Accused | A Soarindash One-Shot

by raa_raa_reads

Rating: teen
Tags: Alternate Universe, Sad, Drama, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Soarin, Rainbow Dash, Romance, Wind Rider, Sex, Spitfire, Profanity, Wonderbolts
Length: 18586

Rainbow Dash is hurt, feeling betrayed by the Wonderbolts and by Soarin. Can Rainbow forgive him?

My own twist on the events of Rarity Investigates S5E15 MLP:FiM

Rainbow Dash is furious. Hurt. Betrayed.

After everything she's done for Equestria, the Wonderbolts, and Soarin, this is how she's repaid? Her anger at the Wonderbolts burns hot, but it's the agony from their Commander's betrayal that cuts the deepest.

Determined to set things right, Soarin Skies, spurred on by Wave Chill's uplifting words, sets off to seek forgiveness from the mare who has captured his heart since the Grand Galloping Gala.

Can Rainbow find it in her heart to forgive him?

Will his heartfelt apology mend their fractured friendship and perhaps lead to something more profound?

"Sad and sweet I guess?" — raa raa.

A Soarindash fanfic | raa_raa_reads // 18k word count!
There is no clop, SADLY :raritydespair: Just EXTREMELY detailed language and jokes! :scootangel: All Rights Reserves. Enjoy!

Published 2024-07-08 16:10:00 UTC
Last updated 2024-07-08 16:10:00 UTC

꒰ 🌪 ꒱ a c c u s e d

A soarindash one-shot ♥︎ ❜︎

Starring 💫 : ★ Miss Rainbow Dash & Mr Soarin Skies ★

!! ─ ꒱ My own twist on the events of Rarity Investigates! S5E15 MLP:FiM

⁎︎ ౨ৎ ❝︎ 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝❞︎ ∽ ︎

﹒──﹒──﹒──﹒﹒✿ ﹒﹒──﹒──﹒──﹒

"Thank you for believing in me, even when I was doubting you. I'm some friend, huh?"

Rarity smiled gently. "Actually, you're quite a good friend. You went to get Captain Spitfire, even though it meant you couldn't fly today."

The late afternoon sun filtered through the high windows, casting a golden glow that contrasted starkly with the heavy atmosphere in the room.

The silence was burdensome, punctuated only by the occasional creak of the old wooden floorboards and the distant sounds of Canterlot life outside. The muffled clip-clop of hooves on cobblestone and the faint, melodic chime of a nearby clock tower added to the ambient noise, providing a haunting reminder of the world continuing beyond these tense walls.

The Wonderbolts exchanged uneasy glances, their barely audible breathing and their wings rustling softly as they hovered added to the symphony of agitation. The usual energy and camaraderie were replaced by palpable tension, thick enough to cut through.

Spitfire loomed in the room, her gaze unwavering and incisive. Her expression was formidable, with every contour of her face etched in the gravity of the situation. The oppressive stillness in the air mirrored the intense seriousness emanating from her commanding presence.

Beside her, Soarin hovered quietly, his usually carefree demeanour replaced by a somber, contemplative look.

Rarity's praise for Rainbow Dash hung in the air, amplifying the guilt that gnawed at each Wonderbolt.

They had grown closer to her than any other Reservists within a few months, their Commander especially, yet they had been quick to point hooves, doubting her without hesitation.

Now, the weight of their collective misjudgment pressed heavily upon them.

Rainbow Dash stood silently, her eyes locked onto Rarity's, searching for solace in the familiar sapphire depths. She then glanced up at the Wonderbolts, whom she had idolised for years.

Embarrassment and betrayal had churned inside her, growing stronger over the past few hours—a bitter cocktail of emotions.

She had admired them, obsessed over them, only to be accused by them despite her unwavering dedication to the Academy and their lives since Twilight's arrival in Ponyville.

Her cerise eyes caught the gaze of a certain emerald-eyed stallion she had grown confusing, conflicting feelings for. Memories of his aggressive threats and harsh accusations surfaced, making her quickly turn back to Rarity, suppressing the tender feelings she secretly harboured for him at the back of her mind.

A bitter taste lingered as she struggled to contain her pain.

Betrayal.

Rainbow Dash sighed, raking a hoof through her rainbow-streaked mane. The weight of her disappointment was almost suffocating. "I'll get my chance one day," she said softly, though the conviction in her voice wavered.

Behind them, Fleetfoot shifted uncomfortably, biting her lips as her expression tightened with inner conflict. Her conscience nags at her as she grapples with the implications of Dash's decision.

Misty Fly, standing beside Fleetfoot, glanced at their hovering Co-Captain. His face was unreadable, but she knew the turmoil beneath.

All the Wonderbolts did.

They understood how profoundly Dash's feelings and well-being mattered to him, especially in light of the steadfast devotion she had shown him towards his own health and safety throughout their shared journey of a year and little over 2 months.

His admiration for the female pegasus was no clandestine affair—her prowess in flight certainly left him in awe.

Yet, it was her heart of gold and unyielding moral fortitude that truly ensnared his affection.

Her caring touch and unwavering support wove a tapestry of warmth around his soul, drawing him deeper into the embrace of her friendship.

His endless rants about her in the Wonderbolt Messhall, lockers, and showers only proved to his teammates the depth of his feelings for her, even if Soarin himself couldn't see it.

Misty then looked at their Captain, anxiety bubbling up at the thought of the repercussions and her wrath that awaited them at Wonderbolt Head-Quaters.

The golden light continued to filter through the high windows. The anticipation of the evening's aerial show loomed, just two hours away, but the usual excitement was dulled by the day's events.

The Wonderbolts' spirits were weighed down by shame, and Rainbow Dash's pain was a silent yet powerful presence among them.

"Or today," Spitfire began, capturing the attention of everyone in the room. "How'd you like to take Wind Rider's spot in the show?" She grinned, flying toward Wind Rider.

His eyes shot open in disbelief, hooves flailing in protest. "Uh, w-what? Y-you can't do this to me!" he exclaimed, his laughter strained. "I'm one of the greatest Wonderbolts there ever was! My records speak for themselves!"

A navy-haired stallion silently scoffed at this, his gaze fixating on the Wonderbolt legend with a mixture of frustration and resentment, realising that the sudden strain in his relationship—friendship really, whatever it was that he had with Dash—was partially caused by him.

Spitfire's stare turned flinty as she regarded the legendary Wonderbolt before her, waves of betrayal crashing against her.

Confronting the truth was agonising; her foalhood idol, the hero she revered, had callously endangered her life for his own gain.

Selfish.

"Not anymore," she spat, descending swiftly to face him, her wings flared in defiant determination.

Wind Rider's expression turned to panic.

"For framing Wonderbolt Reservist Rainbow Dash, and deliberately risking the life of an active Captain of the Wonderbolts, I, Captain Spitfire of the Wonderbolt, under the power of the E.U.P Guard, hereby strip you of your Wonderbolts status!" Spitfire forcefully tore the Wonderbolts' badge from his jacket, her voice cold and resolute as the room fell silent.

Rainbow could only gap, blinking.

Oh fuck.

Spitfire smirked, leaning back from Wind Rider's furious, flushed face with a glint of amusement in her eyes.

"But hold on," Rarity, ever the picture of composed elegance, interjected with her voice carrying a firm resolve. Her detective's hat cast a shadow over her face, but her eyes shone with determination and a sparkle of defiance against the injustice of the accusation against Rainbow.

She was determined to see the old stallion face the consequences of breaking her dear friend's heart.

And for ruining that stunning ivory scarf.

"One last thing, darlings!"

The door slammed open with a dramatic flourish, ushering in an aura of regality and refinement, accompanied by the sweet fragrance of flowers and the invigorating scent of the ocean breeze.

The Wonderbolts' eyes widened at the sight that greeted them.

"Princess Celestia!" Spitfire exclaimed, dropping into a bow as the rest of the Wonderbolts quickly followed suit.

Rainbow Dash and Rarity simply stood there, with Rainbow casting a curious glance at the two guards flanking their regal visitor.

Princess Celestia's serene countenance softened, a gentle smile gracing her features as she lifted a regal hoof with magnanimity. "Please, rise, my little ponies," her melodic voice resonated through the room, her wise gaze fixing upon Wind Rider. "I have come to address Rainbow Dash's predicament."

A shudder rippled through the ranks of the Wonderbolts, their faces drained of colour by the impending dread. Spitfire and Soarin exchanged a glance fraught with tension, causing their breaths to hitch in anticipation.

Spitfire smiled tightly.

Oh my fucking Celestia.

Her eyes twitched as she shot a piercing side glare at her Commander, silently cursing him for not handling the situation better in her absence.

In that crucial moment of realisation, it dawned on them all: Rainbow Dash, their esteemed top Reservist, held an unparalleled bond with the Princesses, a fact that had been grievously overlooked.

Now, it was clear that their failure to address the complex situation with the respect it deserved would cost them dearly.

It was what they assumed anyway.

Princess Celestia fixed her regal gaze squarely upon the esteemed Wonderbolt legend, her voice resounding with authority as she addressed him.

"Wind Rider," she declared firmly, her words echoing throughout the room. "You are hereby under arrest for your egregious transgressions: deliberately diverting my royal guards from their designated posts and disseminating false accusations against a citizen of Ponyville. These acts contravene the E.U.P Guardsmen, Ponity Risk, and Defamation Law—infractions that merit severe legal ramifications that will be dealt with by my sister."

Princess Luna? Wind Rider froze. What the fuck has that Rarity mare done?

With a solemn nod towards the guards stationed nearby, Wind Rider emitted a low growl, huffing as he was escorted away.

The weight of his offences cast a pall over the room, and the hush was punctuated by the realisation of the severity of his misdeeds.

Dishonesty.

Soarin released a shaky breath, his shoulders relaxing as they were not facing repercussions. Yet, as relief flooded him, a tender concern bloomed within his chest, seeing Rainbow Dash's disarrayed appearance—the tousled cascade of her mane, the furrowed lines etched across her brow, and the weariness embedded into her gaze, echoing the strain of the day's trials.

His lips found themselves caught between his teeth, a soft pang of longing stirring within him as he observed the rainbownette near the window, who was lost in the gentle sway of her contemplation.

I made her like this.

Princess Celestia acknowledged the two Element of Harmony bearers with a nod of appreciation. "The guards responsible have been dismissed from their duties," she informed them.

With a gentle smile bestowed upon Rainbow, her movements fluid and poised, she gracefully departed through the door, the echo of her metal-clad steps fading into the distance as she left with the guards and Wind Rider in tow.

"Good riddance," Rarity mumbled.

In the hush that followed, Soarin turned towards the mare, who had occupied his thoughts and dreams for countless nights and to whom he had been religiously sending letters to over the past few months since her admission to the Academy.

Her expression, a delicate dance of vulnerability and uncertainty, tugged at his heartstrings, igniting a fire within him that only heightened when she rubbed her right forehoof with the back of her left, a gesture that deepened his desire to grasp her shaking hooves in his own, pulling her close for a comforting hug.

Just to hear that raspy voice he had grown so fond of, shouting and cursing at him even if it was out of anger. An excuse to feel her warmth against him.

He fought against the urge to act on the overwhelming emotions that pulsed through his veins like a torrential downpour upon glancing at her pouted lips, reminding himself to be the gentlecolt he is.

Instead, he focused on the subtle details of her troubled expression, committing each line and curve to memory as if etching them into his soul.

Her mane, a cascade of vibrant hues that danced in the soft glow of Celestia's light, seemed to whisper secrets of its own, framing her face in a halo of otherworldly beauty. With each gentle movement, it brushed against her cheeks like a lover's caress, leaving a trail of warmth in its wake.

He yearned to be the one to sweep those strands aside, to revel in the softness of her fur and the intoxicating vanilla scent that clung to her like a second skin.

But he restricted himself every time he would run into her from indulging in such fantasies, for fear that they would take control over him whole and leave him adrift in a sea of longing and regret from her rejection.

Even in her dishevelled state, she was a vision of perfection, a beacon of light in a world fraught with darkness and despair.

Her eyes, though clouded with doubt, held a pink glow that rivalled the blush of dawn, drawing him in like a moth to a flame. The delicate curve of her lips and the elegance of her athletic form exuded both strength and grace, which only made her more enchanting.

