A Dash Of Obedience

The weathermare landed by the square, gazing at the crowd of townsponies, looking for a particular filly. Dash examined the bustling throng as ponies walked to and fro. It took only a moment for Dash to locate her target since Scootaloo had just walked out of a small licorice shop. The orange pegasus grinned with a few strands of strawberry licorice in her mouth and a chipper bounce in her gait. Rainbow rapidly dashed forward and the young pony was startled when a cyan blur grabbed her and lifted her in the air. The commotion nearly made Scootaloo choke on her candy.

“Ack!” She said, before removing the sugary snack from her mouth. “Rainbow Dash!”

“The one and only! Hey there, Squirt! Sorry for the surprise.”

“Pssh, don’t worry about it. It’s always great to see you.” Scootaloo replied, adjusting herself to hang comfortably from the back of Rainbow’s neck. Once she was settled in, Rainbow kicked off the ground and ascended.

Rainbow flew high, setting her sights on a patch of cirrocumulus clouds. She pushed a group of them into a collective solid tuft and set Scootaloo down on it. The prismatic pegasus joined the school-aged pony on the cloud formation.

“It’s later. And I’ve got news for you.”

“Oh, right, the letter! How’d it go, Rainbow Dash?”

Rainbow grinned, wanting to pull the same prank she had used on her friends earlier. She hastily replaced her happy expression with a forlorn one that showed despair and despondency.

“I didn’t get in, Scoots. Can you believe that?”

“What?!” Scootaloo spat incredulously. “How could they possibly deny YOU of all ponies a place at the Wonderbolts Academy?”

Rainbow shook her head solemnly, appearing pensieve.

“That was my reaction too! I re-read the letter in astonishment, but they rejected me. What gives? I’m fast and awesome! I’d be a great addition to the team.”

Scootaloo snorted, sharing the anger at this upsetting news.

“You’re right, Rainbow Dash! Those Wonderbolts are a bunch of jerks. I can’t believe they’d pass you up. They’re missing out on a great flier and a totally awesome pony.”

Scootaloo raised a piece of candy to her mouth, nomming it absentmindedly when Rainbow spoke up again.

“Spitfire claimed I’d be too much of a ‘hectic nuisance.” Rainbow stated while making air quotes with her hooves.

Scootaloo glowered at this piece of information as Rainbow Dash continued.

“She told me to apply again when I ‘git gud, chump’. I’m totally crushed.”

Rainbow hung her head low, gesticulating her sorrow with dramatic sobs and pouts.

The filly scowled in vexation and spat her licorice onto the cloud.

“That featherbrain has no idea what she’s talking about!” She screeched, punching the cloud in anger. The force created a small hole in the base of the cirrocumulus.

At this point, Dash couldn’t continue the ruse. She barreled over in a laughing fit, kicking her hooves in the air. Scootaloo watched with perplexion.

“Rainbow? What’s so funny? The captain that leads the team you idolize said you were-”

“Absolutely admitted and welcomed me as a recruit to the academy!” Rainbow interjected.

Scootaloo was flabbergasted, opening and closing her muzzle a few times.

“But… But… You just said...”

“It was a joke, Scoots! Of course they accepted me. I got the letter right here if you want to see for yourself.” Rainbow replied, puffing her chest out in a show of satisfaction.

Rainbow unclasped her saddlebag, reaching with her muzzle to grab the rolled up letter with her teeth. She flung her head towards Scootaloo and released her grip. The scroll landed right near the filly’s hooves.

Sweet! Perfect throw. You really got the moves, Dash!

Scotaloo pushed a hoof to unfurl it. The small tomboyish pegasus gave a look of uncertainty to Rainbow Dash. Spotting an affirmative nod from her idol, her eyes drifted lower to read.

