My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic (Alternate Season Six)

by FlareGun45

Rating: everyone
Tags: Alternate Universe, Main 6, Drama, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Spike, Comedy, Cutie Mark Crusaders, Other, Starlight Glimmer, Adventure
Length: 121183

A fake MLP: Season Six attempt keep the fandom at ease throughout the hiatus. This isn't the real season six, nor do I know what's happening in season six for sure. There are no sources in this story that are relevant to season six.

Are you feeling that MLP: Season Six is taking forever to come? Well you may not have to worry! I have made a little something that MIGHT help stall the stress of the hiatus. Most of these episode names came from the fake 4chan list before it was taken down, so I decided to take advantage over it. This isn't much. I'm not trying to become famous over this story. I want to help out the fandom by giving them a fanmade season six to help them get through the hiatus - or it's a little something to do if you're bored.

For those of you that read my other stories, let me let you know that this story is beyond anything I've ever written. I don't put any of the humor or ANY content from my other stories in here. I want to keep this story as realistic to MLP as possible. Some events might cause characters to be OOC by accident, but that's not my intention. I'm really trying to entertain you with my theories of season six. I don't expect much to come outta this. Just your entertainment.

So mainly this story is about where we left off in season five where Starlight Glimmer becomes Twilight's new student. If you like Starlight, she'll be appearing alot in here! And alot of your favorite characters are in here! All of the main characters will have at least two episodes starring them, Starswirl the Bearded will be playing a major role in this story, new characters, a ton of returning fan-favorites, and my personal favorite: alot of character development for my little buddy Spike! Probably a little too much character development for him.

So please, enjoy the story! Also, I did not take any content from Hasbro or DHX that's relevant to the new season! So if there's a slight possibility of the events of the story appearing in season six, it would just be a coincidence. If teasers or sneak peeks get released while this story is being made, they will not be in here, because this is my season 6 with content I made, not content the writers made for the new season. So that's pretty much it! Just enjoy it, and if you have any questions whatsoever, feel free to PM me! Brohoof! /)

A new chapter will be released every Saturday, just like the show! That way if you so happened to enjoy this, you can enjoy it slowly and surely! ^_^ Story will be on hiatus after chapter 13, the halfway point, because I'm still making the chapters, but alot of chapters were already made ahead of time.

Published 2016-01-17 15:00:02 UTC
Last updated 2016-03-25 21:27:43 UTC

The Cutie Castle - Part 1

(Image by PowerPuncher, oh and PowerPuncher, you forgot Cadance's wings.)

We start off the episode at Carousel Boutique where Starlight Glimmer assists Rarity in making another dress for Sapphire Shores.

“Ooooo!” Rarity says cheerfully. “This dress is coming along very nicely! Thank you so much for helping me make it, Starlight Glimmer!”

“It’s no trouble, Rarity!” Starlight said. “I’m just happy to help in any way I can.”

“Your friendship is definitely improving fast!” Rarity said. “I am impressed!”

“I’m just doing what you and the others taught me.” Starlight said. “So who’s this dress for?”

As Starlight levitates a sleeping Opalescence and uses her magic to take the silk that Opal was sleeping on and then gently sets her back down on the counter without waking her up as Rarity says, “It’s for the fabulous pop-star in Equestria, Sapphire Shores!”

“Sapphire Shores?” Starlight asked.

“Surprised?” Rarity asked as she takes the silk and starts to cut it. “I am her favorite costume designer, and for now, her only one!”

“Really?” Starlight asked.

“Oh yes! I find it so uncanny myself! But… it happened, and I am quite pleased to be in her service!” Rarity said.

“Are you sure about that, Rarity?” Starlight asked.

“What do you mean?” Rarity asked.

“I mean, Sapphire Shores isn’t that cool of a pony let-alone a celebrity.” Starlight said as Rarity gasps. “Plus, her music isn’t that creative. It’s just different beats and the lyrics all mean the same thing.”

“How dare you?!” Rarity shouted. “Sapphire Shores is like… the queen of pop!”

“And that’s the thing. Pop music just isn’t my thing.” Starlight said. “It’s just my opinion. Princess Twilight taught me all about them last week.”

Rarity starts to chuckle and says, “Oh, Starlight, Starlight, Starlight. Even though you’re improving. You still have much to learn about friendship.” Starlight rolls her and shakes her head.

Afterwards, Starlight starts to hear a strange noise coming from Rarity’s side, and Rarity feels a funny vibrating sound. “Uh, what’s going on?” Starlight asked.

“It’s my cutie mark!” Rarity said. “The map is calling me.”

“Why?” Starlight asked.

“Well… sometimes the map at Twilight’s castle summons us if there’s a friendship problem at stake somewhere in Equestria, and it’s our duty as the guardians of friendship to hear any distress and come to the rescue.” Rarity said.

“Huh?” Starlight asked.

“No time! I’ll explain later!” Rarity said as she runs off. Starlight follows her out. Once they both leave Opal awakens from her slumber finding out that her soft silk sheets were gone. She then gets fussy for her bed back so she jumps onto the pony manikin, rips off the dress from it which causes it to fall on the floor, and she jumps on it and falls back asleep.

Over at Fluttershy’s cottage, she attempts to put Angel in a bucket for a bath, but he keeps hesitating to go in there. “Come… on… Angel! You have to… take a bath!” Fluttershy said as she struggled to put Angel in the bucket. “Please, Angel? You need to get clean! You’ll get infections if you don’t take a bath! Pleeeease?” As Fluttershy tries her hardest to angrily ask him nicely to go in, Angel is just too strong. “Ok, Angel. I didn’t want to do this, but you leave me no other option. Time to bring out the big guns!” Fluttershy said, and just then, she began to tickle him. Angel starts to laugh but still hesitates to get into the tub. Just then, Angel tricks Fluttershy which leads her to fall into the tub instead of Angel. As Angel laughs at her, Fluttershy’s cutie mark starts to vibrate. “Oh… my. I’m sorry, Angel, but we’ll have to reschedule the bath for later.” So she hops out of the tub, and she rushes to the castle. Angel mischievously starts walking away from the tub, but not until Hairy the Bear pops up and roars which scares Angel and he falls into the tub, and then Hairy starts to laugh at him.

Over at Sugarcube Corner, Pinkie Pie takes out an oven mit, opens the oven, and takes out a tray of brownies. She takes a sniff and says, “Mmm mmm! Delicious! It’s the scent of chocolately brownie goodness! You take a sniff, Gummy! Tell me what you think!” But he just stands there with the mixer and bowl and covered in dough. “You’re right, Gummy! It does need more paprika!” Then suddenly, Pinkie’s cutie mark starts vibrating. “Aw shucks, looks like you’re going to have to hold the fort, Gummy. I’ll be back as soon as possible! Chow!”

Pinkie starts to run off, but before she could, Pinkie’s customer, Merry May, starts complaining, “Um, excuse me? Any idea where my brownies are?”

“Sorry, Merry May, but… duty calls!” Pinkie said as she points to her flank, and then storms off.

Merry then says in a disgusted tone, “Ugh! Didn’t need to know that information!”

At Sweet Apple Acres, AppleJack plays fetch with a Frisbee with Winona. She tosses it across the field, and Winona brings it back. She pats Winona on the head and calls her a good girl. AppleJack was just about to toss it again when her cutie mark vibrates, which causes her to lose her concentration when she throws it, and the Frisbee ends up knocking Big Mac on the head. “HEY!” Big Mac yelled as he rubbed his head.

“Uh oh. Sorry, Big Mac!” AppleJack called out. Big Mac just sighs and rolls his eyes.

Up in the skies- no wait… down on the ground, Rainbow Dash was playing a game of chess with Tank. She makes her move and then chuckles mischievously at him, and says, “Beat that!” That was when her cutie mark vibrated. She started to complain, “Oh you have to got to be kidding me! Now? Out of all times? No, you’re going to have to wait. I’m playing a game with Tank, and if I leave, I’d have to forfeit, and Rainbow Dash never forfits, because Rainbow Dash never los-“ But as Rainbow turns back to the board and saw Tank already made his move and Tank won a checkmate. Rainbow stuttered surprisingly, “But… I… uhh… wha… I….” And then she tosses the board aside angrily. She then says to Tank, “Next time, I’m picking the activity!”

Over at the castle, Twilight was in her library, reading like she always does. That was when Owlowisious flew inside the castle carrying a letter. He hoots to get her attention and drops the letter down to her. “Oh! Thank you, Owlowisious! I wonder who it’s from?” she asks as she opens it.

“Whatcha got there, Twilight?” Spike asked.

“It’s a letter from Shining Armor and Princess Cadance!” Twilight said.

“Cool!” Spike said. “Does say anything about their baby coming soon?”

“I don’t know. I haven’t read it yet.” Twilight informed him.

“Oh.” Spike said as he chuckles.

Twilight opens the letter and reads it, “Dear Twilie, I can already see who wrote this! Cadance and I have wonderful news about the new baby.”

“Called it!” Spike said.

“It is a beautiful little girl that we really want you to meet.” Twilight continued the letter. “Her name is Skyla and she really wants to meet her aunt. Please come when you have time. We both miss you. Love, Shining Armor. Oh, and look! There’s also a photo of her in here!”

“Can I see?” Spike asked as he hops on Twilight’s seat to check out the photo. It was a picture of Shining and Cadance holding the new baby in their arms. She was a tiny bright pink alicorn with purple and blue curly hair. The rest of her body was covered in a blanket, and her eyes were closed. “Wow! She is so cute!”

“I know, Spike!” Twilight said with tears in her eyes. “Knowing that my own brother has started a family with Cadance, I… I…” Spike gives Twilight a box of tissues, and she takes one with her magic and blows her nose, and then she gives it back to him, giving Spike a disgusted look. “I just can hardly believe it! I have to get packed for the Crystal Empire right away!” Twilight runs off, dropping Spike off her in the process and the tissue lands on his face.

“AAH! I think some of it went in my mouth!” he cried.

As Twilight runs through the castle corridors, all excited that she gets to meet her new niece, that was when her cutie mark started vibrating. Twilight’s excitement then died down. “Oh, no, no, no!” Twilight cried. “Out of all the times you had to summon me, why today out of all other days?!”

A few minutes later, the Mane Five and Starlight Glimmer all met in the castle’s map room for the meeting. Everyone walks inside the room and starts walking (or in Rainbow’s case flying, or Pinkie’s case hoping) over to their thrones. “Woo we!” AppleJack cried out in excitement. “Ah wonder where the map called for us this time!”

“I hope we get to go on an epic adventure through the outskirts of Equestria solving the friendship problems of monstrous beasts!” Rainbow said excitedly.

“Oh, I hope we get to solve the friendship problems of some cute little kind creatures not too far away.” Fluttershy said.

“Yeah, I dunno how opposites attract so much, Fluttershy.” Rainbow said.

“Maybe we’re going to a super far away place beyond the universe and start solving the friendship problems of a vicious worm race and a giant rock monster race fighting for a batch of the love of little fairy creatures with magical dust that makes corn grow!” Pinkie assumed. Everypony just looked at Pinkie weirdly.

“To be honest, I couldn’t care less where we go or who we meet.” Rarity said as everyone except for Starlight takes a seat on their thrones. “As long as they don’t mess with my hair.”

“It’s too bad the map didn’t summon me though.” Starlight said upsettingly.

“Aw shucks, Starlight. You’ll have your chance.” AppleJack said. “We all do at some point.”

“Yeah, I suppose you’re right, AppleJack.” Starlight agreed.

Twilight and Spike eventually enter the map room and each took a seat on their thrones. Twilight had a sad look on her face. “Are you ok, Twilight?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yeah, this is certainly not how we expected you to look when the map summons us.” Rarity said.

“Maybe it’s opposite day.” Pinkie whispered.

“No, it’s fine.” Twilight said. “I’m glad the map has summoned us all again. Unfortunately, it could’ve come in a better time, because I just got a letter from Shining Armor and Cadance that their new baby was born recently. All of Twilight’s friends cheered in excitement.

“But… shouldn’t you be happy for them?” Fluttershy asked.

“Oh I am happy for them.” Twilight smiled. “I am so proud of them for finally starting a family. I’m just upset that the map had to summon us before we got the chance to meet Skyla.”

“Uhh, Skyla?” AppleJack asked.

“Yeah. That’s her name.” Twilight said. “We have a photo of her if you want to see.” Spike passes the photo down so everypony will get to see.

“Awww! She is so adorable!” Rarity said. “I just love that mane style of hers!” She then passes it down.

“Woo we! This the second best newborn photo ah’ve ever laid mah eyes on!” AppleJack said as she passes the photo down. “First bein’ Apple Bloom of course.”

“It’s too bad we’re not going to be able to meet her right away.” Twilight said sadly. “I just wish we could go to the Crystal Empire right now so we could meet her.

“Maybe you don’t have to wait.” Starlight pointed to where the Mane Six’s cutie marks were on the map, and they were spinning over the Crystal Empire. Everypony cheered.

“Wow! I guess we’re going to the Crystal Empire after all then, Twilight!” Rainbow said.

“WOO HOO!” Pinkie cried out in excitement. “I can’t wait to meet Skyla! I’m great with babies!”

“Wow… it can’t be a coincidence!” Twilight said happily. “Not only do we get to meet Skyla, but we can solve a friendship problem while we’re there too!” Everypony cheered again. All except Starlight.

“Yeah… well… you girls have fun then.” Starlight said sadly. “I hope Skyla is as cute in person as she is on the photo, if not more.”

“Who says you couldn’t go, Starlight?” Twilight asked.

“Well… the map didn’t summon me.” Starlight said. “And Rarity said the map only chooses who gets to go.”

“Well, the map only summons the ponies to help with a friendship problem, but you’re not going there to solve the friendship problem.” Twilight said.

“Yeah, the map can’t say who you can or cannot meet.” Rarity said.

“Exactly!” Twilight said. “You can still come, and maybe you might learn a thing or two in the process.”

“Really?” Starlight asked as she smiled.

“Starlight,” Twilight places her hoof on her shoulder, “you’re my student now, and I want you to learn everything you could about friendship. Watching us perform our friendship duties would help you reach that goal.”

“Well… I guess you’re right, Twilight.” Starlight said. “I do want to learn what I can so I can be the best I can be. And besides, it wouldn’t hurt meeting your brother and former foalsitter for the first time, and try to get on their good side.”

“That’s the spirit, Starlight!” AppleJack said.

“Well, if Starlight gets to go, can I go too then?” Spike asked. “I mean, the ponies in the Crystal Empire do admire me.”

“Of course, Spike!” Twilight said.

“Cool! I’ll bring my lucky pen if anypony asks for an autograph!” Spike said. Twilight rolls her eyes at his comment. So the eight of them all left the castle and boarded the Friendship Express to the Crystal Empire. Once the train reaches the Crystal Empire, the Mane Six, Spike, and Starlight all stepped out onto the station and began walking to the palace.

“Huh.” Twilight said. “That’s weird. Usually either Shining or Cadance, or both, wait for us at the station to welcome us.”

“Perhaps that might be a little too busy to.” Fluttershy assumed.

“Yeah, the two of them do run an entire empire by themselves.” Rarity said. “I’d admit, I’d have a problem running an empire too if I ran it by myself.”

“Ha! I’d never run an empire! I’m too awesome to run an empire!” Rainbow said.

“Oh? And why is that?” Rarity asked.

“Because waaaaaay too much paperwork!” Rainbow said. “No, I’d rather be a general of the guard. That’s where the action is!”

“So I wonder what kind of friendship problem you guys are going to be doing?” Starlight asked.

“Probably a giant worm from outer space and a giant rock monster-“ Pinkie started, but she gets interrupted by AppleJack.

“Pinkie, ah would strongly assume that giant creatures from outer space wouldn’t be much of a friendship problem – more of a crisis.” She said.

Pinkie sighs and then says, “You’re such a square, AppleJack!”

“Just tryin’ to keep our heads in a place ah’d like to call: real life.” AppleJack informed her.

Just then, musical instruments started playing in the distance. A marching band of some sort started walking through the streets of the Crystal Empire along with floats dedicated to Princess Skyla. “Oooo! A parade!” Pinkie said excitedly.

“And so, the Crystal Empire starts a new age, as a new decedent to the throne has finally been born!” an announcer said. “Princess Skyla is said to bring peace and happiness to the Crystal Empire when her times comes to take the throne! We await that day as we celebrate next week’s Crystal Faire to honor Princess Skyla!”

“At least the crystal ponies are excited for the new baby.” Starlight said.

“Yeah, but it’s weird.” Twilight said. “Where’s the friendship problems? Everything seems to be… normal.”

“A little too normal.” Pinkie said. “I don’t like it.”

“Well, perhaps its best we go meet with Shinin’ Armor and Cadance first.” AppleJack suggested. “Maybe they’ll know what’s up.”

“Good idea, AppleJack.” Twilight said. So ponies all head up to the crystal palace to meet with the royal couple. When they got close to the throne room, Shining Armor was pacing back in forth right outside it, along with two guards guarding the door to the throne room; one bring a crystal guard, and one being a particular orange pegasus guard. “Shining Armor?” Twilight called out.

“Twilie?” Shining asked. “What are you doing here?”

“You called for us.” Twilight reminded him. “I just got your letter saying that Skyla was born.”

“Yeah, but… that was three weeks ago.” Shining said.

“Really?” Twilight asked, and then she mumbles, “I guess that’s the last time I use Owlowisious as my source of communication.”

“It’s best to stick to the best.” Spike teased.

“Well, regardless, I am glad you all are here.” Shining said. “But wait… who’s that?” He points to Starlight Glimmer.

“Oh that’s Starlight Glimmer, the one I’ve been writing to you about.” Twilight said.

“Ah, so you’re Twilight’s new student! Please to meet you!” Shining shakes her hoof.

“Likewise!” Starlight said. “Twilight is lucky to have a brother like you!”

“Thanks!” Shining said.

“I wouldn’t get your hopes up. He’s married.” Pinkie whispered to her.

Each of them all walk into the throne room as Shining explains the situation, “I’m glad you’re here, Twilie.”

“As am I!” Twilight said. “I would love to meet my niece for the first time!”

“Umm… yeah, about that.” Shining started.

“Oh no! Something’s wrong!” Rarity panicked. “Please, don’t tell me something is wrong with your baby!”

“Well, I wouldn’t say there’s anything… wrong with her. What she’s going through is completely normal… or, so I heard.” Shining said.

“What’s wrong with her, Shining?” Twilight asked nervously. “I hope nothing’s wrong with her! I don’t want anything bad to happen to my niece!”

“Sheesh! And I thought I was the drama queen!” Rarity said.

“She’s fine, Twilie.” Shining said. “Cadance is watching over her right now.”

“May we please see her, Shining?” Twilight asked.

“Umm…” Shining thought, “perhaps, I should explain-“

“I don’t want to wait! I want to see her… now!” Twilight demanded.

“Ok, ok!” Shining calmed her down. “But please don’t freak out once you see this.”

“See what?” Twilight asked.

“Follow me.” Shining instructed her. Everypony followed Shining down the palace corridors until they reached some double doors leading to another room. He was about to open them, but he hesitated. “Are you sure you want to see her now?”

“Just do it.” Twilight ordered him. Shining takes a deep breath and slowly opens the double doors and everypony walks inside. Everypony takes a look around the room, and there was Cadance on the other side of the room with her back towards Twilight and the others. “Cadance!”

“Twilight!” Cadance said as she hesitated to smile. “I didn’t know you were coming!”

“Cadance… what’s wrong with Skyla?” Twilight asked.

“Oh, Twilight…” Cadance said upsettingly as she moves over and sees Skyla sleeping in a crib inside a big glass box. Everypony gasped after they saw Skyla in there.

Twilight ran up to the glass with her nose and hooves against it. “Skyla! My niece! What’s going on?!”

“Twilie…” Shining attempted to calm her down.

“What’s going on?!” Twilight yelled. “Why is she in a box?!”

“Twilight, if you just let me explain, I promise you’ll understand why she’s in there.” Cadance informed her. Twilight was feeling really nervous, and then Cadance reminded her, “Remember what I taught you.” Twilight takes a deep breath and exhales calmly.

“Ok… ok… I’m calm.” Twilight said.

“Ok, I’m no expert on babies, but I don’t think this is the way to take care of one.” Rainbow said.

“I know, but I only put her in there for her own safety.” Cadance said as she presses her hoof against the glass.

“What’s wrong? Are you bein’ over protective around her?” AppleJack asked. “Because ah’ve been where you are.”

“No, it’s not that.” Cadance said as she sighs. “As you can see, Skyla was born as an alicorn, and alicorns are very powerful. When Skyla was born, she was the greatest thing… I’ve ever seen in my entire life. I never wanted to let go of her. I said to her ‘Skyla, I promise, I will always love you till the end of time. You will bring peace and happiness across the Crystal Empire.’ She giggled. It was the cutest smile I’ve seen… it… brought tears to my eyes.” She started tearing up. Shining offers her a tissue and she blows her nose on it, and then she gives it back to him, and Shining then had a disgusted look.

“But then later that day… she started crying.” Cadance said. “I wanted to help her feel better, but I thought it was nothing. Just a diaper change, or she was hungry, but when she cried, she started having a magical surge. Her magic completely destroyed the dining hall of the palace. That’s when I knew her magic was unstable. I didn’t know what to do, so Celestia gave me this anti-magic box to keep her in.”

“Celestia actually did that?” Twilight asked. “But… this isn’t a way to take care of a baby! A baby needs love. A baby needs her mother and her father. She doesn’t want to be left in a glass box in solitude!”

“I know, and it hurts me so to keep her in here!” Cadance said. “But I have no choice. If by any chance she cries, she may not just harm herself, but others around her. I care about Skyla more than anything, but I also care about the safety of my subjects, and I can’t just risk it.”

“But…” Twilight stuttered.

“It’s the only way, Twilie.” Shining said. “We try to go in there and play with her and take care of her any way we can. We let nopony else in this room. You eight are the first guests to ever enter this room with Skyla in here.”

“But there has to be something else we could do!” Rainbow said.

“If an alicorn was born an alicorn and started having magical surges, how did they learn to control them?” Rarity asked.

“Well… I wouldn’t know for sure since I wasn’t born an alicorn.” Cadance said. “But Princesses Celestia and Luna were. When I was young, Celestia told me stories about her and Luna’s childhood. When they were born, they also had magical surges that they didn’t know how to control. That was when Starswirl the Bearded had to take action. He brought young Celestia and Luna to his castle on the mountains not too far from here where he trained them the alicorn arts, and even though he himself was not an alicorn, he was familiar with the magic, and in their young lives, they learned how to control their magic.”

“So… what you’re saying is… we have to go up to Starswirl the Bearded’s castle and find out how we can control Skyla’s magic?” Twilight asked.

“It’s probably the only way.” Cadance said.

“I didn’t know Starswirl had a castle near here.” Starlight said.

“Me neither. Out of all the time I researched him, I’ve always thought he lived in Canterlot all his life, but having his own solitary castle out here in the arctic, I guess it makes sense that he would need the privacy to invent all the magic spells he made.” Twilight said.

“Which is probably why the map summoned us here.” AppleJack said. “We should go look for whatever he used to train the princesses, and be able to solve the relationship issue between parents and child.”

“Because there’s no greater friendship than family!” Pinkie said. “Well, except relationship with cake. Nothing can top that!”

“So it’s settled. Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, AppleJack, Rarity, let’s all head to Starswirl the Bearded’s castle and find a book or something that might help Shining and Cadance train Skyla to control her magic.” Twilight said. The Mane Five agreed. “Starlight, Spike, I want you two to stay here and help Shining and Cadance with Skyla in case they need it.”

“Will do!” Spike saluted.

“Wait, are you sure it’s a good idea to leave me here, Twilight?” Starlight asked. “I mean, how am I supposed to learn about the friendship issues on this mission if I’m not here to watch?”

“Starlight, all we’re doing is looking for a book, or a scroll, or something.” Twilight said. “All the friendship problems are right here, and you know what they are. We’re going to fix the relationship between parents and child by assisting them in controlling Skyla.”

“Oh.” Starlight said upsettingly.

“Don’t worry, Starlight. We’ll be back before you know it, and you’ll know exactly how we do to solve a friendship problem!” Twilight said.

“Oh… ok.” Starlight said upsettingly.

“Good luck, all of you.” Cadance said. “Please hurry back. I don’t want to leave me my daughter in there for too long.”

“We’ll be back before you know it!” Twilight promised. “Let’s go girls!” Then the Mane Six all ran off. Starlight sadly looked down, but Spike tries to comfort her.

“Don’t be upset, Starlight. I understand how it feels to be left out.” Spike comforted her.

“But… how am I supposed to learn being trapped here?” Starlight asked.

“Well… you can try napping.” Spike suggested.

“Yeah… I’m not much of a napper like you, Spike.” Starlight said.

“Well… maybe Shining Armor and Cadance would need some help with something.” Spike suggested. “Twilight did say they might want some help with Skyla. Maybe with our help, we can try to woo her from out here.”

“Well… I suppose we can try.” Starlight said. “I just hope we’re not missing out too much on their epic adventure.”

On the way to Starswirl’s castle, Twilight and her friends get stuck in an arctic blizzard outside the Crystal Empire. “Ahh! I should’ve brought my scarves!” Rarity called out.

“Chilly?” AppleJack asked.

“No, I just want to look fabulous in case I freeze to death.” Rarity said.

“I have no clue if that’s sarcasm or sincere.” Rainbow said.

“In Rarity’s case, I’m not sure either.” AppleJack said.

“Oh real mature, AppleJack.” Rarity said sarcastically. “And that one was sarcasm.”

“Ya think?” AppleJack asked sarcastically.

“I see something in the distance.” Rainbow pointed out.

Twilight looked over and saw a shadow of a castle of some sort straight ahead. “I think that might be the castle.”

“I think it might be a mirage. I’m not falling for it.” Pinkie said.

“A mirage only happens when it’s hot, Pinkie. Not cold.” Twilight informed me.

“Or the coldness is making hallucinate. Making us see ghosts that give us messages to go to swamps or something.” Pinkie said.

“Hallucination or not, we should check it out.” Rainbow suggested. The Mane Six walk over to the shadowy figure, and up a hill was indeed the castle. They open the doors and walk inside, and close the door behind them to leave the blizzardy snow out.

They take a look around the abandoned castle and Rarity comments, “I’m sorry, are we at Starswirl’s castle, or are we at the Castle of the Two Sisters again?”

“The two of them do look similar.” Fluttershy said. “Dark… spooky…” A pebble falls on her head. “…falling apart.”

“They must twins or something!” Pinkie said.

“C’mon, girls. We could admire the scenery later.” Twilight said. “We need to find something relevant that relates on how Starswirl the Bearded trained Celestia and Luna to control their magic.”

“This place is huge though. Where do we start?” Rainbow asked.

“I think the best strategy is to split up.” Twilight suggested.

“Isn’t splitting up, like… the worst thing to do in a strange place?” Rainbow asked.

“Good point.” AppleJack agreed. “We should split up in twos just to be sa-“ Before AppleJack could finish that sentence, Fluttershy grabs on to her legs. “Ah guess Fluttershy’s with me then.”

“I’ll go with Rainbow.” Rarity said. “Just in case anything falls is about to fall on my hair, she’ll be the first to know and warn me ahead of time.”

“Whateves, as long as you do the reading.” Rainbow shrugged.

“I guess that leaves us, Twilight!” Pinkie said.

“I guess so.” Twilight said. “Pinkie and I will search the basement, Rarity and Rainbow can check the downstairs, and Fluttershy and AppleJack can check the upstairs.”

“Oh good.” Fluttershy said in relief. “Thank you so much Twilight for not having me go down to the basement.”

“I’m always there for you, Fluttershy!” Twilight said.

“Yeah, all you’ll have to worry about is the spooky attic!” Pinkie informed her.

“The a-a-a-a-a-a-a-attic?!” Fluttershy stuttered and started shaking nervously.

AppleJack rolled her eyes and said, “Relax, there are no attics in castles. There can’t be an attic unless there’s a roof, right?”

“I… guess not.” Fluttershy said.

“Exactly, and there’s no roof. Just a flat concrete ceiling.” AppleJack said.

“Well if we’re all done hanging around. Let’s go find that guide so we can all go back to the palace and have some hot cocoa, ok?” Rainbow suggested.

So they all split up around the castle to find the hidden guide. Twilight and Pinkie start off at some sort of lounge area with sheets covering the furniture. Twilight walks over to a book shelf and uncovers the sheet covering it. She uses her magic to quickly study all the books, but as she was studying the books, a dark shadow blocks her light from behind her. She then looks behind her and sees a ghost. “Wooooo!” the ghost moans.

“Pinkie, quit it.” Twilight instructed her.

“Whoooooo’s this Pinkie Pie you speak ooooooof?” the ghost asked.

“I didn’t say ‘Pinkie Pie’, I said ‘Pinkie’.” Twilight corrected her.

“Awww! How did you know it was me?” Pinkie whined as she uncovers herself with the sheet.

“Because that’s the oldest Nightmare Night trick in the book.” Twilight informs her.

“Oh you and your books, Twilight!” Pinkie complained as she unwrapped herself. Twilight glares at her. “Yeah, maybe you’re right. There is no ghost here. Orrrrr… IS THERE?!” Just then a tiny ghost pops out, and it doesn’t startle Twilight one bit. She just glares at her some more. That mini ghost turns out to be another little sheet on her tail. “You used to be so easy to prank.”

“I’m not in the pranking mood right now, Pinkie! We have to find clues on how Starswirl the Bearded taught Celestia and Luna how to use their magic!” Twilight informed her. So Pinkie heads off to continue looking for the clue, and so does Twilight. She checks one of the books and sees there was a book marker in it. She opens the book and checks out the page it’s marked. “Hmm…” she thought. “I think I found something.”

“We find new things every day.” Pinkie said as she keeps pressing random keys on the piano with her hoof.

“No really, I mean, this here is a book containing Starswirl the Bearded’s deep research into magic.” Twilight said. “There are discoveries in here that I never even seen in the Canterlot Archives. There’s content that Starswirl has never released onto the public.”

“Cool!” Pinkie said. “Is there a magic spell that can make an infinite amount of cupcakes?”

“Maybe, but that’s not what I found in here.” Twilight said. “Look at this.” She shows her. “It’s a spell on how to clone yourself temporarily. Make doubles of yourself.”

“You mean like a changeling, or something out of the mirror pond?” Pinkie asked.

“Not quite.” Twilight said. “It’s more like a decoy that copies the last movement you’ve done before the spell was made, and it keeps doing that same move until the spell wears off.”

“Cool!” Pinkie said. “Perhaps that spell might be useful to cover the front of Sugarcube Corner while I go into the kitchen and sneak into the cookie jar even though I’m not allowed to.”

“I wouldn’t use the spell like that. I mean, these spells in this book are pretty advanced.” Twilight said. “I’m not sure if even Celestia has ever performed these spells before.”

“But Celestia has performed every spell ever!” Pinkie said as she flops on her back.

“Maybe, but… I dunno.” Twilight said. “It’s pretty advanced magic.”

“But some of it could come in handy.” Pinkie said. “You use magic for a useful purpose very often. What if a big worm or rock monster attacks Equestria and you’d need to make a Twilight, Jr.?”

“Come to think of it, maybe.” Twilight thought.

“Oooo nice book marker though!” Pinkie commented as she grabs it. “It matches the one on the piano book!” She shows Twilight both of the markers.

“Hmm… I didn’t even know Starswirl played piano.” Twilight said.

Meanwhile with Rarity and Rainbow Dash, they were searching the basement corridors for anything they could use. “Oooh!” Rarity said as she opens one of the doors and searches the room.

“What did you find a library?” Rainbow asked.

“Nope, not what I expected.” Rarity said. So they went through the corridors some more and searched room to room for anything useful. Rarity searches another room and her eyes light up. “URIEKA!” Rarity cried

“Whoa, that’s a new word!” Rainbow said. “Find the library?”

“Even better!” Rarity said as Rainbow flew inside. Rainbow’s smile quickly turned into an annoyed look.

“The dressing room, of course.” Rainbow complained.

“Eeee! These old ancient robes!” Rarity observed Starswirl’s old robes. “Ancients are totally trend this season! If I could take these back to the boutique, maybe I could clean them a bit, add a little bit of sapphire, maybe re-dye the color to make it look newer – oh, Rarity, you are a genius!”

“Uhh, wake up, Rarity! We’re not here to find trends. We’re here to find some dusty old book or something.” Rainbow reminded her.

“Uhh… I’m looking for a dusty old book.” Rarity reminded her. “I thought you were just going to protect me from falling debris?”

“Yeah and so far, nothing has fallen.” Rainbow said.

“Hmm…” Rarity observed one of the robes. “Yeah, these will definitely work!”

“Yeah well for a basement there seems to be a lot of different rooms.” Rainbow peeked her head out to the corridor. “One of them’s bound to be some kind of cool lab with a bunch of different potions. Oooh! Maybe one of them could turn me into a giant mutant rat! That would scare the bajeebers out of Pinkie!”

“Eh, do what you want.” Rarity shrugged.

Rainbow was just about to fly out of the room when suddenly she knocks into a shelf, and a box on top of the shelf started shaking and it falls right onto a statue and knocks it down. “Oh… woops.”

“Rainbow Dash!” Rarity said angrily at her. “Can we go on for five minutes without you breaking any-“ Just then, the wall next to the bust opened up a new passageway. “Well, I stand corrected. Your clumsiness has surely paid off!”

“It was NOT clumsiness!” Rainbow yelled at her. “I was just not paying attention!”

Rarity giggles. “Whatever you say, dear.” She then looks down into the corridor. “Hmm… we should tell the others about this.”

“No way! We can totally take care of ourselves!” Rainbow corrected her. “Or… I’m not sure you can, but I can!”

“Do what you want. I’m telling Twlight.” Rarity said as she walks out of the room.

“Hey, whoa, whoa, whoa! I’m coming with you!” Rainbow follows her.

“Scared to be alone?” Rarity asked.

“No! It’s just… dark, and I thought I needed a light, so… best to wait.” Rainbow fibbed.

“Mmhmm.” Rarity said, not caring.

“IT’S TOTALLY TRUE!” Rainbow yelled.

At the upper floors, AppleJack was searching around for any clues. “Find anythin’ yet, Fluttershy?” AppleJack asked, but there was no answer. “Fluttershy?” Behind AppleJack there was a plate of armor rattling. “Fluttershy, get outta there.”

“No! It’s too dark and scary in this castle!” Fluttershy said.

“And it’s not dark and scary in that armor?” AppleJack asked.

“Huh…” Fluttershy figured. “Good point.” Just then she immediately jumps out of the armor flying way into the air really fast, and then flying back down and holds onto AppleJack. “I don’t like this place, AppleJack! I find it to be a lot more scary than the Castle of the Two Sisters.”

“Why?” AppleJack asked. “There’s nothin’ different about this place.”

“You may think so, but I keep hearing roaring sounds down the halls. Could there be… a dr-dr-dragon or something?” Fluttershy stuttered.

“It’s not a dragon, Fluttershy. It’s just the blizzard wind outside. There’s nothin’ to worry about.” AppleJack said.

Fluttershy takes a deep breath and smiles. “You’re right, AppleJack. Now that I know it’s the wind, it doesn’t sound that bad anymore.” Fluttershy listens to it. “Come to think of it. I think it’s playing a song!”

“Well let’s not get too scared away, sugarcube. The wind does tend to blow on certain objects making it sound like it.” AppleJack said as she and Fluttershy continued walking.

“I kinda like it!” Fluttershy said as she started to sing with the wind.

AppleJack felt pretty relieved when Fluttershy wasn’t afraid anymore, but before she could continue searching, Rainbow flies up to them and says, “AppleJack! Fluttershy! We found something down at the basement. Perhaps it’s something worth looking into.”

“The b-b-b-basement?” Fluttershy stuttered. “I kinda like the singing wind better. There’s no wind in the basement. Just…” She gulps.

“Spiders? Cobwebs? Dust bunnies?” Rainbow asked.

“Oh that? Spiders are just adorable, and cobwebs and dust never bothered anypony.” Fluttershy said.

“Except Rarity.” AppleJack teased.

“But I just don’t feel comfortable in the dark, and I know this is an old castle and all, but… I… I really don’t like furnaces.” Fluttershy said.

“Well there’s no furnace here, Fluttershy. Just an old castle.” AppleJack informed her. “And trust me, Twilight will provide plenty of light. You’ll see!” She walks off.

“Oh… I hope you’re right, AppleJack.” Fluttershy said as she follows along.

Down in the basement, the Mane 6 all meet up down in the basement and looked into the secret passageway. “Are you sure this is where we’re supposed to be?” Rainbow asked.

“The secrets to alicorn magic can be very dangerous.” Twilight said. “A wise wizard like Starswirl the Bearded knows that just leaving the secrets lying around would cause chaos.”

“Somethin’ tells me a secret passageway won’t be the only thing in our way.” AppleJack said. Twilight lights up her horn and leads the rest of them down into the corridor. They walk down the circular stairs getting deeper underground.

Fluttershy shakes in nerves, and AppleJack knew she had to do something. “Remember, Fluttershy, if you’re too afraid, just keep singin’ that wind chime. It’ll keep ya calm.” AppleJack suggested.

“Oh… ok.” Fluttershy said as she started singing again. She sang as they walked, and all the singing was starting to annoy Rainbow, but before she could say anything, AppleJack shakes her head to her, and Rainbow sulked.

“Ooo! Ooo! Can I join along?” Pinkie asked.

“Oh… sure!” Fluttershy said as she started singing again, but then Pinkie started screaming which made Fluttershy’s eyes shrink in fright.

“Pinkie!” AppleJack yelled.

“Uhh… AppleJack?” Rainbow pointed in front of them. Twilight shines her light a little higher, and there it was, a giant rock creature that awakes from its slumber. It makes a big yawn, and it makes everypony else scream.

“AH HA! I told you there would be a giant rock monster!” Pinkie teased.

Back at the crystal palace, Starlight and Spike were watching Skyla sleep in her box. They were both staring at her with worried looks on their faces. “You feel it too.” Spike said to her.

“Feel what?” Starlight asked.

“You feel sorry for Skyla too, don’t you?” Spike asked.

“I do.” Starlight nodded.

“Wow, heh. What we said might make a good poem.” Spike chuckled.

“Spike… you think it’s wrong that Shining Armor and Cadance keep their daughter locked up in there?” Starlight asked.

“Wow… look who’s talking.” Spike said sarcastically.

“No I’m serious, Spike.” Starlight said. “She didn’t do anything wrong. She’s only a child. A baby trapped inside a box against her will, and it doesn’t even bother her.”

“She might feel that when she gets older though.” Spike assumed.

“Yeah… but… Shining and Cadance did say she needed to be in there.” Starlight said.

“But she’s so innocent.” Spike said. “She can’t just stay in there! She’s all alone while her parents just… leave her in there! They’re not doing anything about it!”

“I know! I really hope they have good reasons!” Starlight said angrily. “They leave a filly in there against her will! They just lock her up as if they’re dictators or something! I should march over to them and tell them it isn’t right!”

“No, Starlight! They won’t accept it.” Spike stopped her. “They think it’s best to leave her in there for the sake of the crystal ponies.”

Starlight thought it out, but then she knew what had to be done. “Spike… open the door.”

“What?!” Spike asked surprisingly.

“Open the door!” Starlight ordered.

“Starlight, I already let Cadance down twice. I don’t want to let her down again.” Spike said. “They told us to keep watch over Skyla while they plan for the Crystal Faire, and that’s what we’re doing.”

“You just said though that you think she’s miserable in there and it would affect her later in life!” Starlight reminded him.

“I know! I did! I-I wish we could let her out, but we can’t do that, Starlight!” Spike explained.

“If you won’t… I will. The door doesn’t even have a lock on it. I’ll just open it.” Starlight said as she walks over to the box’s door and was about to open the door, but Spike stops her.

“Wait, Starlight. I’ll do it.” Spike said as he walks over to the door. “At least Cadance trusts me. If she caught you doing it, I don’t know what would happen. Let me take the fall on this one.”

He places his claw on the handle as Starlight smiles and says, “You’re a good dragon, Spike. Not letting royalty tell you what to do, I’m really proud of you!”

“I’m not doing this to disobey royalty.” Spike said as he opens the door. “I’m doing what I think is right.” Spike starts walking into the box and walks over to Skyla’s crib. Skyla giggles as she kicks around. Spike smiles once he sees her. He then lets his arms down onto the crib and was about to pick her up, but that was when Shining and Cadance walk into the room.

“SPIKE! NO!” Cadance and Shining yelled. Spike picks Skyla up and then Skyla continues to giggle. As she giggles, her horn activates and her magic completely vaporizes the anti-magic box, and wind was blowing all around the room.

