Catching Starlight

by Midnight Song18

Rating: everyone
Tags: Alternate Universe, Romance, Drama, Soarin, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Rumble, Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Length: 11559

Scootaloo's parents were told at birth that she would never fly because she has the wrong type of bones. A chance meeting changes everything. When Scootaloo meets Rumble, he may just be able to show her the key to flight is believing in yourself.

Scootaloo's parents, Soarin and Rainbow Dash, were told their little foal, Scootaloo, would never fly. She was born with the bones suitable to that of an earth pony and it weighs her down.

Scootaloo grows up being relentlessly teased and bullied by other ponies. She only feels comfortable around her parents and her best friends, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle. But once Scootaloo meets a stallion named Rumble, everything changes. Maybe Scootaloo will fly after all.

Published 2018-02-05 06:40:07 UTC
Last updated 2019-05-08 23:15:12 UTC

Prologue: The Flightless Foal

A young foal opened her eyes, looking up to see who was holding her in their arms. She saw a mare with magenta eyes, a light blue coat, and a rainbow mane with an exhausted smile on her face. Beside her was a lighter blue stallion with a dark blue mane and with eyes as green as an emerald.

“Hello,” said the stallion, tears of joy welling up in his eyes. “She’s perfect.”

The mare chuckled softly as she struggled to keep her eyes open. An overwhelming fatigue was taking over and she couldn't wait to go to bed, but a joy remained present as she looked at the foal in her arms. “Of course she is. Any kid of ours has to be totally awesome.”

Nurse Redheart entered the room to check up on the couple who had just had their first foal. She was an orange pegasus filly with a purple mane. Her eyes were a different shade of purple making it match beautifully.

“Miss Rainbow Dash?” Nurse Redheart asked. “Soarin? How are you two doing?”

“They did wonderful, nurse,” Doctor Stables replied. “Their little filly was just born.”

“Thanks for everything, Doc,” Soarin said.

“Have you decided on a name for the young foal?” Doctor Stables questioned. “We’ll need a name tag for her when we put her in the nursery.”

Soarin paused and thought for a moment before exchanging a glance with Rainbow Dash. “We haven't really thought about names yet.”

“Well, there was this name I always liked as a filly,” Rainbow Dash claimed. “What about Fire Flight?”

“I'm not sure if that name really suits her,” Soarin replied. “She doesn't look like a Fire Flight.”

Rainbow Dash chuckled. “You're right. Hmm… what other cool names are there?”

“Cloudy Haze?” Soarin suggested.

Rainbow Dash put an end to the idea by shaking her head and scrunching up her face slightly.

“I named my first foal Tigerlily,” Nurse Redheart said. “It looks like it’d be a great name for her.”

“I don't want to name my foal after a flower,” Rainbow Dash said. “I want to name her something… cool.”

“I do too, but what name should we give her?” Soarin inquired.

Everyone in the room began to think of names for the little foal. As they did, the little foal began to scoot over to reach out to her Dad. She had gotten to know her mother. Now, she wanted to be held by her father.

“Wow, she just scooted along, didn't she?” Doctor Stables said with a playful chuckle.

The doctor's statement gave Rainbow Dash an idea. “I know!”

“What is it?” Soarin wondered with anticipation as he picked up the little foal in his arms.

“What about Scootaloo?” Rainbow Dash suggested. “It sounds cool, but it's also a memory to this day.”

“I like it!” Soarin exclaimed. “Scootaloo.”

Soarin grinned at the foal who seemed to laugh in agreement at her name.

“Scootaloo,” Doctor Stables repeated. “Great pick! We’ve never heard of a unique name like Scootaloo before.”

Nurse Redheart picked Scootaloo up in her arms to take her to the nursery.

“We’ll be right back for you, Miss Dash,” Doctor Stables declared. “Congratulations.”

Nurse Redheart and Doctor Stables left the room. Rainbow Dash lied back in the hospital bed and felt her eyes begin to grow heavy. Giving birth had taken everything out of her. All she wanted to do now was sleep.

“Tired, huh?” Soarin teased her.

Rainbow Dash yawned and nodded. “Sure am.”

“Well, I’ll let you sleep then,” Soarin told her. “I’ll take care of everything.”

Rainbow Dash exhaled in relief. “Thanks, Soarin.”

Soarin lightly kissed her forehead before walking over to sit in a nearby chair. Something about Soarin's kisses always made Rainbow Dash feel on top of the world. Rainbow Dash smiled as she dozed off to sleep.

Only minutes later, frantic hoofsteps were heard in the hallway. Soarin’s heart began to race and he silently pleaded that the bad news the doctor was about to deliver wasn't addressed to them. Unfortunately, it was. The door opened and a frazzled, confused Doctor Stables entered the room. “Soarin!”

“Is something wrong, Doc?” Soarin worried.

Doctor Stables sighed and rubbed his forehead. “Soarin… there's something wrong with your baby.”

Soarin was galloping down the hallway as fast as his hooves would carry him. He needed to make sure that his newborn daughter was okay.

When he entered the room the doctor led him to, Soarin looked around for Scootaloo. Scootaloo was lying in a crib, safely tucked in the covers. Her breaths were steady and healthy and a small smile sat upon her lips. Nothing seemed to be wrong with her.

“Doc… I don't see the problem,” Soarin admitted.

“We have some x-rays we need to show you,” Nurse Redheart replied.

As Soarin sat at the desk across from Doctor Stables, Doctor Stables reached for two x-rays. They were both x-rays of a pegasus foal. However, something seemed off. The first x-ray had light, airy bones showing as a pegasus should have to easily take flight. The second x-ray had thick, stronger bones that would weigh a pegasus pony down.

“What's going on?” Soarin asked.

“The first x-ray is of a normal pegasus pony with lighter bones to carry them off the ground,” Doctor Stables explained. “The second x-ray is of your daughter. You see, she was born with the bones suitable to that of an earth pony. Earth ponies need stronger bones to be able to lift heavy things and pull a lot of weight, but pegasi can't have earth pony bones. It disrupts their flight. Soarin… your daughter may never fly.”

There was a stunned silence.

Soarin would never admit it, but he felt his heart ripping into pieces. His daughter would never experience the joy of flight that he and his wife felt. “B-but---”

“I wish there was something we could do, but it's not possible to switch bone type,” Doctor Stables said, sadly. “I’m sure there are other things your little filly will be great at.”

Soarin only nodded. He would need to tell Rainbow Dash the horrible news and he knew Rainbow Dash wouldn't take it lightly. Rainbow Dash had been looking forward to teaching her daughter how to fly.

Nurse Redheart picked Scootaloo up and made her way over to the nursery.

“We are so terribly sorry,” Doctor Stables told him.

“It's not your fault,” Soarin assured.

Soarin and Rainbow Dash didn't know what was in store with a filly that they were told would never fly, but a lot could happen in the years to come.

Author's Note

Hey, everyone! It's Midnight Song VA here with a brand new AU story!

I wanted to call it the "Scootaverse", but I bet ya that's been taken already because of the abundant amounts of fanfiction of MLP. Maybe all of you creative geniuses can come up with a name for it. :raritywink:

I hope you enjoy what this story has to offer! I had a lot of fun with it! :twilightsmile:

Chapter 1: The Birthday Bash

Scootaloo grew up to be rambunctious and eager. Sometimes, her parents would have a hard time getting the little filly under control.

Today was Scootaloo's fifth birthday and the little filly was more energetic than usual.

Rainbow Dash and Soarin had invited their friends and their daughters and sons as well. It was a big event according to Rainbow Dash. Everyone had brought Scootaloo gifts.

“Happy birthday, Scootaloo!” a pink mare with an outrageously curly hot pink mane squealed, placing a gift on the counter.

Rainbow Dash's friend, Pinkie Pie, had come with a pretty big gift, wrapped neatly in red-wrapping paper and a white bow.

“And may you have many more to come,” Pinkie Pie's husband, Cheese Sandwich, added.