Dear Rainbow Dash,

It is with great pride that I hereby welcome you as a recruit to the Wonderbolts Academy. You’ve shown excellent qualities that would make you a promising member of this team. Speed. Fierceness. Determination. These are traits we all share and value. Having met you ponysally at the Gala last year, I’m aware that your dream is to join us. However, you’re a long way before that day comes, kid. You must prove your worth as a plausible Wonderbolt and graduate from the Wonderbolts Academy. This is not going to be an easy feat. Many confident pegasi have been accepted as recruits in the past and couldn’t handle our rigorous training schedule and flying routines. They dropped out. This warning isn’t meant to deter you, but to inform you on what you’ll expect from us, and what we’ll expect from you. Not everypony is cut out to be a Wonderbolt. Determination only goes so far. Results are what get opportunities. If you intend to join our team one day, you must first prove yourself here. You’re expected Monday, October 17th, at 9 a.m. sharp. The academy is located about five miles east of Cloudsdale, just shy of Neighagra Falls. Approach at a high altitude, as the academy is much easier to spot when you’re above the clouds.

Good luck, recruit. You’ll need it. Altus Volare.

Captain of the Wonderbolts,

Spitfire

Scootaloo re-read the letter and then proudly beamed at the older pegasus. This was her hero’s dream and Scootaloo was shimmering with adoration at her icon, happily sharing the moment together.

“Omgosh! Congratulations, Rainbow Dash! I’m super happy you’re getting this opportunity. You definitely deserve it.”

Rainbow grinned back at her number-one fan and nuzzled her.

“Thanks, Scoots! I know I’ll be just awesome!”

Scootaloo frowned and asked Rainbow a question. Something had flummoxed her about the letter.

“What does ‘Altus Volare’ mean?”

“Oh, that? It's old Equestrian tongue. It translates to ‘Fly High’. The Wonderbolts have used that motto for centuries. I think it sounds pretty cool.”

Rainbow glanced in all directions, making sure there were no other ponies around. The coast was clear so Rainbow grabbed Scootaloo by the cheeks and placed a loving smooch on the filly’s muzzle. A five second kiss was shared between them.

When they parted their embrace, Scootaloo asked, “You really love kissing me, don’t you, Rainbow Dash?”

Rainbow played it cool, shrugging. “I only kiss the coolest of ponies.”

Scootaloo gave a bashful grin, turning a pinkish shade before tackling Rainbow, sending the pegasus on her back. The filly swiftly straddled on top of the weathermare and kissed her back passionately. Both ponies snogged in ecstasy. After a minute, they disconnected their lips.

Scootaloo pouted. “Wait. Monday, October 17th? That’s the day after tomorrow.”

Rainbow gave her a weak and pained smile. “Yeah. I’ll be gone from Ponyville for a while.”

Scootaloo sighed sadly, but didn’t want to appear insensitive. While sorrowful, she was immensely happy Rainbow Dash had the chance to make her dreams a reality.

“I got the picture. But I’ll miss you a lot, Rainbow Dash. Ponyville won’t be the same with you gone. You made this town more vivacious.”

Rainbow raised an inquisitive eyebrow.

“Another vocabulary lesson…” Rainbow began.

“With Twilight.” Scoots finished.

RD still gave the filly a questionable gaze and Scootaloo shrugged, before getting off the mare and allowing Rainbow to return to her hooves.

“What? Hey, it’s useful! She taught me that word three days ago and I had a chance to use it.”

Rainbow laughed and hugged the filly, giving Scootaloo’s mane a rub of appreciation.

“I’ll miss you and everypony else in town too, Squirt. But don’t be sad. Before you know it, I’ll likely come back as a full-fledged member of The Wonderbolts!”

“Well, duh. You don’t have to tell me that, Rainbow Dash!”

Rainbow prodded Scootaloo’s chest playfully. “But we’ve still got almost thirty-six hours to go before I’m expected there. I’m already packed. So I’ve got loads of free time!”