It was those same luminous qualities that had first captivated him, and now, Rainbow Dash seemed to shine even brighter and more vibrant than ever.

Her time at the Academy had only polished her natural brilliance like a diamond, becoming ever more radiant with each passing day. It was as if she had been tenderly grooming and pampering herself over the last few months, allowing her true beauty to flourish.

His eyes lingered on the mare, captivated and unwilling to look away.

Celestia, she's so beautiful.

It was easy to see why Rainbow had so many admirers. Young fillies and colts looked up to her with wide-eyed awe, aspiring to be as courageous and noble as she was—a true protector of their homeland.

She embodied the spirit of heroism.

But for stallions—and mares—the admiration took on a different hue, yearning for the status of being with one of the prettiest and fastest mares in the land.

Yet, for Soarin, his feelings ran far deeper than mere admiration or desire. As he watched her, her eyes reflecting the colours of the radiating sun, he felt a surge of emotion that took his breath away.

She was more than just a symbol of beauty and speed.

She was the embodiment of everything he cherished and longed for. Her vibrant spirit and unwavering loyalty, her strength and grace, her fearless heart and tender soul—all of these qualities made her the mare of his dreams.

It was no secret between the Wonderbolts how lovesick she had made him feel. Her beauty was an enchanting melody that resonated deep within his soul, a radiant force that left him spellbound. It was the aura she radiated—a captivating blend of strength and elegance.

To him, her beauty was not just in her physical form but in her essence, her indomitable spirit, and the warmth that lay beneath her fierce exterior.

In her, he saw a masterpiece of nature, a vision of splendour that he could never tire of marvelling at, a living poetry that danced through his dreams.

Every moment spent near her only deepened his unexplainable attraction to her.

He had hurt the one mare who truly cared for him, who saw beyond the fame and uniform.

Where everypony else saw him as Soarin the Wonderbolt, she saw him as just Soarin—the pony beneath the facade.

Soarin approached the alluring, entrancing mare with tentative steps, his hoofbeats drawing the attention of every pony present, including Rainbow.

He knew the next few hours would be a challenge to get her talking to him again.

He felt utterly despicable for doubting her, and the thought of it made him want to retreat to his room, bury himself under the covers, and never emerge again.

Maybe throwing myself off a cliff would be easier than facing Dash again.

But he had to make it up to her somehow, someway—anything to preserve the intense friendship they shared.

Magenta orbs bore into his emerald ones with a bitter edge, clearly signalling her reluctance to engage in conversation.

He knew he had to approach the rift between them carefully, aware that his Dashie was impulsive and stubborn as hell.

Baby steps.

"So," Soarin softly spoke out, lifting his hoof towards his mare to hold her own, but quickly decided against it, retracting his hoof back. "Would you like to fly with us?"

Rainbow blankly stared at the pony. Her face was devoid of emotion, while her wings twitched with suppressed agitation.

Flying with the Wonderbolts had been her ultimate dream, and they all knew it. It was no secret how desperately she wanted to join their ranks.

Her talent surpassed many of theirs; she had accomplished extraordinary feats in Equestria's darkest hours, upheld commendable moral principles, and consistently shattered Wonderbolt Academy records.

The impossible Rainboom was her signature and her proof of excellence.

Rainbow Dash was everything the Wonderbolts sought in a member—far more talented than a good number of them.

They were acutely aware of this, yet opportunities had been scarce as there hadn't been an open position in years.

Her closest brush with her dream—performing with the Wonderbolts at an aerial show—had come through relentless hard work, securing her top position in the Reservists.

She was ready to step in for any member unable to fly.

And she was given that chance today.

But at the cost of her perception of the Wonderbolts she once idolised.

Had the ideals she once thought the Wonderbolts upheld morphed into something unrecognisable?

She had narrowly escaped expulsion from the Academy, her dreams nearly shattered by the very stallion she had grown a soft spot for, the one who had occupied her secret fantasies since their intimate dance with one another during the Canterlot Royal Wedding.

She wanted to refuse the offer, yet she sighed heavily, her gaze drifting momentarily to the ceiling, a cascade of rainbow strands falling around her like a delicate veil. With a furrowed brow and a slight pursing of her lips, she contemplated her limited options.

She understood the intricate dance of politics and the ruthless scrutiny of the media that preyed upon prestigious organisations like the Wonderbolts.

Refusal would undoubtedly fuel speculative headlines and cast them all in a bad light.

So, with a small, weak smile, she met the hopeful gaze of the pale-blue stallion.

"Count me in."

﹒──﹒──﹒──﹒﹒✿ ﹒﹒──﹒──﹒──﹒

The Royal Garden opening aerial show was a smashing success.

Rainbow had effortlessly executed all the Wonderbolt stunts with flawless precision, not that any pony doubted her abilities regardless.

She had finished the show with two simultaneous inverse displacement rolls alongside her superiors, showcasing her breathtaking skill and agility.

The crowd had erupted in deafening cheers that evening, their excitement reaching new heights as Equestria's beloved Element Bearer flew with the Wonderbolts.

There had been moments of internal doubt and extreme nervousness, though.

She was, after all, about to perform with the Wonderbolts in front of an exuberant audience.

She didn't want to make a mistake and further tarnish the fragile relationship she now had with the Wonderbolts.

But Fleetfoot, sensing her nerves, reassured her minutes before the start of the show that the crowd would adore her.

Fleet had hoped her kind words would help ease her worries, praying the rainbow-maned mare wouldn't stay too upset with the 'Bolts.

And, indubitably, Rainbow's stunning performance proved Fleetfoot right.

"Who's ready to get absolutely SMASHED?!"

Fleetfoot snapped out of her trance from reminiscing about their performance today, her glazed eyes focusing back on the mirror in front of her in the 'bolts large dressing room they were kindly given by Princess Celestia. The large, ornately framed mirror hung on one wall, reflecting the room's occupants and casting an almost spectral image back at them.

Luna's moon glowed through the room, its soft light clashing gently with the fluorescent bulbs that lit up the space. The sky outside was a canvas of twilight hues and crepuscular tones, dotted with twinkling stars, effortlessly serene and inviting.

The sun had just set, signalling the time for ponies to settle down for Luna's night.

However, the Wonderbolts were just getting started, ready for their customary afterparty following a successful show.

They were gearing up to make their way to Canterlot's finest bar they had booked out, where they would celebrate their success with laughter, drinks, and the bond that only came from flying together as a team.

The room was spacious and filled with the hum of post-show excitement as the air smelled faintly of sweat and victory.

The turquoise mare glanced up, her eyes lingering on a red-maned, sexy stallion. His eyes sparkled with excitement, and a wide, eager grin spread across his face, clearly thrilled for the night ahead.

She smiled, unable to help the flutter in her chest upon looking at him.

"Rapid, for the love of Celestia, we are NOT going to carry your knocked-out flank back to your room again." Fire Streak huffed, lounging against the sage couch situated on the side of the room, while his twin snorted next to him.

Fleetfoot let out a light laugh at her teammate pointing out Rapid Fire's predictable antics.

His rugged charm and carefree spirit had always irresistibly captivated her. Tonight, the anticipation of spending time with a tipsy Rapid made her heart race a bit.

Surprise suddenly popped up between the twins, causing the two stallions' macho bravado to falter, letting out a girly high-pitched squeal that pierced the air like startled songbirds, jolting to the edge of the couch at the unexpected appearance of the bubbly yellow mare.

Spitfire's raised eyebrow spoke volume, silently questioning her teammates' claims of masculinity. Laughter erupted like a sudden summer storm, shaking the walls with its thunderous force.

Some of the 'bolts doubled over, their laughter filling the room with unrestrained joy. Their hooves pounded against the floor as they struggled to catch their breath between laughs. Meanwhile, others wore strained smiles, their cheeks flushed with suppressed amusement as they fought to stifle their giggles.

A few exchanged knowing glances, their eyes sparkling with shared merriment, while others simply leaned back in their seats, their chests heaving with silent laughter.

Wave Chill merely chuckled lightly, walking next to the unamused Captain who sighed in disappointment.

"Surprise, what the fuc—"

"AHH, can you guys wait?!" The bouncy, yellow-maned mare squealed, practically vibrating with excitement, cutting off Lightning Streak. "Because I sure can't WAIT TO PAR-TAY with my BESTIES!" She grinned, wrapping her forelegs around the twins' necks and enveloping them tightly in excitement, her embrace nearly squeezing the breath out of them.

Spitfire rolled her eyes at her teammates.

Everypony was exhilarated for tonight, the day's earlier events entirely forgotten in the surge of excitement.

Her impassive, fiery gaze drifted to a close friend nestled in the corner with a melancholic expression, his cold pie still untouched.

His shoulders slumped forward. With a heavy sigh, he slowly sank to the floor, his movements lacking their usual energy and purpose. His hooves, once so sure and steady, now lay limply at his sides, idly tracing patterns on the floor as if searching for answers.

Well, everypony but one, she thought.

Wave Chill noticed his Captain's abrupt, troubled expression and followed her gaze. His mouth tightened into a frown upon seeing the normally cheerful stallion uncharacteristically withdrawn.

Seeing Spitfire's tense demeanour, Wave—like any teammate would obviously do—felt compelled to ease her burden, acutely aware of the gruelling day she had endured.

Not to mention when Soarin asserted his authority against Rainbow, compelled to employ stringent language regardless of the mare being a respected ally, the resulting tension weighed heavily on Spitfire.

With her Commander shrouded in a sombre atmosphere and a fragile bond with her favourite Reservist, the situation was far from ideal for Spitfire's peace of mind.

"Commander Soarin?" Wave called out, hoping to alleviate some of Spitfire's stress.

The rest of the Wonderbolts were deep in their own conversations to notice the pensive navy-haired stallion in the corner, all poking fun at the twins, with Surprise blabbing on about something about drinking 69 pints of cider.

Soarin barely looked up upon hearing his name; his eyes, normally bright with vigour, were now dim and distant, their depths swirling with the agitation of emotions. His ears hung low, mirroring the weight on his heart, while his downturned lips betrayed the sorrow that consumed him.

Spitfire bit the inside of her cheeks, inching closer to Wave Chill until the tips of their hooves touched. The sudden contact sent an unfamiliar sensation coursing through both of them, yet they chose to ignore the odd feeling.

In a hushed tone, she whispered, "He's been like this since the show ended." Pausing, she quickly glanced back at the despondent stallion before her gaze returned to Wave. "I know the two are close, but I didn't expect him to be this affected by Dash."

Wave Chill gave a reassuring nod. "Let me handle it, Captain. You've got enough on your plate tonight."

Spitfire hesitated, her eyes locking onto Wave's deep ocean gaze. They stared at one another intensely, a silent exchange unfolding between them.

At that moment, the ambient sounds of Lightning's flirtatious banter with the mares and Surprise's usual hyper-excitement faded away, leaving just the two of them with an unspoken connection.

The depth of their gaze revealed a mix of concern, understanding, and something else that neither could quite identify. In that timeless exchange, they found solace in each other's silent presence, lost in the intensity of the moment.

Finally, Spitfire nodded, feeling a wave of gratitude for his unwavering support and the quiet reassurance she found in his eyes.

Regaining her composure, she redirected her attention to the rest of the team, preparing to remind them to maintain the esteemed reputation of the Wonderbolts at the bar.

In other words, don't go too fucking crazy with the drinks.

Meanwhile, Wave, with a gentle yet firm demeanour, approached his long-time friend.

"Clipper, what's going on, buddy?" Wave asked, sitting down next to him. "You haven't touched your pie, and that's not like you."

Soarin remained quiet, ignoring his friend's steady gaze boring into him. His glazed emerald eyes fixed on the untouched pie.

He felt like absolute shit.

How could he not?

It was already bad enough when he yelled at the one pony he was always gentle with, seeing the heartbreak etched across her sweet face and how his words silenced her vibrant spirit—a stark contrast to her usual vivacity and confidence.

But it didn't end there.