“Thank you,” Scootaloo said.

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle arrived in the doorway. Scootaloo rushed over to give the two fillies a hug. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were Scootaloo's lifelong best friends. They had met when Rainbow Dash had taken Scootaloo over to Applejack’s and Rarity's houses. They had hit it off well as foals and they’ve been the best of friends ever since.

“Happy birthday, Scootaloo!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed, handing her friend a gift.

Scootaloo gasped in delight, wondering what it could be. She shook the box next to her ear.

“Careful!” Sweetie Belle cried. “It's fragile.”

“What does that mean?” Scootaloo asked.

“I don't know,” Sweetie Belle admitted. “I just hear my Mom say it when she asks me to carry packages up to her bedroom.”

Apple Bloom furrowed her brow. “I thought fragile was what you got when you rubbed two things together.”

As the three fillies continued to chat and laugh together, Rainbow Dash and Soarin were doing the same with their friends and their husbands.

“So, Rarity, Fancy Pants,” Rainbow Dash said. “How's the boutique?”

“Spectacular!” Rarity exclaimed. “However, business has been slow lately. Luckily, our daughter, Sweetie Belle, is around to help out a bit.”

“She can be exceedingly helpful at times,” Fancy Pants added. “But sometimes…”

“She drops a box of gemstones down the stairs,” Rarity finished, recalling last week when that actually happened.

She remembered telling Sweetie Belle that the gemstones were fragile, but Sweetie Belle didn't seem to understand yet.

“So, what's the gift that you bought?” Soarin wondered. “That's some fancy wrapping paper you have on it.”

“Oh, it's just a stuffed animal,” Rarity said. “Sweetie Belle had this one since she was a foal. For some reason, she told me she wanted to give it to Scootaloo.”

“Well, that was nice of her,” Rainbow Dash told them. “I hope Scootaloo likes it.”

“Me too, darling,” Rarity admitted. “Sweetie Belle spent quite a bit of time on a card as well.”

Soarin smiled and clapped his forehooves together to quiet the guests. Gradually, everypony who had come to Scootaloo's party came to a hush. All five of Rainbow Dash's friends were able to make it as well as their husbands and children.

Applejack and her husband, Apple Buck, were the most dependable of the group. Rainbow Dash and Soarin could always count on them to give them an honest opinion. Their daughter, Apple Bloom, was learning to be honest and tell the truth as well.

Fluttershy and Discord were definitely the most bizarre couple in Equestria. Discord was a draconequus, a creature that is a mix of many other creatures. He was not at all what you’d call handsome. Fluttershy seemed to be the exact opposite. She was exceedingly alluring and her voice was enchanting, especially when she lifted it in song. Despite this, Fluttershy and Discord were able to fall deeply in love. They weren't ready for the pressure of a foal yet. For the moment, they just enjoyed being in each other's company.

Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich were an odd couple as well, but Rarity swore it was a match made in heaven. They both loved to plan parties and they became a party planning duo, causing them to fall in love. When they found the time to settle down, they got married and decided to start a family of their own. Their attempts to get Pinkie Pie pregnant were unsuccessful so far, but they weren't about to give up anytime soon.

Rarity and Fancy Pants were definitely the most sophisticated couple of the group. They always knew what to do in a social gathering and had a certain savoir faire in public activities. Their daughter, Sweetie Belle, wasn't prim and proper like her parents, but they supported her nevertheless.

What caught Rainbow Dash's attention most was her best friend, Twilight Sparkle, who came to parties, but always hid in the corner. She was the Princess of Friendship. It was ironic that she tended to isolate herself. She’d either be reading a book, working on brand new spells, or writing in a journal. Twilight loved her friends from the bottom of her heart, but she seemed very introverted when it came to parties or events. She preferred to spend time with her friends in a quieter setting like in the throne room of her Friendship Castle. Twilight had never married, due to not communicating with stallions outside of her family or her best friends husbands.

“It's time to open gifts!” Soarin announced.

Everyone began to cheer, except for Twilight who didn't even look up from her book. She could get very immersed in a great story.

“Um, Twilight?!” Pinkie Pie called.

As if being awoken from a trance, Twilight's head jerked up from her book. “Huh? Sorry, I was in the middle of a really exciting part! I just love this book. Far-off adventures, a normal peasant trying to prove himself to the king…”

“It's okay! That sounds fun!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed.

“Would you like to join us for gifts?” Cheese Sandwich asked.

Twilight smiled warmly. “Well… I want to see Scootaloo open the gift I bought her.”

Twilight placed the book on the table beside her and made her way over to the group.

Soarin picked up the gift that Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich had left on the table earlier.

“Ooh, that's ours!” Pinkie Pie squealed with excitement.

Soarin and Rainbow Dash chuckled softly at Pinkie's eagerness. Scootaloo began to tear open the package.

When the wrapping paper was removed, Soarin joked, “It's a box!”

There was a brown box taped shut with duct tape.

Pinkie Pie giggled. “There's something inside of it, silly!”

With a smile, Rainbow Dash went over to help her daughter open the box. Scootaloo gasped in awe when she saw what was inside. It was a poster of the Wonderbolts that Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich had carefully drawn themselves.

“We wanted to get you a real one, but we couldn't find one in stores,” Cheese Sandwich explained. “So, we made an effort to make one ourselves. Now, I know it's not as great as the real poster, but---”

“I love it!” Scootaloo exclaimed. “It looks just like the real one, but with colored pencils!”

Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich smiled at her, relieved that she loved the gift, despite not being able to find an authentic one.

“Thank you, Pinkie Pie and Cheese,” Soarin told them.

“Aww, you're welcome!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. “Turn it over, Scootaloo.”

Scootaloo turned the poster over and saw a note: Never give up. Love, Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich.

“Wow,” Scootaloo breathed. She was almost rendered speechless.

“Thanks, Pinkie,” Rainbow Dash said, winking at Pinkie Pie.

“No problem,” Pinkie Pie replied with a grin.

Soarin picked another present from the table, the present with the expensive wrapping paper.

“Scootaloo, that's my gift!” Sweetie Belle told her.

Scootaloo grinned in excitement as she tore open the polished wrapping paper. Sweetie Belle always got her something meaningful. It had always meant something to Sweetie Belle first and that's why her gifts always meant something to Scootaloo.

When Rainbow Dash opened another box sealed shut with tape for Scootaloo, Scootaloo saw a stuffed rabbit. It was the same one Scootaloo saw at Sweetie Belle's multiple times. The same pure white fur and the same blue ribbon tied by its neck. Sweetie Belle had even named her rabbit.

“Y-you’re giving me Bouncy?” Scootaloo stammered.

Sweetie Belle blushed with embarrassment. “Feel free to rename him.”

Scootaloo shook her head. “No, we always called him Bouncy. That will always be his name.”

Hugging Bouncy close, Scootaloo smiled. “Thank you.”

“You're welcome,” Sweetie Belle said. “There's a card too.”

Scootaloo looked into the box to find a red envelope sealed shut with a pink heart sticker. On the envelope, Sweetie Belle had wrote:

To: My Bestest Friend, Scootaloo

From: Sweetie Belle

“Mom helped me with spelling,” Sweetie Belle admitted. “I didn't know how to spell friend or dear.”

Scootaloo stifled her laughter and tore open the envelope. In Sweetie Belle's developing horn-writing, she wrote Scootaloo a letter:

Dear Scootaloo,

You are my best friend. I love how you never stop trying. I want you to keep Bouncy for me. When times get hard, Bouncy will never leave you.

Your friend,

Sweetie Belle

Scootaloo felt herself beaming from Sweetie Belle's kind words. She looked at Bouncy with a new admiration. “Thanks for Bouncy, Sweetie Belle.” She hugged the plush rabbit tighter.

“That was very sweet of you, dear,” Rarity told Sweetie Belle.

“Indeed,” Fancy Pants agreed. “We are very proud of you.”