Hearing this, Scootaloo gave Rainbow Dash a sly smirk and her eyes became half-lidden. She raised her head towards the weatherpony.

“Meaning?”

“I think you know what I’m implying here, Scoots.”

“Maybe. Or maybe I’m such an ‘innocent filly’ who is totally clueless, but will understand once the ‘great’ Rainbow Dash spells it out.”

Rainbow snorted in mock anger, knowing Scootaloo clearly got the implication, but still wanted her to speak the desires.

“I’m saying we’ve got plenty of available time for fun before I head out for the academy.”

Scootaloo guffawed at the revelation and gently kissed the mare again. When they broke, the orange pegasus replied.

“Now was that so difficult to say, Dashie?”

Rainbow didn’t answer, but turned a deep shade of crimson from the taunting.

“Of course I’d not deny you some more playtime. Although, I was quite happy with simply providing ‘breakfast’ before. It’s almost two in the afternoon. Just in time for lunch, isn’t it?” Scootaloo raised an eyebrow at Rainbow.

In response, Dash picked up a stick of licorice and stuck it in Scootaloo’s mouth.

“Hush! You’re talking too cocky lately. That’s MY job.”

Her eyebrow still raised, Scootaloo idly chewed and swallowed the stick of licorice and smacking her lips before retorting. “Oh please. You love what I do to you.”

Rainbow stammered, the profound tinge color in her cheeks appearing more full and darker.

“Yeah. I won’t deny that. You’ve done things to me internally and externally that I’ve never had with anypony before.”

The reply caused Scootaloo to squee in excitement and the filly lowered her eyebrow.

“So true. I’m aware of what makes you squirm, squeal, and smile. You’re in good hooves with me, Dashie.”

Rainbow swallowed nervously, wondering what the young pony was thinking. Dash looked downwards and noticed Scootaloo with a devious grin plastered on her muzzle.

“Heh. What’s that look for, Squirt?”

“I thought of a really fun game we can play together, Rainbow. I think you’d love it.”

“Oh really?” Dash challenged.

“But I won’t spoil it. Why ruin a fun surprise, right?”

Rainbow felt a shiver traverse down her spine while locked in a staring contest with the filly. As Scootaloo’s eyes glistened with excitement, Rainbow glanced away.

“Come on. Let’s have some jolly enjoyment. Don’t forget your acceptance letter.”

Thanking her biggest fan, Rainbow bowed towards the scroll and clamped it tightly in her teeth. She used a hoof to open the saddlebag, then put the missive carefully inside before closing it.

Scootaloo happily gamboled in place and spoke with jubilance, earnestly telling Rainbow to hurry up as she didn’t want to waste a second.

Dash gave a titter from the energetic filly and lowered her body, allowing Scootaloo to climb up. The orange pegasus obliged, and Rainbow jumped from the cloud, opening her wings, gliding gently and gracefully, aided by the wind that ruffled her feathers.

“Stop back in the town square, Dash. There’s something I need to get for our fun.”

Rainbow didn’t think twice. She fluttered majestically, her cyan feathers expanding with a few lazy flaps of her wings. The two made landfall back at the square in seconds and Scootaloo happily jumped off Rainbow’s back. The weathermare watched with curiosity, but Scootaloo beckoned her to follow with a waved inverted hoof.

Both walked down the cobblestone, their hooves clip-clopping with each trot. Rainbow continued to gaze at Scootaloo, pondering what the filly had in mind. The young pegasus was often unpredictable. Dash shook her head, chortling gently. Wherever Scootaloo was heading would be known eventually.

Why get antsy and befuddled over things that’ll soon become apparent?

Rainbow noticed Scootaloo turning down a side street and she followed. Both of them walked forward in silence a bit longer before the younger pony spoke up.

“After playing with you a few times, I’m getting the sense of what things you enjoy. So I’ve got a great surprise for you later. You’ll definitely love it.”

