Lightning Dust lost her dreams and her parents, but she still has a daughter. Can this filly bring hope to the broken life of an Ex Wonderbolt trainee? Or will her stubborn nature ruin her life even further?
When training to become a future Equestrian Wonderbolt, Lightning Dust made poor life choices. She abused her parents encouragement and provisions and instead took life into her own hooves. She cared little about following a good example, she only cared about herself and her own feelings. One night she sneaked out of her family home and had fun with a stallion. He was not willing to stay and fled her life, leaving a life changing new addition for her in the process. She pays no attention to the foal, leaving her newborn under her parents control. Then it all comes crashing down.
Her dreams dead by her own doing and her parents now deceased after a family tragedy. She is left with only her first born daughter. With help from her brother Sky and his friends, can Lightning put herself back together and create a true bond with her daughter, Viral Velocity?
"I didn't ask for this!" Lightning practically shouted at her parents. Though lying back first on her family couch didn't really help her in this situation. "I'm training to become a professional flier, I can't be sitting here forever waiting for it to happen!"
"Well then maybe you should have thought this would happen when you went with a stallion, at night, by yourself, and failed to realize the danger." Her mother, Star Dust, scolded her youngest daughter who was at this point sixteen.
About eleven moons ago, Lightning had been hanging around a pleasant but poorly behaved unicorn stallion. He had asked to have her come over to his house earlier in the day. Lightning's parents did not agree to this and promptly said that Lightning was not aloud to visit him. This did not stop her, she snuck out late and visited the young unicorn. He was either not in a good mood or in a very good mood but regardless. He had his way with her in his room against her will, and now even with him arrested she was still paying the consequences of her actions. She had shown the signs shortly after, and was forced to halt her practices while the foal developed. She was now nine months in, confined to the couch, and bored beyond any relief. Her parents had hammered this into her brain, it only made Lightning more aggravated as the cycles rolled onward. Her official training would began once she became the appropriate age of eighteen. Her parents had agreed to take care of her foal once she had given birth, but would not give it a name. That was to be Lightning's decision to make upon returning from the academy. She groaned again, whether from pain or frustration her parents could not tell.
"I was picked by a former Wonderbolt himself at flight school. I will not disappoint him because I am not able to... ugh. It's kicking!" Lightning began to argue further before pain shot through her abdomen and she realized that the foal was ready to burst through at any moment. Her parents finally no longer having to argue with their daughter sprang into action. Her father began to carry her out and towards the nearest hospital while her mother alerted her only sibling presently at home, Sky Stinger. He rushed down the stairs from the guest room and followed his family a short distance to the hospital. Lightning was rushed to the emergency center towards a private room where she was allowed space to proceed with the birth.
After a couple hours the doctor on duty encouraged the parents and Sky to enter the room. They did so and were met with a sleeping Lightning Dust and a foal doing the same a few feet off to the side. It was a filly, crimson red which brought a horrid reminder of the stallion as that was where she likely got it from. Thankfully that was where his genetic gifts ended. The filly was a Pegasus, she had a two tone mane and tail with shades of blue along with a similar orange compared to her mother. As they approached the newborn she reacted by opening her eyes, revealing bright fiery orange irises that looked strikingly similar to that of Lightning's. Sky gave a bit of a giggle.
"Look, she's got her mothers eyes." He said, realizing the irony of the situation since he had been a firm believer that it happened to fillies and their mothers more often than not. The parents also gave a slight chuckle at his comment. While Sky Stinger was nowhere near as good as a flier compared to her he made up for in personality and he was devoted to his family and even more so to his closest friend Vapor Trail who his parents encouraged him to hang out with. They were perfect together. He suddenly realized he had planned on having lunch with said white mare and excused himself from the room leaving the parents with the doctor and the filly. This doctor knew this family very well, especially since Lightning had been there before for a multitude of reasons not limited to failed attempts at practicing. They had shared the information of the event and had arranged with him to leave the name slot on the birth certificate blank. Hours later they retrieved the filly from her room, while they carried her out she couldn't help but look and the slumbering pony across the room. She had no idea who she was or if she would even remember her. However, destiny had only one plan for this unknowing foal and it started with punishing her mother for her poor choices.
Lightning Dust was barely even a grown mare and had not only been discharged from a military compound, but also unknowingly nearly wiped out a majority of her own countries first line of defense in 5 ponies who were considered national heroes. Lucky for her, they were unharmed thanks to the quick work of Rainbow Dash and the other recruits at the academy. That was where her luck ran dry. After a complaint from her wing pony to Captain Spitfire she had been stripped of rank, humiliated, and dishonorably discharged in that order. While she left the academy with a devastated look, the act dropped when she was no longer in sight of the place and she began furiously making her way back home. She was already expecting her parents to scold her yet again, she was going to let her fumes run dry before she wanted that confrontation. The last thing she wanted to do was make more than the Wonderbolts and Rainbow Dash mad at her, she could take that but lashing out at her parents would probably be the last straw for them.
Shortly after flying out of range of the academy she hopped onto a cloud and used her natural magic to drift in the direction of home. Now that she could rest her body after the hard work she put in for nothing, her mind was just getting warmed up and she wanted to make sure the goddess could hear her anger. With no other ponies to nearby to witness she began a tantrum of screaming, crying, and bashing at her cloud vessel for the near hour long journey. She knew it had been her fault, both Rainbow and Spitfire made that clear with actions and words, but that didn't stop her from cursing both their names. Spitfire hating her was bad enough with her being the captain and trainer, but Rainbow had been considered a best friend upon meeting her. Now not only did she no longer want to see the prismatic maned mare, she was likely to become a Wonderbolt without her.
