Beyond Our Hearts
by Moonlightprincess002
First published
It's been some time of Rainbow Dash recruited as a wonderbolt. However, she still feels a distinction. Once Soarin enters her life, everything starts to change. Even her emotions and her heart...
It's been quite some time of Rainbow Dash recruited as a wonderbolt. However, she still feels a distinction upon the team, having many struggles. Once a certain team-mate, Soarin, enters her life, everything starts to change.
Princess Celestia decides to bring back an ancient tradition of Heart's Warming Eve. And the both mane six and the wonderbolts can't wait for it. When Spitfire dares Soarin to ask her out for this event, he makes a horrible mistake and ruins his friendship with Dash.
Will he redeem himself or fail? Or the fate has something beyond for them?
****
cover art, story, editing by me 
Piction 1: I've had enough...
Author's Notes:
Hi, everyone! Welcome to my story
All written and illustrated by me
Another beautiful day in Equestria was keep going in Equestria. The Wind in your mane, a cloudless sky... Everything was perfect for the show in Manehattan for Wonderbolts. Well except one of them, the newbie of the team, Rainbow Dash. It's been four months since she joined the team, however, she was still feeling distinct.
Today was the last show of the first term and she was going to do her best. --No matter what happens. Finally, the time arrived. The team took their places beside the doors. An announcer's boomed in the stadium.
"FILLIES AND GENTLECOLTS! HERE ARE THE WONDERBOLTS!"
Spitfire's and Soarin's squads divided into two groups. The first group drew zigzag patterns across the sky and the second one -which was Rainbow in, did very complicated series of twirls and somersaults. Soon two groups united again, created a firework by their trails.
The cheers of the ponies roared in Dash's ears, placing a smile on her face. She saw a little filly yelling her name a colourful banner with "GO RAINBOW DASH!" while she was gazing it, she bumped into Misty Fly, slightly ruining their routine. Misty glared at her very harshly. Dash gulped and proceeded her move.
After series of many magnificent and daring moves, the time of final movement arrived. Rainbow Dash rose in the air, higher and higher... Then dived very rapidly and completed her signature movement, the sonic rainboom. The noise of applauses covered everywhere.
All wonderbolts headed to the lockers. Rainbow put a towel around her neck. Boy, this day was surely rough. Everyone congratulated each other. Finally, the first them has ended. Spitfire invited them around.
"EVERYTHING IS ON ME! LET'S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!" she exclaimed happily.
Rainbow smirked and shook her head. Nearly all of them collapsed her and just a few left. She sighed and idly walked and ran to Misty again.
"Hey watch wherever you're going! This is the second time today." Misty said.
"I-I'm sorry. I was just-"
"Get out from my way. You really are just a Crash!" she brushed herself off, joining the herd.
Several months passed since she hired as a wonderbolt even though she was still facing reactions like that nearly every single day. Whenever she does a simple mistake, sour expressions were shivering her spine like the first snow of winter. What was she doing wrong? All she was trying to be gentle as much as she could.
While she was busy her thoughts, a soft touch on her shoulder brought her back to reality.
"Yo, Crash. Still, in the land of Princess Luna?" Soarin inquired.
"Oh, n-not exactly," Dash replied.
"C'mon Dash. I know you enough that you have a problem."
"I'm OK, Clipper."
"If you say so Crashie."
"Crashie? Pfft, where'd that come from?" Dash chuckled lightly.
"I don't know Crashie. But you like it eh?" he nudged her.
She rolled her eyes and pushed him away. Then got her saddlebag and followed Soarin. When they entered to restaurant everyone was already singing and dancing along. Rainbow and Soarin sat to a table, ordered two ciders. Spitfire welcomed them.
Rainbow soon went to the dance floor and tried to include their dance. Once she found a gap, she placed herself in them but a certain aqua green-maned, light yellow pony pushed her away. 'What the hay?' Dash murmured to herself. She danced a bit and returned to the drinks table. There were no one there.
She watched her drink for a while and flew outside, somewhere further. Dash landed on a big cloud. What was wrong with Misty? Why was she acting so hard like this? Yes, she had bumped into her twice today and yet, she apologised. And she knew that right now nobody cared about her absence. Dash clenched her teeth roughly.
Suddenly she heard a voice calling her name.
"RAINBOW DASH! WHERE ARE YOU?"
She didn't respond it, whoever it was she felt it was pointless to respond.
"DASH ARE YOU THERE?"
Then the owner of the voice noticed a rainbow view and neared her.
"Oh thank Celestia! Where have you been Dash?" he asked.
"None of your business. I wanted to catch some fresh air Soarin."
"But, why? We are having fun here."
"OH YEAH A FUN WITHOUT CARE ABOUT ME!" Rainbow yelled suddenly.
"D-Dash?"
She backed away let few drops flow from her cheeks, sniffling slightly. Soarin frowned at her sight. Something seemed really wrong with her.
"Dash, why are you crying?"
