Mario: The Newcomer of Equestria

by xMariox101

After loving his life for so long in the Mushroom Kingdom, Mario suddenly comes across a rainbow warp pipe and gets transported into Equestria. There he will meet the Mane 6 as together they will be in big adventures all about the Magic of Friendship. This is a Mario x MLP Harem story.

101. Let’s-a Fly

Things have been going great so far in Ponyville for the crew as Starlight's lessons were going quite smoothly now especially now that she's best friends with Trixie. The two have been hanging out so much that they practically found the incident with Trixie and Twilight to be a ghost story at this point. Not long after that, Rainbow Dash fulfilled her dream into becoming what she always wanted to be. . . a Wonderbolt. She could not be anymore than the happiest Pegasus alive as she's now an official Wonderbolt since one of their former crew retired. She did have some problems with them as she thought that they looked down on her, but that wasn't the case at all as all of them, especially Spitfire wanted to be some of her closest friends and teammates.

Weeks later after that, Rainbow Dash was now the best Wonderbolt in her friends' eyes especially Mario considering she was his girlfriend. Speaking of Mario, after these events happened, Twilight wanted to do some tests with Mario's flight with his Winged Hat to see just how powerful he can be with it. Them along with Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Starlight Glimmer were outside near the woods of the Everfree Forest.

We see in a camera's perspective that Pinkie was the one filming the entire thing as she was currently filming Twilight with Starlight right behind her. She steps backwards a little bit before smiling.

Twilight Sparkle: Okay, let's get started. Flying Experiment, Take 1. Operation: Slingshot. Everypony ready?

Rarity, Applejack, & Fluttershy: Ready!

Pinkie Pie: Ready!

We then see a close up of Mario's face as he looked extremely nervous while looking around as he was now wearing his Winged Hat.

Mario: U-Um. . . Twilight?

The camera then zooms out to show Mario tied to a slingshot that was being pulled back in Starlight's magical grasp.

Mario: Are you sure this is safe?

Twilight Sparkle: Oh, right. Almost forgot.

She then levitates up a pair of goggles and puts them on before levitating all of the others, some except for Mario as they all put on their safety equipment as well. Twilight then turns to Starlight and nods.

Twilight Sparkle: Hit it, Starlight!

Starlight then releases the slingshot causing Mario to scream while he spreads his arms out and makes his Winged Hat flap with wings, but he apparently couldn't control his speed to get enough directional flight as he quickly crashes into a tree face first. Everypony else who saw this cringed at the impact before Mario fell down to the ground and moaned in pain as it cued the Lose a Life Fanfare.

The crew are now seen on top of a large empty hill as Pinkie was filming the entire thing with a camera once again as she was focused on Twilight.

Twilight Sparkle: Flying Experiment, Take 2. Operation: Roller Skates.

Twilight then moves out of the way to show Applejack and Rarity holding a bandaged Mario who had them all over his body from head to legs. Mario even had a dizzy look on his face as he hadn't fully recovered from the last test. The camera zooms in to show the skates, and then zooms out.

Mario: *groans* W-Wait. My head's-a still pounding from the last go.

Pinkie Pie: He said go!

Mario: Wait, what?!

Rarity and Applejack just push Mario down the hill, as he spreads his arms out and flaps the wings on his Winged Hat, but he was gradually picking up speed going down the huge slope of the hill. Mario screams as he rides down the slope before getting launched up into the air at a fast velocity. However, gravity quickly pulls Mario back downwards as he looks down to see that he was over a lake which made him sigh in relief.

Mario: Water? Oh, good. At least there was a failsafe to the test this ti-

However, when he made contact with the water. . . he belly flopped and what was worse about this was that the water was too shallow as Mario only sinked a couple of feet down, cueing the Lose a Life Fanfare again. Rarity was the first one to run up to Mario looking worried.

Rarity: Oh no, Mario!

She then glares down at him.

Rarity: You got my skates all dirty and filthy!

The camera focuses on Twilight again as this time the crew are now in the middle of Ponyville, while a wooden treadmill and Spike are seen in the background.

Twilight Sparkle: Flying Experiment, Take 3. Operation: Treadmill.

Twilight then moves out of the way to show Spike jogging on the curvy treadmill and he looked like he was running out of breath doing so as he jogged for a few more seconds before jumping off while sweating as the lack of kinetic energy made it stop. He wipes his forehead before walking offscreen while the other mares look in awe.

Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, & Starlight Glimmer: Ooooh.

Twilight Sparkle: Since Pegasi are already fast in the air, logic dictates that while running AND with Mario's power, Mario would be able to move even faster with his Winged Hat.

Mario smiled at the treadmill as this seemed a lot more safe than the other attempts so far. He quickly jumps on and starts walking.

Mario: Haha. This one doesn't-a seem so bad.

He then begins running while spreading out his arms and flying his his Winged Hat, but the sudden increase in speed causes the wood on the treadmill to fall apart which Mario sees as he loses his balance and gets thrown backwards and a crash is heard. Pinkie moves the camera to show that Mario has crashed into Bulk Bicep's nut cart as he had a bag of cinnamon nuts over his hat while Bulk Biceps looked down at him surprised.

Pinkie Pie: I missed that last part. Can we do it again?

Mario just groans in response to this, cueing the Lose a Life Fanfare once again.

Later on, all eight of them were now inside of the Castle of Friendship in the library as Twilight was writing down on some notes with a quill as Starlight was looking through them with her and after a little bit, Twilight shakes her head before turning back towards Mario, who was still bandaged up, and the rest of the crew.

Twilight Sparkle: Okay, everypony. I'll be the first to admit that my tests have been a tiiiiiiny bit inconclusive.

Pinkie Pie: Does inconclusive mean the same thing as "hilarious"?

She hops once from this as Mario looks at her with a deadpan look while Twilight shrugged her shoulder and smirked.

Twilight Sparkle: You know what they say, "No pain, no gain."

Mario: *sarcastically* Sorry if all of this was "painful" for you, Twilight.

Twilight Sparkle: *sighs* I'm okay. Without your injured arms though, I would have never been able to grab sufficient data from the experiments and after a closer look, we can come to one reasonable explanation.

Mario: Hmm? What's-a that?

Starlight then sheepishly smiles while rubbing the back of her head.

Starlight Glimmer: We. . . have no idea how to boost your speed without using any strength at all. . .

Mario and some of the other mares groan in annoyance from Twilight not coming up with a definite conclusion on Mario's abilities as the injured mustachioed human just turns around and walks towards the door out of the throne room.

Mario: *sighs* It's-a fine, girls. Even I don't-a know all of my full capabilities yet, but after all of those tests and experiments, I think it's-a time that I take a nap so that my body heal properly.

As Mario approaches the door however. . . Pinkie's body was suddenly starting to shake which all of the mares saw with widened eyes as they all took a step back from Pinkie.

Pinkie Pie: I-I-I feel a combo activating and it's. . . Ear flop. . . Eye flutter. . . knee twitch!

Applejack: Wait a sec. . . Ain't that. . .

However, the mares realized the combo a little too late as they looked towards Mario who was getting ready to open the door. . . but the door suddenly slams open at Mario which made him yell out in pain and through the door came in an extremely excited rainbow Pegasus who was flying over the entire gang.

Rainbow Dash: Guys! Guys! Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh! You won't believe this! This is the BEST news that's ever happened since underwear has been invented!

Twilight and Applejack looked at each other with raised eyebrows while Rarity got a slightly disgusted look on her face.

Applejack: We're gonna need a little more than that. . .

Rarity: And for heaven's sake, if you're at least going to have a fashion choice be described, I'd less prefer it be something foul.

Pinkie Pie: Oooh! Like donuts! The big ones you can wear like bracelets on your hoof before getting a scrumptious meal out of them!

Rarity looks at Pinkie weirdly before deadpanning back ahead.

Rarity: And probably something less messy too. . .

Rainbow Dash: Okay, okay, okay! So you guys remember how I finally got to be in the official Wonderbolts?!

Everypony around the area just deadpans up at Rainbow Dash as this coming from her definitely means that this isn't the first time that she has asked this.

Applejack: *sarcastically* I seem to remember we put ya a party to commemorate you gettin' in. . .

Twilight Sparkle: *sarcastically* AND we went to your show. . .

Pinkie Pie: Yeah, the exact same one where that storm cloud came out of nowhere and-

Rainbow then stuffs her mouth shut as she apparently didn't want to be reminded of that event.

Rainbow Dash: L-Let's not jog our memories on how uncool I was with the Wonderbolts. . . Let's start explaining the most AWESOME news that's ever to come in Equestria in 15 years!

Twilight Sparkle: 15 years?

Rainbow Dash: Pretty soon. . . Equestria is going to hold ANOTHER Mustang Marathon! The same race where Wind Rider held the speed record for the Wonderbolts! And this time, I'M going to be the one who races for the Wonderbolts!

She said this with a big grin and stars glittering in her eyes as the confusion from all of the other mares around turned into excitement except for Starlight as she was still confused.

Starlight Glimmer: Mustang Marathon? What exactly is a Mustang Marathon?

Rainbow Dash: Wow. . . YOU really need to get out more, sister. It's the biggest race Equestria ever holds every 15 years for any sort of Pegasus out there! Anypony and I mean ANYPONY can participate, whether you're racing for a team or not!

Twilight Sparkle: Well, considering what you're capable of when it comes to flying, you should have no problem out there.

Rainbow Dash: Heh, yeah. If I can do a Sonic Rainboom in my sleep then it's no surprise, Spitfire thought that I was the perfect candidate. . . but that's just the FIRST awesome thing about this! . . .They're letting any other kind of pony race participate as well this time! Unicorns AND Earth ponies are welcome to compete as well!

Everypony around raised eyebrows at this as one of those is not capable of flight at all.

Mane 5 & Starlight Glimmer: Huh???

Pinkie then leans over towards Applejack to whisper loudly towards her.

Pinkie Pie: *whispers loudly* Umm. . . They know that Earth ponies can't fly. . . right?

Rainbow Dash: Hey, if you ask me. . . If unicorns are capable of using magic for flight then I don't see how they can't find a way for Earth ponies to get in as well.

Fluttershy: U-Um. . . if you're asking us to come with you. . . I-I think I'm better off cheering for my friends then I am winning for them.

Rainbow Dash then flies over and pats Fluttershy on the head condescendingly.

Rainbow Dash: Oh, no. This is way out of your league, Fluttershy. It requires the most daredevilish ponies to be out on the field. BUT. . . this is the most exciting part, there's no rule stating that alicorns and humans can't participate. . . meaning Spitfire also wants Mario to come and race for the Wonderbolts!

Applejack smirks and rolls her eyes.

Applejack: *sarcastically* Well, ain't that quite the surprise.

Rainbow Dash then looks around and just now notices that the male alicorn isn't in sight to hear this news which made her raise an eyebrow.

Rainbow Dash: Hey. . . Where is the stud anyway?

Everypony's eyes widen from this as they all chuckle nervously before looking on straight ahead which made Rainbow Dash raise an eyebrow before he hears the door that she slammed open creak as on the surface of the door. . . Mario was as flat as paper plastered onto the door. . .

Rainbow Dash turns around to see this and she just bursts out laughing while pointing towards Mario whose only reaction is to blink and glare at Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow Dash: Hahahaha!! I guess that's ONE way to make a pancake!

Mario just peels off the surface of the door, still 2-dimensional as he hits the ground. Pinkie just hops over towards Mario with a bright smile.

Pinkie Pie: Don't worry, sweet sweet canyon! Leave it to your one and only Pinkie Pie to fix problems that happen from a Pinkie Sense!

Pinkie then holds up the flat Mario before she takes in a huge inhale and blows into his mouth many times which causes Mario to start puffing up like a balloon. Eventually, he was big enough to the point of where his eyes bulged out a little and he suddenly then starts blowing out all of the excess air in his body as he starts flying around the place "deflating" as the all of the other mares watched this in confusion as Starlight walked on over to Twilight.

Starlight Glimmer: How does she keep doing these things?

Twilight Sparkle: Even I can't explain it, which is exactly why Mario always says in these situations, "It's-a her, Pinkie Pie". . . though I guess right now he can't.

After another minute, Mario was back to his usual form as he stops in the middle of the air before looking downwards and he drops right down to the ground with a thud landing on his belly. His eyes swirl around before he shakes his head and adjusts his hat to regain his composure with an annoyed look.

Mario: Mamma Mia. I am seriously a punching bag today, aren't-a I?

Applejack: Well. . . at least you're "our" punchin' bag, sugarcube.

Mario deadpans over at Applejack.

Mario: That doesn't-a really make me feel a lot better. . . I'm-a NOT a masochist.

Mario then turns over towards Rainbow Dash confused.

Mario: And wait. . . The Wonderbolts want ME. . . to race for them? W-We're-a talking here the same Wonderbolts, right? Not some other team that you got accepted to and tried to show off in?

Rainbow Dash: *rolls eyes* You guys, especially Spitfire, are not really going to let that go, are you?

Mario: No time soon, but I'd-a rather call you Dashie than Rainbow Crash. . . not my style.

Mario smiles at Rainbow Dash with a tip of his hat as the tomboy just slightly blushed in response.

Mario: Still, why me? I feel like Soarin or even Spitfire herself is perfect for being your partner in this.

Rainbow Dash: I. . . may have made one or two referrals on how you seem to almost be able to keep up with me.

Mario leans in towards her with a cocked eyebrow as Rainbow Dash sheepishly rubs the back of her head.

Rainbow Dash: Okay, a lot. But come on, babe. The Hero of Equestria competing in the biggest race known in Equestrian history?! AND you get to race with me for the Wonderbolts?!

She then wraps a foreleg around him to pull him in close.

Rainbow Dash: This would be an opportunity that I certainly wouldn't let go!

Mario: Hmmm. . .

Mario puts a finger to his chin as Rainbow did have a point. Spitfire has even given Mario chances to help the Wonderbolts many times and this one is certainly tough to turn down.

Twilight Sparkle: You know. . . I think you should go.

Mario turns back towards Twilight who was looking up into the air with a thoughtful expression.

Twilight Sparkle: This could be useful for our Flying Experiments!

Mario and Rainbow Dash deadpan at Twilight clearly not on the same page as them as she notices theirs and some others looking at her weirdly as she smiles nervously in response.

Twilight Sparkle: A-And also you get to race with your girlfriend. You may not have the most experience when it comes to flying in races with your Winged Hat rather than flying while fighting, but maybe Spitfire wants you there for a reason, Mario. I think going may be a great idea.

Rarity: I believe we can all agree to that as well, Mustache dear.

Starlight Glimmer: Only Mario can be nominated for a flight team like. . . "them?"

Rainbow Dash: Wonderbolts!!

Starlight Glimmer: *sighs* I feel like I'm gonna forget that name several times.

Rainbow Dash shoots her an annoyed look before looking back Mario and nudging him on the shoulder.

Rainbow Dash: So what do you say, babe? You wanna kill some thunder out there?

Mario then glares at all of them.

Mario: Wha! Seriously?! After all you guys put me through this morning?!

Before he jumps up into the air excitedly.

Mario: WAHOHO! ABSOLUTELY!

Hearing this also excites Rainbow Dash as she zooms out of the castle throne room along with Mario as the bandages that were on him, get left behind and fall to the ground. Applejack and Rarity look down at the bandages confused as now they're wondering if Mario was faking those injuries or not.

Rainbow Dash and Mario took their trip once again back towards Cloudsdale as they were at the Wonderbolts Academy and luckily for them, the new athletes don't show up for the season until several months later which means it was perfectly empty for any Pegasus to train on if they wanted to. Right now, Mario and Rainbow Dash were both standing up straight looking up into the air with serious looks as Spitfire was in her sergeant attire, marching up to both of them.

Spitfire: Alright newbies! Let's get things straight shall we? Now this competition may have gotten a lot more fun, but "fun" doesn't define how I want you to race out there! When you get out there, I want to see you race like champs, not chumps! I didn't sign you up for this, so you can hold wings with each other!

Spitfire then marches right besides Rainbow Dash as she glares into her eyes.

Spitfire: What's it gonna be, Crash? You're a Wonderbolt now, but being a Wonderbolt means nothing if it means you don't have your eyes on the prize! You gonna eat wind or eat dirt?! I bet it's dirt, aint it?!

Rainbow Dash: No, ma'am! I fly through the air, bustin' through clouds like I'm eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner! Even a dessert if I'm feeling lucky! Which means I'm ALWAYS lucky!

Spitfire: Hmmm.

Spitfire narrows her eyes at Rainbow Dash who doesn't even lose her composure. Seeing how Rainbow Dash is full of confidence makes Spitfire walk over towards Mario who looks into the air with a serious look avoiding eye contact to respect Spitfire.