Her anger and frustration finally subdued she looked up to see her home over the horizon. She did not expect it to be a crime scene. She stepped off her cloud mere feet from her house and was immediately met by authorities. Unsure of what to do she just complied and stood back. Thankfully there was a pony there she recognized, her brother Sky Stinger was present, along with Vapor Trail. He met eyes with her and immediately walked over with Vapor in tow. His eyes were bloodshot with tears, he had also been crying but for what reason Lightning was completely unaware. For once in her life, Lightning was genuinely concerned for her older brother.
"Sky, Sky what's going on?! Why are the police here?" She questioned hastily. Vapor looked ready to respond for him but he quickly gestured otherwise. He suckered up and delivered the heart wrenching news to his youngest sibling.
"It's... our parents. They... were..."
The Day Before
Star Dust was tending to the new addition to the family in a spare room upstairs that had once been occupied by their oldest. The foal had quickly become something of a favorite to the mare. Despite the rowdy nature of the foals true mother she was quite respectful, only crying when truly in need. This time was her normal feeding time and Star was giving her the bottle yet again. The filly was only just barely a year old, but already her playful nature was starting to become apparent. She had learned words quite fast, the simple one came first. While she did refer to Star and her husband as mom and dad the truth would become apparent in the near future. Lightning was schedule to be released from basic training by the end of the month and then the filly would meet her true parent for the first time. In preparation for this Star Dust had taught the foal two things. First she taught her how to say Lightning which caught on surprisingly quick for the foal's age, then she began associating the name with the pony. She had shown pictures of Lightning Dust to the foal who had recognized the face from the hospital. She caught on fast.
She had also somehow got wind of the word viral, though Star Dust was unsure how or why. Though it did sound nice and eventually it became her substitute name until her proper one would be given. Finishing up she tended to anything else the foal needed when suddenly a crash was heard from downstairs followed by a brief struggle she could hear from in her room. Before she could check what was happening she heard her husband scream followed swiftly by a thud. Fearing the worst she rushed the foal to a hiding place and assured her not to cry out before racing down the stairs. She was met by a grim sight.
Two figures, she recognized one as her husband and he was already gone. The other she recognized as well, the same stallion that violated her daughter a year and a half before. He had been released weeks earlier, and he had returned with malicious intent and a bladed weapon. Star Dust could barely react before he charged her with intent to end her life just like her husband.
Police had arrived on the scene just as he was making his exit, thanks to a call from the neighbors house. The suspect had already been apprehended but it was far too late for the victims. Sky had been the closest by, actually visiting Vapor for a night over. He had just left hours before the incident and was informed of the fate of his parents when he arrived. However, he knew there was a third pony in that house and immediately asked if there was any other victims. When the answer was no he begged them to enter the property and after some reluctant acceptance he entered the building that had been his childhood home. It was a mess on the first floor, but he attempted to pay it no mind. He entered the room where his niece was being kept and found her bed but not the foal. He was about to leave distraught when a faint whimper caught his ears from the locked closet. He fetched the key and gratefully found the year old filly needing attention but unharmed. He escorted her outside where she was given to authorities to be placed under proper care overnight.
Present Time
The crossroads that were Lightning's mind were already in rush hour as it was. Now with the added car crash of her parents being murdered in cold blood by the same stallion that had messed with her body? Now the road was blockaded by thoughts that were pushing their way forward. More anger and sadness were soon met with mourning among other feelings she was not very familiar with. However there was a light at the end of the packed tunnel, one Lightning would not have taken if it weren't for the road being completely blocked.
"Can... can I see my foal Sky, she is still okay right?"
Sky Stinger said no more and quickly led his sister along with Vapor to the hospital where her foal was being kept. After a brief check in and a set of condolences from the staff Lightning Dust, Sky Stinger, and Vapor Trail were lead into the fillies room. Even though she was sleeping the sound of the door opening caught her attention and she instantly hopped to her hooves and met eyes with Lightning. Lightning cautiously approached her daughter and was slightly taken aback by what she said first.
"Lightning?"
Lightning Dust was stunned silent, even though she had not seen the foal in over a year when she was born, her own daughter recognized her. Sky quickly explained the situation to his dumbfounded sister.
"That's mother's doing. She had planned on introducing you when you returned. That was before... best not think about it more." He explained. Then the foal followed up, pointing at herself.
"Viral"
"Viral? what's viral?" Lightning responded, dumbfounded yet again by her daughters extreme vocabulary. Or maybe lack thereof. She had never heard that word before in her life, then again she never really payed attention in class. This time Vapor Trail bailed her out of her stupor.
"She's been using that to refer to herself, your parents kind of just caught on and let her roll with it. I think she is introducing herself to you."
The foal pointed at her mother, then back to herself.
"Lightning, Viral"
"Viral? does she have a surname yet?" Again, Lightning questioned her brother. He responded immediately.
"Mother was going to leave that as your job. Your here now, so your honors." Was his response. Lightning had been so determined to become a Wonderbolt, she never even named her own child or even came up with any names. She thought about using her own surname like her mother did for her but that didn't quite roll off the tongue. She rummaged through a list of words in her head that were easily identifiable. Then something caught her tongue, a word that had a lot to do with her favorite part about flying and matched up perfectly with the forename Viral.
"Velocity, Viral... Velocity." Satisfied she cracked a smile for the first time since she came home and turned to her brother. "Her name is Viral Velocity."
"Viral Velocity? rolls of the tongue pretty nicely. I think it fits her and the family well. I'll go let the doctor know." With that he and Vapor left the room, leaving the mother daughter pairing all alone.
"Viral... Velocity?" Viral sounded out the word for a few seconds but eventually was satisfied with the word and took it with joy.