Sweetie Belle giggled from all of the praise she was receiving. She pretended to hide, but she truly beamed from the compliments.

Throughout the day, Scootaloo opened many thoughtful gifts. She got a half-baked pie from Apple Bloom. Apple Bloom was proud that she made it all by herself. Scootaloo had to admit that Apple Bloom was an amazing baker for her age. Fluttershy had made her a hoof-stitched sweater with a bunny on it. Fluttershy’s sewing ability was truly surprising. They weren't sure where she learned to do it. Scootaloo got a replica of a Wonderbolts badge from her parents. She immediately pleaded for her mother to pin it to her.

After opening up all of those amazing birthday gifts, only one remained. It was wrapped in shimmering, royal purple wrapping paper and book-shaped. They already knew exactly who it was from.

“A book?” Scootaloo asked Twilight.

Twilight nodded. “Open it.”

Scootaloo tore open Twilight's gift to witness a carefully crafted, home-made book. Scootaloo gasped and opened the book. Each page was completely blank.

When Scootaloo still looked puzzled, Twilight spoke, “It's a journal. I made it for you myself. I thought you could use it to write your own story.”

Scootaloo hesitated.

“Look on the back,” Twilight told her.

Scootaloo turned the journal over and saw that Twilight had written as well. It read:

Dear Scootaloo,

You are one of the most amazing ponies that I know. I wanted to give you something, so you could document your experiences. When your friends get busier as you grow up, this journal will always be here for you.

Sincerely,

Twilight

Scootaloo looked up at Twilight. “Uh… thanks?”

Rainbow Dash looked a little surprised. “Scootaloo, I know you can be nicer to Twilight than that.”

Scootaloo looked at the ground. “Thank you, Twilight.”

“Sorry, Twilight,” Rainbow Dash whispered.

Twilight smiled. “It's fine. She's still young. One day, she’ll come to appreciate it.”

Rainbow Dash nodded as she turned to the rest of the guests. “Okay, it's time for cake!”

Scootaloo's eyes lit up. “Hooray!”

Soarin and Rainbow Dash made their way over to the cake they bought from Sugarcube Corner and began to cut it into slices.

Once again, Twilight made her way over to the corner she isolated herself in. She opened a spiral notebook and used the magic from her horn to carefully tear out a page. Using a quill she never left home without, she smiled affectionately and began to write:

Dear Spike…

Author's Note

Hey! Constructive criticism on the story is welcome! Thoughts? Comments? Please do give me your honest feedback! I'd love to improve my writing! Thank you so much! :pinkiesmile:

Chapter 2: The Rumble Ruckus

Years began to pass by. The Cutie Mark Crusaders finally discovered that their destiny was to help guide other ponies to their own destinies. However, there was still one thing that bothered Scootaloo.

Scootaloo desperately tried to take flight, pushing against her bones that were dragging her body towards the ground. “I can do this!”

Apple Bloom yawned. “Yeah, but can you try again tomorrow? I'm getting tired and Mama always makes warm apple cider. Besides, Uncle Big Mac and Aunt Sugar Belle are coming over tomorrow morning.”

Scootaloo's eyes began to water. “But I have to fly! At this rate, I’ll… I’ll never fly.”

“Aw, sure you will, Scootaloo,” Sweetie Belle encouraged. “Let's try again tomorrow.”

“But I don't understand!” Scootaloo cried. “Why can't I fly?”

“I don't know, Scoots,” Apple Bloom replied. “But we’ll try again with you tomorrow, we promise. Goodnight!”

“Goodnight,” Scootaloo returned, miserably.

After Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle left, Scootaloo rode her scooter home. Soarin had given it to her for her ninth birthday. Scootaloo had proven to be a natural and even did tricks on the scooter. Despite not being able to fly, she could still use her wings to propel herself. Scootaloo took a deep breath of fresh air as she felt the wind whip her mane back.

Scootaloo used the ramp Rainbow Dash and Soarin had put up, so she could reach the house. Her parents always said that she'd fly someday, then chuckle nervously as they looked away. She always knew they were lying. Tonight, she wanted the truth.

Scootaloo parked her scooter outside, hung her helmet on the handles, and opened the door. “Mom, Dad, I’m home!”

Rainbow Dash was setting the table for dinner. “Hey, Scoots! Almost time for dinner.”

Scootaloo chuckled. She knew her parents learned and attempted to cook, but their strong spot was flying. Being Wonderbolts, they didn't have a lot of time to practice other hobbies. However, Scootaloo still claimed her parents cooking wasn't bad at all.

Scootaloo joined her parents at the dinner table and began to serve herself some dinner. From the looks of it, Soarin had cooked tonight. He was just slightly more experienced than Rainbow Dash. Soarin had made potato casserole. It wasn't exactly the family favorite, but it was the easiest recipe for Soarin.

After eating most of her dinner, Scootaloo took a deep breath and looked up at her parents. It was time to ask them for the truth. “Mom, Dad, I want the truth this time. Why can't I fly?”

Soarin and Rainbow Dash exchanged a solemn glance. Rainbow Dash sighed and nodded to Soarin.

“Scootaloo… you can't fly,” Soarin admitted.

Scootaloo's heart sank into her stomach. “Wh-what?”

Scootaloo had always dreamed of flying just like her parents. If the daughter of two famous Wonderbolts couldn't even get off the ground, she’d become a laughing stock.

“You were born with the bones of an earth pony,” Rainbow Dash continued. “It weighs you down and that's why it seems so heavy for you to fly.”

“N-no,” Scootaloo stuttered. Her eyes began to fill with tears. It felt like all of her hopes were shattered before her eyes.

“Scootaloo…” Soarin trailed off.

Soarin and Rainbow Dash arose from their seats and went over to give Scootaloo a hug. The family sat in silence in that way for awhile. Scootaloo wiped her tears away. She knew she’d never be able to fly, but she had wonderful friends and family by her side. Maybe that was all that she needed.

As the years continued to fly by, the Cutie Mark Crusaders grew fast. They had graduated filly school and were moving onto college. The three best friends were chatting about their future plans in Scootaloo's bedroom.

“I was accepted into Appleloosa University,” Apple Bloom declared.

“Nice,” Scootaloo said. “What will you be getting your bachelor's degree in?”

“Agriculture,” Apple Bloom answered. “I love it down on Sweet Apple Acres and it will always be home, but it would also do some good if I could do chores for other apple orchards, so I could earn a living. I love to work on the fields. It sounds like a dream come true.”

“That's amazing, Apple Bloom!” Sweetie Belle chimed in.

“Aww, thanks, Sweetie Belle,” Apple Bloom said with a chuckle. “What about you? What college are you going to?”

“Oh, I’m not going to college,” Sweetie Belle answered.

Apple Bloom and Scootaloo were stumped. “Y-you’re not?” a confused Scootaloo asked.

“Mom and Dad told me I should at least get my associate’s degree, but there was nothing I was truly passionate about,” Sweetie Belle explained. “So, I decided that I'm not going to any colleges and Mom and Dad told me that was okay. I'm going to pursue a singing career. I already have a lot of original songs. Dad actually scheduled a time for me to record my first album!”

“Wow!” Scootaloo exclaimed. “Our best friend is going to be famous!”

The three friends guffawed in excitement as they moved into a group hug.

“What about you, Scootaloo?” Sweetie Belle wondered. “What are you going to be studying? Are you going to be going to college at all or will you be staying home?”

“I-I don't know,” Scootaloo admitted. “There's not a lot of things that I’m interested in studying.”

“There's a flying course in Vanhoover,” Apple Bloom suggested, remembering the options for college when she looked through the catalogue. “Maybe you can take that.”

Scootaloo looked at Apple Bloom in disbelief. “Really, Apple Bloom? You know that I can't fly!”

“So, some doctors told you that you’d never fly,” Sweetie Belle said. “The doctors told my parents that I’d never be able to use my magic because the part of my brain that controls magic was too small.”

