter. Looking back at her. Flustered. She can see it, can’t she? Because I know I am freaking out a little. Some fear inside of Dash. So hard to contain it, she had to look back at what she had been doing. Why would she come here asking that? Did she… oh no. Does she know what happened last night? Was I not the only one who saw the Moon?

“Why’d you ask?”

“I was just worried something might have happened last night. It’s not like you to be this late so I wanted to see if something is wrong.”

Rainbow set the bowl of batter down now that enough was frying in the pan. Going right back to flipping the other ones that had plenty of time to brown. She sighed as she let the spatula down on the counter. So… she doesn’t know what happened. Honestly, I don’t full know what happened. Soulblight and that world I was in. That magic that I’ve never seen before. Everything I saw.

What am I supposed to do about it?

Maybe… Twilight is a pony that should know. After seeing all that, I’m not sure what to do. Can my friends help me? Would they believe me? Unless Twi really did see what happened. “Did you notice anything late last night?” Rainbow asked. I want to be sure.

“Well not really, I was sort of sleeping… for a time” Twilight said. For a time? Dash shot her a look. The alicorn nodded. This look on her. Something is off. Like Twilight was so deep in thought. So taken by something. I know that look. Something is troubling her. This was more than just checking on me. “I’m worried” Twilight said.

So she did notice something. I hear it in her voice. “Why are you worried?”

Twilight glanced back once more. Still checking on Soul. The Pegasus still busy over by the couch. Sifting through her own fur. “I take it she’s doing okay” Twilight said. “But I notice something is different with her today. It makes me wonder if something really did happen last night because… I admit, something did happen to me.”

Dash widened her eyes. She knows. How can I explain this to her? I really need her help. I need everypony’s help. If they could only see what I saw, they’d understand why I’m so afraid. Everything that happened. None of it is stuff any pony could ever imagine. Let alone trying to figure out how to fix it all.

I’m just one pony.

“Yes. Something did happen last night. And I need your help with Soul” Dash whispered. Twilight was silent. “You told me I needed to take care of her but I realized this is not something I can do alone. I need you all.” I need them to trust me. After all that I saw, I know I’m not able to solve everything. So much needs to change. Soul needs her life back. She needs her world back. “I can’t really explain what happened.”

“I see…” Twilight muttered. Finally breaking that dead stare. Her voice low. Like it could cut through the air with how harsh it was. “Did you feel it last night too? That… sadness?”

“Sadness?”

“I woke up last night. And I was crying. For some reason. Just everything felt terrible and I don’t know why. I thought you might have an answer to it.”

7.18
“You two are whispering over there… but I can hear you.”

How noble of them to want to help Soul. I can feel it. You are all the key to it. It’s all I want, and I feel I am getting so close to finally seeing this happy ending you all want. Finally live up to being that pony that Soul will love more than any other. No matter how dark it feels. How dark it gets. This little body of a Pegasus. Staring down upon her blackened fur. Sifting in the stings of so much whirling darkness. So different, so empty. It’s almost like… I’ve felt this before.

Any cost to feel happy. To stop these tears. These tears that kept falling upon her black hooves. If this is all the only way to be able to do it… then I’ll do it. I’ll let them all do it and then… happiness?

“No more sadness. A day will come when I won’t feel sad. Maybe soon… when Soul and Dash…” she wiped her tears away. Only more came out. Thinking about what will come next. The tears hurt. Today will be their day and it will lead to when I won’t feel sad anymore, right? To know Soul will be safe in this world. My best friend will be safe. Reason enough to not be sad.

Sad. So… the princess can feel… my sadness?

7.19
“Something did happen” Dash said. “But I can’t talk about it here. Not now. Not with Soul here. Just, I need you to know that this is not something I can do by myself.”

“Dash, what happened?” Rainbow shook her head impatiently, just wanting to get to the point. “I’ll need to talk to Soul first. Could you possibly tell the others I need their help? We’ll all meet up at Sugarcube Corner this evening. It’s better to do it later with everypony.” That was what finally made Twilight nod.

“Alright, I’ll talk to them. Just don’t exert yourself if you need our help.” Rainbow went back to scooping those glowing brown pancakes out. All ready for the plates. I don’t plan on running myself ragged. For now, it’s my time to service Soul. I can give her a good time just like she deserves. “Awesome. You gonna stay for breakfast?” Right as Twilight turned tail. “At midday? No thanks. I just stopped by to make sure everything went well last night so I’ll be heading out now.”

I get it. Better not be you think my food may be bad.

“Are you heading out?” came the voice of Soul from over in the living room. That Pegasus perched right up onto the cushions with her wings out. Like she was about to fly after somepony. “Is something wrong?”

“No, no. Nothing is wrong. I just can’t hang out right now. I got things to do. Just came to check on you both. But… I will tell you…” Twilight stopped dead in her tracks. Rainbow watched the two ponies smile to one another from across the room. Such a beautiful smile from the alicorn. It was strange. Seeing Twilight be so sweet to such a new pony, and a pony that she knows about. Making Dash hesitate with dropping the pancakes she had held up down onto the plate. Twi really does know something is up.

“I do want to hang out with you later” Twilight said to Soul. “You were a lot of fun to have over yesterday. For somepony that’s been gone for so long, you sure know how to liven up a party.” That was what made Soul pause and Dash raise her brow. “Oh, it was my pleasure” Soul said. “Thanks for letting me join you all.”

Was that even Soul at the party?

“Oh it was no problem at all. Till next time?” Twilight cocked her head.

“Till next time.” That was what made the alicorn step out. Softly. With not another sound before the door closed behind her. Twilight? What happened to you last night?

7.20
“Come sit down” Rainbow called out. Going back to stacking all those pancakes up on the plates. She glanced back to the door. Nothing. Twilight was gone. But Soul was the one who moved. Quickly flying in like she was so eager.

“Almost done” Dash said. All that’s left is… she dropped down so many strawberries on top of each stack and then practically drowned them in whipped cream. She could already feel Soul hovering over her. Staring down at what she had made. “Well they certainly look more colorful than the ones from yesterday” Soul commented. “They’ll taste much better as well” Rainbow said, grabbing both plates atop her hooves. They found a place in front of the stools at the kitchen island. Serving Soul today. I feel so good doing this. “And lastly…” she poured a ladle of syrup over both stacks. There we go. This is my first actual meal for her. The first of many. Dash rubbed her hooves together.

“Rainbow Dash’s world famous pancakes.”

“World famous, huh?” Soul remarked setting herself down on one of the stools. “We’ll see about that.” You’re gonna love them. I made sure to make them extra brown and gave her more strawberries. Those things that Soul was already eyeing. Almost drooling. Dash giggled. I think I did good. I can tell she’s real happy about this. Score!

“But thanks a bunch, Dashie. This is really nice” she said with a smile.

Aww man… I don’t know why I’m blushing at that. Dash had to run her hoof along the back of her head. Hiding her face. This is nothing like making food for anypony else. Just knowing she loves it, that’s reward enough for me. “It was no problem” she muttered. She just took her own seat and a deep breath before she had the courage to look Soul in the eyes and smile at one another. Didn’t last for long. Soul threw herself into the food.

Haha, I guess some things don’t change. She wasn’t as ferocious when she ate yesterday. But Soul was already tearing apart those pancakes. Paying extra attention to the berries, it looked like. Is this because she likes my cooking better? No way. Except that Soul happily groaned. Smiling so deep when she took her moment to down it all. Then Dash looked down.

She’s already done with half of it!

I should get to mine too, and she did. So late in the day, her stomach ached, and turned out these pancakes were actually pretty good. I still got it. Mom taught me well. Been a while since I made something, but I still can tell I’m better than the normal delivery. I want to cook more often. As long as Soul lived here, she should get all the foods that she’s missed all these years. She’ll get them all from me. Cook for both of us… well… Dash paused. You know, I wouldn’t mind making food for somepony else as well. After all, that pony did help out. Like some sort of dinner for all of us? It makes me wonder.

7.21
“What food does Soulblight like?” That was what made Soul stop eating. Almost instantly. Frozen.

Did I say something wrong? “Weird question? I know” Dash admitted. Just a dumb thought I had. Wherever that pony is, I do want to repay her. But she’s left so many questions behind. That moment. Meeting her. So brief, seeing and knowing just what that Pegasus can do. Is she even a Pegasus? She has wings like me. And those eyes of hers. I really do want to know more about her. She didn’t need to leave.

“Well I don’t really know. Food is not something we talk about” Soul actually answered. “And… I’ve never seen her eat. Never got to see what she likes.”

I can tell. She’s not your sister. Soul never had one. Such a mysterious pony. I’ve never met one like her before. But I can tell something. That pony means something to Soul. There is something I don’t know.

“Speaking of which, was she nice to you?” Soul asked.

What? “Wait, you don’t remember how she was? You were there… in that… place.” That place that feels more and more like a dream. Such insane magic. Soul doesn’t know? Soul shook her head. “All I remember is waking up next to you last night… and the words you told me. I still remember them all. I finally know… just how you felt.”

That made Dash look down. Down at her half empty plate. “I’m sorry.” All of that happened so fast. That world. Seeing it all. I just lost control of myself and told her everything. I still have this feeling in my stomach. It’s like a dream. I actually told her everything. The things that nopony else ever knew.

“Don’t be sorry. I know exactly how you felt. I’m glad that I was not the only one. And that it’s all over” Soul said. All over yet so much to do. So much that I don’t want to even think about right now. Just to spend time with her. This time that Soulblight gave to us. I’ll cherish it for as long as I can, until the time comes when we will make everything right. “Soulblight, …she has a really weird way of greeting ponies. I’ve never seen anypony do magic like she was… or whatever that was. She scared me and I just got more and more afraid as it all kept going.” Dash could tell that was making Soul raise her brow. She did not look too happy.

“But… she’s not at all bad. She spoke to me. Told me a lot. A lot of it made no sense. I can tell that she cares about you a lot. I don’t know who she is really or why she can do that. That pony left me with so many questions. But it takes somepony special to show me everything you went through and give me the courage I needed to finally make things right. That I should not be afraid of you. That you were still that pony that I knew as a kid. We both have times when we are weak… and we still are there for one another to help.”

7.22
“She was good company for me in the time I was gone. She has a hard time with other ponies but is a great friend. Kind of like a… teacher, I guess. She was a big reason why I was able to come back here. That’s right, Dashie. I wasn’t able to return here on my own.” “And there’s nothing wrong with that. After what I saw, I can tell why you had it so hard.” Soul put her hooves to the table. “I’m just so glad to finally be back. To feel like I have a chance at having my life back. Thank you, Dashie. Without you and her, …I don’t know what I could do.” Every word that Soul spoke, it was like such sweet melody to Dash’s ears. She really has gone through so much. I can tell just how happy she is. This really is the same Soul Serenity.

“I’ll never leave you behind again” Rainbow said. “From now on, we’re a team again. I’m here to help, and I guess Soulblight is too. I’d love for all three of us to be able to just sit down and talk but I don’t know where she is. Do you?”

“Blight, …she’s a mystery to me. She’s shy and troubled and worried a lot. She may look different, but she is just like you and me. I would love for all three of us to be able to eat together. It’s just hard for her. Right now, I don’t know where she is. She’s still a shy Pegasus. Still, though, she did come to you last night. Maybe she’ll end up trusting you enough to show again. She is a lot of fun and so talented. I know you two can get along.”

That’s a lot to take in. And that’s all about that Pegasus I met last night? Sweet Celestia. Soul sure knows how to make her friends. She never came off as the type of pony who would ever meet somepony like that Soulblight. Almost sounds too good to be true. Such a mystery pony. She’s still a good pony to me. After last night, for sure.

“Well if she’s a friend of yours then she’s a friend of mine.”

7.23
Soul was so quick to eat up the last of her pancakes. Almost viciously. Seems like she has gotten more greedy with food as time went on. Being away from it for so long, she should be. That pony looked so innocent with her happy look to her and cheeks stuffed. “You’re a mess” Dash said. “I guess my cooking was okay?” “Okay? It was the bomb!” Soul winked. “Since when did you get so good at cooking?” She has no idea actually. I think I’m a really good cook. “My mom taught me, you remember her?” Soul nodded. “Time went on and I started making food for my folks” Dash said. “But ever since I moved out, I haven’t really been able to make anything for others. I never feel like making food for me so it feels good to be able to make some for you. I can always do more. I know a ton of recipes.”