Dash took a deep breath and gave him a very hurt look. "WHY? WHY AM I CRYING? BECAUSE FOR MANY MONTHS I STILL FEEL LIKE A NUISANCE FOR THE TEAM! NO ONE GIVES A DAMN ABOUT ME! AND ONLY SPITFIRE TALKS WITH ME SERIOUSLY DUE TO HER CAPTAIN DUTIES!" She continued. "AND THEY ARE SHOWING IT AGAIN. I'VE HAD ENOUGH SOARIN!"
Soarin shocked at her statement. This wasn't entirely true, at least for himself. She had saved her like four times and, how could he be ungrateful to her? He leant in removed her tears.
"B-but it's not true Dash."
"W-what do you mean S-Soarin?" Dash replied shakily.
"I always wanted to get to know you better, become closer with you," Soarin said.
"R-really?"
Soarin nodded and handed her a tissue. Moonlight illuminated a possible beginning inside Rainbow, maybe something more...
Piction 2: N-No I don't!
It's been nearly a month from the Misty incident and everything was going better and, better by Soarin... There was something with him, embracing Dash warm and secure as a blanket. Also, whenever she was with him, the rest of the team was treating her like a part of the group. She already befriended with Fleetfoot and Spitfire.
Rainbow passed the last sharp corner, blowing up Soarin with her trail. He stabilised himself and went to the finish. Dash was doing her "legendary" victory dance. Soarin smirked slightly.
"Aw Yeah! It's the fifth time this week Clipper; You'll be a slowpoke if you don't try hard." Dash said.
"Hey! I'm trying. OK? It's just you are lucky." He replied.
"Yeah, yeah. I'm really starving; We should go somewhere."
As thinking the same thing, Soarin's stomach growled. Rainbow just shook her head and began to fly. They arrived at a near patisserie. It became sort of habit for them to go out to a restaurant or café after a friendly race. Their favourite place to was the humble and small bakery beside the Wonderbolts H.Q. Soon they arrived their place. They slowly glided inside, and the scent of many pastries filled their nostrils.
Soarin got an apple pie as usual and Dash went for the chocolate cinnamon roll. If there was anything, nopony knew about Rainbow, it was her chocolate love. Since she was a filly, she always adored it. Because of that, her mouth watered and her eyes widened once she bit her food. Soarin just chuckled at her.
"Hey! Why are you laughing?" Rainbow protested, removing the cream.
"N-Nothing. I haven't known that you like chocolate that much!"
"Well, yes I do. Still, I don't eat the pie like a timberwolf!" She replied.
He gave her a semi-harsh glare, turned around. A mist of stillness covered them for a while. Dash's eyes began to close gingerly, her head dropped to Soarin's shoulder. Soarin winced at the action and noticed her sleeping figure. She was like another when she was asleep. So innocent and defenceless...
For a few minutes he didn't move, just watched her. How could the ponies in the team treat her so badly? She was a newbie true, she seemed as a failure true. But, why acting as she is a nuisance? That was completely pointless for him. Rainbow saved their flanks like dozen times and her "idols" were returning the favour by ignoring her.
Suddenly the weight on his shoulder lost. Dash rubbed her eyes and yawned. "Aaah! Hey Soarin, why are you still here?"
"Well, I waited to awake," he replied bluntly. "You slept on my shoulder."
A wave of heat exploded on her face. Had she really done that?
"I-I'm s-sorry Soarin! I was just too sleepy and-"
"Hey, hey! I wasn't blaming you. It's OK."
She nodded and thanked him. Why did he have to be so gentle?
****
Rainbow trotted to Twilight's castle for their weekly tea party. Once she entered the room, she saw everypony there. Due to her busy working schedule, she could barely visit them. She took her place and Twilight met her.
"Welcome, Dash! We were just talking about you."
"Oh, Really? I'm here now."
"So, How was your week?" Fluttershy inquired.
"It was fine actually. Well, things between me and the team are going better thanks to Soarin."
"It's nice to hear that, Sugarcube." said Applejack.
"Yeah." Dash grinned. "I even kicked his butt in races this week! Even though, I passed off on his shoulder."
"You passed out on his shoulder?! Awww, what'd he do?" Rarity joined the chat, with an eager expression on her face.
"Ugh, Rarity! He just waited until I get up."
Rarity combined her hooves and clapped. It seemed a new romance issue was about to born. Which would keep her occupied for some time!
"Aww! He likes you, darling. Such a sweet stallion!"
"W-WHAT? It's not true Rarity; we're only friends!" Rainbow protested.
"Are you sure Rainbow Dash? He apparently cares about you according to your explanations."
"YES! And why would he like me? He's my superior officer and too good for me."
"Why not? You saved him so many times." Twilight answered.
Dash blushed and pouted like a moody foal. "This is ridiculous! Can we cut this please?"
Everypony started to chuckle at her reaction and the chuckles shifted to laughter. Rarity just uttered one thing.
"He sure doesn't dear, he sure doesn't."
Piction 3: Bloody Lura?!
It was another end of a week, Friday. The wonderbolts were training harder than the usual for the upcoming winter solstice. They all headed to the exit and sighed in a relief. Finally, some time to relax... Rainbow was becoming a part of the team day by day; she could feel it. And they were already close friends with Soarin so that they had known each other since the foal hood. She was walking with him, side by side again and suddenly Surprise cut their way.