Then came the crushing realisation: the one mare who had seen him beyond the Wonderbolt persona, with whom he had experienced intimate moments of vulnerability and deep connections, now distanced herself from him. The once-familiar closeness now replaced by an intentional avoidance, a palpable absence of the warmth they once shared.

Alongside the subsequent refusal to engage with him, her subtle signs of hurt left an indelible mark on Soarin's conscience: a fleeting glance filled with disappointment, a forced smile that didn't quite reach her enchanting eyes, and a noticeable shift in demeanour whenever he was near.

The gravity of his actions hit Soarin hard, leaving him adrift in a sea of regret and self-loathing.

How could he have caused such pain to the breathtaking mare he cared about so deeply?

He was left grappling with the aftermath, consumed by a sense of profound sadness and remorse for his actions. He had betrayed the trust of someone he held dear, and the weight of that betrayal was a heavy burden to bear.

Soarin sighed, oblivious to the annoyed stallion in front of him.

How could he have caused such pain to the prismatic mare, whose friendship always enveloped him like the warm embrace of sunlight, where it felt as though his heart were nestled within the tender caress of fluffy clouds?

How could he have caused such pain to the mare who seemingly cared about him so deeply?

"Soarin!"

Soarin froze for a moment at his teammate's outburst, then slowly relaxed, meeting Wave's worried eyes. "Sorry, Wave, it's just... " He reclined on the floor, the cold surface meeting his warm back as his hooves spread out in a star-like formation. His eyes wandered aimlessly, ensnared by the captivating dance of light in the chandelier above.

"I ruined everything between us." Every breath he took seemed laboured, as if each inhalation carried the weight of his mistakes.

Soarin's gaze flickered away from Wave Chill's probing eyes as he continued to unravel the tangled web of emotions inside him.

"I was just... really worried about Spitfire," he confessed, his voice tinged with unease. "Spitty and I are like this." He used his right wing to cross 2 feathers between one another. "When I heard it was Rainbow, everything seemed crystal clear in my head. Dash, she's desperate to be among the Wonderbolts. I know what she's like sometimes. Her mind can get pretty wrapped up in her own ego and what she wants."

His frustration boiled over, the memory of his anger still fresh in his mind. "I was upset, beyond pissed at her. But now, looking back..." He trailed off, uncertainty clouding his thoughts.

Wave Chill leaned in, his brow furrowing. "But...?"

Soarin took a deep breath. "But she wouldn't sabotage somepony for her own gain like that," he asserted, his voice firm as he shook his head. "That's not her. That's not the Rainbow Equestria knows. That's not the Rainbow I know. She's competitive, yes, but she plays fair. She wouldn't betray somepony for her own personal gain, especially not her superior."

Wave snorted, "Yeah, well, she proved that Rainbow Falls," he pointed out, before adding, "Out of all the Elements, she's the Element of Loyalty too."

Soarin's wings tensed as he glared at Wave. "Not helping," he muttered. Wave's expression softened, quickly offering him an apologetic look before raising a hoof to continue.

Soarin sighed deeply, rubbing the back of his neck as his wings drooped to his sides in a display of defeat. "I let my anger get the best of me," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

His eyes met Wave Chill.

"And now... now I just wanna ram my whole body in front of a train and then throw myself into a volcano 'cause I'm a complete fucking idiot."

Wave narrowed his oceanic eyes at Soarin, his expression suddenly turning into a blend of stoicism and reassurance. "Soarin, as Commander, it is your responsibility to uphold the standards of the Wonderbolts and address any inappropriate misconduct from the Reservists. What you said to Rainbow Dash was not out of line. You acted within your authority, enforcing the necessary discipline expected of your role."

He took a moment to choose his next words with careful consideration. "It's crucial to remember that maintaining order and integrity within the team sometimes requires making difficult decisions and delivering hard truths."

Wave paused, ensuring his words sank in before continuing. "Your duty is to lead and protect the team's reputation, and in doing so, you sometimes have to take actions that may not be well-received. You mustn't feel guilty for doing what was required of you as a Commander. Thankfully, Rainbow Dash was innocent, but your intervention was about addressing potential issues. Your actions were justified, and feeling bad about them only undermines the authority placed in you as a leader."

Soarin remained silent, a little annoyed by Wave's critique towards his authority towards the end, but he knew it was necessary. It was what he needed to hear.

Wave's words echoed in his mind, reverberating as he pondered their implications and his role as Commander.

Soarin had always been softer to ponies than many other Commanders before him—something Spitfire frequently criticised.

If it weren't for his unparalleled endurance, his monster-like strength, and his uncanny ability to devise strategic plans under extreme military conditions, he likely wouldn't hold the position.

Conflict churned within him. Wave was right: as Commander, he had to uphold discipline and address any inappropriate actions, even if it meant being harsh.

Yet, the nagging doubt lingered—could he have handled the situation with Rainbow Dash differently? Could he have approached it with more understanding and empathy?

Could he have realised sooner that the situation imposed on Rainbow was completely out of character for someone as sweet as her?

He sighed deeply, the weight of his thoughts pressing down on him. He knew he had to balance authority with compassion, a line he often struggled to walk. The memory of Rainbow Dash's hurt expression haunted him, a stark reminder of the impact his behaviour could have.

Wave's stoic yet comforting demeanour had been a reminder of the responsibilities he bore, but it also highlighted the complexities of leadership.

"You're right, Wave. But honestly, I don't think it was my words that hurt her. She's read the Academy handbook; she knows the rules and consequences. I think it was... " He trailed off, thinking about today's events.

"I think it was the way I acted," he uttered quietly, pushing himself upright to sit back up, his movements deliberate as he shifted his weight. "It's been many moons since I raised my voice in such a manner to anypony, and she probably didn't expect it coming from me out of all ponies."

Soarin glanced at the swirling clouds of joyful symphonies that enveloped his teammates in the middle of the room, their laughter echoing like distant thunder.

"I should have handled it differently. Instead of relying solely on one pony's accusation, I should have launched an official investigation. It was her words against Wind Riders—the Element of Loyalty against the Wonderbolt Legend. I could have discussed the matter privately with her rather than reprimanding her publicly. Gathering more evidence before making a judgment would have been wiser." Soarin turned back to Wave, his emerald orbs locking onto the deep azure depths of Wave's gaze.

"My actions must have felt like betrayal to her, especially when I backed her into the corner so aggressively. I failed to consider all angles before making a judgment, and that's what really hurt her."

Wave Chill smiled contently, observing his Commander owning up to his wrongful mistakes while also acknowledging the necessity of his rightful actions.

Accepting one's faults was a struggle many Wonderbolts faced, their pride often hindering their ability to admit wrongdoing, something Wave knew Soarin would have no problem with regardless.

The dark blue stallion placed a comforting hoof on his best friend's shoulder, his voice now softer. "We all make mistakes, Soarin. What matters is what you do to make it right."

Spitfire glanced over, watching the inaudible interaction with a mix of relief and curiosity. She trusted Wave to handle the situation, but seeing her best friend since flight-school this upset was hard for her.

Wave continued, his voice steady and encouraging. "Look, you don't have to come to the Hoofbeat Lounge to celebrate with us. Why don't you ease your troubles from the source?" He smiled, looking at the puzzled expression on Soarin's face as he tried to grasp Wave's suggestion.

"Talk to her; it might help clear the air sooner rather than later. It'll save you both unnecessary pain down the line, and if you need to talk," he rose from the floor, gesturing with a nod towards their teammates, "You know where to find us."

In the quiet pause that followed, Soarin wrestled with his thoughts like a solitary voyager navigating turbulent waters.

She'll likely buck me out of her room.

No, scratch that. She won't even consider letting me step hoof inside. She'll likely slam the door shut right in my pathetic face.

She'll probably unleash a fucking torrent of terrifying words on me, ones that could only come from the depths of Tartarus itself, sweet Celestia.

He shivered.

But I'm prepared for it, Soarin thought.

The sooner I set things right, the sooner we can mend our friendship.

Soarin nodded, acknowledging Wave's support, his smile breaking through the clouds of uncertainty. "Thanks, Wave. Maybe I will."

Soarin rose from the wooden floor, deftly maneuvering the untouched apple pie with his wings to rest on the nearby table. With a fleeting glance back at Wave Chill, he offered a slight yet appreciative smile.

Without a word, he strode out of the room, leaving the creaking door slightly ajar in his wake, the soft click of the latch echoed faintly in the air, a gentle signal lingering behind as a reminder of the presence that had just departed.

Wave returned to Spitfire's side, giving her a reassuring smile. "He'll be okay, Captain. Just needs some time to process things."

Spitfire nodded, a subtle easing of tension evident in her eyes as she met his. "Thank you, Lieutenant." Her words carried a weight of gratitude as she pivoted back towards the team.

Spitfire's lips moved in a quiet utterance, her words barely audible above the ambient noise of the room. "Don't know what I'd do without somepony like you."

Wave Chill's ears caught the faint murmur, his cheeks gradually tinting with a pink hue. He swiftly cleared his throat, redirecting his attention to the other members of the team.

"Of course, Captain."

With that, the two returned to the huddled team. The room still buzzed with excitement, though a small cloud of concern lingered over Spitfire. She knew they had a great show and an even better night ahead, but part of her mind remained with Soarin, hoping he'd find the peace he needed.

Spitfire's hardened gaze pierced through the room, her stature commanding respect as she stood at the centre of attention. The team, huddled closely together, awaited her next words with bated breath.

Fleetfoot, quickly glancing at the open door, turned to her Captain as she rejoined them.

"You think Soar will be alright?"

Spitfire's response was measured, her voice carrying a steely resolve as she addressed her team. "He'll be fine for today, Fleet," she affirmed, her gaze sweeping over the assembled group. Then, with a stern glare, she added, "Because tomorrow, none of you will be."

The weight of her words hung heavy in the air, causing the Wonderbolts' faces to pale. Fleetfoot let out a nervous chuckle, her ears flattening but her laughter quickly died as Spitfire's gaze fell upon her. She quickly backed away, hiding behind High Winds only for the mare to narrow her eyes at her turquoise teammate, stepping aside and leaving Fleetfoot exposed.

Misty Fly, visibly trembling, approached their Captain cautiously, her wings quivering with anxiety as sweat trickled down her brow.

Fucking fuckity fuck fuck. Fleetfoot panicked, staring at Misty who looked like she would rather kill herself than be in Spitfire's beeline.

"Captain, we weren't thinking straight when we—"

"When you all accused my best flier in the Academy," Spitfire hissed, her voice dangerously low. "You targeted the pony, who is the REASON we're all still standing here today. Breathing!"

She stepped forward, her eyes blazing with fury. "Rainbow Dash has the closest relationship with Princess Twilight Sparkle and significant ties to every Princess. She works closely with leaders of different species from various nations and holds more influence than the Wonderbolts could ever dream of! She can easily leverage her connections to control the press and, in turn, ruin the Wonderbolts' reputation with a single bloody request, given the amount of fucking bullshit she's fucking seen from us! She could defund this entire fucking compound without breaking a fucking sweat!"

Spitfire's voice rose to a furious scream, her breath coming in heavy pants as stress lines engraved themselves across her face.

The rest of the Wonderbolts shrank back, eyes wide with terror. Fleetfoot's legs wobbled as she took a step behind High Winds once again, who stood frozen in place. Misty Fly's ears flattened against her head, her gaze darting nervously to the floor, unable to meet Spitfire's fiery eyes.

Wave stood silently beside his Captain, his tail swishing anxiously behind him. The reality of the Wonderbolts' precarious position hit him hard, only just realising the type of mare they were dealing with.

From a professional standpoint, I can see why Commander was losing his shit now.

Shaking the thought away, Wave took a deep breath and looked at Spitfire. "Captain," he spoke out firmly.

Spitfire snapped her head towards his direction, her eyes blazing with anger and frustration. But as her gaze fell upon the stallion, her scowl vanished, though the irritation and her hardened expression remained.

Wave's eyes held hers, trying to convey reassurance. "We'll be okay," he said softly, his voice filled with quiet conviction.

Spitfire's steely gaze wavered just a fraction, staring at him for a moment before grumbling, swiftly turning back to face the rest.

Silence engulfed them all, only to be broken seconds later by the subtle exhale that escaped Spitfire's lips. A slight upward curve appeared at the corner of her mouth.

