Beyond Her Bravado

by Starlitomega

Rating: everyone
Tags: Slice of Life, Main 6, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Rainbow Dash, Comedy, Rarity, Romance
Length: 7941

Speedy, stylish, awesome, pretty...? Rainbow has an image to maintain, but after helping Rarity with several projects, she starts to wonder if looking a bit feminine is bad after all.

Speedy, stylish, awesome, pretty...?
Rainbow has an image to maintain, but after helping Rarity with several projects, she starts to wonder if looking a bit feminine is bad after all. And who knows? When all is said and done, she may end up with something, or someone, she never expected.

Story image was graciously loaned to me to use by wizardglitter. She has apparently moved this picture to storage, so I cannot link directly to it any longer.

Edited By Keytapper, The wonderful writer who brought us What Is A Name.

Published 2014-05-13 01:10:04 UTC
Last updated 2014-05-15 21:40:01 UTC

What she really wants

It looks dumb.

Rainbow stared at the dress she had been forced to wear for Twilight's coronation. Much to her surprise, when she tried to give it back, Rarity insisted she keep it.

Of course, this was met with a cool chuckle and a reminder as to who Rainbow Dash was. She wasn't some frilly pony who dreamed of being a princess. She was cool, strong, and independent. Rainbow Dash knew this better than anypony else.

So, why couldn't she keep from looking at the dress?

Even worse, she felt compelled to do something with it. She shook her head as if to rid herself of the invasive thought.

"Grrr, that does it! I know what to do with you!"

Rainbow snatched the dress off the rod and marched over to her bed. She tossed the garment underneath with a feeling of satisfaction.

Hmph! That takes care of that!

Rainbow hopped on her bed to catch a few winks.

"Twilight, darling, I don't suppose I could convince you not to sneeze while I'm using sharp objects around your head."

The alicorn shot her an annoyed look. "I can't help it, Rarity. I think I'm allergic to whatever you made this thing out o— ahhhchoo!"

Rarity tsked. "I don't mean to sound ungrateful. There aren't many unicorns willing to model a headdress quite as extravagant as this one."

"I'm an alicorn," Twilight reminded her. Upon her head rested a multi-layered headdress which spiraled around her horn.

"Yes, yes, I know you're an alicorn, but this piece is for a very important Canterlot noble who just happens to be a unicorn. In this case, your wings won't pose a problem."

"Aaaaachoo!"

Twilight rubbed a hoof across her runny nose and stared at Rarity through bloodshot eyes. "I hope this is worth it then. I'll be stuck with a sinus headache for awhile."

Twilight reeled as a tissue was shoved into her face, rubbing her nose clean.

"My word! A princess like you should be above wiping your nose in such a disgusting manner. Don't you dare touch that headdress with that hoof," Rarity commanded.

"Bite me."

Rarity continued her work in the relative silence of the boutique, only punctuated by the occasional clearing of Twilight's nose.

"Uh oh. I need to pick up the pace. Rainbow Dash will be here any moment."

Twilight stared at her quizzically. "Why would she be coming here?"

Rarity continued sewing, her eyes focused like a laser on the task at hand. "I received a commission from an athlete. She needs something with style, but flexible enough for a flyby at a Canterlot ceremony. She's quite a sleek and powerful pegasus, so Rainbow was an obvious choice."

"Huh. I'm surprised she agreed to do it. You know how much she hates sitting still."

"She's been extremely helpful as of late. Why, she's helped me with several projects over the last few weeks. It just gets difficult to do my job when she gets restless."

“Maybe it won’t take too long?” Twilight offered.

Rarity sighed. I’m afraid it will. There’s quite a few pieces that need to be changed. I just hope Rainbow can sit still long enough.”

Rainbow flapped lazily through Ponyville, wondering what Rarity would force her to wear. She soared close to the library and peeked inside, hoping to wave hello to Twilight. Instead, she saw Spike catching a nap on one of the tables.

I wonder where she is.

Rainbow pulled away from the window and buzzed over to Carousel Boutique. She alighted on the doorstep just as Scootaloo whizzed past. While watching the filly ride by, she reached out to knock on the door.

“Hey, Rainbow Da—ow!”

Rainbow jumped as she realized she had just hit Twilight square on the nose. “Oh gosh! I’m so sorry! I didn’t even know you were here!”

Twilight rubbed her nose. “It’s okay. If that doesn’t clear my sinuses, nothing will. I was just doing some modeling for Rarity. You know how she always has some weird project or something to work on.”

“Tell me about it,” Rainbow commiserated.

“Ahem! You do realize I can hear you out there, don’t you?”

“Sorry, Rarity. Anyway, I need to get back to the library. Who knows what mischief Spike’s gotten up to without me around.”

"Pshh. I just flew by there. The little guy was just catching some shut eye. I swear, Twilight, you worry too much."

The alicorn sighed. "Yeah, you're right. He's probably fine... I just can't help but worry. See you later, girls."

Rainbow watched as Twilight took to the skies. Suddenly, she felt envious. She knew it would probably be quite a while before she could fly again. Sighing in resignation, she walked into the boutique. It was immediately clear to her that Rarity was a bit worked up.

"You know, if you don't want to help, you don't have to!" Rarity snapped.