I’ll even make dinner for her later. Amything to make this day perfect for her, just like the plans I have for her. “You’d actually make me food?” Soul asked. “Of course, I will. Stuff you’d die for. I’ll have you wrapped around my hoof soon enough once you see what I can make.” Rainbow finished off what was left of her pancakes. They did taste good, Soul probably really did like them. That warmed Dash’s heart as much as her stomach was satisfied. We both ate, that means it’s time.

“How’s about we go outside” she said, reeling back and taking to the air with a quick flap of her wings. Wanting Soul to join her in the air. “I got something planned for us. Just like old times.” Just like old times. “Really? What is it?” “Come outside and see. I know you’ll love it” Dash said. That was when Soul joined her in the air. Flying with those massively powerful wings that just proved to Dash they would so be down for a little fun right now.

Both pegasi flew out onto the cloud porch. No red in the sky or darkness. Just the shining Sun that really did make it out like nothing happened last night. Peaceful and lovely. So many birds singing all around and the glow of the spectral light from all over the house. All underneath this beautiful sky. Didn’t take much to notice that Soul was behind her actually staring out at it all. In awe. This is the world you wanted to come back to. Time we make it like you remember it.

7.24
Rainbow set down upon the puffy white clouds all over her house. Listening to the gentle strum of the running water streams all along her house. Such a warm day. It’s almost begging me now. She could already feel her wings shaking in excitement. It’s a perfect day for it. Dash had to start stretching out her legs.

“So what’d you have in mind?” Soul asked above her. Haha does she really need an explanation? “What do you think?” Dash stretched out her powerful wings with a crack of their bones. Already feeling all the tension gone from them and they were raring to go. Soul laughed. The Pegasus landed down right next to her and she did something that actually made Dash a little shocked at how different this pony was. Soul cracked her neck like it was nothing. So much confidence in her look. Going right to stretching her own legs. You wanna try and prove something to me?” she asked.

She has gotten so confident. She reminds me so much of her when she was a kid. “No, this will be for fun” Rainbow said walking to the edge of the porch. “Just like old times.” Soul walked up beside Rainbow at the edge. Both looking out at the world beyond, and then the wind struck against Dash. Not from the sky but from right next to her where she saw what it was. Soul sighed so pleasantly when she outstretched her wings… as far as they could go. Stretching them… and leaving Dash without anything to say. Not even noticing herself staring. Oh wow… I… haven’t taken the time to really see them much but… hot damn, Soul. Fully stretched, they’re huge. I always thought you were so special to have such impressive wings as a kid but now, like this. Even a mare shouldn’t have wings like you. Such thick and long spans and near countless magenta feathers. They looked to be as thick as Soul was tall. How can anypony have wings like you? All the effort you put in to get them like this.

There are no words. She leaves me speechless.

Every time I look at her, I’m always reminded of how beautiful she is. Even now. Seeing Soul finally noticing and the poor mare backed off a step. “What?” she nervously said. Guess it is weird to stare, you’re just so pretty. I can’t believe how much you have changed. I like it.

“Your wings are pretty cool. I can tell you worked a lot to get those bad boys.” Looked like that really embarrassed Soul more. No telling how hard you worked. “It was a good way to pass some of the time I spent gone, much like the work you’ve done all these years… despite everything.” She’s pointing at my wings? Wait she is actually saying I look good too? Well I... Dash giggled. Don’t make me blush. Idiot.

“Well our previous race was not exactly what I would have in mind for fun so let’s make up for it.” Dash pointed a hoof to the dense expanse of trees marking the Everfree forest off to the right, all across the horizon. “How about we do some maneuvers through the trees, go straight through the forest.” She trailed her hoof across the forest and out to the far-off open fields between the forest and Ponyville and then off to Ponyville itself. Should be an easy path to warm up with. I know it like the back of my hoof. “If you are still good at keeping up, you should be able to follow me through the forest and to the fields. Should be a fun warm up, like old times.” “Sadly for you, I am still damn good at keeping up” Soul said. Then I hope we can both fly together like old times.

I don’t care about winning. Just… flying with you again.

Rainbow and Soul arched their rears up and dug their hooves into the clouds ready to push themselves off. Dash flapped her wings. So ready to go. And Soul… she did the same. Such a fierce look in her eyes. Determination. So different from yesterday. Soul really is like she used to be. How feisty she always was to show off to me and impress others. There is no other pony I’d fly with.

7.25
This feeling again. All the wind hitting me. So strong. Like I’m being wrapped in it and feeling it all come off my wings. Soul flapped them once and then she heard it. The crack of thunder behind her. The sound of all the water along Dash’s house being sent flying, and the warp of air ripping open before her. The same feeling as always. Just another flight except for one thing. She blasted off from the porch with Rainbow Dash next to her.

Such amazing speed. We both can do it. Seeing herself and Dash already blazing right out over the land below and down towards that massive forest. Following where Dash went. Soul felt her so close, knew where she was. Not even needing to look to know they both had the same speed. For now. Even if this is just a flight, Dash still is so capable. It’s amazing how much she’s progressed. That cyan mare already flew out in front of Soul where she had her eyes fixated on that rainbow tail flapping wildly and her mighty cyan wings flapping just as ferociously as Soul’s were. The wash of the air from that pony and feeling the vibrations in the air. I can sense it all. Dash is just as great as always. To think I’m so close to a pony like her. A real honor. I don’t think there’s any other Pegasus out there I’d like to fly like this with. Even if it’s just a short flight to town.

Soul felt it. Dash put plenty of power into her wings just to get in front of her and she just stayed like that. Not getting ahead of me much. Hmm… is she trying to race me or no? I’m not entirely sure what this is. A race or not, I’m glad to fly with her. I’ll even follow her. Besides, she knows she can’t beat me if I tried. Not needed at all. Soul flapped her wings so hard as they flew down into the forest, could always push harder.

Why try to race her? Why should we race? Dash didn’t seem to want to. No, not at all. Maybe she’s thinking what I’m thinking. This is our first flight together in so many years. Our first go at actually doing what we used to do as kids. Even if we’re in this dark forest. Soul side-swiped around quite a thick tree and came back to Dash underneath the thick brush of the leaves shielding the sky above them. Even like this, it’s just like long ago. Flying and dodging clouds together. We used to wathc out for one another up here. Look at us now. Dash, she’s just as accurate as I am. That pony dodged so easily around so many trees and left Soul to do the exact same. Never keeping away from that rainbow tail in front of her.

Just like old times.

7.26
“Hey, doesn’t this remind you of something?” Soul called out and then spun around an entire line of trees. Rolling and spinning out through the thickets of vines and branches. The forest getting even more dense. “Something that we used to do?” Dash asked back. Does she know? “You talking about camp?” She does. Haha those were the days. Soul laughed, eyes closed, still able to feel it coming. Still able to dodge around what she could tell was such a threatening tangle of spined vines. She opened her eyes back up and saw Dash staring back at her, still flying and dodging trees like nothing was different.

“When we did training together there. We used to do these obstacle things, remember?” Soul said. “Yeah” Dash giggled, turning back to see where she was going again. Probably doesn’t even need to look where she’s going. “We always helped each other out up in those skies. Those were the days. Man… we were kids back then. A lot has changed.” “Yeah, like I can tell you have gotten somewhat better at flying” Soul said. Dash gave a kick of her wings and a thunderous clap struck Soul. Right as that rainbow-maned mare weaved through what would look like a wall of trees. She saw it too, so do I. Soul spun herself. Wing to the ground, the other to the sky. Squeezing right through the same hole Dash had flown her way through. Piece of cake. Still right on Dash’s tail. “Maybe you’ve gotten better too” Dash said back.

So much has changed. We were both great flyers back then but we always helped each other. I even showed you the move, and I can see you have mastered it. We don’t even need to help one another anymore. Separated for twelve years and we both progressed without the other. It’s sad to see how different we are. We’ve both grown up and gotten to these points… without one another.

But that doesn’t matter anymore. Even if we are both already master flyers, I wouldn’t want it any other way than to fly with you. Racing or following you. I love it either way. It’s like we aren’t even in the forest and my wings are just doing their own thing. Just you and me together. Flying like we did as fillies, and now we’re both mares flying the same way. You used to follow me and I helped you. Soul stared at the tail in front of her. Now I follow you, and you want to help me. You are still so nice… even if you’ve changed everywhere else.

Soul looked down. Right under that rainbow tail. Flapping and waving, …she could see under that tail… and she felt herself smiling. Really changed…

7.27
“Alrighty!”

Soul shook her head, hearing Dash’s voice and then… she felt it. The air rumbled so slightly. Feeling it along her wings right before it happened. Dash turned. Such a sharp turn around the trees and her tail went off. What am I…?

Soul banked hard left, almost right behind Dash. Not even the sound of Dash’s wing flap could be heard before Soul already rounded that tree and followed on with Dash in her sight. That pony looking back with a smile. “Nice move! Almost like you knew what I was gonna do.”

Yeah… though I almost missed it. Dash turned back and Soul… she put a hoof to her head. What… what is with me. She looked again then away. Oh Celestia. I don’t know why… my heart is pounding.

Turned hard left. Must be heading towards the town now. Just flying through the many trees of this forest and never losing her short distance away from Dash. Wings flaps almost in synch with one another. But Soul kept her eyes on Dash’s head. I don’t know why I did that. I’ve never looked… at Dash… there. She had to shake her head again. Shit… am I going crazy? I mean she’s been very sweet to me and I… she is that pony I remember. Yeah, she’s still that same pony. Nothing has changed. Even saying that she loves me.

Hehe… better finish this flight. Soul just felt herself bob for a moment. Kind of getting distracted. Can’t be long now, right? Haha and I don’t know why stuff is running through my head. It’s just Rainbow Dash. The pony I’ve always wanted to be with again and here we are together again. Flying like normal. Yup, nothing has changed.

She’s my best friend.

Soul blinked. It really is a short flight. Her ears twitched. The air, a break in it. Not far off. We’re getting close to being out of here. Flying straight and true with Dash right in her sights.

I always used to watch her when we were kids. She was such a rowdy and careless flyer a lot. And she was always so innocent when she flew. But she had power in her. Now look at her. She’s as tall as the adults were back then. Long, strong legs and powerful wings. Her mane and tail, the most beautiful colors of this world flowing so gently in the wind. That was the thing about her flying. It’s gentle. Peaceful.

Flying is freedom. It’s strength and determination. And I see it all in her. Confidence in her flying. Beauty in it. An elegance that… I have. Rainbow has changed so much. She’s a mare just like me and I… I admire her. I appreciate her. Both of us flying together. They both flew out as one through the trees and into the vast sky above the rolling fields below. Onwards to the houses beyond. To Ponyville. Like I’m no longer in that darkness and back… I Equestria.

The words you told me last night, like I can feel safe again. I’m home. Just thinking about it, she makes my heart race. Why?

7.28
Soul had to snap out of it again. Stop it! Just stop. I don’t know why I… feel this. I’ve felt so different since last night. What Blight did for me and what Dash said to me. The world is different. It’s not what it was.

I thought I was alone and never would know what it was like to be home again. But here I am. Together again. Like when we were fillies in Equestria and I always wanted to hug you. Now we’re mares together again and now I want to…

No! She’s still that same pony. It’s still Rainbow Dash, my best friend. We may have changed but not our feelings. Right? Did I ever feel this way? Just wanting to be with you again. Soul looked up to that pony again. So close. Really just one strong flap and I’ll be right next to her with how close we are. My wingpony. My best friend. I… Soul felt herself blushing. She’s so much to me. I don’t think she’ll mind if I thank her.

We’re slowing down. I think we’ll be safe enough.

All it did take was a simple flash of her wings. Flying right in at the pony ahead of her, and Soul held her hooves out. “Dashie!” Right before Rainbow could even turn back to see her coming.

Soul wrapped her hooves around the pony. Clasping her so tight and keeping her still in her grasp. Rainbow could only yelp in surprise. Freezing her wings up and both of them flew forward. Almost like it would be a crash. Soul held her wings out. Giving one more flap. That’s slow enough. I won’t let go. She smiled and set her head against Dash’s chest right as both of them slammed into the ground.

Soul felt herself shake and legs did a small scrape along the ground but her wings flapped once more and shot the air out across the fields. The push it took to slow them down and tumble together. Both came to a halt.

7.29
Rainbow stared up to the sky. Everything held still, just a small shock across her body. Nothing hurts. She… Soul was able to stop us? How strong are her wings to stop both of us? And I can’t believe she did that. She looked down upon the pony. Soul down there, hugging against Dash’s chest. Laying on top of her with Dash’s back to the ground. Hugging so tight, and Soul was smiling so deeply into Dash’s fur. She really did do that. Sheesh, Soul. Dash let her head fall back to the ground… and she giggled. I think I made Soul happy.

“This is the type of stuff I’d expect kids to do” Dash said. Pulling me out of the air just to hug me. Goof. But Soul never let go down there. Dash gasped when she felt Soul’s head slink up against the bottom of her chin. Oh wow, I uh… Dash glanced left and right. Yup this is the real world. So different from yesterday. Soul is actually doing this? This is like… when we were kids. Even Soul nodded down there.

Dash laid back. Not even moving. Just laying there with Soul still laying on top. I think she’d even fall asleep like this. Soul was breathing so softly. At total ease. She has changed. More than just her appearance. She’s really back to the pony I used to know. I never thought the day would come when her and I would be this way again. We even got to fly together. I really do feel like we have gone back in time. “Are we kids again?” Rainbow asked.

I think we are. Flying together and hugging like this. Such a closeness I’ve not felt with anypony in years. Of course, it would be Soul who would make me feel this way. Such a dork.

Soul couldn’t even answer. Not before Dash made her own move. Here you go! Dash shoved her hoof right into the top of Soul’s head. Burrowed into her mane till she felt the skin beneath. Take this. That was when Soul nearly jumped when Dash gave her that noogie. If we’re kids again, then you’re mine right now. Dash laughed and those magenta hooves flailed out at Dash’s leg. The pony squirming and grunting. “Stop it!” Soul raised her voice with a short giggle. Not a chance. You look so silly like this. Soul going wild like this trying to make it stop, laughing and groaning. Just making her mane even more of a mess.

“You’ll have to make me” Dash said. Closing her eyes for a moment but not letting up. This is kinda fun. I think you’re the only pony I can do this to.

Not for long. Dash gasped when her hoof was forced away. Feeling the air wash over her and opening her eyes up to see Soul’s huge wings blasting out above her. Then the magenta pony rushed in. Her hooves came down and pushed Dash’s legs away. Shoving her entire body down upon Dash’s shoulders, couldn’t even try to move them now. It didn’t hurt but impossible to do anything. Dash laughed. Damn, she got me. Staring up at the pony above her. Soul completely blocking the Sun with it’s shining rays bleeding over her and her vast wings, and the way she smiled. Such joy in her face. Dash had to smile back. Seeing her have fun, it makes my day.

7.30
Soul felt her smile go away. Dash had closed her eyes. She kept laughing. Even pinned down like this, she’s happy. I don’t think I’ve ever done this before. Standing over her. Staring down at her, laying between my legs. I don’t know. Did we ever do this as kids? I think… I’d remember. Looking down at a Pegasus like this. With the sweetest smile and laugh. The slightest burst of sunlight coming over her, and her long mane so gently rippling along the grass beneath her. Soul couldn’t laugh anymore. Couldn’t feel the joy. No. Not when seeing this.

I feel my heart… going crazy. I’ve never… realized that she is… beautiful.

It’s like something is stuck in my throat. Looking at her… and I’m on top of her! Oh no, should I move? I uh… Soul looked off and then back down at the pony. I don’t know. Just her and I together like this. She’s so sweet and happy now. I’m happy. But it’s strange.

Dash is such a nice friend. Such a sweet and beautiful mare. She told me everything about her. I know it all and now… now I can’t stop staring. Looking up and down her slender body. Dash I um… I should probably stop this. Or should I? She’s happy and I… I want to get closer. It feels just like when she kissed me last night.

Why do I have that feeling now?

“Why’s your face all red?”

7.31
Dash stared at her. Soul is… she’s blushing? The mare even had to blink twice up there and it was like something snapped in Soul. Right before Soul almost fell right back off of Dash. So frantic. Dash had to sit back up. Watching Soul roll off of her and then sit up… with her back to Dash.

Was that wrong? Soul… she was so flushed. Like she was somewhere else. Is she okay? Hope she’s not getting sick. “My face isn’t red” Soul blurted out from behind her mane. Just how she said it, she sounds so confused over there. Dash got up on all fours. Standing over Soul. She glanced past her, trying to look over her shoulder. Soul’s mane was too long. But I think I know what’s up… and Dash smiled.

I get it. Your face was red, Soul. I’m flattered.

7.32
What the hell was that supposed to be. Soul held a hoof to her lips. Rainbow is right behind me and I can feel her staring at me. I’m acting like a total idiot. But I… I just don’t understand why. Why did I feel that. And it’s not going away. Soul planted her hoof to the ground. Shaking her head. Shit, I don’t get it. Acting like this and she caught me. I just know she saw me staring.

Come on, Soul! She’s my best friend!

Looking at her like that. Knowing everything she told me. We’re like this again. It’s like we are back in time again, but I never felt this back then. We were so close before, and all this time I just wanted to see her again. Now that I have… what now? What is making me… see her differently? It all changed since last night.

“I’m. I’m just fine” she said. Rainbow laughed back there. What? Soul almost looked back but stopped herself. My face is still so hot. I just… Soul groaned. Damn it. “You look really funny when you’re blushing” that was what Rainbow said and made Soul want to just fall to the ground. Oh my Celestia, she saw! I can just die now, please. Soul smacked her hoof to her face and pulled her mane down as well. Please just don’t make fun of me. I don’t know why this happened. It’s so weird for me.

Soul heard hooves. Dash walking over to her. She wants to see me, doesn’t she? Oh… Soul closed her eyes. I’m sorry. How was I supposed to react when I saw you like that? Not every day I can get you on the ground with… wait, what am I thinking!? I just… Soul froze when she felt it run through her mane. Such a soft feeling.

“What are you doing?”

Soul looked and saw Dash’s hoof running through her mane. Pulling up the long silver hairs and doing something with them. So gentle. “Fixing up your mane. I know you like it in your style and it’s a real mess right now” Rainbow said.

Why is she doing this? She could just laugh at me and tease and all that but… no. She felt Dash standing behind her, softly strumming her hooves all along Soul’s head. Can even give me a noogie. She’s taking care of me? But I can fix my own mane. I totally can, yet I’m not stopping her. Maybe it was how soft it was. Such a lovely tingle running down Soul’s back and made her shiver.

She watched her loose hairs being pulled away out from in front of her face. Dash’s hoof coming over and straightening it all out. Such a lovely touch. She’s actually making my mane perfect. Soul saw her hairs brought back down over the side of face. Just a bit over the eye. Some mock brushing Dash did using her hooves. But she knows exactly how I style my mane. Wow. It feels so nice, even nicer to know she is doing this for me.

I… my face doesn’t feel hot anymore.

“Thanks for fixing it” Soul said. Dash straightened out the rest of the hair just as she said that. All fixed up from that messup from earlier. It was sweet of her. Soul wasn’t even afraid anymore when Dash walked out in front of her. “No problem. We gonna get going now that you’re presentable again?”

7.33
Rainbow didn’t even say anything more on that, she even just took to the air and started to float off towards the town. Leaving Soul to hesitate. Wait, what? Soul cocked her head, flapping her wings once. Staring at the back of Rainbow’s head and she found herself blindly staring now. I thought she would have more to say. Maybe she doesn’t really care about how I was. “What… are we doing?”

“Well we’re gonna meet up with the others later” Rainbow started. The others! Soul stopped her right there, even making Dash slow down when she raised her voice. “Are they… upset with me over something? About the party?” After all that chaos yesterday, I can’t see why else they’d all want to see me. I hope everything is okay cuz I really have no explanation on what happened.

“No. They’re worried about you so we’re just gonna talk to them.” Rainbow stopped and turned to face Soul. “Talk to them about you and everything.”

“What do you mean?”

Rainbow dropped her gaze down. The look on her face, she was serious now. That made Soul hold her breath. This means what I think it means?

“We need to tell them everything. They know something is up and actually want to help you so I think they should know everything about you, how you’re not a murderer, and… introduce your sister, …formally. They need to see it all.”

So that’s where it’s at now, huh? Finally at that point. That was all what hit her so hard. Soul stared down to the ground. I knew someday I would have to come clean to everypony here. I didn’t know how and when, just that it needed to happen if I wanted my home back. It’s this soon? I already need to tell ponies about it all. But what if I’m not ready? That sent a chill down her spine. Learn about what I did and who I am. What I went through. Blight. What should I even do?

Blight?

Nothing. Silence. Blight? Oh no, don’t tell me you’re being this way right now.

She won’t say anything. No, this is all on me. I wanted to be the one to change things. “What if they don’t believe me?” Soul asked. “They will, trust me. And you got Soulblight to back you up” Dash was almost proud to say all that. Yeah, easier said than done. And Blight wasn’t saying anything. I don’t think she’d want to show up to all those ponies. “Why do they need to see Blight?”

“Because we need to explain how you did nothing wrong and Soulblight is the one who showed me the truth. She’s our best way to do that. Don’t worry, they’re all very understanding and will hear you both out, especially when they see what I saw last night. Besides, if you plan on living here, I bet we’ll all come to know your sister eventually.”

7.34
Well at least Dash thinks I have a future here. But, it’s so much harder than she thinks. She’s literally wanting me to just tell these ponies everything. Blight? Answer me, please. She’s been so quiet.

“I don’t think she will be there to talk to them” Soul softly admitted. “She’s not that good at socializing. And I don’t know what it is she showed you, but… I don’t think she’ll do it again.” Knowing Blight, I can’t imagine what magic she used. No. I think I’m on my own in this. Just like I wanted. This day was gonna come. Dashie is with me again and now this. This moment.

I do wonder if they’ll believe me.

“I know what you mean. Yeah… probably not a good idea for that all to happen again. Okay, how’s about we just convince them ourselves? Both of us at once, they’ll have to believe you” Dash said. Yet somehow, I think this is the right thing to do. So much has changed. So quickly. MY feelings and my world. Can this change too?

“You really think they’ll believe me?” “Soul, I’ll be right there with you. I know what I saw and they’ll believe me. I don’t think they will doubt you. Not after they see the pony that you are.” Dash floated closer to Soul. That warmth of the air from her wing flaps so gently gliding over Soul like those gentle words. “They’ll come to know the pony that I know. There’s nothing to be afraid of. Not anymore.”

Dashie. Soul smiled. She really thinks so? Well I… I can’t say no. Not when I’ve come so far. This time was coming. “I think I’m ready to meet them now.”

“Not now. Don’t worry, we’ll meet them later today so you got plenty of time to just relax” Dash said. Just her and I together for the day. I couldn’t ask for anything better. This mare is the one I’d be happy to spend all my time with. Everything is going to change. “Maybe… I can give you a little tour of the town for a while. There’s a lot to see. Ponyville is a great place to look around” Dash suggested and that sounded so pleasant.

“I’d love to.” Soul finally got up on her wings and joined Dash in the air. That beautiful and kind Pegasus, spending the day with her, it might be just like old times. Old times. Like my life is coming back. Such a lovely take of this world to return to. Not alone. No. It made Soul so happy when Rainbow set her foreleg around the back of her neck. Guiding her to join. Flying off towards the town. This town that might become my home.

“Come on, Soul.”

7.35
This place is pretty amazing. I saw it all before but it’s kind of like seeing it all over again. Ponyville is a lot different from Cloudsdale. Or what I remember from Cloudsdale. Like when do ponies just give you free food for being a new member of the town? That never happened in Cloudsdale. And it seemed like everypony was happy to see me. Though… they all were so nice to me when I first arrived here the other day.

Funny though. All these nice ponies here. Seeing so many just doing their normal routine. So many, and the day is almost done and I haven’t seen Twilight or anypony else all day. No, this was an entire day with Rainbow Dash. Relaxing and flying around. Like nothing to worry about. Like all my fears were gone for an entire day. Plus it’s always nice to be so close to her. Even now.

Rainbow stretched her wings out next to her. Sprawling herself out upon the bench both of them shared. “I’m pretty beat with all that flying around we did” she said. “It was still nice to spend that time with you.” Rainbow looked over at Soul with a genuine smile. So sweet of her. I enjoy it too. Any moment with you. Just hearing her say this stuff to me, she makes the fur on my back stand up. This happiness that I feel. Back in time. Yet I don’t ever remember feeling this happy when I was a kid.

She makes me even want to reach out and pull her against me. Close the gap between us. Like if she could rest in my lap or something. Oh, I don’t know if that’s too much for her. That is what made Soul not make a move. “I’m glad I spent it with you as well” Soul said. Not good enough to show her how thankful I am.

Rainbow has been the nicest pony to me. My best friend. Doing everything she can to make it like I’m back home. A simple life again. One where I can reach for my dreams. I don’t understand why she is doing it. All the things she said to me. Do I really mean that much to her?

She confuses me.

Something about all this means so much more than normal. Like life is back to what I dreamed of. Even for a moment. This moment with Rainbow Dash. As the evening comes in and nothing to worry about at all. Both pegasi sitting here under the orange glow of the Sun and in an empty street where not one thing stirred. Just her and I. This moment is so much different than normal. It really does make me feel. Still, I wonder…

Does she feel the same?

7.36
I’m not stupid. I know what this is. Things have changed so much. We used to sit together long ago and it felt like normal. I’m sitting with her now and I feel so strange. I can’t stop looking over at her. Hearing those words she said to me. How beautiful she is. Dash not even noticing. Too busy looking out upon the sky. It’s like something has changed with her too. A pony this devoted to wanting me happy after all those things she said. Dashie… I wish I knew what to do.

Soul set a hoof upon her chest. Staring down at it. Lowering her eyes. Can’t believe I’m even wondering this. Would she even like me? I… I don’t even know if she likes… mares.

I’m really kind of nervous now.

Dash broke that when she jumped off from the bench. “Tell you what, I’ll get us some ice cream to help us relax. Do you like any particular flavor?” Soul glanced at her with glistening eyes, so many thoughts running through her head. “I’d like chocolate. Thank you, Dashie.” “It’ll be so sweet” Rainbow beamed and walked off towards a line of shops. Soul’s eyes were set on every stride she took walking away from her.

“What should I do?”

“Wazzup?”

Soul almost fell right off with a shriek. Shit! Who is… she looked. Greeted by that dorky smile and piercing yellow eyes. The pony sitting on the bench with her. Soulblight.

Almost gave me a heartattack. I thought somepony was spying on me. Well… I’m glad to see her. “Sheesh… Blight. Stop scaring me. Where have you been all this time?” Soul looked her up and down. Same, old Blight. Huh… how pitch black she was but she looks normal now in the sunlight. I remember her… how dark she was all around her. Guess my eyes were messing with me or something. The Pegasus actually sat with her on the bench like nothing was wrong. Making herself comfortable. “I didn’t want to get in the way of your day with Dash. You two need to catch up on lost time.”

Hmm… still wish she would talk to me every now and then. But here she finally is. Out here with me. Wait. “What are you doing out here like this? Somepony may see you, you know.” Soul glanced around to see. Nopony was here in this little corner of the silent street between the many houses.

Blight rolled her eyes. “Your head is much too cramped and way too noisy. All I hear is stuff like ‘Oh Dashie, you’re so beautiful.’ You’re too adorable, Soul.”

What did she say? “I don’t say that!” Soul shouted. Almost feeling herself about to flush. Oh Celestia… she is too nosy. I totally forgot she is up there. How much does she even know? Soul looked over to her… eyes so down like some sort of defeated puppy. Blight didn’t do anything. She just smiled. Almost innocently. So is she okay with it? “How much do you know?” Soul whispered.

“So you think I might be shocked or something? Please. Before I say anything, Soul, you do what you want. I’m your best friend after all and I’ll support you. I’m not dumb… and I can tell how much things have changed between you and her. I’m not judging at all.”

What is she saying!? Now Soul was blushing. No, no, she can’t possibly be saying what I think cuz I don’t know if that’s… that’s how it is. I don’t know if that’s how I feel because… “I don’t know what this feeling is.”

7.37
Blight was silent. Soul sat with her. Looking over and then back down at her own hooves. My heart is racing. Just all these thoughts. My life is changing so much and I don’t know how to take it. Blight did so much for me and I said I wanted to deal with all this myself. She’s the only other pony I trust. And I still feel I need to come to her for help. I need somepony to talk to.

“Blight, can I talk to you?” A black wing came down over her. Along her back, it pulled Soul in. Blight so gently bringing Soul to lay against her side. So much change. My feelings and my world. Even Blight feels warm like she did before. “Nopony is around” Blight said. “I’ll listen to you.”

“I uh…” Soul clasped her hooves against Blight. Holding on to her. This entire world… it’s not the same. “I’m scared” Soul said.

“I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I thought all this time I just wanted to have my best friend back. Hug her again and apologize. Just be in her life again. Why… why was it not enough? I don’t get it. She said those things to me and it made my heart race. I couldn’t breathe. She made it out like I am the most important pony in her life. She never even made it out like that back when we were kids… yet I meant that much to her? She always was the one who made me smile as a kid. She was the one to stand with me when I was all alone. She was the first pony who made me feel wanted. So why now… do I feel so much more than all those times? I look at her now and I can’t look away from her. I see my best friend and… something more. Like a pony who always wanted me to be a part of her. What happened?”

Soul looked up. She felt her heart skip a beat. Blight… glancing down from the corner of her eyes above her. It was like the entire world had froze in an icy chill. Split in the light… of a burning Sun shining from her eyes. As bright as the Sun but as cold as night. Even if she smiled… Soul felt it. Something deep inside those eyes looking at her.

“We are such strange creatures” Blight said. “So much can change for us. Our feelings and views on this world. All changing with what we desire out of it. Sometimes for the worse. Or, in your case, for the better. You spent so much of your life alone and now you have ponies with you. But there was always one who was with you from the start. And I think you now saw she never truly left you.” Rainbow never went on without thiking about me. She never truly abandoned me.

“I know it’s strange for you. But I think you need to listen to what your heart is telling you. Not just down there… but here too.” Soul flinched when Blight tapped a hoof to Soul’s forehead. Staring so deeply into her eyes. “You’ve seen it and you know it. There was always a pony who was with you. That very pony you wished for to be the one who you could dream of spending all your time with. She was with you twelve years ago and is once again. I’ll just say this.”

Blight sighed. Closing her eyes so gently and a black hoof slowly sifted through Soul’s mane. Soul felt a tear coming in.

“Don’t be afraid of what it is you desire.”

What I desire. Ever since I was sent away twelve years ago, there was only one thing I desired. I thought I had it when I came back. All I wanted was that pony back in my life. How in my life? She was the first pony I ever held. The first one I wanted to be close to. The first one I loved. And she loves me… too.

7.38
I know what I want.

“We’re both mares, though. I don’t even know if she feels the same.” That tear finally fell. “What if she doesn’t love me like that?” She told me she loves me but I… she makes me feel different. So nice to me and doesn’t care about any of my faults. She sees me as a special pony to her. How does she feel?

“Rainbow Dash is your best friend. She shows so much kindness and care to you. I truly believe she would understand your feelings. It would not be right for you to continue hiding exactly how you feel. …I’ll leave it up to you but you should not hide it anymore now that you can have your dream of a pony that will be there with you through anything.”

“I’m so scared” Soul said rubbing a hoof up and down her other forehoof. Rainbow has done so much for me. She was the first pony to ever call me a friend. She was the one who gave me purpose to go through that hell that no othe pony could survive. To stand with the cyan Pegasus who gave her life purpose. Throughout all the blood and snow, all the terrors of the night, the loneliness; it was always Rainbow Dash who stood there looking back at me begging me to go forward to get to this point where I could actually reach out and touch her. To the time when I could hear just how much we both mean to one another. It takes a special pony to do that to me, and I know how I feel. She said she loves me.

“I love her too.”

That was all that could be heard in the silent air of this calm street. Where only the black mist stirred and Soul was left alone once more.

7.39
There she is. Rainbow did not take long. The Pegasus trotted over on silent steps along the dirt path. Looked like she did what she set out to do, holding two ice cream cones wrapped in one of her legs. I’m on my own again. Blight isn’t here to help me. Just me and this pony. The pony that came up and sat back down next to Soul. Handing over one of those cones. Double scooped and covered in a lot of chocolate sauce. “For you.”

She really did buy this for me. So sweet. Soul accepted it in her own hooves. Looking down upon it and just marveling over how it looked. Looks just like I remember ice cream to look. “Thank you.”

Rainbow laid down next to her and started furiously licking away at her ice cream. Just Dash and I alone here, eating ice cream. Just like back in the day when we always hung out alone just letting the day go by. And back then, I always couldn’t stop thinking about how much I liked Dash for doing that with me. To think it would lead to this. Blight is gone, and I know what it is that I feel. Soul took a look over at that pony. Dash didn’t even notice. She was too busy eating away. So messy, leaving ice cream all over her soft lips, but she was so delicate with it. A little smile on her face that came up every now and then. Licking her lips and then going back at it. Those same lips.

Soul felt a little tingle along her skin. Over her face. I still feel it. She finally did kiss me back. That little desire I wanted long ago. I didn’t know how happy it would make me.

It actually took Soul some time before she finally made the first lick on her ice cream. It’s so good. Really does remind me of the foods I missed. This really is the life. I got to sleep with my best friend, I get to eat the foods I missed, and I get to fly through my home land again. It’s so simple. How I always wanted it back. This happiness it makes me feel, kind of just makes me want to shout out how much I love it all. How much I love the pony who did this for me. Hehe… out here. No way. But… Dashie is sort of in leg’s reach. I can pull her close to me. Nopony is in sight. I can. She didn’t.

One wrong word… I don’t know if I should. Are these feelings real? I always wanted Dash back and always loved being around her. To think it would change to this. Soul looked back to Dash from the corner of her eyes. Rainbow’s ice cream disappeared. All gone. The pony sat there… staring at Soul.

Huh…?

Dash quickly turned away. She was staring at me. Watching me. Soul felt her face redden. She quickly looked away holding a hoof over her cheeks. Oh my… I… I didn’t expect that. She could still feel Dash behind her looking away. Why is she so shy now? Was I doing something weird? Here I am acting weird, oh no.

“You like your ice cream?” she head Dash mutter back there. Dashie, …are you trying to hide something like I am? I think I’m not blushing anymore. Soul turned back around. Dash still hadn’t. But Soul caught it down below. A swoosh of colors along the air. Rainbow’s tail wagged against the bench a little. Soul giggled inside.

I think… I may have the courage to ask her. She’d understand, right? It’s just a question of how she feels. Besides… Dash has been acting weird lately. “Yeah… I love it.” Soul went back at it. Surprising herself with how quick she made that ice cream disappear. A miracle she didn’t get brain freeze. We have some time. We can at least talk. “I…”

Rainbow yawned next to her. “Jeez, I really did have a bad night’s sleep. I got nothing to do ‘till Twilight and the others show up. So…” Soul’s heart skipped a beat when Dash scooched back. Her butt going against Soul’s side and then the mare laid back… against Soul… and she pushed Soul down to lay with her atop the bench. Rolling over and almost curling herself up on top of Soul’s stomach. Letting her wings relax. Completely covering Soul up. Just happy to lay on her. Laying on me like she’s a cat? What? Dash just grinned down there with such mischief in her eyes.

“What’s up with you?”

Rainbow shifted her head slightly. “I’m sleepy, duh.” Soul giggled. Of course. Such a dork. Soul even laid back, herself. Staring up into the open sky above. Not even a single Pegasus pony flew the skies. All she could feel was Dash wrapping her hooves around Soul’s sides and her soft fur all over. Using me like a bed. Celestia’s sake.

“You know something, Soul. You’ve really opened up since the other day. You were quite a nervous wreck” Rainbow said. Soul smiled. “Well you’ve gotten much sweeter since the other day. You were a bit scary then.” “Oh you know me. It’s just how I am when some smartass Pegasus challenges me to flying” Rainbow said. Yeah… and that’s something I like about you. You know how to be strong. Not even afraid to lay here with me. I think you’re the only pony I’d do this with.

“And… I was a bit sleepy after that flying” Dash yawned. Whatever she says, but things are different now. Days ago, we’d never do this. But now Dash is down there and she’s fallen asleep on top of me. Such a child. Hehe… and I love her. Soul also closed her eyes.

7.40
“Hey, wake up gals.”

Soul opened her eyes. The Sun was still up. Did I pass out? Probably not for long. Long enough. Two ponies stood over her. Soul had to blink a couple times and saw that it was them. Twilight and Applejack. Standing tall with the Sun over the farm pony’s hat. Just enough light to see both of the mares smiling down at her. AJ even chuckled a little. What’s so funny?

Soul rose her head up and saw the rainbow hairs laying along her. Oh yeah. Dash snored on top of her. She’s out cold.

“Hey, you two” Soul greeted them. Putting a hoof out to push against Dash’s shoulder and that is what made the pony stir. Groaning under her mane.

“Well, looks like you two have been getting along” Twilight said. Soul could feel herself start to blush. And what does that mean? We’re just napping together. “Hey, …we were tired” Rainbow maoned in such a drowsy voice. Slowly slinking herself up from Soul’s soft fur and rubbing her eye. She looks so tired and irritated. Guess I was comfy. Soul giggled. Rainbow did not share in that. She so slowly got up with so much desire in her eyes to go back to bed. “Why wake me up?”

“I thought you wanted all of us to talk. It’s kind of late in the day” Twilight said. That made Soul also sit up. That time already!

“Did you happen to get everypony?” Dash muttered. “Yes, they’re eating at Pinkie’s” Twilight said.

“Great, we all should talk now” Rainbow yawned so loudly before getting off the bench. Reaching back first to set a hoof on Soul’s shoulder. Like she didn’t even look tired anymore. Such care on her face. “You ready?”

This is something I have been fearing for so long now. I don’t think I could do this without Dashie. That’s the thing. I’m not by myself with this. Soul had the courage to nod. Rainbow loves me. When I never thought it could happen. Maybe it’s true. This is a world I can live in again. For ponies to accept me… again.

7.41
Rainbow was the one to force open the door. Like she was eager to step inside of this Sugarcube Corner shop. Even AJ and Twilight followed right on her tail, but Soul paused. Looking up the outside all along the brightly alluring sight of this place with all its cakes and pastries in the windows. She sighed. No point in delaying it. I put myself into this. She stepped in. First time inside. Why was she even surprised to see this place looked exactly like it did on the inside as it did on the outside?

A real sweets shop. As intricately designed for that role as it could be. Like the entire place looked like a cake with the colors and décor and even something that reminded her of whipped cream coming down along the walls, and all over was so many desserts. Tables covered in platters of colorful cupcakes, cabinets filled with candy and cake decorations… so many candle stacks, even a pair of huge cakes sitting at the counter which stood along the entire end of this room. Wow, Cloudsdale had no sweets shop like this. And Dashie gets to come here whenever she wants. Lucky.

So this is where I will finally reveal myself.

Came too soon,… they were all here. Empty tables along the floor but a few of them was were other ponies sat.

Rarity. Fluttershy. Pinkie.

Then Soul realized she truly was in here with all six of them, about to confess to it all. They all will know. These are all the ponies I’ve met, I’ve seen and heard. The only ones who have even tried to get to know me in this town. The ones that Dash says will be happy to be my friends. Will they after they learn about me?

“Soul, sweetie. Good to see you’re doing well” Rarity said. So happy to see me and none of them know how scared I am to see them. “Thank you” Soul said, looking to Dash who motioned towards one of the tables. The one where Pinkie sat at and two seats were left open there. Soul did as she suggested followed right by Dash, both of them taking a seat there. So silent in here. Soul could feel the air was heavy. Or was it just so hard to breathe?

This day is a lot for me. All these feelings and all these surprises. Now… I see it. I wanted to get my life back, it’s being left up to me to do it. Here and now. Even so, I don’t know what to say.

Applejack came over as well to take a seat at the other table. Twilight stood by the door, and that was it. All of us are here. Everypony is looking at me. “So tell us Dash, what you get Twilight to gather us all up for?” Applejack asked. That was when the butterflies rushed through Soul’s stomach. Dash really did have this all planned. She’s so confident. Even strong in her voice when she cleared her throat. Soul watched the Pegasus stare across all of them and could tell that Dash was still nervous. A tiny flicker in her eyes. Those eyes that looked at Soul first. What’s wrong? The cyan Pegasus didn’t even do a thing. This gaze both of them shared. To know this time had come. I’m so scared and she’s scared too. There was something else in Dash too. That steely gaze and strong stance.

Confidence.

Soul nodded to her.

7.42
“Well guys, I think we should all know exactly what’s going on” Rainbow finally broke the silence.

“What’s going on? I didn’t think anything was wrong” Fluttershy spoke up. They all nodded. Really? So none of them suspected a thing. Except for one thing that drew Soul’s attention. Twilight made not a single move. She didn’t even blink. Even with all the others gripped in wonder. I did a good job hiding myself from them. For the most part. Twilight isn’t stupid. I think they all will find out eventually.

“Well…” Dash paused.

Silence. So Dash is having a hard time saying it. What, is she scared of how I might react? She should be after how I’ve been acting lately. I hid myself from everypony and was so afraid of Dash and I thought the worst of it all. I thought Dash was somepony else. How childish of me. They will find out about me eventually. Everypony, even Dashie, will learn everything about me eventually. And there was one thing I need to remember about myself. I was taught to be strong.

What good is a strong body without a strong self?

Soul set her hoof upon the table. “Guys” she said suddenly. Rainbow and the others turned their attention to her. They’re all looking at me. Me, the pony the think they know. But really just a pony who wants her life back. What better way… than to introduce myself?

“I want you guys to know my name.”

“What are you talking about, silly? We already know your name” Pinkie said.

Heh, well I didn’t do it properly last time. Soul shook her head. Here we go. “The truth is… my name is Soul …Serenity.” She felt her ears twitch just from saying that. Hearing it in her own voice. Soul Serenity. Soul Serenity. So long since I’ve said my full name to anypony. As a kid, nopony really cared. It’s just another name. These aren’t those times anymore. So… what do ponies think now?

Soul looked around, only Twilight glanced at the others. Dash bit her lip. That… was it.

Rainbow was right. Nopony knows who I am.

7.43
“That’s a nice name” Pinkie said.

“So none of you really know who I am?” Soul asked. The other four… they just looked at one another. So confused. It really is true. Rainbow walked up to stand next to Soul. “May I?” she asked. Soul let her beath go. I’ve been holding it in this whole time? Just because her heart was going wild. So much that it hurt. Took so much just to say my name, so much that my whole body aches. She just wanted to lay down and let it all go away. So Dash wants to try too? Soul nodded.

“Soul was… she was sent away a long time ago. She never left to go train in other lands. She was sent away because…”

She’s gonna say it. That horrible night. All coming back. Soul’s eyes shut tighter. Twelve years… ponies will now know what I had to deal with. Yet none of them will ever be able to feel what it did to me.This fear alone, just to say my own name.

“She was blamed for killing two ponies” Dash said as fast as she could. The mare almost fell over, seeing that her legs were shaking just from saying it. This is hard for her too. Even Soul felt her wings tremble. “She… was banished for it. We can’t lie to you all anymore. She was gone all this time because… because Celestia sent her away. She was gone all this time when she was never the one who did it.”

It was like they were all stuck in time. None of them moved. Just Dash. She looked so serious. Just a ruse. Her legs were shaking badly. Even her voice had gotten strained when she spoke. This whole world coming to a stop. When it all stood still, and Soul could feel the terror in her heart. The need to pull her mane down over her face, but she didn’t. Just that nervously subtle fear deep down as all was numb inside.

“Yer joking” Applejack said.

I was the first pony in so many centuries to become a killer. I’m the most hated pony in this land. Having to hide ever since I got here. Can’t even go back to Cloudsdale. Can’t even try to be a Wonderbolt because I am that pony. I am the one that everypony should fear. Soul sat up. Listen to me.

“I was never travelling. I was never out on some self care journey or anything. I… I… ever since I was a filly, I was banished. So long ago. Banished to a winter nightmare where I almost froze to death so many times. Where I was alone… and scared.”

“You… you were really banished? Since you were a kid?” Fluttershy squeaked. Sounds like they are starting to believe me. “Since I was nine.”

“…Um, Rainbow, did you happen to know all this?” Rarity asked. Such shock in her voice. Just how they were all talking… are they scared? Angry?

“Yeah. She’s rather well known in Cloudsdale.” Rainbow confirmed. Twilight walked up to also stand at Soul’s side. Of all ponies, she was the one who spoke out among them all. “It’s true. I learned about her from the princess a long time ago.” Soul glanced over at the alicorn. She knew the whole time? So… a princess is a princess in the end. I was so stupid to think nopony would notice. She knew. She knew!

What has she been saying?!

“And you brought her here!?” Applejack yelled. True anger. That was it. There it finally was. They believe me. Twilight knew the entire time. They really are gonna be mad. That made Soul shrink back in her chair. Away from them all. With her wings up. Like they covered her from the ponies around her. Not again. I didn’t want them to be mad. I don’t want it again. Surrounded… by ponies that hate me. Not again. Not when I did nothing wrong. Not when I lost the life that I loved. “Please no…” Soul whispered.

Rainbow wrapped her foreleg around Soul’s neck. Such a soft touch. Soul looked up, finding the pony pulling her close. Standing by her side… and anger in her face. “I said she didn’t do it, Soul is not one to do anything like that!” “Well if she was banished, I reckon the princess must of had reason to. She don’t make decisions lightly” Applejack said. “Why on earth would ya think she was wrong?” “It doesn’t happen often” Rarity was the one to speak. “We all know the last time she had to do that. Princess Celestia only does it… when she has no other choice.”

“Did Soul really… kill ponies? I… I don’t want to believe it” Fluttershy said. All of them speaking outside of Soul’s wings. She could feel her tears coming.

“Celestia was wrong because I decided to give Soul a chance. I’m glad I gave her that chance. Because I learned what happened. How’s about you all listen to me before you start talking crap about my best friend!?” Dash shouted. Echoing through the room. So angry and passionate. That was what it took.

“We’re listenin’.”

7.44
Soul looked up from under her feathers to Dash. The pony who still stood next to her. Never flinching. Even if she shook, she had that strength to her. The same strength she had long ago. I still see it and she’s standing up with me again.

“We’ve all seen some pretty crazy things. Crazy magic. What if I told you I met somepony who had magic that showed me Soul’s memories?”

“Memory spells?” Twilight asked. “That’s pretty advanced magic. It was hard for me just to learn memory restoration. Are you really telling us you found a pony who can show you memories?” Show her my memories? How did Blight do that?

“I don’t know if it was that spell. I don’t know exactly what it was. But it was magic unlike anything we’ve seen. I actually saw what Soul went through. I actually could see her memories… like I was really there” Rainbow said. Soulblight… how powerful have you gotten to do all that for me? She really does so much for me. She… called herself my sister? How sweet of her. Not even my own mother… would treat me like Blight has. I’m so lucky to have ponies like her. But there’s a time when I have to protect myself. Stop being so afraid. Take action just like Blight did.

“Uh huh and who showed you these memories?” Applejack asked. I doubt Dash will be able to answer. No, this is up to me. Soul let her wings down. “My sister did.”

“You have a sister?” Fluttershy asked. As surprised as the rest of them. Hehe, if that’s what she wants Dash to know her as, I’ll call her that too. Besides, I do kind of like it. “Who is this sister of yours” Twilight asked “I don’t remember anypony ever mentioning you having a sister.” Yeah, I never had one. But she’s starting to be more to me than what I thought she could ever be. Soulblight, even if you hide all this time and have been so quiet, even if you have scared me before and made mistakes, I still see you as important. As far as I care, right now, I’ll call you my sister. Anything… to make this world that we can live in together.

“I do have a sister” Soul said proudly. “And her name is… Soulblight. And you all have met her.”

Blight can hide from them but I won’t hide her. They all can know about her. They all should know because I know that Blight really did enjoy being with them. “Huh?!” all of them said as one. Think I should explain that one. “You all did. If she can show Rainbow memories, don’t you think she can do more? You all talked to her yesterday and she really did enjoy being able to party with you all. She was really shy so I did her a favor and let her… use me.” I sound so crazy right now. Whatever. Either now or later, you all will see the truth. Blight will join us in this life eventually. Then you’ll all see she is just as fun as she was at the party. “That’s right, she possessed me.” “So… when I danced with you, that really was…” Soul stopped Dash from finishing. Such a sad nod. “I’m sorry, Dashie. I wanted to give her a day to enjoy life without being afraid. I decided to make it her party… because she deserved something for the help she gave me.” Rainbow’s gaze fell to the floor. I didn’t even know they both danced that night. Dashie… wanted to dance with me. “I’m so sorry. I’d love to dance with you whenever you’d like to” Soul whispered. “I’ll take you up on that. And I understand, you did what you felt you had to do” Rainbow smiled.

“How can you expect us to believe you were possessed?” Applejack said. “Because it’s true” Rainbow stepped up this time. “I spoke with her last night as well and that’s when she showed me Soul’s memories. When I learned the truth. It’s why we slept in so late today.”

“You sure it wasn’t a nightmare?” Pinkie asked, her eyebrow raised high. “All of this sounds really bonkers. I mean, how can some pony we’ve never heard of be able to do all that?”

“I know what I saw and it was all real. Soul here, she’s my first ever friend. I believe what I saw. You all are my friends. Don’t you believe me like I believe her?”

7.45
Everypony looked at one another. Even AJ, who lost that stern gaze she had. As if they all pleaded one another for an answer. Soul caught sight of something. So quick. Because Twilight was fast to look away as if nothing happened. But Soul saw that she had been smiling over at her and Dash. She still spoke out. “I don’t believe Soul would be a pony to kill others. She wouldn’t be that way.”

“You reckon that’s true, Twi? I just… Dash, what did those memories show you?” Applejack asked.

“That Soul never killed those ponies. They were Changelings who impersonated them. …Soul’s sister… she was the one who killed them to protect Soul… and me” Rainbow said. “Killed them? I’ve never seen anypony bring themselves to kill for any reason. Why did she resort to that?” Twilight asked. Really just as concerned as all of them were. A pony that kills. They don’t know the half of it. I don’t want them to know the things I’ve seen.

“I was the one who asked for it” Soul said. “I didn’t know what to do to protect everypony. It’s my fault too. I wanted them to die. Anything to save my best friend.” Rainbow patted her hoof on Soul’s head. “You protected us all. I can’t even imagine what would have happened if you did nothing.”

“So you’re saying Celestia got it wrong? You were banished by mistake? Your sister is the one who did it?” Twilight asked. I don’t want her blamed for something bad. Even if I was accused of it. I was banished for it. The fact is that Blight is a different pony now. “Blight had no choice. She wanted to keep me safe, don’t be mad at her. Both of us were banished to that terrible place for twelve long years! It was so horrible. I hated being gone from all of this and only wanted to come back home so I could be… be where I belong. The only reason I survived it all, was because of Blight. I just want a day to come when I can come home and my sister doesn’t have to be afraid to be around ponies. We just want friends.” I heard everything Blight said yesterday. She gave you all an idea of what we went through. She wasn’t lying and I remember it all. So much that it makes me cry right now! Making Soul need to sob into the fur of her forelegs. Now they all know. It’s all true. That happened to me and I hate it.

I just want a chance.

Rainbow gave me a chance. Soulblight gave me one. Now I need one to never have to go back to that horrible place. If Celestia sends me back... “I was punished for wanting to save my friend. I just wanted my life back, nothing more.” Rainbow hugged her from the side and hushed her. “Everything will be okay.” Will it?

The others stayed silent. Looking across their faces, they all changed. They were all sad. Sad for me? I just told you all that I know, all that I can say. So please have mercy on me. Not like what was shown to me twelve years ago. “Please forgive me.”

“Hey now, don’t worry about a thing, sugarcube. We’re yer friends and friends stick together.”

Soul held her breath. To see and hear those words coming from one of the ponies. From Applejack herself. She really said that?

Friends?

“Yeah, we believe you” Pinkie said sweetly. “We all do” Rarity said as all the ponies stood up from their seats. Soul sitting in the middle of all of them. Circling around her… with five hooves all reaching for her. Held there together in front of her face. Like they offered them to her. Am I…? Soul looked up to all of them. All the smiles on their faces. Even in the shine of her teary eyes, she could see it. She could see five ponies who… believed her. “We’ll find a way to clear your name, we promise” Twilight said.

Rainbow? The cyan pony stood beside her. The most beautiful smile on her face. A little wink that she gave to Soul as if to say that she was right all along. They would believe me. They do. Soul held her own hoof out. Set atop all five of the others before the cyan one came on top of Soul’s. All together. A web between all of them. That made it true.

Rainbow, you gave me… friends.

7.46
Soul followed Rainbow in their gentle flight through the clouds which were lit bright orange from the setting Sun in the horizon. Just the two of them. In what must have been the most relaxing flight. Like nothing wrong could happen. Nothing to fear anymore because the impossible happened. Ponies believe me.

Rainbw looked so relaxed too in her flight. Just up ahead leading Soul home. Not a care in the world with her sweet smile and her gentle wing flaps. She deserves it. After all, this was all because of her.

Why is this day so perfect? Why is nothing bad happening? It’s seems like my whole life before this was nothing but fear and pain. Until she came back into my life and now I can’t stop admiring her for it. She doesn’t even know just how much I love her for all this. My best friend and the closest thing here that makes me feel so welcomed. Funny, I’ve begun to think that I really do have a future here. A future with her and with all these ponies. Eventually, you’ll know just how much I appreciate you, Dashie. I don’t know when, but I am so happy regardless.

I still think you should tell her.

Hey, Blight. Good to hear from you. I knew you couldn’t be without my voice for long. So tell me, …did everything go well? She’s joking. I think you know the answer to that. This whole day has gone better than it could even be dreamed of. I heard it all. Haha those ponies are so nice to you. I really do think you are so close to that perfect life you want back.

A perfect life. Soul lovingly looked across the world ahead of them. Those lines of trees all glimmering with what was left of the dying sunlight that shone over the lands beyond. Where the mountains bled black in their silhouettes. To… the towers over them. A city. One that I should fear. But I don’t. Canterlot. And Ponyville behind me, flying in this sky with the one pony I wanted back. Not a worry on my mind. It’s what I wanted. Not even afraid. I can imagine the life I want… with the pony I love. All this time, my feelings just got stronger. Over these years, and now this world is mine again. …Almost.

“Just one thing left” Soul whispered. One thing. I believe it can be done.

Days ago, I didn’t think it could be possible. Convince this world that I’m innocent. That I am still that same Pegasus from long ago. Grown up and just wanting to live again. It feels like it’s possible. Even with one huge truth.

I’m not afraid.

7.47

Blight, I might be crazy, but I need to tell you something. So much has happened. So much has been given to me. This world that I longed for, it’s almost back to me. One thing left… and I think I can do it.

I want to talk to the princess.

Hmm… and you’re sure that’s a good idea? Why not? I made up my mind. Maybe things really haven’t been the way they seemed. Maybe this world is different from when I left it. All the ponies who abandoned me long ago, it’s like they don’t exist. This is like the world I once knew and I can be the filly that it once knew. I can do something to prove that I am me. I am Soul Serenity, the same Pegasus who only wanted to inspire others to be their best. I can give back. I can show them all how much I love this world. I said I wanted to try and I intend to.

I’m glad to see you are overcome your fear. What is it you plan to do? Simple, I’ll go to Canterlot myself. I’ll prove to them all that I am not the pony they were afraid of. And now I feel you are blinded by what happened earlier with the others.

What do you mean?

Soul… I killed those monsters in front of everypony. So many saw it as you doing it. Even if you are innocent, they don’t believe it. I think you alone can’t do it.

So what, should I really ask for help from the others? Blight, I don’t want to ask them. They’ve done enough. The thing is, I want to prove to the world that I can save myself. I’ve always had others stick up for me all the time. It’s time I do something for them. I love Rainbow Dash a lot, I want to show her how much I love her. You can try to stop me.

I never said anything about asking them.

7.48
Soul, I know you love Dash a lot. You’ve grown into a very strong mare and I understand you want to show that after all this time. So I say… do it. Talk to Celestia.

Really?

But you’re not going alone. You know I will never leave you to face uncertainties. I want to join you, just to help. Try to convince her and, if you need proof, I won’t do what I did back with the others. I’ll stand with you and show her everything to back you up.

I really want to show Rainbow Dash just what I’ll do to have a life with her. And you will. Just let me join you. Been a while since you and I did an adventure together. I won’t interfere.

Thank you for listening. It means a lot. You really are a great friend, and I’d love to have you along. So she will go to Canterlot with me? Amazing. I feel like we really will have the life we dream of.

Not to Canterlot.

What?! Do you think it’s a good idea to just walk right into the castle with all those guards and all those ponies? Then what do you think I should do? Easy. Have her come to you. Just you and her, what does she have to fear? I think she will be more than eager to meet you one on one. Perhaps even in those fields you and Dash did your little moment at earlier today. Nopony around. Isolated. It’s perfect!

Well I... “You know, I got some cool books back at home we can read if you’re not tired. You haven’t really been up for that long” Rainbow chimed in so suddenly from up ahead. Startling Soul. The cyan pony had not even turned back to say that to her. Just continuing on her flight. “We can do that” Soul said. Oh man, that was scary. Anyway…

One problem. How the hell would I get Celestia to come see me? Should I write her? Sounds hard to do even if Blight’s idea sounded really good. I need this to go perfect just like this whole day has been. Then… I can have my life with Dashie. I can truly have how I see her and I.

You can do the talking. Just leave getting her to come up to me. I think I know a way to grab her attention. But that’s for later, wouldn’t you say? Isn’t there another pony who needs your attention?

Read me like a book. I can’t get her out of my head. Even flying with her, I love it so much. Anything to be with her. It’s why I’m doing all this. It’s why I will do it. The fields. Blight and me. The time to finally end this and my dream can come true. Rainbow Dash, it can be our dream. Together, forever. Like I wanted since I was a kid.

You make it out like you have to do a lot to show her how you feel.

Because it is. What if I do something wrong? I want to do anything I can. I’ll move the skies for her if I have to. Even convince an entire land to accept me again. That time will be soon. Rainbow Dash’s house was just ahead. I’m confident of it. Confident even if the butterflies went rampant in her stomach. A chance to spend the rest of my life with her.

You’ll find that it’s easer than you think. Rainbow may be your best friend but she is also a mare who has cared for you for so long. Don’t be afraid of what your heart is telling you. Your heart is bound to hers.

7.49
Soul landed atop those fluffy, white clouds. Right between the small streams going through the clouds and cascading along the house. Landing just behind where Dash landed. That pony already giggling up there. She’s so happy. I am too. There’s nothing to be afraid of. Just her and I alone here. Rainbow so carefree and joyous. Practically leaping along the clouds towards the door. Such beauty in her steps. Such grace.

Easier than I think? Rainbow has been so nice to me and has cared about me for the longest time. To think this beautiful mare sees so much in me. That she had the courage to tell me that she loves me. Should I have it too? To not be afraid of what my heart is telling me? After all these years, it’s told me the same thing.

That I want Rainbow Dash.

There’s a part of me that is afraid and a part that… I want to listen to. The part that has always been telling me what I want in life. And here it is, right now. Just Dash and I. Thinking that, it made her shiver. A tingle running along her spine. Making her wings twitch. Yet she still smiled. Smiled for all the feelings inside. The truth that was in her. Is Blight correct? Should I show her how much I appreciate her? Soul felt herself begin to flush. I’m not even scared. Not scared to look like this weak, nervous mare with her legs shaking. Feeling the red along her face. And there was a time when I would be. But now, I’m fine being like this around Dashie. After all the words she said for me and all the things she did. The years we were apart, they now feel like we were always together.

“Hey, Dashie” Soul whispered. “What’s up?” Rainbow responded, stopping up ahead. “I really appreciate everything you’re doing for me.” “Hey, what are best friends for?” Rainbow said as she opened the door to her house. Best friends, but I want more. And I can hear it in your voice. Dash sounded nervous hearing all that. Even hearing this. “I could never repay you for your kindness. You’re really nice, you know?”

“Oh come on now, Soul, don’t get all sappy on me right now. You know I just want you to enjoy yourself and… it makes me happy to see you happy.” Rainbow rubbed a hoof over the back of her head. Laughing a little. So scared to say such nice things, but you still do. That’s something I love about you. You aren’t afraid to tell me what you feel. You treat me like I am important. And all you want is for me to be happy. Since we were kids. I know it now. It’s like we’re back. Back with feelings I was too stupid to realize back then.

Soul looked into the magenta eyes looking back at her. She warmed Soul’s heart. Like when she held me. When she kissed me. Things so few do for me. Soul sighed. It’s no wonder I feel this way. You’re strong and kind and sweet. Something I want to be. She’s afraid to say those nice things to me and she does it anyway. Maybe Blight really was right. Maybe I shouldn’t be afraid to show her how I really feel after all these years.

7.50
“Dashie” Soul said quietly. “Remember what you told me last night? After I woke up. We were both out here.” Those words that keep repeating in my mind. “What I told you? You mean after what Soulblight showed me? Which ones?” Dash scratched her chin with the tip of her hoof. “I think you know” Soul pressed her. Feeling her entire body begin to grow weak. Watching Dash look around, really thinking back.

“You mean… how I said I felt?”

“About me” Soul nodded. “What did you mean when you said it?” I have to know. I have to see how it is you really feel. “I uh…” Dash looked at her. She did nothing even when Soul began to walk closer to her. Closing the gap till both of them stood together on the steps. Soul just on the step below her. Looking up into her eyes. “I realized I couldn’t hide how much you mean to me anymore. Seeing everything you went through and how much me leaving you did to you, I felt so stupid to pretend you and I would not even come close to how we used to be.”

“Soul, I always dreamt of you being with me again. There wasn’t a single night where I didn’t wish you back. I told you everything that us parting did to me. Then you came back, all of a sudden. It was like a miracle and, yet, I was stupid. Because I was… well, never thought that I could have you back or… feel the way I used to feel about you.” Soul stepped closer. “How did you used to feel about me?” Soul asked.

“You know… I was… kind of always wanting to be with you” Dash was getting flustered. “It was kind of crazy. No other pony made me feel so… happy than you did. And there was a part of me that was wanting to… tell you.”

Now I see. You felt the same way I’ve been feeling. Dashie, you know that I want you in my life too. There was no other that made me as happy as you did. Soul took her next step. Putting a hoof down next to Dash’s, another hoof placed itself to Dash’s lips. Soul shushed her. It’s okay. You don’t need to say anymore. “I was also really dumb for thinking you and I would never go back to how we were. I was so afraid you didn’t like me. That you wanted me out of your life. But then today happened and I realized that we really can be that way again. I think… we actually are.” That is what made Dash stare deep into her eyes. Both ponies standing side by side. Soul joining her at the top of the steps where the wind brushed lightly over both of them. Beneath the glow of the risen Moon. In the warmth of this night. Where no fear was left. We are back and that means… it is true.

My feelings for you are real.

“Dashie” Soul whispered. “You told me that you love me. Now I can tell you… all these years, my real feelings. That I was so stupid to realize long ago. Until I saw that I want you in my life. More than you know.”

“Soul?”

Soul shook her head. Smiling so deeply in the shade of the night. Where the glow of the Moon only lit up her gleaming eyes. To be bold enough to set her hoof against Dash’s hoof. As close as we were when she held me last night. Like I always wanted from her, and I always wanted her love. A stupid filly who wanted to do everything in the world with this pony. Now I see it. I came back for you.

“Soul, what are you saying?”

“I’m saying…”

“I’m in love with you, Rainbow Dash.”

7.51
My face feels so hot. My entire body is trembling. I can barely feel my wings, and the soft brush of my tail along my legs. My heart is racing, and I’m more scared than ever before. But there is something about it. It’s not the fear I’ve come to know all these years. It’s something else. Something a little more pleasant. Like it was comforting at the same time. To finally say these words I never thought of before. To say how I feel.

“You’re the first pony I’ve ever felt this way for. No other pony has had my sights like you have. Even back when I was a kid. You were always the only pony I wanted. Now I see… what it was.”

Looking into her eyes. Her eyes as bright as apples glistening of starlight. Rainbow Dash looking deep into her. Not a word to be said. Not a single move. She kept her wings high over her, still. The most silent gaze a pony could have. To listen to these words.

“I’ve fallen in love with you.”

The words that made the first tear fall from Soul’s eyes. These words I never thought to say to anypony. No stallion or mare before. None of them could get me to feel this way. And you are the one I want. My greatest friend. The pony who stood up for me and kept me safe. Who regretted her mistakes just like I did for mine. The only pony I would fly with any time. Live with and love. I don’t care if we are both mares. For you are the true one I wanted. I’ve said all I can. Soul sniffed. Wiping her tears away over her smile.

“You’re in love with me?” Dash whispered. She didn’t blink. Not even flinch. Just stuck there in this moment with Soul. Her voice like silent echoes in the wind. “Wow. I’ve heard many stallions… say that to me. But none of them could move my heart. And I never thought I’d hear those words come from my best friend. From my wingpony. Never did. Even back when we were kids, I never saw it.”

You never saw what? “Nopony has ever been able to touch my heart. I never see myself with anypony. I never thought one would come and mean it when they say it to me. If they were just rushing or not sure how they feel. I more just want to wait for the right one.” Dash finally broke her stillness. Reaching her hoof away from Soul’s and set along the back of her own head. Her eyes… broke away.

For the right one?

“Soul. You’re in love with me? …Well I… that’s a lot to take in.”

7.52
Soul felt her own hoof slink back away from Dash. Well… it didn’t hurt to try. At least I got to tell her how I feel. But now… it really does hurt to see what I’ve done. Soul had never seen Dash so nervous before. Taking a step away from Soul. Like she was too afraid to even look her in the eyes. So… what now?

Soul took a step back. She knows. She knows and she… she’s scared. Why? Is it because I’m a mare? Or do you really not feel that way about me? “You want to find the right pony?” Soul mumbled. Slinking down behind her long mane. Whoever it is… will be so lucky. I’m an idiot! No, I… I gotta let her forget about it.

“I’m… I’m” She turned around in shame. Already feeling her wings kick up in strength. Just one flap and I’ll be out of her. Leave you to it. Because I am so stupid to have rushed this. To have thought that everything would go right for me. Soul shooked her head hard. I need to keep my friend. “I’m sorry!”

Soul let her massive wings out. Give you time alone. Please forgive me.

“Soul! Don’t leave.” Soul completely froze herself. Even so, it was as if she could collapse. Why keep me here? It’s best for me to just go and let you recover from this stupid shocker I gave you. In love with you, I’m an idiot. “You tell me that and then you dare to try and run away from me!?” Dash shouted behind her. “Don’t be stupid.”

I am stupid for telling you that. We could’ve just gone inside and leave it at that. I could’ve hid my feelings forever. As long as it kept you from being mad, which you are right now. I can get my life back here. I can get my dream. But that doesn’t mean I need to be with her.

“I’m so sorry, Dashie. I’ve been… been feeling so confused over how to take everything that has happened. All those years I’ve been gone, you were the only pony on my mind and these past few days we spent. Well they… you made me so happy just like back when we were fillies. So happy that I learned what it is that I’ve been feeling all these years.” Soul began to cry. “It’s so hard to keep my feelings hidden anymore. But you want the right pony for you… even with I thought you were the right one for me. Ever since I was a kid. I’ve only wanted you so close to me. I’m an idiot for trying this. Please don’t be mad at me.”

“You’re right. You are an idiot. But not for the reason you think.”

Dash’s hoof set against Soul’s back. In the most chilling touch just like the first cold wind that came over them. Blowing Soul’s mane along her face. Rippling her feathers in its course. “You really think you telling me that will change our friendship? I’m not gonna be mad at you” Rainbow said. “Truth be told, you are pretty brave for telling me that. Ponies I’ve barely known usually were the ones who said that type of thing to me. It’s never been one of my friends before. I think it’s scarier to admit then.” That let Soul lower her wings a little. Not fully. Her feathers still hung high to the wind. Relaxing, even as she started to. But disappointment. Rainbow Dash won’t love me. Not like that. After all these feelings I’ve had. I should count myself lucky she’s not mad. Soul let out the deepest breath.

Still, I’m so sad about it.

“When did that happen? When did you get so brave?” Dash asked behind her. “A lot must have changed. Not even I would be brave enough to say that to another pony. I should know.” Soul faked her little laugh. Hidden behind her wings. Nopony could see her tears. “So you’ve loved before?” she asked Dash. “Yeah… long time ago. But I didn’t think they were the one. So it just never happened in the end. That’s what I did think. I don’t know, maybe I was lying to myself. Maybe I was just too afraid. Cuz sometimes I look back and regret it. Like I regret a lot of things. Lately, those regrets have disappeared. I’m still so lucky you’re back. I won’t let anything ruin our friendship, so don’t worry. I’m not upset.”

Still doesn’t help… how I feel. How much it hurts.

“Soul. I think you and I will both find the right ponies for us. Maybe sooner than you think. So don’t be worried. I’m still here… and I still want you to come inside with me. …Getting a little cold, you know? We can talk about this inside.”

At least that’s something. She still wants to be my friend. Still though, there will never be another pony who will make me feel the way you do to me. That is what made Soul ashamed and so disappointed. At last, something so painful had to happen. Like always. That kept her eyes closed. Soul turned around. I’ll just go inside and… I’ll just go to bed. I’d rather not deal with this mistake I made.

7.53
That was when Soul opened her eyes for the feeling she did not know. Opening them up to see it… as Rainbow Dash… set her lips upon hers.

The jolt of lightning down through her heart. Like she could collapse from the shock of seeing it while her eyes widened. All the while Dash kept her eyes closed. Even in the dark, to see her face so close to her own. Their muzzles together, and Rainbow’s face as red as Soul’s now was. Such heat and such a feeling. Her wings could give up. Her ears felt so hot. But all along, Soul did not let go.

Is this happening?

The world fell still. The air was silent. Not even like it was chilly or warm anymore. No, nothing could exist inside this moment. Nothing but the two of them. Locked together with the soft touch upon her lips. Rainbow…

Would there ever have been a pony who would love me enough to stay with me forever? Hold me in bed and keep me safe. Touch me so gently and let me know there was nothing to fear. I never could see it. I was always just a scared pony who had no idea how to do anything right. Alone for so long. Scared for many years. Without a pony there to make me feel… the way I do now.

It took you. My greatest friend. You are that pony. The one I’m alone with. The one who holds me tight. Safe enough that Soul closed her eyes. Give in to this, this moment. One unlike any other. That makes my heart leap. You were always the one. You took me away from all the fear and pain. You gave me my dreams. You were always the one I fought for. And now, here we are. Kissing together under the Moon.

Rainbow wrapped a leg around the back of her neck. Soul stepped up. Held tight in her grip. Never letting go. Never ending this kiss. The most gentle and loving kiss she could ever receive. One I’d never want from any other. This is our moment. The moment I dreamt of, to be so close to you forever.

Soul could feel her wings shutter. Such a gentle breeze. I can’t even feel it along my fur. All I can feel is her lips against mine. This feeling I will cherish forever.

7.54
Rainbow’s lips let go of hers, but it was like they never left. That moment. Soul stared, as did Dash. Both looking to one another in the deep entrancement of their glimmering eyes, shining bright of the moonlight.

“You’re so brave for making the first move. How could I not reward you?” Dash whispered.

She really kissed me. That happened. I still feel it. It made Soul feel so weak. Her wings couldn’t stay still. Her lashes fell over her eyes. This is unlike anything I’ve ever known. Where I thought flying was the truest love and freedom… I was so foolish to not realize it. Rainbow Dash. You were always the one.

“I thought you were waiting for the right pony” Soul said.

Dash shook her head. Looking back at Soul with longing eyes. “I was. I was waiting… for you.”

One tear let go. Falling down Soul’s cheek. Me? …It’s true. “Dashie, you gave me… my first kiss.” Something I never knew could be so sweet. With the pony I’ve always loved since I was a kid. Rainbow chuckled a little under her breath. Like she was shy, the way she looked. It never went away, but her cheeks got redder. “Yeah… it was my first too.”

Rainbow never kissed any other pony? I was her first! There are no words to how happy that makes me. Just like there are none to tell how much I love this. All the tears falling from her face. Soul didn’t even flinch when Dash’s hoof touched her cheek to wipe them away. I need to know. Is this real? “Rainbow, …do you like me?”

Soul gasped when Dash’s wings came over her. Both of them holding her tight in their feathers. So tight. Soul couldn’t move in that warm hug Dash gave. The cyan Pegasus set her head down on her shoulder. Whispering into her ear. “You dummy. What makes you think I don’t? I could tell you had feelings for me. The truth is… I’ve always loved you. Ever since we were kids. You were a beautiful and kind filly who grew into a mare I could not stop myself from loving. Yet I was so dumb and scared to try and tell you. But you did. You were the one who was brave enough. I’m sorry. I always loved you.”

“Rainbow Dash, I love you” Soul squeaked out. The last words before she cried. No more tears of pain. Soul smiled so deeply. These are finally tears of joy. She heard the smallest sound in her ear. A little sniffle coming from the pony next to her. Whose grip got tighter and both her forelegs wrapped around Soul under her wings. “I love you too, Soul Serenity. I always want you to be with me.”

It’s true. No more tough mare from her. No. Dash is real. This feeling is real. She loves me. I’ve never heard her so happy before. Those were the words I’ve wanted to hear. My mother, my father. Nimbus… Starry. They never said that to me. They never stayed with me. I lost you once. It’ll never happen again. I promise. For you, I’ll do anything. Rainbow Dash.

7.55
Rainbow’s grip let go. Her wings leaving. Just one leg left to touch against Soul’s mane. Both ponies there to look into one another’s eyes. Soul could only see those magenta eyes going along her face. Like Soul did to her. To be so close to the pony you love. To look into one another and see how much we mean to one another. I never want this to end.

“When I said you look funny when you’re blushing, I was lying” Dash said. “You look so beautiful. You always do. Is it okay… if I call such a beautiful pony… my marefriend?” Her marefriend?! Soul held her breath. Oh my Celestia. This is real. “Rainbow…”

“How can I say no? I’d love to be your marefriend.” Rainbow came close. Soul already stepped forward for them to both give the most loving kiss to one another again. One. Two. Three. Soul counted it in her head. How long this moment can go. Rainbow gently ran that hoof along the back of Soul’s neck. Moving her silver mane away from her ear for Dash to let go of their kiss and softly speak in it. “I’d love to be your marefriend too.”

Locked together in this passion that no other can give us. I will always love you. You will always be the one for me. I swear it… for this, I’ll do everything for you.

7.56
Such a gentle tickle touched under Soul’s ear. Not fur or a hoof. But Soul felt it. Rainbow’s lips against the side of her neck. A soft kiss back there. Like a kiss from the wind that made her fur stand up. Oh wow… Soul shivered. Dash didn’t stop her kiss. She’s holding me, stroking my mane… kissing my neck. What is this? It feels so nice. Is this the touch I can get from the only pony I love? Like a gentle stroke of wind. A touch of electricity along her fur. It made her heart beat faster. Soul put her own hoof around Rainbow. Holding her close. Close enough to smell that lovely scent of rain in her mane. Making a smile that could not fade.

“Dash… that tickles.” “Do you like it?” Rainbow paused. Even just a pause… Soul’s heart kept pounding. Like it wanted more of it. I can still feel her gentle touch on me. Don’t stop. Soul nodded. That was what made Dash giggle. “Good. I wanted to give you a real reward for coming back to me. Only a brave pony like you can ever get it from me.”

What?

Soul gasped once something touched her ear itself. She isn’t! Soul shivered so violently when the sensation went all along the side of her ear. The feeling she could tell… was Rainbow’s… tongue. Licking over her fur. That’s my… ear! Soul gritted her teeth. Oh shit… I didn’t think she’d do that. Enough to make Soul start to kick her hind leg. Kicking with every tiny stroke that was made. Going all along her curvaveous ear. To the tip. That almost made Soul fall into her. Oh my Luna! I knew we were sensitive up there but… crap! Why is she licking my ear? “Dashie…?”

“Just enjoy it. My treat.”

Enjoy it? I… Soul whimpered. That feeling. Dash’s tongue so lovingly went along the back of her ear. Do I like this? I don’t know. Whatever it was made her chest tighten. The nonstop kick of her leg. My tail is wagging. Like it’s doing it on its own. Rainbow. Soul gripped Dash, holding her closer… with one of her mighty wings. What!? I just pulled her closer. It’s like my body is doing this without me. And… I… I like it. Nopony has ever touched my ears before. This is something lovers do. I remember catching a stallion doing this for a mare when I was a kid. He did it so briefly and she giggled. I’ve read about it. No wonder those ponies liked it. I love it too.

And Rainbow is the one doing it for me. She is in love with me.

She is my marefriend.

Soul could hear Dash laugh a little as she ran her tongue along. I think she’s enjoying this. This is Rainbow, she’s probably happy about what I’m doing. Soul’s free wing flapped. Right as her long tail flipped over and twirled. That terrifyingly lovely shiver that went along her spine and down her flanks. I feel so weak to this. Like she has me in her hooves and I can’t get away. I don’t want to get away. Keep touching my ear. It made her whimper even more. Rainbow took a deep breath next to her and then… Soul shrieked.

This is my reward? The feeling of something so soft. So lovely. To feel it there. She licked my ear. I can feel the wet fur. And now she did this. Soul almost collapsed when Dash kissed the inside of her ear. That was when she stopped and Soul fell right into Dash’s grasp. Her legs felt so weak. Held up only by Rainbow Dash now.

Soul stomped her hooves back down into the clouds. I can… can stand. Stand and she took a step back with a heavy breath. Stepping out of Dash’s grip. She could finally see that rainbow-maned pony laughing. Laughing even if her face was blistering red. As flushed as Soul’s was. She kissed my ear. I, uh…

“Wow, Soul. You look so tough… but how sensitive are you?” Dash teased her.

Oh shut up. I just… really liked it. Soul actually smiled to herself. I can still feel it. She kissed me there. Dashie. Soul touched a hoof to the top of her ear. Letting it flop against the side of her head. The feeling was still there. Such a beautiful kiss. She glanced at the mare who did it. Such a sweet and innocent looking pony. Laughing to herself. Proud to make me weak… or just happy? Maybe both. Only her touch could turn me into this. This blushing mare. A mare who has always longed for this pony. And now that she is with me…

“I gotta reward you too.”

7.57
She pushed her forehooves into Rainbow while putting all her weight forward. Pushing her down. Both of them falling together onto the fluffy clouds. Seemed to surprise Dash. Don’t worry, I won’t leave you hanging. Soul rolled off of her. Laying right at her side but she left a hoof to cling on to that pony who lovingly stared at her. First… Soul grinned.

She dug the tip of her hoof into the fur. Finding its mark. This is for everything. Soul tickled her hoof along Rainbow’s stomach. The cyan pony couldn’t even take a breath. Not before she burst out laughing. You dork. Teasing me all the time. This was supposed to be our moment and you go and kiss my ear. You always love to mess with me. And that’s something I love about you. You’re the only pony who I would ever let do that stuff to me. I’ll do the same to you. Enough to make Dash even start kicking her hind legs in the air.

“Hahahaha hey, stop that. Hahahahahaha! That’s not fair.” Laughing more and more.

Well you acted like it’s funny that I have sensitive ears. This is just for that. But I have a reward for you. Dashie is lucky. No other pony will get this from me. Soul whispered into Rainbow’s ear. “You want it fair?”

Soul lowered her hoof. Slow enough… for such a gentle caress along Dash’s belly. Rainbow stopped laughing just like that. That’s right. This is for you. Making this sweet Pegasus so relaxed. Rainbow moaned under her breath. Closing her eyes. Like she was in heaven. Laying down completely still and happy. So comfortable. So innocent. She looks so beautiful like this. Such tiny whimpers that she made. Is this how I was when she kissed my ear? I don’t know what she did to me… I don’t know. I’m usually not this touchy. But there’s something about Dash, something about being so close to her and touching her. Hearing her moan so softly. …It makes me hot.

Soul crossed her hind legs. Letting her tucked wings relax. Slowly unfolding around her. Just like what Dash’s wings did. That sweet, cyan pony kicked her leg once. Kicking when Soul ran her hoof so slowly up the entire length of her belly. Oh Dashie, you look so adorable. I just want to pull you close. I want to reward you so much. Anything to show how happy I am.

She must like it. Dash bit her lip. Trying to hold in a long sigh that Soul could hear. Hehe… I’ve never seen her like this. Soul glanced over. Seeing that rainbow tail was actually wagging along the clouds. Wasn’t my tail wagging? Yeah… she’s just like me. Talk so tough… but you’re like this now. You look so defenseless. So innocent and happy. You sound like you really are enjoying this. That’s what I want. Seeing you happy. Being able to touch you and do this to you. I feel so weird. Like my entire body is tingling. This thing I’ve never felt, I just want more. I want to do this to you more.

I want her.

There is something that I’ve thought about. Soul smiled. Smiling and she could feel her body shake. Her heart race. Like I really want more. I want to know if she’s enjoying it. Let me know and I’ll do more. Anything for you. Anything you ask for. Because right now, it’s just me and her. We can do whatever we want. And I think I know how to make her want more. I can’t even think anymore. Just… want.

Soul slithered her hoof along Dash’s side. Scooching herself a little closer. Close to where she could practically whisper into the pony’s ear. So close to it. She let out a gentle breath that fluttered the fur along Rainbow’s ear. She glanced over. Dash looked like she was struggling. Holding something in. Not even able to open her eyes. Poor thing. Let me help you. Soul buried her nose right into the fur on the side of Dash’s neck. “I love you, Dashie.” Her lips kissed against her neck.

Rainbow let out the most pleasant sigh she could make with the biggest smile she had. Blushing so much. But that didn’t hide it. Her entire body trembled. “Soul… I love you.” Dash flipped her forelegs up so quickly. Gripped against her own muzzle right as she let out a sharp breath, and her hind legs shook in the corner of Soul’s eyes. Shaking a lot. That’s what I wanted. Soul chuckled. She moved her hoof once more and then one of those cyan hooves smacked hers away. “No! Stop. I… can’t” Dash pleaded. “Oh my… such a tough mare” Soul whispered. That was what got Dash good. The pony let her legs fall and her eyes finally opened. She didn’t look ashamed at all. No.

Dash turned over, facing Soul. Both of them froze. Soul couldn’t even breathe. Not when she was staring into eyes she had not seen Dash do. Like her eyes were so deep. As vibrant as the sea. Lowering her lashes. As if her entire gaze had become a love for the pony she looked at. So much that it stopped Soul’s heart for a moment. It jumped. Her eyes make me feel so weak. Yet Rainbow leaned in to break it. Giving a quick kiss on Soul’s nose. I love it when she kisses me. It almost brings a tear to my eye. I can’t believe this has happened. We are really together. Twelve years of waiting for her and now…

She kisses me.

“Were you actually trying to get back at me… or was it something else that made you do that?” Dash whispered. Oh dear. I can’t answer her. But Soul couldn’t even keep herself from chuckling. Looking away from those magenta eyes. It might have been something else. She eyed Dash rubbing her hind legs together. Near heart-pounding to see that. “Come closer” she heard Dash speak softly. Uh, oh. Soul hesitated. Pushing herself close enough for Dash to bring a leg around Soul’s neck. She was the one who ended up pulling her closer. Close enough for their muzzles to touch. To make Soul blush, and that feeling all over her body became agonizing.

Dashie… you make me like this.

Rainbow giggled. “You jerk. I’m not gonna let you leave me hanging. How about we go to the bed?”

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