"Tomorrow," she muttered. Then, unexpectedly, a very small smirk tugged at her lips. "But let's not ruin the mood. Tonight, let's get absolutely fucking smashed."

At that, smiles suddenly broke out on everypony's faces, quickly gave way to stifled giggles, the kind that bubbled up uncontrollably, and within moments, the room erupted into loud, infectious laughter echoing through the room.

Rapid Fire stuck his tongue out at Fire Streak, a playful jab in response to his earlier comment.

Lightning Streak seized the opportunity after Spitfire's comment, wiggling his brows mischievously. "I know Spitty here is gonna be once Wave is done with her."

Wave's wings shot up, rigid as his eyes widened. His mouth gaped open, and a deep crimson flush spread across his dark blue face. Spitfire shot Lightning an uncomfortable glare, ignoring the collective 'ooohh's from the background, though a faint red tint crept onto her cheeks, almost going unnoticed.

"Lightning, that's 300 laps tomorrow! and you'll be cleaning the entire compound for the next two weeks," she hissed, to which the stallion let out a loud whine.

Everypony ended up wheezing harder, the tense atmosphere from earlier melting away immediately, replaced by a sense of lightheartedness.

Amidst the banter, Spitfire couldn't help but smile at the sight of her team enjoying themselves. The bond they shared was strong, and with Wave Chill standing next to her, his presence was a comforting reminder that she wasn't alone in her responsibilities.

﹒──﹒──﹒──﹒﹒✿ ﹒﹒──﹒──﹒──﹒

Under Luna's celestial canopy, Canterlot basked in a serene and mystical aura. The stars twinkled like scattered diamonds above the majestic spires of Canterlot Castle, their gentle radiance caressing the towering structures with an otherworldly glow. The rooftops, adorned with golden peaks, shimmered in the moonlight, casting reflections upon the cobbled pathways below.

As Luna's night unfurled its velvet curtain, the bustling rhythm of Canterlot's streets gradually slowed, yielding to the tranquil hush of twilight.

Stores folded their awnings, their shutters closing like heavy eyelids, while the distant hum of late-night eateries and opulent lounges whispered promises of nocturnal delights.

Amidst this nocturnal symphony, a lone figure stood by the window of the castle's western wing, her silhouette outlined against the celestial tapestry above.

Bathed in the soft luminescence of Luna's radiance, she exuded an air of quiet contemplation, her features veiled in the subtle interplay of light and shadow. Each line of her form seemed to blend seamlessly with the tranquil surrounding, as if she were a part of the night itself.

The events of the day had taken a toll on her, leaving her drained and emotionally exhausted. It was only seven in the evening, but the weight of the day felt insurmountable.

She needed rest after running all over Canterlot to prove her innocence, but the gruelling Wonderbolts aerial show had taken the cake.

Did she feel awesome after that?

Fuck YEAH!

But there was no doubt that the Wonderbolt acrobatics and maneuvers were still difficult, especially for one not yet accustomed to Wonderbolt training.

Her fluffy bed called to her, its luxurious mattress exclusive to the Royal Castle promising comfort and respite. And as much as she longed to close her exhausted eyes and let Luna's dreams take over, to distract her from the terrible events that had snatched her heart and squeezed it right in front of her, those same events forced her to stay awake, running through her mind constantly.

The nervous, shaky feeling of doubt gnawed at her.

Her perception of the Wonderbolts felt fragile, like a delicate glass sculpture that could shatter at any moment.

It was as if her dreams and initial admiration were the only things holding her positive view of the Wonderbolts together. Without that, her cherished dreams of the team would crumble to dust.

This wasn't the first time the Wonderbolts had led her to question her feelings about them. Each previous incident she had pushed to the back of her mind, convincing herself that everypony, including herself, had flaws and would fuck up too.

After all, she wasn't perfect either. She had made shitty decisions, let her ego get the best of her, and hadn't always considered others' feelings. She told herself that the Wonderbolts' mistakes were just part of being imperfect, just part of life.

Her mind flashed back to that dreadful day when Spitfire had been so careless with the recruits, allowing Lightning Dust to unleash an uncontrollable tornado that nearly tore her friends to shreds.

The memory of Lightning being rewarded for her reckless and rude behaviour towards the other recruits made her feel uneasy.

Unkindness.

But...

Since boot camp, Dash had been given enough time to reflect back, and even go as far as to question if her own behaviour was truly as acceptable as she once believed or if she had been just as culpable in their questionable decisions as Lighting was.

But that's a story for another day.

Her breathing hitched, a shudder running through her. If things had gone wrong that day, the Element of Harmony bearers wouldn't exist, and Equestria would have been plunged into chaos a little under a year ago.

The image of Spitfire casually signing autographs in her office surfaced, and she couldn't help but scoff.

If Spitfire had properly overseen the recruits, or at least assigned another Wonderbolt to do the job, her friends wouldn't have been in such deadly peril.

The Captain of the Wonderbolts was selfish.

As Rainbow pondered their conduct, it became evident that the Wonderbolts fell short of the values she and her friends embraced—generosity, honesty, kindness, and loyalty. Their actions stood as a stark contradiction to the principles of friendship, integrity, and compassion that she held in high regard.

Bitches.

She chuckled bitterly, her mind drifting to the incident at Rainbow Falls where these traits were on full display.

They had been dishonest, lying about their teammate's health to both Rainbow and the others.

They had selfishly used Rainbow, exploiting her skills just to secure a faster flier.

They had been disloyal to their own teammate, casting him aside without a second thought.

Rainbow paused, her throat suddenly tightening.

Their teammate.

Her magenta eyes grew glassy, shutting her eyes in pain. She gulped, trying to moisten the dryness in her throat as she pictured a navy-haired stallion with those stupid, beautiful emerald eyes.

Soarin.

Rainbow hugged herself lightly, the cool night air brushing against her fur. Her gaze drifted to the twinkling sky for a moment before her mind wandered to her cherished memories with the stallion.

She thought about their time together at Rainbow Falls vividly, where Soarin had ended up injured and she had faked her own.

In the sterile hospital room, they had spent nearly an hour sharing their hobbies, dreams, and lives. His eyes would light up with excitement every time he spoke about flying, his enthusiasm making Rainbow feel a warmth in her heart.

She didn't want to admit it, but he's so adorable when he spoke about something he loved.

Despite his minor injury, he had made the effort to make her laugh. Soarin had a way of making her feel truly seen. His eyes sparkled with genuine excitement whenever she recounted her daring adventures—outmaneuvering dragons and rescuing ponies in distress.

He hung onto every word with rapt attention, his enthusiasm matching her own. His laughter, a rich and warm sound, would fill the room whenever she recounted the funnier moments of her escapades.

Rainbow often worried that her stories came off as boastful and egotistical. Even her closest friends sometimes grew tired of her constant tales of greatness, rolling their eyes and shutting her down.

But with Soarin, it was different. He was never tired of her stories; instead, he encouraged her. His reaction wasn't just polite listening; it was genuine fascination and admiration, making her feel appreciated in a way she rarely experienced.

Thinking of him now, under Luna's tranquil night, filled her with a soft, fluttery feeling. The memories of their time together were like a warm, gentle hug.

In those moments, it touched her heart deeply, knowing that someone finally appreciated her for who she was without any reservations. Soarin's validation was unlike anything she had ever experienced. His genuine interest made her feel special, cherished, and understood in a way that even her closest friends sometimes failed to do.

This newfound feeling of being so wanted and so validated stirred something deep within her, and soon her heart was consumed by an all-encompassing obsession, compelling an insatiable need to be near him every moment. She felt an irresistible pull towards Soarin, his presence filling her with contentment and another strange feeling she had never known before.

This wasn't the first time he had made her feel this way. Her thoughts quickly drifted to the Canterlot Royal Wedding a little under a year ago, a small smile forming on her blue face.

Amidst the celebration of the newlywed couple, Soarin had approached her with a shy smile and a gentle request to dance.

The memory of his soft, encouraging smile as he took her hoof and led her onto the dance floor made her heart tingle. His soft laughter resonated with her, and the joy in his emerald eyes, as they twirled together under the starlit sky, made her feel lost in their own world. His strong wings guided her effortlessly; his touch gentle yet firm, his presence was a comforting anchor. She had laid her head against his muscular chest that magical night, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat and feeling a sense of peace she rarely found elsewhere.

Her cheeks flushed at the memory of how sappy and intimate she had been with somepony she wasn't that familiar with at the time.

Dammit, Rainbow, you're such an embarrassment.

Yet, those moments with Soarin felt right. The joy and comfort they found in each other's company had been a light in the midst of her turbulent life as an Elemental Bearer.

Every shared laugh, every gentle touch, every glance filled with unspoken understanding had woven a tapestry of warmth and affection between them.

Rainbow sighed again for what seemed like the umpteenth time, her body sagging with physical and emotional exhaustion.

Despite everything, the memories of Soarin brought a small, bittersweet smile to her face. It was a tender, sweet sensation, one that made her feel light and free, as if she could soar higher than ever before.

"Why does it hurt?" She whispered, gently closing her eyes again.

Stallions are such dickh-

A soft knock reverberated through the room, snapping Rainbow out of her justifiable thoughts. She glared at the wooden oak door, confusion and irritation flickering in her eyes.

Rarity was out for tea with another one of her potential clients, or whatever she had said, Rainbow wasn't paying attention.

Who the fuck is knocking this fucking late?

With a huff, Rainbow's blue hooves clattered against the tiled floor of the Castle room as she stormed towards the door. Her nostrils flared with each impatient breath, and her ears were pinned back against her head in annoyance. She reached for the doorknob, twisting it aggressively, and flung the door halfway open, only to be met with a pair of emerald eyes piercing into her soul.

Her heart fluttered, her pulse quickening at the sudden appearance of the handsome stallion before her. Despite the rush of emotion, she quickly narrowed her eyes into slits, her lips curling into a sneer. She scoffed loudly, trying to slam the door in his face with a force that matched her anger.

You dare interrupt my mandatory I-hate-colts rant?!

Noticing Rainbow's attempt to shut the door and sensing her unwelcoming attitude, Soarin panicked. "Rainbow, w-wait!" he stammered, reaching out a hoof and gently pressing against the closing door. His expression was a mix of desperation mingled with determination as he effortlessly pushed it open.

Rainbow staggered backward from the sudden force, her magenta eyes widening momentarily in surprise at his strength. She quickly recovered, her face contorting into a furious scowl. Her wings flared out in agitation, feathers bristling as she regained her balance, glaring daggers at him. "Stupid colts with stupid strength," she grumbled under her breath.

"Dash-"

"What the fuck do you want, Soarin?" She spat out his name like poison, each syllable laced with animosity as if her obsession with him, which had consumed her thoughts only moments ago, had vanished into thin air. Every muscle in her body was tensed and coiled like a spring, ready to snap, daring him to utter even a single word.

Soarin winced, finally receiving the impact of her pent-up blows. He'd be lying if he said that didn't hurt coming from her.

"Dash, listen to me-"

"NO!" she shouted, cutting through the air as she fluttered up, hovering close to his face to meet him eye-to-eye. Her hooves found their place on her hips as she sized him up, her lips forming a determined pout. "You listen to ME!" With deliberate force, she jabbed the tip of her right hoof against his rock-hard chest, ignoring the fuzzy tingles that shot through her.

Oh, fuck me.

He looked at her deadpan, his mouth morphing into a flat, straight line, knowing exactly what his mare was going to unleash on him.

"You shitty ass, troll-lookin', cunting ass, inflated ass, airhead bitching ass lookin' self, who can't grasp and fucking understand ANYTHING 'cause your cunting ass self is so fucking blind and unaware of every little shit that happens in front of you, must have been DROPPED as a fucking colt 200 feet from Cloudsdale with how demolished your funny lookin' ass prances around every time you wear that stupidly unaware ass smile of yours! Hell, the oblivious ass slut in you must have landed on your tiny ass fucking balls—"

"My balls are massive, thank you very much," Soarin muttered.

"—that knocked the stallionhood right out of that tiny brain of yours if you can't fucking see how much of a fucking BITCH you were to a MARE who has constantly proved to your league and shown you how fucking amazing I am!"

