Is she worth it?by manucciaChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4EpilogueChapter 1It was a beautiful night in Canterlot and the city was alive celebrating the recent marriage of Princess Cadence and Captain Shining Armor. Soarin’ was sitting on a balcony in the palace thinking about the previous day. ‘I didn’t even want to come this wedding.’ Soarin’ thought. ‘It was going to be like every social event the Wonderbolts are invited to. I would spend all night chatting up a bunch of stuck up ponies that only care that I am Wonderbolt. They don’t want to know Soarin’ the Wonderbolt, but a Wonderbolt who happened to be named Soarin’. He sighed as he stared at the moon climbing into the night sky. But in the end this day turned out alright, if you ignore the whole Changeling invasion of course. His thoughts turned to a certain Rainbow maned mare as a blush spread across his face. ‘I can’t believe she wanted to dance with me. Maybe I should tell her how I feel; she might give me a chance’. As Soarin’ thought a familiar voice broke his concentration. “Hey, Soarin’ what’s up?” Soarin’ turned around and saw Rainbow Dash trotting up to him. “Ohh nothing much, how about you?” He asked as a wave of nervousness rolled over him. “Awesome as always” Rainbow boastfully said as she puffed out her chest. “That umm… was a pretty awesome Sonic Rainboom you did” Soarin’ said. He felt beads of sweat forming on his forehead and his forelegs started to shake slightly. ‘Why do I have to be so nervous; why can’t I be confident like she is.’ "Hay yeah it was!" She exclaimed. “So, what are you doing out here?” Rainbow inquired. “Just thinking I guess” he replied. “What about?” She asked as she sat beside him. “About today, and how much I dislike going to events like these.” “It looked like you were enjoying yourself when I danced with you.” Rainbow said slightly confused. “What didn’t you like about the wedding?” “I did enjoy dancing with you.” He hesitated a bit. “But every time the Wonderbolts are invited to social events I am always surrounded by ponies that only care that I am a Wonderbolt. I just wish somepony cared about whom I am, not what I am.” Rainbow didn’t know what to say. She felt bad because she had been like every other pony. She saw him as a Wonderbolt first and Soarin’ second. She looked down at her hooves and thought for a bit. After a few moments she looked up into Soarin’s emerald eyes and said. “Well I would like to get to know you, Soarin’.” Soarin’ looked at the mare sitting beside him and said, “I would like to get to know you too.” ‘I might get a chance to tell her after all.’ Soarin’ thought starting to cheer up a bit. “Hey Rainbow, can I ask you something.” “Yeah sure” she said. “Would you like to go ou… uhh…. Would you like to hang out sometime? I mean if you are free, it’s cool if you don’t want to.” Soarin’ rambled on. “Really, I would love to hang out with you!” Rainbow said ecstatically. “I don’t have practice for a few days, so how about tomorrow?” he asked. “Sure, I’ll meet you down in Ponyville around noon. I have to clear a few clouds in the morning.” “Cool, but can you just to keep this to yourself” he asked her. “Why?” Rainbow asked. “Well if it gets out that I am going to be in Ponyville I am going to be swamped with ponies wanting autographs. I want to hang out with Rainbow Dash, not Rainbow Dash and half of Equestria.” He explained. “Ok, I’ll see you tomorrow.” Rainbow said before she flew off. Soarin’ was happy. He might not have asked Rainbow on a date, but this was the next best thing. ‘I might get the chance to tell her how I feel.’ But something was nagging at him, but he couldn’t put his hoof on it. ‘Ohh well it’s probably nothing important.’ He began to trot back to the reception when he spotted a ticked off Spitfire standing in the corridor staring at him. “Care to explain what you are doing, Soarin’?” Spitfire asked with a hint of anger in her voice. “W-what are you talking about Spitfire?” Soarin’ asked avoiding Spitfire’s gaze. “You know exactly what I am talking about!” Spitfire nearly yelled. “I saw the way you looked at that mare. What’s her name, Rainbow Dash right?” Soarin’ nodded. “You like her don’t you?” Spitfire asked It finally donned on him, one of the first things he was told when he joined the Wonderbolts. Wonderbolts are not allowed to be romantically involved with anypony. He collapsed on his haunches. ‘I am not dating Rainbow, but I want to. I was going to ask her.’ Soarin’ thought. He looked up at Spitfire. “What do I do Spitfire?” He pleaded. “You break it off as soon as possible” she stated. “Is that coming from Spitfire, Captain of the Wonderbolts; or Spitfire my friend?” “Captain.” She looked at Soarin’; he was shaking like a leaf and looked like he was on the verge of crying. She walked over to him and put a hoof on his shoulder. “Do you want to know what Spitfire the friend thinks?” She asked him. He nodded. “I think you like Rainbow Dash very much; I want you to be happy Soar.” Spitfire said trying to calm him down. “Do you know if she likes you?” She asked. “I don’t know, I was going to ask her tomorrow.” Soarin’ stated. “But it doesn’t matter now, even if she does want to go out with me I am just going to have to break her heart.” “If it works out and if you can keep your relationship secret, I won’t tell anypony.” She said. "What do you mean?" He asked. "I mean if she says yes, I want you to date her." She explained. “Why?” He asked. “Soar, you are my oldest and best friend. I want you to be happy.” She said as she drew him into a hug. All Soarin’ could say is, “Thanks.” After a few moments they broke their hug and Spitfire began to trot off. She turned back to Soarin’, “I guess I will see in a few days a practice. Good luck with Rainbow.” Soarin’ turned back to look off the balcony and thought about the coming day. ‘This might work out after all. I can’t wait for tomorrow.’ He took off towards his home in Cloudsdale; he had a big day a head of him. Chapter 2Celestia’s glorious sun was rising over the horizon, for it was morning in Cloudsdale. Soarin’ began to stir from his slumber, curled up in his cloud bed. He sat up in his bed and trotted over to the window in bedroom admiring the sun rise. ‘I have always loved the view from my house.’ As a Wonderbolt Soarin’ made a quite a lot of bits, but he never he never really cared about bits. He lived in a fairly small house that resided on the edge of the city. Looking out in the distance he could see the quaint town of Ponyville. ‘It must be nice living in a small town.’ Soarin’ thought. While he loved Cloudsdale, he grew up here, and he loved being a Wonderbolt; he always wanted to live in a town like Ponyville. His mind soon became overrun with images of Rainbow Dash. ‘She is one of the best fliers I have ever met, aside from Spitfire. She is so confident and beautiful; I would do anything to be with her. All I want is to have her wake up at my side, to be able to fly with her, and to enjoy my life with her.' Soarin’ was never really in to romance, most of his life he was focused on his goal of getting in the Wonderbolts. ‘I love being a Wonderbolt; I wouldn’t give it up for anything.’ He thought as he slowly walked out of his bedroom towards his kitchen. Upon arriving he went into the refrigerator and pulled his favorite meal. It was a big slice of apple pie that he brought home from the wedding. He sat down at the kitchen table with his pie and a cup of hot coffee. He finished his breakfast and began to get ready for his day with Rainbow Dash. He trotted into his bathroom and into the small shower. Showers in Cloudsdale were interesting, while most pegasi would buy specifically designed showers. Soarin’ would just use a makeshift raincloud, and his experience working with weather control made this an easy task. As he tried to start his shower, he found out it was out for water. ‘Of all days my raincloud could stop working it has to be today.’ Soarin’ thought as he groaned. ‘I don’t even have time to make a new one, oh well I can just fly through some clouds on my flight to Ponyville. That should good enough.’ He made his way to the front porch of his house and took off towards the small town. Soarin’ loved flying, the wind flowing through his mane it made him feel alive. Down in Ponyville Rainbow Dash was finishing up her weather responsibilities. She only had a few more clouds to clear before she could go meet Soarin’. ‘I am going to be hanging out with a Wonderbolt, and not just any Wonderbolt. I am going to hanging out with Soarin’, my favorite Wonderbolt.’ She always did admire Soarin’. After a few minutes she finished clearing the last cloud. ‘I’m finally done, time to go find Soarin.’ Rainbow began to fly towards her cloud home when she heard a pony caller her. “Hey, Rainbow!” Soarin’ yelled. Rainbow turned around and saw Soarin’ flying towards her. She sped over to greet him. “Hey Soarin’, what’s up?” “I am doing ok.” Soarin’ replied. “I didn’t know you were a weather pony.” He chuckled a bit. “What’s wrong with that?” Rainbow asked with a bit of anger in her voice. “Nothing, nothing at all,” Soarin’ said. “Before I joined the Bolts, I was a weather pony.” “Oh my gosh really!” Rainbow said brim with excitement. “Yeah, it wasn’t the best job, but I loved that it gave me plenty of time to practice my flying.” He stated. “That’s so awesome, so what did you want to do?” “I was thinking a friendly race to see who the better flyer is?” Soarin’ asked. “Ohh you are on.” Soarin’ began to look around for a suitable finish line, and then he spotted a large cloud floating over the Everfree forest. “Ok, first one to that cloud wins.” Soarin’ said pointing to the cloud. “Let’s do this!” Rainbow said getting ready. “On the count of three: 3 2 1 go.” Soarin’ and Rainbow took off towards their destination. They were neck and neck for about half of the race, and then Soarin’ started to pull ahead. “You need to do better than that if you want to win!” Soarin’ yelled back towards Rainbow. Rainbow was determined, she hasn’t lost a race yet and she wasn’t about to start. She started going faster and the sounds barrier started to bend around her until. *Crack* She broke the sound barrier, and pulled off her 4th ever Sonic Rainboom. Soarin’ finally got to the cloud and he stopped dead in his tracks, his mouth agape staring the Rainbow maned mare. Rainbow fell over laughing, “you should see the look on your face.” Soarin’ finally got it together and said. “That awesome, it looks like you won.” “Hay yeah I did, that’s why I am the fastest pegasus in Equestria.” She said proudly. “I guess you are.” Soarin’ said as he sat down next to her on the cloud. “So, are you from Ponyville?” “No, I grew up in Cloudsdale.” She replied. “Really, I love it up in Cloudsdale, but what is it like down in Ponyville?” Soarin’ asked. “It’s ok I guess.” Rainbow stated. “I’ve always wanted to live in a small town like this, how do you like being a weather pony?” Soarin’ asked. “It’s not my dream job, but it gives me time to practice for the Wonderbolts.” Rainbow and Soarin’ spent the next few hours talking with each other about their lives, favorite flying tricks, and just about everything. “I really enjoyed spending time with you Rainbow.” He said with a large grin on his face. “I had fun today, and I would love to hang with you again.” “How about tomorrow?” He asked hopefully. “Sure, I can’t wait.” “Ok, I’ll see you tomorrow Rainbow.” Soarin’ said before he flew off back towards his home in Cloudsdale. Rainbow enjoyed her day with Soarin’, but she felt weird. For some reason she felt empty inside, but she didn’t know why. ‘Why am I feeling like this?’ Rainbow asked herself and groaned. She began to think back to her day with Soarin’. ‘Soarin’ is pretty cool. But also a bit goofy, but he is kind of cute.’ She began to think of him his gorgeous emerald eyes. ‘Wait where did that come from, ugh why can’t I stop thinking about his handsome smile. Could I like Soarin’? Why is this so confusing?’ Rainbow had no idea what to do. ‘I know I’ll go see Fluttershy, she might know what this means.’ With that she sped off towards the yellow Pegasus’s cottage. After a short flight she reached her destination. She trotted up to the door and knocked and she was greeted by the yellow pony. “Oh, hi Rainbow Dash.” She shyly said. “Hi Fluttershy, I need some advice, can I come in?” Rainbow asked. Fluttershy nodded and they walked in and sat down at a small table in the kitchen. “Would like some tea?” The timid pony asked. “No thanks.” “Ok, well what’s wrong?” Fluttershy could see that Rainbow looked kind of nervous. Rainbow knew what she wanted to say, but words were not forming. “I can’t stop thinking about somepony and I don’t know why.” Rainbow explained. “Well I know you have never really been interested in romance, but maybe you like this pony.” Fluttershy offered. “Who is this pony, I mean if you don’t mind me asking.” “Well, you promise not to tell anypony.” “I promise I would never do that to you Rainbow.” Fluttershy assured. “Well, it’s Soarin’.” Rainbow said as she started to slightly blush at the thought of the stallion. “You mean the Wonderbolt?” Fluttershy inquired. “Yeah, I think I have a crush on him.” Rainbow responded. “I can’t stop thinking about him.” “Are you sure it is not just because he is a Wonderbolt?” “I don’t know” Rainbow groaned. “Well what how do you feel when you think about him?” She asked. Rainbow thought for a moment. “Well, I feel happy, like I want him to be with me. I feel empty when he isn’t around.” “Oh wow, that’s amazing Rainbow.” Fluttershy said as a grin spread across her face. “What do you mean!?! I don’t know what it means!” Rainbow was getting frustrated. “Rainbow I think it means you like Soarin’.” She answered. “So what do I do?” Rainbow asked. “Well, maybe you should tell him, if you want to.” “I don’t know, but I need to think about this. Thanks Fluttershy, you are a great friend.” Rainbow said as she got up and headed for the door. “Oh it’s no problem Rainbow Dash, good luck with Soarin’.” Rainbow took off towards home as the sun began to set. Back in Cloudsdale Soarin’ was in his bed thinking about the day he had with Rainbow Dash and he couldn’t wait to see her again. Chapter 3It was a beautiful morning and Celestia’s glorious sun was slowly rising over the horizon. Soarin’ was gliding down from his home in Cloudsdale to the small town of Ponyville. Flying was Soarin’s passion. He loved the feeling of the wind flowing through his mane. The other thing he loved as much as flying was a fresh baked apple pie. Soarin’ was excited for the coming day because he was going to spending it with the self-proclaimed ‘fastest flyer in Equestria’, Rainbow Dash. ‘Today is the day. I am going to tell Rainbow how I feel about her.’ Soarin’ was nervous about his upcoming confession to the rainbow maned mare. ‘What if she doesn’t want to date me? What if she isn’t into Stallions?’ He worried about being rejected by the mare, but what worried him the most was just the opposite. ‘I am not even supposed to be dating as a Wonderbolt. If she says yes I am going to have to tell her. What if she thinks I am just trying to take advantage of her?’ Soarin’ just hoped if Rainbow said yes, that she would understand that their relationship would have to be secret. That she would still give him a chance. Soarin’ could see Ponyville approaching in the distance and Rainbow Dash’s cloud home on the just outside of the city limits. As he was approaching Dash’s house he could see a dark Pegasus talking to Rainbow Dash on her front porch. His coat was black with a light blue almost silver mane. ‘Who could that be?’ Soarin wondered. ‘What if Rainbow is already interested in a pony. What if this pony is Rainbow’s coltfriend?’ Soarin’ was getting nervous. ‘I’ll just ask her, find out who he is.’ After a few moments he saw the pony fly off and Soarin’ sped off to see Rainbow. “Hey, Dash.” Soarin’ landed right in front of Rainbow. He could see that she looked a little upset. “Oh hey Soarin’.” Rainbow replied with a hint of disappointment in her voice. “I’m sorry but I can’t hang out with you today. Thunderlane’s little brother Rumble is sick and he has to take care of him. So I have to cover his weather shift.” “That’s ok Rainbow I understand.” Soarin’ said. Soarin’ thought for a moment trying to find a way to salvage his plan. “How would you like to have dinner at my place tonight?” He asked with hope in his voice. Rainbow was taken aback by Soarin’s question. ‘Is he asking me on a date?’ She wondered. “Sure Soarin’. That would be awesome.” Rainbow said with a slight blush on her face. “Ok Rainbow, want to meet around 4?” Rainbow nodded. “I’ll see you tonight Rainbow.” Soarin’ flew off back to his home. He had an important dinner tonight. Soarin’ was pacing in his living room. It was almost time for his dinner with Rainbow. Tonight was going to be the night was going to admit his feelings for the mare. ‘I need to stallion up and tell her. I can’t be weak. I need to be brave like her.’ Soarin’ mentally berated himself. He knew even if Rainbow wanted to date him, and even if Rainbow didn’t beat the feathers off him because their relationship would have to be secret. Soarin’ knew that every time they be with each other his career would be at risk. ‘If our relationship were to get out I will be asked if I want to keep my spot of the Wonderbolts or my relationship with Rainbow Dash. To give up my foalhood dream or to figuratively rip out Rainbow’s heart and stomp on it. I hope it doesn’t….’ Soarin’s thoughts interrupted by a knock on his door. “Coming.” Soarin said as he trotted over to the front door. He slowly opened to the door to be greeted by a rainbow maned mare. She had a small smile on her face and mane glowed in the sunlight. ‘She looks so beautiful.’ Soarin’ shock himself out of his daze. “Hey, Rainbow thanks for coming.” “No problem, Soarin’ I would never want to miss an opportunity to have dinner with the 2nd coolest Pegasus to come out of Cloudsdale.” Rainbow stated as she puffed out her chest in pride. Soarin’ cocked his head at Rainbow’s statement. “Second?” He asked with a chuckle. “Yeah, you’re looking at number one right here.” She said proudly. Both of the ponies broke down laughing. After a few moments when they regained their composure Soarin’ said. “I think I can live with that Dash. Why don’t you come in and I can get dinner started.” Soarin’ led Rainbow into his humble abode and the two pegasi made their way into the kitchen. “So what’s on the menu anyway?” Rainbow inquired. “I thought we could bake up some apple pie.” Soarin’ stated as he began to gather the ingredients from the various cabinets. “That sounds cool.” Rainbow trotted over to Soarin’ who was beginning to mix the pie crust. He was slowly mixing the dry and wet ingredients to make the perfect pie crust, while Rainbow was chopping up a bushel of apples. The two ponies finished up their work on the two pies and Soarin’ placed them in the oven. Soarin’ turned around and saw Rainbow sitting there giving him a quizzical look. “What’s with you and pie?” Rainbow inquired. Soarin’s ears drooped at the question. “Ohh… it’s just that… that….” Soarin’ hung his head as he stammered out his response. “It’s nothing something I usually talk about.” “Oh I’m sorry I shouldn’t have brought it up.” Rainbow said remorsefully. “No it’s not your fault. I lost my dad when I was young and my mom a few years ago. She used to always ask me to help her bake an apple pie whenever I would be having a bad day.” Soarin’ began to slightly tear up as he spoke about his mother. “I still miss her and it is just my way of remembering her I guess.” All Rainbow could do is walk over to the slightly shaking stallion and pull him into a hug trying to calm him. ‘I need to tell her.’ Soarin’ thought. “R-r-rainbow can I ask you something?” Soarin’ stuttered. Rainbow nodded. “Are you seeing anypony?” Rainbow pulled away from the hug with the stallion. “No, I have never really thought about romance and stallions. I have been focused on getting into the Wonderbolts” Rainbow thought for a moment. “That is until recently.” Hope filled Soarin’ with Rainbow’s response. “It’s just that…. You have been a good friend and you are one of the few ponies that I now that cares more about me as a pony than the uniform.” Soarin’ said stringing out his confession looking for the right words. ‘Do it!’ “I really like you Rainbow.” Soarin’ blurted out. “What?!? You…. Me… you like me?” “Yeah.” Soarin’ said timidly as he shrunk away from the mare expecting the worst. “I understand if there is somepony else you like. I’m sorry I shouldn’t….” Rainbow silenced him with her hoof. “No it’s not that. It’s just that I think I kind of like you too. But I am not really good with romance and stuff.” Rainbow confessed. Soarin’ was shocked. ‘Rainbow likes me. She really does.’ Soarin’ was happy, he told Rainbow how he felt about her and she likes him. ‘She might actually give me a chance.’ Soarin’s happiness slowly faded as he remembered that he had to tell Rainbow that he isn’t supposed to be dating. ‘I hope she doesn’t hate me.’ “There is something I need to tell you Rainbow.” He said fearfully. “it’s just that Wonderbolts are not supposed to be romantically involved with anypony.” Soarin’ watched as Rainbow smiling face transformed to one of anger and disappointment. “But Spitfire told me that if I am discrete she would help me keep a relationship. Also, my contract is up for renewal next year and I can adjust it so it allows us to be together. But if you never want to see me again or you hate me I understand.” Rainbow didn’t know what to say. Part of her was angry because Soarin’ just told her that he liked her, but wasn’t supposed to be dating her. The other part of her still wanted to be with him and knew he wouldn't try to take advantage of her. “Soarin’ I’m not sure what to say. I still would like to be with you. But I feel guilty if I risk your spot on the Wonderbolts, and that I would have to lie about us.” Rainbow explained. “All I can ask is that you give me a chance.” Soarin’ hoped that she would. As he waited for her response Soarin’ was getting nervous. After a few minutes of waiting Rainbow pulled him into another hug which he happily returned. “So you’re going to give me a shot?” Soarin’ asked hopefully. “What do you think ya big goof.” Rainbow chuckled. “I think… I think…” Soarin’ was saying as he heard the oven timer go off. “I think I need to check our apple pies.” Soarin pulled out of the mare’s embrace as she face-hoofed, and he went to check on the two apple pies. He pulled them out of the oven and sat them down on the nearby table. The two ponies began to dig into their pie. All Soarin’ could think about is his new marefriend. ‘I can’t believe it. Rainbow Dash is my marefriend.’ After they finished eating Soarin’ put the empty pie tins in his sink and they decided to watch the sunset on a cloud sitting above Soarin’s home. The two ponies talked about their upbringings in Cloudsdale and flight school experiences. Rainbow told Soarin’ about her friends and how she helped defeat Nightmare Moon and Discord. Soarin’ told Rainbow about his various misadventures with Spitfire and the other Wonderbolts. After the sun had set Rainbow slowly fell asleep next to her new coltfriend. Soarin’ pulled her into a hug and in response she rested her head on his chest and the two ponies fell asleep in each other’s embrace. Spitfire was coming over to Soarin’s house to see how he was holding up. As she arrived she saw him lying on a cloud above his house. Upon reaching the sleeping stallion she saw that he was sleeping with a Rainbow maned mare in his embrace. ‘You did it Soarin’, I am so happy for you. I just hope you don’t make my mistake.’ Spitfire thought thinking back to a certain colt. Unbeknownst to the three pegasi there was a forth pony watching. A thin tan coated colt took a few pictures before speeding back to Ponyville. He had a story to write. Chapter 4Soarin’ was lazily laying on his impromptu cloud-bed with his new marefriend. One might think a cloud would not make an ideal bed because it is made of condensed water. But most pegasi would disagree. ’Cloud-beds are better than any bed a unicorn or earth pony could make.’ Even when the Wonderbolts would be performing in Canterlot or in any other non-cloud city Soarin’ would make his own bed to sleep on. The stallion’s thoughts slowly shifted from the topic of beds made of cloud to the sky blue mare in his embrace. She was curled up on top of him with her head gently resting on his chest, and he could feel the slow rising and falling of her chest as she was in her slumber. ‘She is so beautiful.’ Soarin’ tightened his grip on the mare as he buried his muzzle in her multicolored mane. ‘She is so warm and comfy like a blanket.’ Soarin’s nostrils were assaulted by the slightly spicy scent of Rainbow’s amazing mane. It reminded him of the time where he drank a cup of liquid rainbow. It had to be the worst decision of his life. ‘I can’t believe Spitfire actually likes that stuff.’ As his was thinking about Spitfire’s love of all things spicy, his Rainbow maned friend started to slowly wake. Her eyes slowly opened and meet the gaze of Soarin’s emerald eyes. “Good morning, Dashie.” Soarin’ said. Rainbow blushed at the stallion’s use of Pinkie name for her. “Morning, Soarin’,” Rainbow replied. She looked up at the slowly rising sun. “Ugh… What time is it?” Rainbow asked. “I don’t know… Given the position of the son and…” Soarin’ tried to recall what they taught him in flight school. “I would say around nine o’clock.” He stated rather confidently. The two ponies sat there for a while before Soarin’ spoke up. “Has anypony every told you that you are the most beautiful mare in Equestria.” A furious blush spread across her face that rivaled that of her mane. “To be honest I have never been interested in romance and stallions.” Normally if a stallion had said something like that to her, she would have bucked him halfway to Canterlot. But Soarin’ was different; it felt different when he said it. It didn’t fill her with anger, but she felt a strange warmth grow in her chest. She couldn’t quite explain it, but it felt right. “Soarin’ did mean what you said?” She asked hesitantly. “Of course I do, you are very beaut…” Soarin’ was stopped by a hoof slightly pressed against his lips. “No… I-I mean what you said last night?” She asked as she buried her muzzle in his chest. Rainbow groaned in her head because she was acting more like Fluttershy than herself. Soarin’ cocked his head at the question. Thinking back on the past night he realized what she meant. “I did mean it, Rainbow. I love you. I really do and nothing will change that.” He said as he slowly lifted her head and planted a small kiss on the end of her muzzle. “I think I love you too, Soarin’.” Rainbow said. “Soarin’, what if other ponies find out about us?” “They won’t. I will do everything I can to make this work.” He reassured her. No matter what Soarin’ said Rainbow was nervous. He could lose his spot on the Wonderbolts if others found out about them. She knew if it came out they would have to break up, because she could never ask Soarin’ to give up his dream for her. “So Rainbow, I have to meet our Captain, Spitfire, in Canterlot today. We meet with our coach to plan coming season’s shows. You could come with me and we could get some lunch?” He asked. “I would love to Soarin’, but my friend Pinkie Pie is throwing a party and I promised I her I would be there.” “Hmm… Ok how would you like to go on a picnic tomorrow?” He asked hopefully. “That’s sounds like fun Soarin’.” The two ponies sat up and drew the stallion into a hug. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” “See you then Rainbow.” The two pegasi broke their hug and went their separate ways. Rainbow’s flight to Twilight’s Library was nearing an end as she entered the Ponyville city limits. Pinkie Pie was throwing one of her signature parties, but for what she wasn’t sure. But like usual she just brushes it off as Pinkie being Pinkie. Part of Rainbow wished Soarin’ wasn’t busy today so he could have gone to this party with her. The rest of her mind was glad he was busy, because she knows once her friends found out they would want to hear all the mushy gushy details. Of course Rarity would ask her every 5 seconds to give her a makeover or make her a new dress. Before she knew it Rainbow was at Twilight’s front door. She thought about knocking and just decided to let herself in. As she entered the Library’s main sitting area she could see her five friends gathered around something. ‘Is that a newspaper?’ Rainbow wondered as she tried to make out the papers logo. ‘Wait, is that the Foal Free Press. Why would they be reading the Foal Free Press?’ She wasn’t sure why her friends were so happy and Rarity’s expression reminded her of the time when she swooning over Prince Blueblood. After a few minutes Twilight finally noticed her Rainbow friend standing near the door. “Hi Rainbow, why didn’t you tell us you had a coltfriend?” The lavender mare inquired. “Uhh, Twilight what are you talking about?” Rainbow could feel beads of sweat roll down her forehead as Twilight used her magic to levitate the paper over the Rainbow. She wasn’t sure why Twilight was giving her the local school paper because she hadn’t read it since that whole Gabby Gums incident. Until she saw the headline: Local Weather Captain in relationship with high ranking Wonderbolt. Rainbow thought her jaw was going to hit the floor. “Oh my gosh Dashie! Why didn’t you tell you were dating a Wonderbolt? This is so awesome and I should throw you a party. It is going to be so exciting because I am so excited, aren’t you excited.” The pink party pony rambled on as she bounced along the library. “…” Rainbow had no idea what to say. She knew by now half of Ponyville knows and soon most of Equestria will know. Which means her relationship would be coming to a quick demise. After what seemed like hours of silence the shy Pegasus spoke up. “Um… Rainbow is everything is all right?” “No… Nopony was supposed to know about us.” Rainbow was nervous and even though she hasn’t even been seeing Soarin’ for a day she didn’t want it to end. She hoped to Celestia that this is all a dream and she is going wake up soon. “Darling there is nothing wrong with being with a stallion.” The white unicorn tried to reassure her. “It’s… It’s just that Wonderbolts aren’t allowed to date and now… and now…” If there was anything Rainbow hated the most it had to be crying. But now she couldn’t help herself. She could fell the tears welling in her eyes. ‘I can’t cry, I just can’t cry. Rainbow Dash doesn’t cry.’ Rainbow's shy friend trotted over to her and placed a comforting hoof on her shoulder. “And now you are not going to be able to be with Soarin’.” Rainbow couldn’t hold in her tears any longer and floodgates opened. She collapsed on haunches and began to sob at the loss of Soarin’. Her other friends approached her to try to comfort her. “Rainbow if this Soarin’ loves you then why doesn’t he leave the Wonderbolts?” The bookish mare inquired. “I can’t ask him to leave the Wonderbolts! It would be like somepony asking you to give up magic! I just can’t do it.” Rainbow just wanted this to over. She just wanted Soarin’ to be there with her. Part of her wishes Soarin’ would leave the Wonderbolts for her, but she is not sure if she could live with the fact that she cost Soarin’ his dream. After about an hour of her friends trying to comfort her, she heard a somepony knocking on the door. Soarin’ was seated in a small meeting room in the southern wing of the castle. He was surrounded by various weather documents for upcoming show locations. Given advanced weather training he acted as the team’s Weather Officer. While flipping through various cloud and storm plans for Hoofington he spotted a newspaper. ‘What the heck is this?’ He picked up the paper. ‘The Foal Free Press, it’s today’s edition.’ He recognized the name of the paper, but he quite how he knew it. ‘Wait this is the paper that published story saying I was dating an apple pie.’ He was about to toss the paper when he saw the headline. ‘Local Weather Captain is dating high ranking Wonderbolt. No! No!’ Soarin' was frantic. He wanted this to be fake, but it was real. His thoughts were interrupted by the creek of the door opening. “SOARIN’! DID YOU THINK WHAT I TOLD YOU WAS A JOKE OR ARE YOU JUST THAT STUPID!” Spitfire yelled. Spitfire was fuming and it was not helping Soarin’s anxiety. ‘I just want to crawl up into a hole and die.’ To Soarin’ it felt like his world was collapsing around him. “P-P-Please, Spitfire I-I need help. W-What do I do?” Soarin’ was trying and failing at holding back his tears. Spitfire saw the violently sobbing stallion and the scared look in his eyes. She couldn’t believe what she just said to Soarin’. She just got chewed out by her coach and she took that out on Soarin’. ‘He is my oldest friend and I just treated him like garbage.’ She trotted up to him and wrapped her hooves around him. He returned the embrace and sobbed into her mane. After his crying slowed Spitfire began to speak. “Soarin’, coach wants you to break it off with Rainbow. Then he wants you to make a public statement saying that your relationship with Dash is over.” “So I have break her heart in private, then publically share her heartbreak.” Soarin’ was confused. He wanted didn’t want to lose his spot on the ‘Bolts, but he didn’t want break Dash’s heart. “But that is what Captain Spitfire thinks. Do you want to know your friend thinks?” Soarin’ nodded. “I need to tell you a story.” Spitfire didn’t like talking about this, but her friend needed her help. “Do you remember 2 years a go around the time after the gala I was acting kind of weird?” “Yeah,” he was curious. “Well I was in your current situation.” Spitfire gave a deep breath. “His name was Thunderlane; he went to Flight School with us. We started secretly seeing each other after our Canterlot show, and at the gala we danced together. He told me that he loved me.” Now Spitfire was having trouble holding in her tears. “I really loved him Soarin’. But coach heard my little confession and told me after the gala to break it off. I thought about leaving the ‘Bolts to be with him. But I couldn’t do it. I went to see him that night and told him I couldn’t be with him anymore. I broke his heart Soarin’. I went to go check on him a few months ago. He is engaged to a Pegasus named Blossomforth.” “What are you saying Spit?” He asked. “I had a chance at love and messed it up. I can tell you really love Rainbow. I’m saying that I don’t want you to make my mistake. I know being a Wonderbolt was your lifelong dream, but you need to ask yourself: Is Rainbow Dash worth it? If she is then you know what you need to do.” Soarin’ thought about his friend’s words. ‘Is she worth it? If I choose her I am going to lose a lot.’ He thought back to his night with the Rainbow mare. It was at the moment he knew what he had to do. He looked Spitfire in the eye. “Spitfire I know what I need to do.” “I’ll go tell coach. You need to go be with Rainbow.” Soarin’ began to make his way out of a nearby window. “Soarin’,” he turned to face the mare. “If you and Rainbow ever need anything you can always come to me.” Soarin’ nodded and made his way toward Ponyville. As he reached Ponyville Soarin’ remembered that is not sure where Rainbow is. ‘What she said she was going to be at a party. At a library I think.’ He decided to try there first. He reached his destination and knocked on the door. He could hear hushed speaking and was greeted by a yellow Pegasus. “Hello my name is Soarin’, and I’m looking for, Rainbow Dash.” He said nervously. “Umm why do you need to see her? If you don’t mind me asking.” The timid mare said. “I need to talk to her. It’s important.” He stated. “Ok but there is something you need to know.” He soon noticed the mare was giving him a death stare. “If it is her heart you smash. Canterlot will be where you crash.” Soarin’ gulped. “I understand.” At this the mare led him into see Rainbow. He soon saw the Rainbow maned mare meet his gaze. Her eyes were red and puffy and her checks were heavily tear stained. The sight of the love of his life in this condition made his heart break. “Rainbow, I need to tell you something.” He sat next to the mare. “I know. You can’t see me anymore. I understand.” Rainbow said. “No Rainbow. I left the Wonderbolts to be with you.” He stated. Rainbow was shocked. “W-What, Why?” Rainbow asked. Soarin’ pulled the mare into a hug. “I quit because I love you Dashie. Your Worth it.” EpilogueThe wind was flowing through his mane. Soarin’s eyes were dropping and his brain was begging him to find the nearest cloud and rest, but he had to get home. He could feel the burning sting in his muscles with every flap of his wings. Ever since he left the Wonderbolts and started dating Rainbow Dash, Soarin’ began working on Ponyville’s weather team and was soon promoted to be Ponyville’s Weather Planner. It was his job to plan all weather activity for Ponyville and surrounding areas. Only a few months after he started dating Rainbow, he proposed to her, and now they have been married for about two years. It’s been about ten minutes since he started on his flight home, and now he could see the intricate cloud structure he calls home. ‘I am so glad to be home,’ he thought as he touched down. ‘Rainbow is probably asleep by now.’ After a few seconds of thought he made his way into his home, and before he could think, he found himself being tackled to the ground by an energetic orange filly. “Hey, Scoots,” Soarin’ said as he ran his hoof through her mane. The winter after Soarin’ and Rainbow got married; they found the little filly living in a small wooden clubhouse. It turned that her parents abandoned her, and she has been living on her own since. They decided to take her home with them, and after discussing it they decided to adopt her. He still remembers the first time she called him ‘dad’; it was one of the happiest moments of his life. “I thought you were never going to get home dad.” “I would have been home sooner if the weather team didn’t forget how to setup a simple rain storm,” he explained. “Where is Rainbow?” Soarin’ asked. “Ohh, mom is in her room,” the filly replied. “She said something about feeding Lightning.” Scootaloo said, finally let Soarin’ stand up. “Ok, I am going to check on them.” Lightning Dash was his son. He was born only a few months ago and Rainbow had taken time off from work to take care of him. “Goodnight, dad,” she said hugging Soarin’. “Night, Scoots. Don’t stay up too late,” he said returning the embrace. “Ok, I won’t.” They soon broke the hug and Soarin’ watched the filly speed off towards her room. Then he made his way to him bedroom. On the way he passed a few photos of his family. When he finally reached his destination he found his wife of two years sleeping and wrapped in her hooves, a foal. His son’s coat an azure, blue like his mothers and his mane was a brilliant yellow. He gently slipped into bed behind Rainbow and wrapped his hooved around her. Before Soarin’ left the Wonderbolts, he wondered whether Rainbow was worth giving up his dream and life for. He was so worried that he would lose everything, and for a while it felt like he did. But now lying with his wife and son, he realized he was wrong. ‘I have a beautiful wife, an amazing daughter, and a wonderful son, and I love them all so much.’ He realized that he didn’t lose everything; he gained something. Something more important than his foalhood dreams: A family. He realized that Rainbow was worth it, and has never been happier.
Chapter 1It was a beautiful night in Canterlot and the city was alive celebrating the recent marriage of Princess Cadence and Captain Shining Armor. Soarin’ was sitting on a balcony in the palace thinking about the previous day. ‘I didn’t even want to come this wedding.’ Soarin’ thought. ‘It was going to be like every social event the Wonderbolts are invited to. I would spend all night chatting up a bunch of stuck up ponies that only care that I am Wonderbolt. They don’t want to know Soarin’ the Wonderbolt, but a Wonderbolt who happened to be named Soarin’. He sighed as he stared at the moon climbing into the night sky. But in the end this day turned out alright, if you ignore the whole Changeling invasion of course. His thoughts turned to a certain Rainbow maned mare as a blush spread across his face. ‘I can’t believe she wanted to dance with me. Maybe I should tell her how I feel; she might give me a chance’. As Soarin’ thought a familiar voice broke his concentration. “Hey, Soarin’ what’s up?” Soarin’ turned around and saw Rainbow Dash trotting up to him. “Ohh nothing much, how about you?” He asked as a wave of nervousness rolled over him. “Awesome as always” Rainbow boastfully said as she puffed out her chest. “That umm… was a pretty awesome Sonic Rainboom you did” Soarin’ said. He felt beads of sweat forming on his forehead and his forelegs started to shake slightly. ‘Why do I have to be so nervous; why can’t I be confident like she is.’ "Hay yeah it was!" She exclaimed. “So, what are you doing out here?” Rainbow inquired. “Just thinking I guess” he replied. “What about?” She asked as she sat beside him. “About today, and how much I dislike going to events like these.” “It looked like you were enjoying yourself when I danced with you.” Rainbow said slightly confused. “What didn’t you like about the wedding?” “I did enjoy dancing with you.” He hesitated a bit. “But every time the Wonderbolts are invited to social events I am always surrounded by ponies that only care that I am a Wonderbolt. I just wish somepony cared about whom I am, not what I am.” Rainbow didn’t know what to say. She felt bad because she had been like every other pony. She saw him as a Wonderbolt first and Soarin’ second. She looked down at her hooves and thought for a bit. After a few moments she looked up into Soarin’s emerald eyes and said. “Well I would like to get to know you, Soarin’.” Soarin’ looked at the mare sitting beside him and said, “I would like to get to know you too.” ‘I might get a chance to tell her after all.’ Soarin’ thought starting to cheer up a bit. “Hey Rainbow, can I ask you something.” “Yeah sure” she said. “Would you like to go ou… uhh…. Would you like to hang out sometime? I mean if you are free, it’s cool if you don’t want to.” Soarin’ rambled on. “Really, I would love to hang out with you!” Rainbow said ecstatically. “I don’t have practice for a few days, so how about tomorrow?” he asked. “Sure, I’ll meet you down in Ponyville around noon. I have to clear a few clouds in the morning.” “Cool, but can you just to keep this to yourself” he asked her. “Why?” Rainbow asked. “Well if it gets out that I am going to be in Ponyville I am going to be swamped with ponies wanting autographs. I want to hang out with Rainbow Dash, not Rainbow Dash and half of Equestria.” He explained. “Ok, I’ll see you tomorrow.” Rainbow said before she flew off. Soarin’ was happy. He might not have asked Rainbow on a date, but this was the next best thing. ‘I might get the chance to tell her how I feel.’ But something was nagging at him, but he couldn’t put his hoof on it. ‘Ohh well it’s probably nothing important.’ He began to trot back to the reception when he spotted a ticked off Spitfire standing in the corridor staring at him. “Care to explain what you are doing, Soarin’?” Spitfire asked with a hint of anger in her voice. “W-what are you talking about Spitfire?” Soarin’ asked avoiding Spitfire’s gaze. “You know exactly what I am talking about!” Spitfire nearly yelled. “I saw the way you looked at that mare. What’s her name, Rainbow Dash right?” Soarin’ nodded. “You like her don’t you?” Spitfire asked It finally donned on him, one of the first things he was told when he joined the Wonderbolts. Wonderbolts are not allowed to be romantically involved with anypony. He collapsed on his haunches. ‘I am not dating Rainbow, but I want to. I was going to ask her.’ Soarin’ thought. He looked up at Spitfire. “What do I do Spitfire?” He pleaded. “You break it off as soon as possible” she stated. “Is that coming from Spitfire, Captain of the Wonderbolts; or Spitfire my friend?” “Captain.” She looked at Soarin’; he was shaking like a leaf and looked like he was on the verge of crying. She walked over to him and put a hoof on his shoulder. “Do you want to know what Spitfire the friend thinks?” She asked him. He nodded. “I think you like Rainbow Dash very much; I want you to be happy Soar.” Spitfire said trying to calm him down. “Do you know if she likes you?” She asked. “I don’t know, I was going to ask her tomorrow.” Soarin’ stated. “But it doesn’t matter now, even if she does want to go out with me I am just going to have to break her heart.” “If it works out and if you can keep your relationship secret, I won’t tell anypony.” She said. "What do you mean?" He asked. "I mean if she says yes, I want you to date her." She explained. “Why?” He asked. “Soar, you are my oldest and best friend. I want you to be happy.” She said as she drew him into a hug. All Soarin’ could say is, “Thanks.” After a few moments they broke their hug and Spitfire began to trot off. She turned back to Soarin’, “I guess I will see in a few days a practice. Good luck with Rainbow.” Soarin’ turned back to look off the balcony and thought about the coming day. ‘This might work out after all. I can’t wait for tomorrow.’ He took off towards his home in Cloudsdale; he had a big day a head of him.
Chapter 2Celestia’s glorious sun was rising over the horizon, for it was morning in Cloudsdale. Soarin’ began to stir from his slumber, curled up in his cloud bed. He sat up in his bed and trotted over to the window in bedroom admiring the sun rise. ‘I have always loved the view from my house.’ As a Wonderbolt Soarin’ made a quite a lot of bits, but he never he never really cared about bits. He lived in a fairly small house that resided on the edge of the city. Looking out in the distance he could see the quaint town of Ponyville. ‘It must be nice living in a small town.’ Soarin’ thought. While he loved Cloudsdale, he grew up here, and he loved being a Wonderbolt; he always wanted to live in a town like Ponyville. His mind soon became overrun with images of Rainbow Dash. ‘She is one of the best fliers I have ever met, aside from Spitfire. She is so confident and beautiful; I would do anything to be with her. All I want is to have her wake up at my side, to be able to fly with her, and to enjoy my life with her.' Soarin’ was never really in to romance, most of his life he was focused on his goal of getting in the Wonderbolts. ‘I love being a Wonderbolt; I wouldn’t give it up for anything.’ He thought as he slowly walked out of his bedroom towards his kitchen. Upon arriving he went into the refrigerator and pulled his favorite meal. It was a big slice of apple pie that he brought home from the wedding. He sat down at the kitchen table with his pie and a cup of hot coffee. He finished his breakfast and began to get ready for his day with Rainbow Dash. He trotted into his bathroom and into the small shower. Showers in Cloudsdale were interesting, while most pegasi would buy specifically designed showers. Soarin’ would just use a makeshift raincloud, and his experience working with weather control made this an easy task. As he tried to start his shower, he found out it was out for water. ‘Of all days my raincloud could stop working it has to be today.’ Soarin’ thought as he groaned. ‘I don’t even have time to make a new one, oh well I can just fly through some clouds on my flight to Ponyville. That should good enough.’ He made his way to the front porch of his house and took off towards the small town. Soarin’ loved flying, the wind flowing through his mane it made him feel alive. Down in Ponyville Rainbow Dash was finishing up her weather responsibilities. She only had a few more clouds to clear before she could go meet Soarin’. ‘I am going to be hanging out with a Wonderbolt, and not just any Wonderbolt. I am going to hanging out with Soarin’, my favorite Wonderbolt.’ She always did admire Soarin’. After a few minutes she finished clearing the last cloud. ‘I’m finally done, time to go find Soarin.’ Rainbow began to fly towards her cloud home when she heard a pony caller her. “Hey, Rainbow!” Soarin’ yelled. Rainbow turned around and saw Soarin’ flying towards her. She sped over to greet him. “Hey Soarin’, what’s up?” “I am doing ok.” Soarin’ replied. “I didn’t know you were a weather pony.” He chuckled a bit. “What’s wrong with that?” Rainbow asked with a bit of anger in her voice. “Nothing, nothing at all,” Soarin’ said. “Before I joined the Bolts, I was a weather pony.” “Oh my gosh really!” Rainbow said brim with excitement. “Yeah, it wasn’t the best job, but I loved that it gave me plenty of time to practice my flying.” He stated. “That’s so awesome, so what did you want to do?” “I was thinking a friendly race to see who the better flyer is?” Soarin’ asked. “Ohh you are on.” Soarin’ began to look around for a suitable finish line, and then he spotted a large cloud floating over the Everfree forest. “Ok, first one to that cloud wins.” Soarin’ said pointing to the cloud. “Let’s do this!” Rainbow said getting ready. “On the count of three: 3 2 1 go.” Soarin’ and Rainbow took off towards their destination. They were neck and neck for about half of the race, and then Soarin’ started to pull ahead. “You need to do better than that if you want to win!” Soarin’ yelled back towards Rainbow. Rainbow was determined, she hasn’t lost a race yet and she wasn’t about to start. She started going faster and the sounds barrier started to bend around her until. *Crack* She broke the sound barrier, and pulled off her 4th ever Sonic Rainboom. Soarin’ finally got to the cloud and he stopped dead in his tracks, his mouth agape staring the Rainbow maned mare. Rainbow fell over laughing, “you should see the look on your face.” Soarin’ finally got it together and said. “That awesome, it looks like you won.” “Hay yeah I did, that’s why I am the fastest pegasus in Equestria.” She said proudly. “I guess you are.” Soarin’ said as he sat down next to her on the cloud. “So, are you from Ponyville?” “No, I grew up in Cloudsdale.” She replied. “Really, I love it up in Cloudsdale, but what is it like down in Ponyville?” Soarin’ asked. “It’s ok I guess.” Rainbow stated. “I’ve always wanted to live in a small town like this, how do you like being a weather pony?” Soarin’ asked. “It’s not my dream job, but it gives me time to practice for the Wonderbolts.” Rainbow and Soarin’ spent the next few hours talking with each other about their lives, favorite flying tricks, and just about everything. “I really enjoyed spending time with you Rainbow.” He said with a large grin on his face. “I had fun today, and I would love to hang with you again.” “How about tomorrow?” He asked hopefully. “Sure, I can’t wait.” “Ok, I’ll see you tomorrow Rainbow.” Soarin’ said before he flew off back towards his home in Cloudsdale. Rainbow enjoyed her day with Soarin’, but she felt weird. For some reason she felt empty inside, but she didn’t know why. ‘Why am I feeling like this?’ Rainbow asked herself and groaned. She began to think back to her day with Soarin’. ‘Soarin’ is pretty cool. But also a bit goofy, but he is kind of cute.’ She began to think of him his gorgeous emerald eyes. ‘Wait where did that come from, ugh why can’t I stop thinking about his handsome smile. Could I like Soarin’? Why is this so confusing?’ Rainbow had no idea what to do. ‘I know I’ll go see Fluttershy, she might know what this means.’ With that she sped off towards the yellow Pegasus’s cottage. After a short flight she reached her destination. She trotted up to the door and knocked and she was greeted by the yellow pony. “Oh, hi Rainbow Dash.” She shyly said. “Hi Fluttershy, I need some advice, can I come in?” Rainbow asked. Fluttershy nodded and they walked in and sat down at a small table in the kitchen. “Would like some tea?” The timid pony asked. “No thanks.” “Ok, well what’s wrong?” Fluttershy could see that Rainbow looked kind of nervous. Rainbow knew what she wanted to say, but words were not forming. “I can’t stop thinking about somepony and I don’t know why.” Rainbow explained. “Well I know you have never really been interested in romance, but maybe you like this pony.” Fluttershy offered. “Who is this pony, I mean if you don’t mind me asking.” “Well, you promise not to tell anypony.” “I promise I would never do that to you Rainbow.” Fluttershy assured. “Well, it’s Soarin’.” Rainbow said as she started to slightly blush at the thought of the stallion. “You mean the Wonderbolt?” Fluttershy inquired. “Yeah, I think I have a crush on him.” Rainbow responded. “I can’t stop thinking about him.” “Are you sure it is not just because he is a Wonderbolt?” “I don’t know” Rainbow groaned. “Well what how do you feel when you think about him?” She asked. Rainbow thought for a moment. “Well, I feel happy, like I want him to be with me. I feel empty when he isn’t around.” “Oh wow, that’s amazing Rainbow.” Fluttershy said as a grin spread across her face. “What do you mean!?! I don’t know what it means!” Rainbow was getting frustrated. “Rainbow I think it means you like Soarin’.” She answered. “So what do I do?” Rainbow asked. “Well, maybe you should tell him, if you want to.” “I don’t know, but I need to think about this. Thanks Fluttershy, you are a great friend.” Rainbow said as she got up and headed for the door. “Oh it’s no problem Rainbow Dash, good luck with Soarin’.” Rainbow took off towards home as the sun began to set. Back in Cloudsdale Soarin’ was in his bed thinking about the day he had with Rainbow Dash and he couldn’t wait to see her again.
Chapter 3It was a beautiful morning and Celestia’s glorious sun was slowly rising over the horizon. Soarin’ was gliding down from his home in Cloudsdale to the small town of Ponyville. Flying was Soarin’s passion. He loved the feeling of the wind flowing through his mane. The other thing he loved as much as flying was a fresh baked apple pie. Soarin’ was excited for the coming day because he was going to spending it with the self-proclaimed ‘fastest flyer in Equestria’, Rainbow Dash. ‘Today is the day. I am going to tell Rainbow how I feel about her.’ Soarin’ was nervous about his upcoming confession to the rainbow maned mare. ‘What if she doesn’t want to date me? What if she isn’t into Stallions?’ He worried about being rejected by the mare, but what worried him the most was just the opposite. ‘I am not even supposed to be dating as a Wonderbolt. If she says yes I am going to have to tell her. What if she thinks I am just trying to take advantage of her?’ Soarin’ just hoped if Rainbow said yes, that she would understand that their relationship would have to be secret. That she would still give him a chance. Soarin’ could see Ponyville approaching in the distance and Rainbow Dash’s cloud home on the just outside of the city limits. As he was approaching Dash’s house he could see a dark Pegasus talking to Rainbow Dash on her front porch. His coat was black with a light blue almost silver mane. ‘Who could that be?’ Soarin wondered. ‘What if Rainbow is already interested in a pony. What if this pony is Rainbow’s coltfriend?’ Soarin’ was getting nervous. ‘I’ll just ask her, find out who he is.’ After a few moments he saw the pony fly off and Soarin’ sped off to see Rainbow. “Hey, Dash.” Soarin’ landed right in front of Rainbow. He could see that she looked a little upset. “Oh hey Soarin’.” Rainbow replied with a hint of disappointment in her voice. “I’m sorry but I can’t hang out with you today. Thunderlane’s little brother Rumble is sick and he has to take care of him. So I have to cover his weather shift.” “That’s ok Rainbow I understand.” Soarin’ said. Soarin’ thought for a moment trying to find a way to salvage his plan. “How would you like to have dinner at my place tonight?” He asked with hope in his voice. Rainbow was taken aback by Soarin’s question. ‘Is he asking me on a date?’ She wondered. “Sure Soarin’. That would be awesome.” Rainbow said with a slight blush on her face. “Ok Rainbow, want to meet around 4?” Rainbow nodded. “I’ll see you tonight Rainbow.” Soarin’ flew off back to his home. He had an important dinner tonight. Soarin’ was pacing in his living room. It was almost time for his dinner with Rainbow. Tonight was going to be the night was going to admit his feelings for the mare. ‘I need to stallion up and tell her. I can’t be weak. I need to be brave like her.’ Soarin’ mentally berated himself. He knew even if Rainbow wanted to date him, and even if Rainbow didn’t beat the feathers off him because their relationship would have to be secret. Soarin’ knew that every time they be with each other his career would be at risk. ‘If our relationship were to get out I will be asked if I want to keep my spot of the Wonderbolts or my relationship with Rainbow Dash. To give up my foalhood dream or to figuratively rip out Rainbow’s heart and stomp on it. I hope it doesn’t….’ Soarin’s thoughts interrupted by a knock on his door. “Coming.” Soarin said as he trotted over to the front door. He slowly opened to the door to be greeted by a rainbow maned mare. She had a small smile on her face and mane glowed in the sunlight. ‘She looks so beautiful.’ Soarin’ shock himself out of his daze. “Hey, Rainbow thanks for coming.” “No problem, Soarin’ I would never want to miss an opportunity to have dinner with the 2nd coolest Pegasus to come out of Cloudsdale.” Rainbow stated as she puffed out her chest in pride. Soarin’ cocked his head at Rainbow’s statement. “Second?” He asked with a chuckle. “Yeah, you’re looking at number one right here.” She said proudly. Both of the ponies broke down laughing. After a few moments when they regained their composure Soarin’ said. “I think I can live with that Dash. Why don’t you come in and I can get dinner started.” Soarin’ led Rainbow into his humble abode and the two pegasi made their way into the kitchen. “So what’s on the menu anyway?” Rainbow inquired. “I thought we could bake up some apple pie.” Soarin’ stated as he began to gather the ingredients from the various cabinets. “That sounds cool.” Rainbow trotted over to Soarin’ who was beginning to mix the pie crust. He was slowly mixing the dry and wet ingredients to make the perfect pie crust, while Rainbow was chopping up a bushel of apples. The two ponies finished up their work on the two pies and Soarin’ placed them in the oven. Soarin’ turned around and saw Rainbow sitting there giving him a quizzical look. “What’s with you and pie?” Rainbow inquired. Soarin’s ears drooped at the question. “Ohh… it’s just that… that….” Soarin’ hung his head as he stammered out his response. “It’s nothing something I usually talk about.” “Oh I’m sorry I shouldn’t have brought it up.” Rainbow said remorsefully. “No it’s not your fault. I lost my dad when I was young and my mom a few years ago. She used to always ask me to help her bake an apple pie whenever I would be having a bad day.” Soarin’ began to slightly tear up as he spoke about his mother. “I still miss her and it is just my way of remembering her I guess.” All Rainbow could do is walk over to the slightly shaking stallion and pull him into a hug trying to calm him. ‘I need to tell her.’ Soarin’ thought. “R-r-rainbow can I ask you something?” Soarin’ stuttered. Rainbow nodded. “Are you seeing anypony?” Rainbow pulled away from the hug with the stallion. “No, I have never really thought about romance and stallions. I have been focused on getting into the Wonderbolts” Rainbow thought for a moment. “That is until recently.” Hope filled Soarin’ with Rainbow’s response. “It’s just that…. You have been a good friend and you are one of the few ponies that I now that cares more about me as a pony than the uniform.” Soarin’ said stringing out his confession looking for the right words. ‘Do it!’ “I really like you Rainbow.” Soarin’ blurted out. “What?!? You…. Me… you like me?” “Yeah.” Soarin’ said timidly as he shrunk away from the mare expecting the worst. “I understand if there is somepony else you like. I’m sorry I shouldn’t….” Rainbow silenced him with her hoof. “No it’s not that. It’s just that I think I kind of like you too. But I am not really good with romance and stuff.” Rainbow confessed. Soarin’ was shocked. ‘Rainbow likes me. She really does.’ Soarin’ was happy, he told Rainbow how he felt about her and she likes him. ‘She might actually give me a chance.’ Soarin’s happiness slowly faded as he remembered that he had to tell Rainbow that he isn’t supposed to be dating. ‘I hope she doesn’t hate me.’ “There is something I need to tell you Rainbow.” He said fearfully. “it’s just that Wonderbolts are not supposed to be romantically involved with anypony.” Soarin’ watched as Rainbow smiling face transformed to one of anger and disappointment. “But Spitfire told me that if I am discrete she would help me keep a relationship. Also, my contract is up for renewal next year and I can adjust it so it allows us to be together. But if you never want to see me again or you hate me I understand.” Rainbow didn’t know what to say. Part of her was angry because Soarin’ just told her that he liked her, but wasn’t supposed to be dating her. The other part of her still wanted to be with him and knew he wouldn't try to take advantage of her. “Soarin’ I’m not sure what to say. I still would like to be with you. But I feel guilty if I risk your spot on the Wonderbolts, and that I would have to lie about us.” Rainbow explained. “All I can ask is that you give me a chance.” Soarin’ hoped that she would. As he waited for her response Soarin’ was getting nervous. After a few minutes of waiting Rainbow pulled him into another hug which he happily returned. “So you’re going to give me a shot?” Soarin’ asked hopefully. “What do you think ya big goof.” Rainbow chuckled. “I think… I think…” Soarin’ was saying as he heard the oven timer go off. “I think I need to check our apple pies.” Soarin pulled out of the mare’s embrace as she face-hoofed, and he went to check on the two apple pies. He pulled them out of the oven and sat them down on the nearby table. The two ponies began to dig into their pie. All Soarin’ could think about is his new marefriend. ‘I can’t believe it. Rainbow Dash is my marefriend.’ After they finished eating Soarin’ put the empty pie tins in his sink and they decided to watch the sunset on a cloud sitting above Soarin’s home. The two ponies talked about their upbringings in Cloudsdale and flight school experiences. Rainbow told Soarin’ about her friends and how she helped defeat Nightmare Moon and Discord. Soarin’ told Rainbow about his various misadventures with Spitfire and the other Wonderbolts. After the sun had set Rainbow slowly fell asleep next to her new coltfriend. Soarin’ pulled her into a hug and in response she rested her head on his chest and the two ponies fell asleep in each other’s embrace. Spitfire was coming over to Soarin’s house to see how he was holding up. As she arrived she saw him lying on a cloud above his house. Upon reaching the sleeping stallion she saw that he was sleeping with a Rainbow maned mare in his embrace. ‘You did it Soarin’, I am so happy for you. I just hope you don’t make my mistake.’ Spitfire thought thinking back to a certain colt. Unbeknownst to the three pegasi there was a forth pony watching. A thin tan coated colt took a few pictures before speeding back to Ponyville. He had a story to write.
Chapter 4Soarin’ was lazily laying on his impromptu cloud-bed with his new marefriend. One might think a cloud would not make an ideal bed because it is made of condensed water. But most pegasi would disagree. ’Cloud-beds are better than any bed a unicorn or earth pony could make.’ Even when the Wonderbolts would be performing in Canterlot or in any other non-cloud city Soarin’ would make his own bed to sleep on. The stallion’s thoughts slowly shifted from the topic of beds made of cloud to the sky blue mare in his embrace. She was curled up on top of him with her head gently resting on his chest, and he could feel the slow rising and falling of her chest as she was in her slumber. ‘She is so beautiful.’ Soarin’ tightened his grip on the mare as he buried his muzzle in her multicolored mane. ‘She is so warm and comfy like a blanket.’ Soarin’s nostrils were assaulted by the slightly spicy scent of Rainbow’s amazing mane. It reminded him of the time where he drank a cup of liquid rainbow. It had to be the worst decision of his life. ‘I can’t believe Spitfire actually likes that stuff.’ As his was thinking about Spitfire’s love of all things spicy, his Rainbow maned friend started to slowly wake. Her eyes slowly opened and meet the gaze of Soarin’s emerald eyes. “Good morning, Dashie.” Soarin’ said. Rainbow blushed at the stallion’s use of Pinkie name for her. “Morning, Soarin’,” Rainbow replied. She looked up at the slowly rising sun. “Ugh… What time is it?” Rainbow asked. “I don’t know… Given the position of the son and…” Soarin’ tried to recall what they taught him in flight school. “I would say around nine o’clock.” He stated rather confidently. The two ponies sat there for a while before Soarin’ spoke up. “Has anypony every told you that you are the most beautiful mare in Equestria.” A furious blush spread across her face that rivaled that of her mane. “To be honest I have never been interested in romance and stallions.” Normally if a stallion had said something like that to her, she would have bucked him halfway to Canterlot. But Soarin’ was different; it felt different when he said it. It didn’t fill her with anger, but she felt a strange warmth grow in her chest. She couldn’t quite explain it, but it felt right. “Soarin’ did mean what you said?” She asked hesitantly. “Of course I do, you are very beaut…” Soarin’ was stopped by a hoof slightly pressed against his lips. “No… I-I mean what you said last night?” She asked as she buried her muzzle in his chest. Rainbow groaned in her head because she was acting more like Fluttershy than herself. Soarin’ cocked his head at the question. Thinking back on the past night he realized what she meant. “I did mean it, Rainbow. I love you. I really do and nothing will change that.” He said as he slowly lifted her head and planted a small kiss on the end of her muzzle. “I think I love you too, Soarin’.” Rainbow said. “Soarin’, what if other ponies find out about us?” “They won’t. I will do everything I can to make this work.” He reassured her. No matter what Soarin’ said Rainbow was nervous. He could lose his spot on the Wonderbolts if others found out about them. She knew if it came out they would have to break up, because she could never ask Soarin’ to give up his dream for her. “So Rainbow, I have to meet our Captain, Spitfire, in Canterlot today. We meet with our coach to plan coming season’s shows. You could come with me and we could get some lunch?” He asked. “I would love to Soarin’, but my friend Pinkie Pie is throwing a party and I promised I her I would be there.” “Hmm… Ok how would you like to go on a picnic tomorrow?” He asked hopefully. “That’s sounds like fun Soarin’.” The two ponies sat up and drew the stallion into a hug. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” “See you then Rainbow.” The two pegasi broke their hug and went their separate ways. Rainbow’s flight to Twilight’s Library was nearing an end as she entered the Ponyville city limits. Pinkie Pie was throwing one of her signature parties, but for what she wasn’t sure. But like usual she just brushes it off as Pinkie being Pinkie. Part of Rainbow wished Soarin’ wasn’t busy today so he could have gone to this party with her. The rest of her mind was glad he was busy, because she knows once her friends found out they would want to hear all the mushy gushy details. Of course Rarity would ask her every 5 seconds to give her a makeover or make her a new dress. Before she knew it Rainbow was at Twilight’s front door. She thought about knocking and just decided to let herself in. As she entered the Library’s main sitting area she could see her five friends gathered around something. ‘Is that a newspaper?’ Rainbow wondered as she tried to make out the papers logo. ‘Wait, is that the Foal Free Press. Why would they be reading the Foal Free Press?’ She wasn’t sure why her friends were so happy and Rarity’s expression reminded her of the time when she swooning over Prince Blueblood. After a few minutes Twilight finally noticed her Rainbow friend standing near the door. “Hi Rainbow, why didn’t you tell us you had a coltfriend?” The lavender mare inquired. “Uhh, Twilight what are you talking about?” Rainbow could feel beads of sweat roll down her forehead as Twilight used her magic to levitate the paper over the Rainbow. She wasn’t sure why Twilight was giving her the local school paper because she hadn’t read it since that whole Gabby Gums incident. Until she saw the headline: Local Weather Captain in relationship with high ranking Wonderbolt. Rainbow thought her jaw was going to hit the floor. “Oh my gosh Dashie! Why didn’t you tell you were dating a Wonderbolt? This is so awesome and I should throw you a party. It is going to be so exciting because I am so excited, aren’t you excited.” The pink party pony rambled on as she bounced along the library. “…” Rainbow had no idea what to say. She knew by now half of Ponyville knows and soon most of Equestria will know. Which means her relationship would be coming to a quick demise. After what seemed like hours of silence the shy Pegasus spoke up. “Um… Rainbow is everything is all right?” “No… Nopony was supposed to know about us.” Rainbow was nervous and even though she hasn’t even been seeing Soarin’ for a day she didn’t want it to end. She hoped to Celestia that this is all a dream and she is going wake up soon. “Darling there is nothing wrong with being with a stallion.” The white unicorn tried to reassure her. “It’s… It’s just that Wonderbolts aren’t allowed to date and now… and now…” If there was anything Rainbow hated the most it had to be crying. But now she couldn’t help herself. She could fell the tears welling in her eyes. ‘I can’t cry, I just can’t cry. Rainbow Dash doesn’t cry.’ Rainbow's shy friend trotted over to her and placed a comforting hoof on her shoulder. “And now you are not going to be able to be with Soarin’.” Rainbow couldn’t hold in her tears any longer and floodgates opened. She collapsed on haunches and began to sob at the loss of Soarin’. Her other friends approached her to try to comfort her. “Rainbow if this Soarin’ loves you then why doesn’t he leave the Wonderbolts?” The bookish mare inquired. “I can’t ask him to leave the Wonderbolts! It would be like somepony asking you to give up magic! I just can’t do it.” Rainbow just wanted this to over. She just wanted Soarin’ to be there with her. Part of her wishes Soarin’ would leave the Wonderbolts for her, but she is not sure if she could live with the fact that she cost Soarin’ his dream. After about an hour of her friends trying to comfort her, she heard a somepony knocking on the door. Soarin’ was seated in a small meeting room in the southern wing of the castle. He was surrounded by various weather documents for upcoming show locations. Given advanced weather training he acted as the team’s Weather Officer. While flipping through various cloud and storm plans for Hoofington he spotted a newspaper. ‘What the heck is this?’ He picked up the paper. ‘The Foal Free Press, it’s today’s edition.’ He recognized the name of the paper, but he quite how he knew it. ‘Wait this is the paper that published story saying I was dating an apple pie.’ He was about to toss the paper when he saw the headline. ‘Local Weather Captain is dating high ranking Wonderbolt. No! No!’ Soarin' was frantic. He wanted this to be fake, but it was real. His thoughts were interrupted by the creek of the door opening. “SOARIN’! DID YOU THINK WHAT I TOLD YOU WAS A JOKE OR ARE YOU JUST THAT STUPID!” Spitfire yelled. Spitfire was fuming and it was not helping Soarin’s anxiety. ‘I just want to crawl up into a hole and die.’ To Soarin’ it felt like his world was collapsing around him. “P-P-Please, Spitfire I-I need help. W-What do I do?” Soarin’ was trying and failing at holding back his tears. Spitfire saw the violently sobbing stallion and the scared look in his eyes. She couldn’t believe what she just said to Soarin’. She just got chewed out by her coach and she took that out on Soarin’. ‘He is my oldest friend and I just treated him like garbage.’ She trotted up to him and wrapped her hooves around him. He returned the embrace and sobbed into her mane. After his crying slowed Spitfire began to speak. “Soarin’, coach wants you to break it off with Rainbow. Then he wants you to make a public statement saying that your relationship with Dash is over.” “So I have break her heart in private, then publically share her heartbreak.” Soarin’ was confused. He wanted didn’t want to lose his spot on the ‘Bolts, but he didn’t want break Dash’s heart. “But that is what Captain Spitfire thinks. Do you want to know your friend thinks?” Soarin’ nodded. “I need to tell you a story.” Spitfire didn’t like talking about this, but her friend needed her help. “Do you remember 2 years a go around the time after the gala I was acting kind of weird?” “Yeah,” he was curious. “Well I was in your current situation.” Spitfire gave a deep breath. “His name was Thunderlane; he went to Flight School with us. We started secretly seeing each other after our Canterlot show, and at the gala we danced together. He told me that he loved me.” Now Spitfire was having trouble holding in her tears. “I really loved him Soarin’. But coach heard my little confession and told me after the gala to break it off. I thought about leaving the ‘Bolts to be with him. But I couldn’t do it. I went to see him that night and told him I couldn’t be with him anymore. I broke his heart Soarin’. I went to go check on him a few months ago. He is engaged to a Pegasus named Blossomforth.” “What are you saying Spit?” He asked. “I had a chance at love and messed it up. I can tell you really love Rainbow. I’m saying that I don’t want you to make my mistake. I know being a Wonderbolt was your lifelong dream, but you need to ask yourself: Is Rainbow Dash worth it? If she is then you know what you need to do.” Soarin’ thought about his friend’s words. ‘Is she worth it? If I choose her I am going to lose a lot.’ He thought back to his night with the Rainbow mare. It was at the moment he knew what he had to do. He looked Spitfire in the eye. “Spitfire I know what I need to do.” “I’ll go tell coach. You need to go be with Rainbow.” Soarin’ began to make his way out of a nearby window. “Soarin’,” he turned to face the mare. “If you and Rainbow ever need anything you can always come to me.” Soarin’ nodded and made his way toward Ponyville. As he reached Ponyville Soarin’ remembered that is not sure where Rainbow is. ‘What she said she was going to be at a party. At a library I think.’ He decided to try there first. He reached his destination and knocked on the door. He could hear hushed speaking and was greeted by a yellow Pegasus. “Hello my name is Soarin’, and I’m looking for, Rainbow Dash.” He said nervously. “Umm why do you need to see her? If you don’t mind me asking.” The timid mare said. “I need to talk to her. It’s important.” He stated. “Ok but there is something you need to know.” He soon noticed the mare was giving him a death stare. “If it is her heart you smash. Canterlot will be where you crash.” Soarin’ gulped. “I understand.” At this the mare led him into see Rainbow. He soon saw the Rainbow maned mare meet his gaze. Her eyes were red and puffy and her checks were heavily tear stained. The sight of the love of his life in this condition made his heart break. “Rainbow, I need to tell you something.” He sat next to the mare. “I know. You can’t see me anymore. I understand.” Rainbow said. “No Rainbow. I left the Wonderbolts to be with you.” He stated. Rainbow was shocked. “W-What, Why?” Rainbow asked. Soarin’ pulled the mare into a hug. “I quit because I love you Dashie. Your Worth it.”
EpilogueThe wind was flowing through his mane. Soarin’s eyes were dropping and his brain was begging him to find the nearest cloud and rest, but he had to get home. He could feel the burning sting in his muscles with every flap of his wings. Ever since he left the Wonderbolts and started dating Rainbow Dash, Soarin’ began working on Ponyville’s weather team and was soon promoted to be Ponyville’s Weather Planner. It was his job to plan all weather activity for Ponyville and surrounding areas. Only a few months after he started dating Rainbow, he proposed to her, and now they have been married for about two years. It’s been about ten minutes since he started on his flight home, and now he could see the intricate cloud structure he calls home. ‘I am so glad to be home,’ he thought as he touched down. ‘Rainbow is probably asleep by now.’ After a few seconds of thought he made his way into his home, and before he could think, he found himself being tackled to the ground by an energetic orange filly. “Hey, Scoots,” Soarin’ said as he ran his hoof through her mane. The winter after Soarin’ and Rainbow got married; they found the little filly living in a small wooden clubhouse. It turned that her parents abandoned her, and she has been living on her own since. They decided to take her home with them, and after discussing it they decided to adopt her. He still remembers the first time she called him ‘dad’; it was one of the happiest moments of his life. “I thought you were never going to get home dad.” “I would have been home sooner if the weather team didn’t forget how to setup a simple rain storm,” he explained. “Where is Rainbow?” Soarin’ asked. “Ohh, mom is in her room,” the filly replied. “She said something about feeding Lightning.” Scootaloo said, finally let Soarin’ stand up. “Ok, I am going to check on them.” Lightning Dash was his son. He was born only a few months ago and Rainbow had taken time off from work to take care of him. “Goodnight, dad,” she said hugging Soarin’. “Night, Scoots. Don’t stay up too late,” he said returning the embrace. “Ok, I won’t.” They soon broke the hug and Soarin’ watched the filly speed off towards her room. Then he made his way to him bedroom. On the way he passed a few photos of his family. When he finally reached his destination he found his wife of two years sleeping and wrapped in her hooves, a foal. His son’s coat an azure, blue like his mothers and his mane was a brilliant yellow. He gently slipped into bed behind Rainbow and wrapped his hooved around her. Before Soarin’ left the Wonderbolts, he wondered whether Rainbow was worth giving up his dream and life for. He was so worried that he would lose everything, and for a while it felt like he did. But now lying with his wife and son, he realized he was wrong. ‘I have a beautiful wife, an amazing daughter, and a wonderful son, and I love them all so much.’ He realized that he didn’t lose everything; he gained something. Something more important than his foalhood dreams: A family. He realized that Rainbow was worth it, and has never been happier.
