> Coruscating Colors > by Cloudline Dasher > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Coruscation > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Coruscating Colors Written By: Thunder-Dasher Edited By: Bytestorm A serene calm permeated the room. Silence like this usually set the mare’s feathers itching, longing to take to the air. She yearned to hear the whistle of the wind swish by her ears. Her attempts at reading the latest entry in the only books worth reading, Daring Do, had devolved to mostly her just turning the pages with her hoof absently. Her main focus had always been on an intelligible and rather elegant lavender unicorn, the latter mostly unbeknownst to anypony other than herself. A low sigh emanated from the mare; the lavender beauty had captured, and kept, her eye. Rainbow Dash, the fastest pegasus in Equestria, bearer of the Element of Loyalty, the sole performer of the legendary Sonic Rainboom, had a crush on somepony. It was maddening. Even worse for her, was the object of her affection; one of the most powerful unicorns alive, bearer of the Element of Magic, personal student of Princess Celestia, and most importantly to her, her best friend, Twilight Sparkle. She noticed the unicorn approaching her through her peripheral vision, and her cheeks immediately flourished with a scarlet. Rainbow's heart started puttering, holding her breath as her mind raced a mile a minute, 'She saw me! Oh my gosh... what do I say?!' Sweat coated Rainbow's brow, her face beginning to redden from the on rush of blood from her heart. For the first time in almost an hour, Rainbow looked directly at Twilight, only to see her walk right past her towards the shelf full of books, levitating a rather large red dictionary in front of her. Rainbow let out a breath, trying her best to release it as quietly as possible, in fear of Twilight asking her what is wrong, and then making a fool of herself. Crashing after a daring stunt was one thing, but falling for one of your best friends was another, 'W-what if she laughed... I don't think I could take that... not from her...' Rainbow let out a sigh, which unfortunately was overheard. “Rainbow, what's wrong? You’re sighing.” Looking up at the elegant lavender unicorn, Rainbow locked her eyes with Twilight's for the first time since pulling the new Daring Do book off the shelf, “I... y-yeah... just peachy!” “I don't know, Rainbow... I'm no Fluttershy, but you look red and flushed. You never get flushed, except for that one time you were ill...” Twilight's face took on an air of sincere concern, as she abandoned the dictionary on her work desk and returned to sit in front of the pegasus. For some odd reason, Rainbow's eyes shot to the floor as soon as Twilight reached her. She had to bite her own tongue as the unicorn lifted up her exotically colored mane with her hoof, before firmly pressing those... moist... succulent... lips... Rainbow winced as those lips connected with her forehead, the rosy hue intensifying on her features. Her wings rose slightly from her sides, and her tail twitched slightly behind her at the contact. Rainbow's ears flickered as Twilight pulled back to speak, removing her hoof, “Rainbow... you're not hot, but you are awful clammy... Maybe you should just take the book home and take a nice shower... I know Pegasi have a particular resistance to the weather and cold, but that doesn't make you impervious to them... It just might do you some good!” Rainbow licked her own lips from the inside of her mouth, wishing desperately that the radiant lavender unicorn had placed that kiss on her lips instead. Rainbow scooped up her book, placing it into a saddlebag that she brought with her and slung it over her back, being careful with her wings, “Y-yeah... I think that is what I'll do...” Rainbow stated through the clear pout on her mouth that she, for the life of her, couldn't help. A loud siren could be heard going off throughout Ponyville, which couldn't be none other than Cloudsdale’s relay warning system, used to relay warnings to towns when rogue storm clouds have escaped. This particular siren was a clear warning that a type 'A' storm, one possessing of sustained winds in excess of 5 pony-force, and extensively charged, had escaped Cloudsdale. Rainbow panicked as she shed off her saddlebag, “A bad storm may be coming. I better go!” “R-rainbow, maybe you shouldn't... I think you may be sick and should stay here with me... I don't mind, I can make you some hot chocolate and some cookies. I'll have you better in no time!” Twilight said with a faint nervous smile, hoping and pleading that her begging puppy eye lessons from Rarity would draw Rainbow into staying. The vibrant Dash looked to the door and back to Twilight, her mind racing, 'Oh gosh... those eyes... She's too adorable to resist, but I should go, shouldn't I?' When Dash started to look like she was focusing more on the door, Twilight panicked as she spoke up once again, “Come on Dash, please? I'll even share my stash of Applejack's cider I've been saving...” Rainbow whimpered as she bit her lower lip, pleadingly looking to the lavender mare, 'Aw heck... I suppose the emergency weather team can handle it...' Dash let out a sigh in defeat as she spoke up, “Okay Twi, you win... I'll stay...” “Thank goodness! Okay wait here and I'll get the hot chocolate going and we can sit by the fire!” Twilight giggled as she trotted off into the kitchen. The cyan pegasus bit her lower lip as she watched that lovely lavender flank sway to and fro, but once Twilight disappeared into the kitchen, Dash let out a sigh, 'D-dash... you pervert... she thinks you're sick all because you can't come out about your feelings for the mare...' A sing song happy voice chimed from the kitchen, making Dash's ears flicker to attention, “Rainbow, do you like marshmallows in your hot chocolate?” “Please!” Dash smiled as she stepped to the large fire place, sitting down, but as soon as she got comfy, Twilight reentered, “Dash! You shouldn't be on that cold floor! Here!” Rainbow yelped as she was encased in Twilight's lavender aura, lifting her several feet in the air. A large purple body pillow being laid and fluffed underneath her, before she was gently laid back down. Rainbow would have normally snapped at the purple mare, but when she was released, all she managed to do was lower her nose and her cheeks filled with a pink hue. Dash jumped as a hoof shot under her colorful bangs and lips being forcefully pressed against her forehead, followed by Twilight saying, “Nope, still not warm, but your face is still all red... Maybe you need some medicine?” “N-no, that's okay, I'm feeling a lot better...” Dash sighed as she averted her gaze away from her heart’s desire as far as she could comfortably manage, her mind raced along with her heart, 'Dash, just tell her you're not sick... Please let her know how you feel!' Dash closed her eyes to prevent herself from sighing, 'N-nah... it is probably just a crush, but... I'm probably lying to myself. I've had crushes before, and this definitely doesn't feel like one, feels like... something more.' Dash couldn't manage to prevent her next sigh and it immediately got Twilight's attention, “D-dash, what exactly are