Soarin continued to stare blankly at his fiery-tempered friend, patiently awaiting the conclusion of her usual outbursts, which typically resounded with a lot of screaming.

Celestia, help me.

"I have never felt so fucking PISSED in my whole entire FUCKING life that—Luna help YOU—I'm three breaths away from shoving a Threstral's halberd right up that clenched up ass of yours that you'll need Princess Celestia hooves shoved down your fucking throat to swoop the spear right out that stupid fucking mouth of yours before I throw your pathetic ass into Lord Ember's volcanos till you've erupted right back out and land your dick on a porcupine!" Her words rang out, punctuated by the strain in her voice as she struggled to draw breath. Her eyes widened to their limits, and her silky fur chest rose and fell with each laboured breath, the effort of her angry outburst evident in the flush creeping up her cheeks.

Soarin's eyes expanded like saucers as his face contorted with a cringe, frantically contemplating whether her threats were real or not.

She couldn't really be serious about letting my crown jewels land on a porcupine... right..?

With a final, exasperated huff, she let her hooves fall heavily back to the ground, her left hoof instinctively finding its place on her chest as she continued to pant.

The stallion stared at the mare, his head tilting slightly to the left as his gaze flickered down to her heaving chest, rising and falling with each breath. His eyes traced the subtle movements before returning to meet her flushed face, a hint of red tinged at the corners of her cheeks. As his gaze lingered, he found himself drawn to her lips, her audible pants escaping them.

A sudden, sultry thought of Rainbow's state flickered across his mind, igniting a surge of electricity near his lower abdomen. His eyes widened momentarily as he felt the unexpected sensation, prompting him to swiftly shake the thought away, attempting to compose himself.

The mare of your life is literally going to strangle you, and this is all you can think of?

He subtly shook his head and placed a hoof at the door's threshold, cautiously stepping inside. Each footfall echoed softly in the moonlit room, casting elongated shadows across the floor.

Dash shot a quick glance right back up at him, only to notice his approach immediately. Her breath caught in a soft gasp in surprise as she instinctively stepped backward with each cautious advance he made.

Memories of him dangerously cornering her against the curtain just hours ago resurfaced, causing an unwanted whimper to escape her lips.

The sound stabbed Soarin in the heart, but he pressed forward until the back of Rainbow's hoof brushed against the bed frame, halting her retreat.

He towered over her, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight that illuminated his face, casting a gentle radiance upon his chiselled pale-blue jawline and sparkling green eyes. His impressively large wings folded against his muscular frame, standing out in Luna's light.

"Dashie," he whispered, his breath mingling with the cool night air, a hint of mint brushed against her muzzle.

It was then that she realised their lips were merely a hoof apart.

As she parted her lips slightly, her features danced with the ethereal glow of the moonlight. The delicate curves of Rainbow's face were accentuated by the soft illumination, her mane shimmering like a cascade of liquid silver under the moon's gentle caress. The corners of her cerise eyes glistened faintly, reflecting the soft luminescence that surrounded her, while her lashes cast delicate shadows on her cheeks.

His glowing eyes dipped down on her lips, their soft curve an invitation that he couldn't resist. For a moment, he was lost in the mesmerising sight before him, captivated by the ethereal presence of the mare he dreamed to call his.

He couldn't help it.

A mare like her deserves to know.

"You're so beautiful," he breathed, his voice a tender caress in the moonlit room.

He no longer cared about the consequences. Their friendship was already on shaky ground, but he couldn't hold back any longer. She needed to know how much she meant to him, how deeply she had touched his heart.

He just wanted her back.

Rainbow Dash stared at him in stunned silence, her cheeks flushing a rosy hue beneath the moon's gentle glow. Her eyebrows lifted in silent question, her right ear twitching as if to confirm that she had heard him correctly.

But Soarin paid no mind to her flustered state. With a gentle yet determined touch, he reached for her right hoof, clasping it in his own. His touch conveyed a myriad of emotions—sadness, guilt, but above all, love.

"I'm so sorry for everything, Rainbow Dash," he murmured, his eyes locking onto hers with a depth that mirrored the moonlit sky. His voice, barely above a whisper, mingled with the soft rustle of curtains in the moonlit breeze. Each word carried the weight of his remorse and the sincerity of his intentions, a vow to mend their fractured bond.

Rainbow had been staring down at their clasped hooves, her gaze meeting his after a moment before she shook her head slightly. Squeezing her eyes shut, she exhaled heavily, a mixture of frustrating emotions swirling within her. She released her grip on his hoof, pulling her own away slightly.

"Soarin," she said, her voice soft yet shaky.

He perked his ears at her words, his eyes pleading silently as he gazed into hers, searching for some sign of forgiveness.

Rainbow Dash took a deep breath, her ears flopped towards the ground. "I saved your life, twice," she began, her voice trembling. "You could have lost your job. You could have been grounded. Those two moments could have been the last time you saw your friends, your teammates, your family." Her voice cracked.

"Forget the whole Elemental Defenders saving everypony's ass. You're here and you're healthy because I," she pointed a hoof to herself, "pushed myself the hardest to save you." She then placed her hooves gently on his chest, her touch firm. "I saved your precious pie too, Soarin. I know how much that meant to you that day."

Soarin blinked, taken aback by Rainbow's solemn gaze as he looked at the mare, who had risked so much for him.

He swallowed hard, his throat tight, as he tried to find the right words to convey his own turmoil, his own realisation of how much he had taken her for granted.

Disappointment was etched on her features. "I've always shown the Wonderbolts that I stick to my morals," she said softly. "At Wonderbolt Boot Camp, I stood by what's right—I'm sure Captain Spitfire knows what I'm talking about. And at the tryout grounds in Rainbow Falls, what I value has proved that I'm not gonna always be glued to you guys just because I'm crazy about the Wonderbolts. Bringing others down for my own selfish reasons. That's not what being a Wonderbolt is all about."

Wonderbolts look out for each other.

Rainbow paused, her breath hitching as she fought to keep her composure, wrapping her wings tightly around herself, as if trying to shield her heart from further pain. "Haven't my Academy records proved that I'm willing to push myself harder to get to where I want? Is my position at the top of the Reserves list not enough to tell you that I strive and push myself beyond my limits to get myself to the top instead of cheating my way through?"

Soarin's heart felt as though it was struggling to hold itself together, his own eyes misting over ever so slightly as he saw tears edging her distressed eyes, glistening, on the verge of falling.

Dash's voice croaked out, "Haven't I proved to you enough that I'm a good pony?"

Her lips quivered, and she turned her tear-filled eyes to Soarin, who gazed back at her in pain. He clenched his jaw, and his wings twitched slightly, silently cussing him out in his head.

But Rainbow shook her head gently, her voice tinged with sadness. "I need you to understand, Soarin. I've given everything to be here. And I've done it with integrity, with heart. Why couldn't... why couldn't the 'bolts see that? Why couldn't you see that?"

His chest tightened.

Soarin's thoughts echoed, swiftly making a quick mental note to address the behaviour of the squads present today at their next debrief.

"You were so quick to dismiss me. You made me feel like all my efforts, all my sacrifices, didn't matter." She whispered back, her voice barely audible and her vision slightly glossy.

"You hurt me, Soarin."

.

And just like that, her words struck him like a physical blow, a visceral ache piercing his heart. It felt as if his insides were being devoured by poisonous guilt, crawling through his veins like a venomous serpent, which sent tremors of anguish down his spine.

He knew he had hurt her, but hearing those words from her own lips was unbearable. It was as if he had committed the gravest of sins, a shameful and disgraceful act.

He had shattered something beautiful, something vibrant and full of life, and replaced it with the desolation of his own making. The image of a once-glorious rainbow, now drowned in the heavy rain of his thunderclouds.

He hated this feeling.

Soarin took a deep breath, his own emotions raw and exposed. He stood quietly, processing her words, his hooves fidgeting nervously as he struggled to find the right response.

He wanted to make amends, to bridge the growing divide, but he knew words alone might not be enough.

He had come here for a reason though, and he wasn't about to back down now. Not after hours of self-flagellation, and certainly not after his conversation with Wave.

Soarin took a step back, then turned to his right and moved toward the open window that framed the serene sparkles of the night sky. He placed his right hoof on the ledge, propped himself up, and swiftly hopped onto it, his wings flapping gently as he hovered just above the window ledge.

The moonlight generously highlighted the outline of the bulges of his muscular frame and the powerful wings that kept him aloft. He turned back to look at the confused rainbownette, his eyes softening as they met hers.

"Come here, Rainbow," he spoke softly, his voice filled with tenderness, his eyes searching hers for understanding.

She stood there for a moment, slightly annoyed by his lack of response after going all sappy on him.

Sighing, she hastily blinked to clear the blurry film over her eyes. Once clear, Rainbow took timid steps toward him, her eyes reflecting the gentle twinkles from the stars outside. She knitted her brows together at the determined, hovering stallion in front of her.

With a small, reassuring smile, he reached out, offering his hoof to her. "Let's go for a flight."

Rainbow stared up at him, surprised by his offer. The continuous ache in her muscles reminded her of how exhausted she was from the day's events, particularly the demanding airshow.

Her wings felt heavy, and the thought of flying seemed daunting.

A flight with Soarin Skies?

"Please?" he asked, his voice barely more than a whisper, his hoof still extended towards her.

She looked back at him, conflicted. Sleep had eluded her for the past two hours, despite her body's screams for rest. Her mind was racing with the day's events, and perhaps a short flight might help clear her head.

Biting her lip softly, she swept her tongue across her bottom lip before taking a deep breath.

A night with her idol under the stars, huh?

She hesitantly placed her hoof in his, a subtle tingle exploding through her receptors the moment his touch intertwined with hers. He gently squeezed her hoof, pulling her closer with a comforting grip as she quickly flapped her wings to assist, hovering next to him.

As they took off into the night, the cool breeze ruffled their manes, and the stillness of the night wrapped around them like a comforting blanket. The stars sparkled above, and the moon bathed everything in a silvery glow.

Soarin flew close to Rainbow, his movements protective and attentive. His large wing-span naturally extended slightly over her like a shield, which worked in his favour as he scanned their surroundings for any signs of danger.

Every so often, he glanced over at her, offering a reassuring smile and gently brushing his wing against hers in a gesture of support.

Rainbow never returned his smiles, but she felt herself gradually unwinding, her earlier tension dissipating.

She closed her eyes, exhaling softly. The soft, muffled sound caught Soarin's attention as he glanced back at her, suddenly mesmerised by the sight of her rainbow locks brushing against her closed eyelids and a serene smile gracing her lips. Her face looked completely relaxed, a rare sight that made his heart flutter ever so softly with a mixture of relief and longing.

From the highest balcony of the Canterlot Castle, Princess Luna watched with a fond smile. The pegasi, she mused, were truly the only race that appreciated the serene beauty of her night, warming her heart.

The princess of the night lifted her gaze back at her beautiful, starry night. A sentiment often lost on unicorns and earth ponies.

Rainbow slowly reopened her eyes, staring ahead. Her gaze was steady, her expression peaceful, and Soarin could see the transformation in her demeanour. He visibly noticed how her once-tense muscles had relaxed, and he smiled to himself.

They flew in a comfortable silence, the gentle flapping of their wings being the only sound that accompanied their journey.

Soarin, sensing her newfound ease, subtly maneuvered closer. He reached out, brushing a stray lock of her mane away from her face, his touch lingering for a moment longer than necessary.

Rainbow's pink eyes flickered in surprise at his bold action, a subtle rose glow spreading across her cheeks once again.

"Rainbow Dash, I'm..." he began, trailing off. His voice was gentle, catching her attention as she turned her head slightly to meet his eyes, which were filled with a deep, abiding... what was it?

"I'm so, so incredibly sorry for how I treated you," he sighed, his voice heavy with regret. "I know I've already said it, but my words mean nothing unless I truly show you how deeply sorry I am. I was a fucking idiot for losing my cool and instead treated you like the enemy, not thinking about how my actions would affect someone as special as you."

Rainbow bit her tongue, a fuzzy, strange feeling spreading through her at his supposed heartfelt apology.