Rainbow covered her ears with her front hooves. "Jeez. We were just joking. It's not like I'd let you down or anything. You know I’m here to help when you need it.”

Rarity took a deep breath. "I know, I know. I'm sorry. This order just fell a bit behind and now I'm nearly out of time. It's due tomorrow so it has to be absolutely perfect before I can get any sleep." Rarity walked over and tapped on the modeling platform. "If you're ready, we'll get started. I'll try not to keep you here any longer than necessary."

The moment Rainbow had been dreading had finally come. With a long jump and flap of her wings, she landed on the platform. "All right. Let's get this over with."

It’s really not that bad.

Rainbow's hoof brushed along her side as she tried to pull the dress taut. Despite having some frills and sequins here and there, the dress was definitely more tailored to performance. It cinched in the perfect spots, and moved with her like a second skin. She lifted her back leg to test how it stretched.

"Please don't get antsy now. We aren't terribly far from being done," Rarity pleaded as she pulled the collar tight..

"I was just seeing how it moved with me, that's all."

Rarity ran a hoof across her side. "That's exactly why I chose this fabric in particular. Spandex or lycra puts so much pressure on a pony that it feels like they're being trapped. This new fabric pulls along with the pony, but when it meets resistance, it gives naturally. For a sleek and toned athlete like yourself, range of movement is very important. You have such a sleek yet powerful physique. Why, you could make a glorious subject for a sculptor.

"Yeah, I'd probably look pretty good in marble," Rainbow gloated.

"Too bad your humility is better suited to toilet tissue.”

The unicorn took a step back and placed a hoof to her chin. "Hmmm..."

"What? What's wrong?" Rainbow asked.

Wordlessly, Rarity walked up to her and started styling her hair.

"Hey! What are you doing!"

"I'm fixing your hair. The pony who will be wearing this outfit will have a decent hairstyle. Not the mop you usually wear.

Rainbow smacked her hoof away softly. "My hair is not a mop!"

Rarity sighed. "Poor choice of words. Your hair is quite... how shall we say... dynamic. The pony who will be wearing this dress will have a more ceremonial style. I would just like to make sure it looks well with this dress," Rarity explained with a look that said 'Please?'

Rainbow stewed over that for a moment before tossing her hair forward. "Alright, do your worst."

Rarity's eyes shined. "Eeeheehee! Thank you! I promise I'll fix it when I'm done!"

Rainbow relaxed while the unicorn went to work. Oddly enough, the moment she started braiding her hair, all of the tension built up inside the pegasus disappeared.

She couldn't deny it. Anytime Rarity messed with her hair, she secretly loved it. Tingles started at her scalp, and she closed her eyes as a soothing feeling washed over her.

"You have such unique and wonderful coloring, Rainbow."

"Mmmhmmm.”

"You know, most ponies would love to have hair like yours. It styles so well, and it's quite healthy, considering the abuse you subject it to."

Rainbow merely nodded, at least as much as she could without throwing Rarity off.

"Are you alright, Darling?"

"I'm just fine. Why?" Rainbow asked while keeping her eyes closed.

"Your wings are fluttering. Are you sure you're alright?"

Rainbow silently cursed her involuntary response to the wonderful feeling. She didn't really know what to say that would keep Rarity working on her hair. "I uhh... I'm just antsy is all. You know how I hate sitting still."

Rarity harrumphed. "Well, do be patient. The more difficult you make my job, the longer it will take."

Fine by me. Take as long as you want.

Rarity continued styling Rainbow's hair while the pegasus idly drank in the feeling. Such a wonderful feeling. Alas, everything must come to an end at some point, and it was with much disappointment that Rarity pulled away to fetch a mirror.

"Fini! Alright, Rainbow Dash, what do you think of this?"

Gazing back into the mirror, she saw herself staring back with a neatly braided mane. The colors swirled in the long braid until they met her scalp, where they joined with professional, yet feminine bangs.

To put it lightly, it was something she would never have done under her own will. Yet… she didn't hate it. In fact, she kind of liked it.

"Well? What do you think?"

Rainbow looked at Rarity's expectant eyes. She could say all sorts of things in reply, but there was only one right thing to say.

"Ugh. It's so not me."

As expected, Rarity looked like she swallowed a lemon.

"Little shock there. It's not like you'd up and decide to actually like something feminine once and awhile."

As hard as it was, Rainbow kept a neutral face. A small part of her wanted to tell Rarity exactly how she felt.

But that wouldn't be Rainbow Dash.

"Thank you, Rainbow Dash. I'm sure the dress will be absolutely perfect. I'll be leaving in the morning for Canterlot to ensure it fits her exactly right," Rarity explained as she pulled the dress off.

"Hey, you know... anything for a friend."

"You've been so helpful lately. Is there anything I could do to repay you?"

"Uhhh, I've got nothing. Consider this one on the house."

Rarity looked stunned. "On the house? Really? You’re not even going to pull a prank on me? No walking out in a raincloud for your amusement? Or, or, dropping a snake on me when I least expect it?"

"Heh heh... that was kind of funny, but no."

Rarity glowered. "I think we have different ideas as to what is funny. Nonetheless, thank you. Don't be surprised if I do something as a way of saying thanks anyway."

Rainbow started for the door until she felt something grab her.

"Wait. I haven't fixed your hair," Rarity said, lifting a comb nearby with her magic.

"I uh, I think I'll leave it like this until I get home."

The comb clattered to the ground. Rarity immediately rubbed a hoof against Rainbow's forehead. "Are you sick? You must be running a fever."

Rainbow pushed her hoof away. "I'm cool, Rarity. I just... don't trust you to get my mane right. Anyway, I'm out, see ya!"

Rainbow took off flapping into the night sky without looking back. She wasn't sure why she didn't demand Rarity to fix the damage she caused. She felt like a filly that had just stolen a candy and gotten away with it, without the guilty feeling. Once she had finally reached her cloud home, she threw open the door and ran to her bedroom in a manner much like her namesake. Without thinking, she reached under the bed and pulled out the coronation dress. After a little bit of a struggle, she finally got it on and ran to the mirror.

The pony staring back at her seemed like a complete stranger. No way she would ever willingly be caught outside in such a fancy outfit. Though she would never admit it to herself, there was something about it she couldn't deny.

She loved it.

A sigh escaped her lips as she stumbled to her bed. She didn't want to disrobe tonight. She slipped onto her bed and closed her eyes. The cloth felt so soft, so cool to her skin. As sleep overcame her, she felt for a moment that forbidden feeling she had avoided for so long.

She felt pretty.

Rainbow stirred slowly. She felt as if someone were shining a spotlight on her face. She covered her eyes with her hooves in a vain attempt to block it out.

"Hey, Rainbow Dash!"

Blinking through the bright light, she looked to her window, where the voice was coming from.

"D-Derpy?"

A grey mare with a blonde mane and two bright, shining eyes, slightly askew, looked at her through the window. "Good morning, Rainbow Dash! You look beautiful!"

Looking down at herself, she realized she was still wearing the outfit with her braided mane. She thought frantically for any way out of this mess.

"Oh... oh no! She struck again!" Rainbow cried out, throwing her hooves into the air.

Derpy looked puzzled. "Who struck again?"

Rainbow ran to the window and pulled Derpy inside. She glanced out to make sure no one else was around before snapping the curtains shut.

"The Mysterious Makeover Artist!"

Derpy tilted her head questioningly.

"Every night, a mysterious mare goes through Ponyville, looking for mares to dress up. When she finds them, Bam!" Rainbow clapped her hooves together, causing Derpy to flinch. "She dresses them up in dresses and gowns, and styles their mane so they look super girly!"

Derpy blinked rapidly. "How... awful?"

Rainbow jammed her hoof in Derpy's face. "You're darned right it's awful! Imagine, going to bed with your super awesome amazing mane cut, and then waking up to frills and braids! It's only, like, the most awful thing ever!"

Derpy tilted her head again. "Is there something we can do?"

Rainbow tossed off the dress and unbraided her hair. "Yes! First, don't tell anypony you saw me like this. Secondly, keep an eye out. If you see or hear somepony suspicious, hold onto them somehow and let me know. We can stop other ponies from feeling the same pain I do!"

Derpy saluted and smiled. "Right! I'll make sure to be especially aware of anypony suspicious."

Rainbow patted her on the back. "Now that's the Derpy I know. I can always count on you. Why are you here, anyway?"

"Applejack told me to fly up here and remind you that you were supposed to help her fix the rafters in the barn."

Rainbow slapped herself in the head. "Man. That's today? I never catch a break! Go tell her I'll be right there."

Derpy smiled and nodded. "Okay! See ya later, Rainbow Dash!"

Rainbow watched as the excitable pony opened and flew out her window. She looked at the dress lying on the floor and remembered how good it felt, for at least one night, to be somepony she wasn't allowed to be.

The train to Canterlot steamed along the tracks at a brisk pace. At this rate, Rarity deduced she would most likely arrive by noon.

"Thank you so much for coming with me, dear."

Fluttershy smiled from the other side of the seat. "It's my pleasure, Rarity. I know how much it can help to have a friend by your side."

Rarity fanned herself in a bid to keep occupied. "It's certainly comforting to have at least one friendly face in the room. These meetings can be quite intimidating."

"I don't think you'll have any trouble. You're a wonderful fashion designer, and Rainbow modeled the outfit for you. You should be just fine."

"Speaking of Rainbow Dash," Rarity said, biting her lip, "has she been acting unusual lately?"

Fluttershy's eyes went upward, lost in thought. "Ummm, not that I know of. Is something wrong?"

Perhaps I shouldn't make too much of it.

"She was just acting a bit unusual last night. I'm sure it was nothing. She's probably off doing something dirty, or roughhousing, as usual."

"Are you looking for some book in particular?"

"Gah!"

Rainbow Dash jumped back at the sudden interruption and placed the book she was holding under her butt. "Uhh not really! Just… seeing what you have and all! Heh heh..."

Twilight stared at her apprehensively. "Okay then..."

Rainbow waited until the alicorn turned and sat at a nearby table before pulling the book back out. The book featured countless hairstyles, each model wearing clothes she wouldn't be caught at her own funeral in.

Her eyes darted between the book and the room, making sure no one was watching while she skimmed through its pages. She quickly decided that it would have what she needed and tucked it away in her saddlebags.

"Thanks, Twilight. I think I found the book I was looking for. Bye!" she yelled as she sprang out the window.

