"Two worlds just aren't compatible, Rainbow Dash, it's like a lion and a lamb."
When Princess Twilight Sparkle finally completes a spell she's been working on, nopony can be certain of the changes it may bring; there's no way she can ignore it. However, the consequences are stronger than she anticipated, and despite thinking Rainbow Dash was the only pony brave enough to witness the results, the turmoil has turned not only Dash's, but another girl's world, upside down.
''Where is it, where is it!?'' Squawked Twilight as she scampered around the library and rumaged in the sea of books.
"Where's what?" Groaned Rainbow Dash, who had lurked in Twilight's library for the last twenty minutes just to pick her copy of the new Daring Do book.
"My spell book!" Twilight replied instantly.
''Err, I thought you were finding my Daring Do and the Lurid Lair?'' Rainbow Dash frowned.
''I was! To tell you the truth, Rainbow, I can't find your book anywhere. So I'm looking for my defined search spell so I can just tweak it up to perfection and find your book!'' Twilight said, a little worked up.
''Uh, really?'' Whined Rainbow. ''Well, don't beat yourself up, you look a little flustered, so maybe we should just call it a day and I'll help you look tomorrow.'' She offered. She gave Twilight a lanquid smile and turned to leave.
''I found it!'' Twilight said suddenly. She grinned conceitedly and held up the book. Rainbow scurried back to Twilight's side and snatched the book eagerly.
''Thanks, Twilight!'' She tucked her book under her wing with satisfaction. ''Have a good night,'' She waved to Twilight, who sat exhaustedly, mane tangled and eyes drooping in the cluttered room, and made for the door. ''You sure could use one...'' She muttered and tittered to herself. Just as she clutched the book in her mouth and began to spread her wings, she saw a neat journal labelled Twilight's spell book that looked like it had been tossed into the plant pot. She dropped her book to say, ''Hey, I found your—" She glanced around to see Twilight leaning slightly forward, snoring. ''... book.'' She finished with a whisper. Gently, she picked it up and placed it inaudibly onto the table, before finally extending her wings and hastening into the starless ebony of the night sky.
Bright and early does it for Rainbow Dash every morning. Bright, early, refreshed and ready for whatever life throws at you: in today's case, being the victim of Rarity's new Sweet and Elite clothing range. Why is it always me? Rainbow groused while she stood like a statue on Rarity's dressing stand, the loose fabrics constantly tightening, loosening, then nearly knocking the breath out of her.
''Dear me, Rainbow Dash, you're quite the grumbler this morning, aren't you?'' Appointed Rarity, peering over her spectacles and adjusting the dress, despite Rainbow's detest at being there.
''Rarity, you know I hate being your model. Why do you always pick me?'' She scowled. Rarity examined Rainbow before fervently describing her answer.
''But, Rainbow, darling, you have the most luscious hair and sleek body out of a many I've worked with - Celestia knows why you refuse to let me put that beauty to use!'' She exclaimed. Rainbow Dash gave her a skeptical look.
''Yeah, yeah, don't give me that.'' She retorted. ''I don't care, I'd rather poke my own eyeballs out than stand here all day.'' She stomped her hoof on the ground to punctuate her statement.
''Oh, I know,'' Rarity whimpered sarcastically with wide eyes. ''It's the least you could do for your best friend, don't you think Dashie?'' She battered her eyelashes. Rainbow just rolled her eyes and ruffled her forelock with her hoof. ''Gah! Do be careful, you don't want to rip the dress!'' Rarity pushed her leg back to the floor in a shot.
''Oh, I do...'' Rainbow muttered.
''What was that?'' Rarity questioned in a polite manner.
''Nothing.''
''Listen, I know that you're fed up with all this fuss, but I've nearly finished... just a little there... oh, that's not supposed to be...'' Rarity trailed off, fiddling and fitting the final touches of the dress as she murmered to herself. Does she always talk to herself? Rainbow wondered as she gazed longingly out the window at the pleasant azure sky and puffed. ''... done!'' Rarity exclaimed with delight, taking a step back to admire her work.
''So... I can go now?'' Rainbow asked.
''Well, yes, I suppose. You've been of great help to me this morning, even if you were a little stubborn. I trust that you—" The window latch clunked slightly as it swayed from the force of which Rainbow Dash had exited. Rarity sighed and turned to continue to work with in her designs.
Finally! The breeze felt good as it rightfully whisped through Rainbow's mane and the cool air recuscitated her face. She closed her eyes and exhaled, looping freely. Her reverie was suddenly broken as a piercing shout punctured the air in front of her.
''Rainbow Dash!'' She stopped in mid-air and looked down to the ground at the source of the shout. Twilight Sparkle. ''Hey, Rainbow, I've got a job for you!'' She jumped up excitedly, flailing her wings. Rainbow Dash glared at her dubiously, then Twilight gave a sheepish grin. ''Oh yeah, wings.'' She blushed. Rainbow laughed and descended to the path where Twilight stood.
''Hehe, no biggie. It's a josh, really.'' She sniggered and offered Twilight a hoof-bump.
''Sorry... I'm just really not used to my wings yet.'' She returned the hoof-bump and guffawed.
''Don't worry,'' Rainbow replied. She flexed her wings and stretched majestically. ''I mean, it takes a lot of guts to fly like me.'' She beamed.
''Very funny, Dash,'' Twilight said. ''Anyway, are you up for it?''
''Up for what?'' Rainbow stopped and looked at Twilight with a keen eye.
''Oh, sorry! For the job I've got for you, I mean! Well, it's more of a favour, actually, but it's rather nutty, and I need some assistance, so I just knew that you'd be the pony for the job and—'' Twilight stopped rambling as Rainbow shoved a hoof to her mouth.
''Whoa, just tell me what it is will ya?'' She inquired, impatient. Twilight squinted at Rainbow in thought for a second, before pushing Rainbow's invading hoof aside.
''Follow me. It needs a long explanation, if you please,'' She spat. ''So follow me and you'll find out.'' Rainbow Dash blinked, thrown off guard. Nevertheless, she darted to catch up with Twilight who had hurried away towards the library.
The library door swung as Rainbow fleeted through it, her vivid spectrum of a tail whispering against the grainy wood. Twilight had already begun to fumble through her cupboards; she had found and sported the same journal she had lost last night - only it was looking much more used and worn. "This." Twilight stated, as she proudly held up her spell book to Rainbow's face, tufts of the leather ripped out of place. Rainbow Dash couldn't see anything interesting between the creased pages. "This," She repeated, taking a deep breath. Rainbow saw the twinkle in her eye as she tried to contain her excitement. Spit it out. "Is the spell I've been working on for the last month or so. It's finally finished, but I'm not entirely sure what it does."
"Soo... Why are you showing me?" Rainbow questioned. She tilted her head to peer beneath the books hardback cover, but the shadows concealed the curious scribbles.
"Because," Twilight paused again for emphasis. "You're going to help test it!" She squealed, and gave a small inflamed hop. She cast the journal upon the table, flicking through the stained pages till she admired a page with auspiciousness. She raised a hoof and beckoned to Rainbow: she tapped over to her with ease and glared at the book. "The only way I can find out what it does is to just go ahead and try it," Twilight began.
"No, really?" Rainbow interrupted with sarcastic curt, but Twilight hushed her, not noticing the incredulous expression on Rainbow's face.
"I figured that you might be the only pony who's willing to give it a go?" She looked at Rainbow expectantly, with a lightly fervent smile.
"Me? What could I do?" Rainbow said with secretive stubbornness. Twilight's words echoed in Rainbow's head, a faint sense of adventure lingering on them. She couldn't stifle a devious grin forming across her lips.
"You're going to be my model, Rainbow Dash." Twilight dictated. Rainbow's heart sunk, and she sighed,
"Not like a, modelling model? I've just about had enough of that..." She groaned.
"Oh, no! Don't worry! I know how much you'd despise that," Twilight giggled. "This is going to be waaaay more fun." She told Rainbow with a ratifying grin. Rainbow still wasn't psyched, albeit Twilight's gaiety. Twilight saw her leery look and stopped bouncing. "C'mon, Dashie," She was only called that when ponies were being sympathetic or friendly. Twilight's eyes widened with plead, and Rainbow gave in.
"Fine. I'll do it. What's your order?" Rainbow grunted, leaning on the table with her front legs crossed. Twilight's eyes sparkled acquisitively.
"Great!" She squeaked and levitated her spell book in front of her. "Ok... If you could just go and stand in the middle of the room, away from any other objects..." She concentrated. Rainbow did as she said. She trotted to the centre of the wooden floor and kicked a rogue book to the side. There she stood patiently while Twilight was wrapped up in the spell book. "... Ok, here goes," She said finally looking up from her book, her eyes flickering back to the paper occasionally as she read the spell:
"Between two worlds, the walls rarely fault, The universe's secrets forever locked in a vault—"
A green glitter began to brew beneath Rainbow's hooves, hissing like a snake, curling and twining around her legs, ruffling her coat. Rainbow's pupils dilated in astonishment; jolts of both terror and anticipation rushed through her as she eyed the dancing wisps of magic wearily. "It's working!" Twilight whispered tempestuously, oblivious of Rainbow's growing alarm.
"But now, as I wish to no longer watch from below, The true dimensions are shaped to reality, and begin to show—"
Twilight's voice stopped abruptly again, but this time because she was taken aback by a huge force of magic, knocking the book from her levitation orb. Huffing furious breaths around the room, the green magic was now a vast whirlwind, rushing and tearing down the library piece by piece. Rainbow Dash was nowhere to be seen - she had been absorbed by the power of the tornado. But this was no controllable tornado. Not even for a weather pony like Rainbow. Twilight gawked at the treacherous twister, swirling, ripping, unstoppable: she instinctively stepped back and hid under the table from the ghastly winds.
"Rainbow Dash?!" She called, but doubted an reply. The roar of the blizzard would block out any noise besides. "RAINBOW DASH!" She yelled once again, franticly searching the room for any sign of cyan blue, or a ribbon of rainbow hair; she listened for Rainbow's desperate cries - even a headstrong pony like Rainbow Dash would surely be overwhelmed by this experience - but the whistling cyclone rolled on, refusing any sound to escape. Twilight's eyes shimmered with fresh tears of remorse and worry as she crouched and sheltered from the evil, emerald storm. "How could I be so impetuous?" She admitted through tears, but only she could hear her feeble cries. Why, she could barely hear herself think among the agonising howls.
Minutes passed and the violent hurricane dismissed any sign of dying down. Twilight had lay, her face buried in her hooves, crying helplessly. She couldn't even recall what time of day it was, or how long she had lay there, but she was so overcome with fear that she declined any chance of finding out. Clearly, the enraged mistral was the dominant one here. It's bellowing rumble was unbearable, and by now it shone a flamboyant neon green which stung Twilight's eyes whenever she strained to look at it. Snivelling chokes were all Twilight could manage when she tried to call for help, but she only cracked up into a flustered hysteria: nopony was going to hear her. They might be able to hear the terrifying bawl of the storm, they might even be able to witness it as it tore down the library. But nopony was brave enough to try and stop it. Nopony except Rainbow Dash....
"... Rainbow Dash!" A faint shriek echoed in my head, like somepony in pain. Twilight. I'm here! I was unable to find my voice, my throat closed. I wanted to find Twilight, but I couldn't move. My muscles were stiff and I couldn't find the will to contract them. For the first time in my life, I was scared. All I remember was being in Twilight's library, surrounded by the giant green funnel, swallowing me, trapping me. I had tried to call for help, but I couldn't even hear my own voice, let alone anypony else's, against the tremendous, deafening winds. Poor Twilight, she must have been terrified. Every time I tried to uncover more of what had happened, a tall, strong wall just blocked the memories out. Everywhere was black, tinted by orange beneath my lids which I recalled as sunlight (that, I could feel warming gently on my cheek); only my lucid memories played like a film over and over again in my mind that guided me and reminded me of who I was. A sudden blaring noise blurted through my absent-mindedness, shattering the silence into a thousand pieces. Within seconds, it had passed. I had jumped out of my skin, still blind and oblivious to my surroundings. Aching awfully, I let out a moan, bewildered by the sound that left my mouth - not only because I didn't recognise my own voice, but because I didn't even remember having a voice. My head was swimming, and suddenly I felt like a completely new soul. I had no clue where I was, what I was doing. Who I was. What I was.
The nerves at the end of my limbs twitched with an intense desire to know what was at the end of them. They felt surprisingly loose and free to flex. My whole body - or at least I think so - was sprawled on this rough, sharp surface, pinpoints jabbing into my forehead and my bare arms. I shuffled a little in discomfort, feeling the relief as the pressure released, but instead they just dug into a different part of my body. I winced, my lips turning into a snarl, and my tongue ran across my bottom and top teeth: they were small segments, pristine and minute like a young... Person? Now, where have I heard that word before?
I hadn't.
But there was no hesitation in thinking it, it came naturally, even if I didn't know the definition. I guess it's like you just know that your mum is your mum: nobody ever literally tells you, you just know. Nobody. There's another foreign word. What's going on? It's starting to really tug at my curiosity. If I don't find out soon, I think I'm going to freak out.
That's unusual. I've always been the one who kept pure certitude out of... Out of whom, exactly?
Right. That's it. I'm going to open my eyes.
Radiant sunlight illuminated all that I could see, dazzling me. There was no restraint as my arm shot up to shield my frail eyes, squinting and turning my head as if to escape the light. Catching a glimpse of the limb that flew across my face, I choked in shock. What is this? What is this? That was all my brain seemed to shout momentarily. This was not me.
A slender, beige arm, stretching and clicking as I rotated and examined it. Tiny bumps that shivered on the bare skin, minuscule hairs that stood up on end. No magnificent, sky blue coat. Gulping, I casually pushed myself up with my other stick of an arm, scanning every inch of my new body. No, not my new body: this was not me. At the end of the lean arm, tenuous tentacles that clasped with no extremity of the space before them; their only fascination to explore and grab everything, travelling in spasms down my arm. Not my arm. The arm. So bony and fragile... It made me dizzy. Dropping my head downwards, I was dumbfounded by the structure in which I now seemed to be. An outstretched, gracile figure, curved every now and then. The legs - I think - were long, aciculate, bowed inwards, and at the end were a pair of bumpy red, blue and white trainers. They were oddly perched, stubby projections, and although I could not see beneath them, I felt a number of more joints wiggling and cracking, deprived of major movement by the shoes. Extending and folding the legs, I observed in the middle of each leg the round caps that separated the two broad muscles, wobbling and rolling in directions. My eyes bulged at the grotesque anatomy.
I investigated the new body over and over, sighed as I came to terms with the fact that Rainbow Dash was no longer a pegasus from Equestria, but this abnormally skinny creature, tossed up in some place I'd surely never seen or heard of. My thoughts glided back to Twilight, a memory that had just returned to me. The unicorn must be distraught. She'd done nothing more than taken my life away as a pony. I tried not to feel convictive, but it was hard to forgive. I had no idea what future lay ahead of me now, whether I would ever return home, or whether I'd have to start a new life here... I shuddered at the thought. Twilight wouldn't let that happen, she'd find a way soon enough.
Accepting that this was the form I was sticking to for the time-being, I was no longer able to resist the urge to run my fingers - the word had shortly registered with my brain - over my peculiar self. I smoothed over my legs, traced the curves and reached up to my face. Oblivious of what I would actually look like, I began to wish so very much to see my face. The only ways I could have judged myself so far was by seeing my elongated body, and I wondered how pretty or ugly I appeared. I ran a hand through my new mane; soft, loose hairs, clear of my face and trailing down my shoulders. I could just about see the colours: a rich, vibrant red looking like fire merged with orange and yellow to my right and a deep emerald green with a hint of royal blue to my left. I smiled contentedly; I still had the same awesome rainbow hair. I wasn't too let down by the absence of my tail, it had always got in the way anyway. My hands brushed and tugged at my clothing: tight, frayed denim tie-dye shorts, fastened by a braided belt; a grooved teal tank top, just big enough to hide my flat stomach. Despite being totally unaware of what species I was, I was beginning to warm to the figure as quite attractive.
Eventually, I figured that I couldn't sit here (on the stabbing concrete, as I had determined) forever. Might as well but these sporty legs to use. Or at least, they looked sporty. How different could athleticism be portrayed in a different body than to my original? Hauling myself from the ground, my legs automatically swept under me until they pushed from a crouch, up, up, till I stood at my full height. I staggered unsteadily, the alien body flailing it's arms to keep my balance. Unsure of how to make the next step, my knee buckled forthwith as I rolled on the balls and the heels of my feet aimlessly in attempt to walk forward - I tumbled to the ground, feeling the uncomfortable stones jabbing into my back this time. I moaned.
Primarily, I could now take in my surroundings. Swaying trees of pink and white blossoms, appealing to me as if they were delicacies, although my stomach refused any thought of food right now. Other trees flourished with green sprouts, their leaves tinged with yellow. The layout reminded me of an avenue I'd once walked down in Canterlot, the pavement scattered with a few fallen buds. The rich mahogany trunks on which they stood were thick, blocking the view beyond them. I chuckled to myself. I wasn't ever going to find out what was beyond them if I can't even walk! Shuffling towards one of the trees, I grabbed it's rough surface and dragged myself up. Still holding onto the tree for support, I peered round the edge. A road. That was the simplest way to put it. A grey, wide road, desolate of any vehicles, but different to any road back in Equestria. Divided into halves by white dashed lines, lined with a selection of walls and fences. Gardens. Not such a common thing in Ponyville, as everypony just shared the land and parks. Behind the walls were rather bland, contemporary rooftops, some huffing out black smoke from chimneys. I gagged... This place seemed horribly industrial and boring. I longed to see the cheerful, colourful houses of Ponyville again, the jolly faces of my fellow ponies. My stomach churned up a vile sickness: homesickness. Turning away from the abhorrent buildings, I closed my eyes tightly, trying to block it all out. I puffed, forcing back down the panic that slowly made it's way up my throat, but my shivers made it hard to control my poignant state. I was quivering distressfully by now, scratching at the tree bark with fumed agony, beads of sweat in the creases of my frown, I did only what my instinct told me: run. Some petty little conscience told me that I could run away from all the pain. My feet were thundering, as well has my heart, on the concrete as I scarpered across the yard. Though I had opened my eyes, I could barely see as my hair blew in my face and stuck to it. Suddenly, all the aching in my muscles and the violent nausea came back to me and raged. Despite how much I wanted to stop and recover, my only desire was to keep running. Away from the buildings. Away from this world. Whilst I considered the impossible prospects that staying here would do me any good, I knew that there was no way to escape so effortlessly. Huh, effortless? What am I thinking? I'm going to be stuck here forever...
There was no time for thinking ahead as I dashed, no reason to stop. Reaching the end of the yard, I found myself at the edge of another road, and I was forced to halt. The swooshing trees I had left behind me, and where I stood now was more like a high street corner. Just beyond a crooked wooden gate, I spotted luscious grass, the long blades waving in the wind as if they were calling for me to lie on their comfy bed. Scorching as ever, the sun glinted and hazed the road in the distance, and I could not focus my tired eyes very far. Without any hesitation or clue where I was to go next, I stumbled like a drunkard into the middle of the road, shuffling now, out of breath from fleeing. My heartbeat was starting to slow back to normal. How cowardly I had acted. All I needed was a rest, to clear my head. Everything around my vision now was blurred, my only goal to reach the welcoming grass. I had noticed how dry my throat was, but I still had no desire to eat. Nearly there... Just a few more steps...
That same blaring noise. An anguished, boisterous noise. It's honk was deafening me. I spun around, and my eyes were met by a huge metallic machine that barged it's way toward me. I opened my mouth to scream, but no sound came out; every inch of my body froze to the spot in pure terror. Another humongous boom, yelling at me, followed by an excruciating squeal, wailing, shouting. The monster failed to detain it's speed as it charged toward me, and in the few seconds that seemed to slow down in motion, I was glued there securely in place. My heart now raced more than ever: the vast machine circled in attempt to decelerate, but it was too late.
I'm not sure whether I closed my eyes to hide myself from the hideous advance, or whether I just faded away, as an unknown force hit me and my nerves lost all feeling. In a way, I was flying again. But as soon as the thump echoed through my lost head, and my mind began to cloud into a deep sleep, I knew no more.
Continuous, irritating, screaming... A bizarre sound that had drilled it's way through my head since I had become conscious, unless that was just my terrible headache. There were no pauses, changes of tone, or rhythm. Just the same, mournful noise. I was reliving the scene when I first woke up on this world, oblivious as to where I was and who I was. But this time, I knew so clearly who I was, and more importantly, why I was here. Only I had not the strength or will to open my eyes and explore my surroundings. Why should I? I feel like this world has let me down, even though I haven't even spent twenty four hours here yet. Or have I? That, I did not know. Still, what would lie ahead of me if I were to open my eyes once again? I can't stand this feeling of insecurity. Nothing can help me see the light again, nothing will shine like the sun did that first time I awoke. Just pure, pitch black. I don't care if I stay like this for the the rest of my days. I have nothing left to live for. I wish for anything but that rowdy, disorientating ordeal being repeated. I wish for just peace.
I wish I had never agreed to come here.
What the heck - how was I to know I would end up in this dump? All I wanted was to help my friends, to support Twilight in her studies, to remain loyal no matter what. Well, this is what I get. Serves myself right. Where are my friends? My support? I have none. Endless questions flooded in my mind. Surely Twilight didn't intend this for me... No, she can't tell the future, and she most definitely would not want me to start off so bad. As much as I really hated using the word for my own sake, I really needed it: Twilight is gonna rescue me soon. I'm so emotionally and physically drained, I don't know what I want, but I do know that I need rescuing. So I guess that is all I desire. My dreams in the past are no worry to me now, because how am I going to ever achieve them if I'm stuck here? I see no way I can continue life normally, not after what's happened.
I think I'm just going to go back to sleep. Maybe when I wake up, I'll be back home, in Ponyville, where I belong.
"...Allie, sweetie...?" A soft, hopeful voice interrupted my only just sound sleep. Can't they take their conversation somewhere - wait - there's someone else here? Someone who's language I was understanding? The painful tension in my muscles relaxed a little, and for once I noticed that I was lying on a more comfortable surface than the first time I awoke. I was sinking pleasantly into linen sheets, my head placed gently on a plump cushion. For now, I did not register what the voice had said, but I didn't care. I was safe, I was back in Equestria. I knew Twilight would work it out. Yawning, my mouth turned into an appeased smile. Lightly, I began to open my eyes, my eyelashes tickling my lids. The snow white sheets gleamed like crystals, disorientating my vision. I blinked and squinted a few times, before the blurs began to focus.
Oh, no. No, this is not happening. I'm dreaming.
Instantly, I was taken aback as my arm - not my arm, the stupid alien arm belonging to the body I was placed in - draped in front of my face. My eyes bulged in terror and I shot backwards in attempt to escape the unreal limb, only to be met with a stab of pain around my stomach, forcing me to double over in agony. I made a short, hissing breath and wiggled, but the pain increased.
"Honey, are you OK?" The same voice rang, closer to me, thick with concern. Again, I took no notice of what she (I identified the voice as female) said, I don't see how it was important to me. I groaned and hid under the duvet. I didn't want to look up. What if there were more of the aliens? So far, preventing myself from having a heart attack isn't going too well. Tears began to well up in my eyes, but I wiped them away with my other hand, the numb hand that had been squashed under my body for the majority of the time I lay here. It was shaking violently, along with my faltered breath, but a sudden pressure held me still.
"Shhh, you'll be just fine, baby," The female's voice cooed again. I froze - she's getting a bit too friendly for my liking... Why, in the name of Celestia, is she calling me that? I haven't met her, and I don't plan on it! Her hand, I assume, was pressed against my shoulder, the thin duvet acting as the only restriction allowing our skin to contact. She stroked me gently. I was so tense, but her careful hand was surreal, calming every nerve in my body: my shivers died down, and I gulped a sob away. She continued to make shushing noises, but I refused to give in. Though the pain was still unbearable, I could lie through it. I don't get it, why is she being so nice to me? Why is she acting like she knows me so well, addressing me as "baby"? Maybe aliens are just really acceptant and forgiving.
"Is she gonna come round?" A new voice broke the silence. A shrill, naive voice, like a young girl's.
"Of course she will, she's a strong girl, you know that." Replied the mature female. I don't understand. How do they know these things? What if I've been here so long, unconscious, that they've used their alien technology to read my mind...? "Doc said it's a fractured rib. She's lucky - could have been a lot worse considering the size of that bloody lorry..." She mumbled.
"Why is she hiding away? I want to see her." Questioned the girl with a whimper. I sensed another body shuffle closer, rustling the sheets.
"Give her time, Stacy. She's going through a lot right now," Too right I am. "Don't worry, she'll be back to her normal self soon." The female voice whispered. That, I hoped myself, but I could hardly see it in my foggy mind of confusion. These voices were so caring, it was hard to fear them. They cared for me. My life was to become a complete waste of time, crammed with discomfort and unanswerable questions, or I was to be protected, even loved, by these moral creatures. Either way, I was going to have to put up with it until Twilight figured out a way to bring me home.
Home.
What if this is home? I gave a submissive, woeful sigh, and much to the little girl's delight, pulled the duvet down to reveal my tear-stained cheek. I did not turn around to face them. I feared they would be built the same way of which I had examined upon my first awakening, but I knew I had to stay cool. They know something I don't, and if I freak out now...
"Allie!" Shrieked the girl, bouncing up to my bedside. "Allie?" She repeated. Allie. So that's what they wanna call me. I wanted so bad to say, "no, my name is Rainbow Dash." but I wasn't even sure if I had the strength to speak at all. I also wasn't sure that I was indeed Rainbow Dash, because I certainly didn't feel like it. I felt the girl's body warmth beside me, and then something she did changed me drastically. She took my hand, my weak hand, loosely in the tiny curves of her smooth palm. The heat from her hand drained me, and refilled me with a feeling of security. I took one deep, fulfilled breath and opened my eyes once again. There she stood.
The most innocent looking creature I had ever seen. Her face, lined with a delicate smile, was so perfectly rounded, her skin a fair ivory but with ravishing rosy cheeks. Framing her face were bunches of golden curls, tied with red ribbons in bows. Her wide eyes were a fantastic sky blue, with hints of white just like the clouds themselves.
"You're crying," She whispered, her own fresh tear rolling down her check. It disheartened me to see such an angelic young child cry. "Does it hurt bad?" She wiped the tear dry with her spare hand. I wanted to reply, but nothing I could say could surely cheer her up. The presences in the room had shrunk to just me and her, as she tried to sniff up her tears. "We're all really worried about you, you know." She added through her snivels. What puzzled me the most was her function to care for my troubles above her own. It's like it was their duty to assure I was safe. Yeah, anypony would do that back in Equestria, but this was different. They had obviously stood by me and waited for me to wake up. Someone they'd never met before. It's rather frightening, yet comforting at the same time. Staring into the girl's glistening eyes, I couldn't keep watching her distress grow.
"Not so much." I finally answered her question with a choke of both shock and mere amusement. My voice! I sound just like myself. Yep, I'm still me - then, why am I here, like this? I focused back at the girl, her face lighting up a little, her smile spreading.
"Good! Daddy will be so pleased! You've no idea how much he's worried about you - he said he'd come visit you this morning but he was waaaay too busy with work and stuff, but mummy said she would bring me to see you, because she said it'd make you feel better and -"
"Why are you doing this for me?" I spat, but softened as soon as I saw the girl frown, disappointed. I was surprised at the tone I had achieved shortly after discovering I still had my voice.
"Because..." She dropped my hand, which she had been gripping so tightly it had turned numb as my other one. She looked away and up across the room to something I could not see. "Mummy...?" Her voice cracked. Trailing away, she went out of my view. I closed my eyes again, sorrowful for the poor girl's discourage.
"Honey, it's fine, she's just a little disorientated." I could here the older female say under muffled cries. "I tell you what, we'll leave your sister to clear her head, and we'll visit again tomorrow." The door swung a few times before shutting. Then, silence again.
My brain stopped. Nothing else filtered except that word: sister. That's it. This is a dream. I keep telling myself that Twilight's gonna bring me back, but when, in the name of Celestia, is she actually going to? Heck, I'm gonna need a mental examination when I get back from this place.
For the last time, I shut my eyes tight, letting my thoughts drift back to Ponyville. I saw my friend's faces. But they couldn't see me. Wha... They were worried for me? Fluttershy is crying... Rarity is handing her a hankerchief. Applejack... I don't see Applejack's face hidden under her hat. How I wished to be with them... But all I could do was lie here, lie here until sleep swept me up again.
Hey, Rainbow Dash! Quit wallowing in self pity and listen to me would you!
Twilight?! I jumped put of my skin.
About time! I've been trying to get to you for days! I wish you'd let me in sooner... Twilight's voice rang in my head.
Wha - how - where are you? The image of a flustered Twilight formed in my head.
I'm in your dream. It wasn't easy to get here, though, and I don't have much time.
If you can get inside my head, why can't you bring me home? I fumed.
Dash, it's not that easy. Now, will you please listen to me?
Wait, days, you say? I've been out for days and you've only just got to me?
I told you, it wasn't easy. I have to tell you something very important—
More important than bringing me home?
Shush! This determines your future, Rainbow Dash, and if—
YOU determine my future. Twilight, you're the one who can do all the magic!
Rainbow Dash! Zip it! Yes, I do magic. Yes, I'm sorry for sending you here. Yes, you'll be home soon, but if you don't shut up and listen, you won't be. She cleared her throat. Rainbow Dash, you're still on Earth, you're just in a parallel world. You've been transformed into a human, a two-legged, two-armed naked animal that speaks the same language as us and has extremely high intelligence as a whole. But you've not just been transformed into one: you've been placed in the body of your parallel world self, Allie Tundrell, a human with near identical traits and personality to you.
What? Twilight, what does this mean? Tell me how to get home? I was eager to get on with things. Yes, learning about a new species was interesting, but it's not like I was gonna need it!
I haven't finished! Allie Tundrell, however, is here, in Ponyville, in your body. She woke up, the same way as you did, having no idea where, who or what she was. Must've been a shock... She muttered under her breath. Anyway, just like you, the only difference is your hair colours - you have your rainbow mane and Allie's kept her bright blonde hair. Don't worry, Allie is asleep now. Suffered a really bad injury on her arrival here... Luckily she's pretty much come to terms with the fact that -
Pfft, why would I worry about Allie? I sneered in my mind. More importantly, why would you? Don't you care about what I'm going through right now?
Rainbow! I saw Twilight's impatient frown. You and her are more alike than you think. You must have landed roughly, that's why she's got it so bad this end.
Twilight, I've fractured a frickin' rib, apparently! My anger started to boil.
I know, I know... She acknowledged.
So, are you gonna tell me how I'm gonna get home? C'mon, I'm listening.
... I don't know how to say this, but... She hesitated, I dreaded the next sentence she would speak. You won't be coming home for a while. And I'm really sorry about that. The counter spell I've been working on - trying to work on - is harder than anything I've ever tried before. It's linked with another planet, Rainbow. Extra-terrestrial magic can be extremely dangerous. I guess... I guess the first time I asked you to help me with the spell, I wasn't thinking. This is my fault, I accept that, but for now, this is your home. It has to be. Don't worry, I'll still be able to talk to you in your dreams, since I'm getting better at this spell. But bringing you back... I can't explain or imagine how difficult it will be. So... You'll just have to put up with it, I'm afraid. I-it's not so bad, you might get to like it on there... Her voice was becoming more of a stutter, and I could tell she was on the brink of tears.
It's OK. I reassured her. As much as I doubted I could live happily here, Twilight had given me the apology she owed. More than that. If only I could prove it wasn't all her fault.
It is my fault. She interrupted my reverie. Is she reading my mind? Yes, I can read your mind whilst using this spell. But, don't think there's anything you could have done, because this was entirely my idea. I-it's just unfortunate that it turned out your problem as well as mine... She sniffed.
Twilight, I'm sorry...
There's nothing for you to be sorry for. I told you, it's me who's to blame for this mess.
C'mon, it was a mistake. Mistakes happen. From what you've told me, everything's gonna be just fine. Nopony's more reassuring than you when it comes to problems. Thanks... Twilight weeped, but I visualised a weak, thankful smile on her face. After a few moments silence, I decided to break it.
Soo... Got any books about living as a human?
Twilight chuckled. No, but I could ask Allie. She's awake now. I heard the muffled thuds of her hooves get quieter as she left. Suddenly I felt so alone in my dark head, empty of thoughts, and longed for Twilight to be back soon. Minutes passed, however, and she did not return. I started to fret - what if the spell has worn off? I considered aborting my wait and falling into a real sleep, but I wanted to stay as far away as possible from waking up to those distraught faces of the humans again.
Twilight? I called, searching every corner of my imagination, but she seemed to have gone completely. Then, an abrupt call shattered the silence yet again. I was relieved of Twilight's return - until I noticed the frightful tone of her shout. It was beginning to fade away: whistling above it was a high whir of magic. The spell was ending. I called her name again, hearing her struggle to raise her voice above the noise.
She said - Twilight attempted for a first time, but failed to surpass the bellowing wind. She said - She tried again, unaware that I could hear her. I don't think she would be able to receive my reply now, even if I found the guts to. The noise was a deafening shriek by now, giving me an awful headache. I felt myself cringing at the unpleasant commotion. I knew she had gone. The uproar began to die down immediately, but I no longer felt the need to sleep soundly, after Twilight had failed to deliver her answer. Concentrating, I slammed an invisible door, blocking out the remaining noise, and snapped my eyes open.
For a split second, Twilight's last words echoed in my head. Look in her diary. That must have been what "she said".
The first noise I had heard was enlightening: a wildly joyful chirp of a bird who's song had brought the coming of dawn. In the hours of darkness, pain and boredom, the birds voice filled me with a hope that not all was lost. Gradually, I flickered open my eyes, which were blinded by the early morning light. I waited for the enthralled voices of the humans to bombard me with more questions, but the room seemed to be empty. The occurrence that I had dreaded the first time I had come to Earth returned to me: I was very, very alone. This time, however, I was not scared. Twilight had assured me there was nothing to worry about. Despite her absence, I felt secure, still wrapped up in the heated sheets.
Time to wake up, properly.
Letting out a groan, I pushed myself up with my hands to pivot my body into a more comfortable sit. My weak fingers were shaking as I hauled my weight on them. Shivers shot down my back as the covers slid off the bed - I must have stirred quite a bit in my sleep, for the duvet was crumpled and completely out of place. Once again, I ran my index finger over my sculpted face, still flummoxed at my complexion. Over my nose (and I must admit in my nostrils), my delicate eyelids and ticking lashes; I pressed and tugged at my soft, plump lips. Lips were the strangest thing, so far. As a pony, they weren't such a problem, but here, they were rather obtruding and off putting. My nose, on the other hand, was a minor relief: I could see further in front of me than I could with that great muzzle. Oh, but I knew I would come to miss that muzzle... Anyhow, since my encounter with Twilight, I had promised myself not to sulk on those small doubts. I felt the need to stretch my arms high above my head, my bedraggled hair brushing my bare skin as I did so; suddenly I felt more awake. I felt ready for anything that could possibly stand in my way of the day ahead.
Placing one deadened foot in the floor (I wore the same multicoloured trainers), I let it rest there till I sensed the ground beneath it. I heaved my other leg beside it, and taking a deep breath, I pushed off with my hands. A short wave of dizziness knocked me slightly aside, and I found myself grabbing the closest object to me - the bedside table - to maintain my balance. After recovering from my lightheadedness, I was fully alert. Scanning the room for the first time, I noticed the incredible dullness of it. White-grey walls with mouldy green curtains that only let the streak of morning light through. In the corner was a single glass door, of which the closed blinds also concealed the outside. I was, however, determined to explore the room further. Limping towards the shut curtains, I reached out and touched the fabric with the tips of my fingers. As it swayed from the contact, I tightened my grip on the curtain and began to pull it back, squinting my eyes to shield them from the rays of light that poured in. Then, the whole room was illuminated with dancing light through the swaying trees outside. I was enchanted. I stood, mesmerised by the alluring light. I don't know how long I stood there, but my musing was disrupted when the unexpected bash of the door opening sent me evading across the room; my unsteady legs kept me stumbling backwards until I crashed into the bedstead. I grabbed the bed with one hand and my throbbing thigh with the other, but quickly returned my glance to the source of the opening door: a human dressed in a long white robe was holding a clipboard and peering down at me through her glasses with an amused expression.
"Good morning," She said with a slight snicker. "How are you feeling today?" All I could do was stand and stare, still clinging to the bed for support. My eyes were bulging in terror, and I gulped uneasily. "Oh, my, you're still not quite with it, are you? Bless..." She trailed off, and began fumbling in the drawers beside the bed. Before I could register what she had said properly, she had pulled out some documents and began to speak again. "Anyway, it's good news, my dear. Your doctor has confirmed you well enough to go home today. Doesn't that sound better?" She asked with a sweet smile. A great disappointment came over me - as much as I hoped for "home" to be back in Ponyville, I doubted that was what she meant. My only conclusion was that I was going back to Allie's home. Allie's family, Allie's life. Twilight had failed to provide me with human life instructions, but I was pretty sure I could work it out myself. However, I was still genuinely worried - I'd be a right numbskull if I hadn't noticed the odd reactions of my fellow humans whenever I said something strange or completely blanked them. I considered making conversation with the woman, but I was hesitant to say anything, for I knew I would most likely mess up my words in my current state. "Is there anything I can get you? Breakfast, perhaps?" Added the woman after letting me get my head round things. It didn't take long for that word to register. Instantly, my stomach growled ferociously at the thought of food - there was no way I was rejecting it.
"Breakfast... Would be nice." I murmured, my mouth dry and voice raspier than ever. I added a weak smile to make me seem a little less rude and demanding, but I was taken aback by her kindness.
"Of course." She replied.
She hurried out the room, and within five minutes she returned with a tray full. With a pleased smile, she waited patiently for me to get comfortable on the bed before carefully handing me the tray, aiding me all the way until it was safely on my lap. Then she stepped back, allowing me to eat. I looked down at the food. I recognised a large, crumbling pain au chocolat, a bowl of oats and a shiny, delicious Red Gala apple. There were also tiny jars of jam and butter, and a glass of fresh orange juice. This... This seemed like heaven. Not only had I not eaten anything since my arrival here, but I don't even remember having such a magnificent breakfast in Ponyville! Despite my rumbling stomach, I could only sit and stare in awe at the food. I had forgot that the woman was still standing there, watching over me.
"Oh, sorry! How rude of me!" She giggled. "I'll leave you to it." And she turned to leave before I had a chance to protest (I had began to like her company). Just as I was about to dig into the cereal, the lady added, "Just call my name - Victoria - if you need anything else." and with that, she departed. Victoria... Nice name, I thought. Sounded like a princess. My daydream was interrupted by an angry grumble and a wave of hunger, so without further ado, I dived into the food. I would have complained at the typical hospital food blandness, but right now, I never wanted the indulgence to end. In less than a few minutes, I had wolfed down every single crumb or drop of the meal.
Feeling full and refreshed, I placed the empty tray on the bedside table, and settled back a little. My eyes fluttered shut as I dozed, but I refused to fall asleep, as I did not want to be interrupted so violently again. I knew the rest of my "family" would come to rouse me, excitable to take me home, so I tried various things to occupy my mind. I hummed songs that me and my friends had sung back in Equestria; I flicked the light switch on and off, feeling my fingers tire to the new use; I tapped the wall, even creating my own rhythms, but boredom overtook and I bashed the wall with my knuckles after some time.
"Whatever are you doing?!" Came a perplexed call from a voice I recognised. I drew back my arms quickly and sat up, giving Victoria a sheepish grin. "No worries, I know how you feel." She granted. "You must be terribly bored... " I watched her closely as she roved about the room, barely able to see around a tall pile of clean sheets she was carrying. As she placed them in a drawer, she took a step back, scratched her head and peered into thin air, in thought for a second. "Ah yes," Victoria suddenly started again. "I knew there was something else. Your parents are here to discharge you, so if you'd like to follow me?" She offered me her hand with a broad smile on her face. I blinked up at her, feeling like a naive child, but took her hand nonetheless - I noted that I was still weak, despite feeling better, as Victoria pulled me to my feet with little effort. Step by step, Victoria guided me across the room, and finally, out. I was overcome with a thirst for knowledge of the place beyond the walls. Led down a long, echoing corridor, I felt rueful for prying at other hospital rooms, other humans... But I was so big-eyed and curious of the new environment, I could not ignore my surroundings. Victoria was almost dragging me as I scuffed down the corridor, completely absorbed in a daydream. I forced an apologetic smile, but she only smiled warmly back and, to my surprise, let my hand drop to my side, trusting me to follow her. Well, I wasn't planning on going elsewhere! I hurried after her until we came to the end and through double doors, into, what I guessed was the reception area. Sitting on a round, purple sofa was a woman and a man I had not seen before, but I recognised a slight similarity in their faces to the little girls' who appeared yesterday. It made sense to believe that these were her parents, therefore, they were Allie's - mine - too. Instantly, the woman rose to her feet and came towards me, embracing me in a motherly hug.
"Oh, darling! I'm so glad you're OK now! How are you feeling? Do you want anything?" She bombarded me with questions. I could only rigidly stand there with an awkward expression, but I felt ashamed for doing so. I was going to have to do a better job than this to keep myself - and the rest of the family - sane. "You must be awfully tired of this place... Well, you're coming home now!" She was avid, planting numerous kisses on my face. When she pulled away, I beamed and looked her in the eyes, her own pools of hazel shimmered before releasing a single tear. It rolled slowly down her cheek and over her simpered lips; my heart felt her sorrow and longed to comfort her. My eyes unfocused, a little teary, but I didn't want to let myself get too attached and wrapped up in human emotions yet. I just continued to force my smile, which, for now, made her happy. Victoria had waved her goodbyes to me by now and shuffled away, and the man got to his feet.
"Alright, let's take you home, kiddo," He said warmly, and took my hand. The woman took my other, and together we walked out of the hospital reception. I glanced over my shoulder, glad to leave that place behind. I was, however, extremely cautious about where I was to go next. We took it slowly across a large space full of those monstrous metal automobiles (I had learned to accept their use on Earth, despite it's almost killing me), whilst the pair assured that I trod carefully, supporting my weight all the way. When we got to a bold, bulky metallic black one, the man stopped and took some clinking keys from his pocket; he pressed a button and the machine flashed in response. Twilight never told me that humans used magic... Huh, she didn't have to - I could see why they would choose it, it's pretty cool - seemed like all kinds of humans could conjure it.
I hadn't realised that the couple had released me as I stood there gawping at the vehicle; I hobbled hurriedly as soon as I noticed them both staring at me with confusion. The man heaved the metal door open with an enormous clunk and directed me in. Trying not to show my extremely nervous expression, I faced down and climbed awkwardly onto a surprisingly soft, cushioned seat. With great force, he then slammed it shut, making me flinch slightly. I sat, unaware of the next action. Were we to teleport? Or to speed to our destination?
"Click in," Chirped the woman, turning to face me with a reassuring smile.
"Huh?" I asked, puzzled.
"... Put your seatbelt on..." She whispered, and then reached out to point at my left side: "Just there, sweetie..." This time, she looked forceful of her smile when turned back to the front and wiped her eyes with her sleeve ("Got a tissue?" She had asked the man.). Following the woman's orders, I searched on my left to discover an odd shape attached to a stiff belt that extended right across me; it tucked quickly and perfectly into a red pocket with a click on my right. I guessed it was some kind of safety belt - however, that cautioned me of the bumpy ride that lay ahead. Suddenly, a great roar broke out, frightening the living daylight out of me. For a second it rattled violently, then swept into a smooth departure, rolling gently along the road with very little discomfort. I was baffled at this new invention (thought Equestria might do well with them) and exhausted after all of today's weird experiences of different emotions, but right now, all I could focus on was the outside as it zoomed past us in a blur - an outside that I had never seen before.