Soarin took a deep breath, his gaze never leaving hers.

"It tears me apart knowing I was the reason you lost that energetic sparkle of yours," Soarin continued, his voice breaking slightly. "How you lost that snarky smirk, and how you didn't even look happy after the show despite finally flying alongside us. Rainbow, it hurt so much knowing I was the one who took that joy from you. Seeing you like that made me want to hit my head against a wall for being so stupid. I let my anger and my panic over Spitfire's absence cloud my judgment, and I took it out on you. You didn't deserve any of that."

He gently cupped her hoof in his once again, something Rainbow noticed he'd been doing quite often within the last twenty minutes, his touch tender and reassuring.

"You deserve to be treated like the amazing, incredible pony you are. I don't know what came over me, and I can't change the past. But I can promise you this: I'll do anything to make it right, to show you how much you mean to me, because, Rainbow Dash, you mean everything to me." Rainbow's breath hitched, her heart pounding as his words washed over her.

What?

"You're my Equestrian hero, my favourite racer, and one of my closest friends, and I want to spend every single day showing you just how much you mean to me."

Soarin's eyes never left hers, his gaze filled with sorrow and unwavering devotion. He brought her hoof to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss on it, smiling at the crimson, gaping mare.

"I want to be the pony who makes you smile, who makes you feel loved and cherished," he whispered, his voice barely audible. "I want to be worthy for you, Rainbow Dash. Please, give me a chance to prove it."

Rainbow was at loss, her heart racing way too fast for her liking, as if the ground had vanished beneath her hooves and she was left suspended in the unknown.

The world around them blurred into insignificance, the stars fading into mere pinpricks of light against the vast expanse of the night sky.

All that mattered was the stallion before her, his words echoing in her mind like a mesmerising melody.

What was going on? What was happening? What was he saying?

What did he mean?

The cool air suddenly felt very hot.

Her eyes flickered down to their clasped hooves, still tingling from the ghost of his kiss lingering like an echo. Each heartbeat echoed in her ears, a steady rhythm that mirrored the cadence of her racing pulse. It was all becoming too much for her to handle.

"W-what are you trying to say, Soarin?" She stammered. She felt as though she were teetering on the edge of a precipice, the unknown stretching out before her like an endless abyss.

Soarin smiled gently, a reassuring warmth in his eyes. "Come with me," he said softly, his voice like a soothing balm to her frazzled nerves. "I want to show you something."

And so he led her away, guiding her hoof up towards the massive, fluffy nearby cloud that loomed high in the sky. Its soft, billowing surface welcomed them, ushering them into its fluffy expanse.

They glided effortlessly through the night. The rhythmic beats of their wings created a soothing cadence, each stroke synchronising with the other as if they were in perfect harmony with the night around them.

The world below seemed distant and unimportant, and the expanse of the night sky offered a sense of freedom and possibility that only those gifted with wings could comprehend.

As they settled onto the cloud, Rainbow couldn't tear her gaze away from the breathtaking view below them. Luna's light bathed the landscape in ethereal silver and blue hues.

Below them stretched a vast lake, its surface resembling an ocean in the moonlight. The waves sparkled, each crest catching the light and shimmering like a sea of stars. Tiny, yellow, glowing dots danced near the shore—fireflies flitting about.

The cool night air carried the subtle, fresh scent of water, mingling with the earthy aroma of the surrounding forest. Bioluminescent algae glowed an eerie blue beneath the water's surface, casting an otherworldly light that made the lake seem almost alive. Occasionally, small fish darted through the illuminated water, their scales reflecting the glow and creating ripples of light from the algae.

"Beautiful," she whispered, in awe.

It felt like they were the only two ponies on top of the world, lost in their own bubble of existence.

"Yeah, it is," Soarin responded softly.

Dash turned her head to the left, only to find Soarin gazing at her with a dreamy daze in his eyes.

Her magenta orbs widened subtly in surprise, her heart fluttering wildly.

Dammit, Soarin.

She narrowed her eyes at him, trying to play it cool, but she couldn't help the accidental snort that escaped her. "That's so corny."

Rarity would've killed for this. She couldn't help the small smile that formed across her lips.

Soarin chuckled, rolling his eyes. "Yeah, yeah, laugh it up. But I meant what I said."

Dash paused, biting the inside of her cheeks. His words once again sent her nerves into a chaotic mess.

She heard him shift closer, his body warmth radiating off of him. The gentle brush of his feathers against her own was enough to send a shiver down her spine.

"I... I don't know how to say this," he began, his voice soft but earnest. "But I've realised something tonight. Something important. Something that only really hit me after you wanted nothing to do with me."

Rainbow shifted her whole body to face his, staring right back at him as he gazed nervously into her eyes. He plopped his flank on the cloud, patting the spot next to him.

She took a moment before sitting down beside him, the cloud feeling soft and cool beneath her.

Soarin glanced down at the cloud, gathering his thoughts. He could feel his heart pounding, and he wondered if Rainbow could hear it too.

He took a deep breath, his wings rustling slightly as he turned to face her.

Now or never. He thought.

"When you ignored me, I've never felt so... so damn empty, Rainbow." He furrowed his brows, his voice trembling like a fragile leaf in the wind. "It felt like— the hours felt like years, and everything seemed so dull, so void of colour," he shook his head dryly. "Your vibrant presence, that raspy laughter, your boundless energy. It wasn't the same without you goofing around with me."

Soarin shifted closer, his eyes shimmering with a blend of vulnerability and warmth. "I always look forward to our conversations after every show, Dash," he confessed, his voice as soft as a whispering breeze. "Those moments are the highlights of my day—the way you never miss a chance to roast my pie obsession and how I crack up at how quickly you get riled up so easily. So much anger for such a tiny pony." He chuckled as Rainbow flattened her expression.

"The way you make everything feel lighter when we're around each other." He cracked a smile at her. "And when our breaks align at the Academy, Rainbow, you're such a blast to hang with." His smile suddenly grew into a mischievous smirk.

"Remember that time you tripped over your own hooves during one of your breaks at the Academy? I had to convince the other Reserves nearby that you were demonstrating a new evasive maneuver." He burst into laughter, while Rainbow groaned, rolling her eyes.

His grin only widened. "Or our wing-wrestling matches where you always accuse me of cheating because you can't stand losing, even though we both know my wings are just that strong."

"You ARE cheating," she grumbled, folding her wings indignantly.

Soarin simply rolled his eyes. "Sure, Rainbow, and remember one of our prank wars we had where you replaced all my pies with exploding confetti ones, and I retaliated by filling your locker with rubber snakes?" he snickered. "Your scream echoed through the entire Academy!" He cracked up, and Rainbow couldn't help but let out a small giggle, smiling slightly as she recalled the memory.

"Nah, wait," Rainbow smirked, leaning closer. "And don't forget the time you got tangled in the banner while you were passing by my practice for whatever reason." Soarin slammed his mouth shut, turning red.

He did in fact, remember exactly why he was passing by Dash's practice during his own breaks.

His excuse? Was it his fault that he just wanted to take a small peek at how well his friend's practice was going?

And surely, it wasn't really his fault that she just so happened to strut those sexy, thick legs across the runway while flexing those sensual, lean muscles of hers, completely dripping with sweat rolling off her sleek, hot body.

And, fuck, that plump, curvaceous, teasing flank of hers. If she'd let him have his way with her, his hooves would've spent no time wasted squeezing onto that mouthwatering—

"I had to fly up and rescue you while Spitfire was screaming her ass off at you for disturbing us, and you kept insisting you were just inspecting the fabric." She laughed, nudging him playfully.

Soarin mused, shaking his head. "And you were there, freaking out and scolding me while trying to untangle me."

"Oh, please," she rolled her eyes. "One, I'm too awesome to freak out, and two, somepony has to keep you in check," she teased, a playful glint in her eye as she unconsciously scooted a bit closer, their sides now touching.

He smiled at her, whilst finally finding the right words to say to the incredible mare sitting beside him. Finally figuring out how to show her exactly how much she meant to him.

Finally.

How infatuated he was with her.

"And that's just it, Rainbow," he began, his voice slowly filling with fragile emotions that had been building inside him for so long. Restricted for so long. Screaming at him for so long.

It was time to get it out.

His eyes softened as he gazed at her, his heart swelling with every word. "Our pranks, our banter, our hangouts... they mean more to me than you can imagine.” Rainbow raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his words. “You treat me normally, Rainbow. Somepony under the uniform.”

With a gentle flick of his right wing, Soarin dragged the tip of his feathers against the back of her rainbow mane, gently caressing her. "With you, I don’t have to be perfect. I don’t have to live up to anypony's expectations." he continued, his gaze locked onto hers, his heart pounding in his chest.

Unable to shift closer as their sides were already touching, he leaned his head closer, entranced by the perfect details of her beautifully crafted face. "You make me feel like I can mess around, make mistakes, and just be me. Dash, around you, I feel free. That’s something I’ve only experienced with my teammates, and even then, as Commander, I still have certain expectations to meet.”

A small, genuine smile curved his lips as he looked at her, his eyes reflecting the moonlight.

"But when I’m outside the ranks," he gently nudged her side with a playful yet affectionate gesture, "With you especially, everything we do together... it’s not just fun and games, Rainbow. It’s a reminder that I can be myself with you, and just enjoy the moment. Because of you."

She bit her lip, her heart racing in sync with his, fully aware of his soft feathers tracing slow, circular patterns from her mane to her shoulder blades. His touch sent pleasant tingles through her, his feathers lingering to gently massage her fur.

Soarin’s voice grew softer, more intimate. "Meeting you that day at the Best Young Flier’s Competition was the best thing that ever happened to me. You showed me that it’s okay to take a break and just have fun. And I refuse to let you, the reason that motivates me to live my day to the fullest and be as awesome as I can be, go, Rainbow Dash."

He paused his gentle motions, “Rainbow,” he whispered, "Thank you for being you."

His hoof lingered near her face, his gaze growing more intense, eyes deep and fathomless, brimming with emotions that Rainbow couldn't decipher—or maybe she didn't want to.

She looked away.

Shit.

Perhaps she already knew, and that knowledge terrified her.

It threatened to wash away the storm of resentment she had carefully grown over him these past few hours.

She feared it might strip away her defences, exposing the raw, vulnerable feelings she had buried beneath a veneer of supposed hatred she had for his actions.

"You have no idea how much I appreciate that. How much I appreciate you," he murmured, his voice a soft caress against the evening air. "You see me, truly see me, and that... that means everything to me.”

Rainbow’s eyes softened like the first blush of dawn, a warm glow spreading through her chest like the gentle embrace of sunlight. Their gazes locked with an intensity that mirrored the twinkling stars above, his heart beating a symphony of admiration and vulnerability.

His hoof lifted to trace tender circles on her forehoof, mimicking the motion of his occupied feathers. His touch was a whispered promise, sending a ripple of warmth through her akin to a soft, caressing breeze on a summer night.

"I've always admired you, Dash," he whispered, his voice a velvet caress on the evening air. "Not just for your unparalleled skill as a flyer, nor for your bravery in the face of danger, but for the essence of who you are."

Rainbow's heart pounded in her chest. "Your spirit is a wildfire, fierce and untamed, that bravery of yours that shines brighter than Celestia's sun. You're fearless, always willing to dive headfirst into danger to defend the vulnerable, ready to shield others from harm, and fuck, Dash, that's irresistibly attractive." His cheeks flushed, a sheepish smile crossing his lips as he rubbed the back of his neck, momentarily overwhelmed by his own heartfelt admission. "Your determination. Your strength. You never back down from a challenge. Celestia, that strong-willed resilience of yours is more than inspiring. It's captivating. Enchanting. Fuck that—you're enchanting, Rainbow Dash."

Rainbow's cheeks bloomed with a delicate hue of pink, her ears flickering with a mix of bashfulness and giddiness as she listened intently.

For a moment, she glanced away, trying to conceal the smile that tugged at her lips, but Soarin caught the subtle curve, and it fueled his confidence.

Internally, within the vast mental expanse of his mind, he pumped his hoof up in the air, unable to contain his happiness as he saw how his words were slowly having an effect on the most entrancing mare he had ever laid his eyes upon.