“Really?” Scootaloo was surprised.

Sweetie Belle nodded. “But I never gave up and now I can use my magic just fine.” She levitated some paper and colored pencils over and began to draw with the magic from her horn.

Scootaloo nodded. “I’ll think about it,” she said with a smile.

Sweetie Belle smiled and used her magic to playfully toss one of the stuffed animals on her bed towards Scootaloo. Scootaloo chuckled and threw it back.

Scootaloo sighed happily. She could always count on her best friends.

Scootaloo rode her scooter through the town, a look of determination on her face. She got her scooter up into the air and leaped, feeling the gentle breeze in her face. She cherished that glimpse of flight she got as she hovered there for merely a few seconds before she landed the scooter with a triumphant grin.

Suddenly, a filly trying to get her ball ran past Scootaloo. Scootaloo gasped and avoided the filly just in time, swerving her scooter. Scootaloo lost control of her scooter and accidentally crashed into a cherry stand. A few cherries splattered onto her head. She groaned as she blinked, the scene in front of her being blurred and obscured.

“Hey, are you okay?” the voice of a stallion asked.

Scootaloo looked up, still trying to see through her blurry vision. “Wh-who are you?”

When Scootaloo's vision was restored, she could see a gray-coated pegasus with jet black hair and purple eyes. His cutie mark was a small, gray cloud with streaks coming from behind it. He had a smug smile on his face. “Careful. I wouldn't want to see you tumble through the streets of Ponyville. As amusing as it would be to see a pony just rolling through town, I’m better than that.”

“Thanks for your concern,” Scootaloo muttered, sarcastically.

“You're welcome,” the stallion replied. “What's your name?”

“You told me it would be fun to see me roll down the streets and now you want my name?” Scootaloo asked in disbelief.

The stallion shrugged. “Yeah.”

Scootaloo sighed. “It's Scootaloo. What's yours?”

“Wait, you're Scootaloo?” the stallion asked. “As in Soarin and Rainbow Dash's daughter?”

“Yes,” Scootaloo replied.

This wasn't unusual for her. Being the daughter of two famous Wonderbolts, many ponies recognized her all around Equestria.

“My Dad just became a full-fledged Wonderbolt,” the stallion gloated. “I’m Rumble. I'm Thunderlane and Roseluck's son.”

“Thunderlane? The new Wonderbolts recruit?” Scootaloo remembered.

“That's him,” Rumble said proudly.

“And I recognize the name Roseluck too,” Scootaloo added. “Isn't she that jumpy flower salespony?”

Rumble blushed. “Uh… maybe.”

Scootaloo smirked. “Huh. Guess you have a soft side too.”

“Me?” Rumble said. “Maybe you should check who you're talking to.”

“Believe me, I know who I’m talking to,” Scootaloo quipped. “I guess I’ll be seeing you around, Rumble.”

Rumble nodded. “See ya, Scootaloo!”

Scootaloo hopped onto her scooter and sped away. As she rode, she turned to look back at Rumble. Rumble smiled genuinely at her. Scootaloo quickly turned away to hide a blush and a smile.

Author's Note

And now Rumble has been introduced! Let's see where this goes, shall we? :raritywink:

Chapter 3: The Dragon Dilemma

Twilight blinked away the ash, slightly spewing from the volcano. It was exceedingly sweltering from inside. Sweat immediately started trickling down Twilight's face.

“Ember?” Twilight called out.

Dragon Lord Ember was the leader of all dragons. Twilight often met the dragons for royal negotiations.

However, it wasn't Ember who discussed negotiations with Twilight. Ember sent her son, Prince Spike of the Dragons, to handle it instead.

Twilight and Spike’s relationship had been very professional at first, but it had gradually become more friendly. Soon, the pony and the dragon looked forward to the visits. They began to exchange letters back and forth. Twilight used the magic from her horn to send the letters and Spike used his special ability to message through his fire breath.

Spike was the only dragon who believed that ponies and dragons could be friends. Even Ember was skeptical of Twilight when she came to visit.

“Ember!” Twilight repeated. “Are you here?”

“Yes, Princess Twilight,” Ember called back. “Give me a moment.”

Ember flew out using her small, but graceful wings and landed in front of Twilight to greet her. “Good to see you back around our parts. My son is waiting for you in the back of the volcano.”

“Great!” Twilight exclaimed. “Thank you for letting me visit. It's an honor.”

Twilight bowed respectfully to Ember which Ember returned. Then, Twilight made her way to the back of the volcano, eagerly.

“Spike!” Twilight repeatedly called his name until his voice was heard.

“Twilight!” Spike called back.

The two close friends ran over to each other and embraced. Twilight let herself melt into the embrace. She didn't get to see Spike very often, so she cherished every moment she got to spend with the young prince.

“So, did you bring the treaty?” Spike asked, playfully winking at Twilight.

Twilight giggled and nodded, levitating the treaty over to him. Spike used the quill Twilight had brought to sign his name before passing back it to her. After getting the treaty back, Twilight signed her name. When their relationship was still on a professional basis, they’d actually discuss, but when it turned into friendship, they just pretended to. They’d use the extra time to play or read.

“So, we still have three hours,” Spike declared. “What do you want to do this time? We can go gem hunting again like we did last time or I can show you the Gauntlet of Fire!”

“Actually, I brought a book,” Twilight said.

Spike’s spirits lifted up. He loved to read with Twilight. “I hope it's one that you wrote!” He loved to read other books with Twilight, but he loved the original stories that Twilight wrote even more. They were always so enchanting and full of imagination. They took Spike on adventures he never got to go on.

“Not this time,” Twilight said with a giggle. “But this book was very special to me when I was a young filly. 'Magic and Mystery’. It's Star Swirl the Bearded’s biography in the form of an adventure story.”

Spike’s interests were captured. Twilight would ramble about Star Swirl’s amazing accomplishments for hours on end. Because of this, Spike could answer almost any question about the old warlock that you could possibly think of. “A Star Swirl adventure story! Cool!”

Twilight opened the book and scooted closer to Spike, so he could see the book. The two friends would take turns reading the paragraphs. Twilight started them off, “Star Swirl trekked through the mysterious terrain. The only light came from a waning crescent moon. He turned to his student and personal protege, Clover the Clever. 'Clover, I think we’re lost’ Star Swirl claimed.”

Spike cleared his throat and continued from the next paragraph, “'Don’t worry, teacher’ Clover replied with confidence. 'I know where we're going. We’ll be back to Canterlot by morning’.”

Twilight continued, “'I’m not so sure about that’ Star Swirl told her. 'How can you see the map in this thick darkness?’”

“'Have faith in me, dear teacher’ Clover said. 'I know what I’m doing. But we must be stealthy. The last thing we want is to get caught---”

“What's going on in here?” Ember demanded, entering the small cave in which they were reading.

“Mom!” Spike cried. “I mean, hello, Mom. What brings you here?”

“What is the meaning of this?” Ember asked, anger bubbling up from inside of her. “I sent you two back here to discuss a peace treaty!”

“I'm sorry, Ember,” Twilight said. “We’ll get right on it.”

“All you two are telling me right now is that you don't want peace!” Ember chided. “Spike, I expected so much more from you!”

“What?! But I---”

“And you, Princess,” Ember continued. “You’re here for the future of your subjects and ours. You may leave now and return home.”

“But I just got here,” Twilight protested. “We haven't finished yet.”

“You're obviously not focused today,” Ember said.

Twilight gave in and gave Spike a hug before grabbing her book and rushing for the exit. Spike cried out for her, “Twilight, wait! Don't go!”

Ember put her claw on his shoulder. “Let her go.”

Spike wrenched free. “No! You sent my best friend away early! I only get to see her one or two times a year!”

“Best friend?” Ember was starting to get extremely upset. “You're supposed to be on a professional basis with the royalty of visiting kingdoms.”

“But Mom! It's not fair!” Spike protested.

“It's completely fair,” Ember said through gritted teeth. “She's a pony! Dragons and ponies aren't friends!”