"But I didn't even get a chance to record the book title!" Twilight called after her.

That was kinda the point! Now to find someplace quiet to try one of these.

On the outskirts of Sweet Apple Acres, Rainbow Dash sat next to a creek rather close to the Everfree Forest. She stared into the water at her own reflection, trying to get her hair to look like one of the models in the book.

Maybe it would look better if I separated the colors in my hair.

She quickly shook her head, undoing all the progress she had just made.

"I wonder how Rarity learned how to do all this junk in the first place."

"Oh, it's not hard with the right equipment and time."

Rainbow jumped up and hid behind a nearby tree trying to identify the owner of the voice. "W-who's there!"

"Somepony who can help you get what you want."

"P-Pinkie?"

The pink mare leaned against a nearby tree, sporting a brown trenchcoat complete with hat, sunglasses, and mustache.

"I don't know who this "Pinkie Pie" is, but my name is Thirteen, and I help out ponies just like you."

Rainbow narrowed her eyes. "Uhhh, what do you mean by that?"

Pinkie pulled out a bit and started flipping it into the air. "You know... ponies who want to be... 'pretty’.”

Rainbow jumped back in surprise. "Wha— what?"

'Thirteen' opened her coat, revealing a wide variety of beauty care products. Rainbow saw everything from hoof polish, to enchanted brushes that magically styled a pony's hair instantly.

"Uhhh, Pinkie."

"Thirteen."

"R-right, whatever. I'm not that big into this sort of thing, sooo I'm not interested."

Thirteen sighed and closed her coat again. "Alright, fine. If you change your mind, I have lots of ways to beautify a pretty little pegasus like you, and I'll even accept helium as payment."

Rainbow was more confused than ever. "If I change my mind I'll track you down. In the meantime, can you please keep this a secret?"

The pink mare pushed her sunglasses back onto her muzzle. "No worries. Confidentiality is important to me and my clients. Bye, Rainbow Dash!"

Thirteen slid back behind the tree she was leaning on and never came out the other side. Rainbow trotted forward and peered around only to realize nopony was there.

"What the hay just happened?"

"Opal-wopal! Momma's home, dear!"

Rarity walked through the door with her luggage behind her, ensnared in a blue glow. Looking around her showroom, she finally spied a set of sour eyes atop a shelf, glaring daggers at her.

"I know you're hungry, Opal, and I'm so sorry, but before I knew what was happening, Fluttershy and I were swept up into a social function. Why, there were so many high class ponies there, I couldn't even begin to remember them all."

The excuse fell on deaf ears.

"I know it's late, darling. I'll put these bags away and go get your food. Is that alright?"

Opal closed her eyes and began licking her paws in feigned disinterest until Rarity moved to the kitchen.

"Miss Contrails definitely had the physique for flying, but her hair didn't quite match up to Rainbow Dash's." Rarity sighed. "Just one time, I'd love to have a chance to completely make her over. Why, she would look stupendous!"

A scratch at her hooves brought Rarity's attention to the task at hand.

"Oh! Right. Sorry."

Hmmm... Maybe it's not too bad.

Rainbow turned her head from side to side, examining her hard work in the mirror. Her hair flowed down her neck like a multicolored waterfall, and her bangs were curled neatly in the front. All in all, it was definitely not a hairstyle she would ever wear in public.

And that's what excited her the most.

What are other ponies going to think when I start rocking this kind of hairstyle?

She couldn't hazard a guess. One thing she did know is that the attention was great. She saw the way the other ponies fawned over Rarity. Maybe that was what this whole urge was about. Maybe she just wanted more attention.

Or maybe she wanted something more.

Stares and raised eyebrows. The citizens of Ponyville let Rainbow know exactly what they thought of her hairstyle. She was right about the attention. She loved the way some of the stallions did a double take at her new do. So much so that after knocking on the boutique’s door, Rainbow used the extra time to flutter her eyebrows at an innocent bystander before Rarity opened the door.

"Oh, hello, Rainbo— whaaa?"

Rainbow walked inside, past the speechless unicorn with her jaw on the ground.

"Hey, Rarity. What do you think?" she asked, tossing her hair with a free hoof.

"Uhhh, well... it looks..."

"Pretty cool huh?"

Rarity ran to the front door and slammed it shut. With her magic, she moved a chair beneath the doorknob. Scrutinizing it more closely, she moved a cabinet in front of the door, too. Rarity ran to Rainbow with a speed that belied the pony's normal behavior.

"Don't worry, Rainbow. I don't know what's happened to you, but I'm going to find out. I may need to sneak over to Twilight's to find a book about curses. Come, I'll lead you to bed and you can rest up a bit."

Rainbow pushed the unicorn's hoof aside. "Rarity, I'm not sick or anything. I wanted to try a new mane style."

Rarity's eye twitched.

"I've been thinking about something else, too. About the times I come over and model for you and stuff. I want to ask you something, but I'm not sure how you'll react."

"I, uh—ahem—I suppose you should just ask then."

Rainbow closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "Rarity, would you, um... would you like to go out one night?"

Rarity's other eye twitched.

"Out... as in, out out?"

"Uh huh." Rainbow nodded.

"A date?"

"Yup."

Rarity stood perfectly still for a moment. Finally, her mouth twisted into a perfect scowl. "Rainbow Dash, I don't know what your game is, but you should know better than to play jokes about such things!"