“What have you done, Spike?” Cadance mumbled worriedly and Starlight grins mischievously. Just as Skyla was giggling, her eyes for the first time open up revealing a white abyss within them.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Author's Note

I have a completely new story arc for this season, and what better way to start it off than having Shining Armor and Princess Cadance's baby being born? Of course Skyla is going to be born an alicorn, and I've always wondered if Celestia and Luna could control their magic when they were born? Most of this idea came from the Fairy Odd Parents episode: Fairly Odd Baby. Originally, Skyla's story was going to be more like that; villains stealing her and using her power for evil. Just then, I had an idea that involved Starswirl the Bearded, so that idea was scrapped and replaced with this.

I had this story planned a long time ago, but I didn't want to start it until season five was over. I had the feeling Starlight Glimmer would be reformed at the end (I saw it in the season five poster), so I wanted to add her in here. Originally it was just going to be Spike left behind with Skyla, but with Starlight along with Spike giving him reasons to open the glass box, it would start off a small relationship between Starlight and Spike, which would lead me to a Spike arc I have planned.

Link to Powerpuncher's Deviantart: http://powerpuncher.deviantart.com/

EDIT: So apparently Skyla's name was confirmed to be Princess Flurry Heart. I find that to be a dumb name, so I ain't changing her name on here. Like I said, this is MY season 6, not DHX's. ;)

The Cutie Castle - Part 2

(Mane Six vector by S-Guri)

When Spike frees Skyla from her imprisonment, Spike starts rocking her back to sleep. “Shhh, shhh. It’s ok, it’s ok, Skyla.”

“Spike… do you have any idea what you just did?” Cadance asked.

“You keep your newborn foal trapped inside a box. Do you have any idea how crazy that is?” Spike asked.

“Spike!” Cadance said angrily.

“Let me handle this, dear.” Shining suggested as he walked over to Spike. Spike continues to rock her as she falls back to sleep.

“It’s ok, Skyla.” Spike whispered. “Uncle Spike is here. He is here to keep you happy.”

“Spike, I hope you realize that Skyla needed that box to keep her and everypony else safe from magic surges.” Shining said.

“And she’s ok. She’s not doing anything wrong.” Spike said.

“Princess Cadance, Shining Armor?” Starlight asked. “I just wanted to say that this was my doing.”

“Wait, Starlight?” Spike asked.

“I asked him to take Skyla out of there because it doesn’t seem fair to her that you’d trap her in there like that.” Starlight said. “He couldn’t help himself. I told him how miserable she was in there”

“Huh… I see.” Shining said. “I’m going to have to talk to Twilight about this, Starlight. Can you… just please give her to me?”

“Oh… umm…” Spike thought.

“No he’s not doing that.” Starlight said.

“Excuse me?” Shining asked insultingly.

“If you thought you had the right to keep your daughter locked up, and now you think you have the nerve to take her?” Starlight asked. “You are not good parents!”

“Oh that’s right?” Shining asked angrily.

“Yes! That’s right!” Starlight said to his face.

“Shining? Starlight?” Cadance asked.

“You think you have the right to tell me how to be a good parent?!” Shining asked in her face. “As I know of, you are NOT a parent!”

“No, but I do know how it feels to be abandoned!” Starlight said.

“Uhh, guys?” Spike asked as Skyla started to wake up.

“I am NOT abandoning my daughter! I am keeping her safe from harm!” Shining yelled at her. “You telling Spike to let her out of there is a big mistake! Because of you, all of the Crystal Empire might be at stake! You have no idea how powerful alicorn magic is!”

“Uhh, guys?” Spike asked again as Skyla began to tear up and moan on his arms.

“Maybe I don’t, but at least I know how it feels to get tender, love, and care from parents! When my friend abandoned me, THEY WERE ALL I HAD!” Starlight yelled.

“I think you two should really stop-“ Spike started, but got interrupted.

“I waited all the time I was married to Cadance to finally start a family, AND YOU WILL NOT TAKE HER AWAY FROM ME!” Shining yelled as he grabs Skyla from Spike and then she starts to cry. When she cries, her eyes open revealing her glowing white abyss within them. As she started to cry, her magic began to kick in. Her magic shot at the ceiling and rubble started falling. Cadance used her magic to grab the falling rubble and push them aside. Shining started to panic. He began to rock Skyla and sing to her, but nothing worked, she was still crying, and her magic got even more powerful. “Cadance! I don’t know what to do!” Shining yelled. “Do you have a plan?!”

“I have one plan.” Cadance said as she uses her magic to perform a spell on Skyla, and just like that, magical energy started getting absorbed into Cadance. After a few moments, Skyla’s magic stopped and electric statics were forming all around Cadance. Skyla suddenly got exhausted and fell asleep.

“She stopped.” Shining said.

“What did she do?” Starlight asked.

“I… I…” Cadance said as she twitched. “I absorbed Skyla’s magical energy. I have all her magic now.”

“Why did you do that?” Shining asked. “That’s very dangerous.”

“It’s the only way to stop her now- now- now…” she twitched again.

“This is not good.” Shining said.

“Shining, I am so sorry about this!” Spike said. “I shouldn’ve let her out!”

“It’s ok, bro.” Shining said to him. “Your heart’s in the right place, but if we tell you to do something, then you have to do it. We told you that Skyla was dangerous.”

“I know, but… but…” Spike stuttered. Cadance continued to twitch hysterically.

“Cadance is in bad shape.” Shining said. “I’m going to take her to her room to rest, and I guess I should take Skyla with me since we can’t seem to trust you two with her.” Spike and Starlight both looked down upsettingly. “Just stay in here until Twilight gets back.” Shining takes Skyla and Cadance out of the room and shuts the door behind him.

“I can’t believe I just did that.” Spike said.

“Don’t blame yourself, Spike.” Starlight said. “It was my fault to begin with. I just encouraged you to do it. When Shining Armor tells Twilight this, I’m prepared for anything.”

“You’re not a bad pony, Starlight. I hope you know that.” Spike said to her.

Back at Starswirl the Bearded’s castle catacombs, the Mane Six get comforted by a giant rock monster. The giant rock monster yawns as it awakes from it’s slumber.

“Wh-wh-what is that, Twilight?” Fluttershy asked nervously.

“It’s a rockdog!” Twilight said. “I’ve heard stories about them! They’re heartless, emotionless beasts that were made to guard!”

“Who dares disturbs my slumber?” the rockdog asked.

“Who should be the one to tell him?” Rarity whispered.

“Let’s pretend we’re the pizza ponies delivering a large oat deluxe.” Pinkie whispered.

“It is us – the Guardians of Friendship.” Twilight said. “We hold the Elements of Harmony within us, and we come for the secrets of alicorn magic.”

“Hmm.” The rockdog observes the Mane Six. He then sniffs them. His snorts were so breezy that it made Rarity’s hair go up.

“Please don’t go into his nose! Please don’t go into his nose! Please don’t go into his nose!” Rarity mumbled nervously to herself. He then gives the Mane Six a lick.

“OW!” AppleJack yelled as she rubbed the skin burn on her cheek. “Those are definitely too solid to be dog kisses.”

“Hmm.” The rockdog said. “You are indeed the Elements of Harmony. Except… the elements are not worn by you, but more within you. You hold the power of the rainbow. It is beyond anything my master has ever researched.”

“And who might you be, pile of stones?” Rainbow asked angrily.

“I… I am the guardian of the Bank of Starswirl the Bearded.” The rockdog said. “My name is Crunch. I protect Starswirl the Bearded’s secret ancient magics for all eternality; unless a pony has proven themselves worthy of borrowing them.”

“Borrow?” Rainbow asked.

“Yes… borrow.” Crunch said. “Everything that is owned by Starswirl the Bearded, stays owned by Starswirl the Bearded. But if you are in great need of the book you seek, then you must first pass a series of tests.”

Twilight smiled and let out a squee, and Rainbow Dash frowned with a flop. “We can handle anything, Crunch! We’re ready!” Twilight said.

“Very well then.” Crunch said. “Each of you will be individually completing a series of tests.”

“And then we’re done?” Rainbow asked.

“Oh you’ll see.” Crunch said as he opens the vault.

“And what might these tests be exactly?” AppleJack asked.

“You will find out when you see them.” Crunch said. “If all of you are what you claim to be, then you must prove it. In you go, but once you get in, the only way out is failure. If you quit… you will never have another chance. Good luck.” Crunch then falls apart into several smaller rocks and they roll through the vault before the Mane Six have a chance to get in there. Once all of the rock pieces roll into the vault, the cavern lights up.

“Let’s do this girls!” Twilight said as she leads the group into the vault. After about a minute of walking, a red beam starts scanning the Mane Six from the sides of them.

“What in tarnation is this contraption?” AppleJack asked.

“Ooo pretty lights!” Pinkie said as she started poking her hooves through the scanning beams. When the scanner scans the other Mane Six after Pinkie, Pinkie began chasing the beam making ‘wah wah wah’ sounds. The beam then flashes green when it hits AppleJack’s cutie mark; and then it eventually disables. “Awww.” She whined.

“What in blue blazes was that for?” AppleJack asked.

“It’s a scanning process.” Crunch said as his rolling rocks come together, combine and reformed him in front of another vault door. “Welcome to the first test. In this test, the Element of Honesty known as AppleJack must complete this trial in order for all of you to advance to the next area.”

“Is there any way we can help her?” Twilight asked.

“She must complete this trial all on her own.” Crunch said. “No assistance whatsoever.”

“Don’t worry, Twilight. Ah’ll be fine.” AppleJack insisted. “Ah’ve delt with many situations mahself. Ah can handle it. It shouldn’t be too hard.”

“Ooooo, don’t jinx it!” Pinkie said nervously as she started biting her hoof-nails. AppleJack walks into the next chamber, but feels a little nervous, but she knows what she needs to do. The door shuts behind her which startles her a bit, and all there was is pitch darkness.

“Uhh, hello?” AppleJack called out. “Anypony here? Helloooooo?!” Just then, a door appears right across from her. AppleJack walks over to it and opens it, and just like that, she ends up in the middle of the kitchen at Sweet Apple Acres. “Sweet Apple Acres? What the? What am ah doin’ here?” AppleJack began searching around the barn to see if she could find anything useful to answer her question.

She walks into the living room, and there was still nopony around. “Uhh, Granny Smith?” AppleJack called out. “Big Mac? Apple Bloom? Anypony here?” She then walks upstairs and checks out the upstairs rooms. She walks into Apple Bloom’s room and looks around. “Apple Bloom? You in here, sugarcube?” She searches around the room to see if she could find anything. Nopony was in there, but she does find something on the bed. A journal. “Apple Bloom’s journal? Ah didn’t know she had one.” AppleJack takes the journal and starts reading it.

“Dear journal, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and I went out for to help out other ponies in discovering their special talents. Unfortunately though, we got rained out and had to take shelter at Carousel Boutique.” Just then, thunder started rumbling outside. “What in tarnation?” AppleJack asked as she then continued reading. “Rarity was feeling very angry today saying that somepony stole all her glitter. We offered to help once the rain stopped. We searched all around town but couldn’t find it. We decided to turn in for the night and continue tomorrow.” AppleJack puts the book down and asks herself, “What is this about? When did this happen? Why would anypony steal Rarity’s- WHOA!” Just then, on Apple Bloom’s bed, there was a sack that just appeared out of nowhere. “That WASN’T there before!”

AppleJack opens the sack and takes a look inside, and saw there was tons of glitter inside. “Apple Bloom?! Did you steal all this glitter?” AppleJack asked. She then put the book up again and continued reading it. “Dear journal, the crusaders and I continued looking for the glitter. There was still no trace of it, but a number of other things were stolen today. Fluttershy’s hair brush, Rainbow Dash’s signed photo of Spitfire, Spike’s collection of gems, and even all of Cheerilee’s pencils. My friends and I were stumped and couldn’t find any clues on where they were hidden. We had to call it a day. We’ll find out the source tomorrow.”

AppleJack was getting more and more confused. “This is really gettin’ spooky. Ah don’t understand how- WAH!” AppleJack gets surprised to see that a hair brush has suddenly appeared on the bed. “Is that… Fluttershy’s hair brush? But… no! It can’t be! Apple Bloom’s no thief! She can’t be!” AppleJack then looks on the wall and sees a photo hanging on the wall. She reads it, “To Rainbow Dash, stay blazing. Spitfire.” And then AppleJack finds an open chest and sees a collection of gems inside. “WHOA! Ok this is gettin’ way out of hoof!”

“But ah didn’t do it! Ah swear!” Apple Bloom cried from downstairs.

“Apple Bloom!” AppleJack cried. She then runs downstairs and in the kitchen, Apple Bloom was getting interrogated by police officers.

“The evidence is right here, filly.” The officer said holding up a baggy full of pencils. “You think you’d have the chance to get away with this? You may be a filly, but that is no reason to be a criminal.”

“BUT AH AIN’T A CRIMINAL!” Apple Bloom cried. “AH DUNNO HOW THAT GOT THERE!”

“Apple Bloom… why? Why would you do this to us?” Granny Smith asked hysterically. “You… you disgraced us all!”

Big Mac sniffled and said, “Eeyup.”

“But this was all a set-up!” Apple Bloom yelled. “Somepony put it all there! AppleJack! Help!”

“AppleJack…” The officer puts down his sunglasses down to his nose and glares at AppleJack. “You are the Element of Honesty, are you not?”

“Ah am.” AppleJack said.

“I see you have Apple Bloom’s journal with you.” The officer saw.

“Umm… yeah.” AppleJack said worriedly.

“Perhaps you could tell us the truth.” The officer said. “Did Apple Bloom steal a bunch of valuable merchandise?”

“Ah know mah little sister ain’t a criminal.” AppleJack said. “Right, Big Mac? Do ya agree?” Big Mac doesn’t say anything. “Big Mac?”

“But does the evidence prove that?” the officer asked pointing to the journal.

AppleJack looks down at the journal and reads the next page. It reads: “I continue to look for the missing items with my friends. I’m so glad that they don’t suspect anything. They have no clue that I’m the one that stole all that.”

AppleJack gasps after she read it. “Well?” the officer asked. “You’re the Element of Honesty. Tell us the truth. The evidence is in this house. Somepony took them. Somepony here is going away for a long time.”

“Yeah!” the other officer agreed. “Imprisonment! Or banishment! Or imprisonment where you get banished!”

“Ok, settle down, Star.” The first officer instructed him.

AppleJack looks at her family, and then she looks at her sister who was tearing up and begging AppleJack to help her. “If you don’t tell the truth, AppleJack… you won’t get what you want.” The officer said.

AppleJack took a deep breath and said, “Ah did it.”

“What?!” everypony yelled.

“No! AppleJack!” Apple Bloom cried.

“It was me. All me. Ah stole all that merchandise because we were incredibly in debt and ah needed to save the farm.” AppleJack said. “If yer goin’ to take me away for a long time, then so be it.” AppleJack picks up her hooves, waiting to get cuffed. “Ah’m ready to go.”

“APPLEJACK!” Apple Bloom cried.

“You’re a good filly, Apple Bloom.” AppleJack said upsettingly as she magically appears in a cage. “You’re a very good… filly…” Just then AppleJack suddenly wakes up back into the caverns. “AAAH!” she cried.

“AppleJack?! AppleJack what’s wrong?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah you sound like you saw a ghost.” Pinkie said as she lifts up her tail showing a sheet over it.

“Ah… ah… what happened?” AppleJack asked.

“Are you ready to begin your trial or what?” Rainbow asked. “We’re in a tight schedule.” Just then, the scanner beam appears again and it marks green on Rarity’s cutie mark.

“Rarity – the Element of Generosity – it is your turn to take the trials.” Crunch said.

“Say what now?” Rarity asked. “But AppleJack didn’t do hers yet!”

“I’m in charge of the trials. So it’s either you go in, or you won’t get what you came here for.” Crunch informed her. “What’s it going to be, Rarity?”

“Good luck in there.” AppleJack said to her. Rarity begins to nervously walk over to the open vault door, but she doesn’t go inside yet. “Ok what just happened?” AppleJack asked.

“You passed the trial, AppleJack.” Crunch said.

“But ah wasn’t honest! Ah lied to save Apple Bloom from imprisonment!” AppleJack said.

“Uhh… what?” Rainbow asked.

“Honesty works more than just being honest, AppleJack.” Crunch said. “Lying to save a loved one’s life can make a big difference.”

“Ok, I never thought I’d say this, but my brain is really feeling not right, right now.” Pinkie said as she flops face first on the ground.

“AAAH!” Rarity cried as she wakes up near the vault door.

“What’s going on, Rarity? Are you going to go into the vault door or what?” Rainbow asked.

“I WAS JUST IN THERE!” Rarity yelled.

“And… how was it?” Fluttershy asked.

“HOW WAS IT?!” Rarity yelled at her which made Fluttershy nervous. “HOW WAS IT?! I had to choose! I had all the gems in the world to complete my collection of dresses! I had to use them!”

“Wait… Rarity, what’s the choice?” Twilight asked.

“Well… Ponyville was starving.” Rarity said. “Everypony was homeless, starving, had no food. I had to do something. So I… I gave up all my gems to save everypony. I made all my customers from Canterlot disappointed. I sold them out!”

“Yep! And she did that all by laying down on the ground!” Pinkie said. “Story of my life!”

“Wait a minute.” Twilight thought. “The trials… they’re not real.”

“Oh I saw what happened, Twilight! It seemed very real! Very real indeed!” Rarity said.

“Well… they’re not.” Twilight said. “But we have to treat them like real life. Crunch is testing our skills out. In all the trials, we have to sacrifice one thing to save things that are more valuable, like Apple Bloom, or the entire Ponyville population, but that would also mean making other ponies unhappy.”

“Well… you can’t make everypony happy.” Fluttershy said.

“Yeah, sometimes you gotta fail other ponies for a greater cause.” AppleJack said. Just then, another scanning beam scanned the Mane Six and lit green on Pinkie Pie’s cutie mark.

“Pinkie Pie – Element of Laughter – you are next.” Crunch said.

“Okie dokie lokie!” Pinkie said excitedly.

“Pinkie… good luck in there!” Twilight said.

“Pffft! It’s Element of Laughter! How bad can it be?” Pinkie asked. “There are never any compromises for LAUGHTER!”

Back at the crystal palace, while Shining was planning for the Crystal Faire at the desk while Cadance was lying on a sofa with Skyla laying next to her. Cadance tries to relax after absorbing all of Skyla’s magic, so she thought it would help her relax if she sung to Skyla.

“Skyla, I promise, I will always love you till the end of time. You will bring peace and happiness across the Crystal Empire.” She muzzles Skyla’s head. “You will be amazing with your parents by your side, you will get everything your heart desires.”

Shining walks over to his wife and child sings along with her. “Skyla… you may wonder how that name… comes to mind. The sky… it means you will bring the spirit of the crystal ponies… really high. Skyla… it also means you will bring love… for all you meet. You’re trustworthy… you will never be dishonest, or will cheat.”

Shining and Cadance both hold hooves and both sing to Skyla, “Out of all the choices you make, we will always love you. Out of everything we do, we do the best things for you. Don’t you forget, we are always there for you. As long as the stars glow brightly in the skkkkkky… Skyla.”

Meanwhile, during the instrumental solo, Pinkie enters her trial in the vault. The crowd at the comedy club chants for Pinkie and cheers out for her. At the dressing room in the back, the stage manager comes in and says to Pinkie, “Pinkie Pie, 2 minutes till you go on.”

“Woo hoo!” Pinkie cheers. “This is going to be the best magic show ever!”

“Comedy show.” The manager corrected her.

“Comedy show!” Pinkie said right away. “I said it first.”

“Well, you’re almost on.” The manager said. “This show is going to be make you rich and famous! You’re going to make all of Equestria laugh for all eternity! Good job cancelling out on your sister’s birthday for your own flame and glory and helping everypony else in Equestria smile! I’m so proud of you!”

“Wait… my sister’s… birthday?” Pinkie asked.

“You don’t need those lowlives that study… ROCKS! Worry about your own life and helping other ponies smile!” the manager said to her.

“Oh… but… but… I gotta go.” Pinkie suddenly runs out of the dressing room and through backstage, passing the ponies that want an autograph from her, and passing the agent with a contract, and even passing the plate of jelly donuts. But she reversed back to the donuts and ate one because who wouldn’t miss out on jelly donuts? She then runs out the back door of the club and yells, “I NEVER miss a sister’s birthday party! NEVER!”

As Pinkie started running through the streets of Manehattan, passing by all her fame and glory, Shining and Cadance continued to sing, “Family is the most important thing that’s ever made. The greatest gift of friendship that nopony can ever trade. Our love will never break it cannot be suede. As long as there are that stars that glow brightly in the skyyyyyy… Skyla.”

That was when the Manehattan streets slowly merge with the rock farm, and Pinkie bursts through the door and meets up with her family who were sitting in the dining room, barely touching the still candle-lit rock cake. Pinkie cries out, “I am so sorry I am late! I wouldn’t give any of you up for all the smiles in Equestria!” Pinkie’s family smiles. “Just one question though… which one of my sister’s birthday is it?”

Back at the crystal palace, Shining and Cadance conclude the song, “We will keep you safe in our arms… as long… as there are stars, that glow brightly… innnnn theeeeee skyyyyyyyyyy.” Then they both share a family hug and say, “Skyla.” As the song ends.

Over by the door, Spike and Starlight were outside peeking their heads through, listening the whole time. Spike felt upset, but Starlight just smirked. “I don’t buy it.” Starlight said. “It’s probably pity-love.”

“Pity-love?!” Spike asked surprisingly. “If what I just heard wasn’t love in general, then I don’t know what is!”

“You think them confessing their love to their daughter like is going to make-up what they did to her, then you’re probably more gullible than I thought!” Starlight said.

“I am not gullible… much!” Spike admitted. “I know I may not know much about love. I’m still learning about friendship myself, but I’ve known Shining Armor and Princess Cadance long enough to know that they are the symbols of love. I’ve seen it at their wedding, I’ve seen it when the Crystal Empire returned, I’ve seen it a number of times you wouldn’t even imagine. I know they love Skyla. We were wrong to accuse of them of not!”

Starlight takes a deep sigh and says, “You’re right, Spike. You probably know a lot more friendship than I do. I’ve only had true friendship once in my entire life before Twilight came into the picture. I’ve made so many mistakes in my life, you wouldn’t understand.”

“Oh I don’t?” Spike asked. “I got jealous of an owl, I let greed take control of me, I let my love for Rarity take the best of me, and I even let fame and control take the best of me. I’ve made so many mistakes you wouldn’t even imagine. But every single time I did them, I was forgiven, and Twilight forgave you too. You know why?” Spike places his claw on Starlight’s shoulder. “Because she cares.”

“You really think so?” Starlight asked.

“I know so.” Spike nodded.

“Is that why you’ve been her assistant for her so long? Because she cares for you?” Starlight asked.

“Well… yeah… I… I actually thought she needed me for her princess duties.” Spike said. “I mean, someone has to keep that pony sane.”

“But have you ever wished you could be someone else?” Starlight asked.

“Well I had these dreams of being Rarity’s prince rescuing her from some evil-“ Spike started, but Starlight interrupts him.

“I meant your destiny.” Starlight said. “Did you ever have a choice? Have you ever wanted to do other things? Have you ever thought that there’s more to your life than just being an assistant?”

“Well, I…” Spike pauses and he starts to think. “Huh… did I have a choice?”

Meanwhile back at the catacombs, Fluttershy was just finishing up her challenge by angrily instructing a bully pony, “Now you listen here, mister! How would you feel if somepony said those things to you?! You wouldn’t feel good now would you?!”

“Well… I…” the bully stuttered.

“I want you to apologize to him… right… now!” Fluttershy ordered him.

“Umm… sorry.” The bully said to the colt.

“Like you mean it!” Fluttershy demanded.

“Sorry I called your collection of dolls to be girly.” The bully said to him.

“It’s no big deal. We all have our hobbies.” The colt said, and just like that, Fluttershy wakes up back into the caverns.

“Wow, it makes sense.” Fluttershy said to her friends.

“What happened?” Twilight asked.

“I am the Element of Kindness, but I wasn’t being kind to the bully at all. I had to be aggressive to show kindness to the little colt.” Fluttershy said.

“Wow! Sounds much easier than my trial!” Rainbow complained. “I mean you had it easy, Fluttershy. I had to choose between staying in the Wonderbolts and my friends. It wasn’t an easy answer that’s for sure.”

“Yeah, but luckily you know better, Rainbow Dash.” Rarity said.

“The old me would’ve joined the Wonderbolts in a heartbeat!” Rainbow said. “After I met you guys, it really brought back out the loyalty in me.”

“Well, that’s all of us!” Pinkie said.

“Not quite.” AppleJack corrected her. “Twilight hasn’t had her trial yet.”

“With the Element of Magic… I don’t think it’s going to be easy.” Twilight said. Just then, Crunch’s rock pieces roll down to the next vault door and reformed Crunch again.

“The Element of Magic trial is right through this vault.” Crunch said. “Only this time, it’s going to be a little different. This time – all of you are going in.”

“Say what now?” Rainbow asked. “You mean we had to go in alone, but Twilight gets to have all of us?!”

“Problem, Rainbow?” AppleJack teased.

“NO! I can totally take care of myself! I just find this unfair is all.” Rainbow said.

“Let me ask all of you a question.” Crunch started. “How can the Element of Magic be made without the other five elements?”

“It’s truelio!” Pinkie said.

“That’s right. When we first used the elements, the Element of Magic couldn’t be summoned without the other five elements.” Twilight explained. “That’s what binds us together.”

“So it looks like we’re all goin’ in.” AppleJack said.

“I guess so.” Twilight said.

“Just don’t think it’ll be easy.” Crunch said as he breaks apart again and the rocks roll inside the vault. The Mane Six all follow inside and the vault doors close them behind them.

“We better not be lying down outside once this is over.” Rarity hoped, just as a bunch of rocks appeared and started surround the Mane Six. Each of them tried to back away from them until they all covered their bodies leaving their heads to stick out. Twilight was the only one that the rocks haven’t covered. They all struggled to get out but the rocks barely budged.

“This really doesn’t look good for my image!” Rainbow said. “Trapped under a pile of rocks!”

“Don’t worry, Dashie. I’ll call in an expert to help us!” Pinkie offered. “Maaaaaud! Maaaaaaaud!”

“Speak louder, Pinkie. I don’t think they heard you back at your farm.” Rainbow suggested sarcastically.

“Good idea – MAAAAAAUD!” Pinkie shouted, which made Rainbow cringe.

“Welcome to the final trial, Twilight Sparkle.” Crunch said.

“What have you done with my friends, Crunch?” Twilight asked angrily.

“Incapacitated, but that’s not important.” Crunch said. “In order to free them, you have to make a choice.”

“And what might that choice be?” Twilight asked.

“You must choose which one to set free.” Crunch said.

Twilight suddenly gasps. “What do you mean I have to choose which one to set free?”

“I mean you can only choose one of your friends to come with you to join you in your task.” Crunch said. “Everypony else must stay here… forever.”

The Mane Six all gasp. “Forever?!” Pinkie yelled. “That’s only a day more than forever minis one!”

“Twilight, whatever you do… you have to choose wisely!” Rainbow said. “And quite frankly… anypony else but me is fine.”

“No! Rainbow has a future! Leave me be instead.” Rarity insisted dramatically. “With me gone, my name shall live on as my boutiques shall be more popular when their owner goes down in history, and goes out a hero!”

“Wow, Rarity, that’s deep.” AppleJack said.

“Oh thank you! I was saving it for a future play I was one day going to act in!” Rarity said.

“No! Neither one of them! I should be the one to stay behind!” Fluttershy insisted.

“You Fluttershy? Please! You wouldn’t last! You should definitely take her, Twilight.” Rainbow insisted.

“Honestly, Rainbow Dash! Is that any way to talk to her? And why choose her over me?” Rarity asked.

“You wanted to stay, and I was like… meh.” Rainbow shrugged.

“I don’t care who you pick, Twilight!” Pinkie insisted. “Maud will be here any minute and save us all!”

“Now hang on, this is Twilight’s choice. Let us not provoke her.” AppleJack informed them.

“Oh now you’re going to make us all look bad and she might pick you, AppleJack?” Rainbow asked angrily.

“Ah want Twilight to pick who she should pick without us blabberin’ about it, RAINBOW DASH!” AppleJack said angrily.

“ENOUGH!” Twilight yelled. “If I’m going to pick, I need absolute concentration! I need to think!” So everypony stayed quiet as Twilight began to think about who she should save. It was the hardest decision Twilight has ever made. She has to choose one friend out of all the rest.

“C’mon, Twilight! You done this before! Think of the gala ticket!” Pinkie reminded her.

“Pinkie! Shush!” Rainbow instructed her.

“The gala ticket…” Twilight whispered to herself, and then her brain hatched an idea. “I have made my decision, Crunch.”

“I am listening.” Crunch said.

“I choose…” Twilight started as all of Twilight’s friends paid attention dramatically, and just then, Twilight gives her answer, “Nopony.”

“Huh?!” all of Twilight’s friends asked surprisingly.

“Nopony?” Crunch asked. “You mean you wish to go on alone without your friends?”

“Nope. Not me either.” Twilight said. “If one of us stays inside these catacombs forever, all of us stay in here forever.” Twilight looks back at her friends and they all smile. “Together. We are friends forever, no matter the cost; and even though my brother and sister-in-law have to figure out teaching Skyla to control her magic themselves, it’s price I have to pay to make sure my friends are safe.”

“Oh Twilight, you didn’t need to do that.” Fluttershy said.

“I had to. How would I be able to live my life knowing that I abandoned my friends?” Twilight asked.

“I wouldn’t be able to survive that’s for sure!” Pinkie said. “I’d never be happy again!”

“Me neither!” Fluttershy agreed.

“Well done, Twilight Sparkle.” Crunch said. “You have passed the final trial. You six truly are the Elements of Harmony. You are free to enter the vault and take what you need.” Crunch frees the rest of the Mane Six from the clutches of his rocks and everypony cheers. “I just hope you brought the key with you.” Just then, everypony stopped cheering.

“What key?” Twilight asked.

“You never mentioned anythin’ about a key, Crunch.” AppleJack reminded him.

“Nopony can enter the vault without the two-halves the key.” Crunch said.

“The… two-halves… of the key?!” Twilight panicked. “Well where is it?!”

“Back in the lounge area in the castle.” Crunch said.

“May we go get it?” Twilight asked.

“But then you’d forfeit the trial and can never return.” Crunch said.

“WHAT?!” the Mane Six all yelled.

“Master’s orders. I’m sorry.” Crunch said.

“You mean… we came all this way… FOR NOTHING?!” Twilight yelled.

“Think of it like this: our friends are stronger, isn’t it?” Rarity asked.

Twilight started to tear up. “All this way… all of that… all for nothing! How will Skyla be controlled?! She’s going to stay in that bubble forever, all because of a dumb key.” All of Twilight’s friends walked over to her to comfort her.

“Two-halves of a key.” Crunch reminded her.

“You’re really not helping, boulder brains!” Rainbow informed him.

“Well… at least I have my souvenirs!” Pinkie said as she takes out the two book markers from upstairs.

“Two book markers?” AppleJack asked.

“Ahh, so you have brought the key with you!” Crunch understood. “Well done, Pinkie Pie!”

“Wait, what?” Twilight asked as she wipes her eyes and looks at the book markers. She then uses her magic to grab the book markers out of Pinkie’s hooves.

“HEY!” Pinkie yelled. Twilight then carefully collides the two book markers together, and just like that, they get attached together.

“Got it!” Twilight said excitedly. She then runs over to the vault and inserts the key into the slot, and just like that, the wheel on the vault begins to turn, all the locks get disengaged, and the vault door opens.

“Whoooa!” the Mane Six all wooed at all of the books that were inside the vault. It was like another whole library.

“We did it, girls!” AppleJack said.

“Yeah we sure did!” Rainbow agreed.

“Starswirl the Bearded has so many secrets!” Twilight said shockingly as her eyes grew wide.

“Well, every great unicorn has their secrets, Twilight.” Rarity said.

“I have to come back here again! There is so much about Starswirl the Bearded that I need to learn!” Twilight said.

“Let’s stay focused on the task at hoof, sugarcube. We can focus on secrets later.” AppleJack reminded her.

Twilight snaps herself out of it and agrees. “You’re right. Let’s find what we’re looking for and get back to the Crystal Empire.”

Back at the palace, Skyla was whimpering and grunting on Cadance’s hooves. “Shining, Skyla’s feeling very ill right now.”

“What?!” Shining gasped. “Why?”

“It’s her magic. Magic in a pony keeps them healthy.” Cadance said. “I took her magic, and now she’s feeling very sick.”

“Well we can’t just give her the magic back, can we?” Shining asked. “She’ll be unstable again.”

“But it is the right thing to do.” Starlight said as she and Spike walk into the room.

“Oh not this again!” Shining rolled his eyes. “How about you mind your own business and let us worry about ours, ok?”

“If the box thing wasn’t bad, taking your child’s magic away definitely is.” Starlight said. “It’s like taking candy from a baby!”

“Or in this case, taking magic from a baby.” Spike said.

“Starlight, I won’t allow you to-“ Shining started, but gets interrupted by Cadance.

“No… she’s right.” She said. “We took something very valuable away from our foal, and we kept her imprisoned in a box. What kind of parents are we, Shining?”

“But… Skyla’s magic!” Shining reminded her.

“And we-we-we-we’re ready fo-for…” Cadance twitched, but before she could finish, Shining places her hoof on Cadance’s shoulder and then nods in agreement. Cadance activates her magic and the extra magic that should took from Skyla gets absorbed back into Skyla. Once that was done, Skyla began to float; not by her wings, but by her magic. Cadance collapses on the floor from exhaustion and Shining catches her. All four of them look up and watched as Skyla’s magic activates. When her eyes open to reveal her abyss eyes her magic started going out of control.

“This is not good!” Shining said worriedly.

“Skyla… no matter what you do… we will always… love you!” Cadance cried out as she started to get teary eyed. Just then, Skyla’s magic starts to slow down becoming less aggressive. “Wait, she’s starting to calm down!”

“That’s because she needed you this whole time!” Starlight said. “The key to controlling her magic is love and trust, and you haven’t been trusting her enough!”

“Exactly!” Spike agreed. “When I took Skyla out of her box and showed her affection, she was calm. If you want her to be calm, you have show her that you really trust her, and love her. Not just by saying the words, but just doing it!”

Shining and Cadance both looked at eachother and then they looked up at Skyla and smiled at her. “Skyla…”

Shining and Cadance both looked at eachother, and then they both sang, “Skyla, I promise, I will always love you till the end of time. You will bring peace and happiness across the Crystal Empire. No matter what choices you make, we will always appreciate you. As long as the stars glow brightly in the skyyyyy…” Skyla’s magic rage eventually died down and she started to slowly float back down to her parents. “As long… as the stars… glow brightly… innnn theeeee skyyyyyyyyyyy.” Skyla lands on her parents’ hooves, and the family gives her a hug. Spike and Starlight smile, then they look at eachother and knew they were successful.

“Spike… Starlight… you both really inspired us today.” Cadance said.

“Yeah.” Shining agreed. “You may not be parents like us, but… you both do know what a young pony really wants.”

“We were wrong to accuse you. You were right.” Cadance said.

“Wow!” Spike said impressively. “For once I did right!”

“Hey this is the first time I’ve done right!” Starlight said. “I guess it’s not every day that you make mistakes.”

“You got that right, Starlight!” Spike agreed.

After a little while later, the Mane Six have returned to the crystal palace with the book. They opened the doors into the room Skyla was in and Twilight calls out, “Shining! Cadance! We’re back! We got the book!”

“Shhhh!” Shining, Cadance, Spike, and Starlight all shushed her as they were hanging over Skyla’s crib, watching her sleep. The Mane Six realized what’s happened, so they all walked over to the crib to see what was happening, and they all saw Skyla fast asleep in her crib.

“What’s going on?” Rainbow whispered.

“Yeah, why isn’t Skyla in her box?” AppleJack whispered.

“If she’s not using it anymore, can I have it?” Pinkie whispered.

“It was wrong of us to put, Skyla in the box.” Cadance said. “We should’ve trusted her more. Spike and Starlight Glimmer here helped us see that.”

“Really now?” Twilight asked with a smile as she looked at them.

“Aww shucks!” Spike blushed.

“We learned it all from you, Twilight!” Starlight said. Just then, all of the Mane Six’s cutie marks began to glow.

“Woo we! Job well done!” AppleJack cheered.

“Well… you won’t believe of the friendship adventure I have to tell you!” Twilight said to Spike and Starlight.

“Well, that’s funny, Twilight, because I have one to tell you too!” Starlight said.

“Oh yeah?” Twilight asked as she gave her a smirk. “Bet it doesn’t beat mine.” They both laughed.

“You know what, Twilight? I think being your student might’ve been a great choice after all!” Starlight admitted.

“That’s good to hear!” Twilight said as she walked over to Skyla’s crib. “May I?” Shining and Cadance both nodded. Twilight then excitedly picks Skyla up with her magic and places her on her arms. “Hi, Skyla! It’s me, your Auntie Twilight! If you ever need a foalsitter, come to me! I’ll give you the best time of your life, as your mother once gave me.” Cadance smiled at her comment. Just then, Skyla’s eyes open for the first time, without the white abyss, showing her sapphire blue eyes. Twilight starts to get tears of joy upon seeing them.

“Well… all’s well that ends well, huh Spike?” Starlight asked him.

“Mmhm.” Spike agreed.

“Are you ok, Spike?” Starlight asked. “You sound a little down.”

“Well… I was thinking of what you said, about me having a choice of what my destiny should be.” Spike said.

“What about it?” Starlight asked.

“And I think you’re right.” Spike said. “Maybe being Twilight’s assistant isn’t supposed to be my destiny, and I’m going to look for it.”

“Good luck with that.” Starlight said. “You need any help?”

“I think this is something I should do on my own.” Spike said. “But… if you could help by not telling anypony this… I don’t want Twilight or the others to worry about me. Can you keep a secret?” Starlight smiles and nods.

Just then, Skyla starts to cry. “Oh no!” Cadance cried. As Skyla began to cry, her magic began to surge again, but then Fluttershy immediately starts to sing the tune she heard at the castle, and just like that, Skyla returns right to sleep. “Wow! That was beautiful, Fluttershy! You need to teach us that one! It may come in handy!” Fluttershy giggled and blushed at her comment as Shining, Cadance, Twilight, and Skyla all shared a hug.

Author's Note

The second part! Having two different morals of the story was completely unintentional, but I wanted the Mane Six to have their own adventure testing out their skills with their unique friendship elements, it may come in handy for later in the story. Plus, I wanted Spike, Starlight, Shining, and Cadance to have their own little story with Skyla and learning about the wonderful lessons of parenthood. This is also the start of a Spike story-arc I have in store in this story, because... why not?

Now Crunch the Rockdog, he was a G1 My Little Pony character, and I thought it would be nice if he had his debut in here, with a completely different personality, but still emotionless. I also had this interesting theory that he is actually Starswirl the Bearded's pet rockdog that now has a purpose of guarding Starswirl's magical secrets. This is also the beginning of the Starswirl story-arc I have in store for the story! So this chapter is basically the start of two story-arcs!

Now Starlight Glimmer, I wanted her to be helpful in here, but still having her old ways still kept within her of equality. It shows that Starlight does want to change for the better, but she still kinda believes in her own ways, and she is far from perfect. That is why I added a relationship between Starlight and Spike, as they would have so much in common in this scenario.

Also I hope you like Shining Armor and Cadance's duet that I added in here! :D It's not often that I make up my own lyrics.

Link to S-Guri''s: http://s-guri.deviantart.com/

Cutie Marks the Spot!

Over at the Cutie Mark Crusaders Treehouse, Twist opens the door to the treehouse and starts walking out. “Thanks for comin’, Twist!” Apple Bloom waved. “Ah hope the advice we gave you about your cutie mark was useful enough! Come back anytime!” Apple Bloom then closes the door behind her. She then happily says to her friends, “Another happy pony with advice about her destiny, wouldn’t you say, crusaders?”

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo both glared at Apple Bloom. “Seriously?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Yeah, all she did was blabber about her peppermint sticks being too undercooked, or overcooked, or not looking pretty enough.” Scootaloo complained.

“Yeah, really, like what’s her problem?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Doesn’t she remind of you Rarity in a way though, Sweetie Belle?” Scootaloo teased as she elbows her.

“What are you trying to do, Scootaloo? Make Twist feel like a sister to me?” Sweetie Belle asked upsettingly.

“Now, now, crusaders. Ah know some of our clients have been… questionable, but it’s our duty as the Cutie Mark Crusaders to help anypony in need that has a problem with their cutie marks.” Apple Bloom said.

“Clients? Is that what you’re calling them now?” Scootaloo asked.