“Just give her a chance!” Spike pleaded. “Ponies are kind!”

“Spike, listen to me!” Ember roared, losing her temper.

Spike flinched in fear, his heart thumping rapidly. His mother had never spoken to him that way before.

“Spike, I’m so sorry,” Ember said with a sigh. “But I need you to listen to me for once. I don't want you to speak of being friends with her again. It's just… not what we do. It's been a law for a long time now. Please?”

Spike glared at her, barely nodded, and stalked away.

Twilight arrived at her castle and shut the door with a sigh. When she made her way over to her throne to sit down, she opened her spiral notebook and began to write a letter to Spike:

Dear Spike,

I am so sorry that I had to leave earlier than normal. I'm unsure of when I will be back to discuss another treaty. I don't know if your mother wants me back anytime soon. In the meantime, please keep me updated on the events happening in the Dragon Lands.

Your friend,

Twilight

Twilight let out a sorrowful sigh as she sent the letter off to Spike. She hoped for a response soon.

Author's Note

Yes, I wanted to test out my shipping skills with TwiSpike. After all, it's been awhile since I've written anything based on it. :raritywink:

Chapter 4: The Rumble Reunion

Scootaloo stood in front of the train station as the big train screeched to a stop. Many ponies that Scootaloo knew had gathered at the train station to say goodbye to Apple Bloom. Today was the day everything changed. She was leaving for college.

“Well, this is my train,” Apple Bloom declared, facing her family and friends. “I'm sure gonna miss all of you.”

“We’ll miss you too,” Sweetie Belle cried.

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle gave Apple Bloom a group hug.

The hug was over too soon for Scootaloo. Apple Bloom would be coming home when summer rolled around, but ten months without Apple Bloom seemed too long.

“Please write us,” Scootaloo pleaded.

“I will,” Apple Bloom said with a giggle.

Scootaloo watched as Apple Bloom went over to her parents to say her goodbye.

“We're gonna miss you so much, sugarcube,” Applejack told her. “Don't forget to write, ya hear me?”

Apple Bloom laughed quietly. “I won't, I promise.”

“And I got your textbooks for you,” Apple Buck added. “You forgot them on the way out the door.”

“Oh, thanks, Papa!” Apple Bloom laughed and took her textbooks from her father to put them in her bag.

“We love you,” Applejack said. “Have a great time.”

“I reckon I will,” Apple Bloom assured.

“Bye, Apple Bloom!” Pinkie Pie shouted after her. “We’ll have a super duper fun welcome party when you get back!”

“With pizza!” Cheese Sandwich added.

Apple Bloom waved to them. “Thank you! I can't wait!”

Apple Bloom made sure she had everything before boarding the train. She waved to everypony out of the window as the train pulled away from the station.

“I miss her already,” Sweetie Belle said.

“Oh, I know,” Rarity agreed. “It’ll be hard for us when you move to Canterlot to pursue your singing career.”

“That's right!” Sweetie Belle remembered. “I’m leaving next week! Oh, I’m not even packed yet!”

“Don't worry,” Fancy Pants assured to her. “We’ll help you to be ready in time.”

Scootaloo's heart sank as she was reminded of Sweetie Belle's departure. Sweetie Belle decided to move to Canterlot, so she could be by some recording studios for her music. She disliked to leave Ponyville, but Ponyville didn't have many high quality recording studios. Sweetie Belle had promised to visit as often as she could, but Scootaloo still felt an overwhelming sadness. Both of her best friends were leaving. She was the only one left.

Scootaloo restrained some tears before everypony started to return home.

Sometimes, Scootaloo would ride her scooter to feel the adrenaline rush. Other times, she rode it to think about the changes in her life. This was one of those times. As Scootaloo sped through Ponyville, she ignored the wind and payed attention to the thoughts running through her mind.

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle had always been a huge part of her life. They were the only two mares who could help her to feel better about her disability and she hung out with them almost every day. Now, the only two ponies she felt close enough to talk to were her parents, but they were often very busy with Wonderbolts business.

When she was snapped back to reality, Scootaloo realized she was heading straight for the side of Sugarcube Corner. She braced herself for the impact before slamming into the building. Dizzily, she arose to her hooves before hearing a familiar voice.

“Why do I keep finding you in crashes?” Rumble asked with a chuckle.

“Why do you keep finding me in the first place?” Scootaloo grumbled.

“Touche,” Rumble replied.

“What are you doing here?” Scootaloo asked.

“You crashed again,” Rumble said. “I wanted to check on you and make sure that you were okay.”

“That's very nice of you,” Scootaloo said. “I’m fine. Thanks.”

“Are you sure?” Rumble wondered. “You seem a little upset.”

“I'm fine,” Scootaloo repeated, firmly.

“Here, why don't we take a little fly?” Rumble suggested. “It might help to take your mind off things. It always helps me. Maybe we can even talk about it along the way.”

“No!” Scootaloo exclaimed, quickly. “It's okay! I don't want to bother you.”

“Trust me, you're not bothering me,” Rumble assured. “My Dad and I do this all the time.” He sighed. “Well, we used to anyway.”

“I'm not going to do it, okay?” Scootaloo said. “I just can't!”

“Why not? I mean, what's stopping you?”

“I can't fly!” Scootaloo blurted out.

Rumble was stunned as he just stared at Scootaloo. Scootaloo began to tear up. “I… I can't fly.”

Scootaloo tried to wipe her tears away before they fell.

“Wh-why not?” Rumble wondered. He had never heard anything like it.

“I was born with earth pony bones,” Scootaloo admitted. “They weigh me down. My own body is working against me! I can't even get up into the air! I can't fly!” Scootaloo paused to restrain a few more stubborn tears. “It doesn't help that my best friends are moving away and that my parents can't be around as often as I want them to be!”

“I get how that feels now,” Rumble said. “Ever since my Dad became a full-time Wonderbolt, he’s never been around that much anymore. I used to tell him everything. We were so close.”

“Well, at least you have your Mom,” Scootaloo said.

“I'm just not comfortable with talking to my Mom,” Rumble admitted. “She's very caring and awesome and I love her and everything, but… I’ve always told everything to my Dad. I'm not ready to switch to my Mom.”

“Oh,” Scootaloo managed. “I’ve always been so close to my Mom and my Dad. I could always talk to both of them.”

Rumble chuckled. “That sounds nice. I wish I could be in your position.”

“No, you don't!” Scootaloo said. “You're an amazing flyer. I can tell from your attitude and your cutie mark.”

“Yeah, us flyers can get pretty cocky,” Rumble reluctantly agreed.

“If you were in my position, you’d be stuck on the ground for life,” Scootaloo continued. “If anything, I’d rather be you.”

Rumble looked as if he was in thought for a moment. “Hey… flying doesn't come from skill. At least, in my opinion. Flying comes from deep down inside of you. It's more of… an art than a sport. I’ve got an idea.”

“You do?” a confused Scootaloo wondered.

“What if I taught you to fly?” Rumble asked.

“You can't teach me to fly,” Scootaloo claimed.

“How do you know?” Rumble replied. “Has anyone ever tried to teach you how to fly?”

“No,” Scootaloo said, softly. “Since I was told that it was impossible, no one ever thought to attempt to teach me.”

“There are ponies who will tell you that it's impossible,” Rumble told her. “Guess the only thing you can do is try to prove them wrong.”

“But---”

“Hey,” Rumble assured, softly. “It looks like you could really use a friend right now.”

Scootaloo hesitated. She did want someone to hang out with since her friends were leaving.

Rumble held out a hoof towards her. “So, is it a yes or…?”

Scootaloo bumped her hoof against his. “Yes.”

“Great,” Rumble said with a smug smile. “Let's get started tomorrow.”

Scootaloo nodded. “Deal.”

Rumble smiled at her before waving goodbye. “See you later, Scootaloo!”

“Bye, Rumble!” Scootaloo replied.