Spitfire then glares at Mario's eyes before circling all around him to get a good look at his posture and when she circles around him once, she gets back in front of him to try and test him as well.

Spitfire: You look good. But looks ain't gonna mean nothin' when racing out there! How are you gonna play this out, hotshot?! Accept failure then look like a total weakling?!

Mario: No, ma'am! I have never accepted failure in life!

Spitfire: Does that mean you'll let obstacles stand in your way that make failure possible?!

Mario: No, ma'am! I can't-a blast through any kind of obstacle that you throw at me!

Spitfire: And I bet you're holding a lot of juice for any long distance flying! You gonna push yourself over the limit?!

Mario: No, ma'am!

Mario then realizes a second on what Spitfire asked as his eyes widen before he looks at Spitfire.

Mario: Wait, I mean. . . yes?

Spitfire then just quickly gets into Mario's face glaring daggers at him.

Spitfire: NEVER second guess yourself, newbie! *smirks* Besides, the correct answer is no because "the" limit is the only place you wanna go! Not above OR below! Got it?!

Mario quickly gets his serious look again as he looks up into the air.

Mario: Y-Yes, ma'am!

Spitfire then smirks as she takes off her shades to address Mario in a more calm tone than her serious demeanor.

Spitfire: That aside, Crash has filled me in on what exactly you're capable of, Mario. She says you two race so often that comparing both of your speeds, you're like a close second towards her.

Mario: Well. . . using my Winged Hat, yes, but she's-a proven time and time again that she's faster than me actually. That doesn't-a make me not love racing with her any less, but it's-a just a fact that I accept.

Rainbow Dash then flies over towards Mario and wraps a hoof around him.

Rainbow Dash: The only fact that I accept when you and I are racing is that I'm a lot more awesome than you. Though you take the silver medal since your awesomeness compared to mine is just a smidge below mine, but I would still count that as right beside my level.

Mario: *deadpans* That barely helps me with knowing just how I'm-a more viable to race than the other ones. . .

Spitfire: You've been in lots of death-defying situations right? Ursas, changelings, monsters, dragons. . .

Mario: Yeah, they were all fun, but still intense as I almost got myself killed in each situation.

Spitfire: You sure? Cause I clearly see that you're still in one piece.

Mario's eyes widened from this as he looked all over his body and Spitfire was right as even though he broke many sweats on battling Equestrian bad guys, he never really had a limb cut off or anything.

Spitfire: *smirks* You see? It's funny what some can actually do when they're underestimating themselves.

Spitfire then puts her shades back on before gesturing to the two ponies to follow her.

Spitfire: Follow me, you two. Let's actually see just how much we can compare your flight speeds.

Rainbow Dash and Mario looked at each other with different expressions as the mare had a smile while Mario had a confused look.

A little bit later, Spitfire, Mario, Rainbow Dash, and some of the other Wonderbolts were at the cloud racetrack on the cliffside of their headquarters in Canterlot. Mario and Rainbow Dash were both seen racing in circles around the race track as Mario was lagging right behind Rainbow Dash each lap that they were going through. Feeling like she's seen enough to get sufficient data, Spitfire walks up and calls out to them.

Spitfire: Alright, alright. Bring it back, newbies.

Hearing that, Mario and Rainbow Dash flew back down towards Spitfire as the coach looked towards the male of the pair.

Spitfire: Alright, Mario. Lesson one: You're not as fast as Crash. Accept that.

Rainbow Dash: *smirks* Heh, I've told him that many times.

Spitfire: *smirks* He's probably losing his hearing then.

Hearing that, Rainbow proceeds to yell into Mario's ear.

Rainbow Dash: SHE SAID YOU'RE NOT AS FAST AS-

Mario annoyingly covers Rainbow's mouth with his hand while glaring at her.

Mario: I heard her!

Spitfire: The Mustang Marathon isn't easy either. Because they're allowing a lot more teams and participants this time, they've extended the race to be starting in Ponyville, then Cloudsdale, and finally Canterlot. Then it's wash, rinse, repeat for 4 more times. In the state that you're currently in, you'd probably end up dead last, bumping into other competitors, or even fail to avoid any obstacle that you might crash into. . .

Mario: . . .Okie dokie, is there a part of this that gets a lot more positive than negative?

Spitfire: When it comes to racing, being mentally prepared is just as important as being physically prepared. Winners don't just race fast, they race smart too. You're familiar with each part of Equestria, so I don't see any reason that we can't teach you how to race properly through each of them.

Mario: Uh, yeah. *smiles* I mean, come on, h-how hard can it be?

Spitfire: That's the spirit! Hey, Crash! Move onto the other side of the racetrack, will ya?

Rainbow Dash salutes to this request as she flies into the air before going over towards the opposite of the track. Mario raises an eyebrow from this as he walks onto the track as well as the two face the race track clockwise, so that they would both be going in the same direction.

Spitfire: This is a freelance race which means no one qualifies, no one disqualifies. . . unless anypony has the nerve to break the rules that is. Though it'll be ultimately up to me to decide when you two are ready to compete since we've only got two and half weeks to train the both of you. Crash is clearly faster than you, Mario, so you'll be the one acting like you're starting dead last.

Mario: Wait, what?

Spitfire: I'll give you 10 laps to catch her.

Mario's jaw drops from this in shock.

Mario: You want me to go through this entire track and try to catch Dashie in only 10 laps?!

Spitfire: You want to race or not?!

Mario: Y-Yes! Of course I do!

Spitfire: Well, quit whining. . . and GO!

Spitfire then blows her whistle which immediately got Mario and Rainbow Dash to start flying at full speed instantly as they both kept going around and around the track, lap after lap. Unfortunately for Mario, he was barely even catching up to Rainbow Dash even though he was going at his best speed. And just as fast as it started, they were already done with 10 laps as Rainbow Dash finished first and Mario came up last about 5 seconds afterwards as he takes a deep breath.

Spitfire: Alright, alright. Looks like we've got some work to do. It's gonna take a lot more than trying to pass Crash to show me that you're ready to win this race, Mario!

Some of the other Wonderbolts like Soarin and Fleetfoot then lower down towards Spitfire.

Spitfire: I've known these guys and even taught them too many things about honing in their skills even as a Wonderbolt!

Spitfire then looks back up at her fellow Wonderbolts.

Spitfire: I trust that you guys will teach Mario to same things to the point where he'll be sleeping about it?

Soarin: *salutes* You got it, boss!

Spitfire: Alright then Wonderbolts. . . and newbies! Let's head to Ponyville so we can get through this afternoon of intense wind sprints!

All of the Wonderbolts fly off including Spitfire fly off as Rainbow Dash smiles up at them, but Mario walks up to Rainbow Dash with a nervous look on his face.

Mario: Are you sure about this?

Rainbow Dash: Hey, is that doubt I'm hearing? You were at the Wonderbolts Academy with me, remember? I don't see any reason for you to kick yourself out of this competition just because you're not a Wonderbolt like me.

Mario: That's-a not it. . . I mean, I won't-a lie, the Mustang Marathon has the perfect race course.

Rainbow Dash: I know ri-

Mario: For a "skilled" flyer! You've-a seen me when battling creatures, right? I'm-a good at flying, but mostly at the simple, quick-movement type of stuff.

Rainbow Dash: Well, I felt artistically that you were tired of repeating yourself all of the time.

Mario: Not really. I never minded it.

Rainbow Dash: Relax, babe. This is your ONE and probably ONLY opportunity to show the world just how doubly awesome the two of us can be! I'm not waiting another 15 years just for some rookie to come in and steal our spotlight. Neither should you. Where's all of this unsureness even coming from?

Mario: I'm-a not unsure that I'll-a be able to do it. It's-a more of. . . I don't-a want to embarrass you or any of the other Wonderbolts out there just because I'm-a slower than you. . .

Rainbow Dash just rolls her eyes from this and scoffs.

Rainbow Dash: Pfft! You're thinking too hard about it, babe! I know Spitfire said that you also need to be mentally prepared, but racing isn't all in there. . .

She said pointing and patting his forehead.

Rainbow Dash: Racing is in here!

She then points to his chest where his heart is and hearing that made Mario look up at Rainbow Dash with a bright smile.

Mario: Yeah, hahaha, you're-a right, Dashie. . . I've-a got power, strength, and speed. All of which can work in this race. So training should just be a breeze.

Rainbow Dash smirks at Mario before pecking him on the cheek.

Rainbow Dash: Let's go and prove that then.

Mario: Let's-a go.

Both her and Mario then proceed to fly off the racetrack so that they can follow the Wonderbolts to Ponyville and begin more of their training.

The couple, Spitfire, and Soarin were now standing right in front of the Everfree Forest as this apparently was one of the parts of the course for the Mustang Marathon. Both Soarin and Mario were looking straight ahead while Rainbow Dash and Spitfire stood on the sidelines to watch.

Soarin: Look alive, Mario. The reflexes are the first thing to know when racing in a competition. Which is why you've got to be ready to swerve through from tree to tree when going through the Everfree Forest. First, you gotta make your mind completely blank.

Mario: As opposed to. . .

Soarin: Then! When you're approaching the forest, you slow down and pick a path to stick to in a straightaway. It even helps to position yourself in a sideways position to make yourself look thinner. Try not to go in a zigzag though. It's better if you swerve around and through.

Mario raises an eyebrow at this.

Mario: I'm-a sorry, swerve what?

Soarin: Like this!

Soarin put his goggles on and immediately dashes forwards into the Everfree Forest as he wasn't even trying to go as fast as he could, but he still was going in a blur as he went through the Everfree Forest flawlessly as Spitfire smirked at Soarin showing off his demonstration. Due to the forest being thick to see through, Mario couldn't tell where he was, but he got another idea in his head as he looked at the other two mares.

Mario: Waahaa. I could probably do all of that using a Super Star.

Mario makes a question block appear above him as he jumps up and punches it. Out comes a Super Star Power Up as Mario grabs it and goes into his Starman Form, cueing the Super Star Theme. Mario then readies his Winged Hat and jumps up. Rainbow Dash and Spitfire gave each other looks of either being nervous or confused.

Rainbow Dash: (I'm no expert like Twilight, but I'm pretty sure that's not how that works.)

Mario then took off through the Everfree Forest at his Super Star speed as both Spitfire and Rainbow Dash saw him coming in a rainbow trail as he zips right past the both of them and into the forest, but just a moment later. . . they heard a crash as they both cringed and birds even started flying out from the trees as well.

Mario is then seen with half of his upper body stuck in a tree, reverting out his Starman Form as Soarin flies over to him with a slightly worried look.

Mario: *muffled* Don't-a anyone worry. . . The giant hole that was conveniently in this tree totally broke my fall. . .

Mario was now hovering in the air with Fleetfoot looking up towards Cloudsdale as the Wonderbolts mare nudged him on the shoulder with a smirk.

Fleetfoot: You may think transitioning from one location to another is simple, but there's a neat trick that may help ya get there much faster than you think. You see, loop-de-loops are easy going downwards or even just straight ahead, but trying to pick up speed while gaining altitude is a different story. Once you're in the air, you've got to make your Winged Hat back off for a second, then you burst through strong!

Mario: Are you sure that's-a gonna work?

Fleetfoot: It's like you're on a rollercoaster ride! Check this out!

Fleetfoot then gives a demonstration herself as she flies upwards into the air then quickly goes upside down and the camera cuts to her wings which stop flapping for a second before she quickly flaps them hard again to gain a burst of speed sending her upwards with a small boost. She quickly flies past Rainbow Dash and Spitfire who both smile at her successful tactic.

Mario however had other ideas as he just gives a cocky smile upwards.

Mario: Oh, I got this! No problem!

Mario flies upwards at full speed and doesn't even attempt to slow himself down in a loop, but because he was going so fast, he ended up losing control of his flight as he was tumbling up in the air while screaming going at full force. Rainbow Dash, Spitfire, and Fleetfoot see this with widened eyes as they fly upwards to avoid Mario before they just watch him go right past them and end up suddenly going back down towards the ground.

Spitfire: . . .Well, that's one way to do it.

Now the crew were in the middle of Canterlot with Misty Fly as both her and Mario were looking straight down towards a straight road that had barely anypony around as luckily during this time of the afternoon, ponies weren't busy. Misty Fly smirks down at Mario while crossing her forelegs.

Misty Fly: I've heard that you've covered common ground around these parts before, Mario. Hate to break it to you though, the straightaway flying is only the easy part. Sometimes you have to just let the flyers do the work for ya by trailing behind them.

Mario: And why would I do that?

Misty Fly: You see, we Wonderbolts have a rule when it comes to flying at our headquarters. Always check both ways before crossing the runway. Same thing can be applied here. You see those intersections? You never know when some racers will take some other path and buzz right into you.

Mario: But I'm-a racing! When will I even have time to look both ways when I come up to an intersection?!

Misty Fly: Heh, my point exactly on letting the racers do the work for you.

She puts on her goggles and looks upwards to salute to two of her Wonderbolt members as they both fly down at Mario's level before they quickly fly ahead of him. When they were a couple of meters ahead, Misty Fly slowed herself down to get behind the other two Wonderbolts as one of them went right on an intersection, but Misty Fly didn't bother to follow them as she stayed with the one she was right behind.

She, along with the other flyers that she was following then turned left at an intersection ahead. Mario stared at this demonstration with a raised eyebrow before looking at Rainbow Dash and Spitfire with a bored look.

Mario: You know, I think I'll-a just choose my own path. . . WAY faster that way if you ask me!

Mario then flies straight ahead as Rainbow Dash and Spitfire watch him go with the former getting a worried look while the latter raises an eyebrow. He took some twists and turns around the city not even worried one bit about running into Misty Fly by accident as he doubted that there would be a chance of that happening.

However, when he was getting ready to take his fifth turn around a building. . . he wasn't able to see Misty Fly coming at all as he crashed right into her along with her teammate, sending them both tumbling across the air. Off screen, a large thud was then heard as Mario's predicament. . .

Was to end up inside of a trash can. He sticks his head up out of the waste while swirling his eyes around as he looks messy and smelly now. He shakes his head to get a banana peel off of his hat before looking upwards to see Rainbow Dash and Spitfire had caught up with them. Rainbow sees Mario in the trash can as she flies down to him worried.

Rainbow Dash: Mario, are you okay?

Mario: *deadpans* Mario's okay. . .

He then looks up to see Misty Fly and some of the other Wonderbolts lower down towards him with a smirk.

Misty Fly: Heh, wow. I can really see now how he's your boyfriend, Crash. He's making this almost as entertaining as when you showed up for your first day.

The other Wonderbolts laugh from this as Mario glares up at them before looking down disappointed while Rainbow Dash felt bad for Mario. Spitfire then blows her whistle to get everyone's attention as they all face towards her.

Spitfire: Alright, Wonderbolts! We've still got some more training to do of our own, so let's move it!

The Wonderbolts salute to this before they all fly off. Spitfire then just walks up to Mario who was still in the trash can.

Spitfire: You're not breaking any bones, so I think we can both agree that that's progress and that you're not fragile at all to race through this. You can buck up and be ready to go through another drill of ours in five.

Mario groans from hearing this as he jumps out of the trash can and gets a really annoyed look on his face.

Mario: Well, you know what I think that I can agree with?! That I'll-a never be ready for this! It's easy when you're-a testing my flight speed, strength, or my recovery using the Dizzitron, but that doesn't-a make me an expert at. . . crazy flying!

Spitfire and Rainbow's eyes widen from this as Mario's continues his little rant.

Mario: I don't-a want to race in something if it means that somepony on the same team as me is more than capable of winning it! It doesn't-a make sense to just put me on the reserve list just because I'm-a, well, Mario, Dash's boyfriend, or even barely even able to keep up with her! Besides, there can only be one winner, right? Sorry, guys. I keep telling you that you've-a got the wrong guy for the job. The Hero of Equestria can't-a do absolutely everything in Equestria.

Mario then stomps off in frustration as Spitfire and Rainbow Dash watch him walk away with surprised looks. Rainbow was the most surprised as Mario's never shown to be unmotivated to do things that he liked doing with her.

Rainbow Dash: So what do we do now?

Spitfire just looks at Rainbow Dash while adjusting her shades on her face.

Spitfire: You're asking me? *scoffs* You're the newbie here Crash AND you've known him longer than I have. Not my problem if he doesn't want to race.

She then walks off as Rainbow Dash looks back in the direction of where Mario stormed off before putting a hoof to her chin.

It was now nighttime in Cloudsdale as Mario could be seen sitting on top of one of the cloud buildings looking down over the Wonderbolts Academy with a downtrodden look on his face. He rests his hand on his chin before he hears somepony flying down towards him as he looks behind himself to see none other than Rainbow Dash as she walks on towards him.