“Ah don’t think you two are really gettin’ it.” Apple Bloom thought. “As the Cutie Mark Crusaders, we have to help anypony in need that has to do with their destinies. Sometimes ponies need help in findin’ out what their destinies are, and sometimes ponies wonder why they had their cutie marks in the first place. Remember we helped Diamond Tiara in discoverin’ what her talent actually meant?”

“That she’s a bossy?” Scootaloo asked.

“No! That she’s a leader.” Apple Bloom corrected her.

“I don’t see the difference.” Sweetie Belle said.

“There’s a huge different!” Apple Bloom informed her as she starts pacing back and forth. “A leader is somepony that knows what’s best for the team. A boss is only after her own benefits, and as of lately, Diamond Tiara has been more of a leader and less of a boss, and she’s never been any happier.”

“Yeah, you’re right, Apple Bloom.” Scootaloo agreed.

“I still can’t wait to see who we’re going to help next!” Sweetie Belle said excitedly. Just then, there was a knock on the door.

“Come in!” Apple Bloom called out.

When the door opened, it turned out to be Silver Spoon who was knocking. “Hello, crusaders!” she said mischievously.

The crusaders were a bit surprised to see Silver Spoon visiting them, especially alone without Diamond Tiara. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle felt uneasy with the situation, but Apple Bloom didn’t seem to mind. “Howdy, Silver Spoon!” Apple Bloom said excitedly. “What brings you ‘round these parts?”

“Well… I’ve been thinking… since you helped Diamond Tiara discover what her cutie mark really means, I thought, like, maybe you should totally help me discover mine too!” Silver Spoon suggested.

“Of course, Silver Spoon! We’re always there to help ponies in need who have a hard time figurin’ out what their cutie marks mean!” Apple Bloom accepted.

“Oh good, thanks!” Silver Spoon said. “It feels good to know we have friends like you to help us!”

“Um, Apple Bloom? Can we speak to you for a moment?” Sweetie Belle asked as she and Scootaloo both had annoyed looks on their faces.

“Please excuse us for a moment.” Apple Bloom said to Silver Spoon as she walks over to her friends.

“Take your time.” Silver Spoon insisted.

When Apple Bloom huddled up with her friends she asked them, “What’s up?”

“How are we supposed to help Silver Spoon out in finding her talent?” Sweetie Belle asked softly without Silver Spoon hearing. “I don’t even know what her cutie mark even means.”

“Me neither.” Scootaloo said. “I hope you have a plan.”

“Relax, ah don’t even know what it means either.” Apple Bloom admitted.

“So how are we supposed to help her?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Don’t worry, crusaders. Ah have a plan.” Apple Bloom said with confidence as she walks back over to Silver Spoon. “Tell us, Silver Spoon. How did you get your cutie mark in the first place?”

“Well…” Silver Spoon started. “It was Take Your Filly to Work Day, I was at my mom’s china shop. It was actually the day Diamond Tiara and I met.” A flashback begins with Silver Spoon at the china shop run by her mom, Gray Shades. Silver Spoon was just polishing a vase when Diamond Tiara and her mom Spoiled Rich walks inside.

“Good morning, Mrs. Gray Shades!” Spoiled Rich said to Silver Spoon’s mom.

“Ah, Mrs. Spoiled- err, I mean, Mrs. Rich! Good to see you again!” Gray Shades said.

“Ah, relax, darling! We’re business partners now!” Spoiled Rich said. “You can call me what you like.”

“Mrs. Rich, I must say this is… a very… very fine investment you are making towards my business! It’s going to make us both very rich!” Gray Shades said excitedly.

“Richer, darling. We’re already rich.” Spoiled teased. They both chuckled.

“I think this is a job for a toast! I’ll get us some of my best cider!” Gray Shades offered.

“Take your time! I have all the time in the world when it comes to this opportunity!” Spoiled said happily.

“It’ll take me but a moment.” Gray Shades said as she starts walking to her back room to get the cider. “Silver Spoon, honey? Will you watch over the shop for me, please?”

“Yes, mother!” Silver Spoon accepted gratefully.

“Ugh!” Spoiled groaned after Gray Shades walks into her back room. “What a typical Ponyville pony. She’s just too friendly, it disgusts me!”

“So… why were you being so friendly to her?” a very young Diamond Tiara asked her.

“It’s a little thing called ‘business’, Diamond Tiara.” Spoiled informed her. “You must do what you have to do to earn as much money as you can, and being friendly to these… imbeciles.” Diamond Tiara looks over at Silver Spoon who was happily polishing a case of silverware. When Silver Spoon looks over at her, Diamond Tiara hides shyly. “Diamond Tiara? How about you make mommy proud and make yourself friends with that girl over there?” Spoiled instructed her.

“But… I… umm…” Diamond stuttered.

“Now, Diamond Tiara!” Spoiled demanded. Diamond hesitates as she walks over to Silver Spoon. Diamond looks back at her mom very nervously, and Spoiled just gives her a grouchy look.

Diamond slowly walks over to Silver Spoon and says very nervously, “Umm… hi.”

“Hi! I’m Silver Spoon!” Silver Spoon greeted her excitedly. “What’s your name?”

“I’m… umm… Diamond Tiara.” She said.

“Nice to meet you, Diamond Tiara!” Silver Spoon said. “So, your mom is buying a stake at my mom’s shop! I must say, that is a very fine investment she picked!”

“Really?” Diamond Tiara asked.

“Yep! My mom’s the best merchant in Ponyville!” Silver Spoon said. Diamond Tiara then suddenly looks away from her thinking on what to say next, and then she looks over and takes a look at the silverware case next to her. “Ah! I see you have a fine eye for silverware! Yes, this here is actually ancient Griffonstone silverware from the second era. It was dropped around the streets of Canterlot from some mysterious griffon in a cloak. My mom found it one day and she says it’s her best discovery since she found the Alicorn Grail!”

“Wow, looks really fancy!” Diamond said.

“You don’t know the half of it!” Silver Spoon said. “We’re having a sail on them! Only 9,800 bits! I know it seems a little much for silverware, but these are really ancient. 100% real silver!”

“My, my, you do have a way of words, little one! Just like your mother!”” Spoiled Rich said as she takes a look at the silverware case. “I’ll take them!”

“Really?” Silver Spoon asked excitedly.

“Of course! Perhaps you can come over for dinner some time and we can all use them!” Spoiled suggested. “Right, Diamond Tiara?”

“Umm… yes. It would be an honor if you came!” Diamond Tiara agreed.

“Really? I would love to!” Silver Spoon said excitedly. “I can’t wait to tell my mom after this totally awesome sale I just made!” And that’s when a glow shined behind Silver Spoon. The flashback ends there.

“Who knew being friends with Diamond Tiara would give me my cutie mark?” Silver Spoon asked the CMCs.

“Well ah gotta say it is very impressive how you earned your cutie mark.” Apple Bloom said.

“Maybe that’s your special talent then!” Sweetie Belle said.

“What?” Silver Spoon asked. “Being friends with Diamond Tiara?”

“No! Being a china shop owner!” Sweetie Belle said. “Your mom does an awesome job at keeping it running. It’s probably the best china shop in all of Equestria. If you were next in running it, I bet you’d do just as well as her, if not better!”

“Hmm.” Silver Spoon thought. “Never thought of it that way. That’s actually a really good idea! Everypony does say I have a clever way of words.”

“Yeah and you used to use those clever words for the wrong reasons when you and Diamond Tiara used to bully us.” Scootaloo teased.

Silver Spoon giggled. “That is true! I guess that probably is my destiny then. I’ll be running my mother’s shop sometime in the future! Thanks Cutie Mark Crusaders!” She gives them a hug.

“No problem, Silver Spoon!” Sweetie Belle said as they hugged back.

“We’re only doing what we’re destined to do.” Scootaloo said as the crusaders all hoof bumped eachother.

“And the whole school knows it too!” Silver Spoon said.

Just then, there was another knock on the door. “Come in!” Sweetie Belle called out. Just then, Diamond Tiara opens the door and peeks her head in. “Wow! Diamond Tiara knocked! Now that’s an improvement!”

“Yeah, hey, crusaders.” Diamond Tiara said as she walked in.

“What can we do for you?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Actually I was just looking for Silver Spoon.” Diamond Tiara said. “What are you doing here anyway?” She asked her.

“Well… I had no idea what my destiny was, so I came over to ask them.” Silver Spoon said.

“Cool!” Diamond Tiara said. “I’m thinking they did a pretty good job, huh?”

“It’s what we’re destined to do!” Scootaloo said as the crusaders all hoof bumped again.

“Yeah, yeah, you don’t need to brag about it.” Diamond Tiara complained. “The whole school knows. I mean it doesn’t make you special.”

“Whoa! Where did that come?” Sweetie Belle commented on Diamond Tiara’s attitude.

“I mean look at you, everypony always goes to you for advice.” Diamond Tiara explained. “Me, I’m just another pretty face. Gorgeous to look at, but not so much as an inspiration as you. I wanna be an inspiration too, I dunno what makes you three so special!”

“Well… it wasn’t up to us.” Apple Bloom said. “It was destiny that decided. That’s what we thought we were good at, so… yeah. There they are!”

“Wish I could start all over again.” Diamond Tiara said upsettingly. “I don’t like my destiny that much. I want a cutie mark like you.”

“But your destiny is just fine.” Apple Bloom said.

“Yeah. You can still be an inspiration.” Scootaloo said as she walked over to her and patted her shoulder. “I mean, like we said, your destiny is to be a leader, and it’s your job to make sure everypony gets on the right path. If there are ever any ponies that need us, you can always ask them to come to us for advice.”

Diamond Tiara sighs and then smiles. “You three are really good ponies, you know that? Maybe I can be an inspiration. What if… what if Silver Spoon and I go out to town and spread the word? The more ponies you help, the more inspiration we make!”

“Yeah, exactly!” Silver Spoon agreed.

“Well… we haven’t had a chance to go out to town to see if anypony needs any help.” Apple Bloom said.

“It would make your job so much easier if you got things planned out here, and let us handle retrieving.” Diamond Tiara offered as she places her arm around Silver Spoon. “We’ll help sponsor your club; and I know coming from my family you wouldn’t expect to hear this, but… no extra charge required.”

“What do you say, crusaders?” Apple Bloom asked her friends. “Should Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon be our advertisers?” Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo both agreed, and then Apple Bloom turns back to Diamond Tiara and says, “Ok, Diamond Tiara! You got yourself a deal!” They both shake hooves.

“We have a deal then!” Diamond Tiara said. “First thing tomorrow: the ponies are going to be lining up!” Diamond Tiara turns around and started walking to the door.

“Wait a minute.” Scootaloo stopped her. “You’re not going to spread any lies or rumors about us, are you?”

“Oh pfffft! Have I ever lied to you?” Diamond Tiara asked. The CMCs all glared at her.

“Oh don’t give us those looks. We never lied to you.” Silver Spoon informed them. “We may have bullied you, but we never technically lied to you. I mean you were blank flanks once after-“

“LET’S… just go now, Silver Spoon.” Diamond Tiara cuts her off as she chuckles embarrassingly after she said that, and then they both left.

“I’m really glad Diamond Tiara really wants to be helpful now.” Sweetie Belle said.

“But does she really know what she’s doing?” Scootaloo asked.

“Hey, we could use the extra help.” Apple Bloom said. “It’s like she said – the more ponies we help, the more of an inspiration we will be!”

“Well… I do like being an inspiration.” Sweetie Belle smiled.

“You’re right, Apple Bloom.” Scootaloo agreed. “If we’re to take the Cutie Mark Crusaders to the next level, we should take any challenge that anypony throws at us, because the Cutie Mark Crusaders are doing what they’re destined to do!”

“YEAH!” they all yelled as they hoof bumped eachother a third time.

“You know, I wish I had a bit every time we did this.” Sweetie Belle said.

The next day came, and Apple Bloom got up bright and early. She quickly jumps out of bed, out of her room, and slides down the stairs and was about to pass the kitchen as Granny Smith was making breakfast, and AppleJack and Big Mac were sitting at the table. But before Apple Bloom could leave, AppleJack stopped her. “Whoa there, Apple Bloom! You seem to be in a rush today. What’s the occasion?” AppleJack asked.

“Sorry ah can’t stay for long, AppleJack, but the crusaders are about to be pretty busy today!” Apple Bloom said. “Diamond Tiara is helping us out in gettin’ ponies to come to us for advice.”

“Well ain’t that sweet?” AppleJack asked as she walked to her and gave Apple Bloom a hug. “Apple Bloom’s just like her sister. Helpin’ out others. Ah’m so proud of you!”

“Thanks!” Apple Bloom said as AppleJack was still hugging her pretty tight. “Uh, AppleJack? AppleJack? Umm… AppleJack?”

“Hang on there, sugarcube. Nearly done.” AppleJack said as she continued to hug. Apple Bloom just stood there with an annoyed expression on her face, but saying nothing. After a few more seconds, AppleJack let’s go of her. “Done! Now go on and make me proud.”

“Ah will! Don’t worry!” Apple Bloom said as she runs out.

“Wait, Apple Bloom!” AppleJack called out.

“Umm, ah’m still right here. Ah didn’t go far.” Apple Bloom said from 2 centimeters to the door.

“Are you sure y’all can do this?” AppleJack asked. “Ah mean, if this winds up bein’ too much for you…”

“AppleJack, relax. Ah got this. It’s mah destiny, remember?” Apple Bloom reminded her.

“Ah know, but… just because it’s your destiny doesn’t always mean you’ll be 100% professional at it right away.” AppleJack informed her. “Especially after the fact that you just got it recently.”

“AppleJack, ah did this many times already. Ah’m fine.” Apple Bloom informed her in an annoyed tone.

“Ah know you are, Apple Bloom.” AppleJack smiled. “Just… come to me if you need any help at all.”

“Ah will, don’t worry!” Apple Bloom promised as she runs off. “See ya!” AppleJack smiles and waves at her when she runs off, and eventually Big Mac and Granny Smith joined along too. While Apple Bloom was excitedly running to her treehouse to start crusading, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo joined along with her running.

“Today’s going to be an awesome day, crusaders! We’re going to help ponies find their destinies!” Scootaloo said excitedly.

“That’s right! We should really plan out our day before ponies start coming in!” Sweetie Belle suggested. “Hey, Apple Bloom? Did AppleJack ask if this would be too much for you?”

“Has she ever?” Apple Bloom asked. “She didn’t think we could handle it!”

“Rarity did too!” Sweetie Belle said.

“But it doesn’t matter! We’re pros now! We can help anypony that comes on our doorstep!” Scootaloo said as the three of them finally arrived at the clubhouse to see that there were already a couple of ponies waiting.

“Wow, what took you all so long? We were waiting for hours!” Snips complained.

“Yeah, don’t you have a schedule or something?” Snails complained.

“Snips? Snails?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Uh, duh!” Snails said in an obvious tone.

“Who were you expecting?” Snips asked. “We’ve been waiting here for hours and we need help, like right away!”

“Ok then. The Cutie Mark Crusaders are at your service!” Sweetie Belle said as she bowed her head at them. “What do you two need help with?”

“Well if you must know, my cutie mark is a pair of scissors.” Snips said.

“Yeah and mine’s and a snail.” Snails said.

The CMCs all looked at eachother awkwardly. “You don’t say?” Scootaloo asked sarcastically. “So what’s the problem then?”

“So what does it mean?!” they both yelled.

“Alright! Calm down, you two!” Scootaloo instructed them. “Let us go back into our club house and discuss it, and we’ll get back to you.”

“Diamond Tiara said you could help us now.” Snips said.

“Well Diamond Tiara doesn’t know what she’s saying half the time.” Scootaloo informed him.

“Alright, everypony, we can work this out.” Sweetie Belle broke up the argument. “Snips, Snails. How about you think about how you got your cutie mark, and maybe you’ll have your answer then.”

“So… are you saying we should tell you how we got our cutie marks and we’ll have our answer?” Snails asked.

“Well you basically just asked me what I just told you, but you might.” Sweetie Belle said.

“Well… it all started a few years ago.” Snips started as another flashback started. “Snails and I were at Camp Friendship. It was Arts and Crafts Day and we were making sculptures out of toothpicks.”

“Umm… actually I think it was popsicle sticks.” Snails corrected him as the toothpicks in the flashback magically turned into popsicle sticks.

“No it was toothpicks!” Snips corrected him as the sticks changed form again.

“Popsicle sticks!” Snails argued with him.

“Toothpicks!” Snips argued with him as the flashback ends with them arguing.

“Popsicle sticks!”

“Toothpicks!”

“Popsicle sticks!”

“ENOUGH!” Scootaloo yelled as they stopped arguing. “It doesn’t matter which sticks you used! Just get on with the story!”

“Fine… popsicle-tooth sticks.” Snips said.

“I can live with that.” Snails agreed.

“Good. Now please… continue.” Scootaloo listened.

“So yeah, at Friendship Camp, we were making stick art.” Snips continued as the flashback started again. “It was a contest to see which teams could make the best stick art. Now obviously, Snails and I were one team. Everypony thought it was a race to the finish so everypony was going really fast.”

“Uh, Snails?” flashback Snips asked. “Shouldn’t we be going a little bit faster?”

“Uhh… what? I wasn’t paying attention to the rules.” Snails said as he squirts a ton of glue all over the sticks.

“Now look what you’ve done and did!” Snips complained. “The sticks are all sticky!”

“Well aren’t we supposed to put them all together? Duh!” Snails reminded him.

“No, we’re supposed to put in a little glue on the ends, see?” Snips showed him as he squirts a little bit of glue on one of the stick ends on one of the sticks that weren’t caught in the glue impact.

“1 more minute, everypony!” the councilor said.

“We have to hurry it up, Snails! So far we’ve got nothing!” Snips freaked out.

“Eyyyy, Snips! What’s the rush, eh?” Snails asked. “You can’t rush… uhh… uhh… you can’t rush goodness.”

“Right, right.” Snips understood as he and Snails both started to work on the sticks to make a little art. Snails squirts a little too much on one of the sticks so Snips stops him. “Not too much, Snails. Just a little bit.”

Just then, the councilor rings the bell around her neck and says, “Time’s up, scouts! Let’s see what you got!” So the councilor goes around the room to check on everypony’s art. Most of them used a lot of sticks and there was a lot of glue. They made chairs, some sculptures, a dog, and there was even the largest ball of sticks in miniature form. “Ooo not bad, everypony! Not bad!”

“Oooooh jeez!” Snips said worryingly as he looked at his art. “Our art’s a complete disaster!”

“Yeah, we barely had time to make anything.” Snails said upsettingly.

“Hey, it may not have been perfect, but it’s still something we made.” Snips smiled at him.

“Together!” Snails said.

The councilor walks over and checks Snips’ and Snails’ stick art. “Snips? Snails? What is this?” she asked curiously.

“Oh it’s just a flower.” Snails said upsettingly.

“Yeah, this was pretty much a last minute thing.” Snips said. “It’s not much, but I hope you like it.”

“Like it? Why, this is the most interesting stick art I’ve ever seen!” the councilor said excitedly.

“Huh?!” Snips and Snails both asked curiously.

“The quality… the amount of glue… the positioning! It’s so… perfect!” the councilor said. “Something so basic can truly be an inspiration!”

“Well… if it weren’t for Snails, I wouldn’ve taken my time.” Snips said.

“Yeah, and if it weren’t for Snips, I would’ve just made a mess of some things.” Snails said as the two smile at eachother, and that’s when their flanks began to glow. The entire camp ‘whoa’ed in amazement. The flashback ends there.

“And that’s what happened.” Snails said. “Slow and steady always win in the end, no matter how times we hear it.”

“Yep, and I do like to keep an eye out for quality.” Snips said.

“So that’s it then!” Scootaloo said. “You just answered your own question! You know what your destinies are!”

“But we don’t know what career that could bring us towards that path!” Snips informed them.

“Yeah, what does being slow have to do with anything?” Snails asked.

“That’s completely up to you!” Scootaloo said. “We cannot choose your careers. Only you can know what you’re good at.”

“Well… if in all honesty, I do sometimes help my dad out in making his puppets.” Snips said. “Perhaps I could be a puppet maker!”

“Yeah, and seeing as my destiny is being slow, I could be a customer service agent!” Snails thought.

“YEAH!” Snips and Snails both yelled out in excitement.

“So you see? You know your destiny after all!” Scootaloo said.

“Yeah, I guess we do!” Snails agreed. “Thank you, Cutie Mark Crusaders!”

“It’s no trouble at all!” Scootaloo said in a self-appreciated way.

“Put’a there, Snails!” Snips said as he places his hoof in the air wanting Snails to bump it, but with his eyes closed, Snails ends up punching Snips in the nose instead. “OW!”

“Another satisfied client!” Scootaloo said as the crusaders started walking up to their treehouse.

“That was amazing, Scootaloo!” Sweetie Belle said excitedly. “We really made some ponies happy today!”

“Ah supposed we can take this moment to think about our next client.” Apple Bloom said as the three of them all walked inside the treehouse and Apple Bloom shuts the door behind them, but right after that happens, sompony else has suddenly knocked on the door.

“Ah, who can that be?” Sweetie Belle asked as she opened the door.

“Um… hi, crusaders!” Featherweight said shyly.

“Hey, Featherweight! What can we do for you?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Well, umm… you see… I… I’m a tad bit confused right now.” Featherweight said.

“What are you so confused for?” Scootaloo asked.

“Well, I… I’m a journalist, see? I run the Foal Free Press has head editor, but… somehow I ended up with a feather cutie mark.” Featherweight explained.

“So?” Apple Bloom asked.

“So I sound more like a wrestlers, or a bodybuilder like my brother.” Featherweight said. “What does a feather have anything to do about me being a journalist?”

The CMCs all looked at eachother in confusion, but then Sweetie Belle smiles. “I think I have something!” After a while goes by, Featherweight leaves the clubhouse feeling inspired.

“Wow! I have never thought of it like that before!” Featherweight said surprisingly. “I can now see the resemblance!”

“We do what we can to inspire!” Sweetie Belle said.

“Thank you, Cutie Mark Crusaders! You truly are an inspiration!” Featherweight said as he walks away. Sweetie Belle smiles and squees as his comment and then shuts the door.

“We’re doing it, crusaders! We’re doing it!” Sweetie Belle said excitedly.

“Yeah, we...” Apple Bloom suddenly yawns. “We really are.”

“You ok, Apple Bloom?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Yeah, just… just a wee bit tired, nothin’ really.” Apple Bloom said.

“Uh… you barely talked to anypony, I hope you realized that.” Scootaloo reminded her.

“But I agree. We should take a little break.” Sweetie Belle said.

“Yeah, it’s fun being an inspiration to these ponies, but it can take a lot outta ya!” Scootaloo said. Just then, there was another knock on the door. “Come in!” she called out. “You know, just so all three of us had a chance to say it.”

“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!” Pipsqueak yelled worryingly as he kicks the door open.

“Whoa, Pipsqueak! What’s the matter, buddy?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Well… everypony in school keeps going to you for advice, so… I thought maybe I could ask for a little bit from you on how I could get my cutie mark in the first place.” Pipsqueak said.

“Oh, but… umm… Pipsqueak, you just… you just caught us on our way out to break.” Apple Bloom confessed. “Sorry.”

“Oh…” Pipsqueak said upsettingly. “It’s ok. I mean, I thought you’d be a… you know… inspiration to me.”

“Wait just one second!” Scootaloo stopped him. “We too can be an inspiration! Just watch us! We can give you the best advice on how you could get your cutie mark!”

“Oh good. I’m not asking to get it today though.” Pipsqueak admitted. “I just want to get onto the right track so I can have a clue on what I want to do.”

“But we’re the Cutie Mark Crusaders! We’ll do anything to help other ponies in earning their cutie marks! Isn’t that right, girls?” Scootaloo asked her friends. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle both chuckled and agreed worryingly.

After a while, Pipsqueak happily trots out of the clubhouse saying, “Wow, crusaders! You have president yet again! You never seize to amaze!” Just then, Apple Bloom topples over at the door, and then Scootaloo topples over her, and Sweetie Belle topples over her. “I must say, Diamond Tiara was right! You three really are an inspiration!”

“We… we do whatever we can, Pip.” Apple Bloom said tiredly.

“See you in class… with a cutie mark!” Pipsqueak said excitedly as he runs out.

“But we already have our cutie marks!” Scootaloo whined.

“He means him, Scoots.” Sweetie Belle informed her.

“Ugh!” Apple Bloom moaned. “Ah dunno about you girls, but ah am beat. You girls beat?”

“No, we’re lying on top of you to hold you down so we can arrest you.” Scootaloo said sarcastically.

“Heeeey!” Diamond Tiara said excitedly as she and Silver Spoon walk over to the lying down crusaders. “What is this? Lying down on the job? We have more ponies coming! Rumble is next by the looks of it.”

“Umm… Diamond Tiara?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Yes my star pupils?” Diamond Tiara asked.

“We, umm… we umm…” Sweetie Belle froze.

“We’re tired, ok?” Scootaloo finished. “We need to take a break.”

“A break? But I’m so close to finding the motherlode!” Diamond Tiara said.

“You three impress a lot of ponies! It shouldn’t stop yet.” Silver Spoon said.

“Ah know, but… we’ve been helpin’ ponies all mornin’, and we need a little time to cool off.” Apple Bloom said.

Silver Spoon takes out a desk fan, places it in front of the crusaders, and then turns it on high. “There, you’re cool now. Now, chop, chop! We got our next customer almost here!”

“You don’t want to lose his inspiration, do you?” Diamond Tiara asked.

“Well…” the crusaders all looked eachother and then they sadly said, “No.”

“Exactly!” Diamond Tiara said. “It’s your destiny to help these ponies out! I helped you see that, remember? I helped you get these cutie marks! You’re an inspiration to these ponies as I am an inspiration to you!”

The crusaders all looked at eachother confusingly, and then they glare at Diamond Tiara and Apple Bloom asks, “Say what now?” As she lifts up one of her eyebrows.

“We’re trying to help you out with your destinies. That’s all!” Silver Spoon said.

“What are friends for anyway?” Diamond Tiara asked. “Now then, Cutie Mark Crusaders… go on, put your game faces on, and help bring inspiration to these ponies! Yay!”

“Yaaaaaay…” the crusaders all said as they faked their excitement.

Now for the third chapter in a row, we have another musical number starring the CMCs as they helped their fellow classmates out in understanding their cutie marks, or figuring out how to get them.

Rumble comes inside the clubhouse to ask how to get his cutie mark, and that he tried everything. That’s when Scootaloo starts off the song in a Another Brick In the Wall kind of way, “When we were younger, we were just like you. No idea how our destiny comes right through. But just as we performed something so unexpecting. We have done our own detecting! Because we know what we need to do. Because we know we’ll make ponies come through. Because we know… that is what we’re meant to be. It’s because… we know… it is our destiny!”

Then all three crusaders sang in a I Wouldn’t Wanna Be Like You kind of way, “It’s because… we know… it is our destiny!”

“Wow! Thank you, crusaders! I know exactly what I need to do now!” Rumble said excitedly.

“We’re just doing what we are meant to do, bro. We just do what we are meant to do.” Scootaloo said.

Afterwards, Berry Pinch comes in asking how she can earn her, that’s when Sweetie Belle sings her part as she gives Berry her advice. “Don’t give up yet just keep on going.” Sweetie Belle places her hoof on her chin and thinks about what Berry Pinch should do. “No matter how hard you try don’t say you’re not good at nothing.” That’s when Sweetie Belle hatches her idea and starts drawing a picture on her sketchpad. “Don’t give in now, and don’t give up now. You’ll get a lot accomplished just by the sweat of your brow!” Sweetie Belle moves away from her sketch and shows it to Berry Pinch. The crusaders all smile and nod, and Berry Pinch jumps up in excitement. Afterwards, Button Mash comes in not asking a thing. All he’s doing is playing on his little portable gaming system as the crusaders all waited for him to say something. “Because we know it’ll make you fly-y. Because we know it won’t make you cry-y. Because it’s not up to us to find your key-y. It is up to you to find out your destiny!” That was when Sweetie Belle patted him on the shoulder and pointed to his game system. Button Mash smiles in excitement and then cheerfully gives Sweetie Belle a big hug, squeezing her tight. “It is… up to you… to find your destiny!”

Button wouldn’t let go, so the crusaders all helped her in trying to persuade Button to let her go as they all sang, “It is… up to you… to find your-!” Nope, he still refused. Truffle Shuffle came in next wondering what his cutie mark means as the crusaders sang, “No matter who you are, no matter what you do. We know for a fact that you’ll find your destiny too-oo!” as Apple Bloom gives Truffle a cook book. Truffle smiled excitedly as he takes the book and then shoves it in his mouth like a sandwich. Dinky Doo comes in next finding out how she could earn her cutie mark. “No matter how hard you try, no matter how many times you fail. You know soon you will be prevaillllllll!” But as luck would have it, Dinky gets it there on the spot, which is a pillow. She excitedly jumps out of the clubhouse and lands on Derpy’s arms and they give eachother a big hug and Derpy spins her around. The CMCs all hoof bump eachother right after, without even saying ‘we’re destined to do’ before that.

“It is so impressive of all you can do now.” Apple Bloom sang as Cotton Cloudy visits as she flies in the sky above the clubhouse showing the crusaders what she can do with the clouds. “You make the rules, don’t let anypony disallow.” Afterwards, Tornado Bolt visits and shows the crusaders all the interesting oral gammy tricks she can do just by crumbling a piece of paper in her mouth like a bird, a flower, a 3-D cube, and even three stick people holding hands. The crusaders had no idea what that last one was, but it was still impressive. “You can be whatever you want to be. But don’t take my word for it, it’s your destiny!”

The crusaders then all sing in pitch blackness with a spotlight over them. “But don’t take… our word for it… because it’s your destiny! Whoa-oh-oooooh! But don’t take… our word for it… because it’s, it’s… it’s it’s… it’s it’s it’s it’s it’s it’s it’s… it’s your destinyyyyyy-yyyy-yyyy-yyy-yyyyyyyy.” The song ends there with all three of them collapsing on the ground in exhaustion.

Later that night, Apple Bloom opens the door to Sweet Apple Acres and collapses face first onto the floor. AppleJack was sitting down on the sofa sleeping until she got back. Right after Apple Bloom collapses on the floor, AppleJack wakes up feeling drowsy still. “Huh, wh-what? Ah…. Apple Bloom?” She then angrily asks, “Where in apple’s name have you been? You had me worried sick!”

“Hmmph hmmm hmmm mmm.” Apple Bloom mumbled.

“What was that?” AppleJack asked.

“Hmmph hmmm hmmm mmm.” She mumbled again.

“Look at me when you’re talkin’, Apple Bloom.” AppleJack instructed her.

Apple Bloom lifted her head and said, “Ah said ah’m sorry, AppleJack! Ah wish ah could explain it all but ah’m so tired ah can’t even lift my head and speak! Ah try, and ah try, but ah just can’t lift mah head and speak! So there, ah said it!” She then flops her head back on the floor.

AppleJack looks at her with a concerned look. “Umm… Apple Bloom?” she asked. “Does this have somethin’ to do with helpin’ your classmates find out what their cutie marks mean?”

“Mhm.” Apple Bloom said.

“Well come up here and talk to me, sugarcube. Lemme help you get through this.” AppleJack offered.

“YES!” Apple Bloom shouted as she jumped onto the couch and leans her hooves on AppleJack. “You gotta help me, AppleJack! Ah can’t take it anymore! All day long all we’ve been doin’ today was just givin’ obvious advice to every kid in town! It is so exhaustin’!” Apple Bloom falls back on the sofa and lies down in exhaustion. “Ah don’t want to be an inspiration anymore!”

“Well then you can simply just stop.” AppleJack suggested.

“Ah can’t, sis!” Apple Bloom whined. “This is mah destiny! Ah asked for a cutie mark, and now ah have it, and now that ah have it, it’s so much hard work! Things were much simpler just me and mah friends findin’ out what our talents are. It’s so stressful tellin’ everypony else theirs!”

AppleJack sighs. “Apple Bloom, perhaps they don’t understand what a cutie mark means. A cutie mark marks your destiny, and for them to find their destinies, they have to find out for themselves. They can’t ask you what their destiny is.”

“Then what does mah destiny mean, AppleJack?” Apple Bloom asked. “What does mah cutie mark mean?”

AppleJack smiles at her. “You know what your cutie mark means, and that’s all that matters.”

“But ah don’t!” Apple Bloom whined.

“Yes you do. You just need to remember what it is.” AppleJack said.

“But ah need help!” Apple Bloom whined.

“You have your friends, Apple Bloom.” AppleJack said as she pats her on the back. “The three of you will figure it out together. Ah know you can do it! Ah believe in you. Just believe in yourself.”

Apple Bloom sighs and then she smiles. “Well… every student in mah school already came to us today, so ah don’t think there’s anypony else left to help.”

“Except for yourselves.” AppleJack said. Apple Bloom smiled at her, and she knew exactly what she meant. AppleJack and Apple Bloom both then went to bed and prepared for a new day.

When the next day came, the crusaders met up at their clubhouse and relaxed. “Well crusaders,” Sweetie Belle started, “yesterday was surely a long day, but we survived through it. Every foal in town came to us for advice, and we gave them exactly what they wanted to hear.”

“Thank goodness that’s all over!” Scootaloo said. “Now we can spend all day today just relaxing and doing what we want to do!”

“That’s right! Even the Cutie Mark Crusaders deserves a break.” Apple Bloom said.

“Mhm!” Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo both agreed. Just then, there was a knock on the door.

“Go away! We’re closed today!” Scootaloo shouted.

The door opens and Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon both walk inside. “It’s us.” Diamond Tiara said.

“Oh.” Scootaloo said as she lies down.

“What do you want, Diamond Tiara?” Sweetie Belle asked as she rubbed her eyes.

“We just came to congratulate you three on a job well done yesterday!” Diamond Tiara said.

“Yeah! We all really inspired a lot of ponies yesterday!” Silver Spoon said.

“Uhh, we?” Scootaloo asked sarcastically.

“Yes!” Diamond Tiara said. “We went around from town to town looking for ponies that need advice on how to get their cutie marks or what their cutie marks mean, and you inspired them with the advice. In addition, we all inspired them!”

“No matter how inspiration we are though, there is a limit on how many ponies we could help at a time.” Apple Bloom said.

“Wait… did you just say ‘from town to town’?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Oh yes! Why else didn’t we check up on you often yesterday?” Diamond Tiara asked.

“Uhh, HELLOOOO?!” Silver Spoon asked in an obvious tone.

“Diamond Tiara? What have you done?” Apple Bloom asked worringly.

“Umm, and Silver Spoon too!” Silver Spoon reminded them. “I helped!”

“And we didn’t do anything!” Diamond Tiara said in a relaxing tone. “We just spread the word of your organization and what you do for no extra charge!”

“WHAT?!” the crusaders all yelled.

“Ugh!” Diamond Tiara groaned. “Do I have to spell it out for you? Just take a look for yourselves!” The crusaders all got up and walked outside, and then they both gasped in shock to see the amount of school-aged ponies that were outside. There were like… 100 of them out there. “I know! Didn’t aren’t we, like… so helpful, or what?” Diamond Tiara asked excitedly.

“Diamond Tiara… Silver Spoon… you’ve gone too far this time!” Apple Bloom said angrily.

“What? We were just doing our jobs and all that!” Diamond Tiara complained. “We offered to go around asking ponies if they were having trouble on what their cutie marks mean, they go to the Cutie Mark Crusaders for advice, and you accepted it!”

“Ah know we did, but… but… we have a limit on how many ponies we can help at a time, and we’ve reached it!” Apple Bloom explained angrily.

“We’re tired! We need to rest!” Scootaloo complained.

Diamond Tiara angrily leaned up to the crusaders and explained, “Listen… I’ve done my part for our community! We’re trying to help you three fulfill your destinies! We’re trying to help you become an inspiration, and this is the thanks you’re giving us?! Not to mention the thanks to all these ponies from Canterlot, Cloudsdale, Rainbow Falls, and pretty much everywhere else in Equestria?”

“It doesn’t seem like you want to be an inspiration for your community, do you?” Silver Spoon asked.

The crusaders all looked at eachother worringly, and then Apple Bloom asked, “Can y’all excuse us for a minute?” As the crusaders all faked a smile.

“Hey take your time.” Diamond Tiara said. “You do need to strategize on how to help these ponies, right?”

“Right… right.” Apple Bloom said as the three of them ran like the Flash back inside and the clubhouse and closed the door behind them. Apple Bloom leaned back on the door making sure it was closed.

“What are we going to do?!” Sweetie Belle yelled.

“I did NOT sign for this!” Scootaloo said.

“Now don’t panic, crusaders!” Apple Bloom instructed them.

“This is the PERFECT time to panic, Apple Bloom!” Scootaloo yelled. “We have pretty much every kid in Equestria on our doorstep and wanting cutie mark advice! I dunno about you, but Sweetie Belle and I are done! We’re quitting!”

“But you can’t quit!” Apple Bloom said. “It’s our destiny!”

“Forget our destiny!” Scootaloo yelled. “Things were so much easier before we got our cutie marks!”

“So you’re sayin’ you want to get rid of your cutie marks?” Apple Bloom asked.

“I didn’t say that.” Sweetie Belle said. “But I kinda agree with, Scootaloo. This is just way too hard for us.”

“SWEETIE BELLE?!” Apple Bloom yelled.

“I’m sorry! But what else am I supposed to say?!” Sweetie Belle yelled. “I thought we were just going to help a few ponies out. Not all of Equestria! There’s only three of us and… 1, 2, 3, 4- HUNDREDS OF THEM!”

“Admit it, Apple Bloom. You don’t want to do this anymore either. Do you?” Scootaloo asked.

“Ah do!” Apple Bloom yelled. “But… but…” she sighs, “but you’re right. This is way too hard! AppleJack was right. This is too much for us!”

“What are we going to do?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“The way I see it, we have two possibilities.” Scootaloo said. “Number one: we go out and face the crowd and tell them the truth.”

“Uh huh, and what’s number two?” Sweetie Belle asked.

Meanwhile, back outside, the crowd started to get antsy. They were demanding the help of the crusaders, and it was up for Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon to calm them down. Just as a cup gets thrown at them, but misses, Silver Spoon asks, “The crowd is really getting antsy, Diamond Tiara! What are we going to do?”

“Ponies! Ponies!” Diamond Tiara called out. “Just please be patient! The Cutie Mark Crusaders will be out momentarily to... umm… share with you their knowledge!”

“WE WANT THEM NOW!” a pony from the crowd demands.

“Great knowledge comes great patience!” Diamond Tiara called out, and then she turns to Silver Spoon and asks her, “…right?” Silver Spoon shrugs.

“I’m going into their clubhouse to check up on them!” Diamond Tiara said as she marches over to the door and slams it open and smiles. “Ok, crusaders. I hope you have what you’re looking for because-“ She then gasps to see a rope tied on a chair leading out the window. She runs over to the window and saw the crusaders climbing down. “Where do you think you’re going?!” she yelled. The crusaders didn’t say anything. Instead, they started to run. “HEY! Come back here!” Diamond Tiara growls as she runs back to Silver Spoon and the crowd and yelled, “THE CRUSADERS ARE ESCAPING!”

“GET THEM!” somepony from the crowd yelled. The crusaders heard that yell and they began to run faster. The entire crowd started to chase the crusaders around town.

The CMCs were getting chased all around town and they needed to lose them. So the CMCs all run over behind a tree, and the crowd runs passed the tree. The CMCs all peeked out one at a time to see if the coast was clear, but just then, a fourth head popped out behind the tree and the CMCs started running again.

The CMCs then run inside the Sweet Apple Acres barn, shut the door and start to barricade it. They all passed different pieces of furniture up one at a time towards the door, with Apple Bloom barricading them at the door, followed by Sweetie Belle behind her, followed by Scootaloo, followed by some foal from Canterlot, followed by some foal from Manehattan, followed by- hey! Wait a minute! So the CMCs quickly ran right through the wall on the barn leaving a hole on the side and began running again.

As they ran they ran right into the crowd again, and they suddenly stopped running as their hooves screeched on the ground like breaks. Once the crowd spots them, the CMCs begin running in reverse. They continued running in reverse while the crowd chases them forward. Once they change the direction they’re running, they begin to get chased around a building. After they get chased around the building a number amount of times, Scootaloo stops by the door as Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle continued to get chased by the crowd, and then Scootaloo sticks her hoof out in an attempt to trip the crowd, but not knowing who went around last, she accidently trips over Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, which was where the chase ended.

“SCOOTALOO!” Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle yelled.

“Oh… um… woops?” Scootaloo said with an embarrassing smile and a squee.

“Alright, crusaders! Y’all better explain yourselves right now!” one of the ponies from Dodge Junction demanded.