As she hopped onto her scooter to ride home, she smiled. It warmed her heart to know that she had a new friend by her side. She smiled eagerly. Maybe she would even learn to fly along the way.

Author's Note

What do you think so far? As I mentioned previously, I appreciate honest feedback! :twilightsmile: :pinkiehappy:

Chapter 5: The Flight Fiasco

“Mom, Dad, I’m home!” Scootaloo announced.

“Hey, Scoots,” Rainbow Dash greeted. “Dinner’s ready.”

“Okay, I’ll be down in a minute!” Scootaloo replied. “Let me just go up to my room real quick.”

Scootaloo ran up to her room and smiled at the poster Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich made her sitting on her nightstand. Scootaloo held it in her hooves and smiled at the thoughtful gift. She turned it over to see the message written legibly on the other side: Never give up. Love, Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich.

Scootaloo looked at their message now with a newfound determination. She hung it up on her wall as she looked at it on exhilaration.

Scootaloo turned to the stuffed rabbit Sweetie Belle had given her, still lying on her bed. It was old, ratty, and looked like it had landed in the mud once or twice. She still talked to the worn-out rabbit like it was a live-in best friend. “This is it, Bouncy! I’m really gonna fly this time!”

Bouncy fell slightly to the right.

“I'm excited too, Bouncy!” Scootaloo picked Bouncy up in her hooves and showed the plush rabbit the poster she had just stuck to the wall. “Isn't it amazing?!”

Scootaloo shook Bouncy to make the rabbit slightly bob its head up and down.

“Scootaloo!” Rainbow Dash called. “Come on!”

“Coming!” Scootaloo tossed Bouncy back on her bed before running downstairs.

Scootaloo sat down at the table with a grin on her face.

“Someone looks happy,” Rainbow Dash said with a chuckle. “What's up?”

“Nothing,” Scootaloo claimed. “I just met a stallion who’s going to teach me how to fly!”

“To fly?” Rainbow Dash was shocked.

“A stallion?!” Soarin exclaimed.

“Yeah, his name is Rumble,” Scootaloo announced.

“Thunderlane's son?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Yeah,” Scootaloo clarified. “He found me when I crashed my scooter into the side of Sugarcube Corner and he's going to teach me to fly! Although… he never said where we would meet again. Maybe I could wait in Sugarcube Corner tomorrow.”

“Awesome!” Rainbow Dash said.

“Wait, wait, wait!” Soarin said. “We’re just going to let her see this stallion she just met?”

“Thunderlane's a nice guy,” Rainbow Dash told him. “I'm sure Rumble is great too. You're just worried that your little girl is growing up.” She smirked at her husband.

“Of course I’m not!” Soarin replied. “I'm just trying to make sure that she's safe.”

Rainbow Dash snickered. “Okay.”

“If he really does teach me to fly, I can do all I want to and more!” Scootaloo exclaimed. “Isn’t that awesome? Aren't you happy for me?!”

“We sure are!” Rainbow Dash replied. “I'm proud of you, Scoots. Your determination will inspire many other ponies.”

Rainbow Dash playfully ruffled Scootaloo's mane.

Soarin smiled warmly. “And I’m proud too. I’m sure you’ll be an excellent flyer one day.”

“Thanks, Mom and Dad,” Scootaloo said. “I love you guys!”

Scootaloo embraced both of her parents with glee. The family shared a tender embrace before Scootaloo pulled away.

“I’m hungry,” Scootaloo declared. “What do you say we eat some dinner now?”

“I say that's a great idea,” Soarin said.

The family exchanged a laugh.

The next morning, Scootaloo entered Sugarcube Corner. Pinkie Pie greeted her when she walked through the door, “Hiya, Scootaloo! What brings you here?”

“I'm meeting someone,” Scootaloo said. She looked around. “Do you have a customer named Rumble by chance?”

“Yes indeedy!” Pinkie Pie giggled. “Rumble comes in every Tuesday and Thursday.”

“Wow, I’m lucky I happened to show up on a Thursday,” Scootaloo said.

“It must be fate,” Pinkie Pie told her mysteriously. “Can I get you anything?”

“I don't have any money,” Scootaloo replied.

“That's okay,” Pinkie Pie said. “You’re a friend! It's on me.”

“Thank you, Pinkie Pie!” Scootaloo exclaimed. “I’ll have a slice of the chocolate chip cookie dough dream cake.”

“Great choice!” Pinkie Pie said with a wink. Pinkie Pie placed it on a paper plate before passing it over to Scootaloo. “Here you are!”

“Thank you,” Scootaloo said.

“You're welcome,” Pinkie Pie returned.

Cheese Sandwich came out of the kitchen covered in flour. He sneezed and a cloud of flour was released into the air. “Pinkie, there's been a situation!”

“Again?” Pinkie Pie asked.

“They just won't relax!” Cheese Sandwich cried. “Either they're in the kitchen helping me bake or they're not in there at all!” He flicked some flour out of his mane.

Pound and Pumpkin Cake, the twins of Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich, ran out of the kitchen, tossing around a chef's hat as if it were a playground ball.

The five-year old colt and filly ran around out of control. Over the years, Pinkie Pie successfully got pregnant with twins. When the fraternal twins were born, they were two different pony types than Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich. Pound Cake was a pegasus and Pumpkin Cake was a unicorn. They didn't know it was possible for them to carry the genes of other pony types, but they loved the twins even more than they loved parties. However, they were rowdy and hard to control, even for the two crazy party ponies.

“Heads up!” Pound Cake hollered, flying up into the air.

Scootaloo sighed. Even the son of two earth ponies can fly, she thought.

Pumpkin Cake used her magic to toss the chef hat to Pound Cake. He swooped down and caught it in between his teeth.

“Pound, Pumpkin! Please calm down!” Pinkie Pie pleaded. “Why don't you go help your Dad in the kitchen?”

“But Mom! It's boring!” Pound Cake whined.

“No, baking can be fun!” Pinkie Pie replied. “Think of it like… potion making! You need all of the ingredients mixed in correctly to make a scrumptious cake!”

“Cool!” the twins marveled.

“Let's go help Dad make potions!” Pumpkin Cake shouted.

“Yeah!” Pound Cake cheered.

The two twins ran eagerly into the kitchen. Cheese Sandwich sighed in relief. “Thanks, Pinkie.” He gave her a quick peck on the cheek before going back into the kitchen.

“Twins giving you trouble?” Scootaloo asked with a laugh.

“A little bit, but you just have to know how to make chores sound fun!” Pinkie Pie explained. “Cheesy and I can get them to do anything!”

The tinkling of a bell drew Pinkie Pie and Scootaloo's attention to the door.

“Hi, Rumble!” Pinkie Pie greeted. “Right on schedule!”

Scootaloo smiled and blushed as Rumble’s features brightened when he saw her. She didn't know what it was, but something about Rumble made her heart skip a beat.

Rumble sat down next to Scootaloo. “Hey, Scootaloo! I hoped that I would run into you. I want to start teaching you to fly.”

“I would love that!” Scootaloo claimed. “I can't wait!”

“Great!” Rumble replied. “After I have a little something here, we’ll go out and begin chasing your dreams!”

Scootaloo smiled and closed her eyes as she imagined herself finally being able to lift herself off of the ground. She saw the blue of the sky and heard the rush of the wind. She felt the adrenaline rushing through her body and she tasted the clean, fresh air. She smelled the blissful smell of fresh fallen rain. It was amazing. Scootaloo enjoyed every second of it.

“Scootaloo?” Rumble asked.

Scootaloo was snapped back into reality by the sound of Rumble's voice, but it didn't make her sad. By Rumble's side, all of her dreams would turn into reality. She made a mental note to give credit to Rumble when she became a Wonderbolt.

“Pinkie Pie, I need some Prench Bread and some cream cheese!” Rumble said.

“Coming right up!” Pinkie Pie said.