you feeling? Sore throat? Stuffy nose?” Twilight looked to Dash, gently laying a mug of hot chocolate in front of Dash, dropping three small marshmallows into the steamy liquid. Looking up to Twilight, Rainbow could tell she was losing the battle. Her feelings quivering just past her lips, but unable to do so, 'I'm Rainbow Dash! How could I be afraid of telling her how I feel!?' Dash let out a defeated groan as she said, “Twilight, I need to tell you someth--” Rainbow was quickly cut off by another siren. This one was almost never used, but declared that the emergency weather team ended up failing. This one only goes off in the town that the storm is going to hit. It definitely had to be a bad storm for the emergency teams to fail. Rainbow couldn't help the torn sensation between disappointment that she was so close to admitting her feelings, and relief by the easy escape from the situation. Rainbow's features hardened as her Loyalty to the town of Ponyville ultimately made her decision for her as she jumped to her hooves, “Twi, I'm sorry, I may need to take a rain check on that apple cider...” Rainbow pouted as she continued, “This severe of a storm means we will have to cancel half the scheduled rain next week... I can't let that happen! Everyponies’ crops will die!” The pegasus slammed through the door, and frantically took to the sky, knowing if she allowed Twilight to speak, she would most likely succeed in stopping her. “Rainbow, NO..! Wait!” Twilight held out a hoof to the cyan mare, but she was already disappearing into the distance. Twilight let out a sigh of her own as she notice with Rainbows outburst, she had left her saddlebag and Daring Do book, “She'll be okay... wont she?” Using her magic, Twilight encased the front door with a lavender aura that was a shade lighter than her coat and gently closing the wooden door with a click. Twilight returned to her studies, but something just didn't feel right. She looked to the window to where the trail of rainbow following Dash's path had been not moments earlier, “I-I may not have a Pinkie sense.., but I can't help the feeling that... I should have been more adamant on her staying...” A sigh escaped the lavender mare as she turned to her little purple assistant, “Spike!” In an instant, Spike was by Twilight's side and saluting her, “What can your number one assistant do for you, today?!” “Bring me my coat... and while I am gone... Please seal all the windows... just in case Rainbow fails at preventing the storm...” Twilight knew that even though Rainbow never let anything happen to Ponyville, accidents would happen from time to time. Ironically, most were Rainbow's fault in the first place, as she often enough would get overly excited and give the rain clouds a little more oomph, but she always went out of her way to correct any problems that arose. However, this particular time seemed off... “B-but Twilight... She has never failed before! She is the awesomest pony in Equestria, remember?” Spike lowered his salute, running to grab Twilight's coat and returned to help Twilight into it. She ignored the blatant usage of a non-existent word, he did that sometimes to get under her skin, “I know that Spike.., but I have an awful pit in my stomach. Since coming to Ponyville, the weather has mainly been minor mishaps; and whenever they were really big, it was usually her fault, so she knew the exact mistake and could take care of it... This time it was a problem at Cloudsdale... and most likely, knowing her, she is going to try and fix it on her own!” “But if the problem was with Cloudsdale, shouldn't they like... call in more pegasi to help?” Spike asked as Twilight pulled her second forehoof into the dark green coat. The dark green coat was perfect for Twilight, at least that was what Rarity told her; and she rarely was wrong. It contained so many pockets that Twilight could carry parchment and quills everywhere she went without carrying them in a bulky saddlebag. Twilight walked toward the door, giving Spike an answer before she left, “Yes, that is true, but they failed to contain it; and if it has managed to get this far, it means they are pulling back to Cloudsdale to wait for the Wonderbolts to gather help. The storm will be here before they have time to do so. Knowing Rainbow, she is going to try and stop this storm at all costs and possibly all by herself...” The front door opened with Twilight's magic and she winced when a gush of cold wetness slapped her in the face. The storm was already nearly here, tiny clouds were already here and pouring down, but the monster storm clouds could be seen off in the distance and rolling straight for Ponyville. “Twilight... I don't mean to burst your bubble.., but you are just a unicorn... what can you do?” Spike frowned, now even he was worried about the colorful mare. Turning to look at Spike, she returned with a serious look, “I have a couple of weather spells and I have something else up my sleeve, figuratively speaking of course.” Spike's right eyebrow rose in a confused, but somewhat questioning glare, “And that would be?” “All of my friends on my side!” Spike sighed despondently; he couldn’t hope to talk her out of it now. As he turned away, “Well... good luck I guess... just, please Twilight… come home safe.” “It's okay Spike, when have we ever failed when all of us got together?” grinned Twilight, giving Spike a soft reassuring glance that only a mother could pull off. Spike nodded, rolling his eyes before turning for the utility closet and pulled out hammer, nails and planks of wood so he could board up the windows if necessary. Giving the little purple dragon one last thought filled look, she took off into the rain and toward the closest friend, Pinkie Pie. Spike gazed worriedly at the mare as she ran into the distance, “I have a bad feeling about this. Please be safe Twilight. Please…” _________________________________________________ The cyan pegasus froze, her features decidedly fearful, as she watched the biggest storm cloud she'd ever seen, roll her way. She must have hovered there for five minutes watching in awe at the challenge before her. A challenge, that’s what this was. It wasn’t something to fear; it was something to overcome. To show all of Equestria who the best pegasus is. A grin formed on her mouth as her wings pumped in enthusiasm, making her gain another several feet of altitude, “This is gonna be so AWESOME! I can't wait to see the look on Twilight's face when she hears I single-hoofedly took this entire storm down!” Pausing once more, Rainbow recoiled at what she said, 'W-why did I think of Twilight first... usually, I go brag to Applejack when I pull off a stunt like this. The Wonderbolts too would probably be coming out to fix this! Why didn’t I think of impressing them... That darn crush again...' Rainbow blinked back to reality as water splashed over her face. Even in this altitude, the wind was erratically blowing the wet liquid all over the atmosphere. If Rainbow looked close enough, some of it looked as if it was defying gravity and rising up to the sky. Rainbow let out a puff of air as she cricked her neck and flexed her wings, cracking them as she stretched, “Time to do this!” Without any more hesitation, Rainbow darted toward the menacing black storm cloud. The thunder itself sounded like a rumbling laugh as it attempted to shoot lightning her way. Being an experienced weather Pegasi, Rainbow easily maneuvered through the strikes. Lightning never took a direct path; it needs an ionized path in the sky first to get to her. So, using their sensitive wings to feel for those paths, a pegasus could easily predict where the lightning will travel, and evade the terrifyingly deadly bolts. ‘Heh…Terrifying for a lesser flier maybe' Rainbow flew up to the tip top and began her decent. Thinking she could diminish the most by cutting right through the dark menace. Taking some distance, she quickly darted into the near city-long storm cloud; cutting through to the other side, Rainbow frowned in almost a pout, “Darn it! It didn't even do anything!” Falling silent for a matter of seconds, Rainbow tapped her chin, “Hmmm... Maybe a twister? I could pretty much fuse the positive and negative charges of the cloud... it wouldn't get rid of it, but maybe it will at least stop it from being a full on thunder cloud...” Rainbow shrugged her shoulders as she sighed, “Heck, worth a try!” Since she was already on the rim of the storm, she quickly took to a clockwise rotation around the storm. Slowly but surely noticing a difference in its movement, Rainbow grinned as she thought to herself, 'Woohooo! It's working!' A crack of lightning broke through the air, making Rainbow shudder and halt her movement as the loud bang of thunder threatened to leave her deaf. The sound was enough to stun her long enough for another path to cross right through her, 'Oh my gosh! I'm dead!' Rainbow clenched her eyes in preparation of her end, but when it never came, she slowly opened her eyes to notice the lightning striking a purple shield that bubbled around her body. Rainbow swallowed as she darted around, 'I know that magic! Twilight?!' For a moment, Rainbow thought she was just going crazy, but sure enough, up through the clouds came five ponies in a weather balloon. The balloon itself was sheathed in a strong lavender glow. Rainbow took a literal double take before they drifted towards her, “W-what are you five doing here?” A pink mass jumped to the front of the balloon, a smile as wide as the earth mare’s face, “Twilight came and said you were fighting a menacing monster, so we came to help! So, we loaded up in her balloon and I brought my Party cannon!” Pinkie stepped back to pat the large cannon. “Pinkie... I don't think confetti is going too--” Rainbow was cut off as Twilight picked up the conversation. “Don't worry Rainbow! I poured as much magical energy as I could spare into the cannon, it will be our last ditch effort if we cannot break up the storm.” Rainbow's face filled with warmth at the accomplished look that was on Twilight's features. “Okay Dash! Let's get ta work! Yer the weather pony, so lead us~!” Applejack said with a wry grin, as she steadied her hat upon her head. Rainbow felt like shedding a tear; almost that is, 'I can't believe... well I can, but they actually came... I didn't even ask them... I bet... it was Twilight...' “Yoohoo! Dashie! Equestria calling in!” Giggled Pinkie as she waved a hoof. Snapping back to reality, Rainbow gave a serious nod, “Okay! Listen up soldiers!” Pinkie gave a salute for some odd reason, the others and she patiently waiting for Dash's plan. Rainbow was loving this, she was the center of attention at the moment and she loved every second of it, “Okay, I haven't worked out the entire plan yet, but I am going to make somewhat of a twister around the storm, The upper halves of the cloud are positive and the bottom are negatively charged and as the cloud rolls toward its destination it creates lightning without the need of Pegasi, but if I make the twister, it'll stir up the negative and positive, canceling one another out instead of clashing together into lightning!” Twilight's ears perked up as a smile formed on her face, “It's like suffocating a fire by removing the air supply, but instead you are removing the electrical charges by allowing them to cancel one another out! You're brilliant Rainbow!” Taking a few wing flaps back, a blush crossed Rainbow's face. A feminine chuckle emanated from Applejack as she teased, “So, Ah guess it was a good thing you had yer head in the clouds!” Suddenly, another crackle of lightning came forth toward the balloon, but Twilight quickly protected the entire group with another bubble. Twilight chuckled nervously as she spoke up in a shaky voice, “L-lets talk later... We need to break up this cloud!” With a nod and another flap of her wings, Rainbow darted toward the clouds, pausing to turn around for a moment, “Fluttershy!” A butter colored mare popped her head from the basket as she weakly asked, “Y-yes... Rainbow..?” “I need you to fly around the balloon and use those wings of yours to keep the balloon out of the path of lightning. Chances are that this twister is going to stir up a lot of lightning before it finally dies!” Without waiting for a reply, Rainbow took off in her clockwise circle around the storm. With each pass around the cloud, she would get a glimpse of Fluttershy hovering around the balloon. She was proud of her at the moment. Fluttershy usually was too scared to do just about anything in the sky, but when it came to her friend’s safety, she didn't hesitate. Rainbow turned her focus on her breathing, making sure that her body was getting enough air from this altitude and speed. Though, trained Pegasi like herself could hold their breath for ten minutes; that was only if she wasn't exerting herself at the moment. If needed, she could hold her breath for three, maybe four minutes? Anyway, she stayed focused on breathing. Every once and awhile she would see a purple bubble encase her and a strike of lightning prevented from hitting her. She would really need to thank Twilight later for all of her help. Yeah, all of her friends came, but it was Twilight that gathered them together.., 'Twilight...' Rainbow's breathing faltered as she let out a sigh, much larger than she should have, but quickly recuperated. Her mind was now focused mainly on Twilight, 'I should repay her for this.., I really should... Maybe a date?!' Rainbow's eyes went wide as she just barely dodged another lightning bolt. ‘Darnit Rainbow! Focus!’ Dash noticed she was on the far end of the storm cloud opposite of her friends. She would need to be extra careful on that side. After about her fifteenth trip around the cloud, she could hear her friends yelling at her with every pass. She slowed her speed as she dizzily returned to the hot air balloon, landing on the rim of the basket for support. Only silence came as Rainbow felt a hoof on hers. Even though she was seeing double, Rainbow could see concern on Twilight's face as she spoke, “Rainbow... you don't look so well... you feeling alright?” Rainbow gave a chuckle and a nod, as she retorted, “Who me!? I'm fine, just a little dizzy; fifteen trips around a storm of that size will do it to ya!” “Darlings!? I don't mean to interrupt; though there may not be lightning anymore, we still have a massive raincloud moving toward Ponyville!” Rarity stated in a worried tone that still contained her regalia. “Next plan!” Rainbow smiled, slowly regaining her normal vision, “Fluttershy can help with this part! Before the cloud gets to Ponyville, we will push on one side to alter its direction.” “R-rainbow...” Fluttershy squeaked as she rubbed her forehooves together, as she returned to the basket of the balloon, “It would take... all of Ponyville to move that cloud...” “Hmm...” Rainbow hummed, tapping her chin in thought, 'Fluttershy is right... We can't move that on our own... maybe...' Rainbow turned to look at the cloud once more, a smirk on her face at her awesome idea. “Rainbow... I don't like that look...” Turning to face the balloon once more, Rainbow noticed it was Twilight that said it. Rainbow just beamed as she chuckled, “I bet a Sonic Rainboom would clear that thing right up!” Twilight shook her head, “No, Rainbow... Cutting through that massive of a cloud with a Sonic Rainboom would be like diving into a pool of broken glass... even if it's basically air and water, moving at that speed would make the water slice your body up!” “Hehe... Yeah... probably wouldn't be the smartest idea...” A pink hue marked Rainbows expression as she rubbed the back of her neck. “Party cannon!?” Pinkie spazzed all of a sudden as her mane poofed out more than usual, throwing her body over the cannon with the pull string in her mouth. Worried looks were shared amongst all six of the mares, before Twilight spoke up, “All in favor of the party cannon, raise your hoof!” Four mares consisting of Pinkie, Rarity, Twilight and Fluttershy weakly raised their hooves. Twilight sighed as she spoke up again, “Okay... Pinkie, fire when ready...” “WAIT!” Rainbow waved her forehooves in an exasperated fashion, “What exactly will the cannon do?” “Well Dash... I infused the cannon with a containment spell. It won’t exactly explode like a normal cannon; it will act as a magical portal and vacuum, sucking up the clouds so we can return it to Cloudsdale.” Twilight explained, using her forehooves to rub at her temples. Confusion struck Rainbow's face as she replied in almost a yell, “Then, why didn't we use it from the start?” “It hasn't been tested... In theory it should work, but I haven't had the time to test it... It could just make things worse!” Twilight looked Rainbow in the eyes, concern on her features. “So... what is the worst case scenario, Twi?” Rainbow crossed her forehooves as she landed to sit in the basket along with her friends. “It breaks free and returns to an even worse storm and possibly rains for a week...” Twilight blurted out in a quick fashion, “I would say just let the cloud reach Ponyville, but Rainbow... you were right... too many ponies will lose their crops if it happens. The crops would first be drowned in water and then would quickly dry up from the lack of rain that would need to follow...” “So basically, it’s all or nothing?” Rainbow's features all of a sudden shared Twilight's sullen expression. “Pretty much...” another sigh left Twilight as she turned to Pinkie Pie, “But you are the weather pony, Dash. I will leave the decision into your capable hooves.” Silence befell the balloon as all looked to Dash. Dash turned her back to look at the dark rainy cloud and then over to the other side of the balloon to Ponyville, “Okay... Sonic Rainboom it is!” “W-what?! But Dashie! That big bad storm cloud will tear you to shreds!” Pinkie’s face had shown true fear, which made even Rainbow cringe. When the element of laughter is scared, you would be a dang fool not to also be scared, even if you were the awesomest pony in Equestria! “Psshaaa! That cloud will be gone, in ten seconds flat! I've practiced the Sonic Rainboom, and have gone through clouds before, I’ll be fine guys; besides, I'll never leave Ponyville hangin'!” Rainbow made a pose on her hind hooves, a smug grin on her face. “At least let me cast a spell to skin, wings, and eyes...” Twilight frowned, looking up into Dash's irises. “Let’er rip, Twi!” Rainbow returned to all fours, watching at Twilight's horn glowed a faint purple. Rainbow's body flinched slightly at the tingling sensation. Twilight let out a sigh as she said, “I really wish you wouldn't do this, but at least the spell may give you some resistance. “Don't worry Twi!” Rainbow beamed as she jumped up to the side of the basket, “Okay, I'm off!” “Okay RD! Now don’t go getting’ yerself hurt! I still need to beat ya in our next race fairly, ya know!” Applejack gave a nervous chuckle, she tried to be sarcastic, but it only managed to show her fear that Rainbow wasn't going to walk back from this. The orange mare only managed to set Rainbow's challenge instincts into overdrive, “Just watch! I will clear that storm and then you’ll all see!” Without another word, Rainbow took to the air, making the balloon tilt and drift several yards in the opposite direction. “Rainbow... WAIT!” Twilight yelled desperately, regret taking over for letting her cyan friend leave, keeping her hoof outstretched toward Rainbow's direction like she was magically going to stop her, 'W-wait... magic, that's it!' Twilight closed her eyes and her horn slowly encased her horn, but it was no use. At Rainbow's increasing distance from the balloon and her drastic speeds. Even Twilight couldn't keep up with the cyan mare, Twilight's heart sped up, beating against her chest as she pleaded, “Rainbow... NO! I change my mind, please don't go!” A delicate white hoof found its way onto the frantic Twilight, followed by a voice that matched the delicacy of the hoof, “We can trust Rainbow, darling. She may be a blind to danger when it comes to getting into the Wonderbolts, but she isn't so much so that she is just reckless. She has studied hard to be the best. If she believes she can do this, then she can!” Turning from looking Rarity in the eye, Twilight looked over to where Rainbow flew straight up into the air, preparing for the Sonic Rainboom. Lately, it barely took Dash a minute to take off into a Sonic Rainboom, but she was giving her every possible advantage to clear these clouds. Once satisfied with her altitude, Rainbow gave her wings another flap and darted for the ground. Folding her wings to her body after gaining a fair amount of speed, she instantly felt the Sonic Rainboom forming around her body. Meanwhile, her five friends were in the basket, but Twilight had her teeth digging into the rim of the basket, filling her mouth with a flavor of honey and wood. Though, at the moment she couldn't care if it tasted like mud, her attention was on the rainbow mare that plummeted to the clouds. The expected reaction happened once Rainbow's body broke the sound barrier and disappeared into the clouds. The expulsion of rainbow sent the balloon even further back and everypony fought to keep their balance. Rainbow smiled as she held her breath, 'this isn't so bad... Yeah it stings a little, but there isn't any major pain...' As she made her way into the cloud, she had to close her eyes and keep her mouth clenched tight. Her wings aiding every several yards with a flap and every once and awhile a stray feather would fall from her cyan wings. From the outside, the clouds could clearly be seen dispersing; it no longer looked like it