Chapters Part 1- The Cutie Mark Consoler
The Final Crusade
The Cutie Mark Consoler
Today's summer day was like any other summer day in Ponyvile. The Summer Sun Celebration had already happen so the ponies were just enjoying their day. Mares gossiping on who is the best stallions, businesses were flourishing and the pegasus with the derped eyes was just hanging and not breaking anything for once. Nope, the only bad thing that was happening at Ponyvile was that Twilight's new crystal castle still sticks out like a sore thumb.
Everyone was enjoying their summer... except for the foals of Miss Cheerilee's class as they still have to go to school. However, not one of them was upset because starting next week, they can spend as much summer fun as they want until autumn.
~~~
As we enter the school house... through the window, all of the children was talking as much as they can before their teacher that they love, Cheerilee, arrives. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were laughing like witches as they decide on who they will torment during the summer while the Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were looking at them in disapproval. After a brief exchange of angry stares that could spark an all out war, they ignore each other as the little Crusaders plan for their next Cutie Mark getting Crusade.
But the real highlight before the teacher arrives was Snip and Snails who was telling everybody around them about how they are going to do during the summer. Not only no pony believe them, but they were left with confusing and baffled looks. But who could blame them. Snips promised that him and Snails will enter Twilight's new palace, become celebrities and find a legendary creature that haven't been seen in over a 1000 years. F.Y.I for the readers, Trixie had hired them as back stage interns and they were repeating what Trixie had promise them.
As the little ponies was all discussing their plans for the near future, Cheerilee were quietly watching them from behind the door. No matter how much happiness she try to express on her face, it did nothing to impede the sorrow that grew in her stomach and leaked through her eyes as she knows that soon, SOON , this might be the last time she could get to see them this happy.
"Ok Now My Little Ponies!" said Cheerilee as she entered the room and grabbed the attention of her students. "I know how excited you are but school haven't finish just yet"
As Cheerilee was reaching the side of her desk, the foals quickly disperse and find their seats. Although it wasn't much of a problem, some of the seats had some foals sitting across the room away from their friends.
Once everyone quickly moved to their seats, Cheerilee said "I know how much you want summer vacation would start already, but we still have a whole week of fun activities to get through." Once she said "fun activities", some of the students became intrigued and couldn't help to make some little noise.
"Now hold on" said Cheerilee before their imagination took them away. "I know I said activities, but we aren't just going to have fun and games. Starting next semester, we are going to the next stage of your education and that will going to prepare you for the new trials in your life's."
As she move side to side of the classroom, Cheerilee explained: "The activates will help test the talents that you have and set you on the path to fulfil your life dreams. And don't worry, I made sure there still be room for fun"
As everyone became eager for these activates, it stopped however when Diamond Tiara raised her hand. The grin on her face which only the crusaders know it was sinister intent made it all the worrying.
"Yes Diamond Tiara!" asked Cheerilee like any other teacher would.
"But Miss Cheerilee, what about the students who doesn't know what their true talents are yet?" asked by Diamond as she move her view towards the CMC. "What about the students who haven't got their cutie marks".
Ok, now normally, this wouldn't amount to much aside from a small and pointless jab at the CMC. But however, this was difference. As Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle look around the classroom, they and Scootaloo were the only ones without cutie marks . I there were any blank-flanks left in the show, they are all gone now in this story. While Diamond Tiara didn't made the class laugh at the crusaders, it made them do something arguably even worse: it made them pity them. Everyone just feels sorry and pity for them and while nothing was wrong with that, it push the crusaders down that made them feel ashamed.
As Cheerilee wiped any thought of Diamond Tiara was trying to be mean (but she was), she already have a prepared answer for the question.
"Don't worry Diamond Tiara. I have something extra special activity planned for the Cutie Mark Crusaders" replied Cheerilee which surprised everyone. "I never let my students feel down when it's near summer vacation."
"While some-ponies would find their cutie marks really easily, others will find it a really hard time". Normally, Diamond and Silver would look at the CMC because of the comparison, until Cheerilee added: "That's when special ponies with a very special job comes in: a Cutie Mark Consoler". She explains: "A Cutie Mark Consoler are ponies who help find the hidden talent within others and help them find it"
Cheerilee then walked up to the desk of Apple Bloom and pronounces: "Don't worry Cutie Mark Crusaders! You'll get your marks before you finish my class"
~~~
Hours later, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were waiting in an empty classroom for their Cutie Mark Consoler to arrive. Cheerilee wanted to wait with them, but she can't leave the other students unsupervised during the other activities. While Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle had some reserve in all of this, Apple Bloom has eager for this pony and keep on checking the window so she can see him.
Apple Bloom jump to her friends and shouted: "Can't You Believe It! We are finally getting our cutie marks!"
"Yeah, but Apple Bloom..." said Scootaloo with a concerned look. "...doesn't it just seem really weird?"
"What do you mean?" asked a puzzled Apple Bloom
"Well... We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Doesn't it seem like we failed if we weren't the ones to get our own cutie marks" explained Scootaloo.
Sweetie Belle added "I'm more concerned how a pony who never been to Ponyvile or know us and instantly find our cutie marks when we've been trying to find ours for way over a year now."
"Aw Come On! I thought the Crusaders are about getting cutie marks. Not how we get them" Apple Bloom argued. "An' besides, remember all those times when we have to learn about accepting help"
"Don't you remind me" respond Sweetie as she remembers a bad memory. "Wait, didn't your sister also learn that" she added.
Ignoring the question (or didn't heard it), Apple Bloom told them: "While it is a little weird that some-pony else is finding our cutie mark for us, I still want all of us to be together when we finally get them."
This somehow made both Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo a little more accepting of getting the consoler's help. Apple Bloom then went over and reached into her saddle bag and brought out her Crusader's cape. Knowing what she had in mind, the other crusaders grabbed their capes and they all put them on and yell:
"CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS FOREVER!"
Once the girls had a laugh, Sweetie Belle then asked: "You want to know what else I'm curious about... How would a "cutie mark finding" cutie mark would look like?"
"I don't know? Maybe something like our Cutie Mark Crusader's logo" replied Scootaloo. And as soon as she said that, all three of them gasp and gotten taken over by their fantasies.
"Imagine if our real talents were finding cutie marks" shouted Sweetie Belle as she jump onto a table.
"Maybe we become Cutie Mark Consolers" suggested by Apple Bloom as she jump up towards Sweetie.
And last but not least, Scootaloo who mimic her friends and added "And maybe we help other ponies find their cutie marks."
Then all three of them shouted: "CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS Consolers!"
"I hardly doubt it" said by a unrecognizing voice that despite not being loud, through the Crusader's off their balance and fall to the grounds.
As they pick themselves up, the strange new voice then says "And would you please stop shouting. It's so childish !"
And once the Cutie Mark Crusaders finally stood up and see this pony, they instantly recognize that is pony is their 'Consoler. And who does this pony look like? He looks like John De Lancie Pony .
Part 2- Cutie Mark Mentors
The Final Crusade
Cutie Mark Mentors
Previously On The Final Crusade
Everybody at Ponyvile was enjoying their summer and everything was fine except for the kids who still have to go to school and Twilight crystal castle which was still an eyesore. When Cheerilee announces what they are going to do before school finishes with activates to help prepare their talents, Diamond Tiara decides to act like a bitch by pointing out the Crusaders doesn't know their talents (except the audience doesn't know your talent you little witch). However, Cheerilee manage to shut the bitch up for once and says that she ordered a special Cutie Mark Consoler to help the Crusaders to find their destinies. So now the Consoler arrived and Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo was left in nervous anticipation to what fate has in store for them.
And Now, The Story
~~~
Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo was astonish and surprised once they see that their Cutie Mark Consoler has arrived. He looked just like what the girls imagined when they heard the word consoler. A nifty blazer and bow tie that made him look like a collage professor and the white hairs on his mane, tail and well kept beard leaves the impression that he has years of experience (which maybe true). The CMC was especially amazed by his cutie mark which was a certificate that boost their fascination on the guy.
As the little girls was left star struck, the brown unicorn properly entered their classroom and says: "Oh come now, please close your mouths before you eat a ladybug."
Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo snapped out of their daze and felt a little embarrass by it. "Sorry mister" apologized Apple Bloom. "We were Just excited Because We Finally Getting OUR!..."
"Uh Uh Uh!" interrupted the consoler. "Learn to control your voice indoors! Shouting is what children do"
"Uh!? Sorry?" apologized Apple Bloom and was confused because she doesn't know if she was insulted or not.
As the consoler walk around them, making all of them nervous, he told them: "Don't worry about it, it understandable. Little foals are still balls of kind joy but doesn't know any better"
"But!..." he shouted as he stomp his hoof in front of the girls and in front of the classroom. "...I can tell that you don't want to be mere children anymore!"
"Yeah" said Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo in unison.
"You want to be full grown mares who knows what to do!" proclaimed the consolers as he stand tall.
"Yeah!" said the Crusaders as they are felling pumped.
"...And you can no longer stand mindlessly searching for the cutie marks that you so rightfully deserve!" he said as he close his eyes and raise his hoof to his face trying to be cool.
"YEAH!" shouted the Crusaders as they becoming excited
"But Fear Not!..." proclaimed the consoler as he stomp his hoof again and shoot out his fearless stair. "For I, Sir Fine Marks, Have Never Let Down A Filly On Finding Their... DESTINIES!!!"
"YEAH!!!" screamed the Cutie Mark Crusaders as they jump up and exploded in excitement and joy as their dreams are finally coming true.
Unfortunately, to ruin the mood, Sir Marks (and it's SIR Mark. If you call him Mr and you will get a scolding) use his magic to hold Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo in place and hold their mouths shut. As he lifting them down, he says: "Uh Uh Uh! No shouting. Don't be childish"
"Sorry. I guess we were getting away with ourselves" apologized Sweetie Belle. And they realize that all they been doing was apologizing since he got there.
~~~
Once everyone was settle down, Sir Marks beginning his find on their cutie marks
"Now, before we start on finding your marks, I must know who I have to work with"
The girls look at each other with excitement as they know it's their time to shine.
Apple Bloom was first. "My name is Apple Bloom and I'm a proud Apple"
"Your an Apple?..." interrupted Sir Marks as if he was trying to make a joke but was genuine confused.
"*giggle* No! My Family are famous apple farmers and we're spread across Equestria"
"Oh yeah..." whispered Sir Marks to himself in realization. "...The Apple Family. The Apple Family is one of the most influential families in Equestria"
As Sweetie Belle was about to begin her introduction, Sir Marks began thinking to himself out laud. "...But then, why is it so heard for her to hind her cutie mark? It's so easy. Maybe her talent is better for a different avenue that would help her family to..."
"Um! Excuse me!" said Sweetie as she try to get his attention.
"UH UH! Don't interrupt someone when he.. is... talking to... Oh!" responded Sir Marks as he realize what he's doing. After feeling embarrass, he clear his throat and says "Ahem! As you were saying young lady"
"Oh! Um! My name is Sweetie Belle and I... Um?" Stammered Sweetie as she was trying to think of a follow up. "Oh! And I look up to my big sister Rarity a lot and want to be as great of a pony as her!"
"Well that's great Sweetie, but I need to know what you do , not what you like " replied Sir Marks
"Oh! UM?..." said Sweetie as she was at a lost.
"Oh come on Sweetie" interrupted Apple Bloom. "What about all those times where you help us out?"
"Yeah!" said Scootaloo. "What about that time where you planed that play, help us to get popular and you have a not bad singing voice"
"Yeah, but every time I take charge, it blows up in our faces." objected Sweetie Belle. "And besides, I don't want to be a singer" she added as she look away.
"You don't want to be a...!? But you...!!" said Apple Bloom as she became shocked. She was about to continue, but Sir Marks stop her.
"Don't worry Apple Bloom. I can start off from there. Now... What about you, my little pegasus?"
"What!" surprised Scootaloo. Unlike Sweetie Belle, she knows what she wanted to say.
"Well I'm Scootaloo and I'm Rainbow Dash's Biggest Fan!"
"Rainbow Dash! You mean that pony who won the Young Flyers Competition with the legendary Sonic Rainboom ! AND... also an Equestrian Games medallist!" said Sir Marks and act like he was intrigued
"Yeah! She's the greatest!"
"So I'm guessing you want to be a great athlete pony just like your idol?" asked Sir Marks
"Well Yeah!..." replied Scootaloo... until she began to think on the question. "I mean... I want to"
"You... WANT to!?!" replied Sir Marks as he became confused
Even though it was really embarrassing for, but she made peace with it enough to admit it to people, um... ponies.
"Well... I can't fly" admitted Scootaloo
"YOU CAN'T FLY!?!?!" shouted Sir Marks. "But All Pegasi Are Meant To Fly!?! The only pegasi who doesn't fly are BABY PEGASI?
As Sir Mark's look at her with a mix of anger, confusion and disappointment, Scootaloo and her friends panic to think of something to get her on his good side. Suddenly, Apple Bloom point Sweetie Belle towards something and she point Scootaloo towards her bag.
"Oh Yeah!" Shouted Scootaloo as she realized what to do. She rush to her bag and pull out her scooter. "I'm really good on my scooter!"
Sir Marks calmed down and slowly examine Scootaloo with her scooter. He took a extra close look at her pegasus wings and her scooter and more he look, more intrigue began to paint across his.
Then suddenly, he spotted the Crusader Cape in Scootaloo bag and he really become intrigued. He picked it up and ask: "What is this?"
"That's my Crusader Cape" happily replied Scootaloo. Just then, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle was hit with inspiration and rush to get their capes. Scootaloo grab her cape back from Sir Marks and rush to her friends. "Yeah, because we are...
"The Cutie Mark Crusaders!" announce all of them, laud and proud.
Despite being hit by the laud noise, Sir Mark was more concerned on "What are they talking about?"
"Oh! I get it!" claimed Sir Marks as he thinks he know what they are on about. "I bet it's the name for you super hero team where you protect your town from dangerous monsters and pretend to be princesses"
"What! No!" responded Apple Bloom and all the Crusaders look concerned. Sir Marks was confused and amazed that he was wrong and waited for the answer to be given to him. Apple Bloom explains: "The Cute Mark Crusaders are about use and helping other ponies in finding their cutie marks"
Sir Marks was left baffled. However, he quickly regained himself and responded: "Don't Be Childish! That sounds almost like my job, and my job is serious business !"
Offended, Scootaloo replied for the Crusaders: "But we were serious about it!"
"OH Really !" replied Sir Marks. "Then you must know where cutie marks Came from "
However, this did not intimidate the Crusaders. in fact, they were prepare for it. As they were about to tell him where cutie marks came from, the scene changed to the picture book style that began the first episode of the show.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _
Once upon a time, way before the reign of Celestia and Luna, ponies where left in confusion as they don't know what to do. They didn't know what their talents were or what they suppose to do with them and no pony didn't know what other ponies talents were ether.
Then one day, this little filly called that was called "The Little Cutie" decided to be a painter because she like to point. To show ponies that she was a painter, she painted a mark on herself to prove it. When ponies saw the mark, they want one just like it. However, the Little Cutie doesn't want to give the same mark because they weren't painters. So instead, she find out what talents other ponies have and painted a unique mark for each one of them. Eventually, Everypony in Equestria wanted one and the Little Cutie painted on every single one of them. Then suddenly, the paint become magically and ponies instantly gets one of the "Cutie's marks" once they find themselves.
Some say the Little Cutie is still around today, as a spirit, leaving her mark on every pony that she can
_ _ _ _ _ _ _
"And that's where cutie marks come from" proclaim the Cutie Mark Crusaders once they finish their story. Sir Marks wasn't fascinated, as he heard the story before, but he was impress that they know it. Sweetie Belle then added: "And that also where we got our Crusader's logo". As he examine the logo on Sweetie's cape when she pass it towards him, she explains: "When we found that story at the library, we thought having what we think what the Little Cutie looked like as our logo. For Good Luck!"
Once Sir Marks finish listening and hand Sweetie's cape back to her, he says: "Wow! All of that was absolutely right..." As the CMC was having their biggest, proudest grins, Sir Marks ruin the mood again and proclaims: "... Unfortunately, it is completely fake"
He explains: ""The Little Cutie" is an old mare's tale. It's like the headless horse, the olden pony or changelings"
Annoyed as their childhood icon is being smashed, Scootaloo argued "What about the Sonic Rainboom? Ponies didn't believe in it until Rainbow Dash did it"
"Ah! But you see, my dear Scootaloo, the Sonic Rainboom is a talent that only Rainbow Dash, and only Rainbow Dash could do. I haven't heard of any other pony in history did one besides her."
Still upset, Sweetie Belle demanded: "Well... Where do cutie marks came from then?"
"You see Sweetie..." replied Sir Marks. "ponies always had have cutie marks. It's imbedded in our DNA. The tale of the Little Cutie was made because ponies always want a "magical explanation" for everything".
The girls became confused, then slowly become depress when something that they believe in so long wasn't real. It's like being told Santa Clause isn't real.
However, to lift their spirits, Sir Marks proclaims: "Don't worry my little ponies, today is the day to leave such childish stories behind and move on away them... to find your cutie marks!" Once he said "cutie marks" their worries were quickly fadded and finally become excited again. But to ruin the mood, YET AGAIN, Sir Marks interrupt their excitement and says: "...But that have to wait until tomorrow."
As the girls recover from the rip-lash, Apple Bloom asked "Why!?!"
"You see Apple Bloom, I need to continue investigating what your cutie marks might be" replied Sir Marks. "I have to ask other ponies about you and other stuff that you did. I then also set up the arraignments so you can actually get your cutie marks." Then, as he was moving towards the exit, he then proclaims: "But don't worry little childish Crusaders. I sware, by the time your summer vacation starts, YOU WILL HAVE YOUR CUTIE MAKRS!" Then he leaves the room, very dramatically.
Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo was left in the empty classroom, awe struck. As the sound of Sir Marks promise running through their minds, the joy stored in their chests can no longer be contained so they jump up and screamed "YAY!!" as laud as they can. Unfortunately, it quickly when Sir Marks returned to the room to say "Uh Uh Uh! No shouting!" that quickly destroy the mood.
~~~
The next day, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom was heading towards school with both nervousness and excitement.
"So what do you think of the consoler yesterday?" ask Apple Bloom who was the most optimistic of the three.
"I don't know?" replied Sweetie Belle. "He seems really nice... and really weird"
"Yeah!" agreed Apple Bloom. "Maybe that how you suppose to act if you are a Cutie Mark Consoler?"
"Maybe? Yesterday, Mr Marks came around my house during dinner to ask my parents and Rarity some questions" said Sweetie. Then she added: "you know, I'm having a hard to remembering if he even apologized for it"
"Really!?!" responded Apple Bloom. "I think he came around to the farm yesterday as well. Granny Smith said some pony that she thinks was the government came over and asked her some questions"
As they continue walking, trying to form an opinion on the guy, Scootaloo says to everyone: "I can't believe the Little Cutie doesn't exist."
"WHAT!" Shouted a voice from behind them. Unfortunately, the Crusaders recognize the voice and didn't want to believe it. But when they look around, their horrors were true as they see Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Then Silver Spoon shouted: "What do you mean the Little Cutie doesn't exist?"
DT and SS move up closer towards them and Diamond say: "Whoever doesn't believe in the Little Cutie is stupid because how else does cutie marks exist?"
Scootaloo reluctantly replied: "Well the consoler says that cutie mark were built into our DNA"
"What!" replied Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Normally, one would expect them to laugh, but the two acted like they were offended.
"I thought this was a chance to get your cutie marks and you finally stop becoming annoying, but now I see you are totally hopeless" proclaimed Diamond as she walk pass the CMC.
Any opinion they have towards Sir Marks in the Crusader's mind must be push aside as they don't want to be push down by them a second time this week.
"Well, Mr Marks is a professional so he knows what he's talking and he says that he never failed in finding cutie marks" said Apple Bloom.
"I doubt it" replied Diamond
"He promise that we will got our cutie marks before the end of the week" Said Sweetie Belle
"Well who would make a bet on that" replied Silver Spoon who move up against Diamond Tiara
"Well We Bet!" Shouted Scootaloo as she let the emotions get the better of her
Just then, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon was hit with inspiration as they look at each other with sinister intention
At that moment, the Crusaders realized that they dug their own graves. Thinking that they can't back out, Scootaloo sheepishly answered: "Yes... We... We Do Bet!"
"So what do want" said Silver Spoon faster then the CMC could realize what she said
"What?" replied Apple Bloom
"If you win the bet, what do you want?" explained Diamond Tiara.
Even though they shouldn't, they look at each other and decide to seize on this opportunity.
Apple Bloom decided for the CMC: "...We want you to leave us alone"
"Ok" replied Diamond Tiara, thinking she know what they mean.
However, Apple Bloom shot up to her face and says: "And when we say "leave us alone", we mean: not to be mean to us, not call us blank-flanks or any other names, don't try to bully us in any other way and don't even talk to us!"
"Ok!" groaned Diamond Tiara, finally thinking it's over. However...
"And don't even talk about us with any other ponies" added Sweetie Belle
"OK!!!" shouted Diamond Tiara, wanting it to be over. But now, it's finally their turn
"But if we win, not only can we call you whatever we want..." said Diamond Tiara
"And do whatever we want" added Silver Spoon.
"But you must also be our..."
"SLAVES!" shouted Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon in unison
"What!" shouted the CMC in surprise
"You have to do our homework" said Diamond Tiara
"... and clean our clothes" followed Silver Spoon
"polish our hooves" DT
"...and our jewellery" SS
"Do our chores" DT
"Buy us stuff" SS
"And do it all without complaints" stated Diamond Tiara thinking that was everything that she wanted
"And you have to wear maid outfits" added unexpectedly by Silver Spoon. When Diamond look at her funny, she replied: "What?"
The CMC is now full of dread because now that they realize that not only did they dug their own graves, but also put themselves in their coffins and buried alive. Everyone look at Sweetie, hoping that she have an escape plan. She look at DT and SS and stated: "Make it just for the summer and loose the maid outfits and we have a deal".
After a second to think, Diamond answered: "Deal". But Silver did not like that and shouted: "Hay!"
The two then start leave the CMC behind, but not before Diamond yell to them: " See You In The Summer!" Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo was just standing where they were, feeling like they were the most stupid ponies in the world.
~~~
The Cutie Mark Crusaders was finally reaching the school house before they begin talking about their stupid bet.
"I can't believe we let ourselves be trick into that stupid bet" said Apple Bloom to begin the conversation. Then, almost accusing Sweetie Belle: "Why didn't you back us out of the bet Sweetie"
"Hay! I wasn't the one who begin talking about the terms" retorted Sweetie, beginning to be angry
"STOP!" yelled Scootaloo, not wanting her friends to fight. "I was the one who gave the idea to them to begin with"
Felling upset, Sweetie Belle told her: "Don't worry about it. We should have just said no"
"And we just let them think we're fools who can't get their cutie marks" retorted Apple Bloom
"Oh Who Cares About Cutie Marks!" yell Scootaloo. "How do we know if Mr Marks can find our cutie marks!?!"
Just then, almost being ironic, Sir Marks burst out of the school door just as they were about enter and yelled: "I HAVE FOUND YOU YOUR CUTIE MARKS!" The CMC yelled: "WHAT!", but then gotten hushed for being laud.
He explains: "I have spend all night talking with everypony in this town, finding out everything that you did in the Past... TWO... YEARS! And then I call everypony that I know so I can get everything Just Right!" As the girls was getting scared and becoming concerned for his health, Sir Mark added with a sigh of relief: "*SIGH*... Refreshing after a night of hard work!"
Sir Marks then stood over an intimidated Scootaloo, who told her: "How would you feel if I told you that you are going to learn how to SOUR THROUGH THE SKIES!"
"What!" said a surprised Scootaloo. "You are going to teach to me how to fly?!"
"What! No! Don't be childish! How can a unicorn teach a pegasus how to fly?" replied Sir Mark. He have her look to the clouds and explained: "I have arranged it so you can be instructed by one of the greatest flight instructors in one of Cloudsdale's greatest flight academies."
As Scootaloo becoming excited as her life long dream come true, Apple Bloom asked the obvious question of: "Hang on! How does Scootaloo learning how to fly gets her hers cutie mark?"
"Don't worry about it. It's all part of the plan." he replied. But then he got up to Scootaloo ear and whispered to her "Just don't forget to bring your scooter"
"OK!" replied Scootaloo, despite not knowing why
Sir Mark then moves towards Apple Bloom who then become scared. "Now, Apple Bloom..." he start off with. "Finding your talent was a lot harder than I had anticipated. But I am 100% confident on the job that I have picked for you." As Apple Bloom was waiting in anticipation, she was left in awe struck when Sir Mark announces: "...construction worker"
"What!" shocked Apple Bloom.
He explains: "I have it arrange with your family for you to meet up one of your distant uncles at Appleloosa so you can learn the hard but respectable job of construction. Not only will you learn how to build houses with any materials, but also furniture and any other stuff you can set your mind to."
Silence filled the air as Apple Bloom was left to think. The deeper and deeper that she thinks, lauder she is as she talk to herself as she begin to move around. "Construction, construction... building... making... wood...". She look up Sir Marks and ask: "Do it have to be buildings?"
Sir Marks chuck up a hoof and replied: "You can make WHATEVER You want!"
After leaving her to think again, her voice raise higher and says: "Yeah... Yeah! Ok! I give it a shot"
"EXCELENT!!" he shouted as Sir Marks was please with himself. He then turn to Sweetie Belle who was waiting patiently. After how happy Scootaloo and Apple Bloom were, she was actually excited on what he had in store for her.
"Now Sweetie... the mentor I had intended for you was the hardest to get a hold of..." said Sir Marks as he was building suspense.
"Mentor?" Sweetie ask in confusion
"Yes, Mentors" he proclaims as he look at the confused fillies around him. He explains: "Ponies who are masters in their professions and help you to find the skills inside of you"
"So you aren't actually help to get you cutie mark?" ask Apple Bloom
"But I am helping you, Apple Bloom!" replied Sir Marks. "I'm just pointing you towards the right direction"
He then return his gaze towards Sweetie Belle and told her: "And your mentor is also the most famous in her field." As he was getting closer to say her mentor is, Sweetie Belle was getting more and more excited and almost about to loose herself.
"I assigned you..."
Excitement overload...
"Sapphire Shore!"
"What!" yelled Sweetie Belle as she begin hearing her music in her head.
As Apple Bloom and Scootaloo was so jealous for their friend and Sir Marks were left impress in what he did. But all of that disappeared when Sweetie Belle replied in a blank tone: "I don't want her"
"What!" replied everyone.
"But Sweetie Belle, it's Sapphire SHORE!" argued Scootaloo as she try to get to her senses.
"Stop Being CHILDISH! Sweetie!" said Sir Marks angrily. "Do you know how many strings I have to pull to get her be your mentor for a week"
"I'm Sorry!" apologized Sweetie Belle. "But I can't sing"
"What! But you sing all the time!" rebutted Scootaloo
"Yeah... But..." said Sweetie as she try to argue back.
"No Buts!" Sir Marks proclaims. "I have already arrange the traveling expenses already for all of you"
Then suddenly, once everyone heard what he said, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo look at him in worry and confusion and ask: "What!?"
He explains: "I already settled your traveling arrangements so you can meet up with you respected mentor at their cities". As he stair at their expressions, he was left to ask: "What?"
"Well... You see..." said Apple Bloom. "We thought that when we get our cutie marks, we thought that we would... gonna get them... together"
"What! Don't be childish!" said Sir Marks as is he was offended. "Ponies can't have the same cutie marks"
As the girls began to look worry to each other, he further exposits: "You'll set off early tomorrow. So unless you want to remain children and DON'T get your cutie marks, I recommend that today that you start packing and plan on what you gonna to do".
He then left the little crusaders, nevus and confused. Even though they are gonna accomplish on what they wanted to do for so long, but they won't accomplish it the way that they wanted.
Part 3- Cutie Mark Trials
The Final Crusade
Cutie Mark Trials
Previously On The Final Crusade
Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle was finally introduce to their Cutie Mark Consoler... who acts a bit of an hypocrite. However, he did vow that he will get them their cutie marks and spend all night trying to finding them. The next day, the little angels made a stupid bet with a pair devils on whether or not if their consoler do what he say he do. Then he did what he said he do; he found a way to get them their cutie marks... without him doing it himself. And he had them separated all across Equestria, destroying their dream on them getting their cutie marks together
And Now, The Story
~~~
It was early morning in the day of Ponyvile, where ponies are getting out of their homes and shops were preparing to open. And in the plaza outside the train station is Scootaloo who was waited patiently for her friends. She had also brought along he scooter which Sir Marks requested for her. She would carry her scooter to the ends of Equestria even if Sir Marks hadn't ask her to.
As she was waiting, she was remembering yesterday as Sir Marks told them that they won't get their cutie marks together. No matter how hard she would like to deny it, she knows that her and her friends can't get their cutie marks at the same time. But at least she want her friends to be their when she gets hers and be there for them. She also remembers the sad faces of Apple Bloom's and Sweetie Belle's after Sir Marks told them that he would be separating them. Even though she doesn't know the deal with Sweetie Belle not wanting to be a singer, she could feel that she would wanted he friends to support her.
As Scootaloo was about beat herself up for not trying something else yesterday, she was snapped out of it when she heard a happy cry out for her name.
"Hay! Scootaloo!! " cry out a voice with a hint of an southern accent.
Her head shot up when she heard it. When she look at the direction of the sound to find who it is, her heart skipped a beat when she saw Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle running towards her with their saddle bags.
"Apple Bloom! Sweetie Belle! You Came! You Both Came!" cry Scootaloo when her friends finally reach her.
"Of Course!" replied Sweetie Belle correctly guessing that her friend didn't expected her. "Just because I didn't like what Mr Marks says what my talent is doesn't mean I won't gunna do nothing."
"I thought I had to drag her out of her house when I got there this morning" added Apple Bloom with the idea that she could actually do it.
After a quick exchange of laughter and short giggles, an awkward silence soon covered the Cutie Mark Crusaders. A mix of emotions were racing in between their minds. The most prevalent one between Apple Bloom and Scootaloo was with Sweetie Belle, but they decided yesterday that they won't gonna talk about it.
"So..." said Sweetie Belle, breaking the silence. "Are you waiting for the town balloon driver to arrive?"
"Huh!?" said Scootaloo who was caught off guard. "Oh, oh yeah! Sir Marks had it arrange it to take me to Cloudsdale this morning"
"*huffing Signing* Yeah, me and Apple Bloom have to take the trains to get us to our mentors" replied Sweetie before everyone got into a depression
Fed-up with feeling depress, Apple Bloom ask the obvious: "Why Can't We Get Our Cutie Marks One At A Time!? Why Do We Have To Go At The Same Time!?"
"I don't know Apple Bloom!" replied Scootaloo. After stumbling to think of an answer, she said: "I mean... Who cares how we get them as long we get our cutie marks"
"Yeah..." replied Apple Bloom as she felt defeated with logic like that (logic she once used the day before). "I just want you guys to be their when I get my cutie mark"
Not wanting her friends to feel depress again, Sweetie Belle shouted: "HAY!" to get their attention. "It's like what Scootaloo said. Who cares how we get our cutie mark when we should be proud to get them."
Upon hearing what Sweetie Belle said, Apple Bloom and Scootaloo looked at each other before looking at her with happy agreement. Sweetie got them in a huddle and said to them: "Lets promise that on the last day of school, we show to each other our cutie marks and prove to everyone how much work it took to get them."
"Yeah!" replied Apple Bloom. "We also have to show Diamond Tiara that we will no longer be push around with anymore"
"YEAH!" replied Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. Then all three of them then exploded from the huddle crying out "Crusaders Forever!"
As they were enjoying their moment, it was disturbed when a voice cry out: "Woo Hoo! Way a-go fellas!" As they look to see who it is, the CMC was shocked to see Applejack and Rarity coming towards them.
"Applejack! What are ya doing here?" ask Apple Bloom in surprise
Applejack replied: "Ya didn't think we let you travel all across the country without us tagging along, will ya?" She then got a hoof around her sister's neck and said: "We also liked to be there when you get you're cutie marks". She then tried to give Apple Bloom and gentle noogie before Apple Bloom cheerfully push her sister away.
Rarity, who gave the last brushes in her with her hoof, said to them: "You got up so early in the morning, you didn't give me enough time to get all of my stuff"
"We thought the we didn't want to disturb you" replied Sweetie Belle to her sister. When she look at her however, she could see that Rarity feel that she might be unwanted. To quickly make it up to her however, she quickly added: "But we really appreciated that you come". Then Sweetie went into a loving embrace of her sister.
"For the next week, we'll help you out for a change" said Applejack.
As Scootaloo looked at Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle with their sisters and how happy they were, she couldn't help but feel left out. But just then, just to startle her, Rainbow Dash appeared out of nowhere beside Scootaloo and says: "Yeah, annoying, isn't it?". After being jumped to her side's, Scootaloo was overjoyed to see her idol appeared beside her.
Rarity, who was surprise as everybody else, asks: "Rainbow Dash! What are you doing here?"
"What! Just because you here for your sisters doesn't meant that I won't come here for Scootaloo" she replied before she help picked Scootaloo off the ground. When she heard "come here for Scootaloo", Scootaloo almost exploded like a squealing fan girls. Unfortunately, she finally squealed when Rainbow Dash added: "I even heard that you were going to my old flight instructor from flight school"
"WAIT!!" shouted Scootaloo as her brain was processing. "You telling me that I will taught how to fly be a pony who taught Rainbow Dash?"
"Well, I was a awesome flyer before he taught me a few tricks, but sure..." said Rainbow nonchalantly who was trying to be cool. She was about to add something else before Scootaloo cried "AWESOME!" that brought a smile to her face.
Just then, the horns of trains shouted all across the plaza. This signalled that their transports have finally arrived to take the CMC to their long appointed destinies. Despite knowing that they need to go, the CMC wanted the moment to last a bit longer,
"Come on Apple Bloom!" called Applejack who was heading towards their train. "It's a time to get a move on"
Even though they wanted to wait long, they know that they have to leave. Just as they separated and thinking that they won't see each other until the end of school, they give each other a strong smile to signal that they are gonna be ok. As Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom were catching up to their sisters, Scootaloo leave with Rainbow Dash who told her:
"Come on, Scootaloo! I've been waiting to see you fly"
~~~
Apple Bloom sat next to her window, staring out at the open desert that their train now entered. Her gaze up at the mountains was the only distraction she could find from the war going on inside her body. Anxiety grew in her stomach, with help from her worried towards her friends and her own. But her brain kept telling her that they will be fine and have faith in them and herself. But all of that got scrambled when her sister appeared beside her.
"So what did ya think of yer cutie mark!" asked by a curious Applejack. She remembers her lesson on not to babying Apple Bloom from the time where she was meant to be on her own, but in a time when her little sister is might finally be getting her mark, she have an excuse to be worried. Well, that was what she told herself anyway.
"Wai'...What!?" said Apple Bloom as she was pulled out her distractions.
"What did ya think when Mr Marks told ya what he thinks yer cutie mark Apple Bloom!" reiterate Applejack, thinking that she might need to be more clearer.
"Oh right! The construction thing!" replied Apple Bloom. The eagerness and concern on her sister's face was nowhere near how she feels on her cutie mark. She said: "Well... It's ok", as she leaned against her train window, hoping she could get away with just that. It didn't.
"Just "Ok"!?! Apple Bloom! This is yer cutie mark we talking about here. Ya not worried about somethin' that ya might be labelled as for yer inter life?" stated Applejack.
After giving a sigh on annoyance, Apple Bloom replied: "Well I don't not hate it. I mean, I like makin' stuff. Like the times where I help brew potions with Zecora and Twilight. It just that I'd be happy with what it is Mr Marks told me."
"But!..." Applejack responded. However, she cut herself off when she realize that Apple Bloom would be happy with anything Sir Marks had said. However, she has another way she could handle this.
"Well I'm just happy yer not upset about it. It's just that..." Applejack pause for a second, thinking she might reveal something that Apple Bloom might get upset. "... It just that I'd thought building stuff was what yer really good at."
"What!" reacted Apple Bloom.
"I mean, I was proud of ya every time we had to rebuild our barn. It's like that whenever there's a problem that's needin' to be fixed, you know how to fix it"
"If you know what I was really good at it, why hadn't you said about it before!" asked Apple Bloom.
"I thought I didn't had to tell ya because it was something ya had to discover for yourself" replied Applejack, knowing it might be something which Apple Bloom might not want to hear.
And it was, as Apple Bloom huffed in annoyance as her sister kept something from her for so long. However, Applejack got her attention back to her and told her:
"But Don't Worry! Yer big sister will be by right with ya for now on!"
"*SIGH* Thanks Applejack. But I don't need ya to..." replied Apple Bloom, thinking that her sister is saying she is trying to protect her... or hold her hand... um, hoof. However, Applejack unexpectedly interrupted her and says:
"No Apple Bloom!" said in a soothing tone. "I mean I'm here to help ya. Whatever ya need me to do, I do it"
Upon hearing what her sister just stated, Apple Bloom had a smile of appreciation on her face.
"Thanks Applejack" was the last thing she said before the sisters have a loving family hug. Just then, the train started horning it's horn as they were fastly approaching Appleloosa. As smoke start coming out of the chimney, the scene then moves to Cloudsdale
~~~
Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash was up in the clouds and I don't mean they weren't daydreaming. After arriving on the hot-air balloon (something which Rainbow find extremely boring ridding it), they quickly find themselves that they were already at Rainbow Dash's old flight school. Little pegasi were flying over them which dazzled Scootaloo with how care free they were. It was as if they were on their recess. Of in the distance, other pegasi where flying through some sort of obstacle curse, flying through rings (some had to go through twice) and in out of pillars.
Rainbow Dash was also drag into their nostalgia after seeing her old school. Seeing the obstacle curse made her remember the time where she humiliated it with ease and the other fillies congratulating her. Then across the school yard, she saw and abnormal "dent" in a cloud. Scootaloo notice her idol looking at it and was curious on what she was thinking. When Rainbow spotted her looking at her, shed blush and told her:
"Come on Scootaloo! We need to get a move"
"Oh! Right!" Scootaloo quickly push her thoughts back into her mind as she remembers that she's here to learn to fly. Both of them then rush towards a building made of cloud.
Once they got inside, they were quickly greeted by the lone teacher who was inside. He was a stern looking pegasus. He had a dark-grey or just dark coat and main, but he was also wearing a white coat and cap that almost made him look like a navy man. He also has one of those sunglasses which other instructors wore from Wonderbolt's Academy but quickly put them off once Rainbow Dash entered through the door.
"Rainbow Dash! Oh My Celestia! What are you doing here?"
"Hi coach. I'm just her for Scootaloo" replied RD who recognizes the guy
"Oh! Trying to imitate my job will ya" said the instructor, trying to get a reaction out of her. "Though, how you were when you was in my class, I wouldn't be all that surprise I you were started teaching. But then again ..."
"Iron! Please stop! That's a long time ago. I've gotten a lot awesome since then" stated Rainbow Dash, who let her old teacher gotten the better of her.
Then, the two gotten into a bit of a chit-chat
"Oh I Know! Almost a Wonderbolt now"
"What do you mean "Almost"? I'm in the Wonderbolt's reserves. And my I add, Me and my other reserve teammates are as good as the main team!"
"That's Great! Though I always wanted you to join the Steal Wings. The WonderBolts maybe the fastest team, but they don't often race in county wide marathons"
"WHAT!!! The WonderBolts are way better then the Steal Wings. Where were they when the WonderBolts competed in the Equestrian Games? Who gotten gold! Hmm?"
"They already competed in the Equestrian-500, Who remain undefeated. Any more and they would be show offs"
"Well they..."
Just then, both of them notice Scootaloo was waiting patiently beside them. A bit too patiently as she was having a massive grin on her face. Rainbow Dash and the teacher finally stop chit-chatting and then focus their attention onto her
"Scootaloo, This here is Iron Wings. The best flight instructor any pony should have" Said Rainbow Dash, introducing her old teacher
"How would you know!? You never really needed me" back chatted Iron Wings
Scootaloo as stun by fulfilled expectations of her mentor. Seeing Iron Wings make her think he is going to make her dreams of flight come true. But as soon as she realize that she was rudely staring at them, she picked her jaw of the flour and politely say: "It's nice to meet you"
Iron Wings then gotten to detective mode and started scanning Scootaloo. As he was looking around her, he ask:
"So Scootaloo... Have you ever been to Cloudsdale or any other cloud city?"
"I HAVE!..." stated Scootaloo, then she remembers when. "... when I was probably a 5 or so. My parents were actually from Cloudsdale, but I was born and raised in Ponyvile. But I have been her on holidays"
As Iron had a closer look at Scootaloo's wings, he went: "Hmm... Ah!". He then return and face Scootaloo and decide to tell her some bad news. It's like when a doctor telling love one of a patient they have a deadly disease... or the insurance company telling how expensive it is to fix your damage car.
"Umm... You see Scootaloo... You might not be able to fly just yet"
"WHAT!!!" yelled Scootaloo. You could see her hopes coming down through her eyes. Even Rainbow Dash were as surprise as Scootaloo.
Iron Wings explain: "That doesn't mean you won't ever going to fly. It just you that your wings haven't fully develop yet"
"But!... But!... Other pegasi in my class were able to fly and they aren't any older then me" rebutted Scootaloo
"I'm sorry Scootaloo, but pegasi outside of Cloudsdale aren't as naturally gifted flyers as ponies who where" explained Iron to a disappointed Scootaloo. "That's why I always say that you need flight schools on the ground But NOO! Elitists want ponies come to them if they want to fly. Well they need to shove those elitist asses in a rocket and got blast off to the moon"
But Just then, Iron realize Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash was overhearing his conversation to himself and was looking confused. As he was feeling embarrasses for himself, he just gotten and idea. He re-examine Scootaloo's wings and ask her:
"Hmm... Say Scootaloo, do you have any rollerblades or skateboards?"
"No. But I have my Scooter with me though" replied a still upset Scootaloo. But as Iron Wing's re-examining her wings, she became as curios as he is.
And then suddenly, Rainbow Dash came up with an Idea to make Scootaloo feel better.
"OH Yeah! Coach! You should see her when she's on her scooter. Man! She can jump off any ramp and do awesome tricks in the air. She can jump off her scooter, over a food cart and land back on like it was no sitch' (situation)"
"Really!" responded Iron Wings, shooting in response.
Iron Wings turn to Scootaloo and ask: "Did you bring with your scooter with you today?" Scootaloo was about to get it until Rainbow Dash already brought it beside her. Iron Wings began to grin gleefully and told her: "Scootaloo! I may not be able to fly just yet, but you will learn something even cooler then just flying"
This lifted Scootaloo from her depression and became intrigued to what Iron had said. She wonder if Sir Marks had anticipated this and that's why he said she should bring her scooter. But regardless, a new hope began to grow inside her and she is left in anticipation in what Iron Wing had in store for her
~~~
Meanwhile, Sweetie Belle and Rarity were already arrived at Canterlot and it wasn't long for them to find Sapphire Shore's studio. When they finally find her, everyone were happy to see each other.
"Rarity! Sweetie! It's good to see you, girls" said to Sapphire Shores to welcome her guests.
"Sapphire! Darling! It is exquisite to see you too" replied Rarity in her most lady-like. "And I must say, I am really grateful to take your time out of your busy schedule to help my sister how to sing"
"Oh don't worry about it. It's just a program that my talent agent come up with where I help teach the future stars" replied Sapphire to Rarity's compliment.
Sweetie Belle then just manage to squizzed into Sapphire vision and the both were happy to see one another.
"Hi Sapphire Shore. It's nice to see you again" said Sweetie, who was being as polite as she can be. Maybe a bit too nice as she almost gave Sapphire Shores diabetes. "...And sorry again about the time where I broke into your studio"
"Aww Sweetie! Don't mention it. That's way in the past now" replied Sapphire. "So Now... why don't we say we get started now? Shall we."
This was the moment that Sweetie Belle had been expecting, and she wasn't any happier about it. "I um... Umm..." were the only sounds that were escaping her mouth. When she unexpectedly look at Rarity and she thought that her sister is trying to give a message
"Oh! I see, you don't really need me" said Rarity sheepishly. "I will be just watching in the corner. You won't hear a pip out of me" she said as she walk back to the corner.
Once Rarity sat on a bench by the side of the wall, Sweetie Belle was alone with Sapphire Shores who wanted to hear her singing voice. Sweetie Belle swallow the pride she thinks she has and produce the best lullaby that she knows. However, she has the voice that she had during "Sleepless in Ponyvile" or the "Showstoppers". She was so bad, a glass beside Rarity cracked which startled her. Once she was done, everyone in the room was in total silence as they were shocked how bad Sweetie singing voice is, or they couldn't hear anything. When Sweetie look at Rarity with self-disappointment, Rarity quickly hid the crack on the glass by rotating it with her horn and gave a thumps up impression with her hooves
"Um... Wow! I mean... I never heard a voice like that since..." Sapphire cut herself off as she look at a disappointed Sweetie Belle. "... in a while . I mean, I heard worst voices in my career and they manage to improve in the end" she said that to lift her spirit. She lied. Not the part where bad singers gotten better. She never heard a voice that was as bad as what Sweetie Belle just sang.
"But don't worry Sweetie. I'll make sure you'll be singing like a star in no time" said Sapphire Shores. However, Sweetie Belle quietly disagrees.
~~~
Elsewhere in Equestria, Apple Bloom's and Applejack's train has finally arrived at Appaloosa junction. Apple Bloom was the first one of the two who rushed out of the train and waited impatiently for her sister to catch up. However, both of them didn't had to wait long to be greeted but a familiar cousin.
"Why look at that! Your train is on time for once" greeted the cousin in the cowboy hat.
Both of the Apple sisters were startled by the unexpected surprise welcome this early, but they were still happy to see their cousin Braeburn.
"Cousin Braeburn!" shouted Apple Bloom who didn't thought she would get to see him.
"Braeburn, are ya always gunna make a fuss about the train schedule when we arrive?" replied Applejack who grew weary on the subject.
"Oh come on cousin Applejack, I just want ya to see the new wonders of... A-a-PPLALOOSA!! " shouted Braeburn proudly. Apple Bloom and Applejack glance at each other, recognizing that he would do the same old shtick. But both shove and laugh it off because they still love him.
As Apple Bloom and Applejack were following Braeburn though the street of Appaloosa, they both could see that things had gotten livelier around here. Not only were the buffalo were socializing with the town ponies, but they thought they seen a buffalo or two running their own business. One buffalo was on a billboard of a casino.
As Braeburn notice his cousins where amazed of how things had gotten, he explains: "Ever since tensions were resolve with the buffalo, we had gotten really well with one an' other. Some even taken residence here."
As he was saying that, they notice one female buffalo was happily wave at them by a side on one of the buildings. To Applejack's joyful surprise, she recognize her as Little Strongheart. As they all wave back, AJ notice she became extra excited once they did. It probably was because she was happy that they recognize her, but Applejack like to think it had something to do with Braeburn. When Applejack gave him a look, he blush, try to signal "It isn't what you think" and face back what's in front of him.
"Well... Umm... Since A-a-ppaloosa... ha ha... gotten a bit more popular, we were force to expand. Fortunately, we made sure to check over with the head buffalo to know where we can go and we already in the process in building new houses." Braeburn explains. "It's also helped that we have a famous carpenter and architecture in the family".
Apple Bloom pick up what Braeburn just said and remember that her mentor is her uncle. She couldn't remember if and Apple family member were an architecture. But regardless, she was still excited to meet him.
After a few minutes or walking, all three of them walked away from the more busy part of town to a place that were under constructions. Some houses were almost finish while others where barely gotten started the further they walk. It also help that the buffalo were also giving a hand... um, hoof.
Eventually, they all approach a work table where a group of ponies were being ordered around by the construction manager. The workers disperse once Braeburn and the sisters finally reach them. Once the manager turn and face them, Apple Bloom instantly recognize him as their uncle... and were surprise to see that he wasn't what she imagined. He wasn't as strong looking as the other constructions around or even the once from Ponyvile, but he still had the aura of a very experience pony who you don't want to disagree with. He was an earth pony, like everyone around, and wears one of those white cowboy shirts with a classic bolo tie. The only other distinctive feature he has was that he had a ginger main. However, Apple Bloom were already expected a subversion and didn't care what her mentor or her uncle look like.
"Ah Braeburn! I see you brought more workers" said the uncle to Braeburn, saying in the most welcoming and calming way.
"Eh he he... Um sir, these are yer nieces that we were talking about. Apple Bloom and Applejack" Braeburn embarrassingly explains
"OH WHAT! Oh ho ho... I'm so sorry girls" apologized the uncle, who feels like he made a fool out of himself. "Where are my manners? I'm yer Uncle Apple Seed ".
As Apple Bloom was stun in imagination of her uncle help get her cutie mark, Applejack had some questions for him.
"Hay Ya uncle. It's good to finally see ya again. Um... I got to know. Why did ya stop coming around to the Apple Family Reunions anymore?"
"Ah! Little Baby Applejack! Last I saw ya, you were small enough for me to still pick ya up with my hooves" said Uncle Seed, who greeted his niece with a noogie which made her blush. After she push herself away, he sadly explains: "Well, sadly, I don't have enough free time to come to the family reunions nowadays. Whenever I have a free spot for me to go, I would get shifted with more work. I'll try to make it up though"
As all of them gather around the work bench, Applejack says: "Aw that's ok. It just that I'm now worried that if my little sister will be ok?"
Uncle Apple Seed explains to her: "Don't worry. She won't be doing anything too dangerous. I'll have her do the houses that's need finishing off." But then, he turn to Apple Bloom, look like her had bad news.
"However Apple Bloom, we can't start in until 2 days"
Both Apple Bloom and Applejack both shouted: "WHAT!" in surprise. But Apple Bloom was the first one to ask: "WHY!?!"
Braeburn explains: "Were running low on wood an' other stuff and we can't chop down our apple trees. We put in a requisition to order some more, but they won't arrive until the day after tomorrow... at thee earliest."
This cause Apple Bloom to go into a grump and shouted: "Arr SHOOT!!! I need to get my cutie mark before school finishes. Or else I... I mean I let my friends dow... I... I... AWRRR!!! " She gotten so mad, she couldn't finish her sentence. She also didn't want to slip about the bet with Diamond Tiara, but that only made her even madder. To release some stress, she kicked a discarded can so hard, it made a ruckus in one of the nearby sheds. You should have seen it too. Not only it bounce of the door and still got it inside, but it bounce around like a loony toon and hit everything inside.
Once the sound of gears, equipment and other falling metals stop, everyone relaxed and opened their eyes that they shut. Once everyone nervously checked to see the damage that Apple Bloom caused, they were glad to see that nothing was damaged. However, Apple Bloom and Applejack was curious of a large object covered in a tarp that took a large enough potion of the shed. However, they weren't left to wonder what it is as the tarp fell off on its own and revealing... a very worn down, busted up tractor that is slowly being eaten away by rust.
"What is this?" asked Apple Bloom who was wondering about the tractor.
"Oh this! That's just Old Bessie the tractor" replied Uncle Seed who start to feel pity for the thing.
"Old Bessie?" Apple Bloom responded in confusion.
"OH! OLD BESSIE!" screamed Applejack who finally recognized it. "I remember Old Bessie. She's like the very first tractor owned by the Apple Family who use to be on our farm. I remember ridding her up down the orchard when I was younger." However, as she was leaving her nostalgia state, she began to see the tractor as how it is now. "...But what happen' to her?"
"We don't know?" replied Braeburn. "One day, she just broke down for some reason. Everyone and anyone who found try to fix her, but no one could get her started again. We ordered a new tractor along with the other materials... but yeah."
As the room was overflowing with sadness and pity, Uncle Apple Seed said something that just kicked the bucket. "Well that's real shame...... Well come on Apple Bloom! I do still have other stuff that ya can do to get yer cutie mark"
As everyone was leaving, even Applejack left in sadness, Apple Bloom. She couldn't explain why, but she felt a weird connection towards Old Bessie. Maybe it's the fact how she thinks that the world is leaving they both behind. Finally she decided:
"NO! I think I decided what I'm gonna do!"
Everyone stopped moving and saw Apple Bloom entering the shed. When they look inside, they can see that she was picking up the tools that was around and start having a closer look at Old Bessie's engine.
"Apple Bloom! What are ya think yer doing!?!" shouted Applejack.
"I don't know if I can, but I want to fix her" she replied. "Don't worry. I fix the tractor back home plenty of times to know what I'm doing"
"Yeah, but Apple Bloom! Every have tried. Even the best mechanics doesn't know how to fix" explained by cousin Braeburn.
"I Don't Care! This is something I have to do!" rebutted Apple Bloom
As her sister and her cousin was her, Uncle Apple Seed stop them. He look at Apple Bloom who was already dismantling the tractor in a way that look like he relate to Apple Bloom in what she's doing.
"Don't worry" Uncle Seed stated. "There isn't enough gas to blow up the shed. Let her try where every pony else can't. And hay, this could also be work experience for her."
Applejack and Braeburn watch as Uncle Seed left to do other stuff. Applejack grew all the more worried for her. Deep down, her pride is telling her to pull Apple Bloom away. However, a strong voice in her head is telling her something else. Telling her that she shouldn't let hold Apple Bloom back. She should keep Apple Bloom away from harm, but to protect her from harm.
As Apple Bloom was under the tractor, staring down the multiples of problems, Applejack appeared beside her. As she was startled, Applejack ask her:
"Anything ya need?"
Apple Bloom was surprised that her sister was helping her. But then she remembers what she told her over the train, that she will be there for her. After she was feeling the look, she ask: "Can you pass me that ratchet" and both of them began work on fixing Old Bessie. Braeburn left them smiling, who wasn't sure if they can fix it, but believe that they're safe
Part 5- Cutie Mark Ordeals
The Final Crusade
Cutie Mark Ordeals
Previously On The Final Crusade
Scootaloo finally found her life's talent: recklessly endangering her own life. Wait what? Sweetie Belle also discover her talent and love of singing... even though she sang plenty of times before. Wait What! Also, Apple Bloom finally have got her cutie mark which she wanted since forever, but then decide to lie and tell ponies that she hadn't got her cutie mark...... WAIT WHAT!?!?
And Now, The Story
~~~
Out in the streets of Ponyvile, Diamond Tiara was running down alleyways and roads and appears that she's looking for some pony . Silver Spoon was following behind her but was totally confused to what they are trying to do.
"Diamond Tiara! Wait Up!" Yelled Silver Spoon as she was slowly getting exhausted.
"No Time!" She yelled back. "We Have To Find Apple Bloom!"
When Diamond arrived at a junction that leads down to multiple roads, Silver Spoon managed to catch up to her and catch her breath. As Diamond Tiara was deciding which road to take, Silver ask:
"Why do you want to find Apple Bloom? Are we gunna make fun of her or...?"
Angry at her for not having the same thoughts, Diamond Tiara turned to face Silver and told her:
"No! This is pay back for all those times where she and her friends made fools out of us. We may not get Sweetie Belle or Scootaloo, but once we make Apple Bloom our servant, we'll work to the ground. Well make sure that she won't talk back to us again."
As Diamond Tiara began to chuckle menacingly and Silver Spoon began to become worried, they both heard Applejack shouting: "Found Ya, Apple Bloom!" In no time at all, Diamond Tiara began to run towards where the sound came from. Silver Spoon ran after her and began fearing what Diamond might do.
Diamond ran around the corner and quickly spotted Applejack and Apple Bloom who was still wearing her crusader cape. Both did not look happy, with AJ looking angry or cross and Apple Bloom looking like she was upset. Diamond decided hide behind the corner to wait it out, but then Silver Spoon ran out of the corner, completely missing her. Diamond pulled her back in, told her "Shush" and they both began quietly eavesdropping.
"Apple Bloom! What In the Hay Da Think Yer Doing!?" demanded Applejack to Apple Bloom.
"I... I don't know Either" Apple Bloom replied depressingly.
"If ya don't know, why did ya lie to all your friend? Why did ya lie about not having yer cutie mark?". Once AJ asked that question, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon became baffled. They know as well as any pony else how much Apple Bloom wanted to get her cutie mark. It's illogical for her to lie about not having it. Unintentionally forgetting about the bet and pay back, they began to focus more on listening to the conversation.
Emotions was spiralling inside her head. Apple Bloom decide to tell her sister, but not because she felt defeated or got nowhere to hide. It was more like that she has a problem that is effecting her and she need to help.
"You see... When Scootaloo arrived, she accidently knocked me over Cheerilee's desk. When she did, I also knocked over some of Mr Marks papers. When I went to pick them up, I... I discovered..." Apple Bloom stammered. She was recalling the memory and was clearly giving her distress. As Applejack notice how upset and stress Apple Bloom was looking, she lighten up and actually became worried. Then, Apple Bloom began to cry as she forced the revelation out her mouth:
"He... HE WANT TO SPLITE ME UP FROM MY FRIENDS!"
"WHAT!" cried Applejack, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.
Crying but still trying to give the details, Apple Bloom explains: "When I... When I picking up the papers, I saw applications to a bunch of different schools. *Sniff* He want to send Sweetie Belle to a fancy singing school in Canterlot and *Sniff heavier* want to send Scootaloo to some daredevil school at Manehattan."
"What! No way he want to do that" replied a concerned Applejack.
"But I... *Sniff* But I Saw Them!" cried Apple Bloom, wanting Applejack to believe her.
As Apple Bloom burst down crying, AJ tried to comfort her little sister as she brought her in for a hug. "Come now. Why don't we go back and try to get this sorted out" she ask.
Just then, Apple Bloom pulled away frighten and shouted: "No!" As she saw how surprised AJ was, Apple Bloom realize that she need some sort of excuse to get out of it. "I want to... to find Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. I... want to tell them... what really happen."
Seeing how clearly frighten she was feeling, AJ felt pity for her. "Ok, I just go by myself. Just make sure your ok."
AJ and Apple Bloom split up. Applejack head back towards the school and Apple Bloom slowly walks away and not knowing where she's going. The only ponies that were left was Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. DT and Silver retreat further into the corner as they don't want to notice by anybody. Silver Spoon even notice how shocked Diamond Tiara is.
"Diamond... Are you ok? ask a concerned Silver Spoon.
There was a delay for a response, thinking that she was so confused that she was frozen. But she wasn't and she eventually say:
"That... wasn't... funny". As Silver Spoon became confused, she explains: "Usually, I would now make fun of those crusaders every chance I get. But now... I can't find it funny."
After a moment for the two to ponder, Silver Spoon came up with and says: "Maybe it just isn't funny. Maybe it wasn't funny to begin with?"
Diamond Tiara dismisses the idea and replied: "Silver Spoon, don't be an idiot. Of course it's funny. I mean, remember when..." But just then, Diamond paused herself. She didn't mean to pause, but as she remembers all of her "funniest" memories of teasing the CMC, she found them no longer funny as well. "No, No! They were funny" she thought out load. but the more she tried to convince herself, the less sure she became. When she could no longer fight herself any longer, her face grew horrified as she realized what is happening to them.
Then, Diamond Tiara burst out of the ally way from where she came from. Silver Spoon didn't know what was going on and chase after Diamond Tiara again.
"Tiara! Wait! Where Are You Going!" Silver Spoon yelled.
"No Time!" Diamond replied. "I Need To See My Father! I Decided To Help The Cutie Mark Crusaders!"
"WHAT!" Screamed Silver Spoon as she was surprised to hear that. She knew Diamond Tiara for most of her life and she thought she knew how she would act. But she never acted like this. All Silver Spoon could do was to chase after Diamond.
~~~
Back at the school house, Applejack arrived and was explaining things to Sir Marks and Cheerilee. In fact, they were the only ones there and the room was half empty. It was because school had finally finished and stuff was being put away to be ready for next semester. Cheerilee stood near a corner who was slowly packing stuff away but was looking over towards Applejack talking Sir Mark. Meanwhile, Sir Marks faced away from Applejack and Cheerilee but was clearly thinking about what Applejack was saying.
"... and that's why Mr Mark" said Applejack as she was finishing explaining. "That's why Apple Bloom lied and stormed off crying."
"First of, that is SIR Marks to you. Get it right" replied Sir Marks who was upset that Applejack didn't call him by his formal title. But back on hand, Sir Mark was clearly concerned about the situation and told them: "But yes, that is troubling..." Applejack and Cheerilee became happy as they thought the he was agreeing with them, but became shocked when they heard him added: "... she could really ruin the surprise."
"Ahem, Sir Mark, you not seriously send Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle away to different schools. Are you?" asked a concerned Cheerilee who stopped what she was doing and joined in on the conversation.
"But I am" replied Sir Marks nonchalantly, as if he wasn't seeing the problems. He walked behind the teacher's desk, acting like he's the boss in the room and reiterate: "I'm sending Scootaloo to "Tom Hawk's School for Junior Daredevils" and Sweetie Belle to "Celestia's Talent Academy for Future Stars. I'm just waiting on their replies." For your information, Tom Hawks is a griffin and "Celestia's Talent Academy" isn't really run by Celestia. She just gave the permission to allow a pony to use her name.
"But Mr Marks, don't ya see, you'll be splitting up their friendship" asked AJ
"SIR MARKS "
"Sir Marks, whatever. Ya just can't do this." replied AJ who was slowly getting annoyed about being corrected.
"Oh stop childish. You can't let friendship get in the way of success" replied Sir Marks who was also getting railed up by the situation.
"Marks, please" pleaded Cheerilee. "This isn't really necessary. Why can't they still study under me".
"I'm sorry Miss Cheerilee, but we must. The children are growing up and they need to focus on their futures. They can't let friends distract them from their full potential."
"Friendship Is Not A Distraction!" yelled Applejack, who acted like she was offended by Sir Marks last remark. ""Friendship Is A Wonderful Thing And It Can Help Ya!"
"DON'T SHOUT AT ME!" replied Sir Marks... who shouted back. Once he realize that he lost his composure, he took a deep to calm down and tried to be more charismatic towards Applejack. "Miss Applejack... Please listen to reason. I very much concerned about Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo as well". However, Applejack finding hard to believe that. Or at least in the right way. But then ask:
"Do you worry about Apple Bloom?'
Caught off guard, she replied: "What!... Um... sometimes?"
"And you do want her to having a happy future, right? "
"Yeah" said hesitantly.
"Well I'm just making sure they have a happy future too." He then went onto to explain: "You see, the schools that I'm sending them to will guarantee them successful careers. Not only will they learn to better use their talents, but they will also have qualifications and ponies will know how good they are. They could show how wonderful they are in stadiums filled thousands of ponies who will adore them. But if they stay here in Ponyvile...... The best they can do is little, childish parties."
"Yeah, but..." said Applejack who tried to argue back. But Sir Marks interrupt her and reiterate loudly: "Parties or Stadiums Miss Applejack?"
It was at that moment that Applejack didn't know what to say. Sir Marks was really persuasive. She strongly believe in the magic of friendship , but she doesn't want to get in the way of the CMC's future.
~~~
Apple Bloom was drinking her worries away by sipping a smoothie on the outside tables by Sugar Cube Corner. It didn't help though. The only time that it helped was when it gave her a brain freeze and expectantly it was short lived. She promised her sister that she would find her friends and tell them the truth, but she feels like she couldn't do neither. As Apple Bloom check to see if she has some smoothie left, she was found by the two ponies that she didn't want to see.
"Apple Bloom!" yelled Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo who spotted her. When Apple Bloom notice them, both of them began to run towards her. She wasn't confident enough to see them yet. But as she was leaving her seat, she notice how happy Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo as they were running towards her the made her feel happy. She knows that she can't run away forever, so she savaged any confidence she has and let them come to her.
"There you are Apple Bloom. We were worried sick about you" cried Sweetie Belle as she and Scootaloo got up to her.
"Oh! Thanks guys" happily replied Apple Bloom. But then she realized and ask: "Wait, hang on! School over already?"
"Yeah! School finished early because, you know, summer vacation started. We even got out earlier so we can... find you" replied Scootaloo who then remembers why Apple Bloom ran away to begin with. Apple Bloom notice Sweetie and Scootaloo was looking towards her flank which was covered by her CMC cape. Apple Bloom thought that they knew she was lying and was shacking to the thought that they gunna ask her about it. But to her surprise, they believe that she didn't got her cutie mark. "Don't worry Apple Bloom. We still your friends even though you still haven't got your cutie mark" said Scootaloo to make her feel better.
"What!... Um..." muttered Apple Bloom. "Um... Yeah... It was just too embarrassing about not getting it. I thought that you..."
"Come on Apple Bloom. You should know us by now. Were not Diamond Tiara. We wouldn't think that were better just because we got cutie mark and not you."
"Oh Yeah! Yer Cutie Mark!" shouted Apple Bloom. "Can I have a closer look?"
Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo share a smirk as they were excited to show Apple Bloom. They jump back and got their rears closer together to show off how amazing both of them together. It clearly worked as Apple Bloom was left out astounded.
"Who could not believe what I had to do to get this Apple Bloom." said Scootaloo.
"Really" replied Sweetie Belle as she pulled back and became curious. "What did you had to do to get your cutie mark?"
Scootaloo was hit with all of the fear and terror of what she had to do. She look at her curiosity stricken friends and told them: "I have to jump... off a cloud... onto a smaller cloud... and off a skyscraper sized daredevil slide." As she saw how shock they were, Scootaloo felt like that she had reiterate. "Well it was a more then that. At first I has terrified. But then Rainbow Dash gave me a big motivational speech and I realize that I can take on anything as long as was myself."
"Wow!" replied Sweetie Belle who notice the similarity between their trials. "I wasn't so much different compared to what I went through. When I compared myself to my sister, I felt that I couldn't do anything. But when I stop and realize what I am, it wasn't that hard to get it."
"Yeah... not so different" mutter Apple Bloom to herself who also realize the similarities. But then she remembered the grim reality and says: "I guess this is the end of the 'Crusaders, isn't it" before she took another sip of her smoothie.
"What are you talking about Apple Bloom" rebutted Sweetie Belle. "The 'Crusaders isn't finished just yet."
"What!" reacted Apple Bloom who became surprised.
"We can't stop until everyone of use get cutie marks" happily explained Sweetie Belle
As she was how happy and caring her friend were, she felt like this was the happiest moment she have with them. She was so moved by this, she wanted this moment to last forever. Once she realize that her smoothie was finished, Apple Bloom jumped out of her seat and all three of them began to walk off.
"Come on. Since two of us have our cutie marks, the process should be like... 3 times as fast" stated Scootaloo.
"Yeah! I there was anything that I learned at Appaloosa, it's that you should never give up" said Apple Bloom who felt that she regain her sprite.
But all of this was ruined however when Sweetie Belle suggested: "Hay! Why not ask Mr Marks for help"
Without Sweetie or Scootaloo realizing, Apple Bloom froze when she mentioned Sir Mark. She felt that if they go to them, he would ruined their happy then and forever.
"Yeah! You might not got it right away, but he must know a thing or do that might help" said Scootaloo.
But then, as her friend was talking about Sir Mark, Apple Bloom thought of something. She thought that they would be happy going to the talent school. Maybe she thought that it's better for them to leave her behind.
Feeling like that she need to test them, Apple Bloom ask: "Um, guys..." Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo stopped and realize that Apple Bloom was a few feet behind them. "What would ya say if a pony told ya that you can go to the school or your dreams? Like you Sweetie can go to a fancy school for singers and Scootaloo goes to a school for daredevils."
After taking a moment to think about it, both of them replied in unison: "That Would Be Awesome!"
"I just learned about daredevil ponies and now I want to know everything about them" said Scootaloo.
"Yeah! I could learn a thing or two from a coach that can help me" added Sweetie Belle
Then Scootaloo said: "Maybe a talent scout might come to see us tomorrow?"
"Tomorrow!?" Apple Bloom asked out in confusion.
"OH Yeah! There'll be a big show tomorrow to help kick off summer vacation" explained Scootaloo. "Once Mr Marks learned about it, he arranged it so we can perform in front of the entire town"
"Yeah! We could do..." said Sweetie Belle before she gone off into her own conversation with Scootaloo. As they continue talking, Apple Bloom notice how happy and excited they were. She felt that she was unneeded, unwanted, some pony that will hold them back. As they continue having their conversation, Apple Bloom quietly slips away.
"Yeah! In fact, we could really use your help Apple... Bloom!" said Sweetie as she turned to face Apple Bloom. But when she did, Apple Bloom was already gone. It was at that moment that she and Scootaloo must have said something that might have upset their friend,
~~~
Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo scout the town again in search for their missing friend. The more that they searched, more anxious they become over the whole situation.
"Where could have Apple Bloom have gone?" asked Scootaloo.
"What could we have said that made her so upset?" asked Sweetie Belle in return.
As they thought long and hard about it, they were interrupted by an unexpected and familiar voice. "Hey Sweetie Belle! Scootaloo" happily cried out the voice to get their attention. As they turned around to see who it is, they were surprised to see who it is. It was Babs Seed
"Babs!" cried Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo as they saw their distant friend. As they run towards Babs and she run towards them, everyone accidently greeted each other by accidently colliding into one another. They laid on the ground and rubbing their heads and their injured places. However, the pain went away as everyone laughed it off and were just too happy to see each other.
"He He He! It's great to see you guys again" said Babs as she picked herself up.
"He Ha. It's good to see you too Babs" replied Sweetie Belle when she picked herself off the floor.
Once everyone picked themselves up and checked that everyone's alright, they finally exchange pleasantries.
"What are you doing here Babs" asked Scootaloo who curious.
"As soon as I heard you guys got your cutie marks, I convinced my parents for me stay for a couple of days" explained Babs
"That's Great! Apple Bloom would be excited to see you" added Sweetie Belle.
Just then, everyone remembered that Apple Bloom was missing. Babs Seed quickly ask before anybody could said anything: "Hey, where is my cousin anyway? I thought my parents let everybody know I was coming? But when I arrived at the train station, no one was around to pick me up."
"We would like to know to" Scootaloo sadly replied
"What do you mean?" Babs Seed enquired.
"Well... Apple Bloom has been avoiding us for some reason" Sweetie Belle explained that shocked Babs. "When Apple Bloom told everyone that she hadn't got her cutie mark, she ran out of our class. We found her earlier and we thought we cheered her up, but she snuck away from us"
But then, Babs Seed become confused. "Wait!? What you say?" she asked.
"She snuck away" Scootaloo replied thinking that's what she meant.
"No, before that..." she elaborated. "... You said she didn't got her cutie?"
"Umm... Yeah" Sweetie replied after shared a worried glanced with Scootaloo.
Babs Seed revealed: "She said she got her cutie mark at Appaloosa"
"What!" Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo reacted. Both of them looking intensely at Babs thinking she might have answers, but can clearly see that she is a confused as they are.
As everyone became worried and confused, Scootaloo asked out load: "Why would Apple Bloom about it?"
~~~
So every pony is wondering about where the heck is Apple Bloom. And I'm gunna make the assumption that you are to. Well, Apple Bloom is at the Cutie Mark Crusader's treehouse and being drowned by all the happy memories that she is remembering. She stood over the thinking spot where her and her friends came up with ideas. She saw the small table by the corner that have all of the arts an' crafts stuff. She then remembers the time were they made the giant card for Cheerilee. This eventually lead to her to remember to all of memorable moments in her life. Meeting Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, their crusading adventures, Twilight teaching them new talents, inducting Babs Seed into the CMC. She even remember the bad times with Diamond Tiara but Apple Bloom admitted to herself that she help her meet her true friends. If this would be in an episode of the show, the song "I've Got To Find A Way " would be playing in the back ground. In fact, that song might be suited better her then "'Mystery Cure".
As all the good memories comes to pass, eventually, all good things will come to the present. Apple Bloom gone out to the treehouse's balcony and now remembering what happened to her and her friends in the past few days. She fell and lien against the wooden rails and looked at her cutie mark that is still covered by her cape. If for anything, she now consider the CMC logo as her cutie mark.
As she slump over and cross her hooves, Apple Bloom said aloud in frustration and into her arms: "I wish we never got our cutie marks. I just wish everything stayed the same.
But then, as Apple Bloom was sobbing into her arms, she heard a voice she didn't expected. A voice she didn't expected to hear from where she was or expected to see in a couple of days. Even more confusing is what the voice was shouting.
"Tiara! Are You Here!? Please Tell More You're Here! TIARA!" shouted Silver Spoon as she was stumbling through the apple tree filled forest. When Apple Bloom look out and spotted her, she could notice how totally confused Silver Spoon was. Not only does she want to know what was going on, but she felt so much pity for her that she had to call out.
"HAY SILVER SPOON! What Are You Doing!?"
Silver Spoon was frighten when she heard Apple Bloom's voice. She was also surprised once she finally spotted the treehouse but was also confused on wither or not to go towards. Once Apple Bloom could see that Silver Spoon was bitting her hoof, she sighed and called her over.
"*Sigh* Come Over Here!"
Silver Spoon hesitantly walked over towards Apple Bloom's location. It seems that if Diamond Tiara wasn't around to tell Silver Spoon what to do, she would be indecisive and can't make a choice purely on her own without second guessing. Apple Bloom just find this fact depressing.
Once Silver Spoon got over to the treehouse and was below the balcony Apple Bloom was on, she asked: "Um, Apple Bloom, have you seen Diamond Tiara?"
"No, I haven't?" Apple Bloom replied intriguingly.
"Oh Shoot!" Silver Spoon shouted out in frustration. As it appeared that Silver Spoon was about to storm off, she unexpectedly stopped and became confused on what to do again.
Don't want to see her like this, Apple Bloom asked: "What were ya doing before ya lost her?"
As confused as she was, she knows that she didn't want Apple Bloom to know she and Diamond Tiara was eavesdropping on her earlier. She replied: "Um well... we were running over to see you. Then... Then Tiara decided to run to see someone else and after that, I lost her."
"Oh! Ya were coming over to see me, huh" Apple Bloom said depressing. "Let me guess, ya was coming over because of the bet and want me to be yer slave."
"Yes... I mean... we were. But know we..." Silver Spoon admitted which just confuses Apple Bloom even more then before. Silver Spoon then explain: "Well, we can't even if we wanted to. I mean, since you got your cutie mark and all and... EEP!" then covered her mouth once she realize she revealed something that she shouldn't.
"WHAT! How Did Ya know That I Got My Cutie Mark!?" shouted Apple Bloom in surprised. Angered, Apple Bloom jump down towards Silver Spoon's level and stair her down to get her answer.
Unable to bare it any longer, Silver Spoon revealed the secret that she knows.
"Ok, me and Diamond Tiara overheard your conversation you had with you sister and we know what that cutie mark consoler is trying to do with you. That's why I have a tough time finding Diamond Tiara. Once she heard your story, she decided to help you guys and ran off towards somewhere and I don't know where?"
"OK, stop lying" Apple Bloom said disbelievingly. "No way Diamond Tiara would help anybody besides herself her self and you, let alone us."
As Apple Bloom was climbing up the ladder to get back up to the treehouse, Silver Spoon actually become offended.
"Hay! Take That Back!" she yelled frustratingly. "Tiara was so to wanting help you Crusaders."
"Yeah right" Apple Bloom replied as she stop to went back to argue. "Diamond Tiara called me and my friends blank-flanks since the beginning and made fun at us every chance ya get. Ya were mean, insulting and generally the cruellest ponies in the class. What made ya think that after all this time, she only now decided to be kind to us."
After hearing Apple Bloom's argument, Silver Spoon took a deep breath before to clear her mind before she would argue back:
"Ok, you right. Diamond Tiara and me might not have been the kindest ponies in miss Cheerilee's class (understatement), but we not always like that. Diamond Tiara is my friend and I know how kind she can be. She invite me to everywhere she goes and she always attend my parties. So now matter what you are any pony says, I will always be Diamond Tiara's friend and I will not stand any pony making fun of her like that."
Once Silver Spoon finish making her speech, some sort of chord was struck inside Apple Bloom. Acting like the speech hit her, Apple Bloom grabbed onto the ladder and Silver Spoon feared that she might have done something wrong. "No matter what, you'll always be Diamond Tiara's friend" Apple Bloom muttered out load as the words going through her mind. Closing her eyes, hearing those words help her realize something. Something that helps strengthen her once weakened spirit.
"Thanks Silver Spoon" said Apple Bloom as she turned back towards Silver Spoon and finally become cheerful again.
"What!" replied Silver Spoon who was caught of guard.
Apple Bloom explains: "Ya will always be Diamond Tiara's friend in the same way I will always be Sweetie Belle's and Scootaloo's friend. Thanks... because ya helped me realized that."
"Um... Thank?" Silver Spoon replied nervously.
Apple Bloom then looks up towards the Cutie Mark Crusader's treehouse as she was then hit by inspiration.
"Hey, Silver Spoon. Would ya mind helping me with something for tomorrow?"
Part 6- Cutie Mark Crusaders
The Final Crusade
Cutie Mark Crusaders
Previously On The Final Crusade
Apple Bloom revealed to her sister that Sir Mark is planning to send Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle to different schools all across Equestria. When Diamond Tiara overheard this fact, she had a change of heart and decided to help the Crusaders by running off to somewhere to do something. Applejack confront Sir Marks about this, but he quickly convince her however that this is what best for them. When Apple Bloom suggest the possibility to her friends, they were more then excited to see that happen. Amidst their excitement, Apple Bloom slip away and as they were looking for her, they learn from Babs Seed that Apple Bloom have got her cutie mark. As Apple Bloom wallow in her self pity and sink into a depression, she had a chance encounter with Silver Spoon who help her realize something important.
And Now, The Story
~~~
It was the next day and the town is having a carnival. Stalls filled toys, games and prizes covered the streets and a giant stage sat next to town hall for a special performance . Ponies were having fun before, but some are really having fun now as they are now sharing their joy with their children. Some games are sort of rigged, specifically one where you meant to hit a target and supposed to be knocked over. But one rainbow collared pony managed to knock it down as she was hanging with her friends.
"Rainbow! Will ya stop playing and listen for a moment" yelled a frustrated Applejack who thinks that her friend isn't listening.
"I'm Listening!" Rainbow Dash yelled back. "I just... ERRR! It's just so frustrating and I need to be doing something"
"Anyway, that's what he said yall" said Applejack who moved or attention away from Rainbow Dash and to the rest of her friends who was there. "If we're really want what's best for our little sister, he said we should let them go."
Once Applejack finish explaining, everyone's attention, including Rainbow Dash fall on Twilight and waiting for her response.
"Well Applejack, if it's what they really want, then we can't really stop them."
"I guess Twi'" replied Applejack who did not want that to be her answer. However, her wish was fulfilled a moment later when Twilight added:
"But I wouldn't want to say that's what really best for them."
"I see what your mean Twilight" commented Rarity who want to add her two cents in. "I would hate myself if I hear my Sweetie Belle passes an opportunity such as this just for my sake. But I also would not like to hear that if she does leave, she would miss me too much for her to bare."
"I also don't like that consoler" added Applejack who was now thinking about Sir Marks. "He always like to act like he's high an' mighty and thinks that he's knows Everything! Why, he even start telling ponies that the Little Cutie doesn't exist, saying that dumb ponies made her up because they couldn't understand a non-magic-like answer ."
"WHAT!" reacted Twilight to the surprise. "But... Cutie Mark Consolers were supposed to be Inspired by "The Little Cutie"! Even if you don't believe the story, the message was that someone will always be there to help find your way. How could some pony be a Cutie Mark Consoler if they can't understand that message?"
As the ponies were developing a very low opinion on the guy, they were distracted by the sudden appearance of Pinkie Pie who grabbed their attention.
"Hey! Are you talking about Markey!?" Pinkie Pie care freely asked as she swung a hoof around Twilight.
"Markey?" Applejack said aloud and doesn't know what to think of the nickname
"Oh, he's a friend I made the other day. But he doesn't like my parties though, I guess he really the quiet type" explained Pinkie. Twilight just rolled her eyes and just hope it doesn't turn into another "Cranky Doodle Donkey" incident. "Oh! Hey, there he is right there" shouted Pinkie and pointed towards the large stage.
~~~
As everyone began spotting Sir Marks, he began spotting them. More specifically, Pinkie. As she calmly wave to him, he mistook it as she will come over and "attack" him and legged it back stage. This broke Pinkie's happy mood.
After Sir Marks calmed himself, he found Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo who was preparing for their performance. Well, I say that. They meant to be preparing, but they were lounging around and look like they aren't very motivated.
"GIRLS!" Sir Mark whispered loudly. "You are meant to go on at any minute now. Why are you not preparing?"
"Sorry Mr Marks" apologized Sweetie Belle. "We just..."
"SIR Marks" ruddily interrupted Sir Marks.
"Ok, Sorry!" replied Sweetie Belle, who felt annoyed. "Anyway, we feel like we can't go on until we find Apple Bloom"
"Y-Y-You can't go on un-until you find Apple Bloo..."muttered Sir Mark who felt so angered and frustrated, that it's scrambling his brain. "Stop Being Childish And Start Getting Ready!" he yelled in anger.
"Yeah, but it's not the same without Apple Bloom and we really need to talk to her" explained Scootaloo.
He felt like he was about to have another explosion, but he tried his best not to let his anger to get the best of him (despite a few sounds that slipped pass his mouth. After he tried really, REALLY hard to regain his composure, he breathed out his anger and calmly argued:
"Listen girls. A lot of ponies have come because they want to see your performance. I would even say that some of them REALLY want to see your performance. So unless you want to let them down, get ready and show off your talents."
Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo and see that they didn't have rebuttal for his argument. Once he could see he won, Sir Marks quickly notify them: "Ok. OH! And Scootaloo, you are going first." Sir Marks left them and Sweetie and Scootaloo get off whatever it is they were leaning on and go together to get their stuff. However, both of them could tell that they won't be having fun as they make their performances.
~~~
A few minutes later, Sir Marks peak out from behind the curtain and look out to see the audience that have arrived. The audience's size was a bit larger then he expected, filled recognizable background ponies (Lyra and Bon Bon, Derpy, etc.) and family and friends of the Crusaders. But he didn't care about that, if anything else, it made his personal task even harder. All he cared about is if he can see the talent scouts that he requested had came and he grinned like an evil mastermind once he found them. One pony that looked like a skater. I.E: wearing a cap backwards, wearing pads he left on and t-shirt for Tom Hawk's Daredevil School. The other talent scout looked like Hoity Toity or it could be Hoity Toity himself. But regardless, since they arrived, Sir Marks felt that the show is ready to begin.
"Ladies and Gentle-Colts!" shouted Sir Marks as he burst out from behind the curtains. His burst was so dramatic and unexpected, it was less then surprising for a couple of ponies to be startled, some even drop what they were holding. "I am more commonly referred as SIRR Fine Mark..." Actually, you more referred as Mr Mark, but whatever. "... And I made it my goal to help to find the destinies of every little foals that I come across. I came to this town to help find the cutie marks of three special fillies and discovered that their Destinies is to be the Future Stars of Equestrian Society . And now, to present the next most popular daredevil pony... SCOOTALOO!"
Once he announces her name with a big, booming voice, the crowd began cheering out as the curtain raises and there stood Scootaloo ready on her scooter. As she see the crowd happy and excited to see her on stage, an addicting thrill rushes around Scootaloo's body that she could really get use to. But no matter how addicting it is, her worry for her friend protected her from being possessed by it. However, she is on stage and she don't have the luxury to appear worried. Sweetie Belle, on the other hand, can look worried as she watch just off stage.
Then suddenly, huge red rings appeared and began drift over the audience. As they had just spotted the rings, a ramp slide up in front of Scootaloo so she can jump off of. Then, the rings began to align, showing a path which Scootaloo must take. She have to jump off the ramp with enough speed and power to fly over the crowd, through the rings and land safe and sound on the other side on a platform on top of the stands. Don't worry about her or her scooter hitting the audience. There are unicorns by the side to cast a magic net to protect them.
Scootaloo backed up to give her more space. Once she was confident enough in how far back she is, she got on to her scooter and getting ready to start. Like a car getting ready for a street race, her "engine" that is her wings is flapping as strong as they can as Scootaloo foot is on the brake. Being in this scene makes her remember the Icarus Drop which she had to go down to get her mark. Rainbow Dash certainly remember it too and she hide her feared look away when Applejack look at her. However, Scootaloo had learned to live pass any limitation that she has and she blasted off without any fear on her head.
Once Scootaloo jumped off the stage with her scooter beneath her feet, she soar above the heads of the ponies. Going through the tunnel of rings with ease. The audience was so amazed by this, not a singe one of them had their mouth's shut. In fact, she could spit and it could probably land in one of their mouth's... which she didn't.
Once she gone through the last ring, all she have to do is to land on the platform. Scootaloo, for once, was enjoying herself as she felt like she was flying as the wind was brushing against her face. She was so relax and confident, she had her eyes closed as she let glide towards the landing spot.
But then, Scootaloo heard some sort of a grunting sound that made her woke up. She look down to see where it came from. I didn't came from the ponies beneath her as they was left star stuck. And then, as she moved her daze out away from the crowd, she saw the think that made the sound:
"Apple Bloom!!" yelled Scootaloo in surprised.
Just off from the open area for the crowd, Scootaloo could see Apple Bloom (still wearing her Crusader's cape) making her way towards the stage. And she was alone too. Apple Bloom was dragging a large cart with a tarp hiding what she was carrying. And the pony that was helping her pull the cart was Silver Spoon who was finding it not exactly easy pulling it.
Despite the confused sight she's seeing, Scootaloo realize that she had also make the landing. It almost looks that she wouldn't make a safe landing as the distraction made her appeared that she was wobbling. However, she stick the land but she stumble off her scooter.
Thinking of nothing else, Scootaloo left her scooter and rushes over to find Apple Bloom again. Once she got over to see the crowd, Apple Bloom had already got her cart to the audience and making her way through it. The audience members had no trouble and moved out of her way, despite not knowing what she was doing. It probably not need saying, but even the Mane 6 was as confused as the audience.
Sweetie Belle peeked out as she wonder why the audience stop making any noise. What she see, to her joyful surprise, was Apple Bloom who manage to get her cart on stage.
"Apple Bloom!" Sweetie Belle shout out as she rushes to her friend.
"Sweetie Belle!" shouted Apple Bloom in return and she actually look happy to see.
The two friends reunite as they embrace for a quick hug. Once they let go, Scootaloo yelled out Apple Bloom's name as she fly back towards the stage with her scooter. As the Crusaders was finally reunited and was about discus what was going on with Apple Bloom, Silver Spoon was left disgruntled as she was left to prepare Apple Bloom's stuff.
"Apple Bloom!... What are you doing?" asked Sweetie Belle with confusion but was also happy.
"I'm sorry guys..." Apple Bloom apologized to begin with. "I know how I've been acting wasn't cool and I'm really sorry for that. It just a lot had happen to me and us in the past week and I was just scared about what will happen to our friendship. But it's all better now because I now remember how important to have ya as my friends, remember how important the Crusaders mean to me".
Despite not knowing what she was on about, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo just felt so happy to hear Apple Bloom saying that. However, the moment was short lived however as Sir Mark bursts on stage and angrily making his way to Apple Bloom.
"Apple Bloom! What In the Blue Blazing You Think You're doing!" angrily demanded Sir Marks who you could see the fire in his eye.
"Sorry Mr Marks..." apologized Apple Bloom who unintentionally just made him even madder. "... I apologized for interrupting the show but I want to show everyone my talent. Can I... Please!" she said as she began to beg.
"But It's SIR Marks..." was the only thing he said as he was about to blow. I when I mean "blow", I mean this time that he was shaking and his horn had a red glow where it look like it was a lit fused. But however and fortunately, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo beg along with her and spotting an intrigued audience also helped.
Despite him want to correct her on the preferred pronunciation on his name, Sir Mark kept his cool and told Apple Bloom: "Fine... Go when your ready" but with a lot of irritation.
The girls were overjoyed with the approval and Apple Bloom rushes over to Silver Spoon to help her set up. Sweetie and Scootaloo moved to the very edge of the stage and apparently they needed it because what Apple Bloom brought was a bit... perplexing. Apple Bloom and Silver Spoon was moving large, white wooden boards and appearing to make a wooded house. The sides were edged out that made them look like jigsaw pieces so all that they had to do is to put them into place. They had to hammer with their hooves a few pieces into place to make the whole thing stick, but it was quick and it wasn't unglamorous.
Once they were done, they had what appeared to be a fairly large (larger then the kids) house with the only things missing was the roof and the back wall. It would look like a treehouse if it was on a tree. And all of the features that would have been on a house, such as windows and a door, were just painted on. However, once unique "feature" about this house that make the audience think it's look striking was a Cutie Mark Crusader's logo painted on the front for everyone to see.
Apple Bloom and Silver Spoon took their breath once they had finish. Silver Spoon clearly shows that "I'm done" and left the stage as Apple Bloom was left alone as she turn towards the audience to make her speech.
"My name Apple Bloom and my family runs Sweet Apple Acres" she introduces loud and proudly. "For thee longest time now, I've always wanted my cutie mark and I was pretty impatient. I wanted it and I wanted to show ponies that I'm mature and grow up. That's when I met Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo who was very much like me and wanted to get their cutie marks. That's when we decided to form the Cutie Mark Crusaders in hopes to fulfil our dreams together." As she said that, she looked up to the CMC logo on the house and everyone could see how close and important it means to her. The audience was certainly moved and the other CMC knows how Apple Bloom was feeling.
But then, Apple Bloom moved into a sadder and more sombre tone. "But now... we got our cutie marks. And now... we can no longer go on the same adventures we had before. Now that we "grown up ", we have to move on live our lives that destiny have in store for us. We might not... even see each other again."
It was at that moment, as the audience giving Apple Bloom their sympathy, that Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo had finally realize what was troubling her for all this time. Feeling like fools for not realizing this sooner, the only thing they could do was wiping away their tears before their friends notices them (she did). The only one not moved by this sad part of the speech was Sir Marks who was watching intensely at her, appeared preparing for something he might not like.
"But then... I learned something" Apple Bloom said her tone return more uplifting and hopeful. "I realize that growing up doesn't mean we have to give up our childhood. What we are could only exist by whatever we did as kids that helps us form what we are today. And even though we might not be able to do the things we love as a kid, we still remember them... in our heart, that will care them on to even now."
As everyone was being moved by her speech, Apple Bloom revealed that she have something even more to add to her presentation by presenting a flower pot. Once everyone recognize it as a flower pot and was curious on what she is going to do with it, she rushes with it behind her house that she made and began doing something. She went out an in again when she grabbed test tubes and beakers from her cart that was filled with potions and chemicals. And then chemicals explosions began happening "inside the house" as puffs of green smoke began escaping for ponies the see. After a half-a-minute of concocting, Apple Bloom rushes out that look like she was escaping something that never came.
Everyone watching was staring intensely at the house as everyone was expecting something. Something was defiantly meant to be happening as Apple Bloom was clearly was watching along with them as she looks desperate. Enough time have pass for them to think that whatever it is failed but not enough yet to believe that it didn't. Apple Bloom's eyes shut as she was desperately hoping that her plan would work.
And her prayers were happily answered. After a few more moments of grateful patients, the house and the stage began to shake. Before ponies began to panic, a big and massive "BOOM!" was sounded and large white tree trunk sprouted beneath the house. The house shot up as the trunk push it up to the sky. The holes finally serve it's prepose as branches weave themselves through them and make more branches so the wall have no way to escape. The house even appeared to have a roof now as leafs with dark-emerald colours cover the top. Once it was done, what was left was a treehouse that would be well suited for the Crystal Empire. What could make this even better is when the tree was forming, awesome/epic background music would play if this was animated.
Every-pony was amazed about this spectacle that no-pony had seen before. Even Sir Marks was left baffled as Apple Bloom had destroyed his preconception of her. Apple Bloom walk forward of her masterpiece as she grabs everyone's attention and loudly proclaims:
"... And even if we were to split apart far an' far way, I'll always treasure my memories of my friends and everything that we do together. Even when I now have cutie mark, I will always be... A CUTIE MARK CRUSADER!!! "
The crowd cheered Apple Bloom for her brave speech and her performance. When she look at her friends to see how they feel about this, they already were running towards her.
"Apple Bloom..." cried Scootaloo when they got to her. "... I... We are... That Was Amazing!" she said as she was scrambling on what to say.
"We never knew that how you felt that way about us" stated Sweetie Belle so sincerely that it brought a smile on Apple Bloom's face.
And then they notice Sir Marks slowly walking over as looked dumbstruck at Apple Bloom's treehouse. When he finally picked his jaw up, he said:
"... Wow! I never knew you were so good with potion brewing Apple Bloom. I knew I should asked that one pony. I would have to work harder in the future if I don't want to miss another talent like that."
Seeing Sir Marks impressed with her performance made Apple Bloom think things are gunna get better. She thought that maybe that she changed his mind and he won't send Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo away. Maybe the Crusaders would stick together for a bit longer. However, Sir Marks returned to his nasty and arrogant self as he began tearing apart Apple Bloom's speech.
"But that speech... Oh My Celestia! That was the most childish and immature speech that I have ever heard!"
"Hay! I Kinda Like It!" defended Sweetie Belle
"Yeah! Me Too!" Added Sweetie Belle
"NO NO NO No No no no!" repeated Sir Marks as he couldn't believe that they are defending her. "You can't be serious..."
"We Are!" stated Scootaloo. "We treasure our memories of being a Crusader very much, same as Apple Bloom. In fact..." She paused for a second to look at Apple Bloom who was wondering what she was gunna say. Then she look at Sweetie who nods and was thinking the same thing that she was thinking. Her and Sweetie then turned back at Sir Marks and they loudly proclaim with all of their hearts and soul:
"WE'LL BE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS FOREVER TOO! "
Sir Marks head shake and act like his ear was hurting, but probably not because how laud they were. Disregarding any level of professionalism and utterly horrifying the audience, he yelled with untamed anger:
"DON'T SHOUT!!! ". As the CMC stopped reeling from the loud shout, Sir Mark went onto to angrily explains: "You can't carry this childish thoughts when you grow up because they are just CHILDISH. When I find a school for you Apple Bloom, you'll all see how foolish you all are"
"What?" responded Sweetie Belle who was confused on what he's on about.
"That's what he trying to do" explained Apple Bloom who grabbed her friends attentions. "Mr Marks want to send all of us to different schools all across Equestria and we wouldn't see each other again."
"What!" replied a shock Sweetie Belle. "No way we would ever go, even before now."
"You mean that Sweetie Belle?" asked Apple Bloom.
"Of course" replied Scootaloo, happily answering to the question.
"NO! You're not listening. And it's SIR MARK! WHY CAN'T NO-PONY LEARN TO PRONOUNCE MY NAME CORRECTLY!" Oh, I don't know? Either your a jerk who nobody want to remember the correct pronunciation or somebody is making them say it .
"Every-Pony! Calm Down!" yelled Twilight as she flew onto the stage trying to defuse the conflict. She stood beside Sir Marks and politely suggest: "Sir Marks... if all they need is the proper education to master their talent, then... what about I become their teacher?" Everybody was shocked when she make that suggestion, except for the CMC who was also a little bit surprised. Sir Marks on the other hand/hoof just look annoyed and unimpressed as the only thing that was facing Twilight was his eyes. "I know I might be the perfect teacher, but I help taught them new skills before and I..."
However, Sir Marks interrupt her by putting his hoof in front of her and stated: "Princess Twilight, my apologies but don't be so childish." This left Twilight shocked and wide-eyed as he went on to explain: "It's impossible to think that a princess would help teach lowly commoner ponies. It's unheard of" No one knew what was holding back Rainbow Dash, especially because Applejack wasn't holding her back who was as mad as she is.
But before any-pony could begin to strangle any throats, a load "Wait!" was shouted out that caught everyone off guard. As everyone was looking where the voice came from, the voice shout a again and says: "Wait! Hold On!" When she heard the voice a second time, Silver Spoon's head pops up as she heard a voice she recognize. "Diamond Tiara!?" she ask aloud.
When everyone look back behind the audience, they notice Diamond Tiara running towards the stage while carrying a rolled up poster on her back. She slip in and pass the crowd and quickly make her way on stage. But when she finally got there, she was so exhausted and out of breath that it took a minute to regain herself.
"Diamond Tiara!? What are ya..." Apple Bloom ask as she was confused on why she was here.
"Not *Huff*... Another *Huff*... Word *huff*..." said Tiara as she was desperately trying to catch her breath. "Can I *Huff*... Get a *Huff*... Glass of water?" And as soon as she asked that, Silver Spoon jump at that chance and jump to her side and handed her a full glass of water. Diamond Tiara grab the that water and chug it down. Once she finish, she handed the empty glass back to Silver Spoon and told her: "*Relaxing Sigh*... Thanks Silver Spoon."
"No problem" she replied so gleefully.
Once Diamond had finally regain herself, she faced everybody and swiftly proclaims: "Now... I know the solution that fix everything."
"Wait!?... Are you trying to help us" asked a baffled Sweetie Belle, who is very much like the other Crusaders who thought they never see Diamond Tiara trying to help them.
"Yeah!" replied Diamond Tiara. And she said it so snooty and up tight, it almost like that she's secretly telling them: "I Can Be Kind!".
"Now I present to you..." she then said as she took the poster from of her back and open it up. Once everyone (CMC, Sir Marks and Twilight) leaned to look at it closer, Diamond Tiara proudly proclaims: "Diamond Tiara's School For Thee Incredibly Gifted Ponies!"
Everyone was left... baffled. They all look as if they heard something so stupid and... well, childish. The dumbstruck had even infected onto the audience even before Diamond Tiara show them the poster. It was just a image of Diamond Tiara leaning on her elbow (if ponies have elbows) in a bobble while the name of the school painted enormously across the side. Even Silver Spoon face palmed out of embarrassment. And while everyone was petrified out of the dumbness, no one seems to notice that leafs from Apple Bloom was starting to fall.
"Um... Diamond Tiara?" asked Sweetie Belle who was the first to break out of the silence.
"Don't worry Sweetie Belle" replied Tiara as she thinks that she knows what she's going to say. "If you all ask nice enough, then maybe I let you join my school."
"No... It's not that" explained Scootaloo. "It just that... It just your plan is..." She and the other Crusaders was try to come up with the right response for this. Something to tell her about what everyone thinks of her plan, but in a way that might not upset her. But unfortunately, some beat them to it.
"That Is Thee Most Idiotic And Childish Thing That I Have Ever Heard Of!" yelled Sir Marks and disregarding any disguise that he's a kind pony.
"What!?" yelled Tiara who became shocked and horrified.
"You Do Not Even Understand The COMPLEXITIES Of Running An Educational Facility!" loudly explained Sir Marks. As he took intimidating towards Diamond, he began to angrily insults. "That Was Something That A Child Would Come Up With! Actually, No! Not Even A CHILD Would Come Up With Something Like That And Thought It Would Be A Good Idea!"
Scared shitless by Sir Mark's unleashed rage, Diamond Tiara's feet was frozen in fear despite how much she wanted to move them. "But... I just wanted to help" cried Diamond Tiara as she began leaking tears.
"That Wasn't Help..." Sir Mark's argued. "... That was PLAYING-AROUND!!! " he yelled at the top of her voice.
"Hay! Ya Can't Say That!" yelled Apple Bloom who rushed in front of and guard Diamond Tiara, not even thinking twice as to who she was trying to protect. As Diamond stop crying and was realizing what was Apple Bloom doing for her, the other CMC rushes towards her's and Apple Bloom's aid.
"Yeah! Even if her idea wasn't the brightest, you can't say that she wasn't helping" yelled Scootaloo without a hint of fear.
"OF COURSE I CAN! I'M A SIR ! I'M A CONSOLER! I KNOW EVERYTHING AND YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO ME!" scream Sir Marks as he enters into a temper tantrums.
"No We Won't!" chivalrously proclaims Sweetie Belle. "We don't have to listen to you and we can choose how we want to live our lives... MR Marks!"
After Sweetie deliberately pushed the wrong button that olds any last remanent of Sir Marks sanity and maturity, Sir Marks began jumping and stomping and yelling out: "IT'S SIR! SIR, SIR, SIR, SIR, SIR, SIR, SIR! " As he continue stomping and began yelling incomprehensible nonsense, ponies began fearing the safety for the CMC and Diamond Tiara. Twilight prepares her magic and Rainbow Dash and the rest of the Mane 6 began rushing to the stage to protect them.
However, everyone stop and froze was they heard an out of nowhere tree branch snapped. Looking the closest tree in the facility, they notice that Apple Bloom's treehouse, which was over the kids on stage, was beginning to rustle and more snapping sound can be heard. As ponies was realizing what's going on, Bon Bon rose above crowd and yells out: "It's Gunna Fall!" Not exactly Bon Bon. It just gunna crumble and chunks of wood and debris will be flying everywhere.
As the whole tree began shaking violently, the crowd began to panic and tried to run as far back as they can. Sir Marks broke free from his anger and now be token over by his fear as he leaps of stage. Silver Spoon should be relative safe from where she were backstage. But as Twilight was about to leave, she double checks and see if the kids are gunna be ok. But unfortunately, they were immobilized by fear as the CMC and Diamond Tiara watch up as they couldn't believe their eyes. Changing her plans, Twilight turns around and teleport to the girl's side. She put up a magical barrier around them just in the nick of time as the tree was falling apart and everything was raining down.
Moments later, the crowd who were at a safe distance away looked back and see a giant dust cloud cover the stage. After another moment of slow realization, Applejack signal Rainbow Dash to get rid of the cloud. When she finally got the message, RD flu over and began flying around the dust cloud, scattering and disbursing it. Sir Marks who was just under the stage and Silver Spoon who was by the side began coughing out the dust from their lungs and look up to see if everyone's safe. Once all of the dust was gone, everyone was relived to see that Twilight had successfully protected the children who was under her shield.
Once everyone inside the bobble open their eyes and could see that everything was safe, Twilight lowered her shield. The sisters of the CMC rushes over to properly see if they're ok and Silver Spoon did the same thing with Diamond Tiara. And fortunately, they were.
Once everyone notice the scattered debris everywhere around them, Apple Bloom look at the spot where her treehouse once were and ask:
"What Happened?"
Zecora appeared and examined the potions Apple Bloom used for her presentation. Once she was done, she turned towards Apple Bloom and explains in her own way:
"The reason why your tree fall apart in such a fast rate, is because your potions has passed their expiration date."
"What!" replied Apple Bloom as she became horrified because of her mistake. "But... I thought... I double check an'..."
Seeing her about to panic, Zecora calm her down and reiterate: "Don't worry about your mistake, because it was something any-pony would make. The potion that just passed, had a few seconds to last." What she means is that the potions that she just used had expired just a couple of seconds ago .
"See! I Told You! If you ponies had just listen to me and go to the schools I assigned to you, then this..." cried out Sir Marks, trying to prove that he still knows what's best. However, no pony was listening to him rambling of in the distance.
As everyone look at Apple Bloom who was still feeling down about her mistake, Sweetie Belle notice and shouted:
"Apple Bloom! Your Cape!"
"What!" was all that she replied as she and everyone else look at her cape and notice that it was completely ruined. Some of the debris must have slipped pass and tore up her cape. But mysteriously and conveniently, it didn't harm Apple Bloom.
"OH No! My Crusader cape" Apple Bloom cried out as she had now lost something memorable.
"Don't worry Apple Bloom." explained Twilight. "The important thing is that your ok."
"Yeah! And Besides: I can always make you a new one" added Rarity, who helped Apple Bloom feel better.
Being surround by her friends made Apple Bloom feel something warm inside. Twilight is right. Her cape is really important to her, it's her friends that mattered.
Applejack come over to her sister and told her: "Don't ya think it's about time to take it off."
"Oh Right!" yelled Apple Bloom who remembered something important. "I haven't shown any-pony my cutie mark"
Sweetie Belle said: "Oh Yeah!" as she also realize that she haven't see her cutie mark.
"Come on, take it off" cried Scootaloo who was eager to see what it is.
"Hang On! I want to see it too" cried Diamond Tiara as she and Silver Spoon rushes over.
Everyone stood around Apple Bloom, which she found a bit embarrassing and was a bit shy. Someone used their magic to untie the knot around Apple Bloom's neck and slowly takes the ruined cape away. And once the cape was gone, everyone looks at Apple Bloom's flank (... pa Ha Ha Ha Ha!) and see:...... the Cutie Mark Crusader's logo.
"Apple Bloom!" yelled Sweetie Belle in surprise. "Why did you say that your cutie mark is our logo?"
Apple Bloom replied: "Wait, What!?" in total surprise. When she look around to see what she's on about, she became as shockingly surprise as everyone else. "This... This isn't my cutie Mark."
Everyone gasp in disbelief. Even Sir Marks stop yapping whatever the is he was yapping and look over to this unbelievable discovery.
Apple Bloom explains: "My cutie mark was suppose to be a tractor with an apple".
"Is this true Applejack?" ask Rarity who is as disbelief as everyone else.
"... Yeah!" replied Applejack who made the whole thing more shocking and confusing.
Everyone was trying to make sense of this. For the first time in Equestrian history, a pony's cutie mark has change. And yet, this won't be the last either. As everyone was flabbergasted, Rarity unintentionally drift her gaze towards her sister Sweetie Belle and find the next amazing discovery.
"Sweetie Belle! Your cutie mark!" yelled Rarity as she point towards it. When everyone turned their gaze towards frighten Sweetie Belle, they notice... that her cutie mark changed too.
When she turn to see it too, she was speechless as the cutie mark that she was accustomed to was no more. And in it's place is... the CMC's logo. Ok, it doesn't look exactly like the logo but it's mistakenly close. The pony in the symbol remained the same, but instead of a crest which the pony was in was replace and shape like a blue bell.
Seeing the other remarkable discovery, everyone realize something and look at Scootaloo. Without even need being told, Scootaloo look at her cutie mark and discovered that her has changed as well... and it's the CMC logo too. It wasn't exactly the same as the logo, just like Sweetie Belle's. The difference is that her's emblem is a shield but it still have the pony inside of it.
As the CMC was look at their changed cutie marks, something dawned on them. All three members of the Cutie Mark Crusaders has their cutie marks change and turned into their symbol. They fought what they thought was true and now fate rewarded them to signify that what they did was right. "Yeah!" they all shouted as were exited as something so amazing happened to them. They jump for joy as their marks signifying that they are united, proof of their friendship and nothing will ever tear them...
"That's Impossible!" shouted Sir Marks who interrupted me (Thank you man. I didn't know what I was supposed to be writing there). He storms up to everyone, point to the CMC and explains: "It's Impossible! Cutie marks can not change like this. And it's impossible for three ponies to have the same marks!" As he said that, the CMC re-examine their marks. They were still happy with the change, but they were also curious on how it happened.
Finally have enough with him, Rainbow Dash flu above everyone and began fighting back. "You know what? We just about have enough with you. yeah, sure . It's certainly is unbelievable, but's amazing and cool. And besides, how do you know that it's "impossible"."
"Because, I'm a Cutie! Mark! CHONSOLER!" Sir Marks angrily explains. "I know everything about cutie mark. I'm certified to know everything about cutie mark. Even my cutie mark can prove that I'm... AHHHH! "
But as soon as he point towards his own cutie mark, Sir Mark looked around and discover something more terrifying then he could imagined... his cutie mark was gone.
As everyone look at the blank flank of Mr Marks, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon began to grin to each other as they was about some good old revenge... served cold.
"Oh look, Silver Spoon" Diamond Tiara said as she began circling around Mr Marks.
"What Diamond Tiara? " Silver Spoon asked sarcastingly.
"It looks like someone lost their cutie marks"
"Oh No " Silver Spoon replied sarcastingly as Mr Marks was slowly becoming intimidated. "Is it not having a cutie mark supposed to mean that your mature and grown-up?"
"Why it is, Silver Spoon" Diamond mockingly replied. "But..." she added while pretending to be worried. "... Isn't it supposed to be kids the only ones who don't have cutie mark?"
"You're right Diamond Tiara" replied Silver Spoon as she and Diamond come and stood together in front of a frighten Mr Mark. "And isn't there a name that we like to call ponies who don't have their cutie marks?"
Diamond Tiara grinned so gleefully as she thought that she would never get say these word again. Saying it together with Silver Spoon, the both began calling Mr Marks with great irony:
"Blank-Flank! Blank-Flank! Blank-Flank!"
Their insults penetrated Mr Marks mind as he feels the power that he had was gone. The mares around personally doesn't approve on the insulting, but they stood there smiling as they felt that he deserves it. Unable to endure it any longer, Fine Marks runs away. He jumps of stage, run pass the crowd and flee to some place that is far away from any insults.
"Blank-Flank! Blank-Flank! Blank-Flank!" Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon continued to shout out. Apple Bloom and the rest of the CMC stop them to signify that he is long gone. Once they stop, they had smiles on their faces and Diamond Tiara even added: "See... I told you it was funny." However, Silver Spoon and the CMC just rolled their eyes.
~~~
After the whole fiasco, the fair returned in full swing and were ponies enjoying themselves better then before. The fair continued into the evening and lights covered the sky. Back towards the stage, whatever what was left of Apple Bloom was quickly swept away and Pinkie Pie was performing on stage to keep the ponies happy. She was singing "This is your birthday party", but obviously she removed anything birthday related in the song and replace them with some just as cheerful.
Back at backstage, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo was close together and discussing about various things. As they were talking, they didn't notice that Twilight crept up behind and pleasantly surprised them.
"Why hello girls" she kindly called out that startled them.
Once they got over the surprise, they realize that it was Twilight and Apple Bloom happily reply: "Oh! Hi Twilight"
"Oh, so what are you talking about?" ask Twilight. "Is it that now that you have your new cutie marks, you are gunna find out what your new talents are and figure out how you are gunna use them?"
The CMC had quick glances at each other before Apple Bloom would give their response:
"Actually Twilight... we figured that we would do all that stuff later."
"Really!?" replied Twilight who was pleasantly surprise.
"I mean, we defiantly are gunna do it..." explained Scootaloo. "... it just that after the whole experience we just went through, we learned something."
"And what's that?" she ask curiously.
Sweetie Belle reply: "Well... we learned that the moments we have don't last forever. We decided that we should take our time and enjoy our moments as best as we can while we still have them."
"Oh... Ok" reply Twilight who was happy to hear that. She then said: "Well I'm just happy that your having fun" and then leave them to continue whatever it is they were doing. As she was leaving, Twilight smiles as she was happy that they finally learned their lesson about taking their time and taking it slow.
As Twilight was exiting backstage, she come across Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon going to the place she just came from. Believe that they are ok, she left them and thought nothing off it. The CMC was happy when they continued chatting, but that was over once they saw DT and Silver Spoon.
"Oh look Silver Spoon, glad to see some-pony is finally over it" said Diamond Tiara arrogantly yet sincerely.
"*huff*... what do you want Diamond Tiara?" ask Apple Bloom very depressingly.
feeling upset, DT asked back: "Is that what you say after when some-pony try to help ya?"
"You mean with that plan of yours?" replied Scootaloo.
"Ok! I Know! It was a stupid plan. Can we please forget about it" pleaded Tiara as she became embarrass. Silver Spoon snickered and stop when Tiara gave her an angry glance, but she couldn't stop smiling.
Once she regained herself, Diamond Tiara answered Apple Bloom's question. "Well since you losers finally got your cutie mars, and after all of that, we decided to allow you to hang with us" she said while maintaining her superior attitude.
"You want us to be your friend?" Sweetie Belle retorted. "Why would we after all the insults and bullying you did to us?" she ask while getting upset.
She didn't like that reply, however she can understand where she was coming from. Diamond Tiara swallowed her pride and told them: "*Huff* Fine... We're sorr..."
However, Sweetie interrupted her and says: "Don't worry about it. We already forgiven you"
"What!" Diamond yelled, getting upset.
"Your plan was still stupid..." Scootaloo explains. "... but we know that you were trying help us."
Apple Bloom jumped in and added: "Honestly... We didn't even expect that ya would do anything like that"
Tiara huffed in anger. She went to them and trying to be kind, and they were just playing her. As she was about storm off, Sweetie stops her and says: "Oh come on. At least stay to watch our performance".
After a moment to have a thought about it, Diamond Tiara begrudgingly replied: "Fine"
~~~
Moments later, Pinkie Pie finish singing and address the ponies who were around.
"Now Mare And Gentle-Cults, It's Time For The Special Performance From The Special Foals Of The Evening:... The Cutie Mark Crusaders!"
Pinkie leapt off the stage as the curtain rises. Three light shot out and revealed Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. However, something about where they place themselves was making them remember a bad, thought forgotten memory. With one pony on a tiny podium and the others on either side. It making them remember... The Showstoppers performance.
However this time, it was different. Sweetie Belle and she was the one singing and she was singing fantastically. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo was dancing and sort of singing by the side and they finally have good choreography. This time, they were singing their song that they made at the talent show they performed all those years ago and they were making a better performance then they did then.
The audience was caught of guard by how good they were. The bad memory was replace by this good one and they were enjoying it. Of in the side, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon was dancing and incorporating their "bump lump sugar lump rump" hoof shake into it. Off at the back of their crown, Applejack, Rarity and Rainbow Dash got together and was watching their little sisters having their time of their lives.
Twilight joined and was watching along with them. However, as she was watching the performance, she notice something sparkling above in the night sky. Twilight was the only one noticing this but didn't tell anyone in fear that she would distract them of the CMC's performance. When she squinted her eyes and try to focus in, Twilight saw a tiny pony hovering over everyone. She was flying or levitating, but Twilight couldn't see any wings or a horn. The only thing that she has was a paint brush. In fact, when she focus even harder, Twilight notice the little pony was a ghost. When the tiny ghost pony spotted watching her, she smiles and fly off into the night sky. Twilight soon realize who the spectre pony was and she quietly keeps it a secret.
Back at the performance, the crowd was cheering as the CMC was making their climax of their performance. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo jump closer together and sang out as loud as they can:
"We Are The Cutie Mark Crusaders, And We Didn't Stop Until We Got Our Cutie Marks!"
THE END
Part 4- Cutie Mark Trails 2
The Final Crusade
Cutie Mark Trials
Previously On The Final Crusade
The Cutie Mark Crusaders split up and left Ponyvile to go to their assigned mentors along with their unexpected older sisters who decided to chaperone them... along with Rainbow Dash. Scootaloo was told that she can't fly for a few more years by her mentor but says he has something else she can do instead. Sweetie Belle lost her GOOD singing voice and so Sapphire Shores wants to try to find it. Apple Bloom met her one of her distant uncles for the first time and he told her she can't get her work experience because of a lack of materials. So instead, Apple Bloom decides to fix a old, rusted down tractor which nobody could be able to fix and Applejack decided to help her.
And Now, The Story
~~~
Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash follow Iron Wings who took them away from the flight school and took them to a location which even Rainbow Dash haven't been to before. He took them to the edge and above Cloudsdale, away from the Greek architectured buildings and to a very large patch of cloud which you wouldn't be able to see what's on it unless... you were on it. Once they arrive, Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash discovered something that left them so shocked, so stunned, it was liked they were hit by a lightning bolt; The world's largest skate park.
It was like someone dug out a huge portion of the cloud and decided to fill it with half-pips and quarter-pips. There were Ramps of all different curves is everywhere that you can see. Some are so curled, it's impossible to jump up from or could even be considered to be tunnels. As for the actual tunnels, there were hazards placed on the bottom such as rocks or big gapping holes that made you have to ride on the sides or on the ceilings.
The were railings that covered around the whole park to protect people... I mean ponies who were just watching. But if they were meant to protect, you be asking why there were railings that were dab middle in some of the skateboarding tracks or pools. And just on the outside, there was a race track that looks like it was meant for cyclists.
But the real main attraction is a giant and steep daredevil slope that goes across the park and leads you to a ramp that would make you fly off the cloud if you weren't able to fly.
But what made RD and Scoot' even more jaw dropping shocked is that the place is jammed packed with skateboarding pegasi . Ponies were on skateboards, roller blades and the like and they were using their wings just like how Scootaloo use her wings when she is on her scooter. One pegasus on a skateboard skated through the tunnel like ramps like he was a surfer surfing on water and another who was using rollerblades did the splits when they went through the actual tunnel with the holes. A group went through a loopty loop while one pegasus fly though it on a bike without colliding into anyone. Some of them looked like the ponified versions of Tony Hawks, Kick Buttowski and Zeke and Luther .
For so long, Scootaloo felt like she was on her own because of what she does. She knows that scootering was something special and something cool, but felt lonely as she never have she seen any pony else does the stuff that she does. But now, she felt like that she found the world where she was meant to be in.
"Scootaloo, I welcome you to the world... of Daredevil Ponies " said Iron Wings who presented this new world to her.
"Daredevil Ponies!?" Scootaloo asked in curiosity and excitement.
Iron Wing took RD and Scootaloo closer to the action and quickly crossing the race track. Once they crossed over, a group of ponies who were on bikes and roller blades races past them.
"You see Scootaloo,..." Iron says as he began to explain. "... Daredevil Ponies are ponies who don't use their natural talent like flight or magic and use other equipment and gear to do DEATH DEFYING STUNTS!!!
"Oh Yeah!" Rainbow Dash shouted as she remember something. "Is this like what you told us years ago, about when... you... OH!" RD stopped when she remembered the thing that she intentionally pushed out of her mind years ago when she was still in school.
"Yeah!" Iron Wing replied who was happy that his ex-student remembered. "I use to be a bit of a daredevil in my younger years. In fact, I'm starting to take a picture of my younger self everywhere I go".
He took the picture that he mentions out of one of his pockets and gave it to Scootaloo, who was curios on what he is on about. The picture was of Iron Wings who was water-skiing on, well, water. However (and this what gave Rainbow Dash and other students nightmares), he was wearing a swim suit that was tight around his...... You know what, I'm not gunna finish that sentence because you know what I already have you imagined. After seeing IT , a horrified Scootaloo quietly pass the photo back to Iron Wings.
Iron quickly snaps Scootaloo out of her nightmare and told her: "Don't you see Scootaloo. These ponies aren't flying, but there are even more cooler then the ponies who are."
"No, there not cool, THERE ARE AWESOME!!" Rainbow Dash added.
"Yeah, I know" replied Scootaloo. "I thought I was the only pony who does this sort of stuff." She then says "Daredevil ponies" as she west on the railing in pure happyness
However, Iron snaps Scootaloo away from her star struck daze and told her: "Well we better get started"
"Wait! What!!" Scootaloo replied in shock
"Well we can't just stand here and watch. We need to get close to the action. Close to the danger
The way that Iron Wings said "danger" snapped Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo back to reality and that, this is really, really dangerous. They look back at the skate park and begin to notice all the hazards in it. As for the aforementioned rocks and holes, there was also wet oil on the tracks, walls and other things that would block your path and begin to see injured ponies who just barely pick themselves off and onto the ramps and quickly pass out afterwards.
"Oh don't worry. No way we let her go through "The Course ." She is way too young and inexperience for that" Iron stated, easing some of their worries. But then he said: "... But she can't go on the child ramps."
"OOH! I know!" Iron Wings stated that made them worried again. "She'll go on "Icarus Drop!" "
Rainbow and Scootaloo hesitantly look up on what Iron Wings was looking it and was horrified to see that he means the giant daredevil slope. Scootaloo must go down that giant daredevil slope.
~~~
Back at Canterlot, you could hear sounds of a shrieking baby that's swallowed a microphone. Oh wait! My mistake. It was actually Sweetie Belle trying to sing one of the songs she sang before but this time (the "Perfect Stallion" to be precise), but it sounds horrible this time.
"No! No! No! You need to be softer, more gentle. Try to imagine the scene when you hear the lyrics and imagined how you feel when you are in that scene" instructed Sapphire Shores, who never before had she worked this hard to get a pony's tone correctly.
Finally, Sweetie stopped singing as her throat was getting sour. She managed to coughed: "*cough* *cough* Can I please get a drink of water... please?"
Not wanting Sweetie to suffer, Sapphire replied "Sure hun', take five"
Sweetie Belle softly walk over Rarity, who had the glass and jug of water. However, Rarity were frantically trying to fix the glass with here magic. She just managed to fix the cracks when Sweetie finally approach her. But at this moments, Rarity got herself a bit messed up from using a magic she wasn't accustomed to and felt totally embarrass. But fortunately, it wasn't bad enough which a quick spruce up couldn't fix. In fact, because she was Rarity, the best fashion pony in Equestria, she actually looked a bit better then before.
However, she didn't let her ego get to herself as she saw Sweetie Belle pour herself a glass of water with her magic. Rarity could see the sad expression on her sister's face as she wasn't having a good time.
"Sweetie dear, what's wrong? Is there something troubling you?" Rarity asked, putting the most concerned that she can as she said it.
"No... It's nothing" Sweetie replied as she wasn't very good to hide the lie. "It just that... I knew that I wasn't good at singing."
"What are you talking about?" Rarity replied. "You sung plenty of times and you wasn't that bad."
"I know, but it just that... It just that whenever I try to sing to a crowd, I just mess everything" rebutted a depress Sweetie Belle.
As Rarity was looking for a reply that she can give, even managing to say "But you...", Sapphire Shores interrupted their conversation to make an announcement.
"Actually hunnies, we got to make that a ten because I need the little mare's room" she announce as she fast-walk towards the door. Just then, Sweetie began to feel something.
"You know what, I actually need to use the rest room too."
Sweetie Belle quickly follow Sapphire Shore out of the room, leaving Rarity alone in a big empty room. This was unsettling for her, only because this gave room for Rarity to doubt herself. She wonders what she could have said before Sapphire interrupted could have convinced Sweetie or if it wouldn't. But as the doubt was starting to take hold, Rarity quickly shakes it off.
"Do not worry Rarity" which Rarity said to herself. "Your a good big sister and you can fix any problem which Sweetie may have" she said to boost her confidents. After making a sigh to relieve some of the tension within herself, she says to herself: "You need to keep you mind of things for now." She took out a note book she as with her which has all her rough sketches of her latest designs. As she was about to make a bit more work on it, she quickly realize that she was talking to herself and somebody (I mean some pony) could have heard her. Worst yet, she referred to herself in the third person. However, she pushed that thought aside and got her mind to focus by walking on her designs.
~~~
Meanwhile, at Appaloosa, ponies was working hard on their jobs as the town is trying to slowly expand. However, some ponies who was walking pass the shed which Apple Bloom and Applejack was fixing Old Bessie couldn't help to stop and listen the sounds that were coming from it. After a series of sounds from power drills, clanks and other sounds which you would hear from a car garage, ponies and buffalo began to her hear load voices from it. However, they couldn't catch the full sentences.
"No Apple... That Doesn't Go There! It Meant To Be..."
"But... And You Said..."
"... Ok. Just..."
"WAIT!! IS IT SMOKING!?!?" Shouted a voice which sounded like Applejack
"IT'S GUNNA BLOW!!!" Screamed a voice which was definitely was from Apple Bloom.
Then, Apple Bloom, followed by Applejack, legged it out of the shed as fast as they can as they can. Just then, the shed exploded with black smoke which pushed the Apple Sisters forward. Luckily, both of them was ok as only smoke hit them and landed on soft enough ground. Once ponies gone up to them to see if they're ok, everyone looked back at the explosion which the area is completely covered in black smoke. However, to everyone surprise, the shed remained intact. But what's was even more surprising, through the fading smoke, the tractor was still in one piece.
Although it was hard to see, but once the smoke dissipated enough for ponies to get closer, they could see it was still intact. No one dared to have a proper examination... except for Uncle Apple Seed. Once all of the smoke was gone, Uncle Seed was the first one to step inside but the Apple sisters watched from the door.
"Well... She finally did something" Uncle Seed remarked as he knock his hoof on the tractor.
"AWWW SHOOT!! I knew I couldn't fix her, but I did it anyway" Apple Bloom shouted in frustration and disappointment.
"Not necessarily, Apple Bloom" Uncle Seed interjected. "Ya did do something. Y'all did got her to explode everything that was left inside of her."
Apple Bloom could see where he was coming from. She manage to exorcise any unused gas or any other damaging chemicals that was left inside of Bessie. However, Apple Bloom find it hard to believe that was what happened.
"Well Um..." Applejack muttered. "Do ya think it's safe to continue?"
"Hmmm...? I guess? Ya just have to be more careful" he replied after he made a quick scan of the room.
As Uncle Seed left the she shed and leave the Apple sisters back to their own devices, everyone follow suit and return back to their daily lives. Apple Bloom however was still beating herself up. She did expected that she would make an explosion. It was one thing for to try and failed, but it's another when you tried and make things worse then before.
Applejack snapped Apple Bloom out of her depression by asking: "Well what do ya want to do? Do ya want to try again?" When Apple Bloom looked at her sister, she could see a hopeful smile that was on her face. "... Or do ya want to give up?"
"*Deep Sigh*... Let's try this again" Apple Bloom replied with lingering despair.
"Well That's What I Want To Hear!" Applejack yelled with joy before slowly rushing back to work. Apple Bloom follow suit along with the doubt that was growing in her mind.
~~~
Back up above the clouds, above even Cloudsdale, Scootaloo (not literally) was wetting herself as she was looking down off of Icarus Drop. She was on top of the daredevil slope and even though they were already in the clouds, from her perspective, the other ponies looked more like ants. The only thing that she was holding was her scooter, but there was enough space around her and there were guards that stop her from being blown off. Rainbow Dash was standing beside her, but she was also scared as she was looking down the slide. Not of her own safety, but for Scootaloo's.
Both of them looked down the slide and could see that it was a long way down. The edges were several meters apart so there was room to move around a bit as you were going down, but there was nothing protecting you from falling off. Scootaloo went down plenty of slopes before, and plenty of times where she went to fast the she lost control and crash. But this... She knows that if she go down it with her scooter, she wouldn't know what would happen to her.
Iron Wings appeared up in front of her and asks: "Well kid, Are! You! Ready!?"
The only words that Scootaloo was able to say was um's. Even though before she liked to test the limits of her skill and see how close she can get to danger. But this was something that she don't want to do. She feels that she is compelled to do this, to get her cutie mark and not to let down her friends. But she was too terrified to do this.
Scootaloo replied: "Umm... Isn't there enough air here? It's like we are already in space"
"Oh Pft! Pegasi can survive living virtually any height. We can even breath with barely any air" Iron Wings replied back. And don't take what he said too seriously. Pegasi can breath with little air, but not in space...... But there is enough air for them to breath.
Iron pulled a reluctant Scootaloo under his wing and closer to the edge. "Do you see that Scootaloo?" he asked as he point to a cloud off from where they are on. Scootaloo trailed her sight down the slide and off the ramp at the end and see a small island cloud off in the distance. "You are just gunna slide down Icarus Drop and jump of and you must try to land on that cloud" he explained
Then uncomplainingly for Scootaloo, Iron pulled off away from her and stand by the side and leaving her by the edge. The only thing that he said was: "You can go when you're ready". She was frozen there, petrified by her own fear. Even Rainbow Dash was bitting her nails off of her... hooves?
Thinking of a way to get out of this, Scootaloo came up with an excuse and ask: "You know what!? I think that I need to check on my scooter and see if it's ok? Maybe should get down and take it apart to see if it's alright?"
"OH Right! Silly me" Iron Wings replied as he smacked himself on his head. "Safety first when you endanger your own life."
Scootaloo thought that this was her moment to escape from doing this. However, Iron Wings snatches Scootaloo's scooter away from her to expect it. "Hmm... Not bad. But you need something more sturdier then this to make it down" is what he said. Then, he passes the scooter to some pony off screen and tampering sounds was heard. Once the sounds has finished, the off screen pony hand back Scootaloo's scooter back to Iron who then gives it back to Scootaloo.
When Scootaloo got her scooter back, she could instantly notice the work that has been done on it. The metal that was on it was replaced by a stain-less, even better metal. The wheels was also replaced by a pair that wouldn't be so easily break or would come off. It was also easier to turn the handlebars and isn't so slippery that she would loose control. The only thing that wasn't replaced was the wood, but even then, it was in a frame so it wouldn't snap.
After she admired her new and improved scooter, Scootaloo realized that she has no more excuses. She could see Iron's face who was eager to see her to go down the slope. She also notice the ponies that was down below them who was now watching them to see what will happen. She even thought that Rainbow Dash would try to stop her and she was very much concerned for her. However, Iron Wings is stopping her and gently holding her back with a hoof, trying to say that she needs to do this on her own.
Scootaloo stood on top of Icarus Drop, watching down the thing that she is terrified of. She hesitantly centered herself in the middle of the platform nerve rackingly place herself on top of her scooter. The scene was so tense, it could easily clog some ponies throats. Scootaloo wasn't panicking, but she was slowly loosing herself as she was breathing deeper and deeper.
Just as Scootaloo was starting to make move forwards, as the wheel on scooter was starting to turn, she chickened out. She jumped back and lung towards her idol, Rainbow Dash. She rapped her hooves around Rainbow Dash's feet, begging, crying.
"PLEASE!!! Don't Make Me Go Down It!!!" She cried out as she begins to tear up
Horrified expressions were on Rainbow Dash and Iron Wing while the ponies down below was confused as to what's going on. As RD looked towards her old teacher, Iron was horrified with himself as he realize what he was trying to do.
~~~
Sweetie Belle was relieved that she managed to find the toilets in time. When she left the stall and head for the faucet to wash up (like a good little girl), she took her time to admire her surrounding. She expected that all of Canterlot was fancy and imagined really posh restrooms, but Sapphire Shore's was really subdued all things considered. I mean, there were glittering toilets, marble tiles and everything was cleaned white, but there wasn't any chandeliers or murals on the wall. But then again, Sapphire isn't the unseal fancy pants Canterlot pony and Sweetie realized that.
Then suddenly, as she was washing her... hooves, Sweetie began hearing music coming from the other rooms. She was confused at first, but as she was hearing the music, the more she grew to like it. In fact, she was really getting into it.
The beat was simular to the real life song: Blue Da Be Dee but it has Sapphire Shores voice. The lyrics was also different. She was singing that she was blue, but she was saying/singing it like it was a complement. "I'm Blue, Like A Shinning Blue Sapphire Diamond!"
Before she could know it, Sweetie Belle was dancing to it and dancing to it, shaking side to side. It was the first time that she was hearing Sapphire Shore's music and she discovered why people like her songs. She would argue that it isn't better then one of her favourites, but it was certainty becoming one of them. As the funky rhythm began to taking over her brain, she magically began to sing. Singing, and she was good. She was singing like an up beat angel, perfectly synchronizing to the music and would lighten anybody's mood if they were hearing her.
"I'm Blue, Like A Magically Blue Bell!" Sweetie Belle sang out, feeling the happiest then she felt in a while.
But then, ruining her mood and surprising her, a voice shouted out in the other stall besides here's and said: "AHA! I Knew It!" Then Sapphire Shores but out of it and shouted: "I Knew You Had That Voice In Ya!"
"What! Sapphire! What! Why are you here?" Sweetie reacted when she realized Sapphire Shores was listening to her. She thought that they were separated and went to different bathrooms. She remembered that they split up to head down to different corridors and thought that she went to her own private one.
"Sweetie,..." she began to reply. "... you're in my bathroom." And she was right. If you checked the sign on the door, you could see an outlined imaged on Sapphire Shore's face.
Sapphire stair intensely at Sweetie Belle, waiting for an answer. She knew that it was an accident. She knew that Sweetie was deliberately trying to sound bad. It was at this moment that Sweetie realized that she can't hide her secret any longer.
"*Sigh of defeat*... I can sing. I can sing better then I let on" she admitted. "I didn't want ponies to know that I can sing really well.
"But Sweetie... Why do you want to hide such a wonderful singing voice?" Sapphire asked in confusion.
After giving another sigh of defeat, Sweetie Belle answered: "It was because of my sister" which got Sapphire Shores to become intrigued. She explains: "One day, as I was playing around the house, I discovered Rarity as she was working on one of her dresses. She was singing while she worked and she was... Amazing. She sang so good and her talent wasn't even singing. It was then that I realized that I can't be compared to my sister."
As Sweetie looked down in depression, Sapphire Shores felt pity for her and says: "Oh Sweetie... I know how you feel." When she looked up to see what she means, Sapphire explains: "I know how you feel like Sweetie. In a world of pop stars and singers, it's very hard to get ponies to pick your music over others. There have been several times that I gotten second place to getting awards.
Sweetie smiled as she felt like that she was relating to Sapphire Shores. However, Sapphire grab her attention and look at her with a stern expression. "But listen, no matter how many times that ponies picked some ponies else's music over mine, or get out staged, I never give up. No matter what, I always tried to make myself heard. It's better then to be heard and thought that you sounded badly and never to be heard at all." Sweetie didn't know what to think or how to reply. She didn't want to admit it to herself, but she was sort of moved.
But then, Sapphire Shores shouted: "Ooh! Brain Storm" which surprised Sweetie Belle. "You are gunna tell Rarity what you told me"
"What!" Sweetie yelled in unexpected-ness. Even though she didn't wanted to, she felt ok to tell Sapphire Shores how she feels. But no way can she tell that to Rarity.
"Uh Uh Uh! No getting out of it. I'm taking you to your sister and you are going to tell her what you told me" stated Sapphire Shores before she began to push Sweetie Belle out of the room.
~~~
Apple Bloom and Applejack was trying to start Old Bessie outside of the shed. Even though the shed was still standing, Applejack declared it might be too dangerous to work inside. There weren't either, as some ponies who was supposed to be working was watching them as was amazed to see how far they gotten.
Apple Bloom got out from under the tractor after doing some tinkering and shouted at Applejack on top:
"OK! Give it a shot!"
Applejack, who was sitting firmly on top of Bessie's set, twist the key and try to start up the engine. It rattle and clank, making sounds that wouldn't normally be from a healthy engine, but nothing bad was happening. Everyone else was certainly astounded as they couldn't get it to that far without something blowing. However, despite all their progress, it still wouldn't start. Applejack tried several but it wouldn't work. In fact, her last try before giving up didn't made any sounds.
"GARSH DARN-IT!!" the sisters yelled in unison.
Apple Bloom walked several steps away in frustration and yell: "We Made It This Far And We Still Couldn't Fix It!"
"Oh come on Apple Bloom, we can't give up now" Applejack replied back.
"But why bothered" she argued back. "We'd been trying all day and we still failed despite all the progress we made. She
Just Too Damned Rusty!" Apple Bloom then slump over in defeat and added softly so Applejack couldn't hear her: "... and we still have a better chance then finding my cutie mark."
Applejack, who obviously did hear her, became cross and stormed up to Apple Bloom. She grabbed her sister attention and said: "Apple Bloom! Listen!" Intimated, Apple Bloom did what she told and Applejack got them to sit down facing each other.
"Ok, I don't like bragging mine or my friends accomplishments, but listen" Applejack stated. She then asked: "Did Twilight gave up when she was fightin' Discord or Tirek?"
"No" Apple Bloom replied admittingly.
"Did Fluttershy gave up when she and the other pegasi delivered water to Cloudsdale?"
"No" she admitted again
"Or did WE gave up when we went on the worst road trip in our entire lives?"
"No!" Apple Bloom who was starting to realize what Applejack trying to say.
She got Apple Bloom's attention with a concerned and caring look and told her: "But the thing that I'm most amazed is you and your friends who never gave up on your cutie marks". Apple Bloom fell back into a bummed attitude from hearing that, but she was her and the Cutie Mark Crusaders that amazed her. "When I was ya age, I'd never did all of those wacky crusades or had any friends that helped me. Heck! I find mine by a complete accident. I believe that you can do it. That's the honest truth."
Apple Bloom was confused. On the train, fixing the tractor and now. Her sister is having so much faith in her and she didn't know what to think of it. She didn't want to disappoint her sister, but she knows that she was wrong before. But deep down, she got an persistant feeling that she might be right.
Applejack got up, brush herself off and then ask: "SO!... Do ya want to get back to work or go and have a break?"
"I..." Apple Bloom was about to reply before her stomach was about to growl. Honestly, she was thinking to get back to work. But however...
"Ya know what! I can go for a bite to eat." Applejack became happy and the two Apple Sisters went off in search for food.
~~~
Water was dripping but it wasn't from below the clouds. Scootaloo bust down in tear over failing to go down Icarus Drop, and everyone else wasn't feeling happy with themselves either. Rainbow Dash was holding Scootaloo with her wings and hooves as she was letting her cry on her. But honestly, she wasn't feeling comfortable as she had never done it before. However, the one that is arguably the most upset was Iron Wings. He realize that he was pressuring a little kid to go down a life threatening stunt and he was beating himself over it.
"Scootaloo... I'm so sorry" apologized Iron Wings. "I sometimes forget how my students were feeling and now I'm..."
"No..." Scootaloo interjected as she began to cry less. "...You were just trying to help... right?..." Iron, however, wasn't so sure.
Rainbow Dash, finally thinking this is her chance to give Scootaloo a motivational discussion, turned her head and faced Iron.
"Can you give us a few minutes alone?"
"Oh! Ok, sure?!" he replied in surprised. Although he feels he did something wrong, he didn't expect to be pushed away so soon. Maybe it was because it was his former student that he thought he knew was the one to tell him to leave them alone.
After Iron Wings fly off the platform and head back down, Rainbow got Scootaloo away from under her wing and turn to face her to have a proper discussion. Not the one to know from these situations, she felt that she need to know how Scootaloo is feeling.
"So, um... hey? How are you feeling Scootaloo?" she asked softly.
"Terrible!" she replied quickly. "I can't fly, too scared to do anything and I can't get my cutie mark"
"Hey Now!" Rainbow interjected. "You can fly and do all those stuff an..."
"Yeah! Some Day !" Scootaloo interrupted. "But every day that goes by, it fell like that what I can do becomes less an' less... Until..." is what she said before she started making more tears.
As she watches Scootaloo busting down in tears again, Rainbow Dash can no longer stand seeing her so depress. Rainbow searches deep down inside of her self to find the words that she needs and once she was confident that she picked the right ones, she let them out. She kneeled down to Scootaloo and ripped away a tear to get her attention.
"Ok, listen. When was way younger, maybe even younger then you, I felt like that I'M not good enough to do anything. I wasn't fast enough that I wanted and I crash so much that ponies up here liked to call me *groaned* "Rainbow-Crash.""
Scootaloo stopped crying as she gasped in disbelieving. She was honestly thinking that Rainbow Dash was telling her lies: "What! No, don't lie! No pony that is as awesome as you was called "Rainbow-Crash."
"Nope, they did. Just ask Iron" Rainbow Dash replied back. "But do you know how I became as awesome as I am now?"
Scootaloo shook her head and said: "No."
Rainbow Dash placed a hoof on Scootaloo's shoulder and said: "I kept trying". She continued and explained: "I trained so hard so that no-pony dared to call be Rainbow-Crash. In fact, look at Fluttershy. She was one of the slowest pegasi in the world, but since she tried to keep up with me, she can actually catch up to me now."
Scootaloo was actually being moved by Rainbow Dash's speech. She didn't know if her idol was telling the truth or was saying words to make her feel better. But she is thinking that she's starting to see things.
To finish up her point, Rainbow Dash final statement to Scootaloo: "Unless we keep on trying, we can't be better ponies."
Rainbow Dash stood up in front of Scootaloo and ask: "So are you going to try..." Then she realized and turned towards the menacing slope that was behind her. "...that"
Scootaloo began to panic. "But That is!... THAT IS!..." Rainbow Dash was thinking on how she could make this any better until she came up with and said:
"Don't worry, I will catch you".
"What!" Scootaloo replied.
"I'll fly down beside you and if you were to crash and fall, I will save you" Rainbow Dash explained.
"But..."
"Hay! I'm Rainbow Dash! The Fastest Flyer In Equestria! I can catch up to anyone" She proclaims boastfully. Scootaloo sincerely thinks Rainbow Dash is the fasted flyer.
Still some reserves in her mind, Scootaloo picked herself up from the platform. When she spotted her scooter, she picked it up to help boost her confidents. She then took a shaky but helpful deep breath before strongly proclaiming: "Let's Do This!"
~~~
Back at Canterlot, Sapphire Shores took Sweetie Belle to Rarity and even though it took a bit of prodding, was telling Rarity why she was singling badly on purpose. As she Rarity was listening, her expression was becoming even more shocked.
"... and that's why I was singing badly" Sweetie Belle said as she was finishing explaining.
"Oh Sweetie Belle!" Rarity cried sorrowfully as she pulled her sister in for a hug. "You should never think like that." Despite being startled at first, Sweetie Belle warmly embrace her sister's hug. But she became startled again when she heard her sister said:
"Especially since I think your the better singer."
Sweetie Belle pulled away from the hug and yelled: "What!" in shock.
"Oh come now. I'm not the only one who likes to sing around the house" Rarity stated and Sweetie blushes as she was remembers that she does that from time to time. "I honestly thought you have an amazing voice. I was looking forward to hear you sing today.
"But... Don't you want to..." Sweetie muttered as she was trying to build an argument.
"Why do I want my little sister to hide such a wonderful talent" Rarity interjected before Sweetie could finish. "I want you to be the best pony you can be."
"You mine it sis'"
"Of course I do!" Rarity reply before she pull her back in to give a more loving hug then she gave before.
Sapphire Shores, who was a bystander to this, couldn't no longer protect herself from this tear jerking scene. "Oh! So beautiful!" she said before she rip away her tears before anybody could see them. And at that moment, she suddenly have an idea that she want them to do.
"Ooh! Brain Storm Time!" Sapphire Shores yelled that gotten Rarity's and Sweetie Belle's attentions. "Why not... you two sing as a duet!?!" she asked and was given the typical reply of "What!"
She explains: "Yeah Why Not!? You two think that the other is an awesome singer, so you should know that you would sound better as a duet"
It took several moment and several glances of Sweetie Belle and Rarity looking at each other before they came up with a response. Rarity said to her sister: "I'm willingly to give it a try if you would". Sweetie Belle was a first nerves of this option. However, she decided to feel optimistic and replied: "Ok, Sure!" Rarity was just happy for her little sister regardless but Sapphire was a bit too happy of Sweetie accepting.
Rarity and Sweetie Belle stood centre of the room while Sapphire Shores was waiting intensely on the side. When Rarity look at her to see if she's ready, Sweetie Belle began messaging and clearing her throat, almost as if she was turning her good voice on. Once she was sure that she was ready, Sweetie gave her sister a nod to show that she was.
Rarity was the first to sing and she began singing "Find The Music Within You". Not because she was being ironic, but because I want it to be ironic. But in due credit, the lyrics was different that it was not just to "find the music within you", but also other stuff like courage and determination to match to what is coming next. When it was time for Sweetie Belle to start singing, she started of softly as she was still hesitant. But she was singing good. And as Rarity and Sapphire was trying to give off the impression that she was good, Sweetie Belle grew to be more confident. Eventually, Sweetie and Rarity was singing strongly together. Singing the lyric proudly and even shaking their heads uncontrollably.
It was at this moment that at a shining light was coming of Sweetie Belle's flank. Sapphire was the first to notice and was jaw dropped surprised as she couldn't believe her eyes. It took a bit to notice for Rarity, but when she did, she was so surprised that she stopped singing. While Sweetie Belle, who had her eyes closed, kept on singing as laud and proud as she can without realizing what was happening.
~~~
Back up to Cloudsdale (and Sweetie was continue singing in the background), Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash was looking down the slope that they were about to travel down. The ponies down below could finally see them and began cheering. Iron Wings, who just arrived at the crowd, also notice then and could only give a worried and surprised expression. Scootaloo grew second thought and letting her fears getting the best of her. But it only took one look at her idol: Rainbow Dash to throw away her fears enough to go down.
She and Rainbow Dash started off slow, letting the wind to push her off and letting Scootaloo to go first. But when she was finally of the edge, she was picking up speed like she was going into the future. Rainbow Dash, who followed after her, was surprised that she was having a bit of trouble catching up to her. As Scootaloo was going faster then she had gone before, the fear of loosing control slipped passed into her mind. However, once Rainbow Dash finally catches up to her, she got ride of the fear and began flapping her tiny wings to go even faster.
Scootaloo jumped off of the ramp at the end and she and Rainbow Dash was gliding in the air. Even the pegasi who was on the main part of Cloudsdale could see them as tiny dots as they were flying in front of the sun. Scootaloo was amazed at what she was doing, but notices that she let go of her scooter and was falling down towards the earth. Rainbow Dash, in a split second decision making, decided to save the scooter. She regretted it and now Scootaloo was flying on her own. Scootaloo was too confused to even be scared. However, once she sees the cloud that she was supposed to land on, every part of her brain told her to: "Land On That Island!" Gritting her teeth and giving it everything she got, enacting that "fly or die" saying, Scootaloo flapped her wings harder that she have ever done before.
As she was getting close to the island, a shining light was glowing on Scootaloo flank now. And added to the setting sunlight made it even more blinding. Rainbow Dash, who is the closest and arguably the only one who could see it, was amazed and thought how awesome the scene she was seeing. This scene ends when Scootaloo actually appearing over the cloud and looking like she was about to land on it (she did).
~~~
Apple Bloom and Applejack grabbed their lunches and was sitting on a slop facing the rusted up Old Bessie. Taking Applejacks words to heart, Apple Bloom stair intensely at the tractor and was thinking up the way to fix her. The problem that she could think of is that all of her parts was too rusty, but they don't have any replacement (unless she replace the whole tractor), material to make the replacements and there is nothing that can cures rust. As she was still trying to think of a solution, she took a bite out of her apple before she was hit by inspiration.
Apple Bloom looked at her bitten apple and saw the juicy apple juices dropping from it. As it drop onto the ground and disappears into the soil, she finally came up with the perfect solution. She rushes over to her saddlebags she brought with her which startled Applejack. Once AJ caught up to her, Apple Bloom was taking out beakers and potions that she apparently brought along. When she didn't think she got everything she needs, she spotted and nicked a flower that was one a buffalo's headdress. She mixed that and a crushed apple into her potions and start doing some alchemy. Once she got the potion that she wanted, Apple Bloom rushes back to Old Bessie. She poured a bit of it into the tractor's exhaust pipe and began scrubbing the potion into every nook-an-cranny that she can. Eventually, clouds of green smoke began exploding across the tractor. Applejack tried to pull her sister, but the exploding gasses was pushing her away. However, Apple Bloom wasn't even fazed at this as she continues rubbing the potion in.
All of the ponies who's staying up and some of the buffalo was hanging out in one of the cantina. Braeburn was discussing a few matters with Uncle Apple Seed and then Little Strongheart came and sat next to Braeburn. However, all discussions was stopped as they were hearing sounds of a perfectly working tractor outside and everyone rushes out to see. When they got outside, ponies was shocked and prides was ruined as they see and stainless Old Bessie ridding down the town with Applejack and Apple Bloom. As the Apple sisters were happily ridding on the newly restored tractor, Apple Bloom's flank began to glow but this scene ends before it was shown.
~~~
Several days passed and now we finally return to Ponyvile. Everybody was still getting ready for summer vacation to start and Twilight's castle, yet again, was still an eyesore. Around the time for the last day of school was starting, the train that came from Appaloosa has finally arrived at the train station. As ponies was leaving the train carts, Apple Bloom and Applejack rushed and closely missing any pony they were running pass. They jump out of the train station and running down the streets towards the school house.
"Hurry Up Apple Bloom! Or Else Ya Miss Yer Last Day Of School!" yelled Applejack to Apple Bloom who was closely behind her. "Braeburn was right! We should have taken the earlier train!"
"I Know Applejack I don't want to miss it too!" Apple Bloom yelled back.
"I don't know why ya wore your crusader's cape and your..." AJ asked but couldn't finish as she need to take another breath.
"I want Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo to be the first ones to see my CUTIE MARK! " Apple Bloom replied who jumped when she said cutie mark.
"Well we'd better hurry" Applejack interjected before they both rush off to school.
Once the Apple sisters finally arrived at the school house, they regain their breaths and Applejack signalled Apple Bloom to go in as it wasn't her class. Once she regain her breath, Apple Bloom took her nervous first steps into the classroom.
Once she was inside, what Apple Bloom saw took her breath away after she's just regained it. Cheerilee stood behind her desk and was quick to notice Apple Bloom. All of the other students were there and were at their seats, and she could see Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon who wasn't looking happy. And then there was Sweetie Belle... who was singing in front of the class and was showing of her cutie mark.
Sweetie Belle was singing just "La La La"'s, but she sang them so lovely and so angelic, that birds actually appeared on the windows and was singing along. Sweetie's cutie mark was a bell with music notes. Once she was finished, the class (except for TD and Silver Spoon) gave a round of applause and Sweetie Belle finally notices Apple Bloom.
"Apple Bloom, I'm glad that you can see..." Cheerilee said before the two reunited friends shouted: "Oh My Gosh" three times at each other.
"Sweetie Belle!... You!... You Sa...! You Got Yer CUTIE MARK!"
"Yeah I Know! Right!" replied Sweetie Belle who did a twirl to show of her cutie mark. "I got it once I sang with my sister after Sapphire Shores helped me". And once she said Sapphire Shore's name, the room became roaring with discussions and Diamond Tiara became even more frustrated.
"What about you?" Sweetie Belle asked. "what did you get?"
"Well..." As Apple Bloom was about to take off her crusader's cape, a familiar voice and pony came through the door.
"Sorry! Sorry Everyone! Sorry For Being Late!" apologized out Sir Fine Marks, the Cutie Mark Councillor. He rushed through the door, not noticing Applejack who was still outside, and he brought a brief case with some leaking documents. Once he got his stuff on Cheerilee's desk, Cheerilee and Apple Bloom spotted pink ribbons and confetti on Sir Mark's back. Once Sir Mark spotted them, he began to violently shake them off his back. He explained: "On my way here, I was attacked by a pink pony who want me to come to her party. I didn't want to go to such a childish event, but she wouldn't let me go."
Then Sir Marks noticed Apple Bloom and Sweetie and spotted Sweetie Belle's cutie mark.
"Girls! It's great to see you. And Sweetie... You got your Cutie Mark!" he said loudly, almost giving the impression that he was the one who got them that.
"Yeah. And it was all thanks to you" replied Sweetie Belle, which gave Sir Marks attention from the class.
"And Apple Bloom!..." Sir Marks said as he moved his attention towards her. "Did you get your cutie mark?"
"Yeah, I was just..." she replied as she tried to remove her cape again, but another voice from outside stopped her again but this time it yelled: "IN COMMING!"
Then, Scootaloo came flying in with her scooter and frightening everyone inside. After the initial shock, everyone was amazed as Scootaloo began riding the walls horizontally. However, once she slow down and stopped, she accidently knocked Apple Bloom up and over Cheerilee's desk.
"Scootaloo!... THAT WAS AMAZING!" screamed Sweetie Belle as she complimented her friend.
"I Know! But Look!" replied Scootaloo as she turn and revealed that she got her cutie mark. Her cutie mark was her scooter making a lighting trial pattern. As the students was saying "wow", Scootaloo explained: "I became a daredevil pony"
As everyone was wondering what a daredevil pony is, Scootaloo reiterate: "A daredevil pony is a pony who does life daring stunts while one bikes, skateboards and even scooters. As she started posing and doing tricks in front of the class, the all cheered and applaud her. While Diamond Tiara was having the worst day in her life. This certified that she had lost the bet.
As everyone was being amazed, Cheerilee noticed and fallen over Apple Bloom behind her desk. "Are you alright Apple Bloom!?!" she asked that got everyone's attention.
Apple Bloom picked herself up while holding her head and replied dizzily: "yeah... I'm ok." Once Cheerilee helped her around, her friends rushed to her aid.
"I'm so sorry Apple Bloom. I didn't see ya back there. If I had... If I had just notice you, I would have..." apologized Scootaloo, who was feeling regretful for her actions. However...
"No, it's ok Scootaloo. I'm ok" replied Apple Bloom who still show signs of soreness.
"So Apple Bloom..." cried Sir Marks who got everyone's attention. "...did you get your cutie mark"
Everyone was waiting for her response. Cheerilee and Sir Marks who was waiting patiently. Scootaloo and Sweetie, who was too eager and was giving off creepy smiles. The other students was waiting on the edge of their seats, except for Diamond Tiara who was upset as ever. She even notices Applejack who was peaking out of the door. However Apple Bloom was hesitant and should be noticeably frightened.
"I..." Apple Bloom as everyone was leaning forward and was eager for the answer. "I..." Then, Apple Bloom blurs out the answer:
"I DIDN'T GOT MY CUTIE MARK!"
Everyone was shocked by this. Even Diamond's mood changed as she heard this supposed revelation. Applejack was the one who was most upset by this, and more so Apple Bloom continued to talk.
"I'm sorry... I just failed to get my cutie mark. It just that... when I arrived, I couldn't 'nothing as we were just short on supplies." said Apple Bloom as she notice that she was about to cry. "I... I need to get out of here!"
Apple Bloom rushed out of the classroom, trying to hide her tears and something. Applejack chased after her and calling out to her to no avail. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked out from the doorway, confused, surprised and upset for her friend.