Pinkie Pie reached under the table and placed some bread in a package. She grabbed a container of cream cheese and passed Rumble’s order over to him. “That’ll be three bits, please.”

Rumble passed three bits over to Pinkie Pie and she put them in the cash register. “Thanks, Rumble!”

“No problem,” Rumble replied, mouth already full of bread.

After Rumble finished off the bread and cream cheese, he tossed the empty container in the garbage can. He turned to Scootaloo. “Ready to fly?”

Scootaloo felt her heart jump inside of her chest. “Am I ever!”

Scootaloo felt a nervousness begin to rise up in her chest. Rumble and Scootaloo stood in a desolate field, flowering with plants of all kinds.

“Okay,” Rumble began. “Spread your wings.”

Scootaloo spread her wings and took a deep breath, preparing herself to take off into flight.

“Now, just lift your hooves off of the ground and flap your wings,” Rumble instructed.

Scootaloo groaned. “Don't you think I’ve tried?!”

“Scootaloo,” Rumble said patiently. “Just do it, okay? I’ll tell you what to do next.”

Scootaloo hesitated before lifting her hooves off the ground and flapping her wings. She attempted to rise higher, but she yelped as she fell back to the ground.

“Is that as high as you can go?” Rumble wondered.

“Yes,” Scootaloo said in shame. “I’m sorry.”

“No, don't be,” Rumble assured. “I get that your bones are weighing you down. You’ll have to work and get stronger, so you can carry that weight. You’ll get stronger as we go along. For now, just go as high as you can.”

Scootaloo went as high as she could. She sighed in embarrassment when she realized she was no more than nine inches off of the ground.

“Okay, now the trick is to make your wings work together in unison,” Rumble continued. “Instead of focusing on getting yourself higher into the air or the speed of your flight, try to focus on flapping your wings simultaneously. That's the first thing you start with. My Dad taught me this when I was a young colt.”

Scootaloo focused on flapping her wings together in unison. Suddenly, Scootaloo felt herself begin to move forward. Slowly, but she was moving. “Wow!”

“Great job, Scootaloo!” Rumble cheered. “That's it! That's flying!”

“That's all?” Scootaloo questioned.

“Pretty much,” Rumble said. “There's a little more to it like learning how to go faster and doing tricks and stunts. Once you learn to carry your weight and get higher off of the ground, we can work on that.”

“Thank you!” Scootaloo exclaimed.

She landed on the ground and wrapped her arms around Rumble affectionately. Rumble felt himself blush slightly and laughed nervously as he awkwardly returned the embrace.

Scootaloo smiled to herself. She promised herself that she would work to get better at flying.

Author's Note

And I promise it's only going to get more interesting from here! Especially with Twilight and Spike! There's a lot of hurdles they'll have to leap over.

Chapter 6: The Terrible Tradition

Dear Twilight,

I hope that you can come back to the Dragon Lands soon. It’s not fun here without you. Not a lot has been going on that I can write about. I’ve been told that next year is my “coming of age”. It’s a dragon tradition. Whenever a dragon turns eighteen, it’s important that they find a mate to spawn the next generation of younglings and keep the dragon race abundant.

Since I’m a prince, I have to follow the dragon royalty laws which seem unjust to me. The mother of a prince or princess chooses the dragon’s future mate. This way, the dragon that the prince or princess marry is a worthy future ruler to be the Dragon Lord’s consort. I never knew my Dad, but I wish I could talk to him about my feelings. Maybe, he was just as upset when Ember’s father chose him to marry her.

But enough about the Dragon Lands. It’s all tradition and order over here. I want to hear more about Ponyville. The way you describe it makes it sound so exotic and carefree. It sounds a lot more upbeat than the situation over here in the volcanoes.

Awaiting your response,

Spike

Twilight sighed as she repeatedly skimmed over the letter, taking in all of the information multiple times. Anger broiled up inside of her as she realized Spike had no choice in who he was married off to. The lack of freedoms in the Dragon Lands was irritating Twilight more every time she visited.

Narrowing her eyes in determination, she picked up the quill with her magic and scribbled a note down on the scroll swiftly:

Spike,

I’m coming.

Twilight

As soon as her letter was whisked away in the burst of magic, she arose from her throne, threw open the gates to the front of her castle, and took flight into the night.

Scootaloo let her eyes wander around her bedroom. The boredom she felt was starting to push her over the brink. As usual, her parents were at practice, leaving Scootaloo home alone.

Scootaloo picked up Bouncy and dropped him a few times in an attempt to create mild entertainment for herself. After finding out that Bouncy didn’t actually bounce, Scootaloo tossed him aside and sprawled out onto her bed, letting out a soft moan of discontent.

She rolled over to catch sight of the journal Twilight had given her for her fifth birthday thirteen years ago. She leaned over to grab the journal off of the nightstand. She quickly flipped through the gift and it was exactly how it was when she had first opened it. Every page was blank.

Scootaloo set it back on the nightstand and crossed her arms defiantly. She wasn't going to let her boredom get the best of her. Scootaloo disliked writing and Twilight's gift had gone unused for years. Scootaloo kept it merely because she liked Twilight's note.

Scootaloo sat up and began to pace the floor. Something needed to be done to release her pent-up energy. She finally settled on going for a ride on her scooter. She knew that an autumn chill was starting to appear in the air, but Scootaloo didn't mind. Scootaloo liked the feeling of frigid wind hitting her face.

Scootaloo started towards the front door for her scooter, but she spotted her Mom’s sleepy pet tortoise, Tank. He hibernated each winter and she surmised that he was preparing. Scootaloo decided to fill Tank’s food bowl before leaving. Fluttershy had told her that animals needed to eat a lot before their hibernation.

Scootaloo opened the door and grabbed her helmet off of the handles of her scooter. She fastened her helmet onto her head before heading down the ramp.

As she felt herself gaining momentum, she let out a whoop. She leapt off of the ramp and soared through the air for a few seconds before hitting the ground.

Scootaloo took in her blurry surroundings. Just for that moment, she felt like the fastest pony in existence. Like everything else was going in slow motion. Scootaloo inhaled the autumn air. She was free.

Scootaloo finally came to a gradual stop in Town Square. Ponies trotted by and gave her friendly smiles and waves. Scootaloo waved back.

“Nice moves!” a nearby voice exclaimed.

Scootaloo felt her muzzle grow warm as she turned to see Rumble sitting on a bench just a few feet away. “Thanks,” she replied.

Rumble scooted over and patted the spot on the bench right next to him. Scootaloo removed her helmet and placed it back on the handles of her scooter before taking a seat by Rumble.

“What are you doing out here?” Rumble wondered. “You just going for a ride in Town Square?”

Scootaloo nodded. “Yes.”

“Me too,” Rumble said. “My Dad's at practice again and Mom’s at work.”

“She's only a few blocks away,” a confused Scootaloo claimed.

Rumble sighed with embarrassment. “Well… I’m not over there.”

“Is everything alright between you and your Mom?” Scootaloo inquired.

Rumble turned to her with a small smile. “Yeah, everything's fine. I’d just… rather not see her have a nervous breakdown. She has them a lot less when Dad comes home.”

“Understandable,” Scootaloo said. “But if I were you, I'd cherish every moment I got to spend with my Mom. Because… my Mom is always busy. So is my Dad for that matter.”

Rumble didn't say anything. Rumble and Scootaloo just shared that moment of silence, lost in thought.

Twilight’s eyes fluttered open as she was greeted by the morning sun. “Oh my Celestia! How long was I asleep for?!”

Twilight stood up from the cloud she had camped out on. The journey to the Dragon Lands was an overnight trip and there weren't any trains at Ponyville Station that led directly to the Dragon Lands. She always had to take the journey herself. Every time a letter from Spike protesting her arrival came shooting out in front of her, she’d ignore it. She needed to get to Spike right away. He was her best friend and she wasn't about to let him be married off to a random dragon like he was an object.