The filly craned her head and winked at Rainbow Dash, who quickly grew a tinged blush on her cheeks. Dash performed a double take on the side road, glad nopony had seen or heard Scootaloo’s brazen actions.

Scootaloo turned left and Dash followed. After a few more minutes of silence, the pair found themselves in front of a pet store and Scootaloo stopped in front of it. This earned a confused stare from the weathermare, but Scootaloo offered a quick explanation.

“Apple Bloom wanted to get some new high-fiber treats for Winona, but she’s doing chores and can’t buy them. It’ll only take a few minutes, Rainbow. I’ll be out in a jiffy.”

Scootaloo trotted inside the store, causing the bell overhead to jingle and chime.

Rainbow stood outside, yawning in boredom. She idly perused the sky, noticing a few pegasi flying above. Seeing them made Dash want to take to the air again. But she waited for her number one fan. After what felt like hours, but was really ten minutes, the bell jingled again and the orange pegasus emerged from the store with a medium sized paper bag in her muzzle.

“A jiffy huh?” Rainbow asked with mild chagrin.

Scootaloo balanced the bag on a hoof and spoke. “Took a while to find the exact one Apple Bloom wanted. Besides, I didn’t go inside solely for dog treats, Rainbow.”

Rainbow huffed and scoffed, anxious to get back to the skies. Her impatience was concerning the school-aged pony, who cast a worried dekko towards the weathermare.

“Is everything alright, Dash? You seem a bit fidgety.”

“Things are fine! I’m eager to play. You put the idea in my head for more fun and I’m slightly wired with anticipation.”

The filly heard the earnestness in RD’s tone and giggled with joy. Rainbow watched Scoots and tapped her hoof on the cobblestone impatiently.

“You got everything you need, Scoots? Can we go now?”

Scootaloo chuckled again and nodded her head. “Yes. I’m all set. We-”

The young pony was caught off-guard as Rainbow ran towards her, declining her head. When her head was parallel with Scootaloo’s chest, the rainbow-maned pegasus lurched her head and neck upwards. Notwithstanding the small yelp of shock from her number-one fan, Rainbow expertly spread her elongated wings to catch the filly. Scootaloo landed roughly, slightly perturbed from the ordeal. Luckily, the bag had not spilled its contents. It was in the same spot where Scootaloo was just standing.

Rainbow chuckled this time, concerned she had gone a bit too far.

“Rainbow Dash, while I’m happy at your excitement, maybe refrain from doing that a second time. Now I’m all dizzy. Mind giving me the bag?”

Dash offered a sincere apology and trotted gingerly towards it. Rainbow clenched the bag in her muzzle and turned her head. Scootaloo transferred the bag to her own muzzle. Once complete, Rainbow instructed Scootaloo to clutch tightly at her nape once more. The orange pegasus complied and the two soared in the air again.

As she flew, Rainbow grinned. The wind was whipping at her mane, rustling its strands all around. This was the element she enjoyed. From the altitude the two ponies were at, the billowy blowings and wispy wind were in full spirits and Rainbow surged with energy and exhilaration.

The journey was a quiet one. Rainbow was too giddy to play again to make much conversation. Scootaloo was still a tad delirious from the sudden jumpy motion her idol had given. The quick flight didn’t help restore her to normalcy.

After fifteen minutes of silence, the two arrived at Rainbow’s Cloudominium. The speedy pegasus glanced downwards and saw the earlier decor and items were gone from the impromptu party her friends attended. Her friends had also cleared out. Dash sighed in appreciation. She wasn’t ready to reveal to her best friends the activities she was doing with the filly. One day, but that wasn’t anytime soon.

She landed gently on the base of cirrus clouds that comprised the foundation of her floating home. As usual, Scootaloo marveled at it. The filly was feeling better now. Rainbow wasn’t sure what the excitement was. Clouds weren’t spectacular or amazing. She didn’t prod the filly about it and simply opened the door.