"Hey Dashie, Soarin! We are going to Fleet's home for a Friday game night. Are you coming?" she said, jumping with excitement.
"Well, we'd like to join you but-" Dash couldn't finish her words.
"We are doing our first movie night with Dash." said Soarin.
"Yeah, we are but if somepony let me complete my sentence I was going to say that!"
"Sorry, Dash. It's just, I can't wait for it!"
"Oooh! So you guys are having a date tonight, right?" Surprise replied eagerly.
"N-No Surprise! It's just a friends hangout." Rainbow told, with a blush; Soarin joining her.
"Whatever you say Dashie. See you guys around!"
Surprise waved at them and left. Why do her friends and Surprise think like that? They were just friends nothing else nothing much. And their claims weren't making the things any easier. Dash couldn't help but keep thinking about it after their tea party. It was just too much for her.
She just gazed at the stallion who was flying with her and followed him idly to his house.
****
Finally, they arrived at Soarin's house. It wasn't so for to the Wonderbolts H.Q., somewhere outside the Cloudsdale. It had two floors and was a larger structure than Dash's home. In front of the building, there was a fountain of lightning which seemed a bit odd to Rainbow. But once she remembered his talent was lightning stability, it was legit.
They headed to inside the house. The rooms were slightly narrower compared to outside. She slowly glided to the couch and placed herself. Everything was so "Soarin" style in the room. There was a huge curved LCD, so many wonderbolt items and even a pie stock beside the sofas! She smirked at the stock.
Soarin came back from the kitchen, sat next to her with some snacks in his hooves.
"So Dash, What should we watch?" He asked.
"I don't know. Haven't you thought of something?"
"Well, I have," Soarin replied, pointing a DVD. "I got a movie I haven't watched yet. Bloody Lura 2: The Revenge."
"Bloody Lura 2: The Revenge? A-Are you sure?"
"What? Don't tell me that Rainbow Danger Dash can't handle a horror movie."
"O-of course I can."
"Then, it is settled. We are watching it." He said and put the DVD into the player.
The movie was about the tale of a former maid in the castle of the two sisters. According to the tale, while Nightmare Moon terrorising the castle Lura the maid lost her beloved friend. After that, Lura made an oath to kill whoever tries to remove her friend's memory. And her soul invaded this place as its eternal dwelling, killing or wounding somepony.
At the first 30 minutes of the movie, Dash tried to hide her fear. Two friends were escaping to the depths of the corridors. Lura was nearing every second and suddenly captured one of them. Dash cringed slightly.
"Hey Dash, scared?" Soarin inquired.
"N-No I'm not. Let's continue."
"OK."
They kept watching for a while, Dash drowned the popcorn more and more. Lura took her victim and began to leave deep scratches on the pony. Her eyes were scarlet, burning with the flames of anger. She was releasing a chalky trail behind. Soon she did her last move and slew him. Turning her head to the other friend.
Rainbow hugged a pillow tightly and gulped. Then, the first half of the movie ended and she let out a sigh. This movie was horribly frightening that she had few visits from Princess Luna. But she was Rainbow Dash, she had a reputation to protect.
Soarin went to the kitchen with the excuse of "refreshing" his snacks. The truth was he quite enjoyed see Rainbow's scared side. And he decided to break her ego by a little prank. He covered himself with some ketchup and flour, later he brought fake vampire teeth.
****
It's been a long time since Soarin left and Rainbow was getting worried. She looked at the kitchen door, there wasn't any sound from him. Abruptly, she heard a whistle around. She couldn't determine the way of it, however; sensed the chills running down through her belly.
Rainbow noticed a silhouette above her, stared at that direction. A simple 'boo' echoed in her ears. There was an upside down head with a pale and bloody face. She immediately threw her pillow and curled.
"BWAHAHAHA! That was amazing." Soarin laughed in tears. "You had to see your face, this will be staying for millenniums!"
However, Dash didn't even respond him. She was busy with attempting to calm herself as Soarin came closer.
"R-Rainbow? Are you OK?" he called her hesitantly.
He spun her around, her eyes were shrunken and her voice was mixing with moans. Dash's tears were uncontrollably rolling down. When Soarin touched her, she shivered. He couldn't bear to see her like this and wrapped his wings around her, caressing her rainbow mane. Dash only dug her face into his chest.
"I'm so sorry Rainbow, I didn't mean to fear you like that."
"I-It's f-f-fine S-Soarin." she answered silently.
And she watched rest of the movie under his warm and safe embrace, burying her head to his neck. Were her friends really right about him?
Piction 4: Ball Annoucement
The sun was nearing the top on the sky, which meant it was noon. The wonderbolts were dying to have a break because they had been working since the dawn. Finally, Spitfire gave the break sign, and they all rushed to the cafeteria. Especially a rainbow mare flew approximately in the rainboom speed. To get a front line in the queue. However, her efforts were useless.
She glanced at the today's menu. There was Broccoli stew(ironically her favourite), omelette and some juice. Dash swiftly glided to a place, hit somepony very hard. When she was about to fall, two hooves caught her gently.