"You think I don’t remember all the times you saved me? You think I don’t appreciate and value you after you risked your own safety to keep me safe? Dash, I am in literal life debt to you." Soarin hoof stilled on her forehoof, the gentle motion coming to a halt as he looked deeper into her eyes, "Not just from physical danger, but emotionally too. I’ll never forget you standing up for me against Spitfire and Fleetfoot. You’re always there, pushing yourself and those around you to be better."

He brought her hoof to his chest, letting her feel the steady, heartfelt rhythm of his heartbeat as she glanced down at where her left hoof met. "Your dedication, your loyalty, your unyielding spirit—they make you who you are. They make you beautiful inside and out. It's everything I admire and love about you." His eyes softened, the depth of his feelings shining through. "You may be the biggest fan of the Wonderbolts, Dash, but Rainbow, I’m your biggest fan."

The moment those words left his mouth, a warm, fluttering sensation exploded through her chest immediately, his words a delicate web of sincerity and love.

OhmygoshOhmygoshOhmygosh.

He gently removed her hoof from his chest, clasping it tenderly and squeezing it gently.

This was really happening.

Rainbow didn’t think it was possible to become even redder than she already was, but her body betrayed her, her cheeks now a deeper, rosier hue.

Her heart fluttered wildly as she tilted her head slightly. Her mane, a cascade of prismatic brilliance, seemed to capture every glimmer of the moonlight, reflecting it back in a dazzling array of colours. Each strand shimmered like silk, framing her face with a halo of ethereal light. The starlight danced along the strands, highlighting the vivid spectrum of colours that made her mane so uniquely and glowingly beautiful.

Soarin felt his heart skip a beat at the sight, causing him to pause the circular movements of his feathers on her shoulders, folding his wings back on his back. Rainbow felt a pang of disappointment as his warmth retreated.

"And Rainbow, you're not just an amazing friend. I've said it before, but you're stunningly beautiful." Soarin's breath hitched, and the moonlight cast a soft, magical glow on her cyan fur, accentuating the delicate contours of her face. "I adore how vibrant your mane becomes upon catching the light. When you're flying, it's like watching the most breathtaking rainbow stretch across the sky.”

He reached out, gently brushing a stray lock of her mane behind her ear before cupping her right cheek. The softness of her fur against his hoof made his heart flutter, and he couldn't resist caressing her cheekbone with a tender touch, marvelling at the silky texture under his hoof.

"Those beautiful, cerise eyes—they’re hypnotising, Dash. I feel compelled to listen to them, to sway at whatever that cute, tempered mouth of yours has to say. When you laugh, it's the sweetest melody, and it gives me chills. Goosebumps. That little snort you do when you laugh too hard? It's the most adorable sound I've ever heard."

She tilted her head downwards, using a hoof to cover half of her face as a small, shy smile spread across her lips, her blush peeking through beneath her hoof.

Soarin couldn’t help but d’awwl at how her entire being radiated a rare, bashful charm.

Her wings, slightly ruffled, added to her allure, each feather catching the gentle night breeze. The subtle quiver of her wings mirrored the nervous excitement she felt, making her even more enchanting, even more adorable.

Cute.

Soarin’s voice turned into a husky whisper, dripping with intimacy.

He shifted his hoof from her cheek to gently cup her chin, tilting it upwards so their eyes locked in a magnetic gaze. "It’s the little things too, Rainbow," their breaths mingled in the close space between them, their lips dangerously inches apart, "Like how your mane gets all windswept after a day of flying, yet you still look effortlessly stunning. I love the way your feathers ruffle when you’re excited, and that adorable nose scrunch when you’re deep in thought.”

Dash couldn’t handle any more of his fluffy, overwhelming adoration.

The mare who once thrived on praise now found herself shying away, closing her eyes tightly, though the giddy smile never left her face.

His gaze intensified, suddenly darkening with heating desire as he traced a tender path along her jawline, the touch igniting sparks against her fur, "And how your flawless body is a perfect blend of arousing athleticism and hot beauty. Those incredibly sexy wings of yours, so strong and agile, Dash, they move with a precision that leaves me breathless every single time."

Her eyes snapped wide open.

WHA—

He leaned in closer, his lips brushing against her left ear and his breath grazed her earlobe, sending an erotic shiver down her spine.

"And in times, for example, when I see your pretty mane clinging to your pretty face after a sweaty workout," his eyes fired with passion as he bit his lip, his gaze momentarily dazing away at the thought, "It takes all my willpower to control myself from doing something so suggestively scandalous and so ruttingly stimulating to you."

Rainbow’s wings sprang open like startled birds from his unexpected confession, her cheeks ablaze with a fiery crimson that crept down her neck. Her jaw hung agape in astonishment at his insanely blunt m-rated words, a surprised squeak escaping her lips.

OHMYGOSHOHMYGOSHOHMYGOSH.

Her gaze darted between his smouldering emerald eyes and the white cloud beneath, unable to meet his gaze directly.

“Soarin… “ She stuttered, inhaling sharply.

The tips of her hooves fidget nervously against one another, unable to stop the uncontrollable wide smile spreading across her flustered face.

A low sigh of satisfaction escaped him as he savoured her reaction, a relaxed smile forming on his face.

“You have no idea what you do to me, Dash. Every little thing about you drives me so fucking crazy,” Soarin whispered, his voice laced with fervour as Rainbow felt her heart swell, screaming at her to burst from her chest.

“And if it wasn’t clearer enough… ”

He inched closer, their foreheads finally touching, the warmth of his skin seeping into hers.

The night air around them seemed to hold its breath, the only sound their mingling breaths.

He then momentarily closed his eyes as if gathering his thoughts. He chuckled softly, the sound vibrating through the small space between them before reopening the pure, passionate, vulnerable love dancing through his emerald orbs.

“I love you, Rainbow Dash,” he exhaled slowly, eyelids drooping heavy with intimate love, drifting into a blissful reverie, “I love you so damn much.”

Rainbow felt a zapping shiver running down her spine, her wings twitching in response with goosebumps rising along her skin. His touch, his gaze, his very words—they enveloped her like a warm, comforting blanket, each syllable sinking deep into her soul.

Soarin loves me.

She felt as though she might suffocate, overwhelmed with immense happiness and sensation she had dreamed of for many moons but never truly believed she would feel.

Finally, after longing endlessly to hear those three words, those ethereal, enchanting words. They were spoken to her.

To her.

From him.

It was as if a lifetime of waiting had culminated in this moment, where her heart soared with an indescribable rush of emotion. Her entire being felt alive with the realisation of his love.

“Not the Gala that just went by a month ago for obvious reasons; the ‘bolts couldn’t make it. But the last Grand Galloping Gala where we saw one another, I've had the biggest crush on you since.” Soarin confessed, his voice filled with earnest passion that seemed to echo in the night air.

Rainbow blinked in surprise, her eyebrows arching up.

That long ago?

His chest rose and fell deeply as he inhaled slowly. “And in that time, I’ve fallen for you, Rainbow Dash,” he continued, his loving emerald eyes never leaving her wide, magenta ones. “So incredibly hard.”

He’s liked me for more than a year, oh my Celestia...

The moonlight bathed them in its gentle glow, casting an ethereal luminescence over their intertwined forms. Stars twinkled above, as if the universe itself was blessing their moment.

“Even if you haven’t yet, when I’ve shown you just how much I care, I’ll be there to catch you when you fall too.”

Cadence, bless his precious heart and his way with words.

The soft rustle of leaves in the cool breeze and the distant hum of night creatures provided a serene soundtrack to their intimate exchange. Carrying with it was the faint scent of blooming flowers, adding to the magic of the moment.

Rainbow exhaled a soft, breathy sigh, her lips parting ever so slightly as she gazed up at him lovingly.

Her eyes, alight with happiness, caught the lunar glow, making them shine like radiant ruby gemstones in the moonlight. “You have no idea how long I’ve waited to hear those words,” she whispered, her voice a blend of relief and elation.

Soarin’s face lit up, her words and the sparkle in her eyes confirming that the gorgeous rainbow-maned pegasus did in fact feel an intimate connection between them.

Holy shit, I can't believe I actually did it! He thought, impressed by his own woeing abilities his friends so often made fun of as a wave of giddy excitement washed over him.

Rainbow, overtaken by a surge of affection, pressed her entire body against his chest, nuzzling into the curve his neck where her warm breath gently caressed his fur.

His wings fluttered slightly in response to this unusual gesture from the usually brash mare, a physical manifestation of the excitement coursing through him.

“Since the Royal Wedding, after our dance, I’ve been wrestling with my feelings,” she began, her hooves gently encircling his sturdy neck as she buried her muzzle in his chest. “That night, I’ve never felt such a rush of confusing, fluttering emotions before. It was weird, and I didn’t know how to feel.”

She discreetly inhaled his earthy scent, feeling the steady rhythm of his breath. “It scared me, this unknown emotion. The brave, brash Rainbow Dash was terrified and it was all because of you,” her voice quivered, carrying the weight of her vulnerability.

Soarin, taken aback by her raw honesty, looked down at her with concern and curiosity, his expression softening with each passing moment.

Rainbow was scared?

“So I tried my best to push it to the back of my mind, to shrug it off,” she murmured, pulling back slightly to meet his gaze.

“But a few months ago, during the Equestrian tryouts, at the hospital, and especially seeing you go through a near-death experience,” she continued, her hooves gently cradling his cheeks, “the thought of losing you terrified me.”

Her voice trembled with the weight of her confession. “That’s when I knew I couldn’t deny my feelings anymore, Skies. That’s when I knew that I…”

Her words hung in the air, unfinished, but their meaning was clear.

Soarin’s smile slowly grew, his face leaning into the warmth of her hooves, relaxing under her gentle touch.

"Rainbow," he breathed out.

She hesitated, drawing in a deep breath that seemed to echo the racing of her heart, each beat a crescendo of emotions swirling within her.

"Soarin," she whispered, her voice carrying the firm weight of sincerity and vulnerability, "I like you. A lot. An insane amount."

And just like that, it felt as if they were finally releasing a pressure valve that had been suppressed for too long.

Months of carefully guarded feelings surged forth, pouring out like a torrent of love-sick emotions that had been held back by fear and uncertainty.

Each confession from one another felt like a cathartic release, and they could only look back at the other blue pegasus in front of them with such intensity of pure, raw love.

Finally.

The stupid smile on his face only widened further, barely containing the urge to leap into the air, pat himself on the back, and flex to his teammates that he had finally won the heart of the mare he had long desired and shied away from.

He didn’t mind that she hadn’t declared her love with the same intensity as he did; it was enough for him to know that she felt something.

Her admission was a treasure, a promise of deeper feelings to come. He was determined to make her fall in love with him, slowly, at her own pace. Day by day, he would show her just how deeply he cherished her.

Soarin lifted his own hooves, gently cupping her hooves that were cradling his cheeks. His forest-green, glowing eyes locked onto her royal-like, shimmering ones with a blend of unwavering love and determination.

"I know how you’re like, Dash, so I promise," he said softly, his left hoof carefully lowering her left hoof back onto the soft cloud below, "I'll be by your wing through your highs and lows," he continued, retaining her right hoof in his grasp, bringing it tenderly closer to his lips.

"I'll take you on dates under the starlit sky, race alongside you in the winds, and devote every moment to you. I'll risk everything for you, Rainbow.” With a slight tilt of his head, he pressed a feather-light kiss onto her hoof.

“To show you every day just how deeply I love you. And when you’re ready, I'll be here waiting, to make you mine completely." His gaze held hers, filled with a silent promise of a love that went beyond titles.

He’s not rushing me.

She smiled.

What had she done to deserve the devotion of such a considerate stallion who understood her need to take her time before reciprocating those three heartfelt words back?

Soarin drew nearer till their foreheads met once again, their muzzles gently brushing against each other.

"Let's go on this flight together," he whispered, his voice brimming with hope and adoration, his words a reference and vision of their path of love unfolding over the years to come.

Rainbow closed her eyes, savouring the closeness, the intimacy of her beloved stallion who vowed to sweep her off her hooves and catch her when she falls.

"Together," she echoed softly, her voice infused with quiet strength.

She embraced his promise

Rainbow nestled her head against his shoulder.

A tranquil sense of peace enveloped her, eclipsed by the overwhelming gratitude they felt for each other's presence.

Soarin smiled, a blend of contentment and adoration, as he gently draped a wing over her, drawing her nearer in a protective, loving gesture beneath the starlit canopy.

Above them, the constellations bore witness to a new chapter unfolding in their story, one painted with hues of love, forgiveness, and the promise of a shared future.

Surrounded by the quiet beauty of the sparkling night, the trials of the emotionally exhausting day faded into obscurity as they gladly savoured their desiring connection that defied words.

Soarin lowered his head to the mare nestled beside him, resting his chin against her prismatic mane. His touch grazed her hair in a gentle caress, a vow of his unwavering devotion to the mare he'd promised to protect till his last breath.

With her eyes closed, Rainbow breathed in the serenity that engulfed the two lovers, feeling the loving warmth of his breath against her ear.

Each touch, each heartbeat exchanged in the moonlit quietude, spoke of a precious love that transcended time and space—a love that had found its home in their intertwined souls.

In this intimate embrace, amid the quiet murmurs of the night and the tender gestures that bound them together, they found sanctuary.

Peace.

They were grateful for the journey that had brought them together, for the moments shared, and for the unspoken promise of a future where their love would continue to blossom and thrive.

Forever.

"Hey, Soar?"

He lifted his chin from the top of her rainbow locks, tilting down to face the small mare nestled in his embrace, the mare he could now call his.

"Yes, Dashie?"

She smiled warmly, her pink eyes momentarily clouded with a dreamy haze as she leaned in closer, lifting her head higher.

Her gaze briefly danced over his lips before she closed her eyes gently, leaning in before delicately pressing her own soft lips against his tender ones, delving into the innocent kiss drowned with overwhelming warmth and sweetness, sealing their fiery love for one another with an act of pure, raw affection.

She retreated only a fleeting second later after intimately locking her soft lips with her newfound lover, giggling at his stunned expression who was sporting the most endearingly goofy, happiest smile she had ever seen.

"I forgive you."

﹒──﹒──﹒──﹒﹒✿ ﹒﹒──﹒──﹒──﹒

The Wonderbolt Compound stood like a fortress under the relentless gaze of the midday sun, its sleek lines and polished surfaces reflecting the oppressive heat that seemed to hold the entire compound in its grip.

The air shimmered with the heatwaves rising from the ground, distorting the view of the distant mountains and making the surroundings appear surreal and distant.

Within the compound, the atmosphere was unusually quiet.

Normally bustling with activity, today it lay eerily still and deserted. The expansive halls echoed with emptiness. The gymnasium, equipment laid abandoned, its usual clang and thud replaced by a heavy silence that seemed to absorb all sound. In the recreation room, usually alive with chatter and laughter, the silence was almost oppressive. Chairs and tables stood empty, scattered remnants of a place usually filled with camaraderie and relaxation.

Not a voice disturbed the quietude that had settled over the compound like a heavy blanket.

Not even the usual raucous screaming of Spitfire, the laughter of Surprise, the curses of Blaze, or the flirtatious banter of Lightning could be heard.

Inside the Mess Hall, the atmosphere was tense and suffused with exhaustion.

Pegasus, their once-gleaming manes now tangled and damp with sweat, gathered around the cafeteria tables like weary soldiers after a battle.

Feathers were ruffled and bruised, bodies slumped in weariness, some leaning heavily against one another, others collapsing onto the tables in total fatigue. Trays of food lay largely untouched, abandoned in the face of overwhelming exhaustion.

The air itself seemed heavy with the acrid scent of sweat, mingling with the scent of uneaten food to create a potent, unpleasant aroma that pervaded the room.

It was a testament to the gruelling practice session they had just endured under Spitfire's unrelenting command.

Amongst the sea of exhausted pegasi who had just endured Spitfire's promised wrath following the events at Canterlot yesterday, two stood out, appearing relatively unaffected compared to their comrades.

Undoubtedly, any pony would have assumed they would be fine regardless, for holding the titles of Captain and First Commander required enduring the most arduous challenges and proving their mettle through countless trials.

Spitfire, however, was the only pegasus who had not participated in the brutal drills, for it was her punishment for her team.

Her piercing gaze surveyed the room, incredibly satisfied.

Soarin, on the other hoof, despite his equally battered state—his mane drenched with sweat, the strands clinging to his forehead—held the biggest, ridiculous-looking goofiest grin.

His demeanour was almost comically unfazed by the gruelling drills, the harshest they had experienced in years. His muscles ached, his wings were sore, yet there was an infectious lightness in his presence.

"What the fuck are you smiling at?" Silver Lining grumbled, breaking the heavy silence that hung in the Mess Hall.

Everypony else was too exhausted to even utter a word, their energy sapped by Spitfire's punishing drills, but Silver couldn't ignore the sight before him.

His eyes narrowed at the young, navy-haired stallion, who was cheerfully munching on his mashed potatoes.

Too cheerfully.

"You got a pain kink or something?"

Blaze or even Fleetfoot would have added their own witty remark, likely peppered with a few jokes, seeing how Soarin's unrelenting cheerfulness was odd. They could only manage to grunt in agreement at the older stallion's jab, too drained to muster anything more.

Soarin paused, closing his mouth, his right wing frozen mid-air, holding a spoon laden with mashed potatoes between his feathers. Instead of faltering, his goofy, oversized grin only broadened, and he quickly returned the spoon to his tray.

"I'm smiling because... I'm happy," he concluded, his smile never wavering.

Spitfire, seated a few spots away, raised an eyebrow in mild curiosity, while Silver merely huffed in exasperation. "Colt, what is the reason behind that insufferable, obnoxious happiness of yours?"

Soarin sighed contentedly, his eyelids drooping as he sank deeper into a blissful daze. His smile, impossibly wide, stretched even further across his face—a smile none of his teammates had ever seen.

He placed a hoof on his chest as if trying to contain the euphoria threatening to burst from his heart, gazing dreamily into the distance. "Rainbow Dash," he murmured, his voice filled with a love-struck reverence. It was as if tiny hearts floated in his eyes, and his heart pounded so fiercely that it seemed ready to leap from his chest.

At the mention of her name, Fleetfoot and Surprise both shot their heads back up from the table, their eyes widening at their Commander, completely dumbfounded.

It was as if their previous exhaustion had evaporated in an instant.

Spitfire, too, was clearly taken aback by the unexpected revelation, not expecting their reconciliation as friends so swiftly, and yet, a bit confused at his... love-dazed state?

"I swear, I hear that name more than I see my own damn wife." Silver rolled his eyes, amused, as he observed Soarin's lovesick demeanour.

"WAIT A SECOND!" Surprise suddenly burst out of nowhere, springing up between Soarin and Rapidfire.

Rapid, however, seemed too lost in his own exhaustion, barely registering her sudden movement or presence beside him.

Surprise grabbed Soarin by the collar, yanking his face towards her until their foreheads nearly touched. Her right eye bulged comically as she scrutinised him, searching for any sign of deception.

"ARE YOU AND RAINBO—"

"Yes," Soarin interrupted, his smirk widening into that same stupidly big grin he couldn't seem to shake.

Instantly, Surprise released him, her grip loosening as she stumbled back, eyes wide with a mixture of shock and giddy excitement. Her overdramatic gasp echoed through the Mess Hall, catching the attention of the turquoise mare sitting next to Rapid, who let out an equally exaggerated squeal.

Fleetfoot shot up from her seat, her wings unfurling in a dramatic display of astonishment, her mouth gaping wide. "SOARIN SKIES IS FUCKING RAINBOW DASH!"

FFOMP

Soarin's wings reflexively sprang up, his eyes widening in embarrassment before quickly flattening his brows, muttering under his breath, "Why didn't I see this coming... "

Fleetfoot's claim rippled through the table like an electric shock. Every pony present perked up, their ears swivelling as they slowly lifted their heads to fix their wide-eyed gaze on their Commander.

Spitfire, known for her stoic demeanour, couldn't mask her astonishment. Her lips parted slightly, her gaze flickering between the appalled expressions of Fire Streak and Wave Chill seated on either side of her.

Fleetfoot snickered, nudging Blaze with a wing. The exhausted mare barely lifted her head from the table, muttering, "I fucking knew it," before collapsing back into her previous position.

Silver Lining looked up from his own tray, a smirk playing on his lips. "Well, isn't this a surprise?" he drawled, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Commander stallioned up and finally grew some balls."

Rapidfire, snapping out of his daze, blinked in confusion at the sudden commotion. "What did I miss?"

Fleetfoot leaned in, pressing her left cheeks against his right, whispering incredibly loudly, "Soarin ate out Rainbow Dash's kitty cat last night."

Rapidfire's eyes widened, and he let out a low whistle, turning to face his buddy next to him. "Well, I'll be damned. About time. Congrats bro!"

Soarin turned crimson, his expression a mix of bewilderment and mild embarrassment as he glared incredulously at the youngest mare on the team. "Okay, that did NOT happen—"

"I'm sure the angry make-up sex was ROUGH!" Fleetfoot burst into uncontrollable giggles, her laughter infectious as Surprise joined in, their mirth echoing through the room. Across from him, he noticed Mistyfly stifling her own laughter between Silver and Fire Streak, where the latter stallion simply snorted.

Soarin raised an eyebrow at Mistyfly, his shock evident. "Seriously, Misty, you too?"

"Well, Commander," Lighting suddenly pipped in with a playful smirk, "With how you go on about how bangin' her body is, I'm surprised it took you this long to claim that piece of skittle ass."

"Oh my fucking Celestia," Soarin groaned, a mixture of exasperation and amusement washing over him as his teammates' banter continued. His lips curled into an indulgent smile, watching the laughter ripple through the room, particularly from Fleetfoot and Surprise, who seemed to relish the moment the most.

"SOARINDASH HAS SAILED!"

"I hate you guys," Soarin chuckled, shaking his head in mock irritation, though his grin only widened. The once subdued atmosphere had blossomed into a lively symphony of energy and joy, even if it was at his own expense.

Yet, amidst the playful teasing and infectious laughter, he could sense their genuine happiness for him.

Soarin felt an overwhelming sense of contentment.

At that moment, surrounded by friends who had become family, Soarin knew he had found something rare and precious.

It wasn't merely banter they were celebrating—No. Truly, they were celebrating something far more significant.

They were all celebrating the beginning of a new chapter in their Commander's book, shared with the mare who had captured his heart.

Closing his eyes, Soarin smiled as the image of a certain rainbow-maned pegasus filled his thoughts.

He knew he was looking at his future.

His soon-to-be fillyfriend.

His mare.

She was his Rainbow, his Dashie, the one who had woven herself into the fabric of his heart.

And Soarin was certain that he had found his forever.

Author's Note

୨ৎ . 18 362 words ALL TOGETHER . ୨ৎ

Please like! Lemme rant rq.

AHHH SM LOVE AND YET SHE DIDN'T SAY THE L-WORD BACK UNFORTUNATELY! Maybe that comes when he asks her to be his gf :derpytongue2:

I really tried to stress out the idea of how RESPECTED and how much status Rainbow Dash actually has in Equestria. Also yes, I'm completely aware Silver Lining's canon name is Silver Zoom. And Idgaf.

I actually love the Wonderbolts so damn much. But the opportunity laid out in Rarity Investigates! S5E15 really gave me the chance to criticise some of the most unprofessional and shittiest shits they've ever shitting done since Season 1.

Full offence, why the fuck and how the fuck can you accuse somepony with such a status and somepony who has PROVED to you a million times how much better they are than you in every aspect. Especially morality. :flutterrage:

QUOTE ON QUOTE Spitfire in Rainbow Falls S4E10 — "Saw it at the Academy, seeing it again here. We could learn a lot from a competitor like you."

Oh, and also, 18k words is fucking crazy. APPRECIATE ME PLS KMS.

I hope you enjoyed it! :heart:

yours truly,

raarie ♡ raa_raa_reads─ ꒱ July, 2024

⁎︎ ౨ৎ ❝︎ 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝❞︎ ∽ ︎