Judging by the position of her shadow, Twilight assumed that it was noon or at least close to noon. Sweet Celestia, I must have been exhausted last night, she thought.

Twilight stretched her wings in and out a few times to get the blood pumping through them. Afterwards, she took off in flight once more scanning the ground for the Dragon Lands.

The journey was, overall, a pleasant one from the sky. She could fly above every location and she loved her view. However, sometimes she’d have to fly through extreme weather conditions and only the Wonderbolts were experienced with that. Twilight was tossed and thrown in all directions by high winds and snow.

After getting through every obstacle and landmark, the Dragon Lands finally caught her eye from below.

A smile spread across Twilight's lips. It was time to set the record straight.

Chapter 7: The Restless Night

“You're doing great, Scootaloo!” Rumble assured. “Keep going!”

Still no more than nine inches off of the ground, Scootaloo grunted as she worked to carry her own weight. Sweat began to trickle down the side of her face as she cried out from the exertion.

“Remember, focus on flapping those wings in unison,” Rumble advised.

“I’m trying!” Scootaloo cried.

“And you're doing great!” Rumble claimed. “But if you strain yourself too hard, you're going to pass out. Fly at a height that feels comfortable and supportive for your weight.”

Scootaloo sighed as she dropped a few inches from the air. She found the ability to fly a lot easier at this height, but now she was only six inches away from land. That was a decrease from the last time she flew. She didn't understand why she wasn't improving.

Finally, Scootaloo gave into her exhaustion, dropping to the ground. All at once, tears came streaming down her face and she cried out in frustration.

Rumble galloped over to her side and helped her to her hooves. “Hey, what's wrong?”

Scootaloo looked at Rumble who appeared blurry through her misty eyes. “Can't you see?! I’ll never fly! Nothing ever works!”

Scootaloo began to trot over to her scooter and fasten her helmet over her head. Rumble rushed over to her.

“Wait!” Rumble exclaimed. “Where are you going?”

“Home,” Scootaloo replied, numbly. “Thanks for trying to help, Rumble, but as you can see, I’m a hopeless case.”

“You can't quit,” Rumble protested. “Not now!”

“And why can't I?” Scootaloo asked, a little harsher than she had meant to. “It’s been two weeks now and I haven't even improved a little.”

Rumble exhaled sadly. “My Dad used to give me the best advice there was about flying. He used to tell me… great flyers aren't born. They're made. Made from practice, perseverance, and most of all… patience. You can't become a great flyer overnight, Scootaloo. I promise that if we keep working on your ability, you’ll begin to see that improvement. It’ll be slow at first, but… it’ll happen.”

“A-are you sure?” Scootaloo stammered, trying to wipe her bitter tears away.

“Yeah,” Rumble said. He smirked, “Have I ever been wrong?”

Scootaloo smiled a little and rolled her eyes. “Not yet.”

Rumble shrugged off Scootaloo’s remark. “Let's see if I ever am.”

Scootaloo chuckled to herself and looked up at the sky. Her heart began to beat faster again as she thought of the freedom of flight. Can I really do it?, she thought.

Dinner that night was overall silent. Rainbow Dash had picked up takeout on the way home and that's what they ate.

Scootaloo stared at the food in front of her. It didn't look all that appetizing to her. She didn't feel hungry. She just felt tired and slightly discouraged.

“Scootaloo? Is everything okay?” Rainbow Dash questioned.

Scootaloo plastered on a fake smile. “Everything's great, Mom!”

“Hmm… if you say so,” Rainbow Dash said, unconvinced.

“How did your flight lessons with Rumble go today?” Soarin asked.

“Fine,” Scootaloo replied quickly. “Listen, I’m not that hungry, so I’m going to go to bed. Night!”

Rainbow Dash and Soarin exchanged a worried glance, but gave in with a sigh. “Goodnight, Scoots,” Rainbow Dash returned.

Scootaloo trotted over to the stairs, looked at the wings on her back, and attempted to fly upstairs. She tried to heed the advice that Rumble had given her. For her first attempt without Rumble by her side, she did pretty well. But Scootaloo had to admit that she liked it better when Rumble was there to encourage her.

Scootaloo entered her room and looked around at her familiar surroundings as she prepared for bed. The Wonderbolts poster from Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich. Bouncy sat in his usual spot on Scootaloo's bed. The journal that Twilight had made for her which still remained empty. She breathed a small sigh of relief. Even though she was fond of Twilight, Scootaloo was glad that Twilight didn't come around often enough to see that she hadn't used the gift she had put her heart and soul into.

As she turned out the light and made herself comfortable in bed, Scootaloo stared at the ceiling in the darkness. She had been tired earlier, but now she was wide awake. Her mind was too active for rest.

Scootaloo tried hugging Bouncy closer to her for comfort. She tried putting her pillow over her head. She tried different sleeping positions and took the blankets on and off. However, nothing got her to sleep. She was restless and she didn't know why.

Scootaloo sighed as she heard her parents exchange a goodnight kiss and head off to bed from the hallway. Scootaloo began to feel like she was the only one awake in all of Equestria. To Scootaloo, it wasn't a pleasant feeling. It was lonely and she felt like there was nopony to talk to.

All night, Scootaloo continued her futile attempts to get to sleep until the sun finally started to peak over the horizon.

Scootaloo turned over as she finally realized why she had been up all night. She just couldn't wait to get started again. Rumble would be waiting for her.

Twilight came in for a landing at the Dragon Lands. She had to let her hooves adjust to the rock underneath them. After flying for hours on end, being in the sky had begun to feel more natural.

As Twilight let her eyes scan the area to search for Spike, she hid herself behind large boulders and open crevices along the way. Finally, she found Spike sitting alone near the spot he slept each night. He was rolling a pebble in between his fingers and looking at it with an expression of hopelessness.

In an attempt not to alert other dragons of her arrival, she called out to Spike as quietly as possible, “Spike! I’m here!”

Spike seemed to hear the noises of Twilight’s call, but not the words. He looked around in confusion before rising to his feet and walking over to the spot he had heard her speak. Peeking around the corner, his eyes widened when he saw her. “Twilight? I told you not to come!” he whispered to her.

“I had to do something,” Twilight insisted, stepping out of her hiding spot. “You think I’m really going to let your mother choose who you spend the rest of your life with? I mean, how long do dragons live again?”

“About one thousand to two thousand years depending on the type and health,” Spike replied. “But I’ll be fine. I promise. There’s a few good-hearted dragons here… maybe. I don’t really know for sure.”

“I haven’t seen any good-hearted dragons here, but you,” Twilight said. “Maybe your mother is more than she seems to be as well, but I don’t think you’d have a happy marriage with any dragon here.”

Spike smiled at her, but Twilight could see there was still sadness in his eyes. “I appreciate that you want to help, Twilight, but there’s nothing we can do. My mother is the most stubborn dragon that I know. Once she makes up her mind, there’s no changing it.”

“But there is something we can do,” Twilight told him. Using her magic, she made a parchment appear in front of them with a quill. “We need to write a declaration about your decision to marry the dragon you choose and get your mother to sign it. Simple. We don’t need her approval. We just need her to be a little… absent-minded. We’ll catch her at the right time, so that she doesn’t know what she’s agreeing to. Then by the time she realizes what she’s done and tries to revoke the agreement, it’ll be too late. Because you’ll have already made up your mind!”

“I will?” Spike questioned. “How?”

“While we’re writing the declaration, we just need you to get to know a few dragons and decide on the one who makes you the happiest,” Twilight continued. “It’ll be better than being forced to resign to your mother’s choice.”

Spike grinned at her. “You always have the best plans in mind, Twilight.”

“Aw, thanks, Spike,” Twilight said, blushing slightly. “Let’s get started! What should we write?”

Spike smiled. He knew exactly how he was going to carry out Twilight’s plan.

Author's Note

Boy, I haven't updated this story in ages! I hope you guys loved this chapter!

If you have any feedback on the story, please leave it in the comments! Thank you so much for reading. :heart: