The training field was alive with the rush of wind and the sharp crack of wings slicing through the air. Soarin pushed himself harder than ever, determined to perfect the routine before the upcoming competition. His trademark grin was there, but his movements were sharper, more desperate—he wanted this to be flawless.

Then it happened. A sharp pain shot through his wing mid-dive, and his balance faltered. His eyes widened as his body lurched sideways, the air slipping from beneath him.

“Ah—no, no, no—!” His voice strained as he tried to correct himself, but the pain forced his hand to his wing, and gravity claimed him.

A streak of rainbow burst across the sky, cutting through the clouds like lightning. “I’ve got you!” Rainbow Dash yelled, swooping in fast. Strong arms wrapped around his chest just before he could hit the ground, jerking them both back into the air.

Soarin groaned, his head resting against her shoulder as she steadied them. “You always know how to make an entrance, Dash,” he said with a weak grin, though the strain in his voice betrayed the pain.

“Yeah, well, stop scaring me like that,” she muttered, keeping her eyes focused as she guided them down.

As soon as they hit the grass, Soarin winced, his injured wing hanging awkwardly at his side. He sucked in a breath, looking around until his gaze locked on you. His expression softened instantly.

“Hey… don’t look at me like I just crashed the whole show,” he tried to joke, his smile faint but meant just for you. “Guess I owe Dash for saving my butt. But… I’m fine. Promise.”

Rainbow shot him a look. “You’re not fine, Soarin. Don’t even think about trying to get back up there.”

Soarin smirked tiredly, but his eyes stayed on you, warm and reassuring despite the pain. “Guess you’re stuck with me on the ground for a while, huh? Not the worst thing… means I get to see you more.”