“Yeah! We didn’t travel all the way from our home cities for nothin’ y’know!” a Manehattan pony yelled. All of the ponies began to rant and complain all at once, which made the CMCs pretty scared. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon catch up to the crowd and saw how the CMCs were feeling.

“I guess it all comes down to option one then.” Scootaloo said.

“Ah guess it does.” Apple Bloom said.

“Everypony-“ Sweetie Belle yelled, but she gets cut off.

“Everypony listen up!” Diamond Tiara yelled as the crowd directed their attention to her. “Ok I know you’re all here for inspiration, but I know for a fact you’re not going to get it if you’re going to just demand it from them!”

“But you told us they’d help us find out what our cutie marks mean!” one of the ponies yelled.

“Yeah, that they’re the key to our destinies!” another pony yelled.

“Well, I… I… umm…” Diamond Tiara froze. “Well I’m in a loss for words. Silver Spoon?”

“Wha- DON’T LOOK AT ME!” Silver Spoon yelled. “You got their attention! I mean, is it our faults that these ponies can’t find out their destinies for themselves?”

“Why bother finding out for ourselves when the Cutie Mark Crusaders can help us find them?” one of the ponies suggested.

“But that’s not what we do!” Sweetie Belle corrected them. “It is up to you to find out what your destinies are! We don’t know what you want. That’s something for you to figure out!”

“Then what’s your destiny, huh?” one of the ponies asked them. “What are your destinies?”

“Well, I… I… umm…” Sweetie Belle froze. “Well I’m in a loss for words. Scootaloo?”

“Wha- DON’T LOOK AT ME!” Scootaloo yelled.

“Ah know what our destinies are!” Apple Bloom said. “Yes. We are supposed to help other ponies find out what their destinies really mean, but y’all don’t have to ask us for it if you knew it all along. Just think about how you got your cutie marks in the first place, and then you’ll know what your destinies are.”

“But some of us don’t know! Some of us don’t know we got them, or why! What do these mean?!” one of the ponies yelled.

“Is that a pair of dice you have as a cutie mark?” the pony next to the first pony asked.

“Yeah! Snake eye dice.” The first pony said. “What do they mean? All I did was play a board game. What do board games have to do with it?”

“Well… what did you do in the board game when you got it?” the second pony asked.

“Well… all I did was point out to one of my friends what they were doing was against the rules. He said it was fine, but I read the instructions.” The first pony said. “Those are small letters you see.”

“So… maybe you’d make a good lawyer then! Maybe the snake eyes means you could read fine prints!” the second pony explained.

The first pony thought it out as he looked at his cutie mark, and then he excitedly said, “Hey, you’re right! I do pay close attention to details when I read stuff! But wait… I didn’t ask for your help. The crusaders were supposed to help me!”

“But don’t y’all see?” Apple Bloom asked. “You don’t need us to figure out what your destinies mean!”

“Just speak to your friends.” Scootaloo explained. “They might know what it means, and if they don’t… well… somepony has to. Maybe us… as a last resort.”

“But just because it’s our destiny to help ponies figure out other pony’s destinies, it doesn’t always mean we’d be successful in finding it, or that other ponies won’t fail at pointing it out.” Sweetie Belle explained.

“Wow, crusaders.” Diamond Tiara said impressively. “That is really impressive! You helped out all these ponies at once! What an inspiration!”

“It’s what our destinies are.” Scootaloo said as the crusaders all hoof-bumped.

“I guess I should’ve realized how tired you all were.” Diamond Tiara said.

“We’re sorry, crusaders. We just wanted to help you in any way we could.” Silver Spoon said.

“We know how much you inspire other ponies, we thought… well… maybe we too can inspire ponies.” Diamond Tiara said.

“But you can inspire ponies!” Sweetie Belle said. “Go ahead, and teach other ponies what we taught you about destinies and cutie marks!”

“But I’m not a public speaker. I don’t help out other ponies.” Diamond Tiara said sadly.

“Diamond Tiara,” Apple Bloom asked as she walked over to Diamond Tiara and held her hoof, “do you remember how you got your cutie mark?”

“Umm…” Diamond Tiara thought. “I got it during our group project at school. Miss Cheerliee assigned us in groups. She forced us to be partners. My leadership skills got us an easy A in the class, and then… I got my cutie mark. That was a couple of days before you met Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo at my Cute-ceañera.”

“And ah thought you were an inspiration that day!” Apple Bloom smiled. “Well… until you started pickin’ on me. But what ah’m sayin’ is, your leadership skills is what your destiny is, and you can be an inspiration by leading these here ponies into findin’ out their destinies!”

“Wow… you’re right, Apple Bloom!” Diamond Tiara said happily.

Apple Bloom stars to sing a reprise, “You have great potential, we know you’re tryin’. You can be an inspiration if you keep complyin’. Friends help eachother to find out what they’re good at. All you need to do is ask, or… simply just chat!”

“It’s because you know what you do best!” Sweetie Belle sang. “It’s because you want to put yourself to the test.”

“It’s because you know what you want to be-he.” Scootaloo sang. “Because you know-“

“It’s your destiny!” the crusaders all sang as the three of them including Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon get lifted in the air by the cheering crowd of student ponies. “It's because… you know… it’s your destiny! Whoa-oh-ooooh!"

“It’s because… we know… it’s our destiny! Whoa-oh-ooooh!” Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon both sang.

The crusaders, Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon then all sang, “It’s because… we all know… it’s your, it’s your, it’s your, you’re your, your your your your your your your…” One of the ponies in the crowd begin pounding their drums in a drum solo real hard until the drum beats began to slow down, and after the final beat, a cutie mark appears on his flank, and then finally, “Destinyyyyyyyyyyyyy!” And finally, the five friends gave eachother a group hug.

Author's Note

This chapter took me a while. It's hard thinking of cutie mark stories for each of the ponies, and it ain't easy making songs either, but these songs are necessary because it wouldn't be MLP without them. Basically, I'm only making songs in the chapters I feel it's most needed for them, and this is probably going to be the biggest CMC chapter in this story. There will still be other ones, but this one pretty much is about how the CMCs' cutie marks affect their lives, and it puts their destinies to the test! They're still going to be put to the test some more because I have some CMC chapters later on. I'm also glad I got to write a CMC chapter so we can take a break from the Mane Six and Starlight Glimmer, even though AppleJack did appear, but every single episode on MLP has at least one Mane Six chapter, so better to have AppleJack since she's pretty simple to write.

I'm glad I got to write a backstory for these school-aged ponies and have a chapter dedicated to them. We got to know Silver Spoon a bit better since Diamond Tiara usually steals her thunder it would be nice for Silver Spoon to have a scene to herself. Plus, we have Snips and Snails back since we haven't seen them in a LONG time, and even though they do act a bit dumb still, this would help give them a little bit of chapter development, rather than them just being stereotypical boys in a little girl's point of view. Plus, even though Diamond Tiara is now reformed like 50% of the antagonists in MLP, this chapter shows that she is trying, but she still has a little bit of her old ways still in her. I really have the feeling there's going to be an episode similar to this in the real season six.

Does anyone else besides me remember the Benny Hill chases in MLP Season 1? Well, I mean, did you remember before I reminded you of them? ;) I hope they do it again on the show one day. I doubt it though, but who knows? Who... *flicks nose* ...knows?

Rainbow Rescued

One peaceful day in Ponyville, a pack of timberwolves were attacking Ponyville, causing all sorts of havoc. Lemon Drops screamed her voice out as everypony in Ponyville was running around all over the place. Just as a pack of timberwolves were attacking, Lyra grabs Bon Bon’s arm as Bon Bon was dressed in a tuxedo, sunglasses, and had rope around one of her arms, and Lyra yells, “No! Don’t do it! It’s too dangerous!”

“I have to do it.” Bonnie said. “For when creatures attack Ponyville I must do what I can to protect it. For my name is Bon.” She then looks at the audience and says, “Bon Bon.”

“I thought your name was Sweetie Drops?” Lyra asked.

“Don’t ruin the moment, Lyra.” Bonnie instructed her while still posing for the audience.

Just then, something swoops by the duo real fast, and just like that a timberwolf was blown into a hundred pieces. The other timberwolves were pretty surprised as whatever it was as the mysterious figure flashed across the sky, and the ponies in Ponyville looked up at it. “Look! Up in the sky!” Parasol cried out. “It’s a bird!”

“It’s a plane!” Sassaflash cried out.

“Actually it is a bird.” Crescent Moon pointed to the bird flying across the sky. “See? There it is. No plane though.”

“No!” Derpy cried out. “It’s… Rainbow Dash!”

Just as Derpy cries out her name she lands on another Timberwolf smashing it to pieces. “Have no fear! Your friendly neighborhood Rainbow Dash is here!” Everypony cheered at her.

“Hey! This is my territory, Rainbow Dash!” Bonnie cried out.

“Sorry, agent, but its first come first serve!” Rainbow said as another timberwolf was just about to pounce on her, but then Bonnie uses some kind of gravity device to have it collapse and fall apart.

“You were saying?” Bonnie asked mischievously.

“Hey! No fair! I was distracted!” Rainbow complained.

“Whatever. My work here is done.” Bonnie said as she takes off her sunglasses and walks away.

“Oooo! You got schooled!” Lyra taunted Rainbow as she followed Bonnie.

“Heh! Whatever! I still destroyed more than her!” Rainbow said.

“You’re the best Rainbow Dash!” Parasol cried out.

“Aww no, no. I wouldn’t say the best.” Rainbow blushed as the timberwolves started to regenerate behind her. “I mean… I am pretty awesome! I saved Ponyville multiple times, I’m almost a Wonderbolt, I’m the Element of Loyalty, and… huh… you know what? I am the best! I actually agree with you! I should’ve never doubted you for a minute, Parasol! Uh, Parasol? What’s wrong?”

“LOOK OUT!” Parasol yelled.

“What?” Rainbow asked as she looked behind her and saw that the Timberwolf regenerated into one bigger one. “Heh! No problemo! Watch this!” Just then, Rainbow removes a little piece of stick from the timberwolf on its knee and then it automatically falls apart again. The whole crowd cheered afterwards, but Rainbow Dash stops them. “Hang on! Hang on! I’m not done yet! Watch this! I call it the whirlwind blowdry!” That was when Rainbow started to fly real fast around the timberwolf debris. She spun around them as fast as she could and created a rainbow tornado which blew the debris right back into the Everfree Forest. “HA! Now that sure blew you away, huh?” Rainbow taunted them and everypony started to cheer.

“Wow, Rainbow Dash! You saved us all yet again!” Parasol said.

“We owe you a debt of gratitude for saving us all the time!” Sassaflash said.

“Indeed.” Mayor Mare said. “You have shown great service to our community, Rainbow Dash. What has inspired you to have the courage to protect us all the time?”

“I dunno.” Rainbow shrugged. “I just want to be there for my community. I don’t just do it for the awesomeness. I mean c’mon, I’m not THAT boasting. I just want to be there for everypony in their time of need.”

“I see.” The mayor said. “Have you ever had the need to have the favor returned?”

“Pfft! Nopony needs to return the favor!” Rainbow said. “I insist on helping my fellow ponies. Ask any of my friends!” Rainbow looks over and sees Fluttershy flying by in the distance. “Hey, Fluttershy! You want to tell the mayor here that I’m happy to help and don’t need anything in return?!”

“No thanks!” Fluttershy called out. “I’m sure she’ll take your word for it!”

“You heard her there, mayor. You should take my word for it.” Rainbow said.

“But of course!” the mayor agreed.

“Well gotta dash!” Rainbow said as she flies off, and the crowd cheers as she dashes off. She flies over to Fluttershy and calls out, “Hey, Fluttershy! Wait up!”

“Oh… hey, Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy said.

“Hey.” Rainbow said as there was an awkward silence in the middle, and the two flew side by side down the Ponyville streets. “So did you see me take out those timberwolves?”

“Oh, no… I was just helping the birds feed their young when I heard the commotion.” Fluttershy said.

“Awww! You should’ve been there!” Rainbow complained. “It was so awesome!”

“I’m sure it was.” Fluttershy said.

“Uh, was that sarcasm?” Rainbow asked.

“Wha- no!” Fluttershy said. “I’m never sarcastic. It’s rude to be like that.”

“Eh, not all time.” Rainbow said as the two of them unawaringly fly into the Everfree Forest. “Sometimes it’s fun to be sarcastic. It helps lighten the mood, and prove that I’m no square.”

“But I don’t think you’re a square, Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy said.

“Of course I’m no square! That’s Twilight’s department, and sometimes AppleJack’s.” Rainbow said.

“What do you mean?” Fluttershy asked as evil eyes were spotted them in the shadows.

“I mean when Pinkie Pie says something that doesn’t make any sense or she makes up a new word, AppleJack or Twilight go right in and correct her. I mean really! She’s just having fun. No need to ruin the joke.” Rainbow explained.

“I guess. I don’t really pay attention to that sort of thing.” Fluttershy admitted.

“Heh, who’s the square now?” Rainbow chuckled.

“Umm… Rainbow Dash?” Fluttershy asked. “When did we end up in the Everfree Forest?”

“We didn’t.” Rainbow said. “We were just flying over the Ponyville streets and we somehow ended up in Everfree- Fluttershy why are we in Everfree Forest?”

“I dunno.” Fluttershy said frightenedly as she leans close to Rainbow. “You tell me!”

“And why are we still flying forward?” Rainbow asked.

“Um, not that I’m blaming you, but… umm… I’m just following you.” Fluttershy said as she smiles embarrassingly.

“Well then let’s go back.” Rainbow said. “I’m really not in the mood to seeing Zecora right now.”

“If you’re going to turn around, why haven’t you done it yet?” Fluttershy asked as she starts shivering in fright and hides behind Rainbow’s back.

“I can’t turn around when you’re holding onto me like that.” Rainbow informed her.

“I can’t… I’m too afraid to let go.” Fluttershy said.

“Why? We’ve been in this forest a hundred times already, even at its worse, and we always end up escaping alive!” Rainbow reminded her as something started to sneak up on them.

“It was just pure luck.” Fluttershy said.

“Luck? Ha! There’s no such thing as luck! Just courage and awesomeness!” Rainbow said.

“Well… umm… courage and awesomeness is your department, Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy said. “I’m just… cowardness and patheticness.”

“Hey at least you’re not a square.” Rainbow teased. Just then, they started to hear breathing sounds.

“Please tell me that’s your stomach!” Fluttershy hoped.

“Uh, that’s not even how a stomach rumbles sounds.” Rainbow reminded her.

“Well if it’s not you, then… what is-“ Rainbow and Fluttershy both turned around and saw what was behind them.

“Well my first guess was timberwolf but I guess I thought wrong.” Rainbow admitted as a cragadile was crawling up from behind and roared at them. Fluttershy started to scream. “Ha! You call this a problem? Stand back, Fluttershy and let the pros do the work.”

“Um, actually, I don’t think-“ Fluttershy started but Rainbow cuts her off.

“Nope, say no more, Fluttershy, I insist. Let me help you through this.” Rainbow insisted. “Ok, Mr. Cragadile, I’m giving you this one warning to go back where you came from and leave us alone, otherwise you’ll be bringing out the big guns!” The cragadile just roars at her, letting out some saliva on the process, which turns out to be mud. Rainbow wipes the mud off her and says, “Ew! Say it, don’t spray it!” The cragadile roars at her again and lets out a big chomp, but misses. “Ok then, I gave you your warning, now feel the wrath of Rainbow Dash!”

Rainbow let’s out raging scream as she charges towards the cragadile and starts spinning around it, trying to build up another tornado, but it doesn’t affect the creature one bit and in the process, the cragadile whips Rainbow with its tail which causes Rainbow to crash right into a tree. After she rubs her head in pain, she gets back up quickly. “Ah a real challenge! You’re no timberwolf that’s for sure!” The cragadile starts charging towards Rainbow and as it got close, Rainbow swoops up into the air forcing the crag to crash into the tree. “HA! Is that the best you got?” Rainbow taunted. Just then, the crag whips Rainbow with its tail again and makes Rainbow crash into a rock.

“Oh my. I can’t watch.” Fluttershy covers her eyes.

“Is that the only tactic you got that’s effective?” Rainbow taunted. “You fail to impress me.” The crag looks right back at Rainbow and then uses its breath on Rainbow. “Oh pee you! What is that stuff? What do you eat? Onion garlic bean stew? Why am I feeling… sleepy?” Rainbow suddenly falls right down onto the ground and starts to feel drowsy. “No! No… I can’t sleep! Fluttershy! I… must… protect her!”

“RAINBOW! Get back up! You can do it!” Fluttershy cheered.

“I… I… I… ugh!” Rainbow’s eyes suddenly become to heavy for her as she passes out from the cragadile’s breath. The crag licks its lips and begins to crawl over to Rainbow’s passed out body and it opens its mouth. As the crag got closer and closer, Rainbow was more doomed than ever. Just as the crag was about to chomp at her, Fluttershy swoops over and catches Rainbow and begins to fly as she could. The crag roars as it begins to chase Fluttershy. Fluttershy tried to fly faster and faster at the same time dodging trees, even though Rainbow’s passed out legs hit a couple of objects along the way which made Fluttershy say ‘sorry’ a lot.

The crag started to gain up on them. It gives out a big chomp when it got close, but Fluttershy moves her tail aside and the crag completely misses – this was when Rainbow started to wake up. “Huh… huh? What? What’s going on? Why can’t I feel the rest of my body?” Rainbow asked. “Where am I going? Fluttershy, what’s going on?”

“No time to explain! Cragadile… gotta… get away!” Fluttershy said.

“Huh?” Rainbow asked as she turns her neck around slightly and saw the crag gaining up on them. “Whoa! Fluttershy, you have to fly faster!”

“I can’t!” Fluttershy whined. “I’m getting tired! Why don’t you fly?!”

“The rest of my body is still asleep!” Rainbow yelled.

“Oh my!” Fluttershy cried as she started to get teary eyed. “I can’t do this, Rainbow Dash! I’m getting tired!”

“Keep going! You can do this, Fluttershy! I believe in you!” Rainbow yelled.

“I think… I think… I think I’m going to…” Fluttershy starts to fly slower and slower out of exhaustion, and the crag began to gain up on them.

“Fluttershy NO!” Rainbow yelled. Just then, just before the crag was able to catch up to them, it hits its head on a rock which leaned on a tree, and that’s when a bunch of coconuts fell from the tree and landed on its head. The crag began to act all dopey as a bump appeared on its head, and then it passes out. “Fluttershy!”

“What? Are we dead?” Fluttershy asked as she flew much slower with her eyes closed.

“No! You did it!” Rainbow cried. “You defeated the crag!”

“I did?” Fluttershy asked as she looked back.

“Yes you did! You’re a hero, Fluttershy! You saved my life!” Rainbow said excitedly. Just then, her excitement suddenly died down. “You… saved my life.”

“I… I saved your life?” Fluttershy asked.

“Umm… yeah… I guess you did.” Rainbow said upsettingly.

“Oh… my… this is… so wonderful!” Fluttershy said excitedly. “I don’t know what to say, accept… woo hoo!” she cries out gently, but as she cheers, she accidently drops Rainbow. “Oh… sorry.”

“It’s ok. I think I can move my body again.” Rainbow said as she helped herself up.

“Wow! I-I know how it feels to be you now!” Fluttershy said excitedly. “I was the one that saved Rainbow Dash’s life!”

“Don’t get too cocky, Fluttershy. I saved your life many times before. Don’t forget that.” Rainbow reminded her.

“Oh good, I didn’t want you to owe me a life debt or anything. Remember what happened last time?” Fluttershy reminded her.

“Don’t worry. It’s what friends are for.” Rainbow smiled. “It’s… what friends are for.”

“I’ll probably get praised in Ponyville!” Fluttershy said. “Oh… no, I wouldn’t want that. Too much attention. That’s your thing.”

“Well I don’t want to lose that praise!” Rainbow said. “I mean… I’m the one that saves ponies’ lives. Me getting saved by somepony like you? I think my ego is going to drop, big time!”

“Oh… I… I didn’t mean to drop your ego.” Fluttershy said. “Whatever that means.”

“Fluttershy, I got a favor to ask you.” Rainbow requested. “I know you saved my life and all, and I am truly grateful for it. But… I dunno, if everypony knows that you were the one that saved my life instead of me saving you? I mean… my popularity would collapse! I can’t have that. Can I?”

“No, I… I guess not.” Fluttershy said.

“Exactly!” Rainbow said. “So, when we get back to Ponyville, how about… I dunno… we reverse the story a bit?”

“What do you mean?” Fluttershy asked.

“I mean… instead of you saving my life, I was the one that saved YOU from the crag!” Rainbow suggested.

“Oh, but… that would be lying.” Fluttershy said as she holds onto her tail.

“Uh, we’re Elements of Loyalty and Kindness, Fluttershy. AppleJack’s honesty.” Rainbow reminded her.

“Oh… right.” Fluttershy understood.

“Look, Fluttershy, you’re a hero in my eyes, but like you said, you don’t want to be praised by Ponyville.” Rainbow reminded her. “Let me take the attention away from you. I’ll still have my ego, and you can be left alone by the public. Sound like a deal?”

“Oh… I… I dunno, Rainbow.” Fluttershy said. “It just… doesn’t seem right lying to everypony.”

“If we tell them you saved my life, I won’t be a hero in anypony’s eyes anymore, and you will have all the attention. If we tell them I saved you, it would be a win-win scenario!” Rainbow explained. “We’d both get what we want!”

“Well, umm… ok, Rainbow Dash.” Fluttershy smiled. “You have a deal!”

“Thata girl, Flutters! Put ‘er there!” Rainbow takes her arm out wanting a hoof bump, but Fluttershy was scared after she stuck out her hoof. “No, Fluttershy, it’s a hoof bump. It’s a way two friends are excited, like…” she pounds her hooves together, “POW!”

“Umm… POW!” Fluttershy said as she bumps her hooves together too.

“No, not like that.” Rainbow corrected her. “It’s just a friendly tap. Just pounding the hooves together. Kind of a way of saying ‘hey, friend!’.

“Umm… hey.” Fluttershy said, still not getting what she’s talking about.

“C’mon, hoof bump!” Rainbow yelled as she sticks her hoof up in the air, and Fluttershy flinches in fright, thinking she was going to get punched. “Umm… I guess we’ll work on that later.” She chuckles.

Once Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash leave Everfree Forest, Twilight, Pinkie, AppleJack, and Rarity were waiting outside for them. “Rainbow Dash! Fluttershy! Oh thank goodness you’re ok!” AppleJack said in relief.

“You had us all worried, dears!” Rarity said. “Why did you wander into Everfree Forest?”

“Did you say hi to Zecora?” Pinkie asked.

“Sorry, girls.” Rainbow said. “But, umm… we just got distracted and wandered off the trail accidently.”

“Well we’re glad you two are ok.” Twilight said.

“Did you two run into spooky monsters while in there and get eaten by them?” Pinkie asked.

“Uh, Pinkie, how can they get eaten if they’re right here?” AppleJack asked her.

“They got digested, duh!” Pinkie informed her. “How else are they here? I’m not a square like you, AppleJack!” She boops her nose.

“HA!” Rainbow laughed.

“But Pinkie does make a good question. Did you two run into anything?” Rarity asked.

“Well, umm… we did run into a crocodile.” Fluttershy admitted.

“WHAT?!” the Mane Four all yelled in surprise.

“Is that true?!” Rarity asked.

“Sure is! But we showed ‘em who’s boss!” Rainbow said.

“We thought we were done for!” Fluttershy explained. “Rainbow fought that huge beast real well, until she got tail whipped, so I came in and saaaaa… umm… umm…” She froze as she knew she was close revealing the truth. The rest of her friends were paying attention in suspense as Rainbow shook her head worryingly. After thinking about what to say, Fluttershy finally said, “I got saved by Rainbow Dash after the croc nearly ended me!”

“Well it ain’t no surprise.” AppleJack said. “Rainbow Dash is always there for her friends in distress.”

“She sure is!” Rarity said. “I just hope you’re not feeling chills right now, Fluttershy. Crocadile’s are most dreadful creatures!”

“Oh, I’m fine, Rarity.” Fluttershy smiled. “I am a little shaken, but it’s not going to scar me for life. I’ve faced things that are much worse.”

“Like TWO crocadiles?” Pinkie asked with a couple of crocadile stick puppets.

“EEP!” Fluttershy gasped as she covered her face with her hair.

“Two?!” Twilight asked. “It’s bad enough being face to face with one! I was never so scared in my life when I ran into one of those guys! Even dragons are walk in the park!”

“Because she lives with one!” Pinkie said.

“So please, Rainbow. Why don’t you tell us your experience with the cocadile?” Twilight asked. “They will be most useful for my research!”

“Totally!” Rainbow said. “It’s got like a hundred teeth, and claws that can scratch the strongest of rocks, and not to mention that tail! That’ll knock ya right out of the sky!”

“And probably eyes that stare directly into your soul!” Pinkie said as she stares into Rarity’s eyes. Rarity was feeling a little uncomfortable after she did that.

“Please, Pinkie Pie, you’re invading my personal space.” Rarity informed her as she slightly pushes her away.

“Tell us more about how you rescued Fluttershy!” Pinkie requested.

“Ah! I can tell you that in FULL detail!” Rainbow started. Fluttershy suddenly sighs.

After a few hours went by, Fluttershy was at her cottage filling up some compost for her pigs. “There you go, little piggies! I hope you enjoy your neutrinos meal!” One of the pigs smile at Fluttershy showing some of the compost stuck on its teeth. Fluttershy smiles brightly, but just until Angel pulls on her tail and shows her his empty bowl. “Ow! Oh, Angel. You must be hung- wait a minute. Didn’t I just feed you 10 minutes ago?” Angel stamps his foot with unamusement. “You must still be hungry. I probably didn’t give you enough lettuce. I knew I didn’t have enough for your salad. I’ll go get some more right away.” Angel smiles as he starts to hop away, but Fluttershy stops him.

“Hang on, Angel. Remember our deal. I give you what you want if you give me something in return.” Fluttershy reminded him. Angel sighs and rolls his eyes as he jumps up on Fluttershy’s shoulder and gives her a kiss on the cheek. Fluttershy giggles and blushes and said, “I love you too, Angel! Ok, I’ll get your lettuce for you.” So Fluttershy flies out of her yard and starts heading over to Ponyville to get Angel what he wants. That was when a group of ponies walk by and looked right at Fluttershy. She heard them whispering to eachother about how she was face to face with a crocadile. Fluttershy felt a wee-bit concerned to how they knew that.

Up ahead by the grass area, a school-aged pony roared while wearing a crocadile outfit. “Rawr! I am a scary crocadile! I will eat you, Fluttershy!”

“Oh no, no! Please don’t eat me! I am so vulnerable!” another school-aged pony cried.

“Rawr! I am going to eat you with my hundreds of stoney-sharp teeth!” the crocadile pony said.

“No please! Somepony save me!” the Fluttershy pony cried.

“Dun dun dun duuuuun! Have no fear! Your friendly neighborhood Rainbow Dash is here! I’ll save you Fluttershy!” a school-aged pony in a Rainbow Dash outfit yelled as she play-punches the crocadile pony in the face as he cries out in pain and falls to the floor.

“I have been defeated!” the cocadile pony yelled.

“Yay! Rainbow Dash! My hero!” the Fluttershy pony cheered.

“Mmph.” The actual Fluttershy groaned.

“Hey, Cloud Kicker, look! It’s Fluttershy!” Merry May pointed out.

“Wow! That’s so cool!” Cloud Kicker said excitedly. “You actually went face to face with a crocadile?”

“Umm… yes?” Fluttershy said.

“Wow! I am so envious of you, Fluttershy!” Cloud Kicker said. “It is so totally cool to actually confront a crocadile and survive!”

“Yeah, Fluttershy! That’s rad!” Merry May said. “And then Rainbow Dash comes down to rescue you. She may have saved you, but you’re a hero too, Fluttershy! You gave Rainbow Dash the confidence she needed!”

“She’s so lucky to have a friend like you!” Cloud Kicker said as the duo walk passed Fluttershy and away, but not before Cloud Kicker asked, “Hey Merry May? Did anypony ever told you that we kinda look alike?”

“Huh?” Fluttershy asked curiously. “How does everypony know about this?”

That was when she saw a crowd of ponies over at Sugarcube Corner. Fluttershy glides on inside and sees Rainbow Dash telling the story on how she rescued Fluttershy at Everfree. “And I thought I couldn’t stand a chance! I thought I was done for! The crocadile was too powerful, but that’s when Fluttershy who was cowering in fear yelled out that I could do it! She gave me the confidence I needed to save her from- oh, Fluttershy! There you are! Come up here!”

The crowd cheers for Fluttershy, but Fluttershy felt a bit nervous that all the attention was focused on her. Rainbow smiles as she said, “C’mon, Fluttershy! Don’t be shy! Prove you’re better than your name!” Fluttershy gulped as she flew up to where Rainbow is. Rainbow puts her arm around Fluttershy and continues the story. “This here is the pony that gave me the confidence to save her from the crocadile. I flew up to the crocadile, grabbed it by the tail, swung it around, and threw it way deep into the Everfree Forest! Fluttershy thanked me for saving her life. But I said, ‘No Fluttershy. It was you that saved me. For I wouldn’ve had the confidence to do it if you didn’t think I could do it’. So you see, I’m not the only hero here. Fluttershy here is a hero too.” The crowd cheers for her.

“Umm, Rainbow?” Fluttershy asked.

“Right, right. How silly of me.” Rainbow smacked herself on the head. “Fluttershy here doesn’t feel like you should praise her. She told me after we left Everfree that she doesn’t want to have all this attention. She may be a hero, but I’m still everypony’s favorite neighborhood Rainbow Dash!” The crowd cheers again.

“WOO HOO! Rainbow Dash!” Pinkie cried out in excitement. “To celebrate her, cupcakes on the house!” The crowd cheers yet again.

“Mmm, yummy! Thanks, Pinkie!” Starlight Glimmer said as she takes a cupcake.

“Are you sure the Cakes would allow you to do this?” Spike asked as he takes one.

Pinkie starts to laugh. “I have no idea! They’re out making a cake delivery! I’m supposed to watch over the place while they’re gone!” She continues to laugh. Spike and Starlight both look at eachother in confusion. As Rainbow smiles at poses at the cheering crowd, Fluttershy tries to sneak away. As she tries to sneak over to the kitchen, Twilight stops her.

“Fluttershy, where are you going?” Twilight asked.

“I don’t want to be here. Too much attention!” Fluttershy said.

“Yeah I gotta say, Rainbow Dash knows you too well. She should’ve known that giving you all that attention made you uncomfortable.” Twilight thought.

“It does. It would appear that either way, I’d be getting myself too much attention, and I don’t like it!” Fluttershy said.

“Wait… what do you mean ‘either way’?” Twilight asked.

“I’m sorry, Twilight. I-I, I gotta go.” Fluttershy said as she rushed through the kitchen and out of Sugarcube Corner. Twilight started to think as Rainbow continued to boast.

“Hey, Rainbow Dash!” Sassaflash called out.

“Yes, Sassaflash?” Rainbow asked.

“How does it feel to fight two beasts in one day?” Sassaflash asked.

“Yeah, first the timberwolves and then the crocadile. Doesn’t it tire you out?” Parasol asked.

“HA! As if! This pony never gets tired out.” Rainbow said. “I might’ve had a little bit of a weakness back in Everfree, but it’s really nothing. We all have our weaknesses at times.”

“IT’S TRUE!” Pinkie yelled as she puts her arms around Sassaflash and Parasol’s necks, surprising them in the process. “We all have weaknesses all the time! Also, you two look so much alike!”

“Yeah, we get that a lot.” Sassaflash said.

“A bunch of us do.” Parasol said.

“Umm, Rainbow Dash?” Twilight called out.

“Twilight! You have a question?” Rainbow asked.

“Yes I do.” Twilight said. “I just wanted to ask: is everything that you’re saying true?” The crowd gasped.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa!” Rainbow stopped her. “Where did… where did that come from? Of course it’s all true!”

“But we weren’t there. Were we?” Twilight asked mischievously.

“Of course you weren’t.” Rainbow said. “You don’t know what’s actually happened, but you have no proof that what I’m saying isn’t true either. I mean, we saw results on how much of a hero I am. You saw it this morning! I fought a timberwolf in front of the whole town! Don’t believe me? Ask Mayor Mare.”

“It’s true. It’s all true.” The mayor said in the crowd.

“Exactly!” Rainbow said. “I mean if I said that I just rescued Fluttershy without her giving me her confidence, then maybe you’d act suspicious, but you shouldn’t, because she’s a hero like me!” The crowd all nods in agreement.

“Hmm…” Twilight thought.

“What’s wrong, Twilight?” Starlight asked.

“Something just doesn’t add up.” Twilight said. “I think I should do a little bit of investigating.”

Over at the market place, Fluttershy was buying some lettuce at one of the stalls. “Thanks.” Fluttershy said as she takes the lettuce.

“No prob! I hope you don’t find any crocs on the way home!” the merchant teased. Fluttershy gets embarrassed and starts running away. Rainbow witnesses what’s happened, so she decides to see what her friend’s problem is.

She flies over to Fluttershy, walks along side her, and says, “What up, Flutters?”

“Oh… hey, Rainbow.” Fluttershy said upsettingly as she looks down on the ground.

“Don’t let that pony bother you. He teases everypony that visits him.” Rainbow said. “It’s just his way of humor. Like… think about the humor in between Pinkie Pie and Discord.”

“Sure.” Fluttershy said.

“Hey, what’s going on? What’s bothering you?” Rainbow asked.

“Oh, it’s… nothing.” Fluttershy said.

“C’mon, tell me. Is it something I did?” Rainbow asked.

“No.” Fluttershy said.

“It’s something I did, isn’t it?” Rainbow asked.

“No.” Fluttershy said again.

“Ugh! It’s the attention I gave you!” Rainbow groaned. “Fluttershy, I’m so sorry! That wasn’t intentional at all!”

“It’s… ok.” Fluttershy said.

“No it’s not!” Rainbow said upsettingly. “Look at me, bragging about how I saved your life just to avoid the attention. But no, I had to bring you into it saying you’re a hero too. But I can explain it!”

“No, really. It’s ok.” Fluttershy said.

Rainbow wasn’t paying any attention to what Fluttershy was saying, so she continued, “When I was going around telling everypony how I rescued you, I started to feel bad because I wasn’t giving you enough credit. So I decided to add into the story. Say that you were the one that gave me the confidence to rescue you. I know you didn’t want that kind of attention, but it just didn’t feel right. Then knowing how ponies are usually doomed when they go face to face with a crocadile, we both became renowned, so either way, you would’ve gotten the attention anyway.”

“Rainbow, it’s ok.” Fluttershy said as she stopped and turned to look at her.

“Are you sure?” Rainbow asked.

“Absolutely.” Fluttershy said. “Whatever makes you happy. I’m happy.”

“You don’t seem too happy.” Rainbow said.

“Well… actually… I’m not.” Fluttershy admitted.

“Ah ha! I knew it! I knew those nos weren’t real!” Rainbow said.

“I know, but I just don’t like this attention.” Fluttershy said. “I know you like being the hero and all, and you love to be the center of attention. But I’m not like you, Rainbow Dash. I just want to blend in the background as you make a show for everypony. It’s where I belong.”

Rainbow sighs. “Ok, Fluttershy. If that’s how you want it,” she smiles, “I won’t bring up this story anymore. I’ll just go back to being the hero of the town, and this story won’t be brought up again.”

Fluttershy smiles back. “I can live with that.”

Just then, as things were couldn’t get worse; a pony shows up in front of Rainbow and Fluttershy. He was a light blue unicorn, he had blue eyes, wore a tan trenchcoat and a dark journalist hat with a little white tag on it, and had a notepad for a cutie mark. He also had a pencil on his ear, had a camera around his neck, and carried a satchel too. “Um, excuse me?” he asked. “Are you two the pegasi that go by the names of Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash?”

“More like Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy but go ahead.” Rainbow said.

“My name is Blue Print.” The pony said. “I’m a journalist for the Ponyville Chronicles. We at the Ponyville Chronicles would like to give you an interview on your actions in Everfree Forest. It was a crocadile incident, was it not?”

“Well, umm… we-“ Fluttershy started.

“We have nothing more to say on the subject.” Rainbow interrupts her. “Can we move on with our lives please?”

“Oh of course, Fluttershy.” Blue Print said.

“I’m Rainbow Dash.” She corrected her.

“Really? Oh, beg your pardon. All I got was your names, not between who is who.” Blue Print admitted. “I mean the names ‘Rainbow Dash’ and ‘Fluttershy’, those names don’t resemble you two at all.” Rainbow and Fluttershy both glare at him. Blue Print then uses his magic to take a notepad out of his satchel, and then he takes his pencil and places the point on the notepad. “Now then. How about you both tell me what happened?”

“Oh it was nothing really.” Rainbow said. “Fluttershy and I were just flying around Ponyville, but as we were talking, we got distracted and accidently wandered into Everfree Forest. Then a crocadile attacked, I got incapacitated, Fluttershy gave me the confidence, and just before the crocadile could attack Fluttershy, BOOM! I saved her life. Is that enough information?”

“I see.” Blue Print said as he wrote the stuff down. “How about you Miss Fluttershy? How did you feel about the incident?”

“Oh, umm… pretty scared.” Fluttershy said. “Crocadiles are pretty dangerous creatures. We could’ve been eaten.”

“And did you do anything about it?” Blue Print asked.

“All I did was coware in fear.” Fluttershy said. “I’m sorry, Mr. Blueprint… sir, but can we not talk about this anymore?”

“Absolutely. I just have a few more questions and you can be on your way.” Blue Print said.

“Well make it quick! We have things to do!” Rainbow complained.

“This shouldn’t take long.” Blue Print said. “Now then, Fluttershy, what were the exact words you said to Rainbow Dash when she was feeling like she wanted to give up?”

“Hey, hey! Why do you keep asking her all the questions?” Rainbow complained. “Am I going to going to get any?”

“You pretty much said everything you needed to say at your story sessions.” Blue Print reminded her.

“Oh… right.” Rainbow remembered as she chuckled embarrassingly.

“So how about it, Fluttershy? What did the words you said to Fluttershy mean to you?” Blue Print asked.

“Well, umm… umm…” Fluttershy thought, but she couldn’t think of anything. “It felt… good? I guess?”

“C’mon you do better than that! Something the readers would want!” Blue Print requested. “I mean, all we get on the news these days is tragedies. We want good news for a change!”

“Umm… well… I… I felt… I felt….” Fluttershy stuttered.

“I think we’re done here. C’mon, Fluttershy. Let’s go.” Rainbow said as she started to fly but Blue Print stopped her.

“Wait! Just one more question!” Blue Print begged. “Just one more question, and I’ll go! I promise!”

“Ugh!” Rainbow groaned. “Make it quick! Fluttershy here has animals to tend to!”

“Fluttershy,” Blue Print started, “when Rainbow Dash saved your life, how did you feel?”

“Good.” Fluttershy said as she started to lose her patience.

“Can I have a better answer than that?” Blue Print asked.

“She said ‘good’! Now go away!” Rainbow ordered him.

“But we need a better answer than that!” Blue Print demanded. “It’s not for me! It’s for the readers!” Blue Print started to blow a fuse and Fluttershy got scared and flinch in fright. She even started to whimper with tears in her eyes. “All of Ponyville wants to know the big news! How did you feel when Rainbow Dash saved you?! You must feel some gratitude of some sort for your friend!”

“PLEASE STOP!” Fluttershy cried.

“ENOUGH!” Rainbow yelled. “Ok?! Enough! I did NOT save Fluttershy’s life, ok?! She saved my life! I made up the whole story! I didn’t want to lose my ego when everypony thought I was the one that had my life saved! But it was Fluttershy! It was all Fluttershy! I fought the cragadile but failed, and Fluttershy saved my life!” Rainbow Dash turns to Fluttershy and smiled at her. “And I’m not ashamed to admit that anymore! She deserves it! She’s my hero! And my thanks is all she needs!” Rainbow turns towards the Ponyville ponies that were listening the whole time. “And she doesn’t need any praise, or hero parties, or stories about how she saved me! All she did was save me! Fluttershy’s the hero here, and she wants to be left alone about it! Capiche?!”

All of the Ponyville citizens spoke to one another concerningly, and then they all turned around and walked away. Blue Print says, “I… I’m sorry for… bothering you two. I… I guess I can just… make up a story. Nopony would know the difference. You proved that. I guess… I guess I’ll be on my way.” Blue Print walks away.

“Wow, Rainbow Dash! Thank you so much for standing up to me like that!” Fluttershy said happily. “But… you would lose your ego and popularity now.”

“I don’t care about that anymore.” Rainbow said upsettingly as she then smiled at Fluttershy. “I had to tell them the truth. I should’ve given you more credit for saving me. No amount of popularity and praise would make-up the fact that you are my hero!” Fluttershy and Rainbow both hugged.

“I guess it makes up for all the times you rescued me?” Fluttershy asked.

“Hey, whoa there!” Rainbow stopped her. “I sacrificed my popularity for you. Don’t push it.”

The next day came, and Twilight, AppleJack, Pinkie, Rarity, Starlight, and Spike all met up at the castle throne room where they all gathered around for a meeting. “Ok, so once Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash get here. We can get started on our meeting.” Twilight said.

“Ah wonder what’s takin’ them so long?” AppleJack asked.

“Is it another crocadile attack?!” Pinkie asked worryingly.

“Yeah, I doubt that would happen twice in a row.” Rarity said.

Pinkie suddenly covers Rarity’s mouth and says, “Don’t jinx it, Rarity!”

“What’s there to jinx? Ah’m sure they’re fine.” AppleJack said.

“Of course they are!” Twilight said. “They’ll be here in no time!”

Just then, the doors suddenly open and Rainbow and Fluttershy fly on inside. “Here we are! Sorry we’re late.” Rainbow said.

“AH! See, AppleJack? See?! Jinxes DO happen! They came in no time at all!” Pinkie yelled.

“Ah’m sure it was a coincidence.” AppleJack said.

“Yeah, try telling that to your barn, AppleJack.” Spike teased. Starlight starts to laugh hysterically at his joke. Like so hysterically that she could hardly breathe.

“This guy! This guy right here!” Starlight said as she continued to laugh and hug on Spike.

“Wow, heh… didn’t think it was THAT hilarious.” Spike said.

“You’re hilarious!” Starlight yelled as she continued to laugh and hug on Spike, and she starts to rock him. Rarity angrily walks over and takes Spike from her and hugs him.

“Hey! Find your own dragon to laugh at!” Rarity yelled at her.

“Ooooook then.” Twilight said awkwardly. “Now that everypony is here. We can get started at our friendship meeting.”

“What’s the good word, Twilight?” AppleJack asked.

“Well, the map hasn’t called us recently so that’s out of the picture.” Twilight said. “But I called you all here just to see if anypony had any friendship problems lately.”

“Nope. None recently to be honest.” AppleJack said.

“Not really, no.” Rarity said.

“Does accidently burning a pie for a customer and then forced to just buy one from a nearby market stall and charge double for what I pay for count?” Pinkie asked with her arm up.

“Does the customer know?” Twilight asked.

“No.” Pinkie said.

“Is the customer happy?” Twilight asked.

“Absol-poset-lutely!” Pinkie said.

“Then I don’t see how that could be a problem.” Twilight said. “Rainbow Dash? Fluttershy? Do either of you have anything to share?”

“I do have something to share.” Rainbow said.

“Ah, so you admit it then! The boasting you made at Sugarcube Corner wasn’t true then!” Twilight said mischievously.

“Wow. Where have you been hiding? Under a rock or something?” Rainbow asked. “I just admitted it yesterday in front of the whole town!”

“Yeah, Twilight, don’t be such a square.” Fluttershy said mischievously.

“Oooooo SNAP!” Pinkie yelled.

“That was a burn!” Rarity said.

“Heh! For once ah wasn’t called the square!” AppleJack laughed. Twilight glares at them as everypony else started laughing, and just then, Rainbow Dash sticks out her hoof, and Fluttershy didn’t even flinch this time. Fluttershy picks up her hoof and was about to hoof bump her, but she completely misses and punches her in the nose.

“OW!” Rainbow yelled as she held her nose.

“Oh my gosh!” Fluttershy said worryingly.

“AAH! My muzzle! My muzzle!” Rainbow cried.

“Rainbow, I am sooooo sorry!” Fluttershy said upsettingly.

“My muzzle was nowhere near my hoof! How can you miss by that much?!” Rainbow yelled as she gets teary eyed.

“Like you said, I need to work on it.” Fluttershy smiled embarrassingly. Just then Rainbow smiles back and removes her hooves from her face.

“Meh, I’m sure it wasn’t that bad!” Rainbow said happily as everypony gasps over Rainbow Dash’s very swollen nose. Rarity was about to barf, and Pinkie’s jaw drops right on the table. “You didn’t even punch that hard, Fluttershy! That barely hurt!”

Just then, the Ponyville Chronicles newspaper article gets released with the title ‘Shy pegasus pony saves hero’s life, and then gets punched in the muzzle for lying’, showing a picture of Fluttershy hugging Rainbow with her bandaged nose and tissues tugged inside her nostrils, and Rainbow got surprised at the camera for taking the picture.

Author's Note

This chapter was pretty easy to make! It seemed kinda shorter than the first four but whatever. I ain't getting paid for this. I really had fun with this one! I played around with the BG ponies, make a funny joke with them, and yeah, I thought this one was pretty good! If you actually think about it, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy never had an episode together with both of them being protagonists. I mean they do play major parts in certain episodes they appear in, and they did appear alot together on May the Best Pet Win! and Hurricane Fluttershy, but they weren't necessarily both starred in it. So I decided to make one.

With 4chan making up the name 'Rainbow Rescued', I thought it would be funny to see what would happen if Rainbow Dash was the one that got rescued instead, and by the least expecting pony ever! XD Although I didn't want it to be too much like Spike at Your Service, because we all know how that episode ended up! Rainbow ain't like that, but I knew if she was the one being rescued, she wouldn't want to admit it. I was originally going to give Tank an appearance in here too, but I had no clue where to put him.

Runway Success

One day over at Canterlot Carousel Boutique, Sassy Saddles was using her magic to place gems on a blue peacock-like dress when suddenly the front door opens and rings the bell as it opens. “Hellooooo?” Rarity calls out.

Sassy excitedly walks out of the back office and excitedly says, “Rarity, well I’ll be a gem!”

“Sassy Saddles!” Rarity said excitedly as they gave eachother a hug. “I’m glad to see that the shop isn’t burned down when I was gone.”

“Oh Rarity, you didn’t tell me you were coming!” Sassy said.

“I wanted to surprise you!” Rarity said.

“Well the plan sure worked!” Sassy said. “How are things in Ponyville, dear?”

“Very well actually!” Rarity said. “Business is really taking off! I’m working to the bone just to keep my customers happy!”

“Oh ditto over here, darling!” Sassy said. “So what brings you here?”

“Just wanted to check up on things.” Rarity said as she looks around the boutique. “I also wanted to give you a little something for your hard work.”

“Splendid!” Sassy said. “Let me just go get the mail real quick and I’ll be right back with you.”

“I’ll be here waiting!” Rarity said as Sassy walks out of the boutique to get to the mail. Rarity then starts talking to herself, “Rarity, you are a genius! Hiring somepony like Sassy Saddles to manage the expansion might be the most genius thing you’ve ever did. Oh shucks, Rarity, no need to flatter yourself. Of course Sassy Saddles was a good choice! She’ll a very loyal employee and wants what’s best for the business. She’s always proven that. Maybe not the best ideas all the time, but she knows what’s best.”

“RARITY!” Sassy cried as she slams the door open and runs back inside with a letter.

“What? What is it?” Rarity asked.

“It’s a letter from Fashion Plate!” Sassy freaked out.

“The editor from Cosmare Magazine?” Rarity asked happily.

“Yes! He wants to come back here tomorrow for another one of his… how you say… delicate observing?” Sassy said.

“Well that’s just splendid!” Rarity said excitedly. “I mean, the boutique has already had a part in one of his magazines already.”

“Yeah, umm… yeah.” Sassy said as her excitement dies down.

“What’s wrong?” Rarity asked. “Do we not have enough new dresses to show him?”

“Wha- NO, no. Not that.” Sassy said. “It’s just… he wants somepony to pose as a model to try on the dresses.”

“Oh my, that is bad.” Rarity said.

“Well that’s not so difficult, dear.” Sassy smiles. “We just hire some wannabes we think looks enough and they’ll try on the dresses.”

“Oh but these dresses are very delicate, Sassy.” Rarity said. “Not just anypony can actually wear them from somepony in high places like Fashion Plate.”

“Yeah, you’re probably right.” Sassy said as she observes the shop for the dresses. “Somepony that really looks the part needs to try on these dresses for him.”

“Somepony like… you?” Rarity suggested.

“What?” Sassy asked surprisingly. “Oh no, Rarity, I couldn’t!”

“Oh but you must!” Rarity insisted. “Look at you! Not only do you have an eye for fashion and detail like me, but you really look stunning yourself! Why, even I like plain and boring compared to you!”

“Oh don’t doubt yourself, Rarity. You look beautiful!” Sassy said.

Rarity giggles and then says, “Not as beautiful as you, Sassy!”

“Aww, well shucks.” Sassy blushes. No, don’t start shipping these two ok? They’re just colleagues. Also I bet people already beat you to it before I even released this chapter.

“So what do you say? You want to look the part for Fashion Plate?” Rarity asked.

“Hmm… give me some time to think it over.” Sassy requested.

“Take all the time you need.” Rarity insisted.

So they both stood there and stayed quiet for a few seconds, and just then, Sassy cries out, “Ok enough thinking. I’ll do it!”

The next day came, and Canterlot Carousel was packed by all sorts of ponies. They all gathered around the boutique chatting while they waited for the show to start. Rarity from behind the curtains on the stage was peeking through and observed the crowd. She then spots Fashion Plate in the crowd and glees in excitement. “There he is, Sassy! Fashion Plate is here!”

“Oooooh, I’m so nervous, Rarity!” Sassy said worryingly.

“Don’t be nervous, dear.” Rarity informed her.

“Oh like that really helps me!” Sassy said sarcastically.

“Sassy?” Rarity asked.

“Sorry… sorry… oh feathers and spots, Rarity! I’m so nervous!” Sassy said.

“Trust me, you’ll do fine.” Rarity said. “Now let’s do this!” As everypony was still talking, the lights start to dim and everypony starts to quiet down. The spotlight shines over Rarity as she walks up on stage. The real question right now is: who’s the one controlling the lights? Rarity clears her throat and says, “Good morning, everypony! We at Canterlot Carousel would like to thank you for coming to this occasion! And especially… one of you.” Rarity looks over at Fashion Plate. “Now, without further ado, I’d like to introduce to you a new style we have this season! I give you: the Sapphire Peacock!”

The curtains open revealing Sassy in her peacock outfit that she was making earlier, that is now finished obviously. The crowd gets impressed over Sassy’s dress. Sassy gets a little shy but she doesn’t hesitate to pose for the crowd. “Oh marvelous! Simply marvelous!” Fashion Plate said as he starts to take pictures of Sassy in the dress.

“Oh but wait, it gets better!” Rarity said as she nods at Sassy. Sassy nods back as she uses her magic to unleash the colorful feathers on the dress. The back of the dress spreads out like a peacock, and the audience felt even more woed at her look.

“Oh my goodness! Sweet Celestia! Sweet Luna! Sweet… all the princesses!” Fashion Plate cheered. “This is like… like… well I dunno what to say!”

“I do.” Hoity Toity said. “The dress is simply the most divine thing I’ve ever seen! Oh, but that’s simply not the secret to the dress is it?”

“Of course not!” Photo Finish said. “Za real magics come from za pony behind za dress! Who is zis fabulous pony?”

“Probably the next best thing, that’s for sure!” Hoity Toity said.

“Oh I agree! I agree 100%!” Fashion Plate said excitedly. Sassy and Rarity both looked at eachother in excitement as the crowd cheers for them.

A little later, everypony leaves the boutique, and some had a few bags of dresses on hoof before they left. Once everypony leaves, Rarity shuts the door behind them. “We did it, Sassy! We should woo’d them all!”

“Including Fashion Plate?” Sassy asked.

“Including Fashion Plate!” Rarity said.

“Well polish my buttons, Rarity! I can’t believe we actually pulled it off!” Sassy said excitedly.

“I can! When it comes to working with me, Sassy, you’re always a success, and I know my success has already rubbed off on you.” Rarity said.

“Oh but it was the dress that was the main theme of this event.” Sassy said. “Everypony was quite fond of it.”

“Oh but it wasn’t just the dress, dear.” Rarity informed her. “Everypony was impressed at you! They were impressed at you!”

“Me?!” Sassy asked surprisingly. “B-but… I was just there for show! I was the only thing there holding the dress up for everypony to see. I’m not that important.”

“Oh hush, darling. You were gorgeous!” Rarity said as she takes Sassy to a mirror to look at herself. “Everypony thought you were a star. See that? That is a very gorgeous pony with a genius mind of expertise and good looks!”

“Yep! And there’s me too!” Sassy teased.

Rarity laughs and says, “Don’t doubt yourself, Sassy.”

“I know I shouldn’t.” Sassy said. “But I just don’t want this to be about me. I want it to be about the dresses.”

“Well, you do have a point there, Sassy.” Rarity said. “It is indeed about the dresses, and there’s nothing anypony could do to change that.” They both smiled.

Later that night, Sassy returns to her house and was brushing her teeth before she turns in for the night. She gargles with mouth wash and spits into the sink, and then she wipes her face with her towel as she looks through the mirror and sees the reflection of her closet housing all her dresses that she’s worn in the past. She walks over to her closet and observes some of her dresses, and she smiles. She then finds a book lying on top of a box. She picks it up with her magic and opens it.

Sassy sighs and says, “Wouldn’t I give to experience that moment again.” She looks through the pictures and sees some of the photos of her in her younger years in various fashion shows in various dresses. She then sees the final picture and it featured her in tears as she wore a sparkly dress, and held a bouquet of flowers, and there was even a banner around her that says ‘Miss Equestria’. She smiles again and places her hoof under the picture. Just then, her door bell rung.

Sassy was tying up her robe as she ran down stairs as the door bell was ringing constantly. “I’m coming! I’m coming! Hold yourselves!” she shouted. She opens the door and gasps in shock. “Fashion Plate?!”

“Sassy Saddles! My dear, you look as beautiful as ever!” Fashion Plate said excitedly.

“Oh, umm… thank you!” Sassy said with a smile. “Can I… help you with something?”

“Oh I saw you over at the boutique this morning, and you were very FABULOUS!” Fashion Plate said as he said ‘fabulous’ in a girly tone. Why do all these fashion stallions sound so girly all the time?

“Oh… thank you!” Sassy blushed. “Would you, umm… like to come in?”

“Why certainly!” Fashion said as he walks inside her house and Sassy closes the door after he walks in. “And might I add, this place looks just as lovely as the pony who lives in it!”

“Oh stop it!” Sassy blushed. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were hitting on me!”

“Oh goodness, no!” Fashion said in shock. “I mean… hmph, no offense, but this is strictly a business opportunity I have in stock for you!”

“Business?” Sassy asked as they both sat down on her sofa. “What kind of business?”

“I know who you are, Sassy Saddles.” Fashion Plate said mischievously to her.

“Umm… I don’t follow.” Sassy said.

“Before you went into the boutique businesses?” Fashion Plate reminded her.

“Oh that?” Sassy asked. “Well… it was good while it lasted. But I wanted to move to other things. Working in boutiques all around Equestria sounded more of a smart career choice for me.”

“I know, I know, but you were so sensational!” Fashion Plate said. “You know, when you first retired, I said to myself, ‘Fashion Plate, Sassy Saddles might not have it in her anymore’. But after seeing you up there on that stage in that gorgeous dress. You proved me wrong. I thought ‘she’s still got it’! I’m giving you a chance to redeem your title.”

“Thank you, Fashion Plate. I really appreciate the offer, really I do.” Sassy said. “But being a successful model has its limits. I ran through my course. After becoming Miss Equestria, I thought it was the limit, so I decided to retire.”

“But don’t you ever feel like you ever want to, you know… go back?” Fashion Plate asked.

“I do! All the time!” Sassy said.

“I’m going to give you this offer.” Fashion Plate said. “It’s not about going to the top. It’s about showing off your designs. Perhaps you can use your modeling career to help out your friend. Rarity, is it?”

“Well… if I were to be a model and showed off some of Rarity’s designs, it might help for her business.” Sassy thought.

“So what do you say, Miss Saddles? You want to take my offer?” Fashion Plate asked.

“Well I’ll be a needle pulling thread!” Sassy said excitedly. “I’ll have to talk to Rarity about this first, but if she accepts, I totally will!”

“Excellent, excellent! I can see you becoming a star again!” Fashion Plate said excitedly.

“Umm, and Rarity’s dresses, right?” she reminded him.

“Oh sure, yeah, and that too.” Fashion Plate said. Sassy was pretty excited to her new opportunity that she couldn’t wait to tell Rarity the next day on what she has in stock.

The next day came, and Rarity was working on copies of peacock dress. She wipes the sweat from her forehead as she hears the bell at the front door ring. Rarity walks out and sees Sassy running in, looking pretty excited. “Ah there you are, Sassy!” Rarity said. “You’re running a little late today, dear.”

“Sorry, Rarity, but I couldn’t sleep! I have fantastic news to share to you!” Sassy said as she held onto Rarity and jumped around in a circle.

“Whoa, whoa! It must be a very big deal for you to be this excited!” Rarity said.

“Oh it is the best news!” Sassy said.

“Well, Sassy? I’m all ears.” Rarity said.

“Ok, well let’s start from the beginning.” Sassy started. “About a decade ago before I started working at the- I’m sorry, Rarity!” She giggled. “I just want to get straight the point so badly, but… no, no I have to tell you this first.”

Rarity giggles and says, “Well, you’re only stopping yourself from telling me, darling.”

“Ok.” Sassy takes some deep breaths. “Ok, I’m good. So, about a decade ago, before I started working at the boutiques, I…” She clears her throat. “I was into modeling.”

“No doubt! You look like the modeling type.” Rarity observes her and whistles. “Fascinating!”

“So you knew?” Sassy asked.

“Oh not at all, darling!” Rarity said. “When I read your résumé I only read the work you put into the boutiques. I didn’t get that far, I’m afraid. Well, that’s what I get for jumping to conclusions. So why are you telling me this now?”

“Well, Fashion Plate came to my house last night.” Sassy explained. “We were talking.”

“Oh?” Rarity asked.

“Oh yes!” Sassy said. “He’s been watching me throughout most of my modeling career. Even when I became Miss Equestria!”

“Wait… time out for a second.” Rarity stopped her. “I’m starting to remember now! When I watched the Miss Equestria pageant, there was a Sassy Saddles that won the title. It was… a decade ago. Back before I even opened my Ponyville boutique. That was you?!”

“So I guess you knew me before you even met me, huh Rarity?” Sassy asked as she love-taps her shoulder.

“Wow!” Rarity said surprisingly. “I knew there was something about you that made me want to hire you on the spot! I just couldn’t put my hoof on it. Wow! I can’t believe my employee was actually one of the Miss Equestrias!”

“Surprise, surprise!” Sassy said.

“Oh, darling! I’m so proud of you!” Rarity said. “So, did you get to the point yet on why Fashion Plate visited you?”

“Oh right.” Sassy remembered. “He was offering me a business opportunity.”

“What kind of business opportunity?” Rarity asked.

“Heh, what a conscience!” Sassy chuckled. “I said the exact same thing!”

“Great minds think alike!” Rarity said.

“So, the business opportunity he has in store for me involves me modeling for his magazines.” Sassy said.

“Well that’s nice!” Rarity said. “I’m sure you’ll do great! But working two jobs. Is that going to be a little too much for you?”

“Of course not!” Sassy said. “All I have to do is smile and pose while wearing your dresses. I mean, I told him I’d only model if it involved wearing your dresses.”

“Ah, a little bit of sponsoring I see! You indeed know your way around contracts, Sassy! I like that about you!” Rarity said. “So when’s your first skirt?”

“Today actually, this afternoon at 2.” Sassy said.

“Well, I believe you’re going to do fabulous!” Rarity said.

“Are you sure, Rarity? Because… I’m feeling a little nervous.” Sassy said as she started shaking.

‘Oh c’mon, dear! You were just well not too long ago.” Rarity said.

“I know I was, but… I have mixed feelings for this.” Sassy shudders (I just learned that word ‘shudders’ recently).

“Sassy, look at me.” Rarity started as she places her hooves on Sassy’s shoulder. “Just do whatever your heart takes you to. Your dream is your dream. It was my dream to open a boutique in Ponyville, and then it was my dream to open an expansion in Canterlot, and they both came true through hard work and patience. It might be hard work to get over your mixed feelings, but it’ll all be worth it in the end. I assure you.”

Sassy smiles. “Thanks, Rarity!”

“And hey you’re sponsoring my shop in the process, so why not?” Rarity teased and they both laughed.

Later that day, both Rarity and Sassy went over to the Cosmare hangout at the Canterlot Gardens. Everypony was getting ready for shooting. Certain fashion celebrities like Hoity Toity, Photo Finish, and Prim Hemline were also there, chatting as they waited for the star to appear. Other Canterlot ponies were there as well, including Fancy Pants and Fleur Dis Lee, and even Jet Set and Upper Crust. Sassy was just getting her make-up on by one of Fashion Plate’s employees.

“So, Sassy? Are you ready for this?” Rarity asked.

“I sure am, Rarity!” Sassy said. “Thank you so much for coming with me! It’ll really give me confidence to know I have a friend with me.”

“Oh like you even need me!” Rarity said. “It’s nothing you never did before. You should be professional at this by now.”

“I know, but it’s been years.” Sassy said nervously.

“Sassy Saddles! So glad of you to accept my offer!” Fashion Plate said excitedly.

“The pleasure is all mine, Fashion Plate!” Sassy said.

“You’ll be up in just under a minute. Let’s make music here ponies!” Fashion Plate called out.

“Well… this is it.” Sassy said.

“Break a leg, Sassy!” Rarity said.

“But, Rarity, this isn’t theater.” Sassy reminded her.

“In that case, break an elbow, or whatever bone you break when it comes to modeling.” Rarity teased. Sassy chuckled as she get up from her seat while wearing the peacock dress, and she walks over on stage so they can start shooting.

She starts to pose for the camera while wearing the dress. After twelve photos with seven different poses, Fashion begins to cheer in glee, and everypony watching was wooing impressively. “Marvelous! Simply marvelous!” Fashion Plate said excitedly. “Miss Saddles you certainly have never lost your touch! You still have the magic within you!”

Sassy giggles and blushes and says, “Thank you!”

“Oh he is right, my dear!” Rarity said. “It was a very wise choice for you to return to modeling for a day!”

“For a day? My word, I have so much more use to you and your unique looks!” Fashion Plate said to Sassy. “You must model for me again! You’ll become a big star!”

“You really think so?” Sassy asked happily.

“I know so, my dear! The next issue will be about in approximately two in a half weeks. You’ll be making the cover, my dear! Mwah!” he explained.

“I can’t wait!” Sassy said excitedly.

“Neither can I!” Rarity agreed.

Two in a half weeks later, back in Ponyville, Twilight, Pinkie, AppleJack, Fluttershy, Rainbow, and Starlight were hanging out at Carousel Boutique, helping Rarity fill out a big order. Once the pony gets the order she wants, she leaves the boutique while carrying a bunch of bags and plastic-covered dresses with her magic. “Thanks for coming!” Pinkie waved. “Don’t forget to give us five stars! Not actual stars though, because they’re too bright! One star is good enough for this planet!”

“Phew! Glad that’s over!” Rainbow wiped her sweat in relief. “I thought we’d never get finished with that!”

“Yeah, for real!” AppleJack agreed. “Some ponies are too demanding for their good it would seem.”

“At least you have another satisfied customer, Rarity!” Fluttershy said.

“Thank you so much girls for helping me fill this big order.” Rarity said. “I know it was all last second, but I really didn’t think I’d get this one done on time.”

“Well we’re always glad to help out a friend in her time of need!” Starlight said.

“I couldn’ve said it better myself, Starlight!” Twilight said. “Good job!”

“I’m learning from the best of the best!” Starlight said. Twilight smiles.

“So is there anything else you need help with, Rarity?” Twilight asked.

“No I’m good for today, thank you, Twilight!” Rarity said. “But I do want you all stick around and wait for the mail pony to come.”

“What’s going on, Rarity? Expecting something really good?” Twilight asked.

“I too am waiting for the mail pony!” Pinkie said.

“Oh? What are you getting?” Fluttershy asked.

“A new backscratcher!” Pinkie said.

“Oh, that sounds nice!” Fluttershy said.

“And how are you supposed to use it, Pinkie?” Rainbow asked. “Are your arms that flexible, and how are you supposed to attach your hooves onto it? Your friends could scratch your back for you.”

“I have my ways!” Pinkie said.

“How about you, Rarity? What are you expectin’ in the mail?” AppleJack asked.

“Well, remember when I said two in a half weeks ago, I visited Sassy Saddles over at Canterlot, and she just got back into modeling?” Rarity asked. “Well, we’re expecting-“

“YES!” Pinkie interrupted.

“Excuse me, Pinkie?” Rarity asked.

“You didn’t let us answer your question.” Pinkie informed her. “Yes we do remember. Or at least I do. Do you, Dashie?”

“Barely.” Rainbow said.

“Well, as I was saying, today’s the day the magazine gets released, and we’re expecting our copies to come in pretty soon.” Rarity said.

“Well that’s very interestin’, Rarity!” AppleJack said. “Ah’m really proud of you to have an employee like Sassy Saddles to go back into modelin’ in an effort to sponsor your business.”

“Oh I know, AppleJack! I’m so excited!” Rarity started to freak out in excitement. “Wow! I’m starting to get goosebumps right now!”

“RARITY’S GETTING SICK?!” Pinkie freaked out as she puts on a biosuit and takes out a defibrillator. “CLEAR!”

“PINKIE NO!” Rainbow yelled as she and AppleJack held her back.

“It’s just an expression, Pinkie.” Twilight informed her.

“Wow, that nearly gave me a heart attack.” Rarity said feeling pretty surprised at what Pinkie did.

“CLEAR!” Pinkie yelled.

“IT’S A FIGURE OF SPEECH, PINKIE!” everypony corrected her.

“Oh I knew that!” Pinkie said. Just then, the front door opens and the mail pony walks inside with a package.

“Package delivery for a Miss Rarity.” He said.

“Oh thank you!” Rarity said excitedly as she signs his clipboard and takes the package. “I knew it was only a matter of time! This is going to be so exciting!”

“I also have a package for Pinkie Pie.” the mail pony said with an extra package.

“Ooo my back scratcher!” Pinkie said excitedly as she takes her package. “And it only cost me 45 cereal box tops!”

“Ah there she is!” Rarity said excitedly as she shows everypony the cover of magazine.

“Woooow!” everypony said once they looked at the cover.

“She’s really beautiful in that picture, Rarity!” Fluttershy said.

“Oh she does!” Rarity agreed.

“This certainly wasn’t the first time a friend of hers was on the cover of a magazine, huh Fluttershy?” AppleJack reminded her as Fluttershy blushed.

Rarity immediately opens the magazine and starts to read it with a big grin on her face, but, like we all expected, Rarity’s grin goes away. “Huh? This isn’t right.”

“What’s wrong, Rarity?” Starlight asked.

“Nothing on here mentions anything about my business.” Rarity said. “Everything on here just mentions Sassy and the dress, but I don’t see my business anywhere.”

“Really? Let me see it.” Starlight said as she takes the magazine and takes a look at it. “Huh, you’re right. What a bunch of backstabbers!”

“Well I wouldn’t say that, Starlight.” Rarity said as she takes the magazine back. “But I do feel ripped off by this.”

“You think Sassy didn’t tell them about your business?” Fluttershy asked.

“HEAVENS NO!” Rarity yelled and scared Fluttershy. “Sassy is a very loyal employee! She got into modeling just to help sponsor Carousel Boutique and Canterlot Carousel.”

“Are you sure about that, Rarity?” Starlight asked.

“Of course I’m sure!” Rarity said.

“Do you think she just got back into modeling just so she can live her dream and leave you in the dust?” Starlight asked.

“Starlight!” Twilight yelled.

“What? It’s true!” Starlight said.

“I wouldn’t say that.” Twilight said. “Sassy Saddles has been a loyal employee to Rarity, and she’s only doing what she thinks is best for her company. She always has. Right, Rarity?”

“Huh? Oh yes, Twilight. Of course! I would never doubt her for a second.” Rarity said with confidence.

“See that, Starlight?” Twilight asked. “Rarity knows how loyal Sassy Saddles is.” Rarity started to feel a little nervous.

“Perhaps I should go up to Canterlot to check up on her, just in case.” Rarity thought.

“Are you sure you want to do that?” AppleJack asked.

“Yeah, I thought you said you trusted her completely?” Rainbow asked.

“I do! I just… think it’s a good idea if I checked up on her.” Rarity said.

“Well… if you really want to be sure, we should come with you, just in case.” Twilight suggested.

“Yeah, just in case she needs to be taught a lesson!” Rainbow said mischievously as she bumps her hooves together.

Twilight glares at Rainbow as she says, “But it won’t come to that.”

“I sure hope not, Twilight. I sure hope not.” Rarity said.

So the Mane 7 take a train over to Canterlot to check up on Sassy at the Canterlot boutique. Sassy was at the boutique wearing one of Rarity’s dresses as she hums and poses as she worked. When she uses her magic to carry some fabric across the store and passes a mirror, she reverses back to the mirror and poses to it. “Ooo, Sassy, you look good and everypony knows it!”

Just as she was posing in the mirror, Rarity and her friends walked into the store. “As good as you look, Sassy, it’s never worth bragging about.”

“Rarity!” Sassy said excitedly. “What a pleasant surprise to see you, and your friends too! What’s the occasion?”

“BACKSCRATCHER!” Pinkie yelled as she held the backscratcher in the air.

“Also we think you have something to hide.” Rainbow said.

“Me? Something to hide?” Sassy asked. “Why, what do I have that’s worth hiding? Especially to Rarity of all ponies.”

“I was reading the Cosmare magazine. It got delivered to me today.” Rarity said.

“Oh yeah me too!” Sassy said as she shows Rarity her magazine. “Don’t I look smashing in this?”

“Oh you’re smashing alright.” Starlight said sarcastically.

“Yes, you look great, Sassy.” Rarity said.

“Umm… you don’t sound that pleased.” Sassy said. “Is something wrong?”

“Well… yeah.” Rarity said. “The magazine mentioned nothing of my shop.”

“Wait, really?” Sassy asked. “Huh… perhaps they forgotten, because I told them.”

“Really?” Rarity asked curiously.

“Rarity, my dear, you do know I’m there for your company, right?” Sassy asked. Rarity raises one of her eyebrows as she looked at her.

“Something tells me this pony is saying a load of bologna!” Rainbow said.

“Oh stop making up words, Dashie!” Pinkie instructed her. “Bologna. What kind of word is that?”

“Are you sure you’re tellin’ the truth, Miss Saddles?” AppleJack asked. “Because ah know when someone’s a-lyin’.”

Twilight sighs and says, “You might as well get it off your chest. It’ll certainly help you feel better.”

Sassy starts to get nervous, but then she sighs and says, “Ok, you got me, but I’m not lying. I told Fashion Plate to sponsor your business. Honest and truly, Rarity!”

“But…” Rarity started for her.

“I begged him to keep your sponsor on the magazine. I’m being 100% sincere to you, Rarity!” Sassy said nervously.

“Sassy… please tell me the whole truth.” Rarity asked calmly.

“I… I…” she stutters. “I made a deal with Fashion Plate. He says… he says he doesn’t like this boutique because it’s… how you say… made dresses from a pony from Ponyville.”

Rarity was shocked to hear that. “Well… that’s certainly rude. But I know how these high-class ponies feel about ponies from a small town like Ponyville, and as I do respect his opinion, I cannot accept the fact he would avoid sponsoring this shop for it. Does he not know that he can gain a lot of money for sponsoring my shop? I’d pay for it.”

“I told him that.” Sassy said.

“He won’t accept my money, will he?” Rarity asked.

“No he’d accept it.” Sassy said. “But he wants… 1,500 bits for the sponsoring.”

“1,500 BITS?!” Rarity cried.

“Per month.” Sassy added.

“Well this changes everything!” Rarity said angrily. “Fashion Plate is nothing but a big cheapskate! He doesn’t care about fashion! He’s only in it for the money!”

“And I agree!” Sassy said.

“Wait… what?” AppleJack asked.

“Wow, I expected more of an argument there.” Rainbow said.

“You agree?” Rarity asked.

“Yes I do.” Sassy said. “I threatened to quit on him and star in any of his magazines ever again. He even offered me a big bonus, but I still declined. There’s more to life than money, Rarity.”

“Well that’s very thoughtful of you, Sassy.” Twilight smiled. “I know a lot of big ponies out there are using everything they can to gain more money and greed, but I’m glad you know better than to quit on him.”

“You didn’t let me finish.” Sassy corrected her. “He eventually gave me an offer I couldn’t refuse. He would give me a spot in the next Miss Equestria pageant if I cooperated with him for one more month.”

“And you accepted it?” Rarity asked.

“Not yet.” Sassy said.

“Then what’s stopping you?” Rarity asked.

“You, Rarity. You.” Sassy said.

“Who am I to stop you from achieving your dream?” Rarity asked. “Is this what you really want? You really want to be the next Miss Equestria again?”

“So badly!” Sassy said. “I know this is hard for you, but… that would also mean I’d be forced to quit working for you. It’s the only way he’d offer me this.”

“Well… I’ve never been so insulted in my life!” Rarity said angrily. “That fool Fashion Plate! Well, if he hates my store so much, he is officially banned from it! Both of them, and all other expansions that I soon may have in the future!”

“So… that’s it then.” Sassy said upsettingly. “I guess I won’t do it. If you hate Fashion Plate that much, then I’ll decline his offer in being in the next Miss Equestria pageant.”

“Good!” Starlight said.

“No, hang on!” Rarity said as she walks over to Sassy. “Sassy, right now, I am so angry at Fashion Plate. So angry that he doesn’t deserve brilliant ponies like yourself, but if it’s the only way to achieve your dream of being Miss Equestria again… I won’t be in your way.” She smiles. “I’ll accept any path you take.”

“Why, Rarity? Why would you do that?” Sassy asked.

“Because you’re not just an employee, Sassy.” Rarity said. “You’re also my friend. We share very common perspectives, and I like that about you. What kind of friend would I be if I didn’t let you go out and make your wishes come true? Even if it is with somepony like… ugh, Fashion Plate!”

Sassy smiles with tears in her eyes. She then gives Rarity a big hug. “I’m giving you my two week notice.”

“No need.” Rarity said as she started to get teary eyed too, and she doesn’t hug back. “But… I think its best… if you just go.”

Sassy gasped and immediately backed away. “Rarity?”

“JUST… go.” Rarity ordered her as she looked away. “Go… get your things, and just go.” Sassy didn’t say anything, she just used her magic to get whatever things she owns, and then she sadly walks over to the exit and walks out.

“Wow… I can’t believe you just did that.” Fluttershy said surprisingly.

“Ah can’t either.” AppleJack said.

“Rarity, I’m so sorry.” Twilight said.

Rarity takes a deep breath and says, “So am I.” She then calmly walks over to her drawing board, puts on her glasses, and starts drawing another dress design.

“Well I’m not sorry.” Starlight said. Everypony gasped.

“Starlight! How can you say something like that?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, even I know that’s not cool.” Rainbow said.

“Well, that’s just how I feel. I’m not sorry.” Starlight said.

“Well… you don’t have to be.” Rarity said as she started to draw aggressively. “I’m better off without that TRECEROUS… BACKSTABBING…” That was when her pencil breaks. “UGH!” She then slams her head on her drawing board.

“Exactly.” Starlight said as she walks over to Rarity to comfort her. “Don’t be sorry for Sassy. If she doesn’t want to work with you anymore and work for that sell out of a magazine writer, then it’s her loss that she’s not working with the best fashion designer of all of Equestria. You don’t need her!”

Rarity lifted her glasses and wiped her eyes with her hooves, and then she smiled and turned around towards her. “Starlight Glimmer… you are absolutely right! I don’t need her!”

“Yeah! You’re better off managing two boutiques by yourself!” AppleJack said. That’s when Rarity started to get upset again. “Oh woops. Heh. Mah bad.” AppleJack blushed in embarrassment.

“Perhaps we can go back to Ponyville and look after your shop there while you manage here until you find a new manager.” Twilight suggested.

“Oh would you girls do that? I’d really appreciate it.” Rarity said.

“It’s no trouble at all, Rarity!” Fluttershy said.

“Then I’m leaving you in charge, Fluttershy.” Rarity said.

“HEEEEY!” Pinkie whined. “She was the first one to talk and she automatically becomes in charge?”

“No because she’s good at sewing.” Rarity corrected her.

“I agree. I’m ok with that!” Twilight said.

“Woo! Go Fluttershy!” Rainbow cheered.

“You deserve it, sugarcube!” AppleJack said.

Fluttershy started to blush. “Well gosh, I… I don’t know what to say.”

“Well we better head back to Ponyville before we’re missed. We have a shop to look after.” AppleJack said.

“If you need us at all, just let us know, and we’ll be right back here before you know it.” Twilight said.

“I strongly appreciate that, Twilight. Thank you!” Rarity said. “Now Rarity must not rest, for she has a new design to make!”

“And what might that be?” Fluttershy asked.

“The Fashion Hate.” Rarity said.

“Oh… sorry I asked.” Fluttershy said.

“It’s not the final name.” Rarity said. “It was the best one I can come up with.”

“Ooo! How about Fashion Waste?” Pinkie suggested.

“Ooo good one!” Rarity said.

“Not helping.” Rainbow said as she pulls Pinkie by the tail and drags her out of the shop and everypony else followed. Starlight stopped and looked back at Rarity as she continued to draw, and then she followed the others out leaving Rarity alone in her boutique.

Rarity was sighing to herself as she continues to draw on her board. As she drew she started to sing a calm tune, because she obviously doesn’t have enough solos. “Never let go… of your dreams. They are there for a reasoooon. Don’t let anypony get in your way, because that’s a price to pay – don’t ever think that it is… treason.” Rarity finishes drawing, and she rips it off of the board with her magic and begins to walk as she started to have flashbacks of the good times she had with Sassy as a manager. “Never let go… of your dreams. Your dreams may mark your destinyyyyy. None is too big or too small, you can really have it all – perhaps it’s truly how it’s meant to be.” She hangs the drawing on her billboard on her office and the drawing was actually a picture of Sassy up on a stage with a sparkly dress and a Miss Equestria banner around her.

The drawing suddenly changes to an actual photo of a younger Sassy as Miss Equestria. Sassy takes one final look of the photo before she puts it on the table. She then looks through her dresses on which ones she should use for the next Cosmare meet, as she starts to sing, “Should I let go… of my dreams? I left a friend for my own selfish neeeeeeds. I left my career behind, I threw away what was mine – how do I know if I made the right deeds? Rarity says I should not let go of my dreams, but this sacrifice really riiiiiiiight? I have had a choice to make, and my friendship I did break – is my dream going to fulfill my deliiiight.”

Back at the boutique, Starlight opens the door, walks inside, and says, “Rarity I forgot my-“ But then, Starlight just noticed Rarity singing, but Rarity didn’t even notice her.

“Perhaps it is all that it’s meant to be.” Rarity sang.

“I know I have you… watching over meeee-eee.” Sassy sang.

“I won’t peg… and I won’t plea.” Rarity sang.

“But I don’t feel like jumping up with glee.” Sassy sang.

“Oh should you! Oh should you, oh should yooou… let go of your dreeeeams! Let go of your dreams!” Rarity sang with energy.

“Oh should I! Oh should I, oh should Iiiiiii, let go… of my dreeeeeaaams! Oh should I?” Sassy sang. “Is this… really riiiiight? I’m reaching for the stars, but no, it is not ours. My mind is… oh my mind is… my mind is putting up a fiiiiiiii-i-i-i-iiiight!”

“Oh should you let go? Should you?” Rarity sang as she started to sing softer and remove her glasses. “No… no, no. Never let go… of… your… dreeeeeeeeeeeeams.” Rarity lays her head on her desk, with no lights on in the boutique other than the desk light shining over her head. Starlight watches the whole time feeling bad for her. She didn’t want to stand by on what she just witnessed.

“You may be ok with this, Rarity. But I’m not.” Starlight said angrily. “I will get you your employee back! You’ll see!” She starts to back away slowly and back out the door, and she closes it behind her. Just then she opens it again and walks back in. “I forgot the main reason why I was here. I left my… umm… meh, I’ll come back for it.” She then walks out again and shuts the door.

A few days went by, and over at the Canterlot Theater, hundreds, maybe thousands of ponies were arriving over there for the next Miss Equestria pagent. Ponies from all over Equestria were being gathered inside to take their seats. It was so full in there that every ticket was sold out. Every seat was taken. Inside the theater, Sassy Saddles was getting her make-up on, and Fashion Plate was there speaking to her.

“Ooooh! I am so proud of you, Miss Saddles!” Fashion Plate said excitedly. “I knew you would make the right choice in staying with me!”

“Well… it’s only to achieve my dreams.” Sassy said with a fake smile.

“Ah, those snapshots of you – it’s like printing my own money!” Fashion Plate said.

“If you say so.” Sassy said.

“Make me proud, S.S.! You’re going to the top!” Fashion Plate said as he leaves the dressing room. Just then, three mares walk into the dressing room. The lead one, who is emerald colored, much like Disgust from Inside Out, is a pegasus, and has a ponytail mane and a cutie mark of a gold medal says to her two friends, “…and that’s when I finally got my ear rings not to fall off. Super glue the back! Even though, it like, totally messes with my hair, so I gotta be super careful.” Her friends agreed with her, and right after, the green mare notices Sassy in front of her. “Sassy? Sassy Saddles, is that you?”

Sassy gasps as she turns around and notices the pony. “Vogue Velvet?”

“Sassy! It’s been ages, girl!” Vogue said. “What are you doing here?”

“You know her?” one of Vogue’s friends asked her. The one that asked her was a pony named Tropical Dream, the one unicorn that resembles Adagio Dazzle that appeared on Princess Spike. The third pony was Cayenne, that one fashion pony from the Canterlot Boutique episode with the two red peppers for a cutie mark.

“Yes! This is Sassy Saddles!” Vogue said excitedly. “We went into modeling together!”

“Well, I’ll be a quill on a cat!” Sassy said excitedly. “We had so much fun modeling together!”

“Yes…” Vogue said as her mood starts to damper. “…until of course you got chosen to compete in Miss Equestria, and… after all that we did together, they didn’t allow me to go.”

“Oh I know! I wish there was some way for us to do it together.” Sassy said.

Vogue turns around jealously and says, “Well… like the manager said, only one can go on.”

“But… you’re here now, right?” Sassy asked happily.

“YES!” Vogue turns back at her and yells at her angrily. “But I worked hard to get this far! And here you are again after a couple of issues for Cosmare Magazine! Why do you always take the easy way? Why do you have to look so much better than any of us?!”

Sassy started to get nervous and started to feel bad. “Well… I… I don’t mean to-“

“Yeah whatever.” Vogue said. “Just watch your step, Saddles! You were already Miss Equestria once! I think it’s time you let somepony else handle it. C’mon girls.” They all walk away, but not before Cayenne sticks her tongue out at Sassy. Sassy started to feel bad.

“I don’t know. Maybe I shouldn’t do this.” Sassy said sadly.

Just then, Sassy started to get a flashback of Rarity saying to her, “Sassy, look at me. Just do whatever your heart takes you to. Your dream is your dream. It might be hard work to get over your mixed feelings, but it’ll all be worth it in the end.”

Sassy takes a deep breath and says with confidence, “Rarity’s right! I have to do this – for her, and for my dreams!”

Just then, the show was just about to start. The announcer says, “Fillies and gnetlecolts – welcome to the 87th annual Miss Equestria pageant!” The audience cheers. “Now please welcome your host – Prim Hemline!” As Vinyl Scratch plays some upbeat fashion music on her DJ station, Prim Hemline walks onto stage and begins to announce the pageant.

“Thank you, thank you! It is so wonderful to see you all here for the pageant!” Prim said. “It is such an honor to host this year! I hope I do much better than Photo Finish was last year!” The entire audience laughs.

“Oh boooooo!” Photo Finish called out from the audience. “Get off zah stage!”

“Now, without further ado, let us get started with the Miss Equestria pageant!” Prim said. “We have a ton of fabulous rounds to show to you! First off, we have talent!”

We fast-forward through the contest showing the different talents the contestants show off during the round. Sassy Saddles shows off her dress making skills, Vogue shows off her knife throwing skills, one of the other contestants show off their unicycle skills while saying tongue twisters, and there was even a mare lifting weights who struggled as she lifted a pole with marshmallows on both sides. “And the winner of the talent contest…” Prim started as she was given a piece of paper from the judges and she reads it. “…Vogue Velvet, with her impressive knife throwing skills!” The audience cheers as Vogue bows to the audience.

“Good job, Vogue!” Sassy said happily to her.

“I thought I told you not to talk to me?” Vogue reminded her. Sassy sighs upsettingly.

“Now for the next round – we have the hairdress contest.” Prim continued. “Our models are going to show off their unique mane styles, and the winner of this contest will compete against Vogue, one on one, for the next round.”

Over in the audience, Starlight walks inside and down the aisle while drinking soda out of a cup. That was when she saw Rarity in one of the rows, watching. “Rarity?” Starlight asked surprisingly.

“Starlight, dear? What are you doing here?” Rarity asked.
“I came to see Sassy.” Starlight said.

“Oh me too!” Rarity said. “It is swell for you to come! I saved an extra seat here. You want?”

“Sure, I want.” Starlight said as she walks down the section and sits down with her. “Why did you come? I thought you were upset with Sassy?”

“I am, but that does not mean I don’t want to be here to root for her.” Rarity said. “She’ll need all the luck she could get.”

“But don’t you feel anger within you, Rarity?” Starlight asked. “Sassy Saddles, your employee, she left you to fulfill her dreams.”

“And I will not stand in her way.” Rarity said.

“But don’t you miss her?” Starlight asked.

“Of course I miss her, darling.” Rarity said. “I miss her, and… I need her. Canterlot Carousel hasn’t been the same without her. Not only was she a good employee – she was a good friend. I’ll never find somepony as unique and fascinating as her. Oh do I wish to have her back. But… this is what she wants, and…” She starts to tear up. “I’m sorry, Starlight. I wish to change the subject, if you don’t mind.”

“It’s ok, Rarity.” Starlight comforts her. “I know how much you want her back, and I know this conversation bothers you. I won’t bring it up again.”

“I do very much appreciate it.” Rarity smiles.

“Now, please excuse me for a minute, Rarity.” Starlight said as she stands up. “I need to use the little filly’s room. I’ll be back momentarily.”

“Take your time! I’ll save this seat for you.” Rarity offered. Starlight walks out of the isle, and she takes one more look back at Rarity and sees how sad she is. Starlight knew what she needed to do.

Back up on stage, Prim was discussing the winner of that round. “And the winner of the hairdressing contest…” She opens the envelope and reads it. “…Sassy Saddles!”

“Well I’ll be a snake scale on silk!” Sassy said excitedly.

“Grrrr!” Vogue growled at her. “You always have to be better than everypony, Sassy! You’ve always been number one in our old modeling community! Why do you have to look so good all the time?! Let other ponies get attention for a change!” Vogue angrily walks away to prepare for the final round.

Sassy sighs as she walks back stage so she herself can prepare for the final round. When Sassy upsettingly walks back stage, she sees an empty soda cup rolling across the floor. “Huh?” she asked.

She curiously walked deeper back stage and observed to see if there was anything out of the ordinary. “So… this is what you wanted, huh? To be a big winner?” a voice from the shadows asked.

“Huh?” Sassy asked.

“Well, if I was you, I wouldn’t abandon a friend just to live a dream. I’d find a way to improvise.” Starlight said as she reveals herself from the shadows.

“Starlight Glimmer?” Sassy asked curiously. “How did you get back here?”

“I know my way around guards.” Starlight said.

Meanwhile at the back door to backstage, the bouncer was thinking to himself. “Hmm, what is a face with no eyes? Umm… A CLOCK!” he snapped his hooves and yelled out. He then looked around, and he realized what just happened. “Hey, I’ve been had!” he complained.

Back with Sassy and Starlight, Sassy said, “Hmm… figures, but what are you doing here? Is… is Rarity and the others here too? No… I doubt it.”

“Oh Rarity is here.” Starlight said.

“She is?!” Sassy asked surprisingly. “But… but why? I left her alone back at the boutique. I abandoned her. Why would she want to see me?”

“Because no matter what, Rarity will always care about you.” Starlight said. “You’re her friend. That’s the only reason she let you do this.”

“How is she?” Sassy asked.

“Devastated.” Starlight said.

“Of course she is.” Sassy said upsettingly. “I shouldn’ve done this. I made a terrible mistake. Rarity trusted me. Rarity believed in me, and I left her alone. I have to… no… she won’t accept me back.”

“Yes she will.” Starlight said. “You just have to try. I mean, unless this contest really meant that much to you.”

“Ooooh.” Sassy shuddered. “To be honest, Starlight, I forgotten the main reason I stopped modeling.”

“Oh yeah?” Starlight asked.

“Yes. I forgot how jealous I made other ponies.” Sassy said. “I was number one when it came to my modeling career. This mare, Vogue Velvet, she used to be my best friend. We did modeling together, until I was asked to go on Miss Equestria years back. She got jealous and stopped talking to me. I realized a lot of my other friends got jealous too. My modeling career cost me my friendships. Now it’s happening all over again!”

“Perhaps it is time to do the right thing.” Starlight suggested. “Sassy, I know this has been your dream, but… out of all my time having real friends for the first time in years, I know I’d do anything not to lose them.”

“So… I should quit modeling?” Sassy asked.

“No, of course not!” Starlight said. “But do you need to be Miss Equestria again? Do you want some phony to tell you what to do, or how to live your life? There will be other contracts in the future, from ponies that treat fashion as a hobby, and not a way to make money.”

Sassy smiles. “You’re right, Starlight. I was already Miss Equestria once. I think it’s time for Vogue to have the victory she deserves!”

“So you’re going to disqualify yourself?” Starlight asked.

“Even better!” Sassy said. “I’m going to make sure Fashion Plate doesn’t want me to be his model anymore, and I know just the way to do it!” She smirks.

The crowd cheers as Prim returns to stage she announces the final round. “And now, for the moment we’ve all been waiting for – the dress round! Our remaining two constants are going to show off their best dresses. First up we have Vague Velvet with her sapphire wing dress!”

Vinyl Scratch starts paying some techno pop as the curtains open with Vague in the shadows. The shadow shines some sparkling reflections onto the audience, and the audience woos in amazement. Vague starts to walk out onto stage and shows off her sapphire dress to the audience. But wait, it gets better! She expands her wings revealing jewels on them, which brings the wings onto ‘sapphire wings’. The jewels on her wings reflect onto the jewels on her dress which reflects lights throughout the whole room like a disco. The audience cheers for her as the curtain drops.

“Phenomenal! Absolutely phenomenal!” Prim said excitedly. “It’s going to be pretty tough for Sassy Saddles to beat her! Can she do it? Well let us find out!”

“Well, this is it.” Sassy said from backstage.

“Are you sure you want to do this?” Starlight asked. “Ponies may not look at you the same again.”

“I don’t want to take any chances of winning. Bring me on stage!” Sassy demanded.

“And finally, we now have Sassy Saddles with her dress. The…” Prim said as she reads the card and makes sure she’s saying it right. “Umm… the dirty dumpster?” The crowd got curious, but curiosity gets the best of them as they watched the curtain rise as Vinyl plays defeat music on her DJ system since that’s what Sassy requested.

Sassy was pretty much wearing nothing but a trash bag around her, with the holes snipped out for her front hooves. The audience was in silence as Sassy smiles, and that smile was indeed not fake. “Woo hoo!” Rarity cheered in the background. “You know your fashion Sassy Saddles! Classic! Simply classic!”

“I agree.” Hoity Toity said. “This outfit is the most original I’ve ever seen in a Miss Equestria pageant.”

“Iz plain, but zat’s what makes zit good!” Photo Finish said. Just then, the entire audience (including the judges) began to cheer for Sassy. Sassy was surprised, big time. “No, no, no!” she cried.

“Wow! Truly unexpecting!” Prim said. “It’s going to take the judges a lot of deep thinking to announce the winner!”

Sassy returns backstage with Starlight and says, “I don’t understand! How can the audience like this garbage I’m wearing? Literary!”

“Yeah, I did not see that coming.” Starlight said. “But then again, these Canterlot ponies are the dumbest ponies ever!”

“It’s probably after Hoity Toity and Photo Finish gave their opinions.” Sassy assumed. “Ponies would do anything to agree with celebrities. Oh, Starlight! What am I going to do?”

“Nothing.” Starlight said. “The contest isn’t over yet. The judges are giving their opinions now, and I’m pretty sure they’ll be going for your opponent.”

“Well for Rarity’s sake, and for Vague’s, I hope you’re right.” Sassy said.

“Well I believe we officially made up our minds.” One of the judges said to Prim back on stage as he gives Prim the paper showing their choice.

“And now – it is time to announce the winner of this year’s Miss Equestria pageant!” Prim said as Sassy and Vague went back up on stage.

“I hope it’s you, Vague.” Sassy whispered.

“I know.” Vague whispered back as she smiled at her.

“You noticed the trash bag gig, huh?” Sassy asked embarrassingly.

“Nah, I thought everything you wore you looked like trash bags.” Vague teased playfully. They both chuckled.

“And the winner is…” Prim continued.

One paragraph pause for affect…

“Even if I don’t win, thank you for at least trying.” Vague whispered to Sassy. “I know now you never meant to outshine yourself.”

“I want to look good, but I’m not trying to steal the spotlight from everypony.” Sassy whispers. “I just want to have fun while looking good. Is that so bad?”

“Vague Velvet!” Prim announced. Vague gasped in amazement. She had a very surprised look on her face. So surprised that she could hardly believe it. Prim walks up to Vague, gives her a bouquet of flowers, she places a crown on her head, and then she puts the Miss Equestria banner around her. Vague had tears in her eyes as she joyfully waves to the audience who cheered loudly for her. Vague gave Sassy a big hug in excitement before Sassy went back backstage.

After a while when Sassy and Starlight left the building, Rarity runs over to them. “Sassy!” Rarity called out. “What happened up there? You were doing so well, dear!”

Sassy shrugs. “I guess ponies are only meant to be Miss Equestria once in a lifetime.” She said as she winks at Starlight.

“Starlight? Ok what’s really happened?” Rarity asked.

“She remembered, Rarity. She remembered.” Starlight said.

“Sassy? What does she mean?” Rarity asked.

“I remembered why I stopped modeling.” Sassy said. “It turns out I made ponies jealous. I couldn’t live with that guilt, so that’s why I took on clothing. And… I also remembered how much you supported me when you took me as your manager at your boutique. I shouldn’ve left you like I did.”

“Oh, but I didn’t want to keep you from your dreams.” Rarity said.

“Rarity… working at your boutique IS my dream.” Sassy said as she smiled. “And I want that dream to come true again.”

“Of course, Sassy! You’re always welcomed back!” Rarity said as she and Sassy hugged.

“I’m so glad you two got to reunite again!” Starlight said.

“Wouldn’ve happened without you, Starlight!” Sassy said. “Thank you for reminding me how much Rarity needed me.”

“Oh I agree completely!” Rarity said. “Twilight is truly teaching you well! I can see a big future for you, Starlight Glimmer!”

Starlight blushes. “I’m only doing what Twilight has taught me.”

“Never let go… of your dreams.” Rarity started singing. “Just fulfill what you want to fulfillllll.”

“Believe what you want to believe, and then you’ll probably see –“ Sassy sang.

Now they both sing together, “How much you can make them all so welllll!” Back at the Canterlot Carousel, Sassy is back working full time for Rarity. Ponies from all over visit the shop, including Photo Finish, Hoity Toity, Prim Hemline, Vinyl, Vague Velvet, the rejected Miss Equestria competitors, and even the rest of Rarity’s friends from Ponyville. Spike looks after the front door letting ponies in, while wearing some cool bouncer sunglasses. When Fashion Plate shows up, that’s when he blocks him from coming in.

Rarity and Sassy continue singing the reprise together as they help out the other ponies around the store. “Just don’t ever let go… it really goes to show – how much your dreams can make you succeed! Your friends can show you the way, and you know it is okay – just don’t everrrrr let goooooooo of your dreeeeeeeeeeeeeeams!”

“Good job, Starlight!” Twilight said as she pats Starlight on the back.

“I learned it all from you, Twilight!” Starlight said as her cutie mark begins to glow a strange glow. The glow on her cutie mark slides down the little toothpaste things on her cutie mark, and then her star pops out a flash from the inside out.

Author's Note

That's right! Sassy Saddles has returned with a chapter featuring her and Rarity! Now I gotta say, I loved how this chapter turned out! It really even taught me a friendship lesson, and I'm the one who wrote this! How is that possible?! I even loved the duet between Sassy and Rarity! Wasn't easy to make still. I didn't know whether to make a song in this chapter or not, but since almost every season has a Rarity single (probably to make sure Kazumi Evans has a fair role in a season), I thought it would be a good idea for Rarity to have her own song, even if it means having a duet with Sassy. Creating Sassy's backstory was really fun! She kinda had the makings of a good model, even though I have no idea if she was actually one in the past.

I also thought to make use of Starlight Glimmer and have her have moments with each of the Mane Six, starting with Rarity of course. I also thought it would be a good idea to have some past characters to return that haven't been on the show in a long time like Hoity Toity and Prim Hemline, or just haven't talked in a long time like Photo Finish. This chapter also gives Fashion Plate an extended role since he didn't do much in Canterlot Boutique, and also give the pony an antagonizing side - the opposite of Rarity: greed. Even though Suri Polomare kinda took the opposite of Rarity role already. Won't hurt to have more.

Apple Family Recipe

One day over at Sweet Apple Acres, Granny Smith opens up her oven, picks up her mitts, and removes the apple pie she baked out of the oven and sets it down on the window. Granny Smith takes one big sniff of her pie and shouts out to AppleJack and Big Mac out in the field, “Yoohoo! Ah believe it’s a good time to take a break, huh?!”

“Woo we!” AppleJack cheered. “Ah can smell that fresh apple pie from a mile away! Doesn’t it smell like heaven, Big Mac?”

“Eeyup!” Big Mac agreed.

“Well c’mon! Let us have some of that delicious pie! Can’t keep it waitin’!” AppleJack said as she and Big Mac walked over to the farmhouse. Just as they were walking, something dark with glowing blue eyes smirks at them from inside the nearby bushes.

AppleJack and Big Mac walked over to the farmhouse, walked inside, and took a seat at the table with Apple Bloom. Granny Smith carries the pie over to the table and Apple Bloom takes a big sniff.

“Mm-mm!” Apple Bloom said. “This pie smells really delicious, Granny Smith!”

“Why thank you, Apple Bloom!” Granny Smith said. “Ah gotta say these old bones aren’t much when it comes to applebuckin’.” She kicks her legs pretending to buck a tree, but her waist snaps afterwards. “Ow! But one thing that’ll never change is Granny Smith’s ol fashion apple pies!” Granny Smith takes out a pie cutter and starts cutting the pie.

“Well ah gotta hand it to ya, Granny Smith! Ah couldn’t imagine a life without these pies!” AppleJack said. “It’s one of the main things that keep Sweet Apple Acres runnin’, not to mention keepin’ us close together as a family!”

“Mm-hm!” Apple Bloom said with a mouth full of pie.

“Eeyup!” Big Mac said also with a mouth full of pie, which made him spit crumbs all over AppleJack’s face. She glares at him as Big Mac chuckles in embarrassment.

“Well one thing’s for sure, ah dunno a single pony who wouldn’t want even a taste of your famous apple pie!” AppleJack said.

“Well ah never met a single pony that never disliked it!” Granny Smith. “It’s made from an old secret recipe.”

“What is the secret recipe?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Now, Apple Bloom, it ain’t called a ‘secret’ recipe for nothin’.” Granny Smith said. “But, ah will tell you one of the main ingredients that makes mah homemade pies so good – love! Each pie is baked with love!” Just then, a strange looking pony peeks in through the window and glares its eyes inside.

Later on, over at the Ponyville marketplace, AppleJack and Big Mac set up the apple stand and open it up, waiting to sell some apple related projects to the town. They watched as Apple Bloom was playing with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. AppleJack sighs as she watches them. “Ah’d give mah right hoof to be a kid again. Wouldn’t you, Big Mac?”

“Nnnope.” Big Mac said.

“Oh that’s right, you’re right hooved.” AppleJack chuckled. “So is everythin’ ready?”

“Eeyup!” Big Mac said.

“Are you kiddin’? Ah’d give all mah limbs to be young again!” Granny Smith said as she joins them.

“Oh hey, Granny!” AppleJack said. “Decided to join us?”

“Well since we were eatin’ pie earlier today, ah just thought it would be nice seein’ seein’ them ponies faces when they smell the scent of mah freshly baked apple pies.” Granny Smith said. “Eeyup! That kinda look never gets old!”

“I agree!” Scootaloo said. “Your pies are super delicious, Granny Smith!”

“Mind if we have some?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Didn’t y’all already have some?” AppleJack asked.

“Now, now, let me handle this, AppleJack.” Granny Smith whispered. She then turned to the crusaders and said, “Of course ya younglings could have some apple pie! Whenever you want!”

“Oh boy!” Sweetie Belle said excitedly.

“I can taste it now!” Scootaloo said.

“Yummy!” Apple Bloom said.

“For 10 bits.” Granny Smith smirks at them.

“Awww.” Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo whined.

“Ooooh! You got me again, Granny!” Apple Bloom laughed.

“I’ve got some bits for some pie!” the mysterious pony from before said as she shows Granny Smith the pile of bits he had. The mysterious pony was a lime green color, had a mane style similar to the equal stallions from Starlight’s equal town, and he had a cutie mark of a question mark.

“Erm, can ah help you with somethin’?” AppleJack asked awkwardly as Big Mac felt a bit uncomfortable looking at him.

“Yes I’d like to buy one of your lovely apple pies.” The pony said. “You know, the ones made of love and all that?”

“Umm…” AppleJack said, not knowing how to comment.

“Well of course, deary!” Granny Smith said with a smile. “Everypony is allowed to have mah apple pies! It wouldn’t be made of love if ah didn’t share them with anypony. Ah’d even share them with Flim and Flam if they wanted any.”

“You would?” AppleJack asked.

“Of course!” Granny Smith admitted. “Ah’d just double the price.”

“I’d pay triple for that pie!” the pony said.

“Uhh, what?” AppleJack asked.

“It’s difficult to find love these days.” The pony said. “If I were to just have one bite of love… it’s… it’s all I ever really wanted.”

“Of course dear!” Granny Smith said. “But your sweet words are worth any kind of money. Ah’ll sell it to you for five bits.”

“Oh… really?” the pony asked. “Why… thank you! But I insist… keep the whole bag!” The pony gives his entire sack of bits to Granny Smith.

“Ok if you’re goin’ to be picky like that, ah’ll just give you another pie free!” Granny Smith offered as he gives the pony a second pie. “Ah will not take no for an answer. Take it or leave it.”

The pony smiled, showing his decaying teeth which grossed out the CMCs, AppleJack, and even almost made Big Mac barf. “Thank you, madam! You are truly a kind pony!”

“Don’t thank me – thank the Apple family recipe!” Granny Smith said as the pony walks away with the pies.

“Umm, Granny? Are you sure it was wise to give that pony an extra pie for free?” AppleJack asked.

“Now, AppleJack, this business isn’t all about money.” Granny Smith said. “The money is just there so we can stay in business and make more pies. There is nothin’ worth more than spreadin’ love to the ponies that need it most.”

“Yeah, ah guess she’s right.” Apple Bloom said.

“I mean you saw how ugly that pony was?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“He probably doesn’t get love by the monthly.” Scootaloo assumed.

“Ah know, but… somethin’ about that pony just ain’t right.” AppleJack thought.

“It doesn’t matter, AppleJack.” Granny Smith said. “Whether it’s a pony, a griffon, or even a full-grown dragon – if they ask for some pie, we’ll sell it to them.”

“Yeah, you’re right, Granny.” AppleJack smiled. “Ah guess ah was bein’ a little too over-zealous.”

“It’s all right, dear. Learn somethin’ new everyday, that’s what ah always say.” Granny Smith said.

“That’s why Granny is the best!” Apple Bloom said.

“Totally!” Scootaloo agreed.

“Yeah she is!” Sweetie Belle agreed.

“Eeyup!” Big Mac agreed.

Meanwhile, after the strange pony leaves the apple stand, he walks out of Ponyville, and once he does that he spreads his wings and begins to fly. Along with both of the pies, he flies down south through Everfree Forest. He was about to get attacked by a cockatrice that hisses at him, but just then the pony hisses at it back while revealing his glowing blue eyes and fangs in his mouth. The cockatrice gets scared and slivers away. The pony passes Zecora’s house, passes the Castle of the Two Sisters, and flies out the opposite side of the forest which leads into the desert. The pony flies through the desert, over the hills, and heads over to the badlands. After flying through the badlands, the pony enters a giant hive of some sort. Inside the hive was full of changelings.

The pony changes back to his true form – a changeling with blue armor. Throughout the hive, changelings were feeling under the weather. They were moaning and groaning. Changelings trying to do their every day activities, but felt too weak. One even tried to change its form into a random pony, but the form didn’t last long and then the changeling passes out on the floor. The changeling with the pies flies to the throne room with barely stable guards guarding it, and inside the changeling bows and says, “Your highness.”

“Who dares disturb my ill-waited slumber?” Queen Chrysalis asked angrily. “Can’t you see I’m… oh who am I kidding? I’m too weak to be angry. What do you want, Dark Horn? Shouldn’t you be out trying to save our species?”

“But your highness, I think I’ve found what we’re looking for!” Dark Horn said.

“Apple pies? Really?” Chrysalis asked. “Please tell me you’re joking, and either way I’d order my guards to take you to the dungeons.”

“We’re too weak to! Have him send himself to the dungeon!” one of the guards complained.

“But, your highness, I actually gave these pies a smell, and I feel that my energy is coming back.” Dark Horn said. “Your highness, I insist you try this!”

“Well… since this whole kingdom is going to fall anyway, I might as well make the best of it.” Chrysalis said. “Ok, bring it over.” Dark Horn brings Chrysalis one of the apple pies. Chrysalis just stares at the pie. “Uhh, can someone bring me a fork please?”

“Right here, your highness.” One of the guards said as he gives her a fork, and right after, he passes out.

“Better eat this quick before I’m next.” Chrysalis said injects the fork into the pie and takes out a piece of the pie. She gives the pie a quick smell, and then she slowly decedents it into her mouth, and right before she puts it in her mouth, she stops. “Wait, this could be poisonous. Where’s my royal poison checker?!”

“In the medical center, your highness, for food poisoning.” Her final guard said.

Chrysalis groans. “Oh well, what do I have to lose? I might as well get this over with. There’s not much for me to live for anymore anyway.” So Chrysalis doesn’t hesitate to put the piece of pie in her mouth. She chews, and then swallows.

“How do you feel, your highness?” Dark Horn asked.

“Quite… strange.” Chrysalis said. “That pie did taste delicious, as I expected.”

“Shall I escort myself to the dungeon then?” Dark Horn asked.

“Actually… wait… I feel… I feel… my energy… it’s restoring!” Chrysalis said. “I feel that. I feel that…” Just then Chrysalis changes her form to Princess Celestia, then Princess Luna, then Princess Cadance, and then Zecora, and then all four of them put together, and then she dramatically feels a green mist flowing around her as she bursts into green flames and changes back to her original self.

“Whoa!” her final guard said surprisingly as he then faints.

“And there goes my last guard.” Chrysalis said.

“Wow! That was amazing, your highness!” Dark Horn said surprisingly.

“I feel amazing!” Chrysalis said. “I feel better than I ever did! I feel more powerful than I was at the royal wedding! These pies… they must be fed to the rest of the changeling population!”

“But, your highness, there isn’t enough of them to feed to everyone else.” Dark Horn said. “I only brought two pies.”

“Then go get some more, Dark Horn! What are you waiting for?!” Chrysalis yelled.

“Actually… I got a better idea.” Dark Horn said.

“Then please speak.” Chrysalis said as she gives some pie to her passed out guards.

“It’s going to take a while to just go back to Ponyville and bring pies all the way back here.” Dark Horse said.

“So… what’s your point?” Chrysalis asked as her guards wake back up feeling full of energy.

“What if I brought the one responsible for making the pies?” Dark Horn suggested. “She can make the pies for us, and she could save our race!”

“Hmm… I like the idea.” Chrysalis nodded. “What is this pony’s name?”

“Granny Smith.” Dark Horn said.

“Then go.” Chrysalis ordered him. “Capture this ‘Granny Smith’, and bring her back here. She’s our best hope for saving the kingdom.”

“It will be done.” Dark Horn bows as he exits the throne room and leaves the hive. Chrysalis starts to chuckle mischievously after he leaves.

Later that night, the Apple family all heads to bed; well, all except Granny Smith and AppleJack, so it’s more like half of the family went to bed. Granny Smith was just putting her cooking supplies away when AppleJack walks in.

“AppleJack? What are you doin’ up still?” Granny Smith asked.

“Ah was about to ask you the same thing.” AppleJack said. “Apple Bloom and Big Mac are already asleep, and usually you’re the first one to.”

“Ah know – ah just wanted to put tidy up the place before hittin’ the hay.” Granny Smith said. “One of the things about makin’ food made of love is organization.”

“Heh! Now you’re soundin’ like Twilight.” AppleJack chuckled. “The place looks clean enough.”

“You can never be too sure.” Granny Smith said.

“Ah can’t ever deny your logic, Granny.” AppleJack said. “However, it is pretty late.”

“Alright, alright, quit your fussin’, AppleJack. Just let me take out the trash and ah’ll be right up.” Granny Smith said as she grabs the trash bag with her teeth.

“Heh, alright.” AppleJack said. “You need any help with that?”

“Nah ah’m as strong as a pony liftin’ two whole barrels of pickles!” Granny Smith said.

“Alright then. Ah can at least offer a light.” AppleJack insisted.

“Well, since you won’t stop until you help me, alright then. Just don’t light that thing towards the forest. You’ll attract the timberwolves.” Granny Smith said as she opens the door and drags the trash outside.

“Whatever you say, Granny.” AppleJack said as she opens the kitchen drawers in an effort to look for a flashlight, but Granny Smith goes on ahead outside to throw the trash bag in the trash bins up front. As she tries to lift her hoof in an effort to move the trash bin top out of the way, something dark zooms passed her. Granny doesn’t even notice though, since she’s too busy fussing and trying to open the lid. Little taps don’t seem to work.

Instead of her hooves, she decides to use her muzzle, but she couldn’t reach since she had the trashbag in her mouth still, so she releases the trashbag and opens it successfully with her muzzle, even though she gets a little bit of trash on her nose. “Well, ah’m glad mah nose don’t work as well as it used to. Ah can barely smell a thing!” she said.

“Granny!” AppleJack called out from the kitchen. “Ah can’t seem to find the flashlight anywhere!”

“Oh it’s there! Try in the spoon drawer!” Granny Smith called out as the dark shadow swoops right by again.

“Which one?” AppleJack asked.

“The wooden one!” Granny Smith called out. After that, Granny tries to lift the garbage bag with her mouth in an effort to throw it away, but the bag was way too heavy for her, but she didn’t want to give up. She even tried her hooves to lift it. “Darn unicorns makin’ it look so easy!” she complained as the dark shadow started to sneak closer to Granny.

“Ah looked in the wooden spoon drawer! It’s not in there!” AppleJack called out.

“Ah didn’t say the wooden spoon drawer!” Granny Smith corrected her.

“Uh, yeah you did. Ah asked which spoon drawer and you said the wooden one!” AppleJack reminded her.

“Ooooh! That’s what you thought ah said when ah said ‘the wood one’?” Granny Smith asked as she pushes the garbage pin over. “No ah meant the drawer was wooden!”

“Uh, they’re all wooden!” AppleJack corrected her.

Granny Smith starts mumbling to herself as she pushes the trash bin into the toppled trash bin, making it easier to put it in. “That AppleJack doesn’t even understand pure pony language sometimes. Well, the trash is inside the bin, that’s good enough for me.” As the dark shadow swooped by again, it woke up Winona and she began to growl and bark angrily.

“Granny?!” AppleJack called out.

“Its fine, deary! Hush now, Winona!” Granny Smith called out. “Ah already got the job done so you don’t need to- WHOA!” Just then, Granny Smith was shoved into a sack by the mysterious shadow, even though we know who it is.

“GRANNY!” AppleJack called out as she ran outside and saw Granny Smith getting kidnapped by the same green pony from earlier that visited their market stall. “You better release her RIGHT NOW, or so help me ah hope your dentist works late!” She threatened him.

“AppleJack, HELP!” Granny cried out as the pony starts running away with Granny Smith.

“Oh NOW she wants mah help.” AppleJack rolled her eyes as AppleJack began to chase the pony. She chases him as they cross through the orchard. AppleJack starts catching up to him right when he busts his changeling wings out. “What the?!” AppleJack gasped in surprise. “Oh NO YOU DON’T!” As the pony begins to fly away, AppleJack grabs onto his hind legs. The pony starts flying high in the air. AppleJack still grabs a hold on him, but she suddenly looks down and notices the long drop. “Whoa nelly!”

“AppleJack, HELP!” Granny cries out again. “This position is doin’ a number on mah spleen!”

“Don’t worry, Granny!” AppleJack called out. “HEY, whatever you are! You better tell me why you have the nerve to snatch mah granny like that! You’re gonna be SORRY that you’ve ever even been-“

“HISSSS!” Dark Horn hissed at AppleJack in his true form.

“WHOA!” AppleJack yelped in fright which caused her to accidently let go and start falling. She screamed as she started freefalling. Luckily for her though, she lands into one of the nice soft apple trees, because for some reason, leafs seem to save lives when ponies fall from nearly a hundred feet high. After AppleJack falls through the tree and lands on the ground, Big Mac and Apple Bloom run over to aid her. Winona came too and barked angrily up at Dark Horn.

“AppleJack!” Apple Bloom cried out. “Are you alright?”

“No!” AppleJack said.

“APPLEJAAAAAACK!” Granny Smith cried from the distance as Dark Horn flew her away.

“What was that, AppleJack?” Apple Bloom asked worryingly. “Who was that who took Granny Smith?”

“That, Apple Bloom… that was a changeling.” AppleJack said.

“Oh nnoooooope!” Big Mac said worryingly.

The next morning came, and AppleJack quickly went to Twilight’s castle to tell her the news. She met up with Twilight, Starlight, and Spike at the throne room. “So wait, you’re telling me that Granny Smith got kidnapped by some changelings?” Twilight asked.

“Do ah need to repeat mahself?” AppleJack asked as she pasted back and forth. “That thing just appeared out of nowhere and just… snatched her!”

“That ‘thing’?” Starlight asked. “You know changelings are ponies too… in a way.”

“No they’re not!” AppleJack yelled at her. “They’re ruthless, heartless beasts they are tryin’ to take over!”

“Technically speaking, AppleJack,” Twilight said as she gently moves her face away from Starlight, “they are just trying to steal the love from ponies. They feed on love to survive. We’ve all seen it at the royal wedding.”

“Well ah can’t just sit here and let those changelings make up with mah granny!” AppleJack demanded. “Ah dunno what they need her for, but ah’m gonna find out, and bring her back, and then show that monster, Queen Chrysalis a piece of mah mind!”

“And we’ll go with you.” Twilight offered.

“Well ah really appreciate it, Twilight, but you don’t have to do this.” AppleJack said.

“We insist!” Starlight said.

“Ah’ll bring Big Mac along too.” AppleJack said. “But now the real question is – where is the changeling kingdom, and how do we get in?”

“I think I know someone.” Spike said as he closes his comic book and jumps out of his seat.

“You do?” AppleJack asked.

“Yeah, I have an old friend here in town. I met him at Cranky and Matilda’s wedding.” Spike said. “He doesn’t like visitors though. In fact, he doesn’t trust any ponies whatsoever. He only trusts me because… well… you know.”

“Well, what are you waitin’ for, Spike?” AppleJack asked impatiently. “Take us too him!”

“Umm, yeah, did I forget to mention that he doesn’t like visitors, especially ponies?” Spike asked.

“Why? What are you saying, Spike?” Twilight asked.

“I’d rather not say until we get there.” Spike said.

Just then, the doors to the map room open, and Rainbow Dash says with enthusiasm, “Did somepony say ‘changelings’? I’m totally down with this! I’m more into punching faces of changelings more than the next awesome pony.”

“Umm, how did she know-“ Starlight asked.

“We tend to not let it bother us.” Twilight said.

“If you think Rainbow’s bad, you’ll have a nightmare with Pinkie.” AppleJack said.

So Spike led AppleJack, Twilight, Rainbow, and Starlight over across town not far from Everfree. “Uh, Spike, are you sure you know where we’re going?” Twilight asked.

“Oh c’mon, Twilight! Have I ever let you down before?” Spike asked. Twilight gives Spike a smirk. He then chuckled embarrassingly and said, “Umm, forget I said that.” Spike leads them to an old house right in front of Everfree.

“Ugh! Who would wanna live here?” Rainbow asked in a disgusted tone.

“Before I knock on the door, you girls need to promise me not to anger him.” Spike instructed them. “Don’t mock his appearance, don’t mock his lifestyle, and don’t even look at him funny.”

“Well I’m glad Pinkie Pie isn’t here, huh Starlight?” Rainbow teased as she elbowed her.

Starlight glares at Rainbow, and then she says to Spike, “Don’t worry, Spike. If you’re ok with this individual, we are too.”

“I couldn’t have said it better myself!” Twilight said.

“Why should we mock his appearance in any way?” AppleJack asked. “You know how rude that is?”

“I hope you keep thinking that, AppleJack.” Spike said as he knocks on the door.

The little slot on the door opens and glowing blue eyes peek out. “I don’t want any visitors. Go away!” the glowing eyes demanded.

“No, Kevin, it’s me.” Spike said.

“Oh, Spike?” Kevin asked. “Oh good to see you, bro! What are you doing here?” Kevin looks up and sees the ponies behind him. “Why did you bring ponies here? I told you – no ponies!”

“Hey! What do you have against ponies?!” Rainbow complained.

“I was going to ask you the same thing about my own race.” Kevin said.

“Wait, so he’s not a pony?” AppleJack asked.

“You got a problem with that?” Kevin asked in an offended tone.

“No, no! Of course not!” AppleJack defended herself. “Ah love all races from griffons, to mules, to baby dragons.”

“Don’t worry, Kevin. These ponies are fine.” Spike informed him. “They’re really good friends of mine, and when it comes to these ponies, they always say ‘any good friend of Spike’s is a friend of mine’.”

“Well, umm…” Kevin thought it over.

“You’re ok with us, Kevin. I assure you.” Twilight promised.

“Ok then.” Kevin said. “Just let me unlock the door.” Kevin closes the door slot and he begins to unlock the door. It took him about 45 seconds to unlock the door because he had so many locks. The door lock, the doorknob lock, a chain lock, a little slide in lock, the type of locks that you get in hotel rooms that makes you open the door slightly, a padlock, a hoof security pad, an eye security pad, and a keycode. When this dude said he didn’t want any visitors, he meant it pretty much.

Finally the door opens slightly, and the ponies all gasped when they found out who he really is. I made it sound kinda obvious, so you pretty much know what he is. “Twilight Sparkle, Starlight Glimmer, AppleJack, Rainbow Dash, I would like you to meet my good friend Kevin!”

“Umm… n-nice to meet you!” Kevin said shyly. The ponies were still surprised.

“A changeling?” AppleJack asked. “You’re friends with a changeling, Spike?”

“APPLEJACK!” Spike yelled at her. “Kevin, I am so sorry about that.”

“No worries. I’m used to it.” Kevin said with an attitude.

“No, no, you’re right, Spike. Ah apologize for that remark.” AppleJack said. “He’s your friend, and ah must treat him as such.” She walks up to Kevin and says, “Kevin, mah friend here respects you, and for now… ah’ll respect you too.”

“It’s all I wanted.” Kevin said with a smile. “Would you like to come in for some tea?”

“How lovely!” Starlight said happily.

“Bleh!” Rainbow commented.

“Shhh!” Starlight shushed her. So the ponies and Spike walked inside and sat down on his living room furniture which was covered in green goo. Rainbow, AppleJack, and Twilight were all feeling pretty grossed out, but for some reason, Starlight wasn’t. “This is a lovely place you got here, Kevin!” she said.

“Thank you!” Kevin said. “I got this house in a very cheap price! I’ve always wanted a house with a dark forest as a backyard! I have to tell you, this is a dream come true!”

“Well I’m glad you like it here!” Twilight said as Kevin places the tea on the coffee table. “How are you enjoying Ponyville?”

“Oh it is beautiful here! The sights, the sounds, the smells of delicious apple pie.” Kevin said. Just then, AppleJack starts coughing. “Are you ok, AppleJack?”

“Fine, fine.” AppleJack said. “Just got… just got a little surprised is all.”

“Why?” Kevin asked as he starts pouring the strange looking tea which kinda grossed out Rainbow.

“Apple pies. You seem to like them for some reason.” AppleJack said.

“Who wouldn’t?!” Kevin asked excitedly as he first gives Rainbow her cup. “I feel so alive when it comes to the apple pies! You see, us changelings need love to survive. Granny Smith’s sweet apple pies kinda filled that void.”

“Heh, well that’s a laugh.” AppleJack chuckled.

“What do you mean?” Kevin asked.

“What AppleJack is trying to say is, her Granny Smith has been kidnapped.” Twilight said.

“Oh my! That’s terrible!” Kevin said as he gives AppleJack some of his ‘tea’. “I do hope you find her, AppleJack. But I’m sure she’ll be alright.”

“Mmm! This tea is delicious!” Starlight commented as she took a sip.

“Yeah, about that.” AppleJack started as she grossly places his tea aside. “Ah have witnessed the fact that Granny Smith has been kidnapped by changelings.”

Kevin spits out his tea in surprise. “Really now? Are you sure?”

“Ah know what ah saw.” AppleJack said.

Kevin worryingly takes a sip of his tea and he walks over to the window and looks out of it. “I was afraid this moment would come.”

“So you knew?!” Rainbow asked surprisingly. “Well spit it out already-!”

“Rainbow!” Twilight tried to stop her.

“-or else I’ll make you sorry your entire species as ever been born!” Rainbow threatened him.

“Ah agree! This is an OUTRAGE!” AppleJack yelled as she stood up from the couch. “You changelings are nothin’ but trouble! You think you have the nerve to go and snatch mah granny like that?! HUH?!””

“Please don’t hurt me!” Kevin drops his tea cup and cowards himself in fear.

“STOP IT!” Starlight demanded as she swooped in front of AppleJack and Rainbow, blocking them from getting to Kevin. “I can’t believe you! Attack a poor changeling like this! You can tell he had nothing to do with Granny Smith’s kidnapping!”

“But he knows somethin’.” AppleJack said.

“Then why not ask him properly?” Starlight suggested. “He’s not a monster. Not all changelings are monsters. He’s an individual, like you and me. He just wants to blend in.” Starlight helps Kevin up. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine. Thank you, Starlight. No… no pony has ever defended me like that.” Kevin said getting all teary eyed.

“See? He’s got feelings and emotions too.” Starlight said to AppleJack and Rainbow. “Just give him a chance. You don’t need to yell at him. He was probably going to tell you what you needed to know anyway.”

AppleJack started to feel bad, so she removes her hat and walks over to Kevin. “Ah’m really sorry, Kevin. Ah know ah haven’t been makin’ a good first impression on you. It’s not like me to not give a fair chance to those who didn’t do anythin’ wrong. Ah’m just… ah’m just worried about mah granny. Th-this has never happened before.”

“I understand what you’re going through.” Kevin said as he picks up his tea cup off the floor. “Allow me to explain what’s happening. It turns out there was another changeling in town. He must’ve tried one of Granny Smith’s apple pies and realized there was love in it. He must have reported it to Queen Chrysalis, and she organized a kidnapping.”

“What do they what with mah granny?” AppleJack asked.

Kevin places his tea pot in the sink and he said, “They want to use her to make as many apple pies as possible. An enough supply of apple pies to keep the kingdom going, and then Chrysalis might use it to her advantage to take over Equestria.”

“That’s bad news.” Twilight said. “We have to stop her somehow.”

“Don’t worry! We’re not going to let some bug queen take over!” Rainbow said. Kevin glares at her. “What?!”

“But what stopped you, Kevin?” Twilight asked. “Why aren’t you a part of Chrysalis’ army anymore?”

“I don’t agree with her ways.” Kevin said. “Yes, changelings must need love to survive, but Chrysalis seems to put it the wrong way. She wants to harvest love from ponies. She wants to take over Equestria so she can gain unlimited love for her people. I tried to reason with her, saying there might be a better way, but she didn’t listen, and therefore banished me from the kingdom. I was an outcast. I met this donkey, Cranky, he seemed to understand my situation and wanted to help me. He took me on his journeys, offered me love, it got me going. That was until ponies started seeing me with him. I couldn’t stay with Cranky, even though he insisted. I decided to live in solitude in Ponyville. I don’t go out much, and I rarely change my appearance.”

“Why?” Twilight asked.

“Because if I change my appearance all the time, I’m not me anymore.” Kevin said. “I am proud of being me. I am proud of being a changeling. Why should I change into something I’m not? I only change my appearance when I go out and do errands.” Kevin suddenly changes his form into Octavia and starts mimicking her in his own voice, “Oh blah, blah, cello this, blah, blah, perfection that.”

Spike starts to chuckle. “You sound exactly like her!”

Kevin then changes into Vinyl, “Wow-wow-wow. Drop the bass, yo! Listen to my loud an obnoxious music!”

“Ugh! You have no idea!” Twilight laughed.

Kevin then changes into Doctor Whooves and says in a British accent, “Oh dear would you look at the time. I must change my clock. This is the time I’m supposed to change all the other clocks in town.

Rainbow starts to laugh hysterically. “Oh you’re alright, Kevin! You are hilarious!”

Kevin then changes back to his original form. “You see? I’m not like other changelings.” He said. “All I want is to blend in, but nopony seems to ever give me a chance.”

“Well… perhaps we can help you change that.” AppleJack said.

“Really?” Kevin asked.

“Yes.” AppleJack nodded. “Ah seemed to have judged you far too quickly, Kevin. No hard feelings, right?” She sticks out her hoof.

“No hard feelings.” Kevin said as he shakes her hoof.

“But first thing’s first. Can you lead us to the changeling kingdom?” AppleJack asked. “We must rescue Granny Smith.”

“Well, I am still banished from the kingdom.” Kevin said. “But I will lead you to the path. It’s not very close by, I’m afraid. You’ll need to gather some supplies before we head off.”

“I’ll stay here with Kevin and try to make us a map.” Twilight said. “Spike, Starlight, can you go pack our things?”

“Will do, Twilight!” Spike saluted.

“Oh this is going to be so awesome!” Rainbow said excitedly. “I love fighting me some changelings!” She then heard what she said and she embarrassingly turns towards Kevin and says, “Oh… you know… the bad changelings.”

“Ah’ll go get Big Mac.” AppleJack said. “Ah hope Apple Bloom won’t be too disappointed that she can’t go.”

“What do you mean we can’t go?!” Apple Bloom complained back at Sweet Apple Acres.

“That is so unfair! I want to fight some changelings too!” Scootaloo whined.

“At least we could’ve watched!” Sweetie Belle complained.

“Ah’m sorry girls, but this journey is goin’ to be much too dangerous for y’all.” AppleJack said.

“She’s mah granny too! This ain’t fair!” Apple Bloom whined.

“Ah just fear for you safety, sugarcubes.” AppleJack said.

“You can’t tell Scootaloo and me what to do though!” Sweetie Belle reminded her.

“Yeah, that’s right!” Scootaloo agreed.

“Rarity says you’re not allowed to go, Sweetie Belle, and quite frankly… she doesn’t want to either because it’s too… ‘icky’ for her.” AppleJack said.

“Aw c’mon!” Sweetie Belle whined.

“And Rainbow Dash suggested that you don’t go, Scootaloo.” AppleJack informed her.

“Oh anything for her!” Scootaloo said excitedly as she jumps into the air and flies for 2 seconds until touching back down.

“Ah still feel betrayed!” Apple Bloom whined.

“Apple Bloom, c’mon.” AppleJack tried to talk to some sense into her.

“NO! Just go! At least ah get some time to mahself!” Apple Bloom yelled as she angrily ran off, and the rest of the CMCs followed her. AppleJack sighs and shook her head knocking there was no reasoning with her, so she and Big Mac just decided to head off.

Lead by Kevin – Twilight, Rainbow, AppleJack, Spike, Starlight, and Big Mac all left Ponyville and went on to the changeling kingdom. They took a train to Appleloosa because that town was the closest to where they needed to go that has a trainstation. They said hi to the Appleloosa townfolk, but couldn’t stay there long.

Meanwhile over at the changeling hives, Granny Smith wakes up from her slumber and finds herself sitting right in front of a counter full of baking supplies. As Granny wakes up, she gets up from her seat and walks over to the coffee machine to make herself some coffee. As she starts up the machine, she turns around and sees Queen Chrysalis looking down at her.

“Ah, mornin’ deary!” Granny Smith said. “How did you sleep?”

“I slept fine thanks for asking.” Chrysalis said.

“Ah that’s good!” Granny Smith said as she walked passed her, but then her eyes opened wide and she turned back towards Chrysalis. “Wait a minute! Who in Ponyville are you?”

“Greetings, Granny Smith.” Chrysalis said. “Please, allow me to introduce myself. I am Chrysalis, Queen of the Changelings, but you may call me Queen Chrysalis, or your highness, or your majesty.”

“May ah call you deary?” Granny Smith asked.

“No.” Chrysalis said.

“Alright, deary!” Granny Smith said. “So what do you need?”

“My royal advisor, Dark Horn, has tried one of your famous apple pies.” Chrysalis said. “I need you to bake more of these pies for my people.”

“Well of course deary!” Granny Smith said. “Bakin’ pies is mah specialty.”

“I hope you realize you are not getting paid.” Chrysalis said. “I have taken you hostage, and am forcing you to make pies for my people so they can survive.”

“Well ah’m not in it for the money anyhow.” Granny Smith said. “But why kidnap me?”

“They need the love within your pies, or they’ll pass out in a coma.” Chrysalis explained. “So much of my people, loveless or so long. Ever since our defeat at the royal wedding at Canterlot, the changelings have been scattering around Equestria looking for other means of love to harvest. Unfortunately, ponies were getting the news of our existence, and they’ve been suspicious over us ever since.”

“Well, it ain’t right just takin’ love from other ponies.” Granny Smith said. “You gotta earn that love.”

“Why must we?” Chrysalis asked. “We are the changelings! It is our tradition to hunt and harvest to survive. It’s been that way for generations. Unfortunately, our lack of love is causing the kingdom to fall. I was able to save some of my people from the apple pies we got, but it wasn’t enough for every other changeling at the kingdom. One by one, they are losing their abilities to change form. They can hardly even stand up. That’s why we took you against your will. You are the best hope our kingdom has to survive.”

Granny Smith thinks it over, and she gives Chrysalis her answer, “Well deary… normally ah would say no.” She then smiles. “But… if ah’m the hope your people have for survival, then ah can’t just stand by and let your race fade away. It just ain’t right.”

Chrysalis started to feel less angry and in power, and she started to feel actual emotion. “You… you’ll actually do this?” she asked. “You’re volunteering to save our race, even though we’ve captured you from your home and away from your family?”

“If ah just walked away, what kind of pony would ah be?” Granny Smith asked. “Ah ain’t doomin’ an entire race. But before ah get started, ah need some supplies. Ah need flour, ah need apples, ah need the necessary tools, because all of these doohickeys you have – they ain’t gonna work.”

“I’ll send my units to retrieve the items for you.” Chrysalis said. She then turns around and chuckles to herself. “Yes, everything is going according to plan. If Granny Smith makes enough apple pies to wake my fallen changelings, we’ll finally have the energy to take over Equestria, and nopony will stop us! Ha ha ha ha haaaa!”

“Eh? What was that deary?” Granny Smith asked.

“Oh nothing!” Chrysalis lied. “I’m just pleased that you’re here to save the changelings. Your family must be so proud of you.”

“Awww.” Granny Smith blushed. “Perhaps you should send them a message sayin’ ah’m ok, and ah’m here for a good cause, and ah’ll be home when ah’m finished.”

“Oh don’t worry. I’ll get on that.” Chrysalis fibbed.

Back at Appleloosa, some of AppleJack’s family wanted to help out the cause. “Are you sure y’all don’t want our help, AppleJack?” AppleJack’s cousin Apple Fritter asked.

“Sorry, Apple Fritter, but ah’d rather not endanger the family by sendin’ all of us to the changeling hive.” AppleJack said.

“We can help, sugarcube! We’ll be mighty helpful!” Apple Fritter insisted. But then Braeburn stops her and he shakes his head. The rest of them continued on. They climbed the Macintosh Hills to the borders of southern Equestria, and into the badlands where friendship meant nothing. A place the princesses or the Tree of Harmony have no control over.

“We better be careful, everypony.” Twilight said. “We’re out of reach from the Tree of Harmony and my castle, so the power of elemental friendship isn’t going to work here. If we’re going to reason with Chrysalis, we’re going to have to do it the old fashion way.”

“Fight?” Rainbow asked excitedly.

“No. Reasoning.” Twilight corrected her.

“Awww.” Rainbow whined. “But… if it comes down to fighting…”

“No!” Twilight said. “If it comes down to it, we’re going to rescue Granny Smith, and get out of there before anypony gets hurt.”

“What if we have no choice?” Rainbow asked.

“Hopefully it won’t have to come to that.” Twilight said.

“Hopefully it does.” Rainbow mumbled to Big Mac.

“Ugh!” Big Mac groaned.

“Whoa! What’s your problem?” Rainbow asked. “Are you ok, Big Mac?”

“Yes.” Big Mac said.

“Huh?” Rainbow asked.

“Ah mean… umm… eeyup.” Big Mac said nervously.

“Hmm… ok then.” Rainbow said awkwardly.

“How much further did we have to go, Kevin?” Starlight asked.

“Not too far. The hive should be within distance very soon.” Kevin said.

“We really appreciate all you’re doing for us. You didn’t have to do this.” Starlight said.

“Oh but I appreciate you, Starlight!” Kevin said. “You’re a pony that cares about other’s feelings – even if they are not ponies.”

“I just don’t want anyone to not have a fair chance at friendship.” Starlight said.

“Ah can understand that, Starlight.” AppleJack said. “So, Spike, how did you and Kevin meet?”

“Oh we met at Cranky and Matilda’s wedding.” Spike said. “He was sitting alone at the reception. Nopony wanted to be near him. I felt bad for him. He was an outcast, away from his own kind, I had to do something, even if he is a changeling.”

“Well, you do have a good heart, sugarcube.” AppleJack said.

“Well, I don’t mean to brag but I do seem to always have my heart in the right place.” Spike said.

“Why was Kevin even at the weddin’, even at his own form?” AppleJack asked.

“He was a friend of Cranky’s.” Spike said. “Kevin was banished from his kingdom, Cranky felt bad for him, so he offered to take him along on his travels – that was until ponies started to get the wrong idea, so Kevin decided to go his own way, and that’s why he moved to Ponyville.”

“Behold!” Kevin pointed to a giant hive right in front of them.

“Whoa!” everypony said as they impressively looked up and saw how huge the hive is.

“I cannot go any closer.” Kevin said. “But that said, I do hope you find Granny Smith and return home in one piece.”

“Kevin, thank you so much for your offerin’.” AppleJack said as she takes off her hat and places on her chest. “Ah promise, when we get back home, we’ll make sure your reputation is well known.”

“I’m just glad to do my part for the community.” Kevin said. “Good luck in there. I’ll see you back home in Ponyville.” So everypony says goodbye, AppleJack puts her hat back on, and they walked over to the hive.

The six of them get startled by the sound of moaning. Spike gets scared and dangles on Big Mac’s leg. “Wh-wh-what was that?” Spike asked nervously.

“I dunno, but everypony stay on your hooves.” Twilight instructed them. “Whatever it is, be ready.” The moaning gets closer as Twilight’s horn starts to glow, AppleJack takes out her lasso, and Rainbow sticks up her hooves; they were ready for anything, but they weren’t expecting a weak changeling crawling on the ground.

“Oh c’mon! I ain’t fighting him!” Rainbow complained. “They won’t give me a challenge! Not that changelings ever proved to be a challenge.”

Spike was still dangling on Big Mac’s leg, and he didn’t very much like it. “Get off me, you runt!” Big Mac yelled at him as he kicks his leg aside and forces Spike to release his grip.

“Uhh… what?” Spike asked confusingly.

“What’s wrong?” Starlight asked as she helped him up.

“Big Mac’s acting pretty weird.” Spike said.

“In what way?” Starlight asked.

“He doesn’t usually say that many words unless he has a really good reason to.” Spike said.

“What’s wrong with him?” AppleJack asked Twilight about the changeling.

“I’m not sure.” Twilight said. “We should go help him.”

“Uh, are you crazy or something, Twilight?” Rainbow asked. “For all you know, he could be the one who took Granny Smith.”

“Exactly.” Twilight said. “If we help him, he might tell us where she is.”

“Well it’s worth a try.” AppleJack said. So the six of them walked over to the weak changeling, and helped him up on his knees.

“Are you ok?” Twilight asked.

“Uhh…” the changeling moaned in pain. “Why… why are you using your pony form on me? Change back.”

“Umm, actually, we’re actual-“ Twilight was about to say but Starlight cuts her off by covering her mouth.

“Yes, we’re changelings.” Starlight said. “Sorry, but we’re kinda paranoid right now over pony spies that want to try to rescue the pony we have captive.”

“Oh… ok, I get it.” the changeling said softly. “Sorry, I’m… I’m a little too weak right now. I’m… I’m awaiting our prisoner to bake the apple pies so I can regain my strength. You look like you already have it. You think… you think you can help me back into the hive?”

“Of course.” Twilight said as she figured out what Starlight was doing. “Can you lead us to the prisoner? Maybe we can help you get to her first, and you might get your pie right away.”

“Well that’s good.” The changeling said in relief. “I’ll show you the way.” The changeling tries to stand up, but he has trouble.

“You need any help?” Twilight asked.

“No, no, I’m good thank you.” The changeling said as he stands up straight. “Ok, ok I think I got it.” And then he collapses on the ground. “Ok, I do need help.”

So as the changeling gets carried by Big Mac, he points the group into the right direction. When they got into the hive and started navigating through it, they saw changelings all over the place limping and crawling on the ground in pain. The group had no idea whether the amount of changelings surrounding them was a nightmare to them, or the fact that the changelings were all in pain was more of a nightmare to them.

“Wow… seeing all these changelings like this almost makes me feel sorry for them.” Rainbow admitted. “Almost.”

“You’re tellin’ me!” AppleJack said. “What do the changelings want from mah granny?”

“I kinda have the feeling they’re using her.” Twilight said. “Whether what Granny Smith caused is what made the changelings like this, or if they’re using her to cure whatever disease these changelings might have is beyond me.”

“Ok, so… take the next right.” The changeling pointed.

“Ah know where to go, you idiot!” Big Mac said angrily at him.

As they were walking, Starlight taps on AppleJack’s shoulder. “What?” AppleJack asked.

“I don’t know if you can see it, but something weird is going on with your brother.” Starlight said.

“What do you mean?” AppleJack asked as she looked at him.

“He was being awfully rude to Rainbow Dash and Spike earlier.” Starlight said.

“Oh he’s probably just stressed out knowin’ granny is here against her will.” AppleJack said.

“Are you sure he’d even be that rude even if he does feel that way?” Starlight asked.

“Well…” AppleJack thought it over. “…actually, come to think of it, ah know he’d have an attitude, but he would never act that rude. You might have a point there, Starlight.” Big Mac overhears Starlight and AppleJack’s conversation and he starts to slow down, letting the other ponies (and dragon) pass him.

“Are you sure it’s actually Big Mac, AppleJack?” Starlight asked.

“At what point could Big Mac and a changeling switch places?” AppleJack asked. “He was with us the entire journey. What do you think, Big Mac?”

“Ah honestly couldn’t care less.” Big Mac said as he pulls a lever on the wall, and green goo drops all on the ponies (and dragon).

“Ugh! Ugh!” Rainbow struggled. “I’m stuck!”

“Same here!” Twilight said as she attempts to use her magic to remove the goo, but it didn’t work.

“Your magic won’t work here, princess!” Big Mac said mischievously.

“Who are you?!” AppleJack yelled at him. “What have you done with mah brother?!”

“You’ll find out soon enough, AppleJack.” Big Mac said mischievously as he turns back into his original changeling form, which was actually Dark Horn. “You’ve fallen right into my trap! We knew you’d come to rescue Granny Smith, that’s why I took over as your brother to lure you here. Now nothing can stop Queen Chrysalis or the changelings now!” He laughs evilly as he pulls another lever which opened a trapdoor on the floor. The ponies (and dragon) all began to scream as they fell.

A little while went by, and the ponies all regained conscience as they woke up in some sort of dungeon. AppleJack was the first to wake up. “Ugh!” she groaned as she rubbed her head. “Is everypony ok?”

“I’m fine.” Twilight said.

“I’m fine too.” Spike said. “And let me say it was a pretty soft landing.”

“Ugh!” Rainbow groaned right beneath Spike. “I think you broke my stomach.”

Just then, Rainbow’s stomach began to rumble. “Seems fine to me.” Spike said. “And I gotta say your stomach makes a great massage chair, Rainbow!”

“Wow… how could ah not see that Big Mac was a changeling?” AppleJack asked.

“Because that wasn’t Big Mac.” Starlight said. “At sometime, Big Mac was replaced by a changeling.”

“Eeyup.” A familiar voice echoed.

“Big Mac?!” AppleJack cried out as Big Mac was at another cell across the dungeon. “Is that you?!”

“Eeyup!” Big Mac said.

“Oh thank the princesses!” AppleJack said in relief. “You are a sight for soar eyes! Is Granny Smith here? Did you see her?”

“Eeyup.” Big Mac said.

“Is she ok?” AppleJack asked.

“Mmhmm.” Big Mac nodded.

“Uhh, what?” AppleJack asked curiously.

“Well you don’t expect me to give you the same answer all the time, do you AppleJack?” Big Mac asked with a playful look.

“Heh.” AppleJack chuckled embarrassingly. “Ah guess not.”

Just then, they hear some doors open in the distance and hoofsteps approaching. “Wh-wh-who’s coming?” Spike asked nervously as she cuddles along Starlight in fright.

“Who do you think?” Rainbow asked sarcastically. “A changeling of course!”

“Oh gee, like I didn’t know that.” Spike said sarcastically.

Just then, Dark Horn approaches their cell along with two guards and he said, “The queen would like to see you all now.”

“Ah well isn’t that coincidence?” Twilight asked as she smiled. “Just the dictator we wanted to see! Lead on!” So the changelings opened the cell door containing Twilight, Spike, AppleJack, Starlight, and Rainbow, and then they opened the cell containing Big Mac, and they all got escorted to the queen’s chambers.

When they all got to the queen’s chambers and stopped walking right into the middle of the room, the changelings shove them all down on their knees and bent them over so it would look like they were bowing to her. “Ow! HEY!” Rainbow yelled. “We could’ve done it ourselves if you just asked!”

“Knowing you Rainbow Dash, I wouldn’t be too sure.” Starlight teased.

“Ah, Twilight Sparkle! Good to see you again!” Chrysalis said as she sat on her throne. “Oh my, it feels only yesterday that I took control of your brother and nearly overthrew Canterlot!”

“Chrysalis!” Twilight said angrily. “The time that my brother and Cadance had defeated you should’ve been the last time we met!”

“Technically, Twilight, we saw her before then in an alternate timeline.” Spike reminded her.

Twilight rolls her eyes and then AppleJack cries out, “Where in the hay is Granny Smith, you fiend?!”

Chrysalis started to laugh. “Oh AppleJack, you have not yet realized it. Your Granny Smith is giving us a big deal. We need her and her pies to help restore our energy. Is that so bad?”

“YES!” AppleJack yelled. “Because you forced her out of her own home! What could you possibly need her for?!”

“Love, AppleJack.” Granny Smith said as she brought a cart of pies into the throne room.

“Huh? Granny?!” AppleJack cried out. “What in tarnation are you talkin’ about?”

“Oh you watch your mouth around me, young filly.” Granny Smith instructed her.

“And as to me! You think I want to hear your foul language in my own kingdom?” Chrysalis asked.

“Look, AppleJack, the changelings only captured me because they need me to save them.” Granny Smith said. “Ah’m sure you realize by now that the changelings out there in the hive are losing energy.”

“Ah do.” AppleJack said.

“All they want from me is to bake apple pies for them, because mah pies are made of love. You know that, deary.” Granny Smith explained.

“Of course!” Twilight figured it out. “The changelings need love to survive, Chrysalis did say that. They usually get love from harvesting from other ponies, but it turns out they found an alternative resource.”

“HA!” Chrysalis laughed. “You think this alternative resource is going stop us from taking over Equestria?! Wow, you’re duller than I thought.”

“Hey who you calling DULL?!” Rainbow yelled.

“Wait a minute, why would you still want to take over Equestria if Granny Smith is already givin’ you what you need?” AppleJack asked.

“Love isn’t going to cut it! I need power!” Chrysalis said. “I need more love than these pies will ever have! I need to harvest love from those ponies! I need to expand my kingdom!”

“But you don’t need to!” Twilight said.

“Who cares what I need and don’t need?! I want Equestria!” Chrysalis yelled. “Why do the ponies deserve it?! They look at us and see monsters! Well, forget them! We’ll show them how monstrous we can become!” Chrysalis began to spark magical energy all over herself as she flew into the air.

“Well not if we can stop you!” AppleJack yelled.

“Eeyup!” Big Mac agreed angrily.

“Oh and who’s going to stop me?” Chrysalis asked. “I have an army of changelings already fueled up and ready to go!” A group of changelings fly into the room, and they no longer feel weak. “And what do you have? Two farmers, a pegasus with a low-tolerance level, a baby dragon that wastes his life being a servant, some unicorn that had it all and let it go, and a princess who still doesn’t know the first thing about rule. Did you know I defeated Celestia in fair combat once?” Everypony was feeling really angry at her at her offensive comments towards them.

“Well if that’s the way ya gonna talk to mah family and friends, then ah won’t bake you anymore pies!” Granny Smith said.

“Who cares?!” Chrysalis laughed. “My changelings already have their energies restored! We’re ready to take on Equestria! We’re more powerful than we ever were in the past! Equestria will soon realize that the changelings are reborn! HA HA HA HA HA HAAAA!”

“You were in pain!” Granny Smith said angrily. “You said your kingdom and race were collaspin’. Ah helped you restore your kingdom, cause ah knew ah couldn’t say no to someone in need of help! If this is the way you abuse your power, then you’re goin’ to lose even the first battle of Equestria! You ain’t takin’ it! Power or no power!”

“HA HA HA!” Chrysalis laughed. “Where’s your power of love this time, Twilight? It won’t stop us now! HA HA HA HAAAA!”

“Y’all sure about that?” Apple Bloom asked as she and the other crusaders were standing at the throne room door.

“Cutie Mark Crusaders to the rescue!” Scootaloo said excitedly.

“APPLE BLOOM?!” AppleJack gasped in surprise.

“Scoots?!” Rainbow gasped in surprise. “What are you doing here, kid? This is too dangerous for you!”

“Hey just because they’re kids doesn’t mean they won’t be useful, ain’t that right girls?” Starlight asked them.

“Right!” the crusaders all agreed.

“HA HA HA HA HA!” Chrysalis laughed again. “You’re joking right? I mean, three little fillies? How are they to help fight?”

“Us alone? HA!” Sweetie Belle laughed.

“We didn’t come alone.” Scootaloo said.

“Then… who’s with you?” AppleJack asked. Just then, Babs Seed, Braeburn, Apple Fritter, Apple Strudel, Hayseed Turnip Truck, and the rest of the Apple family burst right into the throne room, whether it’s the door or through the walls, or up from the ceiling. “You brought the entire Apple family with you?!”

“You mess with one of us – you mess with ALL of us!” Apple Fritter cried. AppleJack, and the rest of the prisoners smiled with glee. Chrysalis didn’t very much like this.

“CHANGELINGS… ATTACK!” Chrysalis yelled. So her army of changelings began to fight the army of the Apple family. Twilight and Starlight fought side by side and fought them with their magic, AppleJack and Big Mac were bucking changelings, Babs opens her legs and takes down a changeling by locking it’s head with them making the changeling completely vulnerable, the crusaders worked together to fight them off, and Spike trips one over with his foot.

The changelings didn’t want the family to defeat them, so they were going to gain up on the crusaders, but the family wouldn’t allow that. “READY! AIM! FIRE!” Fritter yelled as some of the family members threw apple pies at those changelings. The very thing that kept the changelings going was brought against them. The changelings were losing the battle, so Chrysalis had to improvise.

Chrysalis holds Granny Smith capture and yells, “STOP!” Everypony immediately stops fighting. Well, except for Apple Split who wanted to give one final punch.

“If you don’t give in to my demands, the old lady’s going to get it!” Chrysalis yelled.

“Don’t you dare hurt mah granny, you monster!” AppleJack yelled. “All of you! All of you changelings are monsters! You’re never gonna change! You’re never gonna see reason!”

“What about Kevin?” Starlight reminded her.

“What about him?” AppleJack asked. “He probably lured us to this trap!”

“Yeah I second that! No changeling is to be trusted!” Rainbow agreed.

“NO PONY IS TO BE TRUSTED!” Dark Horn yelled.

“SILENCE!” Chrysalis yelled.

“AppleJack,” Starlight continued, “Kevin did NOT lure us to a trap! Big Mac was obviously taken even before we went to see him!”

“Eeyup.” Big Mac nodded.

“I know there are certain changelings are evil, but there are also changelings that are good and just want peace.” Starlight explained. “Don’t blame all the changelings just because one changeling is bad. These changelings follow the orders of Chrysalis because they have to, not because they want to.”

“It’s true.” Granny Smith said.

“All of you! Stop talking or else the granny gets it!” Chrysalis threatened them.

“Or what granny gets it?” Granny Smith smirked at her as Granny Smith turned into another changeling.

“Kevin!” Spike cried out.

“You know that’s Kevin?” Rainbow asked. “Wow, I don’t get it. All these changelings look the same to me.”

“OOOOOH!” all of the changelings in the room yelled offendedly.

“Ok that was so uncalled for!” Dark Horn said angrily.

“What are you doing here, traitor?” Chrysalis asked Kevin. “Wait a minute… where’s Granny Smith?!”

“Right here.” Granny Smith waved as she reveals herself out of hiding from behind some of her family members.

“YOU… YOU PONIES!” Chrysalis yelled angrily. “We’re supposed to be the superior species! You ponies are EVIL! Why do you deserve to win all the time?! Us changelings are the superior ones!”

“No, they’re not.” Kevin said. “And neither are ponies. We deserve to be one. We deserve to have peace. Yes, the ponies do think wrong of us. We are not bad creatures, but that doesn’t mean we have to think ponies are bad either. If we think that way, then… what makes one better than the other? We don’t need to harvest love out of other creatures. This apple pie alternative was the best idea ever!”

“It’s true.” One of the changelings said.

“TRAITOR!” Chrysalis yelled.

“I just wish there was a better way to gain love than to harvest it from other creatures.” The changeling said.

“Exactly!” another changeling agreed. “If we want love, we need to earn it, not force it upon us.”

“You’re WRONG!” a loyal changeling yelled. “Ponies will NEVER give us a chance!”

“That’s right! We’re treated as second-class to them!” another loyal changeling yelled.

“No we don’t!” AppleJack cried out. “Ah’m sorry for what ah said. Changelings are not bad as a race. There are only certain changelings that chose to be bad. Ah know of ponies that chose to be bad instead of good.” AppleJack turns towards Starlight and smiles. “But there is still hope for them all.” Starlight smiles back at her as AppleJack continues, “Ponies and changelings deserve to have peace. Queen Chrysalis, ah respect you as a changeling. But ah do not respect you as an individual. You stole our granny, and that just makes me sick!”

Chrysalis starts to think it over, and then she eventually gives her answer. “No. I don’t believe you.” She said angrily. “Ponies will always think of us as monsters. I will not take that chance!”

AppleJack nods in agreement. “Ah understand.”

“But… that doesn’t mean I have to be a monster to them.” Chrysalis said. “I don’t need to take over Equestria to get what I want, but that doesn’t mean I have to like them. I’ll cut you a deal. I will not invade Equestria. We’ll all have the peace we deserve, but… I want Granny Smith’s pie recipe in trade. It will help the changeling kingdom get back on it’s hooves and restore it all.”

“it’s a deal!” Granny Smith said.

“Wait, Granny!” AppleJack stopped her. “Your recipe is a secret! You can’t just give it away! It’s what made your pies unique!”

“Oh ah don’t need it, AppleJack.” Granny Smith said as she takes her recipe out of her scarf. “These changelings need it for the sake of their kingdom, and of course for them not to invade Equestria. Ah’m willin’ to make that sacrifice.”

“Wise move, Granny Smith.” Chrysalis said as she takes the recipe. “And so, henceforth, the changeling kingdom and Equestria have a truce… for now. Enjoy the peace while it lasts. You ponies just better stay as far away from here as possible!”

“Oh don’t worry; we don’t plan on coming back!” Rainbow said.

“Thank you, your highness.” Twilight said as she bowed.

“Now be gone from my kingdom!” Chrysalis ordered.

So AppleJack, Twilight, Starlight, Spike, Big Mac, Rainbow, the crusaders, and the entire Apple family all left the hive and started to head back home. The crusaders were chatting with Babs and taking a good look at her cutie mark. On the way back, Twilight saw how upset Spike was so she wanted to cheer him up.

“Don’t let what Chrysalis said bother you.” Twilight said. “You’re not wasting your life with me.” Spike didn’t say anything and just kept going. Twilight sighs and shakes her head.

“You know what?” Rainbow asked. “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but maybe not all changelings are bad.”

“Eeyup!” Big Mac agreed.

“I’m still going to fight them in my sleep tonight though!” Rainbow said.

“Why did you do it, Granny?” AppleJack asked. “Why did you give away your secret recipe to the changelings?”

“AppleJack, it’s high-time ah told you the truth.” Granny Smith said. “The secret to makin’ mah famous apple pies… there is no secret recipe.”

“Huh?” AppleJack asked.

“If others believe it’s a secret, it makes it more special.” Granny Smith explained. “Ah just use the same ingredients to make any kind of apple pie.”

“So… if they just believe the pies they make are made of love, it’ll still help them?” AppleJack asked.

“As long as they feel the love within them, it’s all they need.” Granny Smith said.

“Ah’m just so glad that you’re safe!” AppleJack said as she hugged her.

“Hey ah’m just glad ah get to go home.” Granny Smith said. “Ah ain’t cookin’ another pie for a month! Tired of makin’ those things!”

AppleJack chuckled as she backed up and talked to Starlight. “Starlight, none of this would be possible without you.” She said.

“Sure it would.” Starlight said. “I’m sure Twilight would’ve done just as well of a job in persuading you than I, if not better.”

“Yeah but what you said came from your heart.” AppleJack said. “Ah think what you said might fill up the changelings’ love meters for a month! Ah’m mighty impressed on how much you’ve improved, sugarcube!”

“I am too, AppleJack!” Starlight said as she and AppleJack hugged. “I am too!” Just then, Starlight’s cutie mark begins to glow that strange glow again. The glow on her cutie mark slides down the little toothpaste things on her cutie mark, and then her star pops out a flash from the inside out.

Author's Note

I've actually had this chapter idea for a long time! This chapter was actually inspired by one of my past chapters on FiE, the Book 2 chapter Changes and Attitudes. Since all changelings need is love, feeling the love within the food made by somepony who cares can really make a strong impact. I'm pretty sure all of Granny Smith's cooking was made of love, and could make a strong impact on the changelings' lives. Such a nice way to feature the changelings' return, huh? Also the entire Apple family returned too! Good excuse to have them all here! If you think Babs didn't do enough in this chapter, don't sweat it, I got something for her coming!

Now I didn't really want Queen Chrysalis to actually "reform". Many of the show's past antagonists had reformed already, and if it happens too much, it might be considered unbelievable, so she still hates ponies, but offered an exception just so she wouldn't attack Equestria anymore. That doesn't necessarily mean she's reformed.

I'm sure you realize by now that Starlight's cutie mark glowing in the last two chapters kinda means something. Well you'll see what I got planned!

Fall for the Cutie

(Impressed CMCs vector by thatguy1945, Babs vector by Kuren 427)

“It’s happenin’! It’s happenin’! Ah can’t believe it’s happenin’!” Apple Bloom cried out in excitement as she jumped on her bed. “Tomorrow is gonna be the day!”

“Whoa there, Apple Bloom!” AppleJack stopped her as she walked in. “Careful with all that jumpin’. You’re gonna break the floor, and ah ain’t payin’ for that.”

“Sorry, AppleJack, but I’m just so excited!” Apple Bloom said excitedly.

“Well it was mighty nice of Rarity to let you and your friends go to Manehattan with her so she can help Coco Pommel with her next project.” AppleJack said.

“Coco who now?” Apple Bloom asked. “Who cares about that? We’re gonna see mah cousin Babs Seed!”

“But you just saw her a little while ago back when Granny Smith was… y’know.” AppleJack reminded her.

“Oh ah know, and we were pretty excited, but we never got to ask her how she got her cutie mark! We were too excited talkin’ about our victory after rescuin’ Granny!” Apple Bloom said.

“Well perhaps tomorrow will be the chance to actually ask her.” AppleJack said. “You’d be careful in Manehattan tomorrow, y’hear? There are a lot of bad neighborhoods there filled with bad kids. You thought your bullies were bad, just wait till you get to Manehattan.”

“Oh it won’t be problem, AppleJack!” Apple Bloom said. “We’ll have Babs with us the whole time! She’s a tough pony! She can handle anything!”

“Well ah hope she can handle herself and y’all from any hoodlums.” AppleJack said.

“Ah’m still so psyched that we’re goin’ to be seein’ Babs again!” Apple Bloom cried out excitedly as she continued jumping on the bed. “Cutie Mark Crusader reunion!” Just then her bed collapses after the last jump, and Apple Bloom falls on the debris. She removes the blanket her head and she chuckles embarrassingly.

The next day came – Rarity, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle all boarded the Friendship Express and were on their way to the Big Apple that is Manehattan. The city that makes small town ponies feel so tiny and cramped. The CMCs were acting all excited on the train which was really disturbing Rarity’s reading. The CMCs were jumping around, laughing, and cheering because they’re going to see Babs.

“Um, girls?” Rarity asked. “Do you mind toning it down a bit? I’m trying to read.”

“Trying to read?! What are you, Twilight?” Scootaloo teased.

“Yeah, sis. Don’t be such a square like her!” Sweetie Belle teased.

“I know you all are excited to see your friend.” Rarity said.

“Our friend?!” the CMCs all cried out in surprise.

“Babs Seed is MORE than just a friend, Rarity.” Sweetie Belle informed her.

“Yeah, she’s the most awesome and inspiring Cutie Mark Crusader ever!” Scootaloo said. “Last time we were in Manehattan to see her, she made an awesome leader to her friends!”

“She was an inspiration!” Apple Bloom said. “Bubble Bop and Cloudy Thunder were so lucky to have somepony like Babs! She whipped them into shape, showed off her wicket skills that she learned from us!”

“But not only that.” Sweetie Belle added. “She was also very sweet, and gentle, and kind.”

“And 100% pure awesomeness!” Scootaloo said.

“I thought Rainbow Dash was 100% pure awesomeness to you, Scootaloo?” Sweetie Belle reminded her.

“No, no, no. You got it all wrong, Sweetie Belle.” Scootaloo reminded her. “Rainbow Dash is easily 200% pure awesomness.”

“All we’re sayin’ is that she’s… she’s… she’s such a BAD SEED!” Sweetie Belle said excitedly. “In the awesome kind of ‘bad’, not the… bad type of bad.”

“And I’m really happy that you all are going to get to see her again, girls!” Rarity said. “But I must let you know that Manehattan is a big place. Once I drop you girls off, you’ll be careful right?”

“Ugh! You sound just like AppleJack, Rarity!” Apple Bloom complained. “We’ll be fine! We’ve been here before.”

“I just care for your safety, Apple Bloom.” Rarity said. “You too, Scootaloo, and especially you Sweetie Belle.”

“I know the lecture… I get it.” Sweetie Belle said with an attitude.

“Uhh, folks?” one of the conductors asked. “We’re arriving at Manehattan now. We’ll be at the station in a couple of minutes.”

“MANEHATTAN!” the crusaders cried out in excitement as they ran towards the right window… well, right window from the back – left window from the front and they looked out and saw the statue and then the city itself as the train crosses the bridge from the Jersey side. The train eventually arrives at the station, and once Rarity and the crusaders walk out, Rarity calls for a cab.

After a pleasant right through Manehattan, the cab stops right in front of Orange residence. The crusaders jump out of the cab and quickly run inside the apartment complex. Rarity doesn’t follow. “Are… are you going to go with them?” the cab puller asked.

“I think they know their way, they don’t need me.” Rarity said. “Anyways, my good darling, please take me to see my friend Coco Pommel?”

“Ok.” The cab puller said. “Now… where exactly is she?”

So the crusaders quickly run through the halls of the building, and they run to the elevator. “Quick! The elevator!” Sweetie Belle pointed.

“No time for that! Take the stairs!” Scootaloo suggested. So the crusaders run up the stairs to the fourth floor and they headed over to the door which led to Orange residence. They quickly knocked on the door excitedly. “I can’t wait to see Babs again!”

“Ah know! Her and her new cutie mark too!” Apple Bloom said excitedly.

“We have to ask her everything!” Sweetie Belle said. “I really want to know how she got it!”