Rainbow Dash: You weren't in Ponyville, so I kinda thought that I might find you here.

Mario: *rolls eyes* Let me guess. . . you're-a here to try and give me a pep talk?

Rainbow Dash: Heh, well duh! I seem to miscount the times you gave ME a pep talk when I was feeling down. Starting off with. . . what makes you feel like you're incapable of doing this? You trained your whole life to fight monsters which is something I'm kind of good at too. . . I'll even admit that I wish I was more awesome than you at doing that.

Mario: *sighs* I kind of just. . . said that out of frustration. . . I know that I can do this and I don't-a see a reason for me to quit, but I still don't-a get it. . . Why me? I've-a been by your side the whole time to see YOU fulfill your lifelong dream of becoming a Wonderbolt yourself, but not to drag me into your lifelong career. If you're-a better than me at something then shouldn't-a you just take the opportunity to race alone or have another Wonderbolt as a partner?

Rainbow Dash just chuckles before she smirks while crossing her hooves.

Rainbow Dash: I'm glad to know that you think that I'm 20% cooler than you. . .

Mario: At skilled flying. . . not everything. . .

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, yeah. But I mean come on. You trained with Shining Armor and Cadance to become a better racer. How is this any different?

Mario: I had no other choice in that situation. Right here, I feel like I'm being obligated to race when there are much better candidates like you who know the definition of speed. If someone asked any seven of us to try and take an IQ test then we would choose Twilight obviously.

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, but that doesn't mean that all of our IQ is low. . . it just means that we're all different. Besides, there's no real "definitions" of speed. There's no zap speed, quick speed, or even light speed. . . okay well maybe that last one is real, but you get the point of what I'm saying.

???: *chuckles sinisterly* I prefer my kind of speed, "blazing fast."

Both of the couple's eyes widen from hearing this voice as it sounded way too familiar to them. They looked behind themselves to see that the pony responsible for saying this out loud was none other than Rainbow Dash's rival from the Wonderbolts Academy. . . Lightning Dust.

The Pegasus steps over towards them wearing a cocky smirk on her face as both Rainbow Dash and Mario get back up on his legs before glaring at Lightning Dust as it was obvious that from their last encounter, they were definitely not happy to see her just show up out of nowhere.

Rainbow Dash & Mario: Lightning Dust?!

Rainbow Dash: What are you doing here?

Lightning Dust: I figured that I might just swing by to visit the academy at night since you know. . .

She then frowns at Rainbow Dash and Mario.

Lightning Dust: It's a constant reminder of how you two got me kicked out.

Mario: You did that to yourself!

Lightning Dust: *rolls eyes* Suure, pin the responsibility on the injured party. Typical. *sigh* Not like it matters, anyway. Word on the street is the Mustang Marathon is approaching, and it's a perfect time for me to show all the moves I could've flaunted had it not been for you two costing me my position.

Rainbow Dash: Pfft. You're gonna race alone? Without a team? Ha, you don't even stand a chance!

Lightning Dust: *smirks* Who said I was alone?

Lightning Dust then lets out a whistle behind her. . . three Pegasi flew upwards which surprised both Mario and Rainbow Dash and not just that, they all looked to be stallions. Three familiar stallions at that as when they lowered down to the ground, they are revealed to be Rainbow's former bullies from both her flight camp when she was young and at the Best Young Flyer's Competition, Hoops, Dumb-Bell, and Score.

Dumb-Bell: Well, well, well, if it isn't the infamous Rainbow Crash!

Rainbow Dash: Oh, come on! Not you guys again!

Mario: Mamma Mia, did you guys forget to take your meds this morning? You're-a racing in the Mustang Marathon with Lightning Dust of all ponies?! This mare's a deranged sociopath!

Lightning Dust puts a hoof to her chest mocking a little bit of sadness.

Lightning Dust: Am I, Mario? *mocks* Oh, you're-a so cunning. I'm-a really upset. Actually, I think I'm-a gonna go cry. Then, I'll-a be just like your little tomboy friend.

Rainbow Dash: OH YOU–

He puts a hand in front of Rainbow, stopping her from approaching Lightning Dust further.

Mario: Don't-a even. You know it's-a not worth it.

Dumb-Bell: It don't matter what path Lightning Dust takes, we respect her style, bro. She's taught us so much stuff that we've never even heard of before.

Score: So as a way to pay our respects, we wanted to race with her in the Mustang Marathon since it's allowed now.

Rainbow Dash: If you guys recall, I'm the mare that performed a Sonic Rainboom, so. . . *smirks* your chances of mopping the floor with us are. . . pretty down in the negatives.

She said lowering her hoof just right below the ground. Lightning Dust just shakes her head with the same smirk on Rainbow's face.

Lightning Dust: For the record, I was the one leading you during your time at the academy. You're nothing more than a wingpony.

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, up until the moment you decided to put my friends at risk!

Lightning Dust: Stop being so melodramatic; they all survived that, it's nothing to get worked up over. Plus, I haven't thrown anypony else in the face of danger since, so let it go, will you? That said, I did warn these guys about the dangers of the marathon this year, but I can guarantee that this'll be a breeze with me around.

Lightning Dust then sidles up right next to Mario with a half-lidded smirk as she throws a foreleg around him before pulling him close cheek to cheek as Mario just glares at Lightning Dust getting into his personal space.

Lightning Dust: You know, the team could use a fourth~ I could even show you some moves that. . . not everypony can get a glimpse of~

She wiggles her eyebrows at the end of this and all Mario could react with a disgusted and uncomfortable look with his mouth hanging open and Lightning Dust used one of her hooves to just close his mouth back shut. Rainbow Dash growls in anger from this as she flies over and shoves Lightning Dust off of Mario before pulling her boyfriend towards her.

Rainbow Dash: Hey! Keep your cold, psychotic hooves off of my man! I ain't gonna let you provoke him to join your ranks!

Lightning Dust: Well, excuuuse me. It ain't my fault you brain's as slow as your speed.

Lightning Dust along with the three other Pegasus stallions laugh from this as Mario and Rainbow Dash just look at each other as they can both agree that they disapprove of these ponies a lot.

Lightning Dust: Sorry, sorry, it's just that you two on a team. . .I couldn't describe that as fast.

Rainbow Dash then zips right in front of Lightning Dust's face as she definitely struck a nerve on Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow Dash: You're saying that "neither" of us seem fast to you?!

Lightning Dust: Not by a longshot, no.

Hoops: Yeah, but she was the only pony that ever did a Sonic Rainboom, so–

Dumb-Bell elbows him to stay quiet, but Lightning Dust already had a plan to counter that argument.

Lightning Dust: Yeah, the big rainbow bang that was an urban legend. You boys ever hear of a little something called "special effects"?

Mario; The only thing "special" about those effects is that they were legit! I was there when it happened!

Lightning Dust: *chuckles* Oh, come to your senses, Mario. The only reason you'd ever support a mare like Dash is because you don't have the gall to race.

Mario: *growls* I'm-a NOT scared, and there's-a nothing I need to do to prove that. I don't-a have to race if I don't-a want to.

Lightning Dust: Yeah, yeah, suurre. . .I guess you're not afraid to be seen as cannon fodder in the eyes of thousands of ponies, huh? I mean, you're not even in the Wonderbolts like your tomboy here, so why would they bother with you to begin with?

Mario's eyes widen from this as that was enough to tell Lightning Dust that she was indeed correct.

Lightning Dust: I figured as much. Face reality, you two. Sonic Rainbooms, academy records, getting a Wonderbolt position. . .they're all something to be proud of, but none of that compares to the knowledge of always having competition to knock you down no matter what. In a few weeks, every part of Equestria that we'll be racing in is gonna be watching, and when the last lap runs it's course. . .

She then leans into Rainbow Dash's face with a nasty grin on her face.

Lightning Dust: I'm gonna be the one coming out on top~

Rainbow Dash just narrows her eyes into Lightning Dust's face before her rival just flies back up into the air and gestures for Hoops, Score, and Dumb-Bell to follow her.

Lightning Dust: Alright, boys, let's ditch these two lovebirds to their mediocre training. Who's down to catch some Z's before we break our wings again tomorrow?

Hoops: Heck yeah!

Score: *salutes* Whatever you say, boss!

Score and Hoops fly after her while Dumb-Bell hovers up into the air before looking back down at Mario and Rainbow Dash.

Dumb-Bell: See ya, wouldn't wanna be ya, Crash!

He then goes to catch up with the rest of the group as Rainbow Dash glares after them while Mario looks down towards the ground with his eyes closed.

Rainbow Dash: Nopony can call me that except the Wonderbolts!

Rainbow Dash then looks over towards Mario who she sees looking down and she thinks that Lightning Dust's words got to his head as she pats him on the back.

Rainbow Dash: Mario? Oh, come on, babe! I thought you had nerves of steel! You're seriously gonna let Lightning Dust of all ponies get under your skin?!

Mario: No. . . That's-a not it, Dash. . .

Rainbow Dash: Huh?

Mario then raises his head to look at Rainbow Dash with a determined glare as the quick and unexpected change of mood surprised her.

Mario: Tell Spitfire and the others that I'm-a all in on the race now! Because of Lightning Dust, I now want to get into the Mustang Marathon no questions asked!

Rainbow Dash: What? I thought you said that you had nothing to prove. You don't need to race just to prove Lightning Dust wrong.

Mario: No! This isn't-a about me and I'm-a not doing this for me! Not for me, but for the Wonderbolts as they gave me an opportunity to show them just how good of a pair that we can be flying together and represent Equestria's greatest flyers! Not for me, but for our friends as I know that they'll count on us for just about anything! Not for me, but for anypony else in this world, who has ever been bullied, picked on, or even dreamed of becoming a Wonderbolt! And last but not least. . .

He then grabs Rainbow Dash's shoulders surprising her before pulling her up to his face.

Mario: I'm-a doing this for you! Because MAMMA MIA do I hate it when ponies try to talk me or any of my girlfriends down on what they're-a really capable of!

Mario then lets go of Rainbow Dash who continues to look at him surprised.

Mario: So from now on, let's-a train the Wonderbolts way instead of trying to train my way.

Rainbow's face then curls up into a big grin as she flies over to give Mario a kiss on the cheek before giving him a playful punch onto his chest.

Rainbow Dash: Ha ha! I knew that the more awesome part of my Mustache was in there somewhere! Just had to catch where it was hiding, huh?

Mario: Haha, starting tomorrow when we're doing laps, I'll-a be the one who will be catching YOU.

Rainbow Dash: *smirks* You are SO on!

Mario: Waahaa!

The next day, Mario and Rainbow Dash were back at the racetrack along with the other Wonderbolts as the two were ready to get into their positions as Rainbow Dash and Mario fist/hoof bumped each other before Rainbow Dash flew to the opposite side of the track. Spitfire then marched up to Mario who smiled at her.

Spitfire: *smirks* Alright, look who finally decided to show up. A part of me didn't think you were gonna come back, but I knew Crash wasn't going to let that happen. I heard you two ran into the pony that gave you problems back at the academy too. So Lightning Dust is entering the race too, huh?

Mario: Yeah, but I'm-a not going to let her talk me or Rainbow Dash down like we haven't-a even accomplished anything! Our will to even practice is already an accomplishment and there's-a more now that I want to pursue! Like winning the race for my girlfriend along the Wonderbolts!

Spitfire: If that's how it is then I'm not even going to say you're ready until you even barely get behind Crash! You get it, newbie?!

Mario: Yes, ma'am!

Spitfire: You ready to kill or make thunder?!

Mario then looks straight ahead on the track as he crouches down while readying his Winged Hat.

Mario: One, ready is my middle name! Two, Dash and I are more than enough to even make thunder! Let's-a go!

Spitfire: In that case. . . GO!

Spitfire blows her whistle as the camera splits to show Mario's blue eyes and Rainbow Dash's magenta eyes as they both glare down before both camera shots cut to their wings and Winged Hat as they start flapping before they both took off in a burst of speed. They raced around the track in 10 laps just like Spitfire instructed and even though he had his little confidence boost, Mario was still lagging a lot behind Rainbow Dash as she finished a quick 5 seconds before he did.

Mario stops to catch his breath as he looks over towards Spitfire who just shakes her head disapprovingly and that told Mario that he's definitely got some more work to do.

They were in the city again with Misty Fly as Mario tries drafting right behind her to stay on her path. However, it looks like she wasn't going to make this easy for Mario at all as she flies straight towards a building wall and takes a hard right at the last second which Mario wasn't prepared for as he crashes flat right into the building and both Rainbow Dash and Spitfire cringe from the impact.

Mario was then in the skies where he was trying to learn Fleetfoot's loop de loop technique as he tries doing it himself by slowing himself down, but he apparently did it a little bit too early as he ended up falling straight downwards instead.

Mario was then seen talking with Soarin right in front of the Everfree Forest as both him and Mario smiled and nodded at each other before they both crouched down before blasting themselves off into the Everfree Forest, but this time Mario took Soarin's advice and slowed down his flight in order to easily swerve around each tree.

This time, Mario didn't bump or crash into any trees as when they both turned around and exited back out from where they started, they both landed on the ground and Mario looked at Rainbow Dash and Spitfire as they both smiled while the latter nodded in approval that Mario was slowly improving.

They were back in the racetrack again as Mario was racing to try and catch up to Rainbow Dash again. On the sidelines, Spitfire yelled out at Mario to try harder as he kept pushing himself to catch up to his speedy girlfriend, but he barely improved in this one as while he was getting closer, he was still a little too far behind her.

They finished another ten laps around the track and Mario was sweating and still not enough to try and catch up to Rainbow Dash as Spitfire looked at a stopwatch that she was carrying and she shakes her head making Mario stomp his foot in frustration.

He looks up and see Rainbow Dash hovering up in the air with her hooves behind her head in a relaxed position as she fake yawns before looking back down at Mario and winking at him. Mario just deadpans back up at her as he knows that Rainbow Dash is only doing that to taunt him.

They were back in Canterlot once more to do the drafting drills and while Mario wasn't crashing into any buildings this time, he was still struggling to stay on course with Misty Fly as she kept trying to do the same tactic over and over again to try and get Mario off of her tail.

The screen then splits into two once more to show Rainbow Dash and Mario's Cutie Marks on their rump and hat before it pans downwards to show theirselves as the abrasive Pegasus paws the ground a couple of times while the mustachioed human adjust his Winged Hat.

The camera then pans up to their faces to show them looking ahead with different looks of pure determination as Rainbow Dash spreads her wings out and Mario gets in a running position before going through the racing drill once more on the racetrack.

However, Mario got an idea in his head as he nods to himself as puts his arms right behind him to increase his speed which was working as he was starting to catch up more towards Rainbow Dash which Spitfire noticed with surprise.

While Rainbow Dash finished first again in this mini race, Mario was right behind her tail as when Rainbow Dash stopped, Mario bumped right into her as they both went tumbling before they both landed on top of each other as they both looked at each other before laughing.

Back at the loop-de-loop drill, Mario was following Fleetfoot's example once more as he loops around in the air and he slowed down the pace of his Winged Hat when he was upside down perfectly this time as he started them back up before he comes down and takes off with a huge burst of speed that caused a gust of speed to blow in Spitfire, Rainbow, and Fleetfoot's faces as they all looked up at Mario with different looks of either excitement or approval.

The drafting drill was going a lot more smoothly as well as Mario was able to keep up with Misty Fly no matter what tricks she tried to pull on her and eventually he even ended up passing her which surprised her for a second, but she just stares off at Mario with a smirk.

We're back at the racetrack one last time as Spitfire blew her whistle and the two trainees were already off to race once more as Mario and Rainbow Dash had fierce smiles on their faces.

Halfway through the mock race, Mario ended up right behind Rainbow Dash which she noticed, but she wasn't about to let her boyfriend pass her as she made as much attempts as she can to block his path.

However, Rainbow Dash didn't notice a path that she opened up for Mario as he flew right above her which shocked her. Mario gave her a brave smile before he finally was flying side by side with her as Rainbow Dash smirked back up at him. Spitfire sees them neck to neck with each other as she smirks looking up from her stopwatch.

When they both were on their tenth lap, they smirk at each other before boosting forward leaving a red and a rainbow trail behind them as they flew upwards past the finish line while pumping their hooves up into the air in opposite directions while letting out fierce smiles.

With their mock race being done, Mario and Rainbow Dash wiped some of the sweat off of their foreheads as they both know that while all of that training was intense, it was definitely worth all of the fun of doing it together.

Mario: Yeah. Hahaha. Awesome enough for ya?

Rainbow Dash: Eh, It's a start. . .

They both then heard Spitfire whistle up at them as they both look down towards her.

Spitfire: Hey, newbies! Over here!

They both look at each other with eager smiles thinking Spitfire might commend them for their hard work and effort as they fly down to her. When they landed right in front of her, Mario walks up to her.

Mario: So, you think we're ready now?

Spitfire: Do I "think" you're ready?!

She then punches Mario hard on his arm which he indeed felt as he rubbed it with a hand.

Mario: Ow! Okay, is that a yes or a no?

Spitfire: Let me tell you what I "know". I know you're one of the fastest and most powerful people in Equestria!

She then gets into Mario's face with a deep glare.

Spitfire: I know you and Crash just practiced harder than anypony else that I've ever seen!

She then punches her face into his shrinking Mario down below a little bit.

Spitfire: And I KNOW you now know the course like the back of your hat!

Mario didn't know what to respond to this with other than silence as he eyes Rainbow Dash behind him who just shrugs her shoulders feeling just as confused as him. Spitfire then smiles as she backs herself from Mario before standing back up straight.

Spitfire: Of course there are times in a race or competition when things can go sideways.

Fleetfoot: Or upside down.

Spitfire: But all of YOUR planning means squat!

Mario: Okie dokie, so what do I do then?

Spitfire: The only thing you can do out there. . . YOU RACE! You get me?!

Mario and Rainbow Dash look at each other before standing up straight before saluting with their hand and foreleg.

Mario & Rainbow Dash: Y-Yes, ma'am!!

Mario then leans in to whisper to Rainbow Dash.

Mario: *whispers* We are ready though. . . right?

Rainbow Dash: *whispers* Oh, yeah. I'm taking it as a yes.

Two weeks later. . .

Apparently, the Wonderbolts weren't kidding when they said that all of Equestria is going to see this race and some from around the world are even competing as well like dragons and griffons. Cities have been cleared out so that the racers could fly on the course. Crowds from Cloudsdale, Ponyville, and Canterlot have even been anticipating this race as well as ponies could be seen cheering or chattering on the sidelines.

We are now in Canterlot where the start of the race was being held as lots of the competitors could be seen in the middle of the road walking towards the starting line as some of them were geared up wearing jackets, goggles, or bodysuits. Mario and Rainbow Dash could be amongst these ponies as both of them were wearing goggles knowing that the wind will definitely get into their eyes. Rainbow Dash looked excited while Mario looked around with awe on his face.

Mario: Mamma Mia. . . All of Equestria really is here to see this thing. . .

Rainbow Dash: *chuckles* I know. Awesome, right? They might as well have these kinds of races every year so that I can show them all at least one Sonic Rainboom a year.

Mario: Don't-a get too far ahead of yourself. Why do I get the feeling that I'm-a partially the reason that all of these ponies are even here in the first place?

Rainbow Dash: Tch! You don't need to say it like it's your fault. It's not like you invited them here. You just accepted the Wonderbolts invitation to race in probably one of the biggest competitions in Equestria with me and you're the only alicorn prince that Equestria has ever known to exist now in front of thousands of ponies around.

Mario: Yep. . . That's-a why. . . This was a lot more unnerving when it was just Ponyville watching me race a racer. . .

Pinkie Pie: That rhymed!!

Both of them look over to the side to see that it was of course Pinkie Pie who shouted this out as she was hopping up and down excitedly behind a fence along with Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Starlight Glimmer, The Cutie Mark Crusaders, and Spike. Both Mario and Rainbow Dash smiled seeing their friends here to watch them race.

Mario: Well, at least we'll-a know that we'll-a be happy to know that specific ponies that we know will be watching us the whole time.

Both of them walked over to the fence seeing how they've got a little bit of time to talk to their friends before they have to get into their spots to get ready to race.

Rainbow Dash: Hey, guys!

Applejack: I take you ain't gonna need any extra help from anypony this time~?

She said referring to how during her first show, Rainbow Dash got Scootaloo to try and help her showboat in front of everypony which backfired horribly. Rainbow Dash rolls her eyes playfully from this before throwing a foreleg around Mario.

Rainbow Dash: Ha ha. . . No way. The only help that I'll need is being beside this guy the whole time to see if he can keep up with me.

Mario: I pretty much barely can at this point from our training together.

Rarity: You two are simply going to do fabulous out there. We'll all be over here cheering our favorite racers on.

Pinkie Pie: I can't wait any second longer! . . .Actually, I can!! Where's the cotton candy?!

Pinkie Pie jumps up and dashes away in a blur as Spike stares off at her annoyed.

Spike: If there is cotton candy, leave me out of it.

Suddenly, a pink hoof reaches into view and wraps around Spike's body which he notices with an annoyed look on his face.

Spike: . . .And I'm in it.

He is then pulled away by the overly-excited pink mare as all Mario could react to this is with a chuckle while shaking his head at Pinkie's antics.

Starlight Glimmer: Good luck out there, you two.

Fluttershy: And be really careful. . . After Rainbow Dash's last performance, I'm a little anxious something will happen to you both here too. . .

Rainbow Dash: We've got this! No pressure at all. Right, babe?

Mario just looks at Rainbow Dash for a second before nodding in agreement. He was a lot more quiet than usual as while he's had many ponies see him, it was more of his duties as a hero and prince rather than competing in an event.

The event announcer then spoke as it was none other than Madden, the same stallion who was the announcer for the Best Young Flyer's Competition where Rainbow Dash performed her Sonic Rainboom and saved Rarity.

Madden: Fillies and gentlecolts, welcome to what has become one of the most anticipated competitions in all of Equestria! Please rise as we welcome all of our beloved princesses!

Hearing this made Mario's eyes widen as the crowds cheers intensifies and he along with all of the others turn up towards a direction to see Twilight, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and Princess Cadance who was carrying Flurry Heart on four thrones elevated above the course and crowd. Shining Armor and other members of the Royal Guard were right beside them as they salute with respect.

Twilight looks down towards Mario and Rainbow Dash as the Princess of Friendship waves down to her two friends competing as Mario smiles and waves back while Rainbow Dash hoof bumps the air back towards her.

Madden: And let's certainly not forget our one and only royal prince and human in Equestria, Mario who is one of our contestants representing the Wonderbolts!

Everypony around Canterlot then started cheering for Mario as he stares out at all of the attention on him in shock before Rainbow Dash wraps a wing around his shoulders and pulls him in close as Rainbow Dash smirked at him before waving out the crowd and Mario did the same with a nervous smile. Flurry Heart, who was in Cadance's hooves babbles as she sees Mario while reaching both her tiny hooves out.

Princess Cadance: *giggles* That's right, Flurry. That's your Uncle Mustache down there.

Princess Celestia: It is still rather surprising to see him actually take an extra step to actually compete in order to support the Wonderbolts.

Princess Luna: We never knew he had this much of a competitive spirit.

Twilight Sparkle: Well, it's not just for the Wonderbolts. He's also in the race for Rainbow Dash who became a Wonderbolt not too long ago. Knowing those two, they should make a pretty good team and won't see failure as an option at all.

Princess Cadance: I don't see any sort of doubt to that at all.

Shining Armor: Neither do I. Let's just hope that they don't do anything too hasty out there.

Twilight Sparkle: *smirks* Mario? Rainbow Dash? . . .I think the word "hasty" is what makes them Mario and Rainbow Dash.

All of them chuckle from this before they all heard a swoosh in the air. They then look up to see most of the Wonderbolts fly over Canterlot leaving a trail of smoke behind and as they flew by Mario takes a better look and notices that a certain leader of theirs is missing.

Mario: Wait. . . Aren't-a they missing one?

Spitfire: Hey, newbies! Over here!

They both turn to see Spitfire over at a small section right near the course as she was still in her coach attire with towels and water bottles set up right beside her. Mario and Rainbow Dash walk over towards her as she smirks at both of them.

Mario: Why aren't-a you up there flying with them?

Spitfire: They needed somepony to supervise for the pit crew. On every lap or if any accidents happen, you guys are permitted to rest up for about 3 minutes so that way you can catch your breath and take a small break.

Mario: Phew. Well, that's-a convenient. I don't-a think I would even want to participate any further if it meant that I had to fly nonstop.

The rest of the Wonderbolts then lower to drop and land right Spitfire as they all take their goggles off while smiling at Mario and Rainbow Dash.

Fleetfoot: Give it your best out there, Crash.

Misty Fly: Show them rookie moves are the best moves out there, Mario.

Soarin: Good luck out there, you two.

Rainbow Dash: Heh, like we'll need it.

Lightning Dust: Oh, you'll need it alright.

Hearing her voice was enough to give annoyed looks to both Mario and Rainbow Dash as they turn to see Lightning Dust with goggles on her head. . . along with some saddlebags around her which confused Mario. Spitfire wasn't happy to see Lightning Dust either, but all she does adjusts her shades with a frown.

Spitfire: I'll just leave this kind of business to you two.

She says as she takes a step back into the pit leaving Mario and Rainbow Dash on the road to confront Lightning Dust as the mare approaches them.

Lightning Dust: I see you actually DID become a full-fledged Wonderbolt, Dash. Was kind of debatable in my head for a while, but hey, seeing is believing.

Rainbow Dash: Don't. . . patronize me!

Lightning Dust: How are the guests of honor doing today, anyways?

Mario: Very good thank you very much. Now we would appreciate it if-

She then walks up right in front of Mario and attempts to flirt with him again.

Lightning Dust: You know I still can't believe that I get to race THE Hero of Equestria doing such daredevilish acts right in front of me~

Mario: *rolls eyes* Ugh! What are you talking about?

Lightning Dust: Oh, right. Heh. I should've been more specific.

She then gets up into Mario's face to the point where their noses were touching surprising Mario as a blush grew on his face.

Lightning Dust: I mean you and I both know the whole tough guy mechanic that you have with just about anything shows how much you want to dazzle me into your little group of mares~

Mario's jaw hit the floor from this in pure disgust as he makes a warp pipe appear and he and Rainbow Dash jump into it to warp away from Lighting Dust surprising her as he warped them right near the starting line as Mario quickly gets beside Rainbow Dash while looking back towards Lightning Dust still creeped out from her flirting with him.

Mario: Yah! I may have a herd with nine mares, but she is definitely one mare I ain't-a taking any lip from!

Rainbow Dash: I bet this is all part of her plan to try and get into your head, babe. We don't have anything to prove to her, but if she really wants us to prove that we're faster than her then I'm more than willing to accept her challenge!

Madden: All creatures who are racing! Please approach the starting line by your designated team!

Mario and Rainbow Dash hear this as they both looked at each other and nodded as they go up towards the starting as luckily for them, they were the team that was in front. Lightning Dust, Hoops, Score, and Dumb-Bell however were right behind them which they tried to not pay any attention too. Lightning Dust notices this with a smirk on her face.

Lightning Dust: (You two better fly fast. . . because "I" want to be the one to beat either of you!)

A Pegasus pony carrying a green flag in her mouth then hovers up a few levels upwards above the competitors as they all see this meaning that it's time to get ready. Mario and Rainbow Dash put on their goggles and so do Lightning Dust and her team as all but Mario crouch towards the ground while spreading their wings out. Mario gets a fierce look as he adjusts his Winged Hat and get into his own crouching position.

Some unicorns behind them were also doing the same thing while some others were looking towards Earth ponies trying to help with out with something.

Madden: On your marks. . .

Mario closes his eyes and takes a deep breath before opening them back up.

Madden: Get set. . .

Rainbow Dash puts on the fiercest look that she can muster as she flaps her wings once. Everypony around was anticipating with eagerness on how this race will start and who will take the early lead as it made some of them stand up on their hind legs. After a second longer, the Pegasus holding the flag waves it when signals. . .

Madden: GO!

And just like that, Mario and everypony that was on the racetrack took off at the fastest speed that they could burst off with. Ponies were speeding right by the patrons whether it'd be by wings or levitation. The amount of speed even caused a huge gust of wind to be blown back in ponies' faces to which they either hold onto their hats or cheer with pure excitement on the speed of the racers.

Up ahead, Mario and the ponies were zooming down through Canterlot as throughout all of the competitors, Mario, Rainbow Dash, and Lightning Dust were quickly able to take back the leads as Mario ended up neck to neck with Lightning Dust while Rainbow Dash while flying slightly ahead of the two. They fly around the buildings of Canterlot as Mario used Misty Fly's technique in picking a line behind Rainbow Dash and sticking to it.

They flew right through the city in no time flat as the race took them through the tunnel in which the Ponyville Express uses to take to its destination to Canterlot. Luckily, all train transportations have been canceled prior to the race starting. They were all almost to Ponyville as Mario heart was beating a little fast due to some anxiety that was building up in him. However, he shakes his head to clear his mind before getting his head back in the game.

Mario: (Alright. . . Let's-a go!)

Back in Canterlot, about six unicorns walked onto part of the sidelines before they activated their horns and it projected a three large see-through screens that show the locations of Canterlot, Ponyville, and Cloudsdale to show where the racers are.

Madden: It looks like the racers have made such an excellent start to the race as they are now speeding into Ponyville!

Speaking of which, Mario, Rainbow Dash, and Lightning Dust were still the three leaders and something turns on in Mario's mind as he looks towards Lightning Dust.

Mario: Hey, Lightning.

Lightning Dust: Yeah, what?

Mario: I thought that this was supposed to be a fair race for all pony races, but the Earth ponies have no source of flight at all! What's-a up? Those guys don't-a even have wings.

Lightning Dust: Oh, yeah? Look close.

Mario: Huh??

Mario looks behind himself to see that far behind them, unicorns were levitating themselves to try and keep up which was already a struggle for them, but when Mario notices the Earth ponies flying. . . he sees that they had the same butterfly wings that they gave Rarity during the Young Flyer's Competition. Mario was shocked to see that those wings are capable of immense speed as Lightning smirks at his reaction.

Lightning Dust: You see? Those magic wings allow the Earth ponies to participate.

Mario: . . .W-What if they melt in the sun?

Madden: The racers are now about to enter the most dangerous part of the race course as they approach the Everfree Forest at incredible speeds! But how exactly will they be able to keep their speed AND make it through the large patch of trees?

The three leaders in the race see the Everfree Forest approaching them as they zoom right through the town. Mario remembers what Soarin told him about sideways flight to make maneuverability easier for him and Rainbow Dash as he gets slightly nervous, but he catches Lightning Dust with a smirk on her face.

Lightning Dust: Ha! This'll be easy!

Rainbow Dash: Oh, yeah? Then prove it! Come on Mustache, let's show these chumps how it's done!

Mario: Haha! Got it!

They both take off forward making Lightning Dust raise an eyebrow before the two zoom straight through the Everfree Forest avoiding the trees perfectly in a rainbow and a red streak.

Lightning Dust: (Great! Mario and Rainbow Dash decided to take the lead! Guess that means I can execute my first plan!)

Lightning Dust eyes back from herself before giving some sort of signal with her hoof as a couple of unicorns see this with widened eyes as they both smirk and activated some magic. . . that moved the trees into a path that Lightning Dust could fly through without having to slow herself down.

She flies right through the trees along with some other competitors with limited movement that she was just right behind Mario and Rainbow Dash who both see a sign to fly upwards to which they did. As soon as they flew upwards towards Cloudsdale, they noticed Lightning Dust quickly pass them which surprised the two.

Mario looks back down to see some unicorns deactivating their magic as he could already tell how Lightning Dust was cheating. Both him and Rainbow Dash catch back up towards Lightning Dust with irritated looks on their faces.

Mario: Hey! That wasn't-a fair! Those unicorns aren't-a even on your team!

Lightning Dust: *smirks* Tough luck.

Rainbow Dash growls from this before she smirks and flies over right above Lightning Dust. The camera cuts to Lightning Dust's smirking face before she felt something on her back making her eyes widen as she looks behind herself to see Rainbow Dash riding on her back while crossing her hooves with a smirk.

Lightning Dust: What the. . .? Get off of my back, Rainbow Dash!

Rainbow Dash: *relaxed sigh* Nice breeze here.

Lightning Dust: Hitching a ride on a competitor is against the rules!

Rainbow Dash: Tough luck.

Now it was Lightning's turn to get irritated at Rainbow Dash, but she instead gives a calm sigh before letting out a fake embarrassed laugh while rubbing her head.

Lightning Dust: Okay. . . You got me. But can you actually please get off of me, so that I can fly up to where Cloudsdale is without pulling us both down?

Rainbow Dash's eyes widen from this as she knew that Lightning Dust had a point as they both wouldn't be able to fly with extra weight pulling them both back, so she jumps off of Lightning Dust and continues flying her own way right beside her.

Lightning Dust: Thank you. . . also a little bit of space wouldn't hurt either. . . can you move to the side just a bit?

Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow from this as she looks at Lightning Dust before flying a little bit to her left.

Rainbow Dash: Right here?

Lightning Dust: Just a little further away. . .

Rainbow Dash continues to fly left, however she wasn't paying attention to her surrounding as she bumps right into Mario causing them both to tumble in the air for a little bit.

Lightning Dust: *laughs* Suckers.

Both Rainbow Dash and Mario shook their heads as Rainbow Dash gave Mario an embarrassed smile for bumping into him before they both continue flying up towards Cloudsdale. They both then used the loop-de-loop technique that Fleetfoot taught them and it allowed the two to create a quick burst of wind to shoot themselves back upwards so that they can catch up back to 1st place.

Luckily for them, they were able to get through Cloudsdale pretty quickly as there weren't any unnecessary obstacles that they needed to worry about for now. They ended up back up in Canterlot in no time as Mario, Rainbow Dash, and Lightning Dust were still the leaders in this race.

Madden: The Mustang Marathon just started and Rainbow Dash from the Wonderbolts is still in the lead followed by Lightning Dust, and Mario! Even after this first lap, can any of them hold onto their lead?

They were on their first pit stop as each flyer flies over to the sidelines as Mario and Rainbow Dash fly towards the Wonderbolts to quickly catch some of their breath. Rainbow Dash looked like she was pumped for more while Mario was sweating just a little bit as this seemed way more intense than he was expecting.

Spitfire: One lap down and you guys are already on a roll. Not bad, but be sure to keep that lead in the next lap.

Rainbow Dash: Next one? Ha! How about all of them? I'm going to finish this with both wings tied behind my back! Right, babe?

Rainbow Dash then notices Mario a little bit out of shape which made her raise an eyebrow.

Rainbow Dash: Aw, come on. Don't tell me that you're tired already!

Mario: *panting* No, I'm-a cool. I didn't-a want this to be easy anyway. . . Besides. . . I don't-a get tired. . .

He then hears some munching coming from the side of them as Mario looks to the side and his eyes widened to see Lightning Dust and the rest of her team snacking or drinking some liquids as Lightning Dust sees Mario eyeing her as she takes her mouth off a water bottle before smirking at Mario:

Lightning Dust: Hey~ You want a sip~?

Mario: Ew! No thanks!

Mario then looks down at his stomach and hears it growling as he rubs his tummy before getting a nervous look on his face.

Mario: Actually. . . I am kind of hungry. . .

Applejack: Hey, sugarcube!

Mario and Rainbow Dash look over at the sidelines to see not just Pinkie Pie with Spike on her back carrying an enormous amount of cotton candy, but Applejack had a couple of pies stacked on her hoof and Apple Bloom was carrying some cider too which excite both racers.

Applejack: Granny Smith and Big Mac couldn't see y'all competin' since someponies had to take care of the farm while Apple Bloom and I were away, so they made y'all some apple pie and some cider if y'all want some.

Mario and Rainbow Dash immediately rushed over to Applejack while licking their lips.

Mario: Whoa! Thanks AJ! Those look deli-

Suddenly, an aqua and yellow-orange streak quickly blazes past them causing a huge gust of wind to blow and the other three passed by them too causing the pies and ciders that Applejack and Apple Bloom were carrying to splat right into Mario, Applejack, and Rainbow's faces as all three of them blink in surprise. Even Pinkie's huge cotton candy got caught in the wind as it topples over the rest of the gang.

Lightning Dust: *sarcastically* My bad, heh!

She smirks knowing that she had full intentions of doing that as Mario and Rainbow Dash shake the messed up food off of themselves before glowering after Lightning Dust.

Mario: I'll-a pass on the "face" pies!

Applejack: S-Sorry about that, y'all. . . We'll see y'all when the race is over. . .

Rainbow Dash: Oh, this'll be over faster than I chug down a lick of cider!

Both of them then immediately start flying after Lightning Dust again as they weren't going to let Lightning Dust's constant tricks slow them down as they continue to catch up back to her in the race as they pass by a ton of Pegasi that were racing after Lightning Dust before gaining the lead back just as quickly as Lightning Dust is surprised, but she sees the look of pure concentration and frustration on their faces.

As they continue through their second lap though, Lightning Dust smirks as she flies right over towards Mario with a smirk on her face.

Lightning Dust: Hey, Mario. You doing alright?

Mario tries to ignore her as he just kept on flying as fast as he could, but despite him trying to listen, Lightning Dust continues talking.

Lightning Dust: You know. . . I kind of thought at first that you were racing with Rainbow Dash just to be her "chaperone" again.

Rainbow Dash could hear this from in front of her as her eyes widened in shock as she knows exactly what Lightning Dust is trying to do as she takes a look at Mario with a stern look.

Rainbow Dash: You better not listen to her, Mario!

Lightning Dust: You play that job well, Mario! I mean it's definitely important for ALL of your jobs to play out well. However, the sad truth is that you can't have everypony here think that you deserve to be here despite your prince status.

Mario's eyes widened from this, but he shakes his head before trying to concentrate some more, but he can't deafen his ears at a time like this especially when he's using his power to help him with his flight.

Lightning Dust: Your friends and allies don't need to know what you and I already do. . . You're already amazing and that's great, but there are some impossible achievements that you'll just be incapable of doing.

Mario gains a baffled look on his face which made Lightning Dust smirk as her plan was to get inside of his head which apparently worked as Mario started involuntarily slowing down and he was falling behind both Lightning Dust and Rainbow Dash shocking him.

His shock then turns back into surprise as he fiercely glares straight ahead at Lightning Dust while growling in frustration. He was still falling back some more as he could hear laughter coming from Hoops, Dumb-Bell, and Score which he sees are catching up right behind him.

Hoops: Later, Mario! Nice racing with ya! Ha ha!

Dumb-Bell: Enjoy flying in the caboose area!

Mario was getting speechless by the minute as he couldn't believe that he's letting these guys get to him. As he falls back some more, he tried to put more speed power into his Winged Hat, but something happened. . .

His Winged Hat started going on and off with its wings which Mario did not fail to notice as he looks up at his horn with a raised eyebrow.

Mario: What. . . the. . .?

His Winged Hat continued to stop its wings. . . before it just suddenly stopped making Mario fall far away which made him scream.

Mario: WAAAAAAAA!!!

The spectators from Canterlot including his friends and girlfriends saw this in extreme shock as they all gasped at the sudden fail in Mario's Winged Hat.

Madden: Whoa! What happened there?!

Mario continues screaming as he fell behind a lot more competitors and was even falling down towards the surface of the ground which alarmed him as he instantly tried to get his Winged Hat back in gear by tapping it as hard as he can. He obtained flight again and was trying to speed himself up back up airborne as he glares up at his Winged Hat before knocking his hat a couple of times with his hand.

Mario: What in the. . .? Come on! Please work!

As if it was hearing what Mario said, his Winged Hat apparently obeyed his command by flapping its wings faster again so that Mario could use his speed to catch back up to Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust ahead of the race. He then flew ahead of some of the competitors to try and get back on track. . . before his Winged Hat suddenly shut off again, launching him downwards again.

Mario: WAAAHAHAHAHA!!!

The spectators in Canterlot gasped again and it wasn't just them who were surprised, Twilight and the other princesses were both worried and confused for what's going on with Mario.

Twilight Sparkle: Mario!

Shining Armor: Whoa, whoa, whoa, what in Equestria's going on? Is. . .that supposed to happen?

Princess Celestia: As far as I'm concerned, it's not, but he was working that item so flawlessly earlier. . .

Princess Luna: Perhaps thy prince is out of tune. . .?

Twilight listened to Luna's claim as she puts a hoof on her chin thinking about those words before an idea suddenly got into her head of what's happening to her boyfriend.

Twilight Sparkle: I'm not a hundred percent on this, but. . .I'm well aware that magic relies on both physical and mental stability, and it can be similar to Mario's powers and abilities, so while he may have mastered the Winged Hat well enough to perform it. . .there's a probability that his emotions might be getting in the way of his concentration.

Princess Celestia: If we factor in the minor drawbacks he displayed earlier, your theory may be correct, Twilight.

Mario who was flying through Cloudsdale, suddenly flies straight into a large, puffy cloud as he coughs inside of it for a little bit before shaking his head and he gets a frustrated look as he tries flying once more. . . only to pulled back again and it was getting worse each attempt as he was almost headed towards last place.

Madden: Mario is struggling a lot out there! Can our "hero" gain a bunch of momentum back from this huge mishap that he's put himself in?!

Down below where the rest of the Mane 6 along with some others are, they too were worried for Mario as they've never seen him this emotionally anxious before while racing.

Applejack: Dang, he's gettin' killed out there. . .

Fluttershy couldn't watch as cowers and covers both of her eyes with her hooves.

Fluttershy: *whimpers* I think I'm gonna be sick. . .

Even the Wonderbolts who were watching, were surprised at this turn of events as Spitfire shakes her head in disapproval.

Spitfire: C'mon newbie! Wherever your head is in, get it back in the race!!

Back with Mario, his Winged Hat sopped for a split second a couple times which made hyperventilate a little bit as all that he could really do now is continue flying naturally, but even so, he wasn't flying as fast as he should be.

Mario: Mamma Mia! I thought I had practice in winning races, not losing races!

While Mario was in the back of the race just heading out of Cloudsdale, the ones in the lead were just getting back in towards Canterlot as Rainbow Dash was still in the lead and she comes to a screeching halt once she hits her pit stop with the Wonderbolt crew. She grabs a water bottle with her wing and starts chugging it down before turning back to Spitfire worried.

Rainbow Dash: You've guys got to help me! I don't know what's going on with Mario and neither do I, but clearly it's got to do with something Lightning Dust told him about that made him think about something that happened recently!

Spitfire: You? You worry about yourself right now, Crash. You're still in the lead, so there's nothing we need to be concerned about regarding you. You just keep racing the way you're racing and you'll stay in good shape.

She then places a foreleg on her back and pats her a couple of times.

Spitfire: Don't worry about Mario. Leave him to us. We'll talk to him when he gets here. You've got nothing else to do on your pit stop anyway, so keep those wings flapping, Crash!

Rainbow Dash looked at Spitfire before back behind her to see that Mario was coming up towards the end of his lap in a second. Knowing how well Spitfire is coaching her and pretty much anypony around, she had no reason to doubt her especially since she's the leader of the Wonderbolts.

Rainbow Dash just nods before she flies off in a rainbow streak as Lightning Dust follows right behind her along with some more flyers. Spitfire smirked after Rainbow Dash before her look turned into a frown as she sees Mario coming their way.

Spitfire: Come on, Wonderbolts! Let's give this so-called "hero" a "pit stop, pep-talk!"

The rest of her crew nodded in agreement with her as Mario slows down and sits down at their pit stop area while sweating and breathing really heavily while looking downwards before suddenly he looks up. . . to see all of the Wonderbolts suddenly surrounding him which made his eyes widen in confusion.

Spitfire: Now THIS is how it's done! Air-jack!

Soarin: Jack-tiavte!

Soarin grabs Mario from behind and lifts him up into a T-pose.

Mario: Wha??

Spitfire: Lube!

Blaze: Applied liberally!

Blaze then started rubbing what looked to be lotion all over Mario's chest confusing him.

Spitfire: Detailing!

Misty Fly: Wax on, wax off!

Misty Fly puts a wax strip behind Mario's head and immediately rips it off causing him to yell out in pain as he could feel some his hair removed.

Mario: YOW!

Spitfire: Fuel!

Fleetfoot then shoves the top of a large water jug into Mario's mouth as water was getting into his system immediately.

Fleetfoot: Down the hatch! Chug, chug, chug!

When Mario couldn't take anymore, he instantly spits out a big dose of H2O.

Spitfire: Hoof massage!

Misty Fly: You know it!

Misty Fly shoves Mario to the ground in a spread-eagle position on his belly as she started stomping all over his back.

Spitfire: Relaxing vibes.

Soarin: On it boss!

Soarin then places headphones on Mario's ears that were hooked up to a radio. Soarin then pressed a button which started to play Classical music into Mario ears which calmed him down a lot as he smiled and let's out a relaxed sigh. However, this made Spitfire smirk.

Spitfire: Now DE-lax those vibes!

Soarin immediately changed the music on the radio which played Heavy Metal music instead as this made Mario yelp out in shock before throwing the headphones aside and glaring at Spitfire.

Mario: Are you out of your mind?!

SMACK*

Spitfire just slaps Mario in the face.

Mario: Aah. . .

Spitfire: You better believe I am! What made you think I had sanity?!

Mario: W-What? W-What's-a th-that supposed to—?

His stammering earned him another slap in the face as Spitfire gets in his face while glaring deep at him.

Mario: Owowowow!!! Stop hitting me!

Spitfire: Get a grip! What are your supposed to be? An Earth pony?!

Mario: N-No?

Spitfire: A Pegasus?!

Mario: No.

Spitfire: A unicorn?!

Mario: No!

Spitfire: Then stop trying to fly like one!!!

Mario understands Spitfire's words now as he thinks hard about what she said and she was right. . . he needs to stop flying the traditional way and start flying his own way in order to win the race.

Spitfire: Now get back out there and show them that you can buck up, hero!!

She pushes Mario back on the track as the rest of the Wonderbolts cheer him on before Mario adjusts his Winged Hat and flies and gets back in the race. Mario was nearly in dead last place and he knew that he had to catch a lot at this point as they were only halfway through the race right now.

All of the racers were speeding through Canterlot again as Mario sees that he'll need a lot of the speed that he was originally using earlier in the race to catch back up to his girlfriend and her rival who were still neck to neck. He trying speeding himself up before a dragon blocks his path making him gasp in fear.

Mario: *gasps* Whoa! Ngh! Come on!

He tries passing around the dragon, only to be blocked away by another Pegasus making Mario yelp in surprise. He then looks ahead and sees some of the racers up ahead turning their way past a building through Canterlot and this makes him get a small, yet crazy idea in his head to try and see if he can go through the building instead. He was a little bit unsure, but he remembers what Spitfire told him, so he closes his eyes and takes a deep breath.

Mario: *sighs* Come on, Mario. Let's-a go. . .

With his eyes still closed, he flies straight towards the building and strains as he increases his sped and his Winged Hat continues to stop for split seconds which worried Mario as he strains a little bit more while also trying to keep his cool. If his hat doesn't work, he'll be sent back even farther and possibly in last place too.

Mario: Let's-a go!!

Mario was getting closer and closer to the building as he yells a little before flying straight at the wall and when he came in contact with it. . . he flies straight through it as his strategy worked.

He came out the other side of the building and when he opened his eyes back up, he sees that his Winged Hat was successful and he looks up at his hat to see that it was no other stopping and this made him smile proudly as this means that he got his emotions clear now and started thinking like himself instead of himself like a different man.

Mario: Hahahaha!! Whoohoo!!

Everypony who was spectating saw this too in extreme shock as that wasn't even something that the unicorns in the race even thought of doing yet and Mario was the first one to try this tactic and it ended up working like a charm.

Madden: I don't believe my eyes at all! Did I just see Mario go through a building like it was just thin air?!

The Cutie Mark Crusaders who were watching had their jaws open in shock as well.

Scootaloo: Whoa! Did you guys see that?! Mario would have to be crazy to pull even more stunts like that with his powers!

Pinkie Pie then leans down close towards her with a wink.

Pinkie Pie: Exactly~!

Rarity: I think our dearie may have some sort of plan after all.

Fluttershy slowly removes one of her hooves from her face to take a look back at the race hearing what her friends were talking about Mario.

The camera then cuts to different parts of Mario body flying as we see him along with the other racers flying in slow motion. He slowly blinks with a smile on his face as he looked like he was flying with clear confidence now. He slowly looks to his left to see a couple of racers to his side before slowly looking to the other side to see the exact same kind of view before he gets a smug smile and faces forwards.

Time resumed as Mario vaults right over one Pegasus stallion that was right in front of him making him glare at Mario both surprised and annoyed.

Mario then proceeds to go under another Pegasus mare right in front of him which surprised her with shock as in her vision, Mario came out of nowhere.

Madden: Despite having such a rocky start, it looks like Mario is gaining back a lot of the ground he lost. . . or in case is it skies that he lost?

Hearing Madden announce this, a Pegasus mare racing named Cloudchaser looked behind herself to see that Mario wasn't anywhere behind her making her raise an eyebrow before getting a really worried look on her face.

Cloudchaser: Where is he?! W-Where is he?!

It turns out Mario was not behind her at all as we see the mustachioed human flying with a smile look on his face, but that wasn't all. . . as the camera turns 180 degrees to show that Mario was flying upside down over Cloudchaser. She didn't notice this until after a second as she looked up in shock with her mouth hanging open.

Mario salutes to her before he quickly barrel rolls around and zips past right in front of her to speed on up in the race.

Mario then looks down ahead and sees a manhole cover about to be inspected by a construction pony as he quickly dives down and kicks the manhole cover out of the ground shocking the pony as they watch Mario fly off with it.

Mario proceeds to pick the manhole cover underneath him and act like it was a skateboard as he does a kickflip with it before he jumps and flies high with it over towards a nearby building and he grinds on the side rails.

He then jumps off the rail and does his triple jump with the manhole cover before standing on one arm, doing a sick trick. He even exclaims so loud that it causes an echo out loud in the area as he jumps off the manhole and does his signature Mario pose in the air.

Mario: Weehee!! Here we go!!

Back where the Mane 6 and the others were spectating, them along with many other ponies who were rooting for Mario started cheering for him as they watch him on the magic big screens that the unicorns were producing. Fluttershy even saw this as she takes her forelegs off of her face with a surprised look before it slowly became a huge grin with a cheery chuckle.

Mario was now in Ponyville flying fast like the wind as he sees three racers up ahead of him that consisted of a dragon, an Earth pony using wings, and griffon as he smiles at this with huge confidence.

Then he increases his speed and is now flying right above the racers as Mario then jumps down on them and he proceeds to stomp right on each of the three racers ahead of him one by one which nearly knocked them off their course, but they were surprised to see that it was Mario.

Mario flies back up again before seeing the forest straight ahead of him again as he smirks before flying straight at the trees at full speed, but once he was right at the entrance, he flies right out of sight which catches one Earth pony stallion off guard as he rams right into a tree.

Mario then starts platforming from tree to tree without even flying in the first place which made his job so much easier rather than flying around the trees like the Pegasi do.

He even decides to be stylish by platforming with loops around a couple of trees before rocketing himself ahead.

Mario then arrives at the stopping point of the forest portion of the race as he looks upwards before adjusting his Winged Hat and quickly ascends straight up into the air.

He pops out of the forest before doing a large loop-de-loop and he bursts himself straight into the air causing a burst of wind to be left straight behind him.

Twilight and the other princesses saw Mario's every move on the magic screen as she just sees him pass another pony with immense joy on her face.

Princess Cadance: Whoa! He just passed another one!

Flurry Heart just babbles happily while clapping both of her forelegs together.

Shining Armor: Even I've got to admit that considering he was all the way at dead last, he isn't doing half bad out there now.

Twilight, Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna all looked at each other with smiles seeing their boyfriend killing it out there as the racers were approaching Canterlot once more.

Mario then makes his pit stop back where the Wonderbolts were as soon as he passed the lap line. He looked pumped and full of adrenaline as Soarin tossed him a towel which Mario wipes his forehead with while Fleetfoot used her wing to toss Mario a water bottle which he immediately chugs down. Spitfire just smirks at him clearly amused.

Spitfire: Yeah! Now that's what I'm talking about! If you're able to get back up to Crash in no time from here then who's to say that you can't win this race with your eyes shut?!

Mario: *smile* Nopony! Cause I don't-a accept being the last place! It's-a all the way or no way at all! Wahoo!

Spitfire: That's the talk that I need to hear, newbie! Now get back out there and fly like there's no tomorrow or I'm gonna whack you again!

Mario nods in response to this order as he gets back on the road and immediately takes off in a red blur.

On the sidelines, Mario's other girlfriends and friends were cheering loud for them. . . but they were caught off guard when they look to the side and see Fluttershy cheering as loud as she can while hopping up and down at Pinkie Pie level.

Fluttershy: GO, GO, GO, GO, GO! FLY, FLY! FLY, MARIO, FLY! WAHOO!

Fluttershy then notices her friends reaction to her out of character cheering as she slowly descends back to the ground and blushes sheepishly red as even she can't believe she yelled that out loud.

Mario continues flying through Canterlot once more easily passing by more ponies as he jumps over one Pegasus while pumping a fist up, he slides under another one flawlessly, and spin jumps over a unicorn.

He then ends up right behind Hoops, Dumb-Bell, and Score as the three troublemakers glare back at Mario with a little bit of surprise on their faces. Score and Hoops try to slam themselves into Mario but smiles as he quickly ascends at the last second for them to knock themselves into each other before speeding on ahead.

In slow motion, Dumb-Bell then tried to back-hoof Mario. . . only for him to position himself upright while behind the upper portion of his body backwards 90 degrees like in a certain movie that involves going into the internet. Dumb-Bell's jaw slowly dropped seeing Mario do this as the mustachioed human tips his hat at him before passing him as well.

Seeing Rainbow Dash and Lightning Dust up ahead made Mario smile as the former Pegasus looked back at Mario with a big smile on her face before looking back up ahead. Mario then does a huge corkscrew in the air before bursting off with speed towards the two as he was now back in the lead.

Madden: Mario flies past the three boys on Lightning Dust and is now back in the race, hot on Lightning Dust's hooves herself!

Dumb-Bell: Hey, boss! Human comin' your way! Six o'clock!

Lightning Dust: *groans* Alright! I know, I know!

Mario then flies right neck to neck with Lightning Dust as she glares at him a little bit as Mario trades smug smiles with Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow Dash: Gee, what took you so long, babe? I was getting lonely up here without you.

Lightning Dust looked at Rainbow Dash like she was crazy as that was clearly meant to taunt her as she hasn't kept her busy this whole time.

Mario: Oh Hoho, you know. . . Just a tiny slip up. Nothin' a little reminder of how heroic I am to even up the playing fields now! Yippee! Haha!

Mario was able to bump one of Rainbow's rear legs with his fist as they both chuckle at each other and Lightning Dust sees this with slight annoyance as she focuses back forwards and sweats a little bit, but she takes a deep breath knowing that she's still in the race as has a chance to beat her.

Lightning Dust: (These two are clearly going to annoy me now that they're together. I'm gonna need to come up with something smarter quickly.)

All of the racers were now speeding through Ponyville as when they quickly dash through, the camera pans up to Cloudsdale above the Everfree Forest as lots of Pegasi were seen in the middle of the race path placing a bunch of dark gray storm clouds in place as one Pegasus mare salutes another one with a smile before they both fly off of the track.

Madden: These racers better watch their backs now as this late in the race of the Mustang Marathon, we've got some dark fluffy clouds in the path! And these aren't fluffy clouds that you play with folks as those storm clouds are going to be quite the minefield for these flyers!

When Mario, Lightning Dust, and Rainbow Dash zoom out of the Everfree Forest, Lightning Dust notices the storm clouds that were in their path straight ahead as she looks at these for a moment before getting a mischievous smirk on her face.

Lightning Dust: Here we go~

All three of them were inside of the storm cloud field as they all try their very hardest to avoid flying straight into a storm cloud or even getting struck by lightning as if they even get hit by that, it could cause some detrimental damage to their bodies.

Mario and Rainbow Dash were struggling a lot as they both do their absolute best to dodge lightning strikes from the storm clouds. While Lightning Dust was the doing the same thing, she looks at both of them struggling and smirks as she flies near Rainbow Dash and narrow her eyes at her with a smirk on her face.

Rainbow Dash: What do YOU want, Lightning Dust?! I think it's safe to say that all three of us will be busy in here, so don't even think that my mind is on witty banter right now.

Lightning Dust: Eh, I can multitask. Something your colt should've done while he was racing to begin with.

Rainbow Dash: *rolls eyes* What are you talking about, now?

Lightning Dust: Just because I made Mario act like a fool out there doesn't mean that you should always have his back. . . *smirks* Literally.

Rainbow Dash: What kind of nonsense is that?

Lightning Dust: Nothing. I'm just sayin' that for what this is worth. . . Here's your "push" in the right direction.

Rainbow Dash looks at Lightning Dust with widened eyes as that sounded rather devious.

Rainbow Dash: Huh?!

Lightning Dust then proceeds to quickly kick Rainbow Dash to the side, knocking her off her course as she yelps out while spinning and when she gets herself back upright, she shakes her head before looking into a direction of a storm cloud right above her which made her gasp with widened eyes. . . but it was too late.

The storm cloud zapped Rainbow Dash with a large lightning bolt that made her scream out in excruciating pain.

Rainbow Dash: GYAAAAAH!

Rainbow Dash then nearly loses consciousness while grasping one of her wings as she then instantly starts dropping out of the sky and this does not go unnoticed by Mario as he looked down at Rainbow Dash with extreme worry.

Mario: RAINBOW DASH!

Mario then instantly flies downwards out of the storm cloud field as Rainbow Dash was falling fast, but not too fast to where Mario couldn't catch her in time as he luckily was able to catch her with both of his hands. He immediately looked down at her with worry in his eyes as the zap looked painful.

Mario: Oh no! Rainbow, are you okay?!

Rainbow Dash only responded with painful grunts while grasping her left wing as Mario took a look at it with a gasp to see. . . that Rainbow Dash's left wing was crooked and fried by the lightning as smoke was wafting off of it. Mario glares back up towards the racers as he was far behind last, but that didn't matter right now as all that he was concerned right now for was Rainbow Dash's safety.

It didn't take him too long before he got back to Canterlot while carrying Rainbow Dash in his hooves and as Mario passes the lap line, he flies over to the Wonderbolts as all of them came running up to Mario as he slowly sets Rainbow Dash down on the ground.

Fleetfoot: Rainbow Dash!

Soarin: What happened out there?

Mario: I'll-a tell you what happened. Lightning Dust was so focused on winning that she was willing to put Rainbow Dash or me in danger just so that she won't have anymore competition in the race. It's-a just like the Wonderbolts Academy all over again.

Spitfire: How bad was it? Is she still capable of toughing it out?

Mario: Umm. . . Is "this" capable to you?

He turns Rainbow Dash over onto her belly as the Wonderbolts gasped when they see the condition of her left wing. Rainbow Dash grunts and glares at them before standing back up on her hooves.

Rainbow Dash: What are you guys so worried about? So my wing got shocked. Big deal! I can still. . .

She then tries flying up into the air, but the best that she could even do right now was just jump a couple of feet into the air before she lets out a slight scream of pain before falling back down to the ground. Spitfire glares down at Rainbow Dash before slowly shaking her head.

Spitfire: Sorry, Crash. As much as I want to say that you can tough that out, you're gonna have to sit this final lap out now. . . I'm diligent, but I'm not insane to not know when my teammates need to rest. . .

Spitfire then gestures over towards Madden to tell the announcer pony that they are down a member which the stallion nods at.

Madden: And it appears we have an unfortunate turn of events for the Wonderbolts as they have just lost one of their racers AND it's on the final lap of the race.

Rainbow Dash: *groans* Why did it have to be now of all times?!

Mario sighs before looking down towards the ground in guilt that Rainbow Dash got hurt like this.

Mario: I'm-a sorry, Dashie. . .

Rainbow Dash looks at Mario's guilty look and she shakes her head before sighing herself while looking away.

Rainbow Dash: *sighs* No. . . It's not your fault, Mario. . . It's Lightning's. . .

She crosses her hooves still in small frustration before she looks back at Mario and smiles at him.

Rainbow Dash: But. . . I'm glad that you were there to save me, so. . . Thanks, babe.

Mario looks back at Rainbow Dash still with a frown on his face.

Rainbow Dash: *smiles* I may have lost and I hate losing, but. . . at least you can say that I'm not the only one who lost here. . .

Soarin then came up and placed a hoof on Mario's back.

Soarin: Hey, you guys were able to make it through the race this far. . . I'd say that's good enough. . .

Mario looks at Soarin before back at the track's finish line. He then looks over towards his friends as they all had different reactions of sadness over Rainbow Dash's getting her wing broken during the race. He then looks back up at the screen that the unicorns were producing to show coverage of the race across the area and he sees Lightning Dust on there speeding out of Canterlot towards Ponyville.

Seeing her made Mario furrow his eyebrows as he looks back down at Rainbow Dash who had Misty Fly help with wrapping a bandage around her wing. He then looks back towards the track once more before he slowly gets a serious look on his face that said that he wasn't about to back down right now.

Mario: . . .No, it's-a not!

The Wonderbolts and Rainbow Dash all looked at Mario making this statement with shock in their eyes as the mustachioed human brushes Soarin's hoof off of him before flying back onto the track much to Spitfire's dismay.

Spitfire: What in the heck are you doing?!

Mario: Rainbow Dash and I started this race. . . so I'M-A gonna finish it! I'm-a going to get back in the lead no matter the cost!

Fleetfoot: Are you serious?! You were barely able to get back up there in just one lap! There's no way you'll make it on your own!

Spitfire: Mario! Get back over here!

Mario: I do not accept that order, ma'am!

Mario then eyes Rainbow Dash who was staring at him in huge shock of his decision to keep racing.

Mario: Dashie. . . I know I said that I promise that I'm-a going to race just for your sake. . . and I always keep my promises no matter what! I'm-a gonna finish this race for you right here right now!

Rainbow Dash didn't know how to respond from this, but she felt her heart skip a beat from Mario's words as he's never been this desperate to win for her until now. Even the rest of the Mane 6 along with the others were surprised at Mario's decision to keep racing.

Rarity: What in Equestria is he thinking? He'd be crazy to try and finish this race now. He can barely even keep up with Rainbow Dash. There's no way that he'll be able to catch up with Lightning Dust now.

Starlight Glimmer: Well. . . Only Mario is crazy enough to take risks in order to finish a dangerous race that he started.

Scootaloo: I hope Mario does win. . . for Rainbow Dash's sake.

Mario looks ahead far at the empty track as he takes a deep breath as he readied his fists and Winged Hat and closes his eyes and gets into a stance.

Mario: Alright. . .

Mario then makes his wings on his Winged Hat flap rapidly.

Mario: Let's-a go. . .!

As soon as Mario opened his eyes. . . he bursts off in a blur, causing a large gust of wind to be blown back at everypony behind him as they shield their eyes before staring off at him in shock.

Up ahead, Mario was flying as fast as his Winged Hat could carry him as he does a couple of barrel rolls before making himself go straight through the Canterlot building without much problems at all.

As soon as he goes straight through the city, he still had a serious look on his face before he exits the city and notices from afar that the racers were just about through speeding through Ponyville which meant that he was super far behind. His eyes widened from this before he gets a stressful look on his face as his confidence from earlier may have sunk down again.

He then notices his Winged Hat starting to stop in split seconds making Mario gasp in horror as he can't have this happening at a time like this.

Mario: No, no, no! Come on! Hold it in there a little longer!

The rest of the gang from behind in spectators including the princesses had worried looks on their faces as even they believed that there would be no chance that Mario could catch up to all of the racers at this point. Mario was straining onto his Winged Hat as sweat rolls down his face as he was struggling so much to keep his Winged Hat under control to even maintain his speed. Suddenly, Lightning Dust's words echoed in his mind once more.

Lightning Dust: (In Mario's Mind) Oh, come to your senses, Mario. The only reason you'd ever support a mare like Dash is because you don't have the gall to race!

Mario begin hyperventilating again as he closes his eyes shut and shakes his head continuously to get Lightning Dust's voice out of his mind.

Lightning Dust: (In Mario's Mind) Your friends and allies don't need to know what you and I already do. . . You're already amazing and that's great, but there are some impossible achievements that you'll just be incapable of doing.

Mario was about to give himself up. . . until he remembers what Rainbow Dash said to him long before the race even started.

Rainbow Dash: (In Mario's Mind) This is your ONE and probably ONLY opportunity to show the world just how doubly awesome the two of us can be!

Mario even remembers why he participated in this race in the first place. Just to be with his girlfriend and race alongside with her. Now that he promised that he was going to win the race for her, that's exactly what he is going to do. Those words circle through Mario's mind as he closes his eyes for a second before opening them back up in full determination as now his eyes weren't even light blue anymore.

Now they were magenta. Just like Rainbow's eyes.

Mario: I DON'T-A lose races! Especially not at the finish line!!

Mario then squints his eyes shut and started straining as he begin putting his Winged Hat into overdrive, trying to flap its wings as hard as he can. . . as even rainbow sparkles even begins to form around his body.

Mario: Come on. . . Come on! COME ON! HEEEYYAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!

Suddenly. . . Mario took off at unbelievable speeds causing a mini-sonic boom behind him leaving behind a red streak as he flies down to Ponyville in no time flat. Pony spectators who were down there look in the direction where Mario was coming from with extreme shock and surprise as he blasts straight through the area in less than 10 seconds and caught up to the racers finally.

Madden: This race is still in Lightning Dust's favor as there is no much of a story behind her. . .

He then takes a closer look at the racers and sees the red light blazing out of the Everfree Forest shocking him and spectators who even saw this too.

Madden: Wait a minute. . . Mario is still in this thing!!

Rainbow Dash, the Wonderbolts, and everypony else all saw this with huge surprise as they didn't think that Mario would be able to catch up so easily. Spitfire's shades lower from her eyes as her mouth hangs open for a second.

Pinkie Pie: Look at Mustache go!!

Applejack: How in the hay is he able to go that fast?! He's goin' as fast as Rainbow Dash when she's had both cider and a ton of sugar!

Spike: Who cares?! He's back in the race again and near the end of the final lap! Talk about a final trump card!

Twilight and the other princesses saw Mario's sudden burst of power as the nerdy princess was the most shocked as she puts a hoof to her chin getting some serious deja vu.

Twilight Sparkle: (It's just like. . . when we in the time stream. . . but his eyes are now Rainbow Dash's colors instead of mine this time. . .)

Spitfire: Well, I'll be. . . *smiles* He made it! He might actually win this!

Rainbow Dash: Whoo! Come on, babe! Just a little bit! Don't surprise me unless it's makes this even better!

Mario who was speeding straight through the competition ended up going past Hoops, Score, and Dumb-Bell as he ended up back up to where Lightning Dust is again as she looks at him in shock as Mario smiles at her.

Mario: Yeah. Hahaha, seems like the only pace your team is capable of at this point is slow motion, Lightning Dust~

He chuckles before zooming past Lightning Dust, taking the lead from her as she glares up ahead at Mario before the three boys behind her were just right behind her.

Lightning Dust: He's accelerating! Let's try and cut him off with a diamond formation, boys!

Score: Roger that!

All four of them then tried their hardest to catch up to Mario as he smirks seeing the four catching up with him.

Mario: Well, well, well~ It's-a starting to look like the timer has went to hurry up and the music is coming laying faster now with 100 seconds left~

Once all four of them cornered Mario from all sides, the mustachioed human looks at all of them before fake gasping.

Mario: *mocking worry* Mamma Mia, what will I do?

He exclaims as Hoops tries slamming himself into Mario who quickly flies downwards in time. Hoops stared down the direction of where Mario went with total confusion written on his face.

Hoops: W-Where did he go? D-Did I knock him off course?

He then felt a hand tap him on the shoulder as he looks to the side to see nopony there. . . until he look back in front of him to see Mario looking down at him from above. . . as he was sitting on Hoops's back shocking the daylight out of him.

People back in Canterlot saw this as Shining Armor was the first one to comment on this reckless move that Mario just pulled off.

Shining Armor: What in the world is he thinking?! That's dangerous! It's irresponsible! What happens if kids starts trying these stunts?!

Mario gets off of Hoops and flies forward in the lead again as all of them shot frustrated looks at Mario taunting them just now.

Dumb-Bell: Why that little. . . he's making us look like a bunch of chumps now!

Lightning Dust: I'm not gonna allow it! Just stick to your form and let's chase him down! We can still beat him!

Hoops: Y-Yes, ma'am!

All four of them put all of their strength and effort into flapping their wings and staying locked in a diamond formation with Lightning Dust taking their lead. Clouds were even disappearing into thin air due to how fast all of them were going. Lightning Dust licked her slightly drying lip as she was feeling a lot of the dampness of her sweat at this point.

Lightning Dust: Full speed ahead!

They all propelled forward, chasing Mario down through Cloudsdale as they were just about out of the city in just a few meters away. As all of them blazed forward, they all expected to see the male alicorn coming back into their sights for an easy catch any second now. . . only for their eyes to wide in shock and their jaws to drop of what they see next. . .

Lightning Dust, Hoops, Dumb-Bell, Score: HUH?!?

Right in front of them. . . Mario was flying with a smug smile on his face. . .

Platforming on floating blocks he came by. . .

Jumping from block to block. . .

Exclaiming happily as usual. . .

Everypony down at Canterlot started laughing at this cocky move as his friends, down below had mixed looks of deadpanned faces, laughter, or small giggles. Twilight and Shining Armor looked at the screen with deadpanned smiles while shaking their heads, Princess Celestia had a hoof to her mouth giggling, and both Princess Luna and Princess Cadance started giggling as well.

Madden: *snickers* Well, it looks like Mario doesn't believe that effort matters anymore and he may be right as the race is about to come to its close in just a minute as they speed back in Canterlot!

The Wonderbolts started laughing too as Rainbow Dash was on her back as she knows that she probably would've done something like that too. Spitfire facehooves before a small smile could be seen while shaking her head.

Hoops: W-What the. . .

Score: How can. . .?

Dumb-Bell: He can't just. . . He's PLAYING with us!!

Lightning Dust was seeing this in shock as nopony has ever mocked her like this before and she soon become very furious at her inability to catch up to somepony she has been outpaces pretty much the entire race. The sheer nerve of Mario almost made her blood boil.

Lightning Dust: That's it!! I've been holding back long enough at this point!

The saddlebags that were around Lightning Dust's back, open as the teal Pegasus pulled out something of what looked to be some liquid in a bottle. She looked at it for a moment with a fierce look on her face before back at Mario who was still yards ahead of her.

Lightning Dust: *growls* I didn't think that I would have to use this. . . but I have no choice! Nopony and I mean NOPONY will be faster than me. . . in all of Equestria!

Lightning Dust then takes the cork out of the bottle before chugging the drink straight down in one quick gulp as she wipes her mouth. . . before her eyes shot open slightly bloodshot before she quickly closes them back while straining a little bit. Veins could be seen on her body for a short second. . . before her wings flap so fast that it would match the pace of how you see a fly's wings.

She then rockets right past Mario shocking him as he didn't see this coming at all.

Mario: Wh-Wha?! H-Hey!

The crowd down at Canterlot gasps from this too.

Madden: Look out! Lightning Dust is pulling away!

Mario watches this in shock as they were just arriving back in Canterlot meaning that the finish was just mere seconds away from being passed by Lightning Dust for the win. He almost worries before he remembers Rainbow's words again about racing being in the heart and not the mind as he takes a deep breath before opening his eyes back up to make them glow light blue and he narrows his eyes up ahead with pure determination.

Mario: (Okie dokie, Mario. . You've-a never done this. . . but it's-a worth a shot. . . for Dashie. . . Here. . . We. . . GO!)

Mario then squints his eyes shut as he increases his speed dramatically as Mario soon blinked into a rainbow color. Ahead of his extended out arms. . . a rounded wave front begins to form just like a technique performed of certain light blue Pegasus.

Up ahead, Lightning Dust was near the finish line as she chuckles mischievously with a smirk on her face.

Lightning Dust: *chuckles mischievously* (Rainbow Dash could've had the chance to take this victory if she was still here as she's the other only pony who could've gotten in my way. Too bad for you now, Mario. The only way you could even beat me now is if you were actually capable of performing a Sonic Rainboom.)

Before another bout of righteous indignation could swell in her mind, Lightning Dust heard something shoot towards her like a missile as her eyes widen and before she could react. . . Mario was right up at her with his eyes closed shut. . . a rainbow trail behind him as Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Spitfire, and the rest of the Mane 6's eyes widen and jaws hit the floor of what they were seeing. . .

. . .

. . .

. . .

BOOOOOOM*

Mario performed a Sonic Rainboom.

The rainbow-hued blast that ripples outward from the spot and he continues his flight straight past the finish line at this insanely fast speed, leaving a sparkly rainbow contrail that persists in the air long after he has gone. Lightning Dust halts to an abrupt stop that throws her to the ground, tumbling on the surface for a second before she looks up in the air with speechlessness.

Lightning Dust: A SONIC RAINBOOM?!?! Th-That's impossible!! He's going faster than the speed of sounds!!

Madden: I don't believe it!! Not only did Mario past the finish line first. . . he was able to do the impossible and show us the legendary Sonic Rainboom!

Everypony started cheering as Mario kept on flying so fast that he couldn't even open his eyes and his hat was flapping around on his head. He quickly makes himself ascend upwards as the Sonic Rainboom didn't last too much longer and Mario lost control of his flight and started spinning around and around in the air for quite some time as he definitely felt dizzy.

Soon enough when he gained so much altitude to the point where he was far up above the entire city of Canterlot, his flight came to a stop and Mario starts breathing super heavily as he quickly looks downwards to the ground to see that the rainbow contrail that he made, disappears just as quickly as he made it.

Mario: *panting* Mamma Mia. R-Rainbow flies like this all of the time. . .?

He looks back up towards the sky with a dizzy look on his face looking like he's mere moments away from fainting.

Mario: *weakly* I-I. . . I wonder. . . how. . . she keeps her lunch down. . .

And just like that, Mario loses consciousness as he started skyrocketing towards the surface dangerously fast.

The Wonderbolts down below were all looking for Mario up in the air including Rainbow Dash as they were hoping that they didn't miss him anywhere when he was flying upwards while doing the Sonic Rainboom.

Soarin: Anypony see him?

They each keep looking above the sky as they even start taking off into the air to search for at least a trace of where Mario went. None of the Wonderbolts spotted Mario anywhere until Misty Fly looked upwards and looks closely to see a small figure falling towards the surface which made her gasp.

Misty Fly: Look! Up there!

All of the Wonderbolts turn towards her direction to see the figure as well and they could tell by the looks that Mario was clearly not awake or even had the energy to fly in this state as Rainbow Dash, who was the only Wonderbolt on the ground gasped at seeing Mario plummeting to his doom.

Rainbow Dash: *gasps* Mario!

Fleetfoot: No worries! We've got him!

Each of the Wonderbolts immediately flew as fast as their wings could carry them in order to catch Mario and they were able to arrive at his aid just in the nick of time as both Fleetfoot grabbed the prince first before Misty Fly came over and helped Fleetfoot out by taking one of Mario's arms while Fleetfoot took the other.

They both then flew back down over towards their pit stop area right in front of Rainbow Dash as they gently place Mario down on his back right in front of her. Rainbow Dash looked down at Mario with worry before she hears the rest of her friends come over including Twilight as they all gathered around Mario looking at him in his unconscious state.

Pinkie Pie: Oh no, Mustache!

Fluttershy: What happened to him?

Twilight Sparkle: This must have something to do with him performing that Sonic Rainboom. . . he must've used so much energy that he overexerted himself to the point where he was willing to go beyond limits that he can't handle. . .

Spitfire then comes trotting over as she stood right beside Mario looking down at him.

Spitfire: Everypony stand out of the way! Let me see something right quick!

Spitfire then sits down and takes one of Mario's hands and examines them to see if he was twitching or not before she places it down and then places her head over Mario's chest to listen for a heartbeat and what she heard next made her eyes widened in shock as she stood back up with a slightly frightened expression.

Spitfire: Holy. . . Princess Twilight is right. . . his pulse is like crazy fast. . .

Everypony gasps from this as doing that Sonic Rainboom made his heart rate skyrocket to the point where he fainted.

Twilight Sparkle: Is there a hospital nearby?

Spitfire: Way ahead of you on that.

Spitfire looks to her side and waves over towards some ponies as almost immediately came a bunch of paramedic ponies who looked like they were here in case anypony got severe injuries during the race. They were lucky to even here as that was exactly the case. The ponies immediately picked up Mario and placed him on a stretcher before rolling him away. Everypony watched Mario go with worried looks before Scootaloo looked towards Rainbow Dash with a small smile.

Scootaloo: Well. . . you won, Rainbow Dash. . . Thanks to Mario. . .

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, but. . . why do I feel so guilty for some reason. . . like this is my fault. . .?

Spitfire shakes her head before walking over to Rainbow Dash and patting her on the back.

Spitfire: It's no one's fault at all, Crash. Mario said that he was going to win this race for you. . . and that's exactly what he did even when we warned him. . . *smiles* That kind of dedication for your friends is something that I can admire. . . he most likely gets it from you. . .

Rainbow Dash smiles back at Spitfire before the two of them frown again while watching Mario leave with the paramedics.

Spitfire: Let's just hope that he makes it. . .

Suddenly, Madden shouted out an announcement which got everypony's attention.

Madden: Attention everyone! I have a shocking announcement to make before we congratulate our legitimate winners. . . Lightning Dust's team has been disqualified!

This brought a shocking gasp to everypony around, but Rainbow Dash and Spitfire seemed more interested to know why rather than be shocked. Everypony looks up at the magic screen that the unicorns were producing to see a repeat of where Lightning Dust was drinking something before flying right past Mario. It replayed again before Madden speaks of what happened here.

Madden: The rules stated that everything goes in this race whether you want to use magic or to help out your teammates in anyway. . . However, the use of NRG drinks was strictly prohibited for specific reasons of that they illegally boost your flight strength and endurance.

The Mane 6 and Wonderbolts' eyes widen from this before they turn towards Lightning Dust who was on the track and even her own teammates stared at her in shock for cheating. Lightning Dust stared up at the screen of herself cheating in pure shock as she backs up slowly in fear before her rumps hits somepony and she turns around to find Rainbow Dash and Spitfire glaring at her clearly not happy at her at all.

Spitfire: Well lookie what we have here. . .

Lightning Dust: *nervous laugh* Uh. . .he-hey, it's the big S. . .how it's hanging, Spitfire ma'am? I-It's uh. . .been a while.

Spitfire: Yeah, a while before I stumbled upon your sorry flank causing problematic stunts!

Rainbow Dash: Are you for real? After everything we went through prior and through the race, you risked breaking the rules just to show you're faster than me and my babe?!

Lightning Dust facehooves from this with an eye roll.

Lightning Dust: Geez, learn to let loose. I was hoping you'd take that talk we had about always having competition trying to throw you down more seriously. Sometimes you've gotta risk some things if it guarantees your win.

Rainbow Dash: *groans* Alright, let me tell you something. . .there's never been a time where I haven't been motivated by competitive spirit, even when it's unnecessary! Competition is meant for you to show off your A game, not turn you against one another while cutting corners! I mean, because of you, my boyfriend's life was on the line!

Spitfire: Dash taught me and the Wonderbolts a lot about loyalty, and I'm not just saying that because it's her, uh. . .Element or whatever. It's why we have rules in the first place, and it's why I've enforce those rules ever since you resigned.

Rainbow Dash: I told her that there was a difference between pushing yourself and just being plain reckless. . . that counts for rules too, you know.

Spitfire: Yeah, and considering what I saw today. . . I don't think you were cut out to be a Wonderbolt ever. I'm afraid we're gonna have to ban you from ever participating in the Wonderbolts again. . . forever.

Hearing this made Lightning Dust's eyes widen in pure horror as it's any flyers dream to become a Wonderbolt, but to have themselves be banned from them is like a nightmare to them.

Lightning Dust: B-But I. . .

Spitfire: EVER! Got it?!

Lightning Dust flinches from this before hanging her head down in sadness and defeat as she just slowly nods to oblige to her punishment.

Lightning Dust: Yes, ma'am. . .

She then walks away from the two and right after she did, Rainbow Dash then started to get crowded by a bunch of spectators as a bunch of confetti started raining down over all of Canterlot which confused her, but Spitfire smiled at all of the cheers and chatter for Rainbow Dash.

Madden: Despite the unfortunate news, I thinks we all clearly saw who our rightful winners are for this competition as they may have even broken a new speed record in all of Equestria. Everypony give out all of your cheers for Rainbow Dash, Prince Mario, who is sadly not here with us, and the Wonderbolts.

Hearing this surprised Rainbow Dash as she looked over towards Spitfire with a raised eyebrow.

Rainbow Dash: Wait. . . why am I the one getting all of the attention.

Spitfire: *smirks* You're on the team too and you started the race. Mario just finished it for you. That's how it works.

Rainbow Dash looks at Spitfire before looking out at all of the cheers for her and the Wonderbolts. Normally, she would be wanting to hear more of the praise right now as hearing how awesome she is, is something that she never gets used to. However, without Mario by her side, something didn't feel right about her taking credit this time as all that she could respond with to everypony around was a small smile as the crowd covered the camera before the entire view fades to black.

Different voices of the Mane 6 could then be faintly heard as if somepony was waking up and sure enough it was definitely Mario as the vision appeared blurry for a few moments.

Rarity: *muffled* Wait, wait! I think I just saw a twitch!

Pinkie Pie: *muffled* Oooh! I hear really weird Mustache noises coming from him too!

Fluttershy: *muffled* Oh, my. . . He looks really peaceful, yet so hurt from one stunt. . .

Applejack: *muffled* Hold on, y'all! It looks like he's wakin' up!

Finally, Mario's eyes opened up fully as he groans before holding onto his hat as he sees all of the Mane 6 and Starlight too right in front of him looking at him with relieved or excited smiles on their faces. They were inside of the Canterlot hospital as Mario was in a hospital bed.

Mario: *groans* Did we. . . Did we win?

Rainbow Dash was however the most excited out of all of them as she flies over to the side of Mario's bed with a huge smile.

Rainbow Dash: Mario! You're. . . You're okay!

Mario: Haha, would you look at that.

Fluttershy: Mario, we. . . we were so worried about you. . .

Rarity: We almost thought that you wouldn't be able to make it, darling.

Mario: Wait, how long was I. . . out for?

Twilight Sparkle: About a couple of hours. It is still the afternoon, so we were willing to wait as long as we could for you to awake.

Starlight Glimmer: Luckily the nurse said that it wasn't that fatal, you just needed some rest and you were going to wake up sooner or later.

Pinkie then jumps over to hug Mario to which he winced in reaction to.

Mario: Oof!

Pinkie immediately let go of him hearing that.

Pinkie Pie: Oops! Sorry, Mustache. Did that hurt?

Mario: *chuckles nervously* It's-a worth the pain.

Pinkie then tries to tightly hug Mario again to which he immediately regretted saying that as he pushed Pinkie off of him with a hand.

Mario: O-On second thought, maybe it's-a not. It feels like there are bruises all over my body. . .

Nurse Redheart: Oh, you're awake already?

Mario looks to his left and sees Nurse Redheart enter the room which confused him a little bit.

Nurse Redheart: You recovered faster than I originally was anticipating.

Mario: Nurse Redheart? Wait. . . Don't-a you work at the Ponyville Hospital?

Nurse Redheart: I was actually one of the spectators down at the race earlier today and after seeing you get badly hurt, they allowed an expert nurse like me to help take care of you for the time being. You're condition was luckily not too concerning as-

Starlight Glimmer: Yeah, w-we already told him the gist of it.

Nurse Redheart: Oh, well in that case, we should still keep you in here for about another hour, just to make sure that you're perfectly fine. Then you should be able to head home and rest well after such a wonderful race. Congratulations on the victory, by the way.

Hearing that made Mario's eyes widen as she leaves before he felt a peck on the cheek from Rarity as he looks at her along with all of the other mares.

Rarity: We'll all be congratulating you once you are able to come home, darling.

Applejack: Rest up, sugarcube. We'll meet ya back at home.

Everypony then left the hospital room as both Mario and Rainbow Dash watch them head off out before Mario looks back at the tomboy Pegasus who decided to stay with him as she smiles at her boyfriend.

Mario: So. . . did we really win?!

Rainbow Dash: Hmph. What does THIS look like to ya?

Rainbow Dash suddenly pulls out what looks to be a golden trophy that shines and Mario looks at it in awe as he even sees that both him and Rainbow Dash's names were printed down at the bottom of the trophy.

Rainbow Dash: Spitfire told me that once I come back to Wonderbolts headquarters that this'll make a great collection to their case. But check it out now babe, we made history together. . . and it's all because of you. Why didn't you ever tell me that you were capable of doing a Sonic Rainboom?

Mario: Well, I never tried it until today. . .Hmm.

Rainbow Dash: Yeah! I mean I thought I was the only one who could do a Sonic Rainboom, but not only did my jaw hit the floor when I saw you do it, but I was practically squealing. . . which is unusual for me to do.

Mario: Honestly. . . you should keep the title of being the only one to do a Sonic Rainboom. . . I'm-a NEVER doing that again. . . It nearly killed me. . .

Rainbow Dash: *giggles* Yeah. . . that was sort of weird and dumb to do. . . but it was definitely 120% cooler seeing you perform it at the finish line. . .

However, something came into her mind when Mario mentioned that the Sonic Rainboom almost killed him. Rainbow Dash then places down the trophy onto the ground before sitting down right next to Mario's bed.

Rainbow Dash: That leads to ask. . . why did you do it in the first place? Risk your life and push past limits that you couldn't handle just to win the Mustang Marathon? I thought you said that you had nothing to prove.

This question threw Mario into a small loop for a moment before he looks Rainbow Dash in her eyes as she looked desperate for an answer so Mario sighs and answers her.

Mario: Well. . . remember I told you that I promised Peach that I would protect Equestria no matter what? I. . . sort of gave myself a permanent rule. . . whenever I make a promise to somepony. . . NEVER break it, no matter the cost. I already know the policies with Pinkie's-a Pinkie Promises. . . but I find my promises to others a lot more valuable. . . and if I break it. . . it's-a like breaking a huge sense of trust that you and the others gave me. . .

Rainbow Dash's eyes widen from this as Mario continued on.

Mario: I told you that I would race and I promised you that I would do it all for you, knowing how much you love to win. . . I didn't-a think it would end up injuring me. . . but I was willing to take risks just to see you happy. . .

Rainbow Dash continues to stare at Mario surprised as she blushed a little bit from his words that he was willing to go so far just to win something for her. However, Rainbow Dash closes her eyes and sighs before letting out a small laugh.

Rainbow Dash: You're an idiot. . . You know that?

That caught Mario off guard as he looks over at Rainbow Dash with a weird look.

Mario: Wait, what?

Rainbow Dash: You're right. I love winning and I hate losing. It's the reason that I never going my way in order prove that I'm the most awesome pony that you know out there. . . but you seem to forget that I love something WAY more than winning. . .

Rainbow Dash then places a hoof on Mario's hand with a smile.

Rainbow Dash: *rolls eyes* Boy, I'm gonna sound real sappy when I say this, but. . . I love my friends, especially you my beloved boyfriend WAY more than some dumb trophy imprinted with my name on it.

Mario's eyes widen from this as Rainbow Dash continues.

Rainbow Dash: I mean from our first adventure together, why do you think I chose you guys over those phony clones of Pegasi or was even willing to give up being in the Wonderbolts just to be with my friends? I would've been perfectly fine losing the race if it meant that I got to be with my boyfriend. . . well almost fine, but you get my point.

Rainbow Dash then hovers up into the air while looking down at Mario.

Rainbow Dash: You see, babe. . . You may be the Hero of Equestria. . . but you don't "fully" know me as the Element of Loyalty yet. . . *chuckles* I bet I could say the same thing for some of our other friends too.

Mario deadpans at Rainbow Dash mocking him as the abrasive Pegasus clears her throat before continuing.

Rainbow Dash: Seriously though, loyalty doesn't mean putting yourself out there just for your friends' sake. It means being able to show that you'll always be by your friends' side, no matter what. For example, you know you and I don't always get along with Applejack. . . but that doesn't mean that I would cut ties from her being my friend. You would say the same thing, wouldn't ya?

Mario stares at Rainbow Dash in pure shock and surprise as he never thought that Rainbow Dash of all ponies would be teaching him a valuable lesson regarding how he should be viewing loyalty. He now sees why Rainbow Dash is the bearer of the Element of Loyalty as there's no other team or friends that she would abandon for winning besides the one that she knows right here, right now.

He smiles brightly at her for a moment just basking on how proud he is to have her as his loyal girlfriend before he just now notices her flying which made him raise an eyebrow.

Mario: Wait a second. . . I thought you broke your wing from the storm cloud that Lightning Dust knocked you into back there. . . what happened?

Rainbow Dash: Oh. . . I got that checked up by the nurse too while you were asleep. Turns out that I was actually just really sore and the lightning made me bend part of my muscle wrong. Now I REALLY wish I was able to race out there again.

Mario: *smiles* Oh Hoho, don't-a even start. You were whining the entire time that I saved you from falling to a splat to the ground.

Rainbow Dash smirks back at him.

Rainbow Dash: Says the guy who's stuck in a hospital bed.

Mario: What? Didn't-a need me to save you after all when you got struck, "Dead-Bolt Dash~?"

Rainbow Dash: Hey! *chuckles* No need for name-calling. I know I may look fragile at times, but I'm actually super tough like you.

Rainbow Dash then sits down on the hospital bed which made Mario raise an eyebrow before she extends one of her forelegs out and starts flexing, clearly inviting Mario to get a feel from her.

Rainbow Dash: Go ahead. Catch a feel of it.

Mario looks at Rainbow Dash at her foreleg before he sits up and feels her hooves up and down and his eyes widened when he does as Rainbow Dash wasn't kidding as she was delightfully toned.

Mario: Mamma Mia. . .

Rainbow Dash: See? Not bad, right?

She then gets another idea in her head as her eyes widened.

Rainbow Dash: Oh! Here, check THIS out!

She then turns herself around for Mario to get a full view of her back.

Rainbow Dash: I've been doing some back exercises too in the air. I mean. . . you're basically the only pony I know who's probably even gonna care about this kind of junk. Anyways, feel my upper back and shoulders. Go on, feel 'em!

Mario sits up again to do what Rainbow says as he gets a great feel of her shoulders and rubs and squeezes them as those were also exceptionally toned too.

Rainbow Dash: Nice, huh?

Mario: You fly so fast AND you're-a able to always stay in great shape each day? How are you able to keep your lunch down?

Rainbow Dash: Hehe, now there are some secrets that even I can't share with my boyfriend.

Mario: Oh mamma.

Rainbow Dash: Sorry, maybe I'll let you in on it one day, but definitely not now. . . but I can tell you this. . . When I was younger, I tried fasting a lot to lose some weight so that way I could end up looking more athletic. . . big mistake as it actually caused some exhaustion in me. So I just stick to carbo-loading as it's my main way of staying active.

Mario: I mean. . . with how much you fly a day. . . you pretty much need the carbs.

Rainbow Dash: You got that right, babe. I'm not doing too bad, if I do say so myself. Oh, who am I kidding? I'm doing awesome!

They both laugh for a little bit before Rainbow Dash looked down at Mario with a smile before she puts a hoof to her chin and notices that the door was closed too, so nopony could see them as she gets a smug look on her face.

Rainbow Dash: Although. . . just a side note. . . those shoulder squeezes felt pretty nice~

She then gives Mario a half-lidded smile to which Mario responds with a raised eyebrow.

Rainbow Dash: Hiiiiint~?

Mario blushed in response to both that tone and her request as it didn't take a genius to know exactly what she wanted. Mario was silent for a second before he started rubbing Rainbow Dash's shoulders again to which she bites her lips in response.

Rainbow Dash: Ohh WOW! Your hands are like. . . Dummy strong.

Seeing Rainbow compliment him was enough for Mario to continue on as he continues with the shoulder rubs.

Rainbow Dash: What in the heck, Mustache? What are you squeezing everyday to get your hands that-

Suddenly, Mario started to rub not only her shoulders, but also Rainbow Dash's back. . . in fact, he decided to be bold and rub her front area too, going from her neck all the way down to where her Cutie Marks were. Rainbow Dash moans in response to this as her eyes rolled upwards in response to all of this.

Rainbow Dash: *moans* Oh, Celestiaaa~ Is this really what a massage feels like~? Because I'm loving every second of it~

Mario: I-If you think this is good, you really should consider going to Aloe and Lotus at the Ponyville Spa. Rarity recommends it a lot to you after all.

Rainbow Dash: Now I see why~ You better not tell anypony this though or I'll give you the worst chiropractic treatment, got it?

Mario: *stammers* Y-Yeah. . .

Mario then looks down to her rear hooves as that was pretty much the only spot that he hasn't explored.

Mario: H-Hey, you want me to get down to where your bottom hooves are? I thought I'd-a ask since you don't-a like ponies touching you down there. . .

Rainbow Dash: You know what? Go ahead. They've been killing me lately anyway. You're probably going to be one of the only ones that I allow to even touch down there anyway, so you better feel lucky, Mustache.

Hearing that as a yes, Mario reaches over and starts massaging Rainbow Dash's rear hooves as Rainbow begins exaggerating how good it feels once more as this was all the more reason for him to continue on and not disappoint her.

Rainbow Dash: *moans* Hmmmm~ Ohhhh, baby~ First and best massage EVER~!

After a few more minutes of giving Rainbow Dash a massage that she enjoyed a lot more than Mario was expecting, he stopped as Rainbow let out some happy sighs before turning herself back to Mario.

Rainbow Dash: Wow. . . That was a lot of fun. . . Speaking of fun~

Rainbow Dash then stood on top of Mario's hospital bed with a flirty look on her face as she stood straight over him with her wings unfolded.

Rainbow Dash: I think after all that you've done for me today, I think it's time that I repay you a little bit~

Mario started blushing as he had a small feeling of where this was going as having Rainbow on top of him was enough to make him super nervous.

Mario: W-Wha. . . W-What are you doing, Rainbow. . .?

Rainbow Dash: What's the matter, big boy~? I thought I saw a lot more confidence in that face earlier with the shoulders~ Need a little pick me up~?

Before Mario could respond any further, Rainbow Dash dives her face down towards Mario's and smashed her lips onto his as she immediately began to make out with him, making Mario's eyes widen as he stared at Rainbow Dash in shock as he's never seen her this forward or flirty with him before.

Nonetheless, he closes his eyes back and begins returning the kiss as Rainbow Dash moans during the kiss when Mario started to deepen it just a little bit by wrapping his arms around her neck to pull her just a little bit closer. Rainbow smirks from this as she decided to be even more bold and poked her tongue on Mario's lips to ask permission for her to enter. Mario gladly accepts the invite as both of their tongues began dancing around either mixing saliva in each other's mouths.

Mario was about to end the kiss by letting go of Rainbow Dash. . . but she apparently wasn't done with Mario yet as she dropped herself to lay on top of Mario, grabs his hat, and she started kissing him a lot more aggressively which caught Mario off guard, but he just made no effort to stop the kiss as Rainbow grips Mario's hat and moaned louder as her tongue swirled in his mouth.

Rainbow Dash then started to use one of her hooves to feel Mario's chest to which he groaned in response and it wasn't until when she started to run out of breath that Rainbow Dash began separating herself from Mario's lips.

Once they both broke apart from each other, a line of saliva that was connected from their mouths stayed together for a quick second before breaking and disappearing. Rainbow Dash and Mario stared at each other with red blushes on their faces as both were trying to catch their breath and after a few seconds of panting, Mario spoke.

Mario: *panting* Mamma Mia. . . Rainbow. . . at least give me a chance to breathe. . . I'm-a still in a hospital bed for crying out loud. . .

Rainbow Dash embarrassingly rubbed the back of her head as even she could admit that she took that little make out session a bit too far.

Rainbow Dash: Hehe. . . Sorry, babe. . . guess I got a little bit carried away there. . . I mean. . . seriously. . . I love you so much that right there. . . I just couldn't help myself. . .

Mario catches his oxygen for a few more seconds before he smiles up at Rainbow Dash and decides to give her one last peck on the lips.

Mario: I love you too Dashie. . . Tell you what? How about we cuddle for a little bit. . .? After working so hard through the race today. . . I feel like resting on this fresh hospital bed is exactly the thing that I need to lay on with my favorite rainbow-maned Pegasus with me.

Rainbow Dash: *smirks* Who am I to say no to an offer like that~?

After that was said, Rainbow Dash lays on top of Mario as the two of them slowly closed their eyes with smiles on their faces as they both exhaled before Mario wraps one of his arms around Rainbow's body to hold her as the two of them fell asleep and cuddled with each other.

About an hour later, Nurse Redheart comes back into the room carrying a clipboard with a smile on her face.

Nurse Redheart: Okay, Mario, you're all set to go no- *gasps*

She gasped when she sees the sight of Rainbow Dash and Mario cuddling with each other as she stared at the sight of this for a moment before smirking at the two before she rolls her eyes and clears her throat so loud that Mario and Rainbow Dash woke up abruptly.

They both shook their heads before looking over to see Nurse Redheart watching both of them with a smirk as both of their eyes widened with a blush as they both got off of each other as Rainbow Dash hops off of the bed rubbing the back of her head and the nurse just giggles at their embarrassment.

Nurse Redheart: As much I would like to let you both continue your little comfortable business, this is not a hotel.

Mario: R-Right. . . Sorry, Nurse Redheart.

Nurse Redheart: It's all okay. You're free to head home now, Mario regarding that nothing happened to you the last hour.

Mario: Nothing at all. . .

Nurse Redheart: Excellent. Safe travels you two and congratulations on the win once again.

Once she left the room, both Rainbow Dash and Mario smirk at each other as Mario hops out of the bed on his legs.

Mario: Not just a victory. . .

Rainbow Dash: A 20% cooler victory!

Mario & Rainbow Dash: Oh yeah! Wahoo!

Both of them fist/hoof-bumped each other before the Super Mario 3D World Course Clear Fanfare is then playing as Rainbow Dash and Mario then spin next to each other before they both jump up and pump a hoof and fist in the air, exclaiming before the view closes in a black circle.

Chapter 100 End.