"Be careful next time OK? You'd hurt yourself." a familiar, warm voice said.
She rose head and looked at the pony. It was Soarin, her best friend in the team. While she was about to thank him, her words stuck in her mouth. Rainbow noticed how close they were. That she could count his eyelashes and taste his breath. The heat bloomed on her cheeks. Wow, when was the last time his eyes were that green? They were like bright emeralds. He slowly waved his hoof at her.
"Hey, Dash?"
She shook her and grinned sheepishly. "O-Oh Sorry Soarin. My head was in the clouds."
"It's fine. You really know how to crash but next time I wouldn't be here to clip your wing."
"Haha, so funny mister! Let's grab that meal." Dash replied.
They took their trays and joined the others. There were so many noises in the air, seemed like something important were talked.
"Oh, at last, you guys are here," Spitfire said, showing a paper. "In this letter, it is said that Princesses are organising an event. And we have to attend it."
"What is it Spitsy?" inquired Soarin.
"I don't know yet but the royal advisor sent this letter to arrange our schedule."
One question remained on the minds. What was this event?
****
Twilight had sent an urgent call to all her friends. Rainbow hurriedly went to the castle and entered their hall. Everypony other than her was sitting and waiting for Twilight. She placed herself onto the throne, gazed at them.
"Thanks for coming girls. I received a letter from Princess Celestia." Twilight said and added. "As you know the Hearts' Warming Eve is near. And this year Princess Celestia and Luna decided to bring an old custom back which hasn't done for a millennium."
"What the hay is that?" Applejack asked.
"Well, they are reviving the Ball of Eve. And it will be a masquerade one."
"WAAAHAHA! A masquerade ball!? How exciting and mysterious!" Rarity exclaimed, with an enough voice to break a glass.
"Shoot, Rarity! It is excitin', " Applejack said.
"How nice! I like that type of balls. So many possibilities to hide!" Fluttershy joined the conversation.
"Man, my plans with Tank completely ruined. I don't wanna go!"
"You have to Dash, Princess already sent invitations both me and Spitfire."
Rainbow made her famous "scrunchy" face again and the hall filled with laughter. Then suddenly, Rarity leant to the bottom of her throne and took a box.
"Well darlings, you are so lucky that my portable sewing kit is here!" she told, removing few things from the box. "Now stand up; I shall take your measurements."
She approached Rainbow Dash, then tried to place a meter on her. But, Dash escaped; Rarity attempted again and again.
Rainbow made a flip, zoomed the opposite direction and the marshmallow unicorn missed one more time. While Dash was about to run again, she cast a freezing spell on her. Which, would make her motionless for 15 minutes.
"Thank Celestia! Rainbow dear, What are you supposed to doing!?" Rarity yelled. "I have to finish my newest ball collection immediately."
Dash just puffed her cheeks and groaned. This ball surely was going to be interesting.
Piction 5: Am I not matter to you?
Winter solstice was nearing in Equestria. This year was like the year of winter premieres, first the return news of an ancient ball and now plans for the celebration of the longest night. After Luna's rehabilitation of Nightmare Moon, Celestia had begun to bring back some customs and new events for her sister. To show that she was equally important as her.
The wonderbolts were doing last rehearsals for Luna's first Winter Moon Celebration. They were going to be in the opening of the situation, thrilling the ponies more than ever. It was the end of the day for the wonderbolts. A certain rainbow mare just had a shower, drying herself. Suddenly, she heard a familiar voice.
"Hey, Dash!" he leant to the lockers, a towel on his neck.
"Hey, Clips," Dash replied, placing her uniform.
"Clips? When did that become a thing?" Soarin asked. "Anyway today you had an amazing performance today."
"Thanks. And it became a thing after I crashed you, last lunch."
"Oh, c'mon! I-I was just kidding there Dash. I swear!" he told, a tint of pink on his face.
"Relax Soarin. I'm just pulling your wing." Rainbow grinned. "How does it feel to taste your own medicine?"
"Not a bit funny."
"You know how I felt now mister. Hurry up or Spitfire will kill our flanks!"
****
"D'aww aren't they so cute together?" cooed a mare from the behind of the door.
"They sure are but we should give them a push. They are acting too dumb to notice." another mare replied.
"What's your plan Spitsy?"
"You shall see in the hall Fleet. And don't call me that."
"Aww, I think it really suits you Spits!" Fleetfoot kept saying it. "Spitsy, Fleetsy we are on a ditzy!"
"UGH! Shut it Fleetfoot!" She yelled then noticed hoof steps towards the door.
Spitfire and Fleetfoot swiftly flew to the meeting hall. The team was gathering there to listen to the daily and weekly reports. Spitfire panted and took her place. Whew, this was so near! Soarin and Dash were the last ones to join them. Soon, they started to talk about the topics. Winter solstice, the ball and the new year...
Rainbow tried hard to not to show her boredom. She played with her multicoloured mane, noticed a stare on her. Soarin's two shiny emeralds were focused on her, dreamily. When she looked back, he stuttered and blushed. Why was he doing this anyway? Was something wrong with her? She was about to ask Soarin but, her words interrupted.