"Yep, that's you little filly. My daughter, Viral Velocity."
The doctor returned shortly after, finally filling out the empty birth certificate with the foal's full name and checking her out with her mother. Lightning joined her brother in the night at Vapor's house while the crime at her home was cleaned up. She slept surprisingly well despite her painful day, but it was only because maybe she did have something in her life to look forward too after all.
Lightning Dust was making the short flight to what had once been her family home from her day job. Shortly after her discharge she had to make due with a everyday weather job like any other Pegasus. It wasn't as annoying to her since she knew it was a way to provide for her filly back home, whom she managed to get Vapor Trail to take care of while she was away. Sky was never available anymore for his own reasons but that wasn't her business to put herself into. She knocked on the entrance door and was greeted by the cream white, respectful mare who led her to Viral. The filly in question had just woken up from her nap, however Lightning did not expect Sky Stinger to be present in the room as well. While she was confused to see her elder brother in the house she embraced him regardless. It wasn't every day that she would see him now that he held the family Wonderbolt title.
"Sky, I didn't expect you home at this time. What's the occasion?" Lightning Inquired. Sky took a second glance at Vapor who willingly picked up the conversation for him.
"Sky is performing with the rest of the Bolts, just out of town actually. He was stopping by to ask if we wanted to see him and bring Viral with us." She answered. Lightning took a double take and nearly walked out of the house altogether. She managed to compose herself before asking another more important question.
"Is Dash going to be there?"
It had been four years, and Lightning Dust still had not forgotten what happened that day. As much as she would have loved to watch her older brother live a dream the risk of seeing Rainbow again, especially now that she was good friends with Sky and Vapor after an incident they had experienced at the academy, was too high to warrant it.
"Lightning, she is a main attraction and a high ranking officer, of course she is performing. The public might cry out if she didn't."
"Ah yes, the popular one. Stealing the spotlight wasn't enough wasn't it, she wanted all the attention." Lightning was on the border of furious. At the same time, she had realized something. She couldn't take away this chance from her daughter, Viral would have loved to see her Uncle flying with the rest of the Wonderbolts. Maybe she would even be encouraged herself to pursue a dream of her own. After weighing her options she spoke up again. "If Viral wants to go though, I won't say no to her. Just let her know I won't be able to come. I'll have dinner ready when you three get back."
Sky wanted to protest, but it was likely the best outcome to this situation as it was. He figured Lightning wouldn't come but the fact that she let Viral go with them was a win in his book. It took some convincing from both Vapor and Lightning to get Viral to go without her mother but once she was satisfied that she would see her before the end of the day she went without resistance.
The construction of the temporary show stage had been stationed in a remote but safe location while the Wonderbolts arrived to begin their warm ups before the show. Sky had to be early to the show, as to make sure he was prepared for warm ups and the eventual performance. As he sought after Captain Spitfire to find out his responsibilities Vapor took Viral to the stands to find a seat. After being given clearance by security she made her way into the performance arena to find a seat. While doing so she managed to run into a particular rainbow maned pony. Rainbow Dash waved her over after finishing stretches.
"Vapor Trail, nice to see you here. I assume Sky is getting his assignment from Captain Spitfire?"
"Yeah, he may be oblivious sometimes but he is a sucker to authority. Probably how Twilight got to him that time at the academy. Thanks for the support again by the way." Vapor thanked her. Dash gave a disappointing look towards her.
"Well, guess it didn't amount to much regardless. Shame, you are a great flier. You could have been flying with Sky, after you resigned they had to pull Thunderlane from the reserves. Not to mention you never told me why you left."
"As much as it would be both mine and Sky's dreams, especially doing it together, I have been holding responsibilities at home. Taking care of this little one..." She gave a wink to Viral who was resting on her back between her wings. "Is sometimes a hoof full."
Rainbow gave a proud smile at the slumbering crimson red pegasus. Her mane seemed to be of a similar style to her's when she was her age if only with far less color.
"So your a mother now?"
"Celestia no Dash, Sky and I aren't quite that far yet. More of an aunt really, she is Sky's blood relative." She nuzzled the filly, causing her to stir and reveal the bright golden orange eyes. "Viral, this is Rainbow Dash. She is a close friend of the family and a Wonderbolt just like your uncle." Viral had been reluctantly shy at first, but a confident smile from Rainbow quickly flooded away that thought and replaced it with interest.
"Hey champ, your uncle is quite the flier. I'm glad to know him personally." She once again returned her attention to Vapor Trail. "Blood related? So, brother or sister?"
"Sister, Sky has many relatives though as you remember. This little one was living at the house during the..." Vapor paused, unsure on how to deliver that line of news.
"I already know well enough about that Vapor, he has spoken about his parents in his own time. There's no need for that right now."
"Right, as for which sister... i'm not exactly sure. None of his relatives were red in color, in fact most of the family has green or blue in their coats. So who she belongs too I have no idea. She hasn't stopped by yet so i don't know what to assume."
All that was a lie and Vapor knew it, and she knew how well Dash could see through her. She had done it back at the academy when she and Sky had attended. She also knew very well who Dash was but that didn't stop her from remembering how Lightning felt about her, it was likely that feeling was mutual so she had agreed to keep her a secret for the time being. Luckily this time, Dash did not barge in on her explanation. She had believed in Vapor's words, for now. She further explained that the reason she had resigned was that so she could act as Viral's caretaker until her mother was ready to takeover for her once again, at least that that was a whole truth. Without much time left Dash had to quickly make haste back to the rest of the team. Vapor escorted Viral to her VIP seat and waited as the crowds began to pour in before showtime.
After several minutes the show began without delay. Viral watched in awe with her aunt holding her up as she viewed the spectacle that was the Wonderbolts performance. She had spotted Sky numerous times as he and the others seemed to dance in the sky with precise maneuvers such as rolls, sharp turns, and extreme dives. Rainbow has been the center of attention, her bright multicolored mane zooming about with her frame as she effortlessly crossed the sky leaving a rainbow in her wake. While the rest of the performers seemed to have smoke trails, Dash was seemingly unique in both appearance and ability right down to her solo moves during the performance. Whenever she flew with other ponies she would be in the center as to align the smoke trails with her own prismatic trail. As the show concluded, Viral had been in silent awe at the absolutely inspiring ability of the pony her aunt and uncle knew so well to be called a friend. If she could speak, her voice would be at war with the cheering pink pony that also happened to be sitting a few feet beneath the pair of pegasi.
However, one thing did come to mind in the filly's thoughts, a simple musical tone. It wasn't much just simply a beat that rang through her head. She came up with it all her own, and loved every second of it as much as the show she was watching. It felt natural to her, all of it came from inside and she simply did not argue with the positive energy it provided her. Eventually the performance had to end, and with it so too did the rhythm that had filled the filly's mind.
Sky and Rainbow had left the arena together along with Vapor and Viral, the former congratulating Sky while the latter smiled in such a way at Rainbow it reminded her of a certain orange filly back home. She was glad to have another adoring fan, especially so as it had pleased her as well as Sky and Vapor. They said their goodbyes and parted ways, Sky rejoining the two he had arrived with while Rainbow joined her close group of friends that had been sitting close to Vapor.
While they were happy they had made a good impression on Rainbow and that Viral had enjoyed watching the performance, they were well aware Lightning Dust would not be happy about her daughter continuously idolizing the one pony she hated the most.
The best word to describe Lightning's mood was conflicted. She did have many feelings going through her body. She had been elated to hear the show went well and that her daughter enjoyed it. That feeling had been struck down the moment Viral said a single word, or rather a name.
"Rainbow!"
Lightning had instructed Vapor to keep an eye on Viral until she went to sleep. She attempted to hide her disgust in hearing her own daughter say the name of her greatest rival but it was little use. Now she was in her bedroom alone, crying tears of anger and hopelessness. Once again, Rainbow Dash had stolen the spotlight away from her. Now her daughter even thought more of the prismatic mare then her. It was now becoming night, with Princess Luna beginning to raise her bright moon for Equestria to rest peacefully under. Lightning had worn herself out emotionally, she decided it would be best to sleep off her feelings in hopes she would be able to salvage tomorrow. She cleaned herself off in the shower next to her bedroom, running into Vapor as she was leaving to go home to Sky Stinger. Viral had gone to sleep quickly and without resistance, she had also worn herself out during the day.
Lightning had made it a quick shower, about 5 minutes. She just wanted to sleep in hopes that it would help her emotionally. She found herself comfortable and began to doze off. Not soon after she closed her eyes she felt something wiggling into the space next to her. Groggily, she opened her eyes to try and get a look at whatever pest likely found it's way into her bed as she began to sleep. It wasn't a pest at all. Little Viral Velocity had managed to climb up into her bed all by herself and had snuggled her body right next to her mothers'. Lightning was too tired to protest, she didn't dare move and wake the peaceful filly. She just simply closed her eyes again and let her be.
"Mama Lightning?"
Lightning's body jolted with volts of electricity, but she barely moved.
"What... what is it sweetie?"
"You look sad, can I sleep with you? Will that make you feel better?"
"Uh, sure kid. Go ahead."
Lightning was well aware of the bonds between a mother and their young. They were likely to go and find their mother when they were sad or frightened. Viral was showing these traits, but in a different way. She had come to Lightning at night before, but only when Lightning had been the one showing hints of emotion. Lightning never protested the action, it was quite sweet having her daughter to sleep with in such emotional turmoil. It always relaxed her, even if she sometimes woke up to find Vapor Trail or Sky Stinger in the room waiting for her embarrassing expression.
Lightning woke up well rested for once, a nice change of pace considering she usually had work during the early morning hours. Thankfully it was her day off for the week, one she had earned since getting a job so she could support Viral's time as a foal. Lightning wanted to spend this day the only way she knew how, flying. It had been sometime since she did flying for pleasure instead of work or practice. She slipped out of the covers, making sure to not wake the sleeping filly, and made her way for the front door. A late summer day, and few clouds in the sky. Perfect weather for a couple times around the house. Nothing extreme, she didn't want to wear herself out.
She began to stretch out a bit, she didn't want to pull any muscles this early in the morning. Unbeknownst to her, Viral had slipped out of bed and began slowly walking to the door. Mama Lightning had not been there when she woke up and this was Aunt Vapor's day off. She wouldn't see Vapor Trail today. She climbed up to the window next to the door and found her mother stretching her wings and limbs. As she finished she dropped into a launch stance.
Lightning internally counted down from five. On her own count she launched into the sky, leveling out and beginning to pace herself around the property. She had decided to start with fifty rounds at a quarter what she used to do. It was a warm up. Each time she finished she increased her speed and did fifty more. Up to 70% her pace at 450 laps. She had been working for a good 45 minutes, all while her daughter watched in awe at the speed her mother was keeping. as she made her 450th lap she went all out. Her blistering pace leaving a wake of golden lightning in her trail. She hadn't flown like this since her days at the academy.
455... 460... 470... 480... 490...
Inside the house Viral's eyes began to shimmer. Lightning was just as good as the bolts, arguably better in her eyes. If That was the case, why wasn't she a member of this elite team of ponies?