could swallow up all of Manehatten and Trottingham if it wanted. Though, it was still fairly large enough to engulf Ponyville. Slowly making her descent to what she hoped was the final bits of cloud, Rainbow was slowly losing her ability to hold her breath, 'A-almost there... Almost... I have to keep up... My body may be able to take it... but this water will shred my lungs... G-gotta... keep...' But no, rainbow's body betrayed her as she took a deep inhale and instantly her body seared in pain. She broke free of the storm cloud to realize she had only a few yards left and she would have finished. The damage to her lungs were done, and she coughed up a small amount of blood as she used what was left of her strength to break out of the Sonic Rainboom. “L-Look! Dashie is falling!” Pinkie yelled, surprisingly, tears fell from Pinkie's eyes as she extended her hoof to point. “OH MY GOODNESS!” Fluttershy panicked, taking off in a speed that would even make Rainbow Dash proud. “Fluttershy! Please help her!” Twilight yelled out, her face moistening in tears, 'I knew it... I knew it knew it knew it... I shouldn't of let her leave... It's all my fault!' Thankfully, Fluttershy had just enough strength to reach her friend and catch her. Though, now that she had her, she didn't have the strength to carry her and they were slowly but surely making a descent to the Everfree forest below. Twilight instantly took notice and her horn encased the balloon, making it take off toward the two Pegasi. Fluttershy tried to aim herself at the approaching balloon and succeeded in setting Rainbow gently down in the basket. The five worried ponies huddled around Dash, but only one voice could be heard to the weak cyan mare; Twilight's, “D-Dash! P-please hang on! We will get you some help! Please... stay aw--” Rainbow didn't get to hear anymore as her eyes fluttered closed and her head rested against the floor of the basket. A few more coughs of blood leaked from her mouth. __________________________________________________________________________________ The very next day: “Ugh...” Rainbow grunted as she rubbed her head. In the past, she often woke up with injuries, but never to this extent that she couldn't just instantly wake up and trot it off. Though, at the moment, she could barely inhale, let alone move. So she just settled with opening her eyes, which was a big mistake. She was instantly hit with a ray of sunshine, making her cringe and trying to turn her head. When she did, she noticed a pony draped over the side of the bed, resting an oh-so-familiar mane at her side. The lavender unicorn's hoof tightly clasped Rainbow's own, she was about to attempt to say something, but she noticed Twilight wasn't asleep, she was silently sobbing, “R-rainbow... P-please wake up... it's all my fault. I shouldn’t have let you leave... I don't c-care... about Ponyville's crops... they can grow more... N-not even with my m-magic... I can't make another you...” The cyan mare could tell that Twilight had been there for a while, from how soaked her foreleg was. She tried to move, but her body barely reacted, so she done the only thing that didn't come to utter difficulty, talking, “T-twilight...” Rainbow blinked when she heard her own voice, it was raspy and she could barely speak above a whisper. Twilight lifted her head, to reveal a shocked Unicorn, her face reddened and soaked from sobbing for possibly hours on end, “R-rainbow... You're awake?” Dash could tell she was regaining her energy, the more her mind woke, the more control she regained in her body. Truthfully, if it wasn't for her tired state, Rainbow thought she would be perfectly fine, except for her voice and the way her lungs ached; like she was at one of her Wonderbolts shows, screaming to try get Spitfire's autograph or cheering them on the entire show. However, Rainbow could tell this wouldn't heal for a long time, at least. Rainbow pulled her hoof from Twilight's grasp to place it gently on the lavender mares head, “P-please... don't cry...” Pulling her head away, Twilight quickly reclaimed her grasp on Rainbow's hoof, “Rainbow! I am so sorry I let you go... I should have made you stay at the library, you wouldn't have been hurt then!” Even though it kind of hurt to speak at the moment, Rainbow just had to say something, “You are... s-such an e-egg head!” Rainbow coughed when it finally became unbearable to speak, which made the worry on Twilight's face worsen. “Rainbow... You stubborn hot head...” Twilight whispered. As she lowered her head as another tear fell from each of her eyes. Dash chuckled at the purple mare’s statement, even though it hurt, making Twilight smile in return. “Twilight... I...” Rainbow winced at each word, but was quickly silenced by Twilight, “Stop talking! Your lungs won’t heal if you don't let them!” Ignoring the lavender mare’s statement, Rainbow grinned as she spoke up, “I... need... to tell... you... T-Twil--” Rainbow almost managed to finish half her sentence before she was sent into a coughing fit, which ultimately sent the heart monitor at the side of her bed to spazz. Within several moments, nurse Redheart ran into the room and to Rainbow's side. Rainbow held up a hoof to show she was okay. “Let me get you some water!” Redheart said with her own concern as she took a plastic cup that was placed by the sink that just about any hospital room contained and quickly filled it with cold water. Returning to the bed, Rainbow greedily snatched the plastic cup between her forehooves, almost crushing it as she downed the liquid. She would flinch if it hadn't tasted so awesome at the moment. Rainbow gasped as her hooves fell to her sides, the cup falling carelessly to the bed. Redheart grinned as the heart monitor returned to normal, her soft words aimed at Dash, “Miss Rainbow Dash, please try and take it easy, your lungs couldn't be fully healed by magic. You are just lucky there was a pegasi expert on staff!” Shooting Redheart a confused glare, Rainbow raised an accusing eyebrow, “Pegasi... expert?” Redheart only nodded as she smiled, “Yes, there has been a new mandate for the past year that each town that has a weather team also have a unicorn doctor that specializes in Pegasi related regenerative spells. It’s actually not that uncommon that a Pegasi comes in with damaged lungs from not controlling their breathing.” Making an 'O' shape with her mouth, Rainbow nodded before glancing over to Twilight. The lavender unicorn was calming down from her emotional state, but she still seemed off, 'w-why is Twilight... looking at me like... like that?' “So, was that why Rainbow's lungs were damaged? She breathed in while in that cloud?” Twilight asked, surprising Rainbow that Twilight actually didn't already know something. “Yes, but usually many come in from air deficiency, or crashing into a lake and breathing in water... Dash was a rather... unusual case...” Looking over, Rainbow wanted to ask a question, but Twilight asked for her, “What do you mean?” Redheart looked to Dash, sympathy on her face, “The doctor really should be the one to tell you this... Let me just go get him...” “No... tell me...” Rainbow insisted, her lungs hurt, but that didn't stop her wanting to know exactly what was