"So, Soarin who is your plus one pony for the ball?" Spitfire inquired, out of blue.
"My what?"
"Plus one pony, your date or companion for the occasion. Who are you taking with you?"
"I-I h-haven't decided yet."
"Very well! You are so lucky Soarin. I have a suggestion for you!" Spitfire exclaimed.
"W-who is it?"
"Rainbow Dash of course! You two hang out very much don't you?" she replied. 'Oohs' covered the room.
"I-I don't know what you are talking," Soarin said, his eyes darting around. "Why would I go with her?"
Then, he went to Spitfire's side. Wrapped a wing around her nervously. "When I have a friend like you?"
Rainbow's eyes widened slightly, her vision getting blurry. She let out a small gasp. Was their "friendship" nothing for him? Were everything they enjoyed, they experienced a lie? If he hadn't cared about her then why did he help her? She hadn't got answers any of these. Just something echoed in her mind again and again.
"Why would I go with her?"
****
Girls were hanging out in Sugarcube Corner tonight. Pinkie was preparing to a cake competition with the Cakes and she invited them along to taste their newest cake. Pinkie slid elegantly towards the table, serving the slices. It was her maneuver to surprise the judges.
"Hmm, this cake looks so beautiful darling!" Rarity awed.
"Sure does Rarity. Let's test it out." Applejack responded.
"Of course it is both beautiful inside outside silly!" Pinkie joined them.
Twilight and Fluttershy already were digging in. Rainbow idly played with her slice, didn't involve the atmosphere.
"It's really delicious dear! I have good news for you. Our dresses are completed!" Rarity exclaimed.
"Well, it's wonderful to hear Rarity," Twilight answered.
"Wonderful!? It's marvellous darling; we shall mesmerise the ball!"
Rarity proceeded to argue with Twilight. Dash was lost than ever, still as the sky before the storm. Fluttershy noticed Rainbow and put a hoof on her shoulder.
"Rainbow, are you OK?" she whispered.
"O-oh I'm fine." Dash lied.
"No, you absolutely not. Did something happen?"
"I-I don't know how to phrase it. J-just feeling stabbed back by somepony."
Rarity cut her argument with others and began to listen to Rainbow's conversation. She hadn't spoken since they arrived, Rarity couldn't help but dived in their matter.
"Who had stabbed you back darling?"
"S-Soarin." Dash said quietly. "He said that he wouldn't go to the ball with me! He ignored our friendship."
"Oh, my!" gasped Rarity.
"It was a mistake to think that he cared about me! Why would he anyway? I'm still a disaster for the wonderbolts!"
"Rainbow Dash, dear, there has to be a misunderstanding. You mustn't judge yourself."
"What if there isn't Rares?" responded Dash, unsure.
"Well, in that case, you are going to be the most magnificent mare in the ball!"
Hearts Warming Eve ball here we come!
Piction 6: An Unforgettable Ball
It's been days since the Soarin's rejection. Rainbow and Soarin weren't talking with each other, avoiding more and more. The walls of coldness growing between them. Dash was feeling like somepony else. As if Pinkamena Diane Pie went inside her, took all her rejoice and life energy.
Girls had tried to cheer her up as much as they could, however, their effort was a waste. She didn't even pay attention to everything around her. Finally, Rarity decided to solve in her way, style.
"C'mon Rarity it's ridiculous! How can he recognise me? It's a masquerade ball." Dash whined, sitting on a chair.
"Of course he'll notice you, darling. Let's get to work!" Rarity replied. "If he doesn't that's his fault. Who knows maybe you would meet stallion of your dreams this evening!"
"Oh yeah, keep telling that to yourself." murmured Rainbow.
"Whatever dear. There is the only thing I know; you will be the most dazzling mare in that ball!"
****
Here was the most waited evening, Heart's Warming Eve, the foundation of Equestria and the true friendship. Golden and silver lights were hanging down in Canterlot. Making the whole city gleaming as a second moon in the dark. Spirit of the holiday could be seen everywhere. A chariot of six entered the castle garden.
There were the elements of harmony, alongside with Princess Twilight they headed to the ballroom. Inside the ballroom, every aspect of Equestria was standing. Twilight saw three divine princesses and ran to them. Flurry heart and Shining Armour meeting her.
Rarity and Pinkie were already in a heated chat with their former friend, Saffron Masala. Fluttershy, Applejack and Rainbow were together with the Apple family. After a while, Dash got bored, approached to the foods table. Maybe tasting few things would keep her busy.
The table was very abundant. From the luxurious Canterlot cuisine to Appleloosa's delicious goods were there. But, Rainbow just ate some cupcakes and broccoli stew. Which made her smile little. Then, she flew to the drinks part to end her thirst. She leant her hoof to a glass. When she was about to grab, another force pulled it.
Her hoof was on another hoof! She looked at the owner of it, their eyes locked on each other. His eyes were magnificent, two deep emeralds. His navy blue mane was combed backwards, completing his violet jacket perfectly. He couldn't help but proceed to stare at the mare. Her wavy, multicoloured mane was enchantingly shining under her hoodie, her cheeks were burning slightly.
Soon, they broke their long contact. They exchanged 'Sorries' and grabbed different glasses. While Rainbow was about to move, he stopped her. He picked her glass gently.
"Oh please, let me bring the drinks m'lady. What would you like to have?"
"You don't need to but some cider would be nice."
He walked a little further than where she was, filled the drinks. 'He sure is a gentlecolt' thought Dash. Perhaps Rarity's work was causing this, perhaps fate. She didn't know. However, she wanted to get to know this stallion and this was certain. He came back to her side.
"Here our drinks. Hope you enjoy."
"T-thanks." said Dash, lightly shaking her glass.
"Pretty awesome ball isn't it?"
"Y-yeah very nice." she responded, last bitter events reviving in her brain.
"Hey are you OK?" he said in a concerned tone. "Mind if I accompany you in the rest of the ball?"
"Sure."
They flew to a much more silent, isolated corner of the ballroom. Everypony seemed to have fun; they were dancing or speaking with the princesses. To be honest, Rainbow desired to spend this evening at home, curling on her couch. But she couldn't because first, she was one the protectors of the land and second the wonderbolts received and invitation directly from Princess Celestia. Also, this was their independence day.
"So, what's your name m'lady?" her companion asked.
"You can call me RD. Yours?"
"Well, I'm, I'm... Soren. Yeah! Soren."
"OK, Soren. Nice to meet you."
Well, it was sort of odd. Why did he stutter while saying his name? Furthermore, why couldn't she tell her full name? He was reminding her Soarin. Maybe it was the reason. She attempted to escape from her unnecessary questions.
"So where are you from? I am from Cloudsdale." inquired Soren.
"Same. Although, I'm living in Ponyville now."
"Oh, I heard about it. How is it?"
"Well, usually it's a calm town but we can face with some abnormalities."
"Abnormalities? Why?"
"Everfree forest is near there so, creatures like to run away!" Rainbow snickered.
****
The time was surely passing quickly with Soren. Dash glanced at the clock, it was 11.00 p.m. Which, meant the ball was ending in an hour. Days later the happiness was knocking her door and, Rainbow sensed that her head drifting away from Soarin. Whoever needed him when she had Soren?
They had been trying to get to know each other since the past hour and Soren was indeed a nice stallion. He was witty, smart and handsome. And most prominently he was understanding.
"Haha, You are so entertaining RD!"
"Not as you Sour-Ann. Where did you get those puns?"
"A master never explains his secrets m'lady."
Rainbow just rolled her eyes. "As you wish. 'Master' Sour-Ann,"
"Seriously RD a pony doesn't like your company should be stupid!" Soren said out of blue.
"Where did that come from?"
"Nowhere. I just wanted to say it."
"Thank you, Soren. I wish somepony could get that too," replied Dash, a sad expression emerged on her face.
"RD, what's wrong?" he asked worriedly.
"Well a few days ago, this colt who is my workmate and close friend ditched me in front of everypony. Despite everything we shared." Rainbow's head dropped slightly, her heart clutched in her chest like a plastic.
Soren immediately neared her, lifted her chin slowly. "A stallion who ditches you must be very dumb."
Dash gasped at his words, her cheeks began to burn. Before she could answer, Soren continued his speech.
"Shall we dance milady?"
"I'd love that!"
****
They placed themselves on the dancefloor. A new music started to fill the hall. From the opening lyrics, it was clearly meant for lovers. And now, here Rainbow "so awesome for love" Dash was dancing with a stallion. A stallion forming a wind of change in her.
"Aww look at them, darling! Isn't it like a fairytale?" Rarity inquired.
"Yeah. I'm so glad to see Rainbow like that." Fluttershy replied, giving a small smile.
"Let's leave them be sugarcubes," Applejack said.
****
Soren gazed at her beautiful eyes. They were sparkling as roses at the sunset, getting brighter each second. Why was there a familiar warmth in them? Had they been together in the real life? Her attitudes, her beauty reminded of him somepony he knew.
Rainbow silently giggled at his contagious smile. That smile could melt the snow on mid-January, even the coldness of the Crystal Empire!
Soon, the music died down. Soren and Dash headed to the exit, holding hooves.
"Thanks for the amazing time m'lady."
"Hehe, You're welcome. I better get going my friends are waiting for me."
"O-OK. It's just," he took a small rose from his pocket. "Please accept it as a memory of this night."
"T-thanks for everything Soren." she untangled her ribbon bracelet and handed to him. "If I have a memory you should too."
Dash planted a small kiss on his cheek, wandered as swiftly as she can.
Soren or Soarin really held bracelet, only a thing spinning in his mind.
He was falling to a total stranger.
Piction 7: Could it be you?
Soarin stood in front of everypony, a wave of shock adorning his face. Rainbow Dash had already flown away before he could do something. His team-mates were trying to grasp what happened and, Spitfire glanced harshly.
"Care to explain what were you doing mister?" she asked, her hooves tied to each other.
"H-Hey I was dumbfounded OK?" Soarin defended himself. "I couldn't stop myself when you guys pressured my nerves."
"Your nerves Soarin? You just ditched her right before our eyes!"
"I-I... Yeah..."
"What are you going to do?" Fleetfoot inquired. "I hope you are aware that you wrote your friendship off with her."
"UGH Enough! I just don't know what I can do," he replied dejectedly.
Yes, he had screwed up and, it was way much than any time. He wished that he could take time back, fix his stupid words. Her icy-frozen eyes with shock were still fresh in his mind.
"Well you goofball, all you have to do is to apologise from her!" Spitfire said.
"But how can I make it that easily after all those things!?"
"Of course it won't be easy Soarin. But, if you show her that you are sincere or get her something she may accept you." Fleetfoot replied.
"Fine, I'll do it but, I hope you're right."
****
Soarin attempted to go and talk to her many times after the incident, however, he couldn't find that courage inside. It's been days since the ball and finally, he decided to face with her. He was heading to the lockers, a small saddle bag on his back. When he entered the room, it was nearly empty.
He walked to his own locker, put his saddle bag off. A small spark covered his right eye. Soarin looked at the source of the shine and only found a turquoise gem. It was the bracelet he took from the mysterious mare in the ball. He just grabbed it, examined it closer. The memories of that night igniting vividly.
He was searching Ponyville to find that mare; his efforts didn't give its fruits yet. Soarin placed the bracelet, closed his cabinet. As he rose his head, he noticed Rainbow Dash beside him. She was staring at an unclear, red object in her hooves.
"Rainbow Dash?" he called her.
"W-What?" she snapped out from her trance, setting back the object in her hooves. "Oh, it's you."
"Um hi, how have you been?"
Rainbow just let out a deep sigh and responded. "What do you want Soarin?"
"Dash, have you got some time to talk?"
"No, I will go home if you let me." Dash flapped her wings; he tugged her tail.
"Dash please, I really need to tell you something."
"Sorry, I'm not interested."
"DASH PLEASE!" he yelled and pleaded. "Please accept it for the old times' sake."
"OK. Show me the way."
Dash didn't know that it was a good choice or not but, his voice seemed suffered as much as she did. Although he ruined everything, she gave this chance to him. Because she was the element of loyalty wasn't she?
***
Soarin led them to her favourite cloud to rest. This particular cloud near the Wonderbolts HQ was special to Dash just not because of her naps. It was the place that Soarin and Dash began to hang out as friends. Dash could just guess why he'd selected it.
Soon, they landed on the cloud and watched the beautiful view around. Neither of them dared to speak in the next moments. Soarin broke the silence.
"Thanks for your understanding Dash. You probably guess what I'm gonna say."
"Yeah, I can."
"I-I'm very sorry for the way I behaved you Dash. I-I d-don't know what got over me there. It's just words were flowing from my mouth uncontrollably and, I was a total nervous wreck. I'm aware that I ruined our friendship so bad but, all I can hope is your forgiveness." Soarin poured everything inside, waited for a response.
Rainbow stayed motionless, her head was down. So, he was just nervous and out of control eh? So it was his excuse to express his stupid action. His speech didn't convince her even a bit after all the pain she experienced. And she wasn't going to forget it easily.
"You were just nervous? What kind of silly reason is it? I felt like a trash for days Soarin! For days! I wanted to cry every second you came to my mind however, I couldn't. You were the first real wonderbolt friend of mine, first to help me, first to support. Can you imagine how much does it hurt me? I'm so sorry but, I need time to forgive you."
Soarin's eyes widened to her response. Did a "simple" mistake he'd done injure her that much? He sighed deeply, moved to the corner. She had a point to not accepting his apologies because he sort of cut the loyalty rope between them. And, she was being the embodiment of loyalty was making this rough.
How many minutes passed he couldn't count. He was sure that it was long enough to let his expectations go. At least he tried, at least he didn't fail miserably. Soarin spread his wings to wander off. He was absolutely going to miss his time with Dash.
Suddenly, he sensed a hoof on his. It was Rainbow Dash, a small smile was gracing her features.
"Where do you think you're going goofball?" she asked.
"I assumed that you aren't forgiving me!" he replied.
"I didn't mean that Soarin. I was trying to play hard to get." Dash shook her head. "Oh boy, I wish that you'd be like the stallion I danced at the ball."
"Wait there! Were you at ball!?"
"Well, duh! And I'm so glad to meet a stallion who is wiser and funnier than you!" she poked her tongue slightly.
"Excuse me but I'm right here!" he pouted. "At least the mare I danced was much gentler and more beautiful than you."
Rainbow only frowned and wrapped her hooves around him. She just wanted to celebrate their reunion as friends despite a little anger in her. Devotion wasn't simply standing for something till the end. It was also excusing. He surprised first then returned her embrace. She buried herself in his chest. It was so fluffy as a cloud and warm like cider. They proceeded their position for a really long while.
Soarin raised her chin slowly, gazed at her rosy pools. They were gleaming like roses at the sunset, almost identical to the mare he'd fell at the ball. Rainbow's mane colour was also too similar to her. His heart started to beat rapidly in his ribs. Could she be her?
Rainbow felt like she was melting by the tempting smile on his face. It was as warm as Celestia's sun and familiar to the stallion she danced with. Soarin's eyes were also profound and emerald like him. She couldn't help but wonder could Soarin be Soren?
After what it seemed like centuries, they leant in unconsciously. Their eyelids were half closed. They kept leaning until there were inches between them. Their muzzles touched instantly.
However, their intense connection didn't last too long. Beneath them, they heard cheers of their team and parted quickly. With huge blushes covering their face.
There was one thing certain and this moment shall remain as a legend among wonderbolts...
Piction 8: Beyond Our Hearts
It's been nearly a week since their reunion as friends. Soarin was really glad that he could save his flank, and she could forgive him. Even though, he was acting like a total goofball. He sighed, watched Dash beside him. She was still playing with the red object. He didn't know what it is but it seemed special for her. As that bracelet was special for him.
Soarin couldn't help but wonder why was it so peculiar for her. Because whenever she observed it, her beautiful eyes were fogging with pain. He had to do something about it. He had to learn the reason of it. Soarin placed a hoof on her shoulder.
"Dash, are you alright?" he asked.
"Oh, w-what?" Rainbow snapped out of her trance. "Y-Yes, I'm fine."
"Are you sure? It's the billionth time I'm catching you this week."
"Yeah I'm 100% sure Soarin. Everything is fine!" she replied with a clear anger in her tone.
"OK, Dash. If you need to talk, I'll be here."
Soarin decided to leave her be. Whatever she was going through it was frankly hard for her. As he was preparing to leave, he noticed something. The red object in her hooves, it was a rose! And it wasn't an ordinary one, it was the same rose he'd given in the ball! Could Dash really be her?
****
After that moment, Soarin's mind overflowed with so many questions. How had she gained that rose? Did he really fall in love with his best friend? Or everything was nothing but a coincidence? He didn't know how to respond them and it was the worst of all.
He had a feeling that both Dash's problem and this mystery were connected. Well, Dash claimed that she was on the ball and she received the flower. And he was there too. If he shows this bracelet to her, he might get a clue to find his mare. Even he can get nothing, his heart would be ease.
He took the bracelet and went to Dash's side again. The cold sweat was covering him, sending chills to his body as frostbites. Soarin gulped difficultly.
"H-Hey Dash!"
"Um, hi Soarin?"
"I-I just wanted to check on you," Soarin said, squeezing the bracelet. "And I have to ask you something."
"Go on."
"Well... the thing is... Do you know anything about this?" he inquired, pointing the item in his hooves.
Rainbow gasped as she recognised her own bracelet. Why was it with Soarin? And how did he earn it? She just replied to him.
"I-I know." her tone was barely a whisper. "It's... It's mine."
Soarin dropped the bracelet instantly, gazing at her with a shock. She was her; she was the mare he'd been searching hopelessly; she was the mare he loved. He kept his position till Rainbow approached to him. She was holding his rose.
"Does that belong to you?" inquired Dash expectantly, hoping he would say 'Yes.'
"Y-Yes,"
"Ugh! I should've known in the first place!" Rainbow face hoofed. "Soren and Soarin were similar!"
"Look who is saying that! R.D. such a creative name!"
"At least I didn't refer myself as an idiot."
"Shut up!"
They turned around, attempted to grasp the new information. All these times it was them and they were too busy with seeking somepony else. Soarin groaned slightly, his cheeks were pink. He couldn't still believe that he ditched his BFF and hung out with her again in the ball. Despite that, he felt his chest filled with a comforting warmth. He was glad it was her.
Soon he grabbed her both front hooves, kissed them lightly. Dash shrieked; her face was rosy as her eyes. A small smile formed on her lips.
"I'm so grateful you're my lady. I wouldn't imagine if it was a stranger."
"Is that so?" Rainbow raised an eyebrow and admitted. "I agree with you Soarin. I wouldn't want to like somepony else other than you."
"Wait! Did you say you like me?"
"Mayybe."
"OK," he smirked, determination flashed on his face. "I'll tell my uncertain feelings then, I... love... you!"
"W-What!?"
"I love you silly mare!"
He crashed his forehead with hers, stared at the sunset roses he admired. They were even brighter now as if Luna's stars joined the sunset in her pools. She closed them slowly, a warm smile graced her features. Later, he did the same. They stayed like this for a long while. Without any doubt and care. There were only them at the moment; there were just senses.
Soarin broke their contact, leant in deeper. He gingerly brushed her lips, savouring the taste of them. Dash jolted firstly, however, got used to it in a few seconds. They moved their hooves towards manes of each other, sweetly caressing. He wrapped his wings around her as she placed her empty hoof on his neck. His lips were much better than she guessed. They were just so silky.
After minutes like centuries, they finally found oxygen. His wings were still embracing her, and they had very big blushes on their faces. "Do you remember that I said I like you? I think I'm mistaken now. Cause I love you." she whispered softly to him. He only planted s kiss on her forehead.
As the night was spreading all over Equestria, something stood up the most.
Love was beyond our hearts.
Fin.