“I still have the feeling she’s a hairdresser.” Scootaloo said.

“Let’s not skip to conclusions, Scoots.” Apple Bloom advised her. “Cutie marks could mean anything.” Just then the door unlocks and the crusaders’ eyes got really wide.

The door finally opens and the crusaders cried out, “BABS! IT’S SO GOOD TO SEE YOU!” Just then their excitement dropped because it wasn’t Babs at the door.

It was some pink pony with blonde hair and a daisy on it. She also had a lot of piercings all over her ears, nose, and chin. She also had a red T-Shirt that says ‘Go Manehattan Huges!’, and one of her sleeves drooped over her arm revealing her shoulder. She had an uncaring look on her face as she sipped her soda. “Yo, what up?”

“Hey, Sunflower!” Apple Bloom said. “Is your sister home?”

Sunflower takes another sip of her soda and she burps. She then finally says, “Nnnope.” She then takes yet another sip of her soda. The crusaders all looked at eachother awkwardly.

“Sooo… where is she?” Apple Bloom asked.

Sunflower scratches on her cheek and says, “Umm… I dunno.” She shrugs as she takes another sip from her soda which seems to be empty.

“Well now that you’re done with that. How about it, cuz?” Apple Bloom asked.

Sunflower then removes the lid of her soda and starts to eat the ice cubes. “Ugh! You actually eat ice cubes?” Scootaloo asked.

“No.” Sunflower said. “I let them melt in my mouth.” There was an awkward silence, but Sunflower finally said, “But Babs did say she was going to see her friends at their… umm… little club or whatever.”

“Oh we know where that is!” Sweetie Belle said.

“Thank you so much for your help, Sunflower!” Apple Bloom said.

“Yeah, whatever.” Sunflower said as she closes the door.

“Wow she’s such an awkward pony!” Sweetie Belle commented.

“She was like that ever since her last coltfriend broke up with her.” Apple Bloom said. “Such a sad tale that ah do not want to repeat. Let’s just go see Babs over at her club house.” Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo both nod agreement and they walked off into the Manehattan streets.

The three fillies were wandering off through the city, and it was dusk out. They were wandering so much that they ended up in a bad neighborhood. All the ponies in the area seemed either tough, or poor. “Umm… Apple Bloom?” Sweetie Belle asked nervously. “Are you sure you know where you’re going?”

Apple Bloom hesitated to answer her. “Umm… sure ah do! Yeah, umm… we… umm…”

“Face it, Apple Bloom. We’re lost!” Scootaloo said.

“No! No we’re not lost!” Apple Bloom said in denial. “Ah remember perfectly on where the Manehattan CMC clubhouse is. It’s… it’s right down an alley, ah know that.” Apple Bloom turned towards the direction of a dark alley. The CMCs looked down and saw a cat chasing rats that were eating out of the trashbins.

“Umm… I don’t think that’s the right alley.” Sweetie Belle said.

“Well we’re not goin’ to know unless we try it out, right?” Apple Bloom asked as she began to walk down it. “C’mon, girls.”

“I sense a cliché coming.” Scootaloo said as she and Sweetie Belle followed. The CMCs walk down the dark alley, Sweetie Belle gets disgusted over a sleeping hobo in a cardboard box. Scootaloo spots a spider crawling down and gets startled by that. Didn’t think that tough filly had a fear of spiders.

“Are we almost there, Apple Bloom?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Maybe we should’ve stayed with Sunflower. At least it would be safe there.”

“No way!” Apple Bloom said. “We’re here to see Babs, and that’s what we’re goin’ to do. It’s just an alley. It’s not like it’s the Everfree Forest. There are no dangerous creatures here.”

“Mmmaybe not.” Sweetie Belle said nervously. “B-but… perhaps there might be something worse. Rarity did warn us about-“

“Heard about what?” a filly who talked in a punk voice asked. The CMCs looked behind them and saw a couple of hoodlum fillies. One of them was wearing a sports jersey and a sideways cap, and the other had a leather jacket with a white shirt and had spikey green hair. One of their cutie marks was a baseball bat, and the other one had a couple of spiky balls. “Well? We’re waiting for an answer.”

“Oh… umm… you know…” Apple Bloom said nervously as the CMCs started to back up slowly, and the hoodlums slowly walked towards them. “…we just… umm… umm…”

“Umm… umm… umm…” the jersey hoodlum teased them. “Listen to you! You can’t even talk! You have no idea why you’re here.”

“We’re here to look for our friend!” Scootaloo said angrily. “Now why don’t you back off and mind your own business?!”

“Or what?” the jersey hoodlum asked Scootaloo as she brought her face close down to her – so close she can breathe on her. “What can you do… tough gal?”

Scootaloo started to get nervous, so she ran over behind Sweetie Belle and cowarded behind her. “Umm… Sweetie Belle? You got anything?”

“ME?!” Sweetie Belle cried. “Apple Bloom, Scootaloo is using me as a pony shield!”

“You’re in the wrong neighborhood, kiddies!” the leather jacket filly said. “You’re in our territory, and you know what we do to trespassers?”

“Umm… become instant best friends with them and let them go free?” Sweetie Belle asked nervously.

“We take their allowances!” the leather jacket filly said mischievously.

“Oh… well… umm…” Apple Bloom said nervously as they bump onto a wall, and the only way left to go is their right. “Sorry to disappoint you gals, but… umm… we… we have no money on us. Sorry, ah guess you’ll have to… let us go then… steal from… somepony else?”

The jersey filly grabs onto Apple Bloom’s hair and says angrily, “If you don’t pay us, we’ll have to find some other means of payment. This bow might do nicely.” The jersey filly rips the bow right off Apple Bloom’s hair. “OW!” she yelled. “Hey! Give that back! That bow means more to me than anything!”

“Aww, what’s wrong?” the jersey filly asked in a playful tone. “Did your mommy give you this bow?”

Apple Bloom started to get really angry. Sweetie Belle stops her by storming right in front of her and she says, “Look, you girls got what you wanted. Now will you please let us go?! Can’t we all just get along?!”

“NO!” Scootaloo yelled. “YOU PUNKS BETTER GIVE APPLE BLOOM HER BOW BACK! OR SO HELP ME!”

“Or so help you indeed!” the leather jacket filly said mischievously as they started to walk even closer to the CMCs. “And what are YOU going to do about it?”

“The right thing to do!” Scootaloo said bravely, but that braveness turned into cowardness as she yells, “RUN!” As Scootaloo started running. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle give an embarrassment smile to the hoodlums as they then ran off too. The CMCs began scream and run through the alleys in an attempt to get away from the hoodlums. The hoodlums did indeed chase them, but the CMCs thought fast. Sweetie Belle quickly topples some trashbins over to slow them down, but that didn’t work, they just jumped over them.

“Over here!” Apple Bloom pointed as they turned… right into a dead-end. “It’s a dead end!” She yelled as she banged her hooves against the wall.

“Over here, huh?” Scootaloo asked sarcastically.

“Ah didn’t see this dead end! It was so dark!” Apple Bloom informed her.

“Well, well, well…” the hoodlum in the jersey said mischievously as they blocked the only exit. “Not a smart move if you ask us.”

“You have nowhere left to run, you twerps!” the leather jacket pony said. “I dare you to try anything!”

“Grab on my legs, girls.” Scootaloo instructed her friends, and they did so. Scootaloo then attempts to fly, but fails and they all topple over. The hoodlums started to laugh.

“Nice attempt, but you got nothing! Nothing can save you now!” the jersey hoodlum said mischievously.

“HEEEEELP!” the CMCs cried.

“Who are you yelling help to?” the jacket hoodlum asked. “There’s nopony here but us.” Just then, right out of the blue, the jacket hoodlum gets kicked in the face and collapses on the ground. “OW!” she cried.

“Brace Lends!” the jersey pony yelled at her friend. The jersey pony was next – a masked filly started to jump right over to the pony and was about to deliver a swift kick, but the jersey pony dodges out of the way and the red, brown, and white masked pony lands crouched with three of her hooves on the ground and one of the front ones spread out to the side. The masked pony smirks at the jersey pony, and the jersey pony smirks back. “You!” the jersey pony said.

The jersey pony starts charging towards the masked pony and was about to deliver a punch, but the masked pony was able to dodge out of the way every single time. The jersey pony finds a pipe in the pile of garbage. The masked pony gasps, but then the jersey pony bangs the pipe against a water shoot which caused the masked pony to shake and cringe. The CMCs cringed a bit too. The jersey pony then drops the pipe, she runs towards the masked pony, was about to finish her off, but the masked pony then jumps up into the air and lands right on top of the jersey pony, and crosses her hind legs onto the jersey pony’s neck, making her incapacitated. Right before she became incapacitated however, she accidently lets go of Apple Bloom’s bow and it flies across the alleyway, and Apple Bloom catches it and places it back on her head in excitement.

“Say uncle!” the masked pony demanded. “Go on! Say it!”

“AAAAH UNCLE!” the jersey pony yelled.

“Yous better leave these three fillies alone, you understand?!” the masked pony instructed them.

“AAAH!” the jersey pony cried. “Understood! Understood! Just let me go!” The masked pony jumps off from the jersey pony’s neck and lands right in front of the CMCs. The two hoodlums stood up from the ground and they ran away. The masked pony lets out a sigh of relief.

“Wow! That was amazing, masked stranger!” Scootaloo said excitedly.

“Yeah! I’ve never seen moves like that before!” Sweetie Belle said excitedly.

“Who are you?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Ain’t it obvious?” the masked pony asked as she removes her mask and it’s revealed to be Babs Seed.

Babs blows on her hair as the CMCs cry out in surprise, “BABS?!”

“Babs! H… ho… how did…” Apple Bloom stuttered.

“Surprised, cuz?” Babs asked.

“Babs, that was truly amazin’!” Apple Bloom yelled.

“Yeah, those were wicket moves, Babs!” Scootaloo said. “You sure showed those bullies!”

“Thanks, but we better not stay out here.” Babs suggested. “Wooden Bat and Brace Lends will be back with friends. Let’s head back to my place.” So the CMCs and Babs all went back to her place. They took a seat on the sofa as Sunflower was listening to her music on her MP3 player on one of the lounge chairs. “I am so glad you all are here, gals! I missed you all so much!”

“We missed you too, cuz!” Apple Bloom said.

“Yeah, but all that fighting out there.” Scootaloo said. “It was so awesome!”

“But how did you do that?!” Sweetie Belle yelled.

“When somepony like myself is raised in a place like Manehattan, she’s gotta know how to defend herself.” Babs said as she shows off her fighting stances to her friends, and at the final pose, she blows on her hair.

“How did you know where to find us though?” Apple Bloom asked. “We were all way deep inside that alley.”

“Oh trust me, gals, anypony could hear yous screamin’ from a mile away.” Babs chuckled. “I knew I recognized those voices. I had to do somethin’. What are yous all doing out here? It’s almost dark. I was just about to head back home to see yous!”

“Well we went out there to look for you.” Apple Bloom said. “Sunflower said you were back at the clubhouse. Ah… ah thought ah knew the way, but… ah guess ah forgot.” She blushed in embarrassment.

“That was the last time you lead us anywhere, Apple Bloom.” Scootaloo complained.

Babs’ smile starts to go away as she explains what she did before she rescued her friends. “Umm… yeah, I… I wasn’t at my clubhouse.”

“You weren’t?” Apple Bloom asked.

“No.” Babs said. “Today is Friday. Fridays are the days I stay at school late for my wrestling club.”

“Wait, hang on a second there.” Scootaloo stops her. “Since when were you in a wrestling club?”

“For a while.” Babs said. “I pretty much hesitated to join, but Sunny over there, WHO HAS HER MUSIC TOO LOUD AND IS GOING TO MAKESELF DEAF, insisted that I join. This was before I got my cutie mark here. Sunny said I should learn to defend myself against bullies like Wooden Bat and Brace Lends.”

“Rarity did warn us that Manehattan bullies are much worse than the bullies we have at home.” Sweetie Belle said.

“If you’re talking about Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, if yous think they’re bad, yous have NO idea what I have been through.” Babs said as she blows on her hair. “Unlike your bullies, my bullies aren’t rich and spoiled. They’re poor, so they beat up little fillies like yourselves for their allowances. Be glad I was there just in time.”

“Well we really appreciate it, Babs.” Apple Bloom smiled. “Thank you!”

“Yeah but it’s going to take a lot to get me to leave this apartment again!” Sweetie Belle said nervously as she hides behind one of the soda’s pillows.

“Just stay away from that neighborhood and you should be fine, Sweetie Belle.” Babs comforted her. “And stick to me. Nopony is immune to my scissors!”

“Your… scissors?” Sweetie Belle asked curiously.

“That was that attack I put on Wooden Bat.” Babs said. “I jumped on her and crossed my legs on her neck. It’s pretty much my unstoppable wrestling move.”

“Cool!” Scootaloo said. “Do you call it ‘The Scissors’ because your cutie mark is a pair of scissors?”

“No. That move is what got me my cutie mark in the first place.” Babs corrected her.

“WHAT?!” the crusaders all gasped in surprise.

“What? I didn’t tell yous that?” Babs asked.

“How is that possible?!” Sweetie Belle yelled as she jumped in front of Babs and began to shake her. “You got your pair of scissors from being a stylist! You and your hair, remember?!” Sweetie Belle then eventually stops shaking her.

Babs’ eyes roll around after all that shaking, and then she blows on her hair and says, “I never said that.”

“Wrestling though, Babs?” Apple Bloom asked. “Really? That’s your special talent?!”

“I know!” Babs said excitedly. “I couldn’t believe it myself! I was there on that wrestling ring, and I was so nervous, but once I gave out that signature move on that pony, that’s when I got this sweet little thing!” She points to her cutie mark. “After that day I’ve been dreaming of being a professional wrestler. I’ve been going to all the professional wrestling matches. I wanna be just like my hero – The Masked Gluestick!”

“HA!” Scootaloo laughed. “What kind of name is that?!”

“HEY!” Babs yelled in Scootaloo’s face. “Don’t you dare mock the name of The Masked Gluestick! She’s the best wrestler in all of Equestria! She’s my idol. I want her to teach me everything she knows when I get that good.”

“But why though?” Apple Bloom asked. “How did she come up with that name – The Masked Gluestick?”

“Once she wins a fight, she sticks to being a winner.” Babs said as she visions The Masked Gluesticks’ moves. “When she looks into her opponent’s eyes, she’s stuck looking at them. Once she pins a pony down to the ground, that pony is pretty much stuck there, and when she-“

“Alright, alright, we get it, Babs.” Scootaloo cuts her off.

“She is such an amazing pony!” Babs said. “I wanna be just like her!”

“Well if that’s what makes you happy, Babs. We’re happy.” Apple Bloom said. “No matter what your destiny is, we’ll always accept it.”

“Heh, thanks cuz!” Babs said. “I just wish everypony else thought that way.”

“Who doesn’t think that way?” Sweetie Belle asked. “I’m sure your friends accept you.”

“Oh… right… yeah… them.” Babs said upsettingly.

“W-what’s wrong?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Nothing.” Babs lied. “Hey, I got an idea! My club is going to host its monthly Junior Wrestling Tournament. Winner gets four free tickets to the next wrestling championship at the Huges’ Stadium on Sunday.”

“SUNDAAAAAAAAY!” Scootaloo cries out in an echoy voice. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle both look at her awkwardly, but Babs chuckles.

“Yep! Scootaloo gets what I’m talking about!” Babs said. “You three should totally watch me perform! I could use the enthusiasm.”

“We’ll be there, Babs! Don’t you worry!” Apple Bloom nodded in agreement. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle both nodded back.

“SUNNY!” Babs then yelled. “Please turn down your volume! I could hear your music from your headphones!”

“Hmm?” Sunny asked as she lifts one headphone out letting out all the music. “What was that, Babs?” Babs rolls her eyes and shakes her head.

“What has happened to you, sis?” Babs asked upsettingly.

The next day came, and Sunflower brings the four fillies to Babs’ school where her wrestling club was about to start. The club was home to all sorts of strong colts and fillies. Some are small but fast which is good for their reflexes, and some are slow but big which makes them more effective, and there was even a fat one but he’ll go with the ‘big’ category. Babs was wearing her brown, red, and white mask on and she also had tights on which matched her mask.

“Wow, there’s a lot of tough looking ponies here.” Sweetie Belle commented.

“Well, ah hope you’re ready, Babs!” Apple Bloom said.

Babs tucks in a loose piece of her hair in her mask, and then she says, “Yep, I’m ready to go! But to be honest… I’m a little nervous.”

“Why? Haven’t you done this before?” Scootaloo asked.

“Well this is the first time I’m wrestling and any of my friends are watching.” Babs said. “It was always just my sister that comes and watches.”

“Wait… none of your friends come and support you?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“It’s a long story.” Babs said. “I’d rather not talk about it right now.”

“Don’t worry, Babs. We won’t stress you over it.” Apple Bloom comforted her. “Just go on and… do what wrestlers do.”

“Wrestle?” Babs asked.

“Heh, right.” Apple Bloom chuckled embarrassingly.

“Time to put that cutie mark into action!” Scootaloo said excitedly.

“Heh, right of course.” Babs said. “It’s a shame I didn’t get the same cutie mark as you gals. It would’ve been nice being a crusader forever.”

“You’re still a crusader, Babs. Don’t let anypony tell you otherwise.” Apple Bloom said.

“C’mon, B. Scissiorhooves! We’re just about to begin!” the coach informed her.

“I’ll be right there, coach!” Babs called out.

“B. Scissorhooves?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Yeah, that’s my wrestling name. Every wrestler’s gotta have a cool name.” Babs said. “Well, wish me luck!” She runs over to the ring and climbs in. The CMCs walk over to the bleachers and sit down next to Sunflower.

“Alright, Junior Wrestling Tournament Round 4 – B. Scissorhooves vs. Buff Buffalo!” the coach called out.

“You’re going down, Scissorhooves!” Buff Buffalo taunted her.

“As if!” Babs teased. “You don’t want what I did to yous last time, do ya?”

“Well it’s not going to happen!” Buff yelled. “I barely ate breakfast this morning!”

“The most important meal of the day? Yeah, like THAT was a smart move.” Babs teased.

“Wrestlers, get ready!” the coach called out. “And…” The bell then dings as the two begin to place their hooves on one another’s shoulders and they groaned as they tried to take one another down.

While the CMCs watched Babs and Buff wrestle, Apple Bloom was feeling a wee bit upset. “What’s wrong, Apple Bloom?” Scootaloo asked.

“Ah was just thinkin’ of Babs’ friends.” Apple Bloom said.

“Yeah I was too.” Scootaloo said.

“No you weren’t.” Sweetie Belle corrected her.

“Yeah, you’re right. I wasn’t.” Scootaloo said upsettingly.

“But that was twice already. We try to bring up Babs’ friends, but she just keeps dropping the subject.” Apple Bloom said. “Ah think she’s hidin’ somethin’ from us.”

“You think Babs and her friends had some sort of fight or something?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Ah’m not sure.” Apple Bloom said. “But ah want to get to the bottom of this. We should go to the Manehattan CMC Clubhouse and see what’s goin’ on.”

“I agree.” Sweetie Belle nodded.

“As long as you don’t lead the way this time, I’m cool with it.” Scootaloo said.

“ONE… TWO… THREE! B. SCISSORHOOVES WINS!” the coach cries out as Buff was lying on the floor and Babs had her hind legs around Buff’s neck.

“SAY UNCLE!” Babs demanded. “GO ON! SAY UNCLE!”

“UNCLE! UNCLE!” Buff yelled.

Babs releases her grip on Buff and she yells out, “Did you see that gals?! Did you see me?!”

“We sure did!” Scootaloo called out. “You were awesome!”

“GO BABS!” Apple Bloom yelled.

“Woo hoo!” Sweetie Belle cheered. She then looks over and glares at Sunflower as she was just sitting there listening to her music.

Sweetie Belle elbows her, and Sunflower asked, “Huh? Wha… oh… woo! Go, sis! Yeah!” She ‘cheered’. Babs sighs as she takes off her mask, blows on her hair, and climbs off stage.

The CMCs all ran over to her and gave her a towel and some water. “Everything alright, Babs?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Meh.” Babs shrugged. “Usually I do better than that.”

“Are you kidding me?!” Scootaloo asked surprisingly. “That was super awesome! How could you do better?”

“Believe me, Buff Buffalo is an easy one to take down.” Babs said.

“You and your scissor moves are absolutely full of it!” Buff yelled out angrily.

“But after you keep mentioning my friends, it kinda slowed me down.” Babs admitted.

“Oh we’re sorry, Babs.” Apple Bloom said. “We’re just a little bit concerned to why you haven’t been hangin’ with them a lot lately.”

“Well… I’m not sure what to think of it.” Babs said. “I mean… now that I have my destiny, I didn’t think I was needed in the crusaders anymore. I still went to visit every so often, but… they seemed to be too busy to hang out. I wanted to help still, but it would seem… they don’t need me anymore.”

“Well phooey!” Sweetie Belle said.

“Sweetie Belle!” Apple Bloom cries out in surprise.

“Sorry about the foul language, but Babs, you’re better than that!” Sweetie Belle explained. “You three had something in common before, but that shouldn’t change a thing! You three will always be friends, and there’s nothing that can change that!”

Babs thought about what Sweetie Belle just said and then she smiles, “You’re right, Sweetie Belle! I have to see my friends! No matter how busy they’ll be, I’ll always be there right by their side! Right after this tournament’s over, we’ll go and see them right away!”

“Why not now?” Apple Bloom suggested.

“Now?!” Babs shouted out in surprise. “But… the tickets! The wrestling! I cannot miss out on that!”

“But if you really want to see them, why not do it now?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Because this wrestling means everything to me!” Babs said. “And that’s not all, this time these tickets come with backstage passes! I get to meet The Masked Gluestick – my hero! This… I cannot miss out on! Also, I promised you gals I’d take you!” The CMCs all looked at eachother in confusion. “Don’t worry, gals, this thing doesn’t usually take long. I just have to do this one round, and then the final round will be tonight at 6 where I’ll win us the tickets! Right after, we’ll go and see my friends!”

“B. Scissorhooves! You’re up!” the coach called out.

“I promise.” Babs said to the CMCs right before she ran up to the ring for her last round of the day. The CMCs all felt bad and thought Babs knew better than that.

After the match was over, the CMCs led by Babs walked out into the Manehattan streets and she led them to the CMC Clubhouse down an alleyway. “Ya see, cousin, it’s the fourth left alley on Muzzle Drive.” Babs informed her.

“Of course!” Apple Bloom slapped her head with an obvious tone. “All this time ah thought it was Muzzle Street! How could ah be so foolish?”

“Hey, it happens, Apple Bloom.” Sweetie Belle said. “Accidents happen.”

“Yeah even if that accident did almost lead us to our doom.” Scootaloo teased.

“Not helping!” Sweetie Belle whispered to her.

“There it is, Ponyville crusaders!” Babs pointed to the clubhouse. The clubhouse was mainly an abandoned shack over at the alleyway that was filled with rags and chimes and decorations. “Ain’t she a beauty? Very secluded.”

“It’s very nice, Babs!” Sweetie Belle said. “I can see you three decorated it some more since our last visit!”

“I just hope your friends are happy to see us.” Scootalooo said.

“Are you kiddin’?” Babs asked excitedly. “Bubble Bop and Cloudy Thunder LOVE yous! It would be pretty amazin’ to catch up on old times, so don’t worry about it.”

Meanwhile inside the clubhouse as Babs and the CMCs walk in, Bubble Bop and Cloudy Thunder were sitting upstairs with a chart of the things they did to attempt to earn their cutie marks. Bubble Pop is a pink unicorn filly with dark blueberry hair with pigtails and eyes similar to Fluttershy’s. Cloudy Thunder is a gray pegasus colt with white silver hair with a similar style to Scootaloo’s.

“Alright, Cloudy.” Bubble started. “So, since sheep sheering didn’t work, mainly because there’s no sheep in Manehattan, it looks like it’s time to try out bobsledding.”

“Bobsledding?” Cloudy asked. “We’ll need snow for that, and it’s in the middle of Spring! We should’ve done bobsledding earlier.”

“Alright, genius. What do you expect us to do?” Bubble asked.

“I suggest quilling.” Cloudy suggested.

Bubble facehooves herself and says, “I told you, quilling isn’t even a real thing. It’s not even a real word!”

“I know, but it’s making up an occupation.” Cloudy said. “Quilling is about taking feathers off of the pigeons and seagulls flying around town and making quills off them!”

“That’s about the lamest thing I’ve ever heard!” Bubble complained.

“Oh yeah? Do tell!” Cloudy dared her.

“Well first off, you could just use your own feathers instead.” Bubble informed him.

“If I kept pulling off my own feathers, it would stop me from flying, duh!” Cloudy reminded her.

“And second, you can’t just make up an occupation! You can’t just make up a destiny, or a cutie mark! It doesn’t work that way!” Bubble explained.

“Sure it does!” Cloudy corrected her.

“No it doesn’t!” Bubble argued with him.

“What up, crusaders?” Babs asked excitedly as she walked into the room. “Look who the cat dragged in!”

Just then the crusaders walk in behind her and waved to them. “Hey, Manehattan crusaders!” the CMCs all said excitedly.

“Fellow crusaders!” Bubble and Cloudy said excitedly. Babs held her arms out hoping for a hug, but the duo just walk right pass her, ignore her, and went over to greet their friends from Ponyville.

“You didn’t say you girls were coming!” Bubble said excitedly.

“Ah thought Babs would’ve told you?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Well regardless, it is AWESOME to have you all here!” Cloudy said excitedly. “We’re in the middle of a pickle right now in deciding what we should do next. Perhaps you can give us some suggestions?”

Babs clears her throat and says, “Well, maybe I can give you some pointers on-“

“What do you girls think?” Cloudy asked, interrupting Babs. “We have a huge list here on this chart. We done most of these already, but there’s still bobsledding, quilling, archery, pilots, news anchors, talk show hosts…”

“It’s becoming slightly difficult to think of something.” Bubble said.

“Well, we already have our cutie marks.” Scootaloo said.

“Perhaps we can tell you on how we got them, so maybe it could help you think of something?” Sweetie Belle suggested.

“That’s a great idea, Sweetie Belle!” Cloudy said.

“Yeah, I wouldn’ve thought better myself!” Bubble said.

“Umm, hello?” Babs asked. “Anypony want to hear my-“

“Tell us in detail on how you got your cutie marks?” Bubble asked the Ponyville CMCs but while cutting Babs off.

“Well it wasn’t anythin’ we expected.” Apple Bloom said. “Ah guess perhaps the great thing about cutie marks is not expectin’ how to get it.”

“Really now?” Bubble asked.

“Yep!” Scootaloo said. “It all started on a day like any other. Our friend Pipsqueak needed our help to run for Student Pony President.”

“Interesting, interesting. Go on.” Bubble said as she was taking notes.

“Uhh, Bubble?” Babs asked.

“Go on girls, you can tell us!” Bubble said.

“So at the school our former class bully Diamond Tiara was also running for class president.” Sweetie Belle said.

“Cloudy?” Babs asked.

“Wow, a former bully? What happened?” Cloudy asked. Babs was getting real tired of getting interrupted, so she knew she had to do something. She blows on her hair, and awaits her moment.

“She was mainly thinking of herself.” Scootaloo said. “She was giving promises of more of her, blackmailing, giving false promises…”

Just then, Babs cuts her out but jumping in the middle and explaining the rest of the story. “…and then it turns out Pipsqueak won, Silver Spoon cut connections with her, and then Diamond Tiara started to feel bad about herself.” Everypony got quiet. Bubble and Cloudy glared at her and the CMCs felt in an awkward position. “What? That’s really how the story went.”

“Umm… yeah, I guess you’re not getting it while we were completely ignoring you.” Bubble said to Babs.

“Huh? What do ya mean?” Babs asked as she blows on her hair.

“I mean I don’t know why you keep coming back, counting you’re not a crusader anymore.” Cloudy said.

“Of course not! That’s what I thought!” Babs said. “But that didn’t mean we couldn’t be friends anymore.”

“I dunno, Babs.” Bubble said. “Do friends keep ignoring their messages? Not popping up for visits? Not giving advice to their friends in need?”

“I came to visit!” Babs corrected them.

“Yeah only when you keep winning those tickets to the wrestling tournaments!” Cloudy said.

“You keep saying it yourself, ‘Oh yo, yo I got these tickets, I don’t want them to go to waste so here, take the extra seats’.” Bubble mocked her.

“I didn’t want them to come to waste.” Babs said. “I thought you’d be interested, but yous keeping saying no.”

“That’s because we’re not INTERESTED in wrestling, Babs!” Bubble informed her. “We’re not into the hobbies you’re interested in! Wrestling is boring!”

“How dare you?!” Babs yelled in an offended tone.

“Uhh, Babs?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Wrestling is the greatest sport ever!” Babs yelled. “How can you not like it?”

“Because it’s all FAKE!” Bubble said. “None of it’s real! It’s all staged!”

“Wrestling is NOT fake!” Babs informed them as she stamped her hoof on the floor. “And you think it was easy to sell those extra tickets! I sometimes have to sit next big obnoxious ponies with a severe body odder!”

“That’s not our problem, Babs.” Cloudy said. “But is that all we’re useful for? To fill in those extra seats? You’ve been more interested in wrestling than you’ve been interested in us! Do we mean anything to you anymore?”

“B-but, but I-“ Babs stuttered.

“Of course we don’t.” Bubble answered for her. “Ever since Babs got her cutie mark she’s only been thinking about herself and what she’s interested in. We were only there to help her fill that void of emptiness that was her flank.” Babs upsettingly looks down at her cutie mark. “Now that the void’s been filled, she doesn’t need us anymore. We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders, and we will always help out ponies in need to help find their destinies!”

“Yeah, we’re going to cutie marks just like our Ponyville branch of crusaders!” Cloudy said. “We want to always help ponies out in their time of need, with or without you, Babs! Now go back to your fake wrestling, and leave us alone!”

Babs begins to tear up, and then she gets angry. “FINE! If that’s how you want to be, then… then…” She then runs away.

“Babs, wait!” the Ponyville CMCs yelled out.

“Forget about her, she’s no crusader. She gave up on us ever since she got that cutie mark!” Bubble said angrily.

“Just face the fact, girls.” Cloudy said. “She was cool once. She was… really an inspiration, but now she’s not, ever since she got her cutie mark.” Cloudy both walked back to their drawing board. The Ponyville CMCs all looked at eachother upsettingly, and knew they needed to fix this.

The CMCs all looked at Bubble and Cloudy angrily and Apple Bloom said angrily, “Ah can’t believe you two!”

“Uhh, what? You can’t believe US TWO?!” Bubble asked surprisingly.

“It was Babs that kept taking us for granted!” Cloudy said.

“Well we don’t need her anymore.” Bubble said. “Not as a crusader, not as a friend.”

“Is this really what you want?” Sweetie Belle asked.

Bubble and Cloudy both looked at eachother and then they sighed. “No.”

“We just want things to be back the way they were.” Cloudy said upsettingly. “We want the old Babs back. The one who wanted to help others fill their flanks with no more blank.”

“Well we can fix this!” Scootaloo said. “Babs kept saying how much she misses you. She knows she made mistakes, but she really wants you back.”

“Well if she really wants that, then let’s see her come back here tonight.” Bubble said.

“Tonight?” Scootaloo asked.

“Every Saturday night we used to have a movie night at her place.” Bubble said.

“That was until she kept going to her late night wrestling club meets.” Cloudy said. “She stopped inviting us over.”

“What if we got her to do movie nights again?” Sweetie Belle suggested.

“It’s going to take more than you just persuading her.” Bubble said. “We want our old friend back.”

“So… you want us to… remove her cutie mark?” Scootaloo asked.

“NO!” Bubble yelled. “No, no, no. That’s too harsh. I’m just saying, how about getting her not to perform at the next wrestling match at her club? Maybe she can remember who her true friends are.”

“Then let us prove it to you!” Apple Bloom said. “We’ll head to Babs’ apartment right now, and we can prove how much she needs you.”

Cloudy and Bubble both looked at eachother and nodded. Cloudy then said, “It’s a deal. Let us go get our fellow crusader back!”

“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS FOREVER!” all five of them yelled out as they jumped into the air and froze in mid air cheerfully.

Just then, the cheeriness stopped after Sweetie Belle asks, “Umm, ok, how are we doing this?”

“I have no idea.” Scootaloo admitted.

“I’m not even flapping my wings right now!” Cloudy freaked out.

“Ok, ah think ah’m scared!” Apple Bloom freaked out.

“Let us get this problem straightened out, and then we can get Babs.” Bubble said.

So after they got their problem straightened out, they rushed over to Babs’ apartment in an attempt to look for her. They kept calling out her name as they searched the apartment, but they couldn’t find her anywhere. “Anypony find anything?” Bubble called out.

“No, nothing.” Scootaloo said as she checks inside a shoebox for Babs.

“Not in here!” Apple Bloom called out from inside a bathtub as she opened the curtain.

Cloudy was in the kitchen and he checks inside the toaster. “Nope, nothing.” But then, two pieces of toast pop out of the toaster. “Ok, really, who leaves a unsupervised toaster running?”

“Sweetie Belle, did you find anything?!” Bubble called out, but there was no answer. “Sweetie Belle?” But then Sweetie Belle was spotted on the sofa listening to Sunflower’s MP3 player. She was dancing on the sofa as she was listening to the music. Bubble then lifts one headphone and yells, “SWEETIE BELLE!”

“WHA!” Sweetie Belle yelled surprisingly. She then chuckles embarrassingly and says, “Umm, she’s not on this song.”

“It’s no use! She ain’t here!” Apple Bloom said.

“If she’s not here, then there’s only one place she could be.” Bubble said.

“The wrestling!” they all yelled.

“See? Babs obviously doesn’t feel sorry about what she did!” Cloudy said angrily as he nibbles on a piece of toast. “There she goes, thinking of herself again!”

“This does NOT prove anything!” Sweetie Belle yelled as she removes Sunflower’s headphones from her ears. “Babs DOES care about you! You just don’t see it!”

“Calm down, Sweetie Belle.” Scootaloo advised her.

“NO! Calm is the exact OPPOSITE of what I should be doing right now!” Sweetie Belle yelled.

“Scootaloo is right. We need to stay calm and collected.” Bubble said. “And face the fact that Babs only cares about her wrestling.”

“Now hold on a minute! We can still prove to you that Babs cares about you!” Apple Bloom said.

“Face it, Apple Bloom! She’s done with us.” Cloudy said.

“NO!” Sweetie Belle yelled as she had tears in her eyes. “I will not stand by and see fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders fall apart over a cutie mark! If you won’t do anythin’ about, then I will! I’m going to walk through the Manehattan streets with my head held up high! We’re going to the school to get Babs!”

“And what’s that gonna do?” Bubble asked.

“No, ah think ah get what she’d doin’.” Apple Bloom said. “If you showed Babs how much she means to you, she’ll do the same thing back! Watchin’ her perform might be the best way to do it.”

“And how is that supposed to help us feel better?” Bubble asked.

“Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do.” Scootaloo said. “You need to do good things to get good things back in return. Maybe if you three just talked it out, the friendship will be fixed!”

“It’s true.” Apple Bloom said. “A cutie mark shouldn’t break friendship apart. Perhaps Babs felt that she was bein’ neglected because she didn’t think you cared about her destiny that much. Babs needs all the support she can get.”

Cloudy and Bubble both looked at eachother and then they smiled and nodded. Bubble then said, “Let’s go get our friend back!”

So the CMCs all rushed out into the Manehattan streets, and it was almost dark. They wished to get to the school as soon as possible so they needed a ride. “Shall we hail a cab?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Maybe. How much money do you have?” Cloudy asked.

“Well if you add Sweetie Belle’s, Apple Bloom’s, and mine’s change together, it’ll bring about a total of nothing.” Scootaloo teased in an unamused way.

“Ok so we obviously don’t have enough money for a cab.” Apple Bloom said. “How about we take a bus?”

“There’s no bus in the city that’ll take us to even near the school district fast enough.” Cloudy said.

“Looks like we’re goin’ to have to hoof it.” Apple Bloom suggested.

“I know a shortcut to the school. Follow me.” Bubble instructed them. So they all began to run. The sun was really setting, and Sweetie Belle was getting kinda nervous.

“It’s almost dark! Why are we doing this?” she asked.

“Don’t worry, this shortcut will help.” Bubble said as they ran through an alleyway.

“Are you sure?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Sure I’m sure.” Bubble said as they continued running and zig-zagging through the alleyway corners. “I’ve taken this path many times!”

“I dunno, something seems awfully off about this alley.” Scootaloo said.

“Offly aw?” Cloudy asked.

“What?” Scootaloo asked.

“Nothing, I just confused myself.” Cloudy said. Just then, the five young ponies get ambushed by two familiar looking fillies. They all stopped running immediately like they hit a hand-break, and they all banged into eachother back to front. Bubble who was up front topples over onto the ground right in front of the two fillies.

“Well, well, well, who do we have here?” Wooden Bat asked mischievously.

“Oh no! Not these two again!” Scootaloo facehooves herself.

“Yes, these two again!” Brace Lends said mischievously.

“What do you want, Wooden Bat?” Bubble asked angrily. “We have a minor emergency right now.”

“Well if you wish to come through, then you have to pay the toll.” Wooden Bat said as she flicked a bit into the air and onto her hoof.

“We’ve paid you enough, Wooden Bat! Let us through!” Cloudy demanded.

“Oooooh, I’m so scared!” Wooden Bat teased. “Whatever shall we do? A bunch of weakling little ponies think they can best us!”

“Not to mention two of them are a bunch of blank flanks!” Brace Lends added.

“Where’s your friend Babs, huh?” Wooden Bat asked in a squeaky voice. “Where’s the former blank flank? Did she leave you alone? Oh boo hoo!”

Bubble started to get teary eyed, but Cloudy stood up to them. “We’re going to get her back!”

“Why bother? She’s gone! Get used to it!” Wooden Bat said. “Nopony wants to be friends with a bunch of blank flanks like yourselves!” Cloudy then started to feel sad.

“HEY!” Apple Bloom yelled angrily. “We have our cutie marks, and we’re friends with them!”

“Yeah! Just because they don’t have their cutie marks yet doesn’t mean they’re not better than you!” Scootaloo yelled angrily.

“Just wait until they find out what their destinies truly are!” Sweetie Belle yelled. “You’re just jealous because your destinies are already here and you don’t even like them!”

“What does that hoofball bat mean anyway?” Scootaloo asked. “Hoofball? Why don’t we see you playing on a professional hoof ball team?”

“And those spike balls?” Apple Bloom asked. “Are you good at jewelry? Ah can see by the amount of piercings you are. How about you two stop bullyin’ other ponies, and go on and make yourselves successful in what you already have?”

“SUHT UP!” Wooden Bat yelled. “We know what we’re good at! You don’t know us!”

“Besides, who would want punk ponies like us to make jewelry for them?” Brace asked.

“Or go on a professional hoofball team?” Wooden asked. “We’re hoodlums, and that’s all we’ll always be! NOW GIVE US YOUR MONEY OR WE’LL POUND YA!”

“We don’t have any money.” Apple Bloom said with courage. “Now if you want to pound us, go ahead.”

“We’re not afraid of you!” Scootaloo said.

“I am!” Sweetie Belle said fearfully.

“But think about it, what can you accomplish by poundin’ us?” Apple Bloom asked.

“To gain the satisfaction that we’re better than you!” Wooden said angrily.

“Say your last words, Cutie Mark Crybabies!” Brace said angrily.

The CMCs all held eachother for comfort on what they expect to happen next, but luckily for them, help came. Babs shows up with her B. Scissorhooves outfit on as she yells out, “HEY! That’s not the way you talk to MY FRIENDS!”

“Oh great, you again!” Wooden said in an annoyed tone.

“How smart of you come up to us instead of catching us offguard like last time.” Brace said sarcastically. “Now we know we can put you down!”

“You really think so?” Babs asked sarcastically.

“We know so!” Brace said.

“Are you sure you’re not being caught offguard right now?” Babs asked mischievously.

“What in Sombra’s name is she talking about?” Wooden asked. Just then, the CMCs all tackle the bullies. The bullies begin to yell out in confusion as the CMCs were punching them, biting them, and smashing them on the head with a trashbin. “AAAAH!” Wooden cried out. “You little blank flanks! You think you’ll get away with this?!”

“We just have one question for you.” Scootaloo said mischievously.

“And what might that be?” Wooden asked.

Scootaloo and Cloudy both nod at eachother as they tug their legs around their necks. “SAY UNCLE!” Scootaloo and Cloudy both yelled out. The bullies started to gasp and yell in pain until they eventually said it. They finally remove their grasps, and then the bullies stand up and begin to run away.

“THIS ISN’T OVER, CRUSADERS!” