//------------------------------// // Resolving Issues // Story: Friendship's New Flight: Rough Skies // by Masterob //------------------------------// The aftermath of the fight was an awkward one, after what seemed like an eternity of sobbing, Trixie managed to get Lightning Dust to move. She took Lightning Dust to her trailer so she can be taken to the local hospital. Suri, Flim & Flam were also concerned, if she's not able to perform that will not be good for their business...oh and they somewhat care for her health. The other ponies felt awkward; Rainbow felt a little guilty for possibly crippling Lightning Dust, Thunderlane was concerned mainly for Rainbow's well being, Flitter felt sad for Lightning Dust, as did Fluttershy & Babs, Apple Bloom was totally speechless and Twilight also felt some guilt over what happened, she hated having to fight Lightning Dust, but she had no choice. Rumble however, he was steamed, while it did start out at first, Lightning eventually became his friend, he thought he finally got her to be friends with everypony, only for Rainbow Dash to screw things up. Thunderlane approached Rainbow Dash, "Are you hurt?" "Not too bad", Rainbow said. "Good", he then looked at the damage, "Well...that happened", Thunderlane said. "...'That happened'...that's all you can say right now? 'That happened'?" Rumble asked, obviously annoyed. "Well...yeah", Thunderlane said. Rumble looked like he was gonna explode, "My friend just got hurt, possibly crippled, and you act like it's nothing!" "Whoa, relax little bro, she's probably fine, just sprained her wings", Thunderlane said. "Yeah I've had my wings hurt before, the pain is hell but it'll pass, Lightning probably overreacted", Rainbow said. "The only ponies here who overreacted are you two boneheads!" Rumble shouted. "Hey easy there Rumble, remember who you're talking to", Thunderlane scolded. "A couple of stubborn idiots who can't let go of a petty grudge, you're becoming like how Applejack treated you Thunderlane. As for you Rainbow Dash you're becoming just as shallow as you think Trixie is!" Rainbow Dash looked pretty hurt at that, not the comments but the fact hat Rumble was the one saying them. "Hey! Keep in mind I'm still your big brother and Rainbow Dash is my marefriend!" Thunderlane warned. "Like I give a crap", Rumble said. "Rumble! That's enough, we're not gonna stand here and get disrespected by you! Now go inside with Apple Bloom & Babs, we need to talk, and when I come back in there your attitude had better be improved!" Thunderlane shouted. Rumble sighed angrily and walked off with his friends, but not before saying one final thing, "Just so you know, brushing off her injuries like that is no different then her brushing off any of yours". "Inside!" Thunderlane shouted. Rumble shot one more dirty look before heading in. "What has gotten into that kid? He's never usually like this", Thunderlane said. "He's just upset, give him time he'll come around, but I'd still like to know why Rainbow was fighting Lightning?" Applejack asked. "I told him that we're gonna go with Fluttershy as his partner instead", Rainbow said. "But why? I figured by now you would have trusted Lightning, she's gotten a lot better, she's been really nice to Rumble, and Fluttershy has said nice things about her, so has Twilight, even Scootaloo has said Lightning treated her really nice", Applejack explained. "Look, I've seen this before, Lightning acts all nice and can be friendly, but when it comes down to competitiveness she's a lunatic about it. When I was partnered with Lightning at The Academy she was really nice when we were just lounging around, but when it came time to do a task she was all attitude, don't just take my word for it, Thunderlane & Cloudchaser were there too". Thunderlane nodded, "Yeah, she's pretty dangerous when competitive, and after that balloon thing she showed her true colors when she just didn't care that you all almost died". "Exactly, I honestly couldn't stand being near her after awhile, she had heart but she was too reckless, no way we would trust her near Rumble", Cloudchaser said. "Besides we weren't gonna let Trixie win with that spell she cast, I don't know what she was thinking", Rainbow said. "I think she intended to keep them united until the competition, though once everypony got mad at her she probably decided to release it ASAP, she probably regrets that decision", Flitter said. "Hey if she didn't do it ASAP, I would have made her, I still haven't forgotten about the time she humiliated me...oh and you too Applejack", Rainbow said. "Rainbow, ah hate to say it but it sounds like you're holding a grudge, you're probably still mad about stuff they did and it seems that deep down you're doing this to get back at them", Applejack said. "Come on AJ, like you wouldn't do this with Flim & Flam, when they first came back you said you snooped around to see if they were up to something Shady", Rainbow pointed out. Rainbow got AJ there, she didn't know how to properly respond. "I'm sure you wouldn't trust them near Apple Bloom, so me and Thunder don't trust Lightning near Rumble, and before anypony says anything, we gave her a chance, she blew it, before the spell and after, so I better not hear Lightning or Trixie saying they don't get enough chances", Rainbow said. "Rainbow's right, Lightning hasn't really shown us she can fly safe, Rumble might be mad but like Applejack said, things will simmer down soon", Thunderlane said. Applejack sighed and turned to Twilight, "What's your say on this?" "I really don't know right now Applejack, but this does prove my point, fighting makes things worse". "Um Twilight, you were fighting too", Cloudchaser pointed out, but earned a death glare from Twilight in return. "I fought for self-defense, and I didn't fight more than I needed too! Rainbow was ready to brutalize Lighting and Trixie, and I know you and Thunder were just about ready to as well". "Yeah, I was! You know why!? Because they were a danger to my friends! I said before if you endanger Rumble, you're gonna get your ass kicked! Whether it's Babs, Sweetie Belle, Diamond Tiara, Trixie, Lightning Dust, hell if King Sombra, came back, keep in mind, King Fucking Crystal Loving Dark Magic Sombra came here and threatened Rumble, you can bet I would kick ass! Even if Princess Celestia decided to be a bitch one day and threatened to hurt Rumble, I would beat her so bad we would need a few princess to watch the lands! So yeah Twilight, I would fight and you know what-" "THAT'S ENOUGH!" Twilight shouted, using her magic to enhance her voice so it echoed across Sweet Apple Aces. Cloudchaser looked taken back and Twilight got in her face, "I'm telling you RIGHT NOW! There will be no more fighting, none at all! I looked past when you threatened to break Babs' arm but now I'm gonna lay down the law, if you get into another fight, you're gonna deal with me personally! I will not allow such things to continue! I'm trying to promote friendship across the land, the last thing we need is unnecessary fighting, you wanna fight so bad wait til we have another villain to deal with, then I'll let you, just be careful what you wish for!" Cloudchaser looked pretty mad but figured it's best not to push Twilight's buttons any further, so she simply turned and walked away. Twilight let out a large sigh and turned, only to see Flitter in front of her. "You wouldn't do anything bad to my sister, would you?" Twilight pitied Flitter a bit, "Look Flitter, I know she means well and I understand if you're concerned but I have a land to help protect, as a princess I have to make hard decisions. If your sister forces my hoof I'm not gonna have a choice, I can't play favorites...so on that note I could use your help, make sure your sister calms down and stops threatening ponies". "She's only like this usually with either me or Rumble though", Flitter said. "I'm aware of that, she's very caring, but too a fault, look at Lightning, her care for Trixie is one of the reasons we had a huge fight, you can love someone but how you handle a situation is something else". "So does that mean if those mean rich fillies bother Rumble, Cloudchaser and I can't do something?" Flitter asked. "No, you can, tell their parents or tell anypony, or encourage him to stand up for himself, but you can't threaten them with violence, they're mean but they're only foals, not that it should make a difference since I forbid fighting of all ages but that's how I want things handled". Flitter nodded, "Ok Twilight". Twilight turned to Thunderlane, "I'm sorry your brother was acting how he was, I would suggest you let him cool off for a bit. For now I'm gonna go check on Lightning to make sure it's nothing too serious, all of you handle things here". Twilight flew off toward Lightning. "Hey! Wait for me!" Spike said, chasing after her. Fluttershy approached Rainbow, "Um while I don't mind flying with Rumble, you really think it's a good idea for me to just jump in now? He's pretty mad and if I try to take Lightning's place, he might end up hating me, and I don't think I can take that". Thunderlane scoffed, "Rumble doesn't hate, it's near impossible". "I'm not sure Thunderlane, he was pretty mad, how often does he even have an attitude like this?" Rainbow asked. "Very rarely, I know he once gave Flitter & Cloudchaser an attitude about something, though they quickly shut him up". "Really? How?" "Flitter used kindness to guilt him, she made it seem like he really hurt her feelings. Cloudchaser also played along to the point where he couldn't handle it anymore and he apologized like crazy, they forgave him immediately, so now if he even thinks of mouthing off to them, all Flitter has to do is give him the sad eyes", Thunderlane said. "So that's where he gets it from, still this is a first for me, he's never been mad at me, or insulted me, should I try that same concept?" Rainbow asked. "Sorta, don't be like Flitter though, he'll see through that, do it the way it works for you", Thunderlane said. Rainbow nodded, "Ok, I'm gonna head in there in a few, make sure he's fully calm". "Yeah, we'll get this straightened out, though I'll be honest, his outburst still somewhat has me troubled, most of his outburst have been minimal, like he doesn't like something or if he can't do something he wants, he seemed really steamed this time, and I'm not always good at playing authority", Thunderlane said. Applejack approached him, "Don't worry, ah can help, I've dealt with Apple Bloom a lot, and Rarity sometimes has her hooves full with Sweetie Belle, though she doesn't handle it as well either but now you two can learn together". "I'm just surprised to hear that Rumble has acted out, he seems like such a nice boy", Fluttershy said "All foals have their moments, Rumble's sweet but has his sour moments", Flitter said. "Even you have sour moments Fluttershy, remember this...'You're going to LOVE ME'!" Rainbow shouted, mocking Fluttershy's infamous gala incident. Fluttershy glared, "I'll thank you kindly not to bring that up Miss 'I was a nervous wreck at the young flyers competiton'!" "Hey that was partially your fault for freaking me out beforehand!" Rainbow said. "Well that proves it, anypony can have sass", Thunderlane said. "Quiet Thunder!" Fluttershy said, much to Thunderlane's shock. "This actually makes her cuter", Flitter stated, much to Thunderlane's and Rainbow's confusion. Later in Apple Bloom's room, Rumble is sitting on the bed still pouting, Apple Bloom sat on his left side, Babs at his right, both were attempting to comfort Rumble. "You want us to do anything?" Apple Bloom asked. "No", Rumble stated. "Come on kid, we hate seeing you upset", Babs said. "Yeah, we love your smile", Apple Bloom said. "I don't wanna smile", Rumble said. "Would it help in ah kissed you?" Apple Bloom asked. "Hey I wanna kiss him!" Babs said. "Ah saw him first!" Apple Bloom tugged on Rumble. "Well I asked him on a date first!" Babs tugged back. "You swooped in!" "You had a chance and you'se never took it!" "Ah was waiting for him to ask first!" "This ain't the old days, you'se want something; you'se go for it!" "Still a dirty move!" "All is fair in love and war!" "Oh I'll give you war!" "Bring it on!" The was a tug of war of words between these foals, Rumble was getting really annoyed at the constant tugging. "Can you let go of me!" Rumble finally shouted, startling both girls, "For heaven's sake don't you have anything better to do than fight over me!? You're gonna rip my freaken arms off, knock it off!" The girls were shocked, he's never been that angry with them, well at least not with Apple Bloom, but this anger was a bit different for Babs, there was no fear or mild annoyance in his voice, it seemed like pure rage. "We're sorry Rumble, we didn't mean to annoy you", Apple Bloom said. "Yeah, we'll just go now", Babs said. Both fillies started making their way out the room before Rumble called them, "Wait! Don't go, I'm sorry for yelling I'm just in a bad mood, truth be told I could use your company, it helps being surrounded by pretty fillies". The girls blushed from that statement. "Ok Rumble, whatever makes yah happy", Apple Bloom said. Both girls went back to him and each gave him a hug. "I love you girls", Rumble said. Apple Bloom squealed a bit, "He said he loves me!" "Hey he loves me too!" "Still, one step closer to a personal 'I love you'". "Not if I get it first". "Girls...no fighting, you're too pretty for that", Rumble said. The girls blushed, they loved hearing his flirty lines. Rainbow entered, "Hey Rumble, mind if I speak with you...alone?" Rumble nodded, "Ok" The girls took the cue to leave, Rainbow approached Rumble, "So...I take it you're still a bit upset". Rumble huffed, "That's an understatement". "I figured as much, but Rumble you have to understand, we did what we did for your well being". "But Lightning wasn't bad, she was really nice to me lately and starting to be nice to others, why would you treat her like that, you made her feel sad then you really injured her, what if she can't fly anymore!?" "Look, like I told you before, she probably isn't that hurt, she just freaked out, I've freaked out over this stuff before, and I turned out just fine", Rainbow said. "You still hurt her, physically and emotionally, now she's never gonna trust anypony", Rumble pointed out. "Hey, to be fair I never changed my mind when I first told her I wanted Fluttershy to be your partner", Rainbow stated. "But you made it seem like she had a chance". "Maybe, I wanted to see if she'd lighten up, she didn't". "She did Rainbow, her attitude changed". "Look, just because she seemed nice at first doesn't mean she wasn't gonna be reckless, she can't resist it and until she gets past that, I can't take any chances, you're way too important to me for that", Rainbow said. Rumble sighed and looked down, Rainbow continued, "I know you're mad and you probably don't fully understand, but Lightning still has issues to deal with, maybe she can find a way to get past it, I guess me and your brother could have handled this a lot better but hopefully we can get another shot at this". "Not likely", Rumble plainly stated. Rainbow sighed, "Guess there's nothing much else I can do, looks like you've lost two friends today". Rumble looked curious, "Who's the second? Trixie?" "No...me, seems like you really don't like me anymore, guess you don't want me to be your friend. I get that though, I don't blame you, I'll miss you though". She started to leave when Rumble called out, "Wait don't go!" Rainbow smiled but didn't let Rumble see it, she had nabbed him, "Why not?" "I never said I didn't want you as my friend, please don't break away from me Rainbow", Rumble pleaded. "But kid, you said it yourself, I'm shallow and stubborn, surely you don't want to be friends with someone like that", Rainbow said. "No Rainbow, I didn't mean what I said! I was just angry, don't leave!" Rainbow almost enjoyed this, mainly cause she can get some level of payback, she loves the kid but she doesn't take insults lying down, but she did pity him, "So you didn't mean it? You still wanna be my friend?" Rumble nodded feverishly, "I don't want you to leave me" "Ok then, tell me you love me, and I won't leave". Rumble nodded, "I love you". Rainbow tapped her chin, "Yeah I'm not buying it". Rumble rushed to her and hugged her tight, "I mean it, I love you! Don't leave me! I don't ever want to lose you!" Rainbow shouldn't be doing this but it was too cute for her to resist, plus she liked messing with him "You say that but I'm not feeling it". Rumble started sobbing, "I swear I love you! Don't leave! I'm begging you not to leave! I'm sorry for saying that stuff". Rainbow grinned a little, "Are you sure? I don't want to be tricked Rumble". "I'm so sorry! Please Rainbow! Don't stop loving me! I never stopped loving you!" Rumble shouted through his sobs. After a few extra moments of sobbing, Rainbow decided he's had enough, so she hugged him, which Rumble noticed, "*sniff* You're hugging me?" "Duh, of course I am". "So...does that mean you love me again?" Rumble asked, giving her tearful yet hopeful eyes. "Again? I never stopped, I was never gonna leave you kid, I just wanted to see if you meant it when you said you loved me, and I got you right where I wanted you", Rainbow said. Rumble realized he may have been duped, "Wait, you tricked me!?" "Eh, not so much trick but just my own little revenge", she put on a smug smile. Rumble looked shocked, he now knows what Rainbow did, use the technique he learned from Flitter, she used kindness against him, well sorta, she was being a bit cruel at first but Rainbow is definitely not Fluttershy. "You big...big...lame brain!" Rumble wasn't happy at the deception. "Lame brain? That hurt my feelings Rumble, and I thought you loved me", Rainbow gave Rumble sad eyes. Rumble cringed, she definitely had him, he won't win, so he gave up, "No...I do love you, I'm sorry". "And I love you too, and I will keep loving you forever", Rainbow said, keeping the hug nice and warm, "And I won't let you escape from that, your sorry flank is my property when it comes to love", now she was definitely messing with him. Rumble sighed, "You're lucky you're really pretty, or I'd be more mad at you". Rainbow chuckled and pulled Rumble into a tighter hug, which he returned. Apple Bloom and Babs were outside watching though the creaked door. "Aw, that's so sweet, ain't it Babs?" "Eh, kinda mushy, and I swear she did that just to mess with him, that mare's just asking for an ass kicking". Apple Bloom rolled her eyes, "Then go do it, go kick her ass". Babs raised her eyebrow, "You crazy, suppose she goes all wacko on me!" "Don't talk a big game if you can't back it up", Apple Bloom stated. "Whatever, she just better not make him cry again...then again if he's sad he'll want comfort, and there's nothing wrong with a little sensitivity in a guy", Babs said. Inside the room, Rainbow broke the hug and looked into Rumble's eyes, "For the record, I'm sorry for putting you through this, I'm gonna make this up to you, but just to let you know you don't have to fly in the competition if you don't want to". Rumble nodded, "I probably won't...wait if I say no, will it upset Fluttershy? I don't want her to think I don't like her". "She won't think that, she said she'd be understanding if you don't want to, and we're not gonna put you through any more headaches". "Thanks Rainbow...I'm glad you're my brother's marefriend". Rainbow ruffled his mane, "And I'm glad that my coltfriend has a cool little brother" "So...are you ever gonna marry my brother?" Rumble asked. Rainbow blushed, "Uh kid, I've only been dating your brother for a couple of months, lets not rush this..." "Oh...ok, I hope you do though, I would love to have you officially part of my family". "Hey, I don't need some wedding bells telling me who my family is", Rainbow admitted. "Good, now I think we should let the girls back in", Rumble said. "Yeah, they're probably tired of snooping in on our talk anyway". "How'd she know!?" Apple Bloom shouted from outside. "If you're gonna peak through the creak of a door, at least make sure the door is closed enough, also I heard what Babs said a moment ago". "Aw crap!" Babs shouted. Rainbow chuckled, "Relax, I won't do anything to you, Twilight would have my head if I did". The fillies opened, "Can we see Rumble now?" Apple Bloom asked. "Sure, he's right here, I'm gonna talk with the others", Rainbow said and left the room, Rumble looked at the fillies, somewhat blushing. "I'm guessing you saw me bawl my eyes out", Rumble said. "Yeah...", Apple Bloom admitted. "So...you probably think I'm a crybaby". "What? No way, you're no crybaby, any pony would do that if they thought they would lose someone they love", Apple Bloom said. "Yeah, if I thought I would lose Fluttershy I would probably start bawling too", Babs said. "You're more in touch with your sensitivity than most colts, that's a good thing though, ah like a colt that could share his feelings, plus I know you can be tough too, you did stand up to ponies who were rude to you or those you care about, like me", Apple Bloom said. "You also got guts, I remember when me, Sweetie and Scoots had you surrounded for a beating, you actually shoved me down, most ponies would try to run, you were gonna go down fighting", Babs said. "Yer a tough boy with a gold heart, that's what ah like in a colt", Apple Bloom said. "Same here", Babs admitted. "Thanks girls, I love you both, wish I could choose between you, the other crusaders and the other filly". "Who is the other filly?" Babs asked. "He won't say, can you give us a hint?" Apple Bloom asked. "Well...you know her pretty well", Rumble said. "Maybe it's Dinky? Wait? Now yer considering Babs?" Apple Bloom asked. "I gotta be honest Apple Bloom, Babs kinda snuck in and I seriously think she has a chance with me", Rumble said. "Ha! Take that! He digs me", Babs said. "Well luckily I'm not upset, cause I know I still have a shot, and the more ah know, the better". "Can I say one thing though, whoever I choose, I don't want the filly I didn't choose to mope over it, I already agreed to date both of you, first Babs then Apple Bloom, and I'm sure soon Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle will ask me, but I want this to be nice and fair, you're each getting a chance, so don't focus on making the other one look bad, just show me why you should be my marefriend", Rumble said. "Oh ah will", Apple Bloom said. "Yeah same here", Babs said. Rumble sighed, this was not gonna be easy. Later in the day, Trixie is packing up to leave Ponyville, she had just left the hospital with Lightning Dust and was ready to move to the next town, then Twilight approached her. "So what did the doctor say about Lightning Dust?" "Well she has sprained wings, luckily no permanent damage, she should be flying again soon, til then I'm gonna keep her nice and safe and make sure she doesn't rush it, though knowing her she's gonna wanna fly as soon as possible", Trixie said. "Well she's got that competitive spirit", Twilight admitted. Trixie nodded, "Yes, she does" Twilight felt awkward, "So, where is she?" "She should be coming soon, she's not in the best mood". Twilight sighed, "Any chance I can speak to her?" Trixie raised her eyebrow, "What for?" "I want to settle things, maybe I can get through to her, if you don't mind". Trixie thought, "Normally I'd say yes, but I'm sure she'd be hesitant to talk with you, you did attack her". "I had no choice, she accused me of flirting with you and attacked me". "I'm aware of that, I don't fault you for self-defense, I myself must speak with her about that, the jealousy is flattering but it was troubling". "Still, I do wish to speak with her", Twilight said. "She should be out momentarily", Trixie stated. Soon enough, Lightning had made her way out the hospital, accompanied by Suri, Flim & Flam. "Now go rest up, the sooner you're healed, the sooner you can fly and make us some bits", Suri said. She then received an angry glare from Trixie, "Lightning will take as much time healing as she needs!" Lightning grumbled, "No, I'm definitely gonna speed this up, not for Suri but for me". "Lightning, can you just for once take things easy, I know you're competitive but I don't want you hurting yourself, do you understand me?" Trixie asked. "Ugh, this is all Rainbow Dash's fault, when I get my hooves on her I...", Lightning then noticed Twilight, "Why the hell is she here!?" Trixie looked enraged, "Lightning! Enough! Twilight is NOT our enemy! She's probably the only pony that can help us, don't make things more complicated than they need to be!" Lightning looked taken back, not many ponies addressed her like this, and while normally she'd be angrier, she respected Trixie, who at this point was the only mare who cared about her, and at this point was the only mare she cared about. Trixie sighed, "Sorry for the outburst, but I want this resolved, Twilight needs to speak to you". Lightning nodded, "Ok then". Trixie opened the trailer, "For you two to have a bit of privacy, take all the time you need". Lightning nodded and went in with Twilight, but not before engaging a kiss with Trixie, which she eagerly returned. "Don't worry, you're still my mare", Trixie said. "And you're mine", Lightning said and went in, Twilight noticing this, unsure what to think about that exchange. When they went inside Twilight sat down across Lightning, "So Lightning, tell me everything". Lightning cocked her eyebrow, "Everything? Like what?" "Trixie mentions you not just have a beef with Rainbow, but slightly hate all of us, now I want you to tell me everything, from your perception", Twilight said. Lightning sighed, "Ok, it started with The Wonderbolts Academy. I was their best flyer, Spitfire herself said so, and while Rainbow seemed to be ok at first, eventually she started showing signs of jealousy. Now at first I didn't take too much to it, she's a proud mare so I know it was probably a hard pill to swallow to have to be wing pony, but we made such a great team I don't really know why she was upset, because she wasn't lead? That sounds selfish, but I can forgive that. My main issue stems from the fact that all of you appeared on a hot-air balloon in a restricted area and you happened to be in the path of a tornado I was making". "Why did you make a tornado?" Twilight asked. "We were in a contest and Spitfire said take out as many clouds as possible, so I figured make a tornado and cut the work in half, seemed smart and innovative, but then you showed up in that balloon and got caught in the tornado, and because you showed up, I took the heat from it once Rainbow ran crying and complaining to Spitfire, and apparently it's because your hyper pink friend just HAD to get a damn package to Rainbow as opposed to using the mail like a normal pony! And since then my dreams of appearing in The Wonderbolts have constantly gone downhill". "So that's your main issue, you blame us for your dreams not coming true", Twilight summarized. "Exactly! You and your friends have ruined everything for me!" Twilight sighed, "Ok lets straigten out a few things. Number one, the whole restricted area thing, while that applies to most ponies, being the apprentice of Princess Celestia, I am immune to such rules, I am allowed to go to places like these at a moment's notice, and don't get me wrong, I wasn't eager on just going there but Pinkie insisted so I figured it wouldn't hurt and I'm sure The Wonderbolts would not have minded. To be honest the last thing we expected was to be hit by a tornado, and we didn't take too kindly you brushing it off as some random accident". "But it was, you're fine aren't you? I don't know why Rainbow complained so much", Lightning said. "Yes, we're fine but you're missing the point, suppose we did get killed, then what? Suppose ponies found out you killed The Elements of Harmony? How do you think Celestia would react if you killed her apprentice? What my brother would have done to you?" Lightning raised her eyebrow, "Brother? You have a brother?" "I'm sure you've heard of Prince Shining Armor, Princess Cadance's husband". Lightning looked a bit nervous, "You have some powerful family". "Yes, so imagine what would have happened to you, or The Wonderbolts in general, you could have gotten them shut down, then there would be no dream regardless. But beyond that, you honestly didn't seem to care that you could have killed us, how do you think that would make us feel? How that makes Rainbow Dash feel? Tell me, if we did die how would you have felt?" "...I really don't see the point of answering now, I mean what's done is-" "Lightning, answer", Twilight gave Lightning a pretty fierce glare. Lightning attempted to return the glare, try to intimidate Twilight but she didn't budge, Twilight continued to staredown Lightning Dust until she gave up. "Fine...if you died I would have felt bad!" Lightning confessed, "There you happy?" Twilight simply continued the glare, "Do you really mean that?" "Yes, ok I mean that, obviously I wasn't trying to kill you and while I got nervous when the tornado hit your balloon, once I saw you were ok I figured to just play it cool and maybe everypony will forget about it", Lightning said. Twilight groaned, "You're really something Lightning Dust". "Hey I told you my story, you still ruined my dreams, then you and Rainbow attack me, once in Manehatten and once at The Farm, so-" "Lets get something straight missy! Regardless of whether you think we should be there or not, that tornado thing was stupid, you could have hurt yourself, Rainbow or one of the other cadets! And by not caring about the others you fail one important aspect from The Wonderbolts, the safety of those around you, suppose you're performing and you injure ponies watching, then what!? And those fights were your doing! You threw the first punch in Manehatten and you started attacking me just because you thought I was trying to steal Trixie from you, and do not fault Rainbow for attacking you because she was simply protecting me from your harm!" "She threatened Trixie though! Who also had to deal with your crap in the past!" Lightning shouted. "Do you even know what Trixie did? She comes into town, acting like a big shot, all Rainbow, AJ and Rarity did was call her out on her claim that she can out do any pony in their talent! Being proud ponies they just want to see for themselves, and get this, instead of actually outdoing them she took cheap shots by messing up their tricks and humiliating them in front of the town, Trixie had no one to fault or blame but herself, just like you have no one to fault or blame but yourself!" "She still threatened my Marefriend!" Twilight slammed her hoof on the floor, "If you didn't act how you did then this wouldn't happen! You constantly pushed Rainbow's buttons and it got you injured! I don't condone that but when you act like this these things happen!" Twilight calmed herself down by taking a breath, "Lightning, you seem like a nice mare, Rumble really cares about you and he was very steamed at his brother and Rainbow when they did what they did to you, but you need to prove that a little more, when you do your stunts just remember, it's not worth hurting yourself or others for, just think, suppose Rainbow did something reckless and Trixie got hurt, and Rainbow didn't care, I know you also have a soft spot for Scotaloo, suppose she almost got hurt, just please think of those you care about, Trixie wants to make a better life, the only thing fully holding her back is you, if you won't fo it for yourself, do it for Trixie". Lightning let what Twilight said sink in and sighed in defeat, "Even if I wanted to though, how can I? This is who I am, I'm just a wild racer". "You can change, you can still enjoy flying but just don't get carried away, and if you'd like I can help you, once you're all healed feel free to come back to Ponyville and maybe we can tame your need for speed, and also show you the magic of friendship in the process, but only if you really want to", Twilight offered. Lightning nodded, "Ok Princess, I'll do my best" "Call me Twilight". "Ok...Twilight". "And please don't get jealous of me and Trixie, I would never steal her from you", Twilight admitted. Lightning nodded, "I'm sure of that, it's just that she admitted she wondered what it would be like to be your marefriend, she really admires you and she says you're very attractive, I guess one good thing from that is that it showed she's willing to experiment, and I took a huge chance", Lightning said. "So that's how, I honestly wondered how you did become together", Twilight stated. "Yeah that's how, I mean I never thought much at first but over time I started feeling more attached to her, so once I saw an opportunity, I went for it. I asked her on a date, we hit it off, since then she's been my one and only", Lightning said. Twilight smiled, "That's so romantic, it's nice to see that love can bloom from any place, even same sex couples, I would love to learn more about your relationship and what it's like to be involved with someone of your gender, would you be willing to share more?" "Well we could just show you up close, yo Trixie!" Lightning said. Twilight was confused, "What do you mean up close?" Trixie entered, "You called?" "Twilight wants to learn more about us, as a couple, more the idea behind feeling attracted to another mare" Trixie grinned, "Would you like to experiment with us Twilight?" Twilight blushed, "Experiment how?" Trixie approached her, "You know, join me and Lightning in a private room, we can show you a great time worthy of a princess". Twilight blushed, "Um, while you're both very pretty mares, that doesn't seem...natural to do so". "It's called a 3 way Twilight, not uncommon", Lightning said. "Um...I'm not so sure", Twilight said, feeling more awkward. "Well when you are sure, just let us know, I would love to get closer to you Twilight, a lot closer", Trixie said, giving her affectionate eyes. "Right...of course, now if you don't mind, I should be going now", Twilight said and left in a hurry, causing Lightning and Trixie to chuckle. "I can't believe we actually did that, did you see her face?" Lightning asked. "It was cute, she's cute", Trixie said. "Yeah she is", Lightning admitted. "Well, time for you too rest". "Aw damn". Trixie nuzzled against her, "If you rest enough right now, we can do something a little more rigorous later". Lightning blushed, "Wait, later? I'm kinda in the mood now, especially after flirting with Twilight". Trixie giggled, "Well a little right now couldn't hurt, get it out of your system, just hold up", Trixie said and opened the door to Suri, Flim & Flam, "Why don't you 3 go somewhere for about...half hour? Maybe more?" "Sure, no problem, just make sure you use some air freshener when you're done with her in there", Suri said, causing Trixie to blush. "Trixie has no idea what you mean, well bye now", Trixie shut the door, then opened it a moment later to put up a 'Do Not Disturb' sign. "Come on boys, lets see if there's a place worth eating in this shallow town", Suri said. "I hear that pink pony makes great treats", Flim said. They walked off to find a place, leaving Trixie and Lightning to their business. The next day Trixie and Lightning were making their way out of Ponyville along with their associates, along the way they noticed the Crusaders playing tag with Rainbow and Thunderlane watching,.Lightning had the trailer stopped, she wanted to speak with Rumble. "Yo Rumble!" Lightning said, stepping out the trailer, Rumble noticed her and flew in to hug her. "Lightning! I'm so happy to see you, how are your wings?" Rumble asked. "They're fine, sprained but I should be flying in a few days", She then heard Trixie clear her throat, "Fine, maybe a week or two". "That's good, glad it's not permenant, sorry for how mean Rainbow and my brother were to you, and Cloudchaser to some extent". "Don't worry about it, I sorta get them now after a long talk with Twilight, but I'm leaving town, it's probably gonna be a while before you see me again, but until then just remember to keep training, I see awesome potential in you, and I'm sure you'll do well in that competition tomorrow", Lightning said. Rumble rubbed his head a bit, "I'm actually not gonna enter" Lightning frowned at that, "Why not? Did the others forbid you?" "No, I just don't feel right doing this knowing that you're hurt so-" "No way!" "Huh?" "No way am I gonna listen to you say you're backing out, you worked hard for this, it's bad enough I can't enter, don't throw it away just because I'm hurt", Lightning said. "But Lightning, we were supposed to-" Lightning grabbed his shoulders and stared into his eyes, "Kid, do NOT back out for my sake, I want you to enter and kick ass, how do you think I'll feel if I'm the reason you backed out, you can back out for any other reason but not for me, I ain't gonna take that shit, you get your little flank over to the competition and you kick ass, do it for me. Because the next time I see you I want to know you did well in that thing, you don't even have to win, I just want you to compete, I'm flattered you would think of me and my feelings, you are one of my favorite ponies for that, but go with my blessing, that would make me very happy". Rumble nodded, "If you're ok with it, then I'll do it" "Good, glad to hear", Lightning saw Rainbow and Thunderlane watching her, looking a bit suspicious. "I should go now, tell Fluttershy I said hi and good luck, tell Twilight I said thanks for her talk, and sorry for some other stuff". "What other stuff?" Lightning blushed, "I'll tell you another time". "Ok, see you around" Lightning kissed his head, causing a small blush, "By the way, that's for standing up for me against the others, you're a great kid, bye Rumble", Lightning looked to the other crusaders, "Bye girls, and Scootaloo, if you ever feel down about your flying issues, feel free to send me a letter or something, I hope to one day hear that you're able to fly, I'll give you a few lessons!" Scootaloo nodded, "Sure thing, bye Lightning!" As she left Rumble approached her, "Wait, one more thing" "Sure, what?" "You called Trixie your marefriend, I thought you can only have a marefriend if you're a colt, and you're a mare too, how does that work?" Lightning blushed, "Uh...you should ask your brother about that, or Rainbow, or Twilight...or even that glamor pony, I've seen how she looks at Applejack. But just know this, me and Trixie being mares doesn't make our relationship mean less, I care about her the same way your brother cares about Rainbow". "Well, that's sweet, still curious how that works, and to be honest is sounds kinda...well, what's the word...oh it sounds really kinky" Lightning blushed harder, "Wow kid, you really are a colt, I like that, one day I'll show you how it works, but I'll see you later", Lightning said and left in the trailer with Trixie. Trixie popped out to say something, "By the way, Trixie apologizes for the grief she may have caused you and your friends, and Trixie requests that you tell Rainbow Dash to lighten up, also if you don't mind, tell Twlight my regards as well and tell Applejack I truly thank her for letting us stay at her home, I've scrounged up a little something for her", Trixie then tossed Rumble a small bag of bits, "Trixie hopes to see you again". Rumble took the bits, "Ok, I'll get these to Applejack, bye Trixie!" As they left, the other crusaders as well as Rainbow & Thunder arrived to him. "Apple Bloom, get these bits to your sister", Rumble said, giving her the bag. "Sure thing". Rumble turned to Thunder and Rainbow, "Is it too late for me to take Fluttershy as my partner?" Thunderlane shook his head, "No, not at all, good to have you back little bro" "I gotta admit, that was really nice of Lightning and Trixie...wow never thought I'd say that", Rainbow said. "Well, I better tell Fluttershy, hope she says yes, I wanna train with her a bit", Rumble said. "Can we come watch?" Scootaloo asked. "Sure, I could use some cute cheerleaders", Rumble said, causing the 4 fillies to blush. "Ah my brother, just like me, I make the mares blush too", Thunderlane said. Rainbow glared, "Just remember, I see you gawking at any mare cheering you on, I'm gonna kick your ass!" Thunderlane nervously chuckled as Rainbow continued to glare. The competition finally came, Rainbow had explained the situation to Spitfire as to why Fluttershy was replacing Lightning, though didn't go into too much detail, just that Lightning had gotten hurt and backed out. Spitfire was fine with Fluttershy taking over. Despite being older, Fluttershy volunteered to be Rumble's wing pony, she couldn't handle the leadership and doesn't care about being led by a foal, though Rumble was a bit nervous about being a lead pony, he decided to give it his best shot. The competition went under way, Rainbow and Thunderlane did their thing, pulling off flawless tricks, showing great chemistry in their movements, having good rhythm, Spike joking that they had a lot of practice with the 'rhythm' part, earning a groan from his friends, but the judges gave them a near perfect score, with Rainbow wanting to beat down the one pony who didn't give them a full 10. Soarin attempted to congratulate Rainbow afterwards, telling her how good she looked in the sky, Thunderlane didn't take to kindly and chased away Soarin. "Stay away from my marefriend!" "Dude all I said was she looks good! I didnt' bring up that I find her attractive...oh shit!' "I'll kill you!" Soarin flew away in fear as Thunderlane chased him. Rainbow chased after them, "Dammit Thunderlane! Didn't you learn from Lightning Dust and Trixie!?" Cloudchaser and Flitter also did well with their tricks, their chemistry was obvious, being twin sisters they complimented well in the sky, judges gave them a high score. "Wow, we pulled it off", Cloudchaser said. "You're a great leader sis", Flitter said. "Thanks". When it was time for Rumble and Fluttershy, they did pretty well considering one was a foal and the other barely flew, well at least in a competitive state, though their performance was still a little underwhelming, the judges however didn't give them a totally bad score. They rated them for doing well given the situation. After their part both ponies landed, Fluttershy feeling guilty. "I don't think I did to well out there, sorry for bringing you down Rumble". Rumble hugged her, "It's ok Fluttershy, you did your best, that's all I care about". "Rumble you're so sweet I'm gonna get a sugar rush", Fluttershy said. Rumble chuckled a bit, then felt a pair of hooves over his eyes, "Guess who" Rumble smiled, "Lightning Dust!?" He turned around and was half right, Lightning was there bit it was Trixie's hooves covering his eyes, "Gotcha". Rumble chuckled and then hugged Lightning, "You came!" "I wanted to see you fly", Lightning admitted. "That's so nice, so how did we do?" Rumble asked. Lightning hesitated on her answer, "What's important is that you tried so..." "We bombed?" "Yeah..." "Figures". Lightning patted him, "Don't let it get you down, you still did well enough, you too Flutters". "Thanks Lightning". Rainbow had approached the area with the other Pegusai, causing Trixie to hide behind Lightning. "Relax, I'm not gonna hurt you Trixie", Rainbow reassured. "Trixie knows that...she just likes disappearing behind ponies, it's part of my magic show", Trixie said, obviously making that up. Rainbow looked at her like she's stupid, causing Trixie to nervously chuckle. Rainbow brushed it off and turned to Lightning, "I'm sorry I hurt your wings, and I'm sorry about the switch, I know you like being a daredevil in the skies and I didn't want Rumble to get hurt". Lightning nodded, "It's fine, truth be told I probably would have done something stupid, not just hurt Rumble but any other pony, I think I know why you were so steamed at The Academy with your friends, I would feel the same way with Trixie". "Yeah, and Trixie, sorry for being unfriendly to you as well", Rainbow said. Trixie nodded, "Trixie also apologizes for how she has treated you, Trixie...I know I didn't make things any better, I only focused on being friends with Twilight, and maybe by making my personal grudge towards you more apparent it only encouraged Lightning Dust's grudge as well, perhaps we can wipe the slate clean?" "Sure, no problem", Rainbow said. Lightning approached Rainbow, "And try being friends like we were at The Academy? I do miss that". "Sure thing". Lightning held out her hoof, "So...hoof bump? For old time's sake?" Rainbow oblidged with a hoof-bump. Lightning turned to Thunderlane & Cloudchaser, "So...no bad blood between us either?" They shook their heads. "You're cool with us", Thunderlane said. "Yeah, you too Trixie", Cloudchaser said. "Great, now we can work on Flim & Flam's issues with Applejack & Suri's issues with Rarity", Trixie said. "Yeah speaking Rarity and Applejack...you two are marefriends?" Thunderlane asked. Lightning nodded, "Yeah, started shortly after the Manehatten stuff". "Wait, Rarity and Applejack? You think they're an item?" Flitter asked. "Yeah...have you seen how Rarity looks at Applejack, I think she's attracted to her", Thunderlane said. Rumble looked a bit jealous, though didn't show. He had a crush on Applejack, though he also had one on Apple Bloom & Babs but a selfish part of him didn't want Rarity potentially taking away Applejack before he knew who he wanted. "He has a point, Rarity did get jealous when I hugged Applejack once", Cloudchaser said. "Maybe we can get them to confess, they'd make a cute couple", Flitter said. "Any advice you two?" Rainbow asked Trixie & Lightning. "Well I think you have evidence for Rarity, but make sure Applejack is into mares before you really try anything", Lightning said. "Yeah, Lightning knew when I stated I was attracted to Twilight Sparkle, so if Applejack shows interest then you should plant some seeds", Trixie said. "Right, thanks", Rainbow said. "Well we'll be off, bye everypony", Trixie said, Lightning giving Rumble one final hug before waving good-bye. Later on, Spitfire arrived with her team, as well as Twilight arriving with the others, Soarin made sure to keep a distance from Thunderlane, who glared at him. "You all did well, even you Rumble, you made the best of a bad situation, keep an eye out, you may get something in the mail about a potential spot in The Wonderbolts", Spitfire said. "Thanks Captain Spitfire", Rainbow said with a salute. Rumble approached her, "Does that include me too?" Spitfire removed her sunglasses and smiled at Rumble, "Kid, if you get in I would personally take you under my wing, I'll mold you into a proper stallion, a very handsome stallion", Spitfire gave him a sly smile, much to the discomfort of Thunderlane, Flitter & Cloudchaser. "What the hell is she doing?" Cloudchaser asked in a hushed tone. "She's not hitting on him right? That's...unusual", Thunderlane said. "I'm guessing once he hits legal age, she's gonna be all over him", Flitter said. "See you all around, and Thunderlane, ease up will ya?" Spitfire said. "So long as nopony tries to take my marefriend", Thunderlane said, holding Rainbow Dash close. "You need to lighten up", Rainbow said. "Hey I'm tired of ponies trying to hit on you, I've seen how some look at you, I swear that week staying at AJ's, Big Macintosh kept eyeing you, I know he wanted you, I can sense it", Thunderlane said. "You're being paranoid", Rainbow stated. Fluttershy & Flitter approached Soarin. "We're single though", Flitter said. "If you'd like a date, I would love to be your date...if you don't mind that is", Fluttershy said. Soarin chuckled a bit as Spitfire stepped forward, "All right, that's enough you two, Soarin lets go". The Wonderbolts then left the room, Twilight stepped forward, "You all did well". "Thanks, glad this is behind us", Rainbow said. "Hey Twilight guess what?" Rumble said. "What is it Rumble?" "Trixie and Lightning Dust were just here, they came to see me, and they made friends with Rainbow, Thunderlane, Flitter & Cloudchaser". "Really!? That's great! I'm so proud of you all for putting this behind us", Twilight said. "Well we can talk later, lets go grab a bite to eat or something", Rainbow said. "Sounds fun, lets go for it", Twilight said, as they all left, Rainbow approached Applejack. "So your thoughts on a gay couple actually staying in your house this whole week?" Rainbow asked. "Ah had a feeling on some points, wasn't too sure, but I guess it's fine", Applejack said. "So you're ok with it, you won't judge them?" Applejack shook her head, "No, everypony has the right to be what they wanna be" "Would you ever do something like that?" Applejack looked suspicious at Rainbow, "Are you trying to come on to me?" Rainbow looked annoyed, "No you dope, I'm perfectly happy with Thunderlane, besides it wouldn't work between us, we'd both be fighting over who the dominant one is, and I'm enjoying my status over Thunderlane". Applejack raised her eyebrow, "So you're the dominant pony?" "Yes, except some nights where I let him be the dominant pony", Rainbow said. Applejack shook her head, "Dammit ah don't need to hear that!" Rainbow chuckled, "Hey your fault for making that assumption, but seriously would you? If I were gay I'd probably go for Fluttershy, would you consider a pony?" "Hm...well I don't think too much about this stuff, but if I had to choose a mare to be with, I'd say maybe Twilight, or even Cloudchaser, both seem like great partners in a relationship", Applejack admitted. "How about Rarity? You're both such good friends already", Rainbow said. Applejack chuckled a bit, "Please, Rarity? If there were any pony that I'm sure would never be gay it's Rarity, to consider it would be a waste of time". "You really think that?" Rainbow asked. "Believe me Rainbow, Rarity is the definition of a straight mare, even if she were gay I'd doubt she'd go for me, we're two different classes, it'd never work out", Applejack admitted. "Hey, you'd be surprised on how things turn out". Applejack looked confused, "Well we'll talk later, lets eat, I'm hungry". The ponies made their way to a nice restaurant to eat, each happy on how the events turned out, Rumble made a new friend, some grudges were put aside, and Rainbow's Wonderbolts ambitions got closer and closer. Meanwhile Rarity, who herself was surprised about Trixie and Lightning's coming out, felt some relief, seeing first hand on how a same-sex relationship could work, started thinking of Applejack again, she doesn't know why but there's something about Applejack she really likes. Rumble himself had some love issues to work out, he found himself really liking Apples, but which Apple to go for? He better hurry, one was up for sale and he had to decide if he really wanted it, or was willing to let it go free. And Twilight...lets just say she herself was a bit interested in the whole same sex stuff, it's something she really wants to address for a future friendship lesson, and possibly take up Lightning and Trixie's idea for an experiment. Rainbow was happy to have Thunderlane as a coltfriend, as annoying as he has a tendency to be, and happy to have Rumble as well, perhaps he could be her future brother-in-law, but marriage was not something she as ready for, right now. Though she did still like the idea of Soarin being flirty with her, makes her wonder what if? But the friends were just gonna enjoy the moment, for who knows how long they have before more issues arise, though nothing they can't power through.