freaking wrong! The nurse seemed hesitant, but sighed in defeat, closing her eyes for a moment as if collecting herself, “I'm afraid, even though your lungs will fully heal... You may never fully regain your voice... I'm sorry Rainbow Dash...” It took a moment for it to really sink in, but before any real questions came to mind, Twilight asked one for her, “Will she be able to fly okay? Since there isn't any permanent damage in her wings?” A soft grin formed on Redheart's face as she replied, “Thankfully, the only thing that will be affected is her voice. She should be able to do anything she could before. Though, she may be grounded for a while... I'm just surprised she awoke so soon after her reckless incident.” After Redheart was finished, she turned to leave, “Anything else before I leave?” “W-when can... I leave?” Rainbow Dash asked, hoping it be sooner, rather than later. “I will go ask the doctor, but even if you do go home, I doubt you will be able to fly higher than a few dozen feet without fainting.” Redheart didn't wait for anything else as she left the room, turning only briefly to say, “Be right back.” Both Rainbow and Twilight gave a faint sigh in relief and looked to one another. Twilight averted her gaze as she said in almost a whisper, “I-I suppose... you need a place to stay?” “I will figure... something out.” Rainbow nervously smiled. Of course if it wasn't for her lungs, she could just sleep in her cloud home, a tree or something till she recovered, but like this, it was possible she would catch some sort of exotic lung cold or something from sleeping outside. “You can stay with me!” Twilight's features lightened as she blurted it out, but she quickly lowered her face, her eyes being hidden behind her mane, “I did almost get you killed after all...” “Twilight... I need to tell...” Rainbow coughed once more, her face flourishing in anger, 'I have the courage to just spill my feelings to her... and I can't freaking talk!' Deciding to just cut to the chase, Rainbow inhaled as she slowly let it out as she spoke, “I... Love you... Twilight...” And with that, Rainbow clenched her eyes closed in fear of Twilight's answer. A hoof could be felt on her chin, which made her eyes shoot open to look straight into Twilight's purple irises. Twilight's head moved forward slowly and Rainbow's heart puttered as her mind race, 'oh my gosh... oh my gosh... here it comes...' Knock! Knock! Knock! Without waiting for an answer, the doctor came in, making Twilight and Rainbow pull apart. Rainbow licked her lips in disappointment, 'dang... so close...' “Hello, I'm Doctor Stable. Nurse Redheart tells me you want to know when you can leave?” Doctor Stable stated with a smile. Rainbow replied with a nod, deciding that it didn't require an audible reply. Which seemed to be enough as Doctor Stable stepped closer, “Well now! You seem to be breathing fine on your own, but I request you stay overnight, just in case the spell I cast didn't quite heal your lungs. “C-can Twilight stay?” Rainbow asked, managing to fight off a cough, looking over to the lavender mare to see her cheeks stricken with a red hue as she averted her gaze down to the floor. “I don't see why not? Because of your condition I prescribed you stay in the room alone, but it still has two beds. I will fetch Miss Sparkle some sheets and she can just sleep in the spare bed!” Doctor Stable had the biggest smile as he turned to leave. Matter of moments passed before Doctor Stable returned with the blankets, “Okay, I will check on you in the morning. As long as no major problems arise, you should be ready to go in the morning. Any questions before I leave?” Both Rainbow and Twilight shook their heads and Doctor Stable finally took his leave. Suddenly, Rainbow felt the room slightly spinning and she brought up a hoof to her forehead in hopes of steadying herself. “R-rainbow! Are you okay?” panicked Twilight, gripping Rainbow's hoof tightly. “Y-yeah... just a little tired...” Rainbow chuckled as she slid down the bed a tiny bit to lay her head on her pillow. “Then you can sleep, I will be here when you wake up.” Twilight gave her a soft reassuring smile as she patted Rainbow's hoof. “P-promise?” asked Rainbow, knowing Twilight wouldn't leave, but her heart refused to allow her not to get the promise for insurance purposes. “Pinkie Promise...” With a faint smile, Twilight moved up to kiss Rainbow on the cheek before pulling back. ______________________________________________ Later that night: Rainbow couldn't help but swallow repeatedly, her throat desperately begging for any fluids for relief. She opened her eyes a crack, careful to avoid the blinding sun that made her wince the first time; it was thankfully nowhere to be seen. The stars could be seen out the window; turning her head to the other side, Rainbow noticed that the light on the night stand was on. Deciding to risk sitting up, Rainbow used her hooves to force herself into a sitting position. Even needing to use her wings to aid her tired muscles, 'My body must be in shock from my lungs being so damaged...' Looking over to the other bed, Rainbow saw her heart’s desire. Twilight sat with her focus on the book that levitated in front of her. Rainbow could tell she had been asleep for a while, because she hadn't noticed Twilight bring a book with her, so she must have borrowed it from the hospital and the lavender mare was already half way through said book. The book lowered itself as the elegant mare glanced over, her features lightening when she noticed Rainbow sitting up, “Dash! How are you feeling?” “P-pretty thir... thirsty...” Rainbow winced at her voice, it was even worse than the first time. Twilight jumped out of the bed, immediately letting the book drop to the floor. The unicorn didn't even flinch when the book fell to the floor. Rainbow couldn't believe her eyes, Twilight of all ponies disgracing a book in that manner, but all Twilight was focused on, was getting that drink of water for Rainbow. Before realizing it, Twilight was at Rainbow's left side, a cup levitating in a purple aura. Rainbow lifted up her hooves, slowly grasping the cup as if gently trying to catch a fire fly without hurting it. Entranced at the illuminated cup, knowing Twilight's magic was the reason of its levitation. Rainbow once again greedily drank the liquid, barely realizing that Twilight began talking. “Rainbow... I don't want you to speak, but listen... I know you said you loved me...” Rainbow froze, slightly crinkling the plastic cup in her hooves, 'oh no... here it comes! She is going to give me I'm only a friend speech...' “Truth is... I love it when you come to my library... Even though I never get any work done when you do...” Looking up, Rainbow disobeyed Twilight's request at her not talking, “Th-then what about--” A hoof silenced her as Twilight continued, “I only pretend to work while you are there... I even... find excuses to get near you... Just yesterday before that storm... I went over to get a dictionary I didn't even need. I have two other personal dictionaries I already had on my desk... I didn't need the libraries copy... I just wanted... an excuse...” If one asked, nopony would ever believe that the awesome Rainbow Dash was on the edge of tears, but here she was, 'I knew it... it wasn't a crush... after all... it can't be if she likes me back!' “I once caught you looking at me... I didn't think anything of it at the time...” Twilight didn't seem embarrassed in the least at the moment, only what looked like fear was on her face. Rainbow blushed, but didn't dare break eye contact with the only mare that she has ever considered beautiful. Even if Twilight was up against Rarity in a beauty contest and Rainbow was the judge; Rainbow would choose Twilight every time. Every time Rainbow would try to speak up, Twilight would continue once more, “I know you said you loved me earlier, but I promise not to be mad if you want to take it back... I just wanted to let you know how I feel before--” Dash knew that if she didn't do something, Twilight would just keep rambling on and she couldn't SAY anything because the lavender mare would just stop her. Doing the first thing that came to mind, Rainbow snaked her hoof behind Twilight's head, pulling her forward until their lips met. Twilight's eyes went wide, her entire body freezing in shock. Unwilling to give up, especially after the confession Twilight just made, Rainbow kept up her kiss, never getting past Twilight's lips. Rainbow was about to give up and pull away before Twilight wrapped her forehooves around Rainbow's neck and quickly darting her tongue into the pegasi's mouth. Dash gave a raspy moan into the kiss, as she was forced back a little. Twilight took charge as she stepped up onto the bed and until Dash was on her back. Rainbow had always pictured being the dominant one if Twilight and she got together, but at the moment she was still too weak to fight back. At the moment… She liked it this way! By now, Twilight was getting really into it, kissing Dash's lips feverishly, her lust mainly taking over, but she never let her mind wander too far off from Rainbow's safety. In truth, other than the dryness and Rainbow's raspy voice, most of her energy had returned; overall she just still felt thirsty. However, the longer the kiss lasted, the more moisture built between her hind legs. Thirsty and moist, an unbelievable combination to have at the same time, but right now, she wished that moisture was somewhere else, at least a portion of it, so she could soothe her throat. Twilight broke away from the kiss, fighting for air, but that didn't stop her from asking, “You okay Dashie... you look worn out...” “J-just thirsty... again...” scarlet fused with Rainbow's cheeks as she watched Twilight as the unicorn jumped from the bed. Even though it hurt, Rainbow swallowed as she noticed Twilight's hips sway back and forth, allowing her to briefly see the purple unicorn's special area. The water ran briefly and Twilight returned faster than she had left. Rainbow noticed her freeze and Twilight was biting her lower lip, looking somewhere on the bed. Rainbow followed Twilight's gaze to notice a wet spot where the blankets touched between her legs. Dash averted her eyes as it was her turn to panic, “I-I can... explain...” “No need, I can understand just fine; I don't even need a book for it, either.” a sweet and seductive voice came from the beautiful yet now incredibly sexy Twilight. If Rainbow had heard that voice without being able to see, she wouldn't have ever thought it came from Twilight, or that the beautiful mare could have pulled off a voice so erotic. The cyan pegasus could only watch as the sheets that lay upon her levitated off. Twilight frowned, “I forgot you were wearing a hospital gown.” Twilight's frown was quickly forgotten as it turned itself upward. Rainbow jumped when the gown radiated a lavender aura, being quickly untied in the back and pulled from her body. The bed creaked as Twilight pulled herself onto the bed, levitating that plastic cup of water in front of Dash's face, “Drink up, you're going to need it!” Even with her sails flying at half mass, Rainbow's heart rapidly sputtered against her chest, just like when she practiced a stunt for every minute for an entire day. She downed the liquid, tossing the cup to the floor, waiting for Twilight's next move. A purple hoof found its way to Rainbow's shoulder as she was gently pushed to her back, the lovely unicorn hovering over the multihued mare. Twilight brought her head down to nuzzle Rainbow's cheek, lowering her body to rub their underbellies together. Rainbow let out a sigh of content, loving the feel of another against her coat. Though her voice didn't sound as raspy this time, Rainbow moaned, “I love you... Twilight... I've... wanted you for so long...” Suddenly the body above her suddenly froze, Twilight pulled back to reveal the bewilderment on her features, “Y-you have?” Usually the prismatic mare would have made a sarcastic remark, but all that came with a pink hue that discolored her cerulean features, “Y-yeah... Want to know a secret... Twi?” Twilight gently nodded, clear interest in her eyes as if she was receiving a book she never knew existed. Rainbow glanced away before connecting their eyes together once more, “I've never... read a Daring Do book, with you in the room...” “B-but... you read Daring Do ALL the time in the library...” Twilight's eyes widened. She couldn’t believe that Rainbow was such a good actor that she could sit for hours on end looking at a book, pretending to read. “Not... not a single word...” Rainbow admitted, she was starting to feel ridiculous, regretting letting that particular secret out. “So... what do you do... the entire time?” Twilight's features became rough, unable to stand the feeling of not being able to figure something out. “I can't stand it... All I can do when we are at the library... is look at you...” After the truth was out, Rainbow wanted nothing more to jump from bed and escape through the window. If it wasn't for Twilight's close proximity and Dash's weak state, she would have attempted it, even if Twilight was freakishly strong with that magic of hers. “I... wish I had known...” Twilight's voice fell even lower than Dash's was, a sullen look on her face, “I've... wanted you too... for so long... to think I could have been with you... sooner...” “Twilight... that doesn't matter now... I'm here now aren't I?” Rainbow stated, holding her hooves out to motion that Twilight come to her. Obeying the currently frail mare, Twilight stepped closer and laid down between Rainbow's hind legs, her eyes looking up and into Rainbow's magenta irises. Rainbow smiled as she clung onto Twilight's head as if she was hugging a large teddy bear, “I love you, Twilight... If I had the strength, I would so take you and make you mine!” Even though Dash tried all her might, Twilight pulled away with ease, once again giving her that seductive, succulent and half lidded stare, “Then, why don't I take advantage of the situation and make you mine instead?” Dash could feel her folds twitch at Twilight's statement, her legs instinctively spreading just a tab bit farther, giving Twilight the perfect view. Twilight grinned as she whispered, “And you seem so willing too!” For some odd reason, Rainbow's usual challenging instincts weren't kicking in. She was currently hypnotized by those purple eyes. All she could really do was