"498..." Lightning had been keeping track of the laps in her head the entire time. When she was younger she could have done all these laps at full speed. She did it once before, and only one pony had been able to keep pace with her.
"499... Only one more to go."
"Think you can beat me this time?"
Lightning stop dead cold. That voice, she knew it. It was Dash for sure, but when she looked around her there were no other ponies. It took her a few seconds to realize her mind was playing tricks on her. 500 laps, just like at the academy, and she did not finish it because of the voice of a pony she hadn't seen in four years in her mind. The frustration began to build inside of her. She would have screamed if the sound of clapping hooves didn't bring her out of her trance. She looked over to the house to find Viral charging out as fast as she could run. Lightning had worn herself out for sure and landed on the ground panting. She greeted her awoken daughter with open hooves.
"That was so cool mama, even cooler than those Wonderbolts."
"You really think so sweetie?"
"Yeah, they never flew that fast at the show. You were faster than all of them, even Rainbow couldn't keep up with you!"
"Yeah, thanks kid. You know, when I was younger I looked up to them the same way you did yesterday. I wanted to be one. It... never happened the way I wanted it. Uncle Sky ended up with the honor of the family."
"Yeah, I really do want to be like them when I grow up though. I know I can do it!" Viral exclaimed jumping into the air. She fell flat on her rump, she didn't learn how to flow yet.
"That's great Viral, but not just any pony can be like the Wonderbolts. They are the best fliers Equestria has to show for and they don't just let any pony try out. You're gonna need to know how to use those little wings of yours. When I was your age my parents already had me flying."
"Will... will you show me how to fly mama?"
"Kid, that is what mothers are for. I bet you want to get started as soon as possible, but we should get something to eat first. Meet me inside."
"OK mama." Viral responded as she gleefully bounced her way back into the house. Meanwhile Lightning began to show hints of pride in her face.
Viral was looking up to her more than as just a mother, she was her hero. She did love the Bolts, she liked Rainbow most of all, but to Viral none of them compared to her mother and how great she was. Maybe Lightning could get used to this. She was going to teach Viral how to fly eventually, but now it was for a purpose. If Viral wanted to be just like her uncle or like Lightning herself she would need to put in hard work and a lot of time to practice.
Lucky for her, she had the best flyer in Equestria as a mother, teacher, and motivator.
"Flying isn't something that comes naturally to all pegasi Viral, it takes practice. Even I wasn't the best at it at your age." Lightning attempted to cheer up her daughter after another attempt failed to keep Viral airborne for more than a couple seconds.
"How are you so good at it?! I thought all pegasi were like that." Viral countered.
"That may seem like it, but not every pegasi has a talent in flying. I'm just one of the lucky ones. I was born with natural ability. Look at your uncle Sky though. He was the slowest to catch on, but now he's a Wonderbolt..." Lightning caught herself on that. Sky had a few years of age on her but she was still the better flyer. She always had been, but seeing Sky now holding the family honor of the Wonderbolt made her jealous. She had her chance at it, and now it was no longer. Not that she wanted it any more. The likelihood of her getting along with Rainbow after all this time was still slim to none.
"Does that mean any pony can be a Wonderbolt mamma?"
"Hold on there Little V, that's far from true. Wonderbolt's spend their entire lives training for the chance to be among the best. Even then, only so many ponies are picked to be honored with the chance to show their potential to Captain Spitfire and the others."
Lightning followed her daughter back inside, the crimson filly all but exhausting herself trying to get off the ground. She was still young, but Lightning was at least feeling proud that Viral's spirit and drive was definitely there. She managed to serve them up a quick and simple breakfast to get them by. Lightning knew she wasnt at all equipped to cook, but Vapor had been kind enough to lend her some tips in time. It was enough that Lightning could take care of both of them without Vapor or Sky constantly visiting to keep tabs on them.
Lightning Had taken her own steps in improving herself. Despite her Wonderbolt dream being for not she still kept herself physically healthy. She didn't do as much as when she was training, in part because she wasn't only taking care of herself. She had also begun to act more mature than she was in the Academy, attempting to set a good example for Viral so her daughter wouldn't make the same mistakes. After all, she was approaching a critical age where she would need to start finding herself. Flight school was fast approaching.
"You have flight school starting up a about a weeks time. At this rate, you should be decently ahead of all your peers. You're already getting off the ground."
"You think I'll be the popular filly mom?"
"Woah now, I think your more than popular. Your on pace to be a star attraction."
The filly jumped across the table and planted her head comfortably into her mother's chest. While taken off guard, Lightning pulled off a smile.
"Hey Viral, you realize what your doing?"
It had not yet registered in the filly's mind that the way she had made her way towards her mother had in fact gotten her airborne. The filly was hovering comfortably, her emotions driving her ability past what she thought she was capable of.
"She's doing really well, though it seems she does better with positive motivation."
"Regardless..." Sky commented. "She's progressing at a pace akin to you."
Viral was flying laps around her mother and uncle as they made their way to opening day of flight school as a trio. To Lightning, it was a big occasion. Her time at flight school was marked with some less than ideal scenarios, including discipline issues. Thankfully, Viral did not seem to share these traits. She was in fact eager to meet other Pegasi of her age, and show off her abilities.
The school, as was common, was up in the clouds. Most foals at Viral's age would be assisted by their parents, but Viral made it up to the yard on her own just fine with her family. She strode to the door with pride, and in her haste to enter ran headlong into a white colt.
"Heh, sorry."
"No big deal, you one of the new kids?"
"Yeah, Viral Velocity. You?"
"Ash Wind."
"Making new friends already little one?" A raspy voice turned the corner, revealing a bright yellow Pegasus mare. "Nice, just don't get carried away. I don't want you hurting yourself at such a young age."
"Mom, stop babying me. I can take care of myself!"
"Sure thing, now I'll be..."
The mare locked eyes with Lightning Dust as she and Sky Stinger followed Viral into the school. Sky notably tensed up, seeing his captain and sister in the same room and knowing the history between them.
"Didn't expect to see you here Dust."
"What, can't accompany family on a big occasion?"
"Look, it's nice that you want to see your family grew up and flourish. I just don't want that hindering my son's own future."
The young foals in the room met each other's eyes for a second.
"Ma'am, she doesn't want any trouble. I, or we, didn't even know Ash went to school here."
"He transferred out here to be with his friends outside of Cloudsdale. Pardon me, I do have places to be." Spitfire excused herself from the scene, having already dropped off her colt for the time being.
Lightning sighed, several negative emotions filling her.
"Of course I had to run into her again." She got down to the level of her daughter. "Viral, I know you'll do your best as a flyer. However, it's important you behave well okay? I'll know if there's any trouble you get involved in."
The filly nodded, and Ash Wind gave her a playful nudge.
"We should get going, class is starting soon."
Lightning watched on as the pair retreated into the classes, she and Sky taking off to go scratch off time while they waited for the class to finish.
For Viral, it was as school was for any filly her age. Thankfully, she wasn't alone as she and Ash meshed well together. Both of them were strong flyers, and among their classmates were the two that stood out. It was a long day of introductions, and some learning about basic flight mechanics. For the pair, it was mostly basics that their respective parents had already taken care of teaching them. It seemed to them that they were ahead of the curve in terms of experience.
Soon enough came the first test flights for the class. Ash was among the first, as the foals took turns in alphabetical order.
"Good luck." Viral gave a word of encouragement to her newest companion.
Ash made quick work of the cloud rings, having been much faster than the one that went before him. The son of the Wonderbolt Captain made the course look like a routine day and rejoined his class.
"Fantastic Ash, looks like we have a benchmark class. No pressure, just do your best and don't be afraid to ask for help." The teacher have words of encouragement.
It took some time, and after all of the class had gone on ahead of her it was Viral's turn to take a shot.
Inside her head, her mind connected to a rhythm. She knew what she was capable of, and as she got ready to start a beat kicked off in her head. She had no idea what it was, but it drove her motivation. She took off, equal to Ash's pace.
She made the rings look like a cloudless sky as she danced around flawlessly. She did it so fast, she didn't even realize she was coming into land until she about bounced off the cloud layer her class was standing on. She shrugged off the rough landing.
"Well and truly done, but I think your landing could use some work. In fact, that's one thing you always need to keep in mind class. Landing safely is vital when learning how to fly, it can help prevent injury. You are released, we will see you all next week." The lead teacher dismissed the class.
Viral went to leave just a little distraught but was held up as Ash pulled her aside.
"That was awesome Viral."
"Thanks, even though I flopped the landing."
"Your ok, that's what matters. I've got to get going but maybe after class next week we could hang out?"
"I'd love to, but I'll need to make sure its ok with mom first."
"Don't sweat it, I know how that feels. My mom still treats me like a child, some of my friends find it cute buts it's more embarrassing than anything."
They pair exchanged goodbyes and parted ways, Ash finding Spitfire rather easily. It took Viral a minute wait for Lightning to show up to grab the filly and bring her home.
Viral was confident she had made a life time friend.
In the playground of the flight school Viral and Ash raced joyfully on their own, the two mothers watching from a lone cloud not too far out of reach. Thought they had once left each other on unstable terms, the bond of their respective foals seemed to bring Lightning Dust and Spitfire a little ease around each other. Lightning wasn't exactly comfortable around the Wonderbolt Captain, likewise Spitfire wasn't comfortable either, but the pair were able to coexist in the moment.
Between them was pure silence, Spitfire being more concerned for her son and Lightning just happy that her daughter had a companion. It was only after Spitfire was satisfied that Ash was in good company that she struck up a conversation. There was something serious on her mind.
"So, I need to confirm this. You're her biological mother, right?" She questioned. Lightning turned her head to gawk at the captain's question.
"Of course, what do you think I wouldn't care for my own flesh and blood?" Lightning retorted.
"Don't take this the wrong way Dust, but you don't exactly have the best track record of caring about other ponies."
Lightning lowered her eyebrows, appalled by the accusation. But sighed, for she knew Spitfire had a point.
"I've been trying to get better about it, might as well start with my daughter. She's been through enough..."
"Sky couldn't shut up about it, I had to give him some leave so he could mentally recover. But, all this time we thought she was his daughter. Him and Vapor. It's why she stepped out, so she could take care of her."
The two foals darted by the adults, they were gone in a flash.
"I was still mentally recovering myself, not just from my parents but also....you understand."
"You do know who was in that balloon right? Twilight Sparkle, the elements of Harmony."
"I looked into it, I know how much worse it could have been. You can stop talking about it, it's not exactly a bright spot on my life."
Spitfire had to ponder for a second on what she was going to say next.
"Yeah, and Dash isn't exactly a forgiving pony. Can't even take a nickname, had to break her just to get her to fit in. Getting off topic, Lightning we have an issue."
"And what exactly would that be?" Lightning didn't even bother to stare at Spitfire as she responded.
"Dash has been wanting to visit Viral, take her under her wing. She still thinks she's Sky's daughter."
"I knew letting her go to that show was a mistake..."
"Hey! I can keep her occupied. I know you aren't exactly prepared for when the time comes so I'll keep this little bit of information between us, Sky, and Vapor, but you shouldn't hold stuff like that away."
Lightning sighed heavily, looking at her daughter who was now taking a moment to rest. Rainbow Dash of all ponies had taken a liking to her, but had no idea of her true identity.
"I'm okay with Dash seeing her now and again. I just don't want her seeing my face around her. Viral gets really excited whenever Sky talks about Dash but she has no idea of our history."
"I'm sure I can arrange some things around that to get it to work, Dash has to work around what I say anyway."
"That's generous of you."
Spitfire chuckled.
"I've been humbled by a few ponies that have their hearts in the right places Dust. Your getting somewhere, and your daughter is certainly a big part of that. I need to run, it isn't exactly good for my look if I'm late to lead the team. Ash! come, say goodbye to your friend."
Reluctantly, the foals bid farewell and returned to their parents. Before they went their separate ways, Spitfire asked Lightning one last thing.
"Would you be ok with having Sky drop her off at my place next week? If we can get Dash's eagerness out of the way it would make it easier."
"I'm sure Viral would love to have a chat with Rainbow Dash."
On cue, Viral's eyes lit up with glee.
"Okay, I'll see her in the morning then. Take care of yourselves."
"Trying my best ma'am."
Spitfire gave Lightning one last chuckle before she took Ash Wind back to their home. Likewise, Lightning took her daughter home as well. She made lunch for the pair and took a seat, it wasn't long before the filly consumed her meal, having worked up an extreme appetite playing with the colt. While Lightning began to fiddle around with her food, the crimson filly retreated to her room momentarily which now had a full size bed instead of a crib.
"I'm gonna take a nap mom." She explained on her way out of the room.
"Alright, sleep well sweetie."
Once Viral was out of sight, Lightning disposed of her leftovers and got comfortable for a workout routine. She was in the middle of getting started when she heard a knock on the door. She waited for a second, and after being certain the filly was not coming answered the door. It was Vapor Trail, whom which had brought a container of cookies.
Lightning welcomed her sister-in-law, Vapor setting the treats down and getting comfortable. Lightning was quick to get back into her routine, starting to do some core exercises as Vapor sat down. Vapor was noticeably awkward at first, but when Lightning gave her a curious glare she broke her silence.
"Oh, sorry. Uh, how's Viral?"
"Making friends, school has been off to a good start. She's sleeping right now."
"So she's okay at the moment?"
"Yeah, look Vapor I get that you feel like a second mother after all the time but I have everything under control now. I'm working my days around her and she's doing fine. Don't get me wrong, your family and I appreciate you stopping by but you don't have to worry for her."
Vapor lowered her head in shame.
"Sorry, I don't really have much to do without Sky around. I haven't gotten around to re-applying for the academy to have another go at it. In fact I haven't exactly been keeping in shape like before. I was the motherly figure while Sky was doing his dream."
Lightning pondered Vapor's words, and took a moment to figure out what she wanted to say. After a moment she stood up and went to her storage room, taking a spare workout mat and setting it beside the one she already had. Vapor, though initially confused, understood the kind gesture and obliged Lightning's invitation.
As Lightning got back into position, she dared to ask the question.
"So, your going to have another shot at it?" She asked Vapor, whom had gotten into a similar position to Dust' s
"Yeah, now that more of my time is freed up with you looking after your daughter I'd though I'd give it another go. Every pony there knows I'm a good flier when I'm in shape."
"I like to keep on shape at all times, even if I'll never have my time, looking good for the foal will make her more enthusiastic about staying in shape herself."
They worked for a solid 30 minutes, and while Vapor was visibly exhausted Lightning had barely broken a sweat during the routine. Vapor took a moment to compose herself before saying anything, taking deep breaths in between her words.
"Thanks....it means a lot....that your helping me....get back in shape."
"It's like I said, you don't need to worry about Viral but I do enjoy your company. It's better than being stuck in here alone. But, I do want to ask a favor. You won't believe who I ran into."
"Who, may I ask?"
"Spitfire, and before you say anything she knows now too. Only her, far as I know she hasn't told any pony else on the team. Anyway, could you take Viral over to her place next weekend? Preferably as early as possible." Lightning requested. Vapor stumbled over her words as she answered.
"Y-Yeah, no problem. I'll talk with Sky about it. Probably best he knows about it, and Spitfire knowing the truth."
"Perfect, anyway.... I think you could use a shower.
Vapor chuckled in embarrassment, and raced to the bathroom to clean herself off. Meanwhile, Lightning took a listen into her daughter's room. Inside, she could hear her daughter humming. This was a common occurence, she would excuse herself to her room and begin to him this specific tune. To a point where Lightning herself could recite it.
She gave the door a firm knock, and the humming suddenly stopped. Lightning waited a second, then as she opened the door there the filly lay in her bed.
"You know Viral, hiding secrets away from others makes it that much harder when they are revealed."
The filly groaned, rolling over to meet her mother's eyes. Her mother's soft expression was a relief, but Viral was still a little annoyed that her mother had been eavesdropping on her.
"What's wrong with humming to myself.in my room mom?"
"It's not the humming Viral, it's the fact that you told me you were going to sleep. You kept the truth from me. Since its nothing serious I'll let it go, but I just want you to tell me the truth when it's important. Now, I'm sure your excited to meet Dash. Keep in mind she's gonna see what your capable of. So, be on your best behavior while your there and show her what your capable of."
"Will do, thanks."
"Sleep well."
And sleep well she did, for in a few days she would attempting to catch the eyes of Rainbow Dash.
Sky Stinger landed on the front door of the Captain's home, dropping Viral off his back gently and knocking. In a few seconds Spitfire answered with her son not far behind and ushered the stallion and his niece in. Viral got comfortable with the colt while Captain and Recruit got to catching up.
"You're getting better every day Sky, you're on your way to becoming a top reserve flyer. Keep this form and you may find yourself a promotion. Don't get too ahead of yourself though, a lot of talented flyers come through my offices every day,"
"Right, just keep working..."
Their chat was cut by another knock on the door.
"That's her, I hope."
Spitfire once again opened her door, finding a cyan pegasus mare with a prismatic mane.
"Dash."
the rookie saluted. "Ma'am."
"At ease Dash, this is my house not a barracks. I'm your friend here not your superior. Come in."
Rainbow followed Spitfire into the room to rejoin with Sky.
"But didn't you say it was urgent?"
"I just wanted to make sure you got here before the filly got anxious."
On cue as always, the crimson pegasus scurried out into the room with the colt in tow. With beaming eyes, she jump into the cyan pegasus' chest and nested her muzzle into her idol. Dash was just dumbstruck as her companions began to chuckle, but always a crowd pleaser she wrapped a hoof around the filly and chuckled.
"Gee kid, your passion rivals a certain squirt I know. Good to see you again."
With that, Viral detached herself from the mare and started to compose herself.
"She's been wanting to learn some tricks from you ever since she saw the show." Sky explained.
"And likewise, you can't seem to keep your mind off of her when your training. So, we decided to get it out of the way. With how well she keeps up with my own I figured it would be perfect for her to learn from one of my best flyers at such a young age."
"Well I'd be honored. Hop on champ."
Rainbow had taken the crimson filly to a clear patch of clouds to get her started. She wasn't familiar with Viral's baseline, so after making sure they stretch to make sure the filly didn't hurt herself she got started with something simple. At Rainbow's word the filly took to a hover, and after staying in place for a few seconds without falling from the sky Rainbow let her touch down once again.
"You didn't hear this from me, but that's the farthest any filly I've taught has gotten."
"Really?!" Viral squeaked at the honor.
"Yeah, sure. Like I said don't make a fool of yourself gloating kid there's a long way to go." Rainbow then turned to the north side of the cloud they stood on and got in stance. "I'm not gonna let you out of my sight, but do your best to keep up. I want to see how your speed is. Once we get that down I can start narrowing down what you're capable of."
"Ok...you won't leave me behind?" Viral was hesitant to continue.
"Kid, loyalty is in my heart...literally. Look I'll make sure you're safe but if I don't push you I won't know what you can achieve."
With her worries subsided, the filly got into position next to the prismatic pegasus. After Rainbow adjusted Viral's stance for optimal takeoff, she took to the skies at a brisk pace whilst keeping an eye behind her for her apprentice. Much to her gleeful surprise, Viral did initially keep up with the speed Rainbow had. Though as Rainbow began to speed up the filly fell further behind her, until she could only barely see her over her shoulder.
Having covered enough ground, Rainbow halted and began to hover in place as she waited for Viral to catch up to her. Once she did, the filly showed signs of severe exhaustion. She started to grow tired, and as Rainbow began to ponder what to do next the filly slipped out of focus and began to lose altitude. Panic set in, but Rainbow was ever quick and snapped her up before too long.
"Right, I think we've done enough today kid. I like what you've got, but you need rest. You've overachieved for a filly your age."
"th...thanks." Viral managed to sputter through her deep breaths.
Rainbow hoisted the filly onto her own shoulders, making her way back to the residents of her Captain in record time. She let herself in, trotting into the main room where Spitfire stood waiting. Her Captain took one glance at the filly who was now only half awake on her shoulders.
"Woah Dash, I did tell you to be careful with her didn't I?"
"I was, though I may have gotten carried away..."
"she's a filly, she's not going to be like you right away."
"I know that." Dash replied haste fully. "I wanted to try to find what she could handle, I've never mentored a filly that could manage more than a brief period of hovering."
"Dash, you should know better about putting ponies at risk. May I remind you of what happened at the academy..."
"With all do respect ma'am, don't bring that up to me ever unless you have reason." Rainbow retorted, Spitfire having brought up her wing pony. The Captain respected that wish.
"Fair enough, but do be careful with her next time. You're responsible for her when she's around and likewise if something happens to her you're the one I'm going to look at punishing first."
"And if it's something that's not my fault?"
"Then you better have a good explanation, you're dismissed. If you wish to stay you are welcome to, but Viral is going to rest. Still, thank you for volunteering for this."
Viral didn't know how long she rested for, but she awoke it was because of a familiar voice accompanied by a gentle rubbing of her mane. As she came to, her eyes found Lightning Dust. Her mother had come to pick her up after the brief stay at Spitfire's, and it was time to get going. Once she found her balance, the pair went to the Captain to say goodbye.
"Hey, thanks for all this. It's been a big help that you're doing this for her."
"Don't mention it Dust, but don't think this is going to stay between us forever. As much as you may not like it Dash might find out some day and it won't be pretty. Have a good night you two, and here." She gave Lightning two tickets. "On me, next show is in a couple weeks time."
"I... Spit I can't..."
"I want to see you there Lightning, for the sake of her." She pointed to Viral. "You're Sky's family so that's what we're going with, but for you two to have a good mother and daughter bond you're going to have to experience things together."
"Thanks..." Lightning managed, seemingly taken aback by Spitfire's genuine care for the secret they kept.
"Trust me, I'm doing this for Dash too. She needs to get used to seeing you around Sky, as you both are family. Eventually, if we can get to a point where she is comfortable seeing you around Viral then we can let this all go. For now, I'll let you both go home and get some rest. Enjoy the next couple of weeks to yourselves."
For the first time in some years, Lightning was eager for something related to the Wonderbolts. She figured Spitfire knew what was best, and so when she returned home with her daughter she rested soundly knowing full well things were under control...for now.