For a brief moment, Rainbow's smile faltered. "Yeah. Ya know, this was kind of a dumb idea. Let's just forget it happened, okay?"

Rainbow flapped her wings and flew out one of the boutique's many windows without looking back.

Rarity stared as Rainbow flew out the window. She thought she had figured the whole scheme out. Rainbow and Pinkie had some sort of prank going, and she was the target.

But the look Rainbow let show said otherwise. For a fleeting moment, she saw a look that screamed disappointment. A sincere look beyond any sort of improvisation that the pegasus was capable of performing.

What is going on?

"Twilight, could I have a word with you?"

"Uh huh."

"It's about a good friend of ours; a certain pegasus with a penchant for bravado."

"Mmm hmmm."

Rarity cut her eyes at the alicorn. Though Twilight seemed to be acknowledging her friend’s presence, it was quite clear that her mind remained glued elsewhere. Namely, the book she was currently nosing through. Rarity used her magic to slam the book shut.

"Wha— hey!" Twilight exclaimed as she jumped back in surprise.

"Twilight Sparkle! I am trying to have a conversation here, and you appear to be lost in some dusty old book!"

Twilight let out a defeated sigh. "Okay. Let's hear it."

"Don't sound too eager," Rarity said, rolling her eyes. "It's about our mutual friend, Rainbow Dash."

"What about her?"

Rarity settled for a moment on what she should say. "There's uhhh, no easy or rather, believable way to say this, but... she asked me out on a date."

"..."

Twilight stared at Rarity, her face unreadable. That changed in a flash as the alicorn burst out in laughter and fell to the floor.

"Oh, Rarity! That's hilarious! You and Rainbow Dash! You two have come up with a great prank this time!"

Rarity shot a deadly glare at her. "I assure you, this is no joke! Rainbow stopped by the boutique with a hairstyle completely unlike something she would ever wear, and dropped that bombshell before flying out the window!"

By now, Twilight had recovered and staggered to her feet. "Rarity, she's probably just playing a joke on you. Maybe she and AJ have some sort of bet going."

"Believe me, I thought the same thing. When I told her such a joke was in poor taste, she had a very poor reaction."

"What do you mean, 'poor reaction’?" Twilight asked, finally taking the situation seriously.

"I mean, she looked quite distressed. Like, quitting the Wonderbolts distressed."

Twilight's eyes flew open in shock. "Wow."

"I know."

Twilight looked upwards in thought. "Maybe that's why she's been volunteering to model so much."

"But what does a mare like Rainbow Dash want with a pony like me?"

"Well," Twilight began, "you have many great qualities. I'm just not sure how they fit with Rainbow. If she does really and truly have feelings for you, maybe it's because you can give her something she can't find in another pony."

"I can't possibly imagine what that would be."

Twilight flipped her book back open to find where she had been interrupted. "I think the only way to find out will be to ask her yourself. Now shoo, and leave me to my books."

"Thanks, Twilight."

Rarity followed the sound of her friends’ voices to Applejack’s barn and peered inside. Applejack and Rainbow Dash, each holding a mug, sat beside a cart with a barrel of cider on tap resting on it.

As she expected, the pegasus did not bear the carefree smile she normally would. Instead, a thoughtful expression mixed with a frown graced her muzzle.

"I don't know what I was thinking, AJ."

Applejack took a long sip from her mug. "Ah bet ya just had to get it off your chest. Something like that don't just go away on it's own," the cowpony said, wiping the foam from her mouth.

"Ahem."

Applejack and Rainbow Dash both looked to the door, and their unexpected visitor..

"I thought it would be best to announce myself before I heard something I was not supposed to."

Applejack waved her over. "Why doncha c'mon over and come talk with us? Got some cold cider here if ya like."

Rarity offered an appreciative smile. "I'd love to, but I'm afraid I have pressing business with Rainbow Dash."

"Applejack already knows what happened, if that's what you're worried about," Rainbow stated.

"I... gathered as much. For being as bitter rivals as you two are, I would think you’d rather keep such details a secret."

Applejack laughed dismissively. "What? Me and Rainbow here tell each other everything. Nothing can't be worked out over a large mug of cider."

"That may be the case, but I would rather discuss this matter in private, please," Rarity stated in finality.

Rainbow motioned to Applejack.

"Jeez, alright. I'll be right outside when y’all are through," the cowpony said walking out the barn.

Rarity walked over and took a seat next to her friend. "About earlier..."

The expression on Rainbow's face changed completely to a frown. "Listen... let's just forget it ever happened, okay?"

"No, Rainbow. I can't just forget it happened. It's been eating at me ever since you said it. You can't simply unring this bell. What I want to know is... why?"

Rainbow scratched the back of her neck nervously. "Jeez, Rarity, it'll sound dumb. I don't wanna."

Rarity placed one of her snow white hooves on Rainbow's shoulder. "Please?"

"Fine,” the pegasus sighed. “So, I might be the best flyer in Equestria, I might be the hero or role model of some ponies..."

"And extremely modest, I might add," Rarity said, rolling her eyes.

"But, I've never felt... wanted."

Rarity nearly jumped back in surprise. "Wha—what?"

"Never mind, It's dumb anyway," the pegasus said, turning away. Rarity pulled her back and locked eyes with her.

"Tell me," she insisted.

"I know I act like I hate modeling for you, but, I actually kinda like it. You... you fix up my hair, and tell me that I look good, and... and you make me feel wanted."

Rarity understood what Twilight meant now. Seeing the shame and blush on Rainbow's face, it was clear she had finally gotten to the bottom of the whole ordeal. Sure, lots of ponies told Rainbow she had many desirable traits, but she didn't want it from everypony. She wanted it from one pony, and for that one pony to really and truly mean it.

"Oh, Rainbow, darling... of course you're wanted. there's just so much to admire in a pony like you. Honestly, I couldn't see what you would need in a pony like me."

“Hah! Are you kidding? Rarity, sometimes I think you know what I need better than I do, and that goes for everypony else, too! You go out of your way just to make us happy!” Rainbow stopped, toning down her excitement. “I don’t think everypony realizes that, sometimes. Even if you are kind of a wuss about getting dirty.”

A cackle came from outside of the barn. Rarity levitated a nearby hatchet and flung it into the wall where it came from without looking away.

"Alright! Okay, jeez!" Applejack exclaimed, running further away from the barn.

"Also, you’re a lot tougher than you look." Rainbow smirked.

Rarity smiled. "So, did you have a certain time in mind for this date, or do you need to think more upon it?"

Rainbow blushed. "You mean you want to... I uhhh, kinda had something in mind."

"Oh?"

"Y-yeah. Tomorrow, have Twilight do the cloudwalking thing to you, and be home for six."

Rarity smiled. "I sense something in the sky in our future."

"You'll see."

Rarity walked out of the barn and started back for Ponyville.

"Yes!" Rainbow shouted.

Rarity smiled at her outburst and continued walking.

The date

"Oooh, where did I put that marvelous magenta?"

Rarity dug through her makeup cabinet, opening and closing drawers rapidly to try and find her missing lipstick.

Suddenly, a knocking from the front door elicited a gasp from the unicorn.

"Oh no! She's here!" Rarity grabbed the nearest lipstick she could find and with a flourish, applied a fine layer.

"I suppose mauve will have to do. Coming!"

Rarity ran through the showroom and to the front door. She took a moment to compose herself and double-check the ruffles in her dress before answering.

"Good evening, Rainbow. I was just finishi—oh, my..."

Rarity's jaw dropped. Standing there on her doorstep was a sight she would never have imagined in her wildest dreams. Rainbow Dash smiled shyly at her. Dressed in a pink dress with purple highlights, she was nearly unrecognizable. She wore crystal shoes and light purple—almost pink—lipstick. Her hair, neatly separated, flowed straight down her neck and shoulders, and even her tail was neatly braided.

"Why... you look gorgeous!" Rarity exclaimed.

A bright crimson blush broke out on Rainbow's face. "Don't be ridiculous. I… I just clean up good."

"Where on earth did you get such a magnificent outfit?"

"I hope it's okay, but I kinda told Twilight about our date. She flew with me to Canterlot to help pick this out. I thought you might like it."

"Like it? I love it! I practically feel naked now!"

Rainbow smiled and blushed even harder. "Anyway, if you're ready, we'll go get dinner."

Rarity's smile faded just a little bit. "I suppose I am, but, are you sure this is safe?"

"No worries. I'll make sure nothing happens. Besides, I caught you once, you don't think I can do it again?"

"I wish you would stop bringing that up," Rarity said through clenched teeth."

"Heh heh, sorry. Are you ready?"

Rarity patted herself down and straightened her dress. "I suppose so."

Rarity walked out of her boutique, closing the door behind her. Her eyes went skyward and she took a deep breath. "Ready."

Rainbow’s strong arms wrapped around her, lifting her up with relative ease. All Rarity could do now is hang on and trust her friend..

"Here we are!" Rainbow gently let go of Rarity to make sure she didn't plunge through the clouds.

The unicorn tugged a few wrinkles out of her dress. "I'm rather shocked you flew so slow."

“Yeeeah, well I know how you hate getting your clothes all messed up and stuff."

Rarity smiled. "Well, thank you. That was very thoughtful of you. So, you dragged me all the way to Cloudsdale. I assume you have some place in mind."

Rainbow nodded. "Yeah, follow me," she said, breaking into a slow trot.

The evening sun had fallen below the cloudline, and it wouldn't be long before the entirety of Cloudsdale went dark, apart from the street lights.

"You were raised here, weren't you?"

Rainbow nodded. "Sure was! Cloudsdale is the premiere city for pegasi. We put out the best fliers in all of Equestria!"

"You mean ponies like yourself?" Rarity asked with a cynical tone.

"Yup. Here we are."

Rainbow and Rarity stood in front of a large building that looked more like a concert hall than a restaurant.

"'Plumes Aussi Frivole', supposedly the finest restaurant in all of Cloudsdale... at least according to those weird magazines Twilight gets."

Rarity stood stockstill as the pegasus marched toward the entrance.

"Aren't you coming?" asked Rainbow.

Rarity bit her lip. She did actually want to see what the place was like, having read about it before in Twilight's 'weird magazines'.

But, something stopped her.

"You've never been here before, have you?"

Rainbow turned to face her. "Huh?"

"This restaurant. You've never been here before, have you?"

Rainbow scowled. "No, I haven't. Jeez, not all of us got to go to places like this when we were growing up, or even wanted to."

"Then I'm not going," Rarity stated, turning her nose up.

"Wh—what? Why not?"

"You went through all of the trouble to get me here to Cloudsdale, a city you seem to love so much, and the first place you try to take me is some restaurant you've never been before. How does that make sense?"

Rainbow's eyes narrowed, deep in thought. "I uhhh, I just wanted to take you some place special?"

Rarity walked forward and gave a gentle smile. "Then take me someplace that means something to you."

Rainbow bit her lip. "Are you sure? The places I used to hang aren't exactly up to your standards."

"Rainbow, don't you remember when we all ate at Pony Joe's after the gala?"

"Good point.."

A ringing bell filled the air, catching the attention of the pony behind the counter.

"Welcome to The Dine and Dash, what can I get for—holy smokes!"

Rainbow walked over to the counter and patted one of the stools. Rarity hopped up next to her.

"Hey, Vittles. We're starving. What's still good, and by good, I mean least likely to put us in the hospital?"

Vittles narrowed his eyes, his face taking on a disapproving look. "I don't believe it. After all this time, who all but Miss Sonic Fricken Rainboom comes marching into my diner wearing a dress more expensive than a week of my pay."

"It's not that expensive," Rainbow protested.

"Hah! You sure you're the same filly that knocked those two bullies senseless? You look like you got all frou frou'd up," the older pony teased.

"I assure you, Rainbow here still likes to get dirty," Rarity said, cutting her eyes at the pegasus.

The older pony turned to Rarity. "And you? A vision of beauty gracing a dump like this. You girls sure know how to overdress. What brings you two here tonight?"

"To eat, obviously, old man," Rainbow said, grinning wryly.

The gruff old pony laughed heartily. "Ha ha ha! I don't know why you came here, then. Only thing you'll get here is a case of indigestion!"

Rarity leaned into Rainbow's ear. "Is the food here really that bad?"

"Nah, me and Vittles just have a bit of fun," Rainbow reassured her. "Anyway, what's still good here, old man?" she asked, turning back to Vittles.

"Ponies say I make the best darn hay fries a thousand feet off the ground, so that's an easy choice. Since you last been here, I added a grilled cheese with basil and tomato sandwich that's been featured in one of them fancy pants foodie magazines."

Rainbow looked to Rarity who gave an approving nod.

"Alright. Give us two of those, an order of hay fries each, and two of the chocolate chip ice cream milkshakes, too."

"You got it, Rainbutt. You two hang tight and I'll have it done in no time," Vittles said as he moved to the kitchen.

"Just one little thing, darling," Rarity said. "Instead of two milkshakes, make it ‘The Heartthrob’."

Vittles raised his eyebrow for a moment before firing Rainbow a sly grin. "So this is a date then. You lucky devil."

"Don't you have something to cook?" Rainbow asked as she shooed the older pony away. Vittles let out a hearty laugh and retired to the kitchen.

"The Heartthrob?"

Rarity cleared her throat. "I do happen to read those ‘fancy pants foodie magazines’, and they highly recommended it for a romantic date. Now it's time I asked you something."

"What's that?"

"Rainbutt?"

Rainbow snickered. "We kinda joked with each other a lot. Vittles is a cool guy. We used to come here everyday after school."

"We?"

Rainbow pulled a straw out of the dispenser and started toying with it. "Yeah. Me and Fluttershy. See, one day, after school let out, I met Fluttershy for the first time. She was walking out the doors, looking pathetic and with a growling stomach. It took some work, but I finally got her to tell me what was wrong. She told me some bullies had stolen her lunch money, so she had to skip that day."

"How wretched!" Rarity scowled.

"I know. So after school, I marched her down here and gave her my lunch money to eat here instead," Rainbow explained.

"Wait... your lunch money?"

"Yeah. I never liked the food at school, so I saved it until I got out and came here everyday instead. Vittles isn't dumb. When he saw me give Fluttershy my money, he made a lunch for me too, on the house. From that day forward, we ate here together everyday after school."

Rarity smiled. "What a great story. I guess it goes to show, not all gentlecolts wear a suit."

"Yeah, Vittles is cool."

"Here you are ladies. One Heartthrob Milkshake."

Both ponies sat in stunned silence. Vittles had placed a retro-style mug between them; the kind anypony would expect to find at a place like this, the only difference being that it was a little over one foot tall. The hulking monstrosity had been adorned by two straws, which bent into a heart shape in the middle.

"My word, Rainbow Dash. I'm not sure we can drink all of this."

"This was your idea!"

"I know, and it seemed terribly romantic until right at this very moment."

"Don't forget your sandwiches, ladies," Vittles teased as he laid the plates out in front of them.

"We're doomed!" Rainbow cried out in anguish as her head fell to the counter.

"Ugggh. This was a very bad idea," Rainbow groaned.

The diner was empty apart from the two ponies and Vittles, who had moved to the kitchen to clean the dishes left over from the day. Between Rarity and Rainbow Dash sat two empty plates, and one empty monstrosity of a mug.

"I can't believe we finished the whole thing. I thought it would never end," Rarity lamented. "It did taste sooo good, though."

Rainbow clutched her bulging stomach and let her head rest on the counter. "I think I'll need to do some serious training tomorrow to work this off."

Rarity, too, let her head fall to the counter. Their eyes connected under the flourescent lighting, and a smile spread across both of their faces.

"I'm really glad we did this," Rarity said.

"Me too."

They sat quietly for some time, enjoying the feel of the cool counter upon their faces.

"Rainbow?"

"Hmm?"

"Would you mind if I ask you something?"

"Ummm, only if I can ask you something back."

"Why me?"

Rainbow blushed. "I thought we already talked about this at the barn."

"Yes, yes, but it was hardly a complete explanation. So let's hear it."

Rainbow lifted her head. "You let me be... well, me. Anytime I'm with somepony else, I have to constantly think about how I look to others. You don't care about that stuff though. If I wear some silly dress, I know you won't make fun of me for it. I'm tired of always being what everypony thinks I am. I want to be who I want."

"I suppose I could see that."

“Okay, my turn. Why did you say yes?"

"I'm not really sure. When you first asked, I had never really thought of you in that way. After you asked, however, it was all I could think about. I wondered why in Equestria you felt like asking me of all ponies out. After I realized you were serious, I began thinking more about it, and suddenly, I started to see you in a different light."

Rarity put her hoof out toward the pegasus. Rainbow smiled and took the offered hoof and squeezed it gently.

"What do you think the other ponies will say?" asked Rainbow.

"I don't know. It doesn't matter. I couldn't care less. All I know is how I feel, and right now, I feel happy."

The flight back to Ponyville was even slower than the one to Cloudsdale. Weighed down by a hearty meal, Rainbow took her time getting back. She hovered at the boutique's front door, allowing Rarity to get a solid foothold before lowering her gently. Once the unicorn had settled herself, Rainbow touched down as well. The silence between them grew longer.

"I, uhhh, had a really good time tonight," Rainbow said as a blush broke out on her face.

"Me too. We absolutely must do this again one day."

The quiet sounds of the night took hold as they both fell silent. .

"Well, I guess that's that. I'll catch ya later!" Rainbow said as she turned to take off.

"Oh no you don't!"

Rarity lunged forward and bit Rainbow's tail, yanking her back.

"Woah! What are you doing?"

Rainbow fell back, hitting Rarity and sending them into a roll. Once they had stopped, Rarity shook off the impact and looked down at the pegasus beneath her.

"When you take somepony out on a lovely date like that, the only proper way to end it is with a kiss. Allow me."

Rainbow's cheeks went bright red as their lips met. Her natural instinct was to run or fly away, but she fought the urge. Soon, she relaxed into the kiss, letting her tensed muscles ease. Rarity slowly pulled away, savoring the look of amazement and surprise on Rainbow's face.

"Now that is how you end a date."

"That was… great! Wait no… it’s way more than that, it’s…"

“Awesome?” Rarity suggested.

“Took the words right out of my mouth. You know, you've got grass and stuff in your mane."

Rarity turned and made for her door. "Good. I believe a bubble bath would be the perfect way to end such a lovely day. Good night, Rainbow Dash,"

Rainbow watched as the door shut behind the unicorn. She put her arms behind her head and laid back on the ground, content to spend a few more minutes looking into the starry night before heading home.

Author's Note

My first time at writing Raridash. I had a hard time making this ship work and the only angle I could think to attack it from was Rainbow's insecurity of her image.
In the end, I'm rather pleased with how it turned out, and I hope you are too.

Epilogue

Five months later

"No, no. Tomorrow night I've got to kick up a storm."

"Drat! I was looking forward to going to that hole in the wall in Hoofington too."

Rarity and Rainbow sat in bed together. The pegasus had made herself comfy lying mostly in Rarity's lap. The unicorn flipped through her schedule while playing with Rainbow's hair using her magic.

"We could go the day after tomorrow," Rainbow suggested.

"No. I've got a tremendous order due the next day. I'll have to work all night to ensure it'll be ready in time."

Rainbow rolled over and slung her hoof around Rarity's neck. "Ya know, I'm not the perfect pony to tell you this or anything, but you probably wouldn't have to pull all-nighters if you made your dresses sometime before, ya know, the day they’re due?"

"I don't choose when inspiration hits! It just comes when it wants to!"

"Or when your back is to the wall," Rainbow added as she turned back over.

"Quiet you."

Rainbow did just that. She fell quiet and let the unicorn gently brush through her hair, enjoying every moment. It wasn't long before she inevitably drifted off. Rarity continued flipping through her schedule to find a suitable time to change their date to. Absent-mindedly, she began braiding Rainbow’s long mane.

The sound of wood moving caught Rarity’s attention. She looked around the room to find out what caused it when her eyes fell on the window. It was open and the curtains were gently flapping in the wind.

“Hmmm, that’s unusual…”

“Got you!”

Rarity jumped as two hooves caught her and pulled her off the bed.

“Let me go this instant!”

Rainbow stirred at the commotion, slowly lifting her head. “What in the hay is going on?”

Derpy stood next to the bed, keeping Rarity restrained.

“I got her, Rainbow Dash! Now you won’t have to wake up pretty ever again!”

Rainbow gave Rarity an apologetic smile. “Uhhh, thanks, Derpy. I knew I could count on you.”