watch as Twilight stepped forward. Rainbow expected a kiss and held out her lips, but they parted into a moan as Twilight's mouth connected with the cyan mare's neck. Rainbow's back was held snug against the bed, feeling Twilight's wandering hooves on her chest. Rainbow was glad that she didn't have her voice at the moment. There was a reason that she lived in a cloud home and one of the main reasons was because she was so loud when she pleasured herself. She felt too weird when she thought somepony would be able to hear her, but at the moment, her weak voice was a blessing. Nibbles could be felt at the base of Rainbow's ears and slowly trailing lower. Dash would usually try to take dominance, but both of them were enjoying it too much. Rainbow flinched as Twilight's right hoof trailed down her chest and onto her sensitive underbelly. At the faint touch, Rainbow spread her hind legs a little wider and her wings stiffened against the bed. Rainbow panted, trying her best to raise her voice, “L-lower... I need you... Twilight...” An ever present grin marked Twilight's lips as she pulled back with a half lidded and seductive glance, “Oh no, my clumsy hooves will never do!” Rainbow tried to give her a questioning glance, but Twilight had already returned to licking and biting at her neck, making her moan out once more. Dash winced in surprise when she felt something poking at her forbidden lips. Rainbow glanced down in confusion; both of Twilight's forehooves were on Dash's chest and Twilight's hind hooves were to the side, under either of Dash's own hind legs, 'W-what is she touching me... wi... ahh!' The cyan mare was quickly silenced as whatever it was slowly pressed forward and parting her damp folds, bucking her hips forward only to make the lavender hooves on her chest rub and venture a little faster. Rainbow managed to crack her clenched eyes open to notice Twilight's horn aglow, 'M-magic? is... is she using... a magic... p-penis on me?' All thoughts were halted as the member spread her a little farther, getting to a depth that no real stallion ever before ventured to. Rainbow whimpered, desperately wanting to scream out, but the only thing that came out was a weak and raspy, “T-twilight! M-more!” “Let me know if I hurt you...” Came a whisper into Dash's ear. Dash managed a nod in reply. Slowly at first, the magical purple stallionhood picked up its pace, thrusting itself in and out of Dash’s hole. Rainbow moaned out the best she could, her tunnel grasping the magical toy like a vice. Even if it wouldn't give her the squirting sensation she so desired, Rainbow rode it for all its worth. Rainbow's heart felt as if it was about to give out, racing a mile a minute. Dash looked over to notice that the heart monitor was also illuminated. Most likely Twilight cast a spell, so the doctors wouldn't come see why Rainbow's heart was racing so badly. Her cyan hooves hugged Twilight a little tighter to her as she tried to warn the lavender mare, “Twi… hah... I'm close...” Even though Dash couldn't see the look on her face, Rainbow could tell there was a smile on her face as she pulled away from nipping at Dash's neck, “Come on, my little Dashie, cum for me...” Though, her voice was weak and she couldn't get past little over a raspy whisper, Dash bit her lower lip to silence herself anyways. She frantically thrust her hips forward against Twilight's magic rod. From this position, it felt like Twilight really was a stallion, the base of the magic seemed to stop at Twilight's hips where a real stallion’s member would be; adding to the feeling that Twilight really was making Dash, her mare. A soft giggle escaped Twilight as she whispered, “Let's see if you like this?” Dash was about to question her, but watched as Twilight backed up until Rainbow could look her in the eye. Twilight returned the look with a smile before her lavender hooves lifted Rainbow's hind legs over Twilight's shoulders. Rainbow bit her lower lip a little harder as her mind raced, 'W-what is she doing? This looks an awful lot like... ahhahh...' The teeth that sank into Dash's lips were instantly released as she screamed out. Twilight was screwing her exactly like a real stallion would. Slamming her hips violently against her and slamming the rod deep into her crevices. Rainbow's hooves shot up to either side of her pillow to tightly grip at it. In between pants Rainbow looked up to notice Twilight's eyes clenched closed in a look of bliss and euphoric passion. Rainbow's heart skipped as she thought, 'She can't be getting pleasure from this... can she? It’s a fake... magical... ah... oh... my gosh!' By now, with each thrust, Rainbow could only manage a squeak. Which just fueled Twilight's lust for her lovely pegasus by quickening the pace. Rainbow cracked her eyes open when she heard Twilight speak, “I-i'm Ahhh... I'm close Dashie...” Biting her lower lip in exciting anticipation, Dash couldn't help but wonder what was going to happen when Twilight came. Would she cum in her like she so desperately wanted, spraying jets of pretend magical cum into her? Or would she just cum like a normal mare would, convulsing against her body. Rainbow's thoughts were once again faltered as her own orgasm stole her attention. Lips becoming a little too sore to bite anymore, Rainbow moved up her right hoof to bite down, waiting for the inevitable orgasm. “T-TWILIGHT!” Rainbow managed to scream out, despite the damage to her vocal cords. Dash's orgasm was tripled when she noticed Twilight's breathing labored to almost a halt as Twilight almost collapsed on top of her. Something was shooting inside of Rainbow and it felt AWESOME! Rainbow motioned her hips in a circular pattern, her mound desperately milking Twilight's stallionhood for anything the purple unicorn had to give. A breath was forced from Rainbow as Twilight finally collapsed on top of her, the magical strap-on suddenly vanishing. Rainbow shuddered from the feeling of it just vanishing. One minute being filled to the rim and the next to be completely empty without so much as a feeling of it being pulled out. Dash grinned as she felt Twilight's labored breathing on the nape of her neck. “I love you, Twilight... that...” Rainbow took a moment to catch a few intakes of air before continuing, “was... was awesome... how did you do that?!” “It...” Twilight barely got out one word before panting, “Gender s-spell... it only lasts... until orgasm though... and it’s not truly... a penis...” “Junk or no junk... you will always be my stallion... if you want to be... that is...” Rainbow grinned, slowly returning to her normal breathing, but it still was quick and short. “Always!” Twilight giggled as she snuggled a little closer. “So, does this mean we are... like... together now?” Rainbow asked, hugging the lavender mare a little tighter in fear of the answer. “I would say so, my lovely colorful mare.” Twilight pushed her hips against Rainbow's once more, earning a tired moan from the cyan pegasi. “Good... I love you, my sparkling stallion...” Rainbow grinned to herself. “Love you too, Dashie...” Twilight let out a contented smile, silence befalling the room as they spent the rest of the night, resting in each other’s hooves, never leaving that spot.