It was a bright sunny day out as the Mane 7 were over on the ground having a picnic together near Rainbow Dash's cloud house. This wasn't all that was happening however as Rainbow Dash has been waiting for her letter to see if she was going to be accepted into the Wonderbolts Academy which is a boot camp, where they train rookies who want to be Wonderbolts in the future. Right now, the Mane 7 were just doing their usual things on the peaceful ground. Twilight is reading, Applejack is eating an apple from the plateful she brought, and Rarity has donned sunglasses and is sipping a drink through a straw, Rainbow Dash was inspecting her hoof in a rather bored manner, Fluttershy was just resting, (Y/N) was on his back sunbathing, and Pinkie Pie was hopping around.

Pinkie Pie: Ooooh, I wish the mailpony would just come already! I can't wait another minute to find out if Rainbow Dash got in or not!

Twilight Sparkle: Pinkie Pie, you're more nervous than Rainbow Dash.

(Y/N): Nervous? Rainbow's been looking bored this whole time.

Rainbow Dash: Well, I also can't wait for the mailpony to send the letter. I'm not nervous at all like (Y/N) said. When I get into the Wonderbolt Academy. . .

Pinkie zips up to Rainbow Dash and starts to shakes her.

Pinkie Pie: IF you get in! IF you get in! Don't jinx it!

Rainbow Dash then pushes her off.

Rainbow Dash: I'm telling you, it's in the bag.

Pinkie Pie: Don't jinx it!

Applejack: She is the best flyer in Ponyville.

(Y/N): Applejack, "in Ponyville" is an understatement. Rainbow Dash to me could be the best flyer in all of Equestria. She is the only one to make a sonic rainboom after all.

Rainbow Dash: See? (Y/N)'s knows exactly who he's talking to. And check this out.

Rainbow Dash then flies up and zip to a cloud and a few seconds of quick circling are all she needs to sculpt the cloud into a hill and put a ramp in from top to bottom.

Rainbow Dash: I wouldn't be surprised if they just went ahead and made me a Wonderbolt on the first day.

She then eases down toward the ground, barely clearing the grass, and she runs into a set of hooves. She looks up to see that it was the mailpony that was expected to come.

Messenger Pony: Got a letter here for Rainbow Dash.

She eagerly snatches it away, rips off the envelope with her teeth, and spits it away to read silently. As she does however, her face slowly turns into one of sadness before she lifts her head up to tell her friends.

Rainbow Dash: I. . . didn't get in.

Everypony grows shocked from that as Pinkie let's out a dramatic gasp before Rainbow smiles and turns the letter for the others to see a check mark.

Rainbow Dash: Gotcha!

She laughs at her own prank as the others brighten and (Y/N) rolls his eyes playfully.

(Y/N): Ha ha, very funny.

Rainbow Dash: You guys are so gullible. Like I wasn't gonna get in!

Pinkie tackles her out of the air, knocking the letter away. The two are visible only as a rolling pink/blue blur for a moment before they stop, with Pinkie grabbing her friend up in a crushing hug.

Pinkie Pie: I'm just sooooooooooo happy for you!

Rainbow Dash: Uh. . . thanks?

Pinkie hugs her a little tighter.

Rainbow Dash: Pinkie Pie? (Y/N) and I kinda need to get going.

Pinkie then drops her out of shock from that before turning to said stallion.

Pinkie Pie: (Y/N)? You're going as well?!

(Y/N): I asked if it was okay if I volunteered as a temporary chaperone and they said it was perfectly fine. So, I'm going as well for not only that, but also to support Dash along the way.

Rainbow Dash then goes up and wraps a foreleg around (Y/N).

Rainbow Dash: And this is why you always get a bonus from me, (Y/N). Always wanting to stick by to support me.

(Y/N): Heh, thanks Dash.

Rainbow Dash: Now come on, the sooner I get to show 'em my stuff!

She dives past Applejack and Rarity, who have taken the strap of her saddlebags in their teeth and are pulling it taut. The move whisks the luggage away so that it ends up on her back and she skids to a stop on the grass.

Twilight uses her magic to wrap up (Y/N)'s saddlebags on him and he flies after Rainbow Dash.

(Y/N): We'll see you guys in a week.

Both Rainbow Dash and (Y/N) then take off up to Cloudsdale.

Applejack: Good luck, Rainbow Dash!

Rainbow Dash: Won't need it!

Pinkie races after them for a few strides, stops, and produces an enormous bullhorn which she turns on with a short squeal of feedback. When she yells into it, her words come out amplified to a volume that literally sets the surrounding mountains rumbling and shaking.

Pinkie Pie: DON'T FORGET TO WRITE!!!!!

The echoes and tremors take some seconds to die away, and she finds the remaining four mares with disheveled manes and hooves in ears once she turns away from the mouthpiece.

Pinkie Pie: Do you think they heard me?

Meanwhile, up high in the clouds both (Y/N) and Rainbow Dash were on they're way up to Cloudsdale when they both looked down hearing Pinkie's loud megaphone. Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow while (Y/N) chuckled.

(Y/N): *chuckles* That's Pinkie Pie for ya.

It took them not too much longer before the duo reached up to Cloudsdale to where the Wonderbolt Academy was. They both looked around gazing at the buildings and Pegasi training all around the place, however Rainbow Dash seemed way more interested.

As they both continue flying, Rainbow Dash spots the squad doing a hairpin turn to pass through a floating cloud hoop. A second group picks up speed for a takeoff, while a third does push-ups.

(Y/N): This camp seems well coordinated and has the proper skills for your tastes, eh Dash?

Rainbow Dash didn't respond to that confusing (Y/N).

(Y/N): Dash?

Rainbow Dash: I'm just. . . I just so ready for this! I'm been dreaming my entire life to become a Wonderbolt and this right here is going to the next level to reach it! This is gonna be sweet!

(Y/N): Well, I knew for a fact that you would be excited about this! And knowing you, you're the best flyer that I've ever seen Dash.

Rainbow Dash blushes at bit a hearing that.

(Y/N): So, don't think anypony going to wear you down. You've got this!

Rainbow Dash: Thanks, (Y/N). Glad you came along.

(Y/N): Me too.

Soon enough, Rainbow Dash went to go and get signed in to her group in the Wonderbolts while (Y/N) went to go and find the pony that he was supposed to see in order to see in order to become a supporter in the boot camp. He sees a large building in the distance and flies up to the entrance where a couple of stallions wearing some uniforms were walking in. He didn't know who to see so he asked them.

(Y/N): Excuse me? I'm looking for the pony that commands the Wonderbolt Academy.

Instructor Stallion: Oh, you a new instructor here or something?

(Y/N): Sort of. I volunteered as a chaperone to supervise some of the Pegasi here in the academy. Heard that I was actually the first one to ever accept it as well.

Instructor Stallion 2: Ah, I see! Well, in that case follow us. You need to see Sergeant Spitfire.

(Y/N): Sergeant Spitfire?

Instructor Stallion: She's the mare that leads this camp. And trust us when we say that she's REALLY assertive.

(Y/N): Huh. I'll keep that in mind.

(Y/N) then follows the stallions inside of the building and they walked to a corridor before arriving at a door with some blinds and the stallions go inside first.

Instructor Stallion: Permission to enter ma'am?

???: Ugh! What is it?

Instructor Stallion 2: We'd like you to know that somepony is here to see you for something important.

???: If it's the Pegasus that's keep demanding that I be less mean to them, I'm not interested.

Instructor Stallion: Actually ma'am it's somepony else. He's actually here to see you to know that he accepted as a chaperone in the academy.

???: Huh. That's rare. Send this pony in.

The stallions gesture to (Y/N) to walk inside and when he does he sees a mare with a brilliant gold coat, strong orange eyes, a vivid orange mane and tail with light brilliant amber stripes, she was wearing a drill sergeant attire with a whistle around her neck and sunglasses, and her Cutie Mark was a profile of a stylized phoenix. This was Spitfire. Leader of the Wonderbolts and sergeant of the Wonderbolts Academy.

When (Y/N) and Spitfire are standing face to face, the latter eyes him up and down before she notices that he's an alicorn which made her go wide-eyed before smirking.

Spitfire: Oh, I see. You're that alicorn guy everypony talks about now a days am I correct?

(Y/N): Uh, yes ma'am. You are correct.

Spitfire: Ma'am? There is no ma'am in here! You have enough authority that you'll just call me Spitfire!

She said that with a huge tone of voice that sounded very assertive and flamboyant which surprised (Y/N) a bit.

(Y/N): (Wow, they weren't kidding when they said that she was assertive.) Well, in that case pleased to meet you Spitfire.

Spitfire then faces the two stallions that were at the door.

Spitfire: What are you two still doing here?! I need to speak with this about our camp alone!

The two stallions jumped a little from that before closing the door and going off so that Spitfire could have a chat with him. As they left, Spitfire walks around (Y/N) and views him from all around, (Y/N) just stood completely still as he didn't know what to expect from somepony like her.

Spitfire: Yep, you're him all right. Heard you've battled some awesome creatures head to head.

(Y/N): Yeah, that includes Nightmare Moon, an Ursa Minor, a changeling named Queen Chrysalis, and a dark king named King Sombra.

Spitfire: You've got guts, (Y/N). I like that. Speaking of guts, you're actually our very first guy to ever volunteer to be a chaperone here for the newbies. Out of all ponies, you were the one to accept it. Why's that?

(Y/N): Well, I'm a guy who likes to give a lot of encouragement to others. I like to see them go and their fullest and not fail at all even at their lowest. I've been in that situation of encouraging others SO many times.

Spitfire: That's noble of you. I can see why so many ponies speak highly of you.

(Y/N): Not only that, I came here to support a friend as well. A very close friend actually.

Spitfire puts a hoof on her chin and nods.

Spitfire: Guts, encouraging, and loyal. Heh, you're more than qualified for this temporary job.

Spitfire jabs at (Y/N)'s chest twice when she said that before turning away to look out of the window.

Spitfire: Speaking of this job. . . I've been thinking of a better idea of you. But I'm only going to consider it if you can answer this question.

(Y/N): What's that?

Spitfire then does something completely unexpected and jerks up to (Y/N) instantly in the face and shouts like a loud coach.

Spitfire: YOU'VE GOT WHAT IT TAKES?!

(Y/N) was surprised by that at first before remembering what the two stallions said about her being assertive, so that must also mean that she's looking for somepony with the same type of assertiveness as well. After a few seconds, (Y/N) get's a determined look and retorts to that.

(Y/N): Got what it takes? Got what it takes?! I don't know who you're talking to because I've got enough for you to take those wings out onto the track, so I can put you down into the depths of the surface against your will!

Spitfire was shocked at hearing that as she stayed silent for a few seconds.

(Y/N): (Oh, boy. . . was that too much?)

However, after a few seconds, Spitfire grew a smile and she started to clap slowly as that sounded like the exact response and tone that she was looking for.

Spitfire: Now "that" is how somepony's suppose to talk to their rookies.

(Y/N) sighs that he didn't freak Spitfire out with his way of talking.

Spitfire: And just for that, I've got an outfit in mind for somepony of your style (Y/N).

(Y/N): Really? What's that?

Spitfire: I'll be right back.

Spitfire then walks out of the room and (Y/N) just get's a slightly conflicted look.

(Y/N): (I know I'm popular and all, but why is it always so easy for me to make friends with almost everypony I meet? Not that I don't like it.)

A little bit later outside, several ponies have gathered in a line on the tarmac, luggage and all, and are talking among themselves. Included in the group are Rainbow Dash, Thunderlane, Cloudchaser, Bulk Biceps. They're conversation came to an end when a certain females voice called out to all of them and it was Spitfire's.

Spitfire: Well, lookie what we got here.

Hearing her voice, causes them all to shut up and snap to attention. Spitfire then walks in along with two other instructors and she proceeds down the line of all of the Pegasi attending.

Spitfire: Bet y'all think you're Wonderbolt material, don't ya?

Pegasi: Yes, ma'am!

Spitfire: Think you got what it takes to be an elite flyer?

Pegasi: Yes, ma'am!

Spitfire: Well then. Let me be the first to tell you. . .

She had a smile that vanishes as she leans close and jabs a hoof into one mare's chest.

Spitfire: YOU DON'T! If you had what it took to be an elite flyer, you'd already be a Wonderbolt!

She gets in Cloudchaser's face who was in slight fear.

Spitfire: Still think you're something special?

Cloudchaser's legs started shivering from that and she springs a nervous look.

Cloudchaser: No, ma'am!

The expert mare directs her attention toward Bulk Biceps. She regards his massive chest, but the large stallion lets off a scared little squeak to give away his severe case of nerves. As he forces his face into something resembling a stoic expression, she eyes his barbell cutie mark and tiny wings skeptically and then hovers to look him in the eye.

Spitfire: Ya think you're hot stuff?

Bulk Biceps wilts with a strangled moan before Spitfire zips over to Rainbow, who keeps her eyes trained straight ahead instead of turning them to the side she is standing on.

Spitfire: You look like you're the worst flyer in the whole academy! You'll probably quit after the first day!

Rainbow Dash: No, ma'am! I'd never quit, ma'am!

Spitfire smirks and let's out a small chuckle as she likes to hear that attitude. She then walks up to the mare right beside Rainbow Dash who was a Pegasus mare with a light turquoise coat, a brilliant amber mane with brilliant gold stripes, she had brilliant gamboge eyes, and she had a Cutie Mark was a white lightning bolt with three stars. This was Lightning Dust.

Spitfire: What about you? Bet you couldn't fly past the first flagpole without getting winded.

Lightning Dust: Try me, ma'am.

Spitfire lowers her shades and stares over them.

Spitfire: What's that?

Rainbow Dash shoots her an uneasy sidewise glance.

Lightning Dust: Let me show you what I've got, ma'am.

Spitfire: Ah. You want a chance to prove yourself, huh?

Lightning Dust: Yes, ma'am!

Spitfire: Heh, well you're lucky to be here. In fact, you all better be happy that you're lucky to even be standing right here. You all are about to get your rumps whooped as somepony has potential than all of you here! That's right! You're wondering who I'm talking about? Well I'll tell you this, it's none of you!

Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow slightly at that.

Spitfire: This guy here has guts than all of you combined! If he was a Pegasus, then he would be a Wonderbolt instantly.

Rainbow Dash: *quietly* Wait. . . if?

Spitfire: We've decided to borrow somepony to give you some encouragement that he's known for giving hope to all of Equestria!

Spitfire then whistles with her hoof and the pony who came in next surprises Rainbow Dash a lot and it was (Y/N) who was wearing a Wonderbolt tunic and some (F/C) goggles on his head. He walks across the line all the way to where Rainbow Dash was and winks at her which made her blush before shaking it away to focus. (Y/N) then goes to stand next to Spitfire.

Spitfire: Meet (Y/N), bet you all know this guy! He'll be supervising all of you noobies throughout the camp, so I want your ears to be on for both of us! Got it?!

Pegasi: Yes, ma'am!

Spitfire then turns to (Y/N) and nods.

(Y/N): Alright, rookies! Let's see how well you handle five hundred laps around the course!

All of the Pegasi except for Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust moan in disappointment from that as (Y/N) already flew up to go and do it himself. Spitfire didn't like their disappointment however.

Spitfire: He means NOW!

Spitfire blows her whistles which triggers all of them to start flying, Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust were far in the lead alongside (Y/N) while the rest were lagging behind.

The cadets are zooming through their laps, going along the runway, around the plateau on the buildings' side, and through a hole in a cloud bank to complete the loop. As Cloudchaser hits the straightaway, Rainbow Dash, (Y/N), and Lightning Dust flash past her leaving a cloud of dust behind which Cloudchaser and the instructors cough up a bit from.

Spitfire: Lap four-hundred and ninety-nine!

Rainbow Dash: One more lap to go!

(Y/N): Hey Dash, how about a race? Haven't had one in awhile after all.

Rainbow Dash: A race? You are so on!

Lightning Dust: Can I join in on your little competition?

Both of them turn their heads towards Lightning Dust.

Lightning Dust: Just want to show off for a bit.

Rainbow Dash: Heh, sure why not?

(Y/N): Alright then. . . GO!

The three surge ahead, neither gaining more than a half-length lead on the other on the home stretch. They are neck and neck as they hurtle past the instructors leaving out a large dust cloud.

Spitfire: Five hundred!

The racers skid to a stop and they all give each other smiles as Spitfire walks past them.

Spitfire: Nice demonstration, (Y/N). You even got two that are heated for a lot of potential.

As she walks away, they all decide to greet each other.

Lightning Dust: Name's Lightning Dust.

Rainbow Dash: Rainbow Dash.

They high-five with their wings before Rainbow gestures over to (Y/N).

Rainbow Dash: This is my best friend, (Y/N). You've probably heard of him.

Lightning Dust: You bet. And I've got to say that your friend here seems like he's dauntless.

(Y/N): Thanks! You know I've never met somepony else that can keep up with my friend Dash here. She's the best flyer that I know.

Rainbow Dash blushes a little from that which Lightning Dust notices.

Lightning Dust: Well (Y/N), you're meeting another fast flyer as well. You two seem alright. You wanna grab some grub in the mess hall?

Rainbow Dash: Definitely.

They all walk along to go and grab some food, but on their way, Lightning Dust whispers into Rainbow's ear.

Lightning Dust: *whispers* Best friend, huh? You sure he's not your boyfriend?

Rainbow Dash's eye pop wide open from that and she blushes before glaring at Lightning Dust.

Rainbow Dash: *whispers* No way! He's just a very close friend of mine and nothing more.

Lightning Dust: *whispers* Then why are you whispering~?

Rainbow Dash: *whispers* I. . . That's. . . I'm just sparing his feelings, that's all. I-It's not that I'm interested in him or anything.

Lightning Dust: *whispers* Heh, whatever you say.

(Y/N): What are you two talking about?

Rainbow Dash & Lightning Dust: Nothing!

Back in Ponyville, Pinkie was at the mailbox in Sugarcube Corner and she was constantly waiting for feedback from either Rainbow Dash or (Y/N) by opening and closing the mailbox repeatedly. Applejack then walks up to her.

Applejack: Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash and (Y/N) haven't been gone twenty-four hours yet. Give them a chance to settle in first. Why don't we just go see what Twilight's up to? I hear Princess Celestia's got her workin' on some new spells!

Pinkie leaves the box alone and smiles thoughtfully.

Pinkie Pie: New spells, huh? Okay.

The two begin walking together, but get only a few feet away before Pinkie stops short.

Pinkie Pie: Wait! If I'm not here when Rainbow Dash or (Y/N)'s letter arrives, I won't be able to read it right away. And if I don't read it right away, I won't be able to write them back right away. And if I don't write them back right away, they might think I didn't get their letter, and then they might worry that it got lost. And if Rainbow Dash is worrying about her letter, she'll be distracted. And if she's distracted, then she won't do well at the academy! And if she doesn't do well at the academy, then she'll get kicked out! And if she gets kicked out, they'll never let her be a Wonderbolt! And if she doesn't get to be a Wonderbolt, all her dreams will be crushed!!

Applejack just stood dumbfounded at that entire assumption.

Pinkie Pie: And it will be all. . . my. . . fault!

She then pitches onto her back and Applejack stares at her with a bored look.

Applejack: So in other words, you're stickin' by the mailbox.

Pinkie Pie: Yep!

Applejack: Suit yourself.

She walks off and Pinkie goes back to repeatedly opening and closing the mailbox to see if they're friends got any letters.

Back at the academy, all of the cadets were now were now wearing Wonderbolt tunics as well as sporting some goggles on their heads. Spitfire and (Y/N) were standing next to one another addressing all of them in front of a very large object covered with a tarp.

Spitfire: The Wonderbolts are the fastest, best precision flyers in the world. But spin-outs can still happen. And when they do, a Wonderbolt must be able to recover quickly.

(Y/N): Which is why we'll be testing to see how fast each of you can recover to see if you're Wonderbolt material.

One of the other instructors pulls the tarp off to reveal a large wheel, vertically mounted, with a smaller metal wheel attached out near the edge and it had a belt running over it.

Spitfire: This. . . is the Dizzitron. It's gonna make you very, I repeat, "very" dizzy. Your task is to try and recover and fly straight again, as soon as possible. Once you have recovered you must come in for a smooth landing. (Y/N) here will give a demonstration of how it works.

(Y/N) flies and slips himself on the wheel's handle, gripping it with his hooves, so that it's under his belly. He salutes to an instructor that was on the control panel to activate the machine and he pulls a lever back and throws it forward bringing the rig to life. As the main wheel picks up speed, the pulley system causes the outer one to spin as well. Several of the other cadets become visibly queasy trying to follow the rotations.

Spitfire: Release!

The next pull on the lever launches him off the Dizzitron in a pinwheeling blur and after a couple of seconds (Y/N) recovers and zips back down to the ground back to were Spitfire was. He felt the tiniest bit of dizziness, but he was able to quickly regain his composure.

Spitfire: Six point nine seconds. Pretty good. Alright, now which one of you rookies is up first?

Rainbow and Lightning each raise a foreleg as Spitfire walks up.

Spitfire: You!

Ignoring the two eager volunteers, she instead focuses on a mare named Meadow Flower and she was shocked.

Meadow Flower: Me?

She looks past the no-nonsense officer towards at the Dizzitron and gulps in slight fear.

Spitfire: NOW!

The mare then does exactly what (Y/N) did and straps herself onto the handle.

(Y/N): You ready?

Meadow Flower: Y-Yes sir!

She settles her goggles on her eyes.

(Y/N): Hit it!

The instructor then pulls the lever up and pushes it back once more and as the Dizzitron activates and picks up speed, the pink mare's lips peel back from her teeth due to the wind rushing past her.

Spitfire: Release!

She is then launched into the air  and the world whirls around her for an eternity until she manages to get herself flying back toward the campus on something resembling a steady course. Her landing, however, consists of a low moan and skid down the runway on her haunches, followed by flopping spreadeagle onto her belly as she slows and spins to a stop before flopping her head to the ground.

Spitfire: Huh. Fifteen seconds. Decent, but I wouldn't go writin' home about it! Who's next?

Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust raised their forelegs once more and this time Rainbow Dash was chosen.

Spitfire: Alright, Rainbow Dash. Let's see what you got.

Lightning Dust's face falls from that, but she gives a small smile to see Rainbow Dash in action.

Rainbow Dash: Yes, ma'am!

An instant later, she is off the ground, tucking herself into the rider's spot on the now-stopped Dizzitron, and pulling her goggles into place. Spitfire then clicks on her stopwatch.

Spitfire: Okay, go!

The machine does its thing once again.

Spitfire: Release!

The sky-blue Pegasus gets slung out, flips in the air for a few seconds, and quickly rights herself for a direct run back toward the grounds. She swerves back and forth a bit just to show off before blasting past Spitfire and an instructor.

Spitfire: Six seconds? That's an academy record.

Rainbow Dash then lands right next to (Y/N) who smiled at her performance.

(Y/N): You are on fire!

Rainbow Dash: Heh, I'm always on fire when it comes to this.

Spitfire: Okay, Lightning Dust. You're up.

Lightning Dust flies up to the Dizzitron.

Lightning Dust: Ma'am, can you put the Dizzitron at maximum speed? I wanna push my limits.

(Y/N) raises an eyebrow from that while Spitfire was confused.

Spitfire: You sure about that?

Lightning Dust: Yes ma'am.

Spitfire: Okay. You asked for it.

The Dizzitron starts up once more, but as the RPM's mount, the instructor pulls a second lever, causing a needle on the control panel's gauge to swing through three different sectors marked with a turtle, rabbit, and winged skull with two lightning bolts. As the needle hovers in this last zone, Lightning Dust can be seen only as a whirling blur of blue-green on the outer wheel. The wind threatens to tear her entire face off as Spitfire watches impassively.

Spitfire: Release!

And off goes the cadet, leaving a corkscrewing lightning-bolt contrail that seems to go on forever. However, she almost immediately brings herself to a stop and plunges down toward the grounds, pulling up just short of the runway and flashing past Spitfire and another instructor.

Spitfire: Six point five seconds. Not bad.

(Y/N) was just surprised that this pony is tough enough to rival Rainbow Dash. She walks back to them and trades a hoof bump with Rainbow Dash.

(Y/N): Wow! You're tough!

Lightning Dust: I'm one to push my limits. That's how I roll.

(Y/N): I can somewhat relate. I had to push my limits in a couple of my battles, but there was also some times where I had to stand down due to others' safety.

Lightning Dust looked at (Y/N) surprised from that.

Lightning Dust: You mean to stopped fighting?! When you still had so much inside of you?!

(Y/N): Yeah, why?

Lightning Dust: You could've ended them on the spot! They're so much weaker than you! I'm sure the ponies you were protecting could've been fine whether they were in the way or not.

(Y/N) get's skeptical at hearing that.

(Y/N): (What did she just say?)

Lightning Dust: But, meh. You won in the end so no big deal. And that's something I like about you, (Y/N).

(Y/N) was just confused at what Lightning Dust was implying of him. However, Spitfire's loud voice interrupted his thoughts.

Spitfire: NEXT!

Soon enough, all of the cadets went and they were all either flying or lying on the ground out of disorientation from using the Dizzitron. The last mare finishes off as she skids past Rainbow Dash, (Y/N), and Lightning Dust and out of view, and the three wince at the sound of a very loud crash.

Rainbow Dash: No pony even came close to six seconds except us.

(Y/N): Just goes to show that you're more than capable of becoming a Wonderbolt, Dash.

Lightning Dust: Actually, they should make us Wonderbolts right now.

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, they should.

Her quiet laugh is then cut off by Spitfire's barking voice.

Spitfire: Listen up! For the rest of the camp, you'll be working in pairs. 'Morrow morning, I'll post the teams, including who'll be lead pony and who'll be wingpony. And also now that we've done all of the tutorials, (Y/N)'s going to just fly alongside to make sure everypony is in one piece. Good luck.

Lightning Dust: Like we're going to need it.

Her and Rainbow Dash do a hoof bump, down low and they start to walk off before (Y/N) get's Rainbow Dash's attention.

(Y/N): Hey, Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, what is it? Still impressed by some of my awesomeness?

(Y/N) rolls his eyes at that playfully before getting a serious look.

(Y/N): Not quite. I just want to tell you something about Lightning Dust.

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, what about her?

(Y/N): This is just a hunch, but. . . keep an eye on what she does. I have a feeling that she may be a bad influence.

Rainbow Dash raises an eyebrow at that for a moment, but knowing (Y/N), he's somepony that she can trust more.

Rainbow Dash: Eh, she seems normal to me, but I'll keep that in mind.

(Y/N): Still though, keep up the great work Dash. I feel like you'll be the best in this academy.

Rainbow Dash: Excuse me, I'm ALWAYS the best.

(Y/N) gives Rainbow Dash a slightly miffed look.

(Y/N): (Okay. . . maybe I tested her ego a bit there.)

The next morning outside, (Y/N) was waiting outside the building for Rainbow Dash and he waits for a few minutes before she comes out of the door. (Y/N) smile fell when he notices that Rainbow Dash had a downtrodden look on her face.

(Y/N): Hey, what's with the solemn look? Did something happen?

Rainbow Dash: *sighs* I'm a wingpony.

(Y/N): You're a wingpony?

Rainbow Dash: I thought that since that I had the least time then I would end up being a lead pony for a pair. . . but I was wrong.

(Y/N): Who are you paired with?

Rainbow Dash: Lightning Dust. Spitfire said that she thinks that Lightning Dust and I would be an unstoppable team, but she made me the wingpony since she likes to push herself harder than I do.

(Y/N): Well, don't worry about it. You're still the best in my eyes.

Rainbow Dash turns to face (Y/N).

Rainbow Dash: Really?

(Y/N): Yeah, I mean you always tell yourself that you're awesome to keep your confidence level going and I'm here to support you no matter what in this. So, don't let it get into your head alright?

Rainbow Dash gives a small smile from that before giving (Y/N) a small hug.

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, thanks (Y/N).

(Y/N): Don't mention it. Now come on, I'm sure the others are probably waiting for us right now.

Rainbow Dash nods at that as the two make their way to the entire group.

Both of them were now at the runway track (Y/N) stands in front of the entire group and Rainbow Dash walks up to Lightning Dust as she proudly holds up a gold badge for her to see. Rainbow Dash musters up a pained smile and looks at her own silver badge before Lightning Dust puts hers on and both face front. Spitfire then walks across to address the group.

Spitfire: Today you will all be participating in a flag hunt. We'll divide you into two teams, red and blue. Whoever finds the most flags of the opposing team's color wins.

Meadow Flower: Oh, this is gonna be so much fun!

Spitfire then gets in their faces.

Spitfire: If you think this is gonna to be fun, you are sadly mistaken. This is for training purposes. This is not recess. (Y/N)!

(Y/N): I'm going to be out on the course to make sure you all stay with your lead pony and wing pony. If I see any pair splits apart, they will be immediately disqualified. Understood?

Pegasi: Yes, sir!

(Y/N): (For some reason, I feel kind of uneasy being called "sir.")

Spitfire: Then let's go!

A whistle blast sends them all into the clouds. One pair peels off, then another, and Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust find themselves flying even with Cloudchaser and Bulk Biceps.

Lightning Dust: Ready to rock and roll?

Rainbow Dash: Ready.

They zoom ahead, cutting tight curves around the vertical walls of the high plateau and keeping an eye out for flags belonging to the opposing red team. Rainbow has a bit of trouble keeping up with her partner's sharp maneuvering, but soon catches up on a straight run.

Lightning Dust: You spotted any flags yet?

Rainbow Dash: Not yet.

They then pass over a crevasse bridged by two logs lying close together, and see that a red flag has been placed inside.

Rainbow Dash: Oh! There's one!

Lightning Dust: Good eyes!

She dives on it with Rainbow following, but they go awfully fast.

Rainbow Dash: We should slow down. It doesn't look like both of us can make it at this speed!

Lightning Dust: Peh.

She does the exact opposite, accelerating her plunge and forcing Rainbow Dash to shift her wings into fifth gear so as not to be left back. Her apprehension grows as they near the ground and Lightning Dust drops neatly through the gap in the logs, but Rainbow Dash gets a few feathers grazed off of one wing.

Rainbow Dash: Ow!

Down below, Lightning Dust snatches up the flag, but Rainbow Dash's lost plumage has cost her quite a bit of speed and stability.

Back on the runway track, the two touch down in front of the instructors with Lightning Dust carrying the flag by its pole in her teeth.

Spitfire: Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash found the first flag!

Rainbow Dash sits on her haunches and nurses her wing and (Y/N) also comes to her aid.

(Y/N): Are you alright?

Rainbow Dash: *grunts* Yeah. . . just. . . scraped a few feathers off. *grunts*

Lightning Dust: Come on! Let's find some more!

(Y/N): I think she needs a second to get her wing back together.

Lightning Dust: Oh, she's fine. She can just fly that off.

Lightning Dust takes off into the air and (Y/N) glares at her direction in shock.

(Y/N): (Does she seriously care more about winning rather than the safety of her own teammates?! What kind of partner is she?!)

Spitfire: Hey, (Y/N)!

(Y/N) turns to Spitfire who narrows her eyes at him.

Spitfire: I know you're tryin to make sure they're in check, but I think Rainbow Dash needs to get back into action. A fifteen second rest should be enough.

(Y/N) and Rainbow Dash look at each other a little worriedly before Rainbow Dash tries to fly, but due to her scuffed wing, it took her a little more effort to lift herself off of the ground.

(Y/N): Stay safe, alright?

Rainbow Dash: *grunts* I'll try, but no promises.

Back at Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie was still at the mailbox. She has fallen asleep sitting up, and quite a few strands of her mane have popped loose. Her sleep-bagged blue eyes fly open as she sucks in a lung-bursting gasp. She desperately yanks her mailbox open, then closes it again with a look of utter defeat, empty again and slumps lower on her haunches.

Twilight, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rarity were watching her with concern from an alleyway.

Rarity: She's still at it.

Fluttershy: I just wish we could help her.

Pinkie immediately zips up to them.

Pinkie Pie: Help me? The only thing that could possibly help me right now is a letter from Rainbow Dash and (Y/N)! It's been three days already. By now, they probably don't even know our names anymore! They probably can't remember our faces! "Pinkie Pie? I never heard of a Pinkie Pie! Who is Pinkie Pie?"

She opens the mailbox yet again and stares glumly inside as Twilight approaches.

Twilight Sparkle: Well, if you're so worried, then why don't you send them a letter first?

Pinkie thinks that over and smiles.

Pinkie Pie: Of course! That's a great idea!

Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy then all let out sighs of relief from that.

Pinkie Pie: Oh wait! I got an even better idea!

An instant later she pokes her head out of the mailbox, throwing Twilight for a loop.

Pinkie Pie: How about we send them a care package? You know, before they forget all about us? Although, come on, let's face it. It's probably too late for that. But, uh, maybe it'll jog their memory somehow.

Twilight rests a reassuring hoof on Pinkie.

Twilight Sparkle: Pinkie Pie, I'm sure (Y/N) and Rainbow Dash still remember our faces and who we are. But I think sending her a care package is a great idea.

Pinkie Pie: A care package it is! We'll send it through the mail!

Now Twilight allows herself a silent sigh, only to have it cut off by Pinkie now on the doorstep and just about to enter.

Pinkie Pie: WAIT! Ah! That won't work at all!

Applejack: Why not?

Pinkie then increasingly starts to get worked up once more.

Pinkie Pie: Because what if the package gets lost in the mail? What if somepony else gets the package by accident and then she remembers us instead of (Y/N) or Rainbow Dash and then she becomes our new friend? And then the real (Y/N) and Rainbow Dash won't ever know that they used to have friends and they forgot them!

Applejack: Is anypony else followin' this?

Fluttershy, Twilight, & Rarity: Mmm-mm.

Pinkie Pie: I've got it! We'll deliver the care package to them in person!

The other mares smile from that.

Rarity: I wouldn't mind a little trip.

Twilight Sparkle: I'll go.

Applejack: Count me in!

Fluttershy: Me too.

Pinkie Pie: Me five! But don't be upset if they don't recognize you at first. It may take a while for them to get her memory back.

Assorted reactions of disbelief came from that, including Twilight who claps a hoof to her face.

The next day at the academy, (Y/N), Spitfire, and her colleagues were waiting for the cadets to line up to gather in on a different runway track as everything around this time was all assorted like an obstacle course. One of the instructors blows a fanfare aimed directly into Spitfire's ear and she quickly gets fed up and levers the bugle off his lips, then faces forward.

Spitfire: Today we'll be doing our famous air obstacle course.

Up on the obstacle course, a couple of staff that were operating it had buckets on their heads. The contents inside of the buckets are tipped in, sending up geyser bursts that produce thick white clouds. Staff at a higher level buck these to set off lightning. Elsewhere, wind machines run at maximum output.

Spitfire: The object of this exercise is to work on your precision flying under extreme circumstances. And don't worry about winning. It's not a race.

Lightning Dust tips a challenging wink to Rainbow Dash, who seems a bit taken aback by her apparent plan to ignore Spitfire's words and even (Y/N) noticed it and he narrows his eyes at her.

Spitfire: (Y/N) here will be flying along to make sure everypony doesn't make any careless mistakes. Now everypony, get on your marks!

Goggles are lowered, a whistle is blown, and every one of the cadets gallop to the end of the runway track to take off on the course.

High overhead, one team after another soars through the hoops. One mare on cloud-hopper duty dumps in a fresh load, sending up a cumulus blast that knocks Cloudchaser and Bulk Biceps off course. (Y/N) caught them with his magic so that they weren't able to fall off of the course.

Rainbow Dash reacts with surprise, but Lightning Dust throws her a cocky grin and races ahead. Once Rainbow catches up, the two rocket through hoop after hoop and dodge the fresh clouds coming up from the hoppers. However, they are forced to hit the brakes in order to avoid slamming into a slow-moving pair ahead of them.

Lightning Dust: Ugh! Can't they go any faster? It's no good, I can't get around them!

Rainbow Dash: Doesn't matter! We can still fly completely in sync and blow Spitfire's mind with our moves! (Y/N)'s also looking out for us, so we've got nothing to worry about.

Lightning Dust: I guess. . .

At each of the next two hoops, they fly through, then do a loop-the-loop to go through again. The slower pair have now picked up speed, and they enter a thick bank of gray, rainy clouds with Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust on their tails. (Y/N) follows to enter in as well.

Inside, the lead pair struggle to maintain forward progress through the merciless wind gusts but are virtually stopped in their tracks, causing a traffic jam.

Lightning Dust: What are they, a couple of snails? It's just a little weather.

(Y/N) hears that from Lightning Dust and scowls at her.

The squall and accompanying lightning strike give Rainbow Dash pause, but sunlight soon works its way across her face due to their emergence into clear skies. Up ahead are the wind machines.

Lightning Dust: Now's our chance to pass these slowpokes!

They power ahead, knocking the lead pair aside. (Y/N)'s eyes pop wide open as he caught them and prevented them from bumping into any more flyers that were behind them. Both of the Pegasi thanked him as he gives a salute to them before looking over at Lightning Dust with a frown.

(Y/N): (Is she crazy?! Some of these Pegasi aren't as experienced as she is! Flying right past them that could've hurt somepony if I wasn't around!)

As (Y/N) thought of that, Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust easily swerve to avoid the gale-force winds before touching down on the runway as one. They skid to a stop in front of the instructors, and Spitfire checks her stopwatch and smiles.

Spitfire: Not bad! And in record time, too! Definitely made the right decision making you two a team. Why don't you two go hit the mess hall early?

Lightning Dust: Yes, ma'am!

Rainbow Dash: Thank you, ma'am.

Rainbow Dash then looks towards Lightning Dust with a bit of unease and (Y/N) flies down right next to her.

Rainbow Dash: I guess you were right when you said that Lightning Dust was a bad influence.

(Y/N): Let me go and talk to her for a sec.

Rainbow Dash nods as (Y/N) goes up to walk beside Lightning Dust.

(Y/N): Lightning Dust.

Lightning Dust: Yes, (Y/N)~.

(Y/N) raised an eyebrow at Lightning Dust answering him in that tone.

(Y/N): Listen, I know you want to be the best in the entire academy, but next time try not to be so impatient. Rushing past your fellow flyers like that almost got them hurt.

Lightning Dust: Oh, please. They're perfectly fine. Besides, nopony going to get hurt with you around to help them.

(Y/N): Maybe, but I can't help them all out on everything that they're doing. You have to understand that they're not as good at flying as you are, so you have to tolerate that whether you like it or not. Doing something reckless like that is not safe.

Lightning Dust: Tch. You snooze you lose! They just need a little practice is all. Besides. . .

Lightning Dust then does something completely unexpected and wraps her wing around (Y/N) to bring him in a little closer which made him blush and get a little bit uncomfortable around her.

Lightning Dust: You're one to talk about doing things that aren't safe. You always to show yourself off and battle creatures that nopony else can face which is something that I like to see in somepony like you~.

(Y/N) blushes even harder and get's flustered at Lightning Dust trying to flirt with him. Rainbow Dash sees this and growls a little from that before going up and breaking Lightning Dust and (Y/N) away before glaring at Lightning Dust.

Rainbow Dash: O-Okay! How about you actually focus more on cooperating with your teammate rather than focus on the only alicorn here?

Lightning Dust: Eh, fine by me. Kicking all that tail has made me hungry.

When both of them were about to enter the mess hall to have some lunch, Lightning Dust decides to dare and take one peek back at (Y/N) and she winked at him. (Y/N) recoiled a bit in slight disgust from that.

(Y/N): (Geez, I barely even get to know her and she's already trying to hit on me. Not only is reckless, but she's also blunt too.)

Soon after lunch was done in the mess hall for all of the cadets, it was back onto the runway track for cloud busting as a whistle was blown by an instructor stallion and all of the cadets immediately took of into the air with (Y/N) following right behind them. Each of the pairs bust down one cloud after another as the instructor marks each team's tally on a chalkboard down below. Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust were far in the lead as they swiftly take down any cloud they come across. Bulk Biceps bites one cloud into submission.

Bulk Biceps: Yeah!

Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust do a few unorthodox methods for smashing the clouds: flying into one headfirst, slicing others in half with the wake of their passage, bouncing through a dense patch like a pinball in the bumpers. They pull even with each other next.

Lightning Dust: I have an idea about how we can literally blow away our competition.

Rainbow Dash glances off to the side and see the others' slow pace at busting down clouds. She turns back with a confused look.

Rainbow Dash: But we're already way ahead.

Lightning Dust rolls her eyes from that.

Lightning Dust: Are you in or not?

Spitfire: (In Rainbow Dash's Mind) Lightning Dust likes to push herself a little harder than you do. That's why I made her lead pony.

(Y/N): (In Rainbow Dash's Mind) Keep an eye on what she does. I have a feeling that she may be a bad influence.

Rainbow Dash: Is it safe?

Lightning Dust: Huh?

Rainbow Dash: I'm asking is it safe? So that nopony get's hurt.

Lightning Dust: Of course, it's safe. Trust me, nopony will even notice what we're doing.

Rainbow Dash: I. . . guess I'm in then.

Lightning Dust: Then follow my lead!

Rainbow Dash copies her moves, first rolling away to one side and then flying in a tight circle until a large tornado takes form and begins to destroy all the clouds in the vicinity. It then starts to move across the sky, annihilating each white puff it encounters but inside, Lightning's dead-steady flight pattern wavers badly.

Lightning Dust: I can't control it!

She is thrown clear, then Rainbow, and the twister veers sharply away. (Y/N) immediately notices the twister throwing out the two and immediately goes to save both of them and he caught both of their wings with his hooves.

(Y/N): Are you two alright?

(Y/N) let's go of both of their wings so that they both can fly into the air and Rainbow Dash smiles at (Y/N) while Lightning Dust smirks at him.

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, we're fine.

Lightning Dust: Heh, you've got some nerve coming in to save me.

(Y/N): Um, yeah. That's my job here at the academy.

Lightning Dust then wraps a foreleg around (Y/N) once more making him agitated.

Lightning Dust: Heh, somepony who saves me is more of my companion if you ask me~.

Rainbow Dash hears that pushes Lightning Dust away from (Y/N) once more.

Rainbow Dash: Will you quit that?!

Lightning Dust: Why? I thought you said that he wasn't your boyfriend.

Rainbow Dash: *blushes* H-He's not! J-Just. . . give him his personal space is all I'm saying!

(Y/N): *quietly* Thank you!

Rainbow Dash heard that as she turns to (Y/N) and nods.

However, suddenly they heard screaming next as Rainbow Dash and (Y/N) look to their right and they get shocked and worried looks at what they see next as the rest of the mares of the Mane 7 were riding in the hot air balloon and were caught in the twister.

Rainbow Dash: (Y/N)! They're in trouble! We've got to save them!

(Y/N) quickly looks around for any solutions as he sweats. One by one, the ropes connecting the basket and canopy snap, leaving the former to hurtle out of the tornado and plummet with its cargo of screaming mares.

(Y/N) was just a few seconds out of time for looking for a solution before he notices a hole in the ground down below.

(Y/N): Dash, fly down there! See if you can save our friends using any of the environment around!

Rainbow Dash nods as she quickly flies down past the other cadets in a rainbow streak and in short order she is power-diving to pull ahead of her friends, now tumbling free of the basket. She plunges into a hole on a lower ledge of the Academy plateau.

The other end of the hole sends her out the side farther down, and she flies tight circles around a large bank of clouds. While doing so, she drives her shoulder against them and gradually ascends; the clouds are gradually whittled and compressed into a single wad. When the mares hit it, they do not fall through but instead sink in slightly, as if they have just fallen onto a mattress.

Rainbow Dash switches to a brief corkscrew, causing the cloud to shoot them upward like a spring and disintegrate. Fresh screams tear the air but turn into relieved sighs as (Y/N) quickly caught both Rarity and Twilight in his hooves and with his magic, he levitated Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy.

(Y/N) immediately sets them all down to the surface where the runway track was. As he lands, the mares share a brief group hug with (Y/N) which he returns to them.

(Y/N): Are you girls alright?

Twilight Sparkle: Yeah, thanks to you.

Rainbow Dash then enters to meet with her friends as well as they all shared a group hug with her as well. The other cadets that were in the air apparently watched (Y/N) and Rainbow Dash's whole performance as they all clapped their hooves at them saving their friends.

Rainbow Dash looks behind herself and looks in fright at seeing Pinkie who was flat on her belly on the grass.

Rainbow Dash: Pinkie Pie!

Both her and (Y/N) run over to her and after a bit of effort, Pinkie lifts her head clear and breaks out in a quivering, teary-eyed smile at the sight of her friends. Two pink forelegs clamp onto their tunic-clad shoulders.

Pinkie Pie: You. . . remember me!

(Y/N): Um. . . of course we would remember you. Why wouldn't we?

Rainbow Dash: What are you all doing here?

Applejack: We wanted to bring you a care package. Didn't realize you'd be in the middle of some crazy tornado drill.

(Y/N) then get's a serious look from that.

(Y/N): That's because we weren't. That tornado wasn't even OUR doing. It wasn't even supposed to be there in the first place.

Rarity: Then who is responsible for it?

Lightning Dust then appears among the cadets with an excited look.

Lightning Dust: That. . . was. . . awesome!

Everypony glares at Lightning Dust when she said that.

Rainbow Dash: Awesome? Our friends could have been smashed to pieces!

Lightning Dust: Yeah, but they weren't, right?

She rockets up above the crowd and peers into the clear sky.

Lightning Dust: Can't say the same for the clouds. We totally wiped them out with that tornado.

Down she comes, lounging in midair with hind legs crossed and forelegs behind head.

Lightning Dust: The other cadets will have to be up there for days to bust as many as we did.

The other cadets around were shocked at hearing that before Lightning Dust goes up to (Y/N) and get's in his face.

Lightning Dust: And that was some serious action you put on! I see why they call you a hero. You and I should see each other more (Y/N). I don't suppose you'd like to go out sometimes huh?

(Y/N) backs away from Lightning Dust and both him and Rainbow Dash looked at each other with agreeing glares that they both had correct opinions about Lightning Dust.

(Y/N): Uh, no thanks!!

Lightning Dust was slightly shocked from that.

Lightning Dust: What?! Why?

(Y/N): One, we just met! Two, you like to make irrational decisions that get other ponies hurt! Three, you only like me cause of my popularity! And four, I finally figured out that you weren't only putting others in danger like that because you wanted to get those tasks done faster, but you also wanted to just see me in action saving ponies! I would never like somepony who wants to put her own needs before her teammates or friends! And that's what you did!

Lightning Dust was slightly taken aback from that being rejected from (Y/N) before she turns her attention to Rainbow Dash and holds a hoof out in front.

Lightning Dust: You and I are still cool, right Rainbow Dash?

Rainbow Dash looks at her hoof before glaring at Lightning Dust and pushes her hoof away.

Rainbow Dash: A hoof bump? Seriously? You made me clip my wing. You sent half of our class into serious tailspins on the obstacle course. You unleashed a tornado that nearly demolished my friends!

Lightning Dust: Yeah, and?

Rainbow Dash: And I get that you want to be the best. So do I! But you're going about it in the wrong way.

Lightning Dust: The Wonderbolts don't seem to think so. After all, Spitfire did make ME the leader and YOU the wingpony.

That takes some of the starch out of Rainbow Dash and her friends. But (Y/N) walks up to her and rests of hoof on her shoulder.

(Y/N): Yeah, she did. Which is why we're going to talk to her right now.

Rainbow Dash looks at the medal that she was wearing before back at (Y/N) with a serious look and nods.

Both Rainbow Dash and (Y/N) decided to go and confront Spitfire about the academy as they enter her office as she sees both of them.

Spitfire: Huh. This must be important if (Y/N)'s here along with you.

(Y/N): As a matter of fact Spitfire, it is.

Spitfire: Spit it out then.

Rainbow Dash: We're now done with all of the cloud busting, ma'am, but Lightning Dust decided to use a tornado.

Spitfire: A tornado? That seems a bit excessive for cloud-busting. But judging from your time, it was obviously an effective tactic.

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, well that "effective tactic" nearly took out our friends!

(Y/N): Listen Spitfire, you have to know that Lightning Dust isn't somepony who should be attending this academy. She's ruthless, reckless, and likes to put ponies in danger just to complete her tasks or impress others.

Rainbow Dash: No disrespect, ma'am, but there's a big difference between pushing yourself as hard as you can and just being reckless.

(Y/N): Over the time, you should've noticed that Lightning Dust was putting the whole class in danger. Instead you just shook it off like it was no big deal. I noticed it and tried to make sure they were all safe and sound. But if you want us to attend an academy that involves others behaving unruly. . .

Rainbow Dash: . . .And if being reckless means that's what it takes to be a Wonderbolt, then we don't want any part of it.

Spitfire: What are you two saying?

(Y/N) and Rainbow Dash giving an agreeing nod as Rainbow Dash takes off her badge and slams it down on the desk.

(Y/N) & Rainbow Dash: We quit!

Spitfire's eyes widen to the size of dinner plates at that as they both exited the office. As the door closes behind them, Rainbow Dash realizes that she just gave up her dream of being a Wonderbolt right on the spot and looks down solemnly. (Y/N) wraps a foreleg around her out of sympathy and Rainbow Dash looks at him before giving (Y/N) a hug which he returns. It was a brief moment however, as they broke it and started to walk their way out of the office.

Rainbow Dash: This. . . This is for the best.

(Y/N): You made the right decision though. I always like to see you safe and sound in front of my eyes and never in danger.

Rainbow Dash gives a small smile and blush from that as they exit.

The two went back outside and they both had their saddlebags on their backs prepared to head back home. They also explained to the rest of the Mane 7 about their decision.

Applejack: You did what?!

Rarity: Being a Wonderbolt was your dream!

Rainbow Dash: Not anymore.

(Y/N): We know this was your dream, but. . . from what we saw, it's better this way.

All of the Mane 7 then lean their heads sadly against each other. However, the sentiments were interrupted when a voice called out to them.

Spitfire: Rainbow Dash! (Y/N)!

They then turned to see Spitfire trotting to them along with the other instructors and to say that she was a little angry was an understatement.

Spitfire: How dare you storm out of my office without giving me a chance to respond! The Wonderbolts are looking for the best flyers in Equestria!

Spitfire then takes off her shades for what she has to say next as her anger changes to self-disappointment.

Spitfire: But you two were right. Being the best should never come at the expense of our fellow ponies. It's not just about pushing ourselves. It's about pushing ourselves in the right direction. And you two have shown that you're capable of doing just that.

The smile turns into a grimace as she glances back and throws a gesture. The instructors step to the side to reveal Lightning Dust who had a guilty look on her face. She is then met in the face with a furious Spitfire as she rips the lead-pony badge off of her tunic. It takes a patch of fabric with it and sends her into a bug-eyed gape of disbelief, followed by her best effort to keep from bursting into tears as Spitfire points emphatically back the way she came telling her that she was being kicked out the academy for her reckless actions.

Lightning Dust walks back along the runway, her spirits perhaps six feet below her hooves, and gives the group one last half-hearted flick of her wings before being escorted away by the two instructor stallions.

Spitfire then walks up to Rainbow Dash and puts her new golden lead-pony badge on her chest.

Spitfire: You're no wingpony, Rainbow Dash. You're a leader.

Rainbow Dash got excited as her wings started to twitch up and down.

Rainbow Dash: OhmygoshOhmygoshOhmygoshOhmygoshOhmygosh!

Spitfire then turns to (Y/N).

Spitfire: And (Y/N), I can see why they call you a hero now. For that, you're welcome to come down and supervise our rookies anytime you'd like.

(Y/N) smiles from that as he salutes to Spitfire. She then gives a playful smirk.

Spitfire: And I can see why you're fond of Rainbow Dash here as well.

Both (Y/N) and the said Pegasus shot their eyes wide open from that.

(Y/N): S-Say what?

Spitfire: Come on, "I'm here to support a friend." Yeah right, you came to get closer to your girlfriend her didn't you?

Hearing the word "girlfriend" sent both of them in a loop before they both shouted out the exact same sentence.

(Y/N) & Rainbow Dash: WE ARE NOT DATING!

Spitfire chuckles from that as Rainbow Dash and (Y/N) looked at each other in astonishment that they were thinking of saying the exact same sentence. The other members of the Mane 7 giggle from that as they all knew that they not only had a crush on (Y/N), but Rainbow Dash did as well.

Spitfire: You two are alright in my book, but now that we have that taken care of.

Spitfire puts her shades back on and goes back into Sergeant mode.

Spitfire: GET OUT THERE AND GIVE ME TWENTY!

Rainbow Dash salutes to that.

Rainbow Dash: Yes, ma'am!

She takes off, instantly shedding the saddlebags, and meets up with the other, non-disgraced cadets in midair. They snap her a salute, which she returns proudly, and follow her as she starts in on those twenty laps. Twilight then noticed that (Y/N) wasn't following as he just looked up at Rainbow Dash flying out with her class which made her a little concerned.

Twilight Sparkle: You're not going to follow them?

(Y/N): I think Rainbow's got it covered. Besides, she knows what it takes to be a Wonderbolt.

Pinkie then leaps up frantically, holding the crushed and battered box of goodies, and calls up after the newly promoted Wonderbolt-in-training.

Pinkie Pie: Wait! You didn't even get to open your care package!

(Y/N) gives a wry smile and sigh as he levitates the package up with his magic.

(Y/N): I guess I have one more task to do.

(Y/N) then flies off as well to go and give Rainbow Dash the care package that they sent them while having a thought in his mind.

(Y/N): (Rainbow Dash will achieve her dream become a Wonderbolt one day. With her loyal attitude towards all of her friends, I know she will.)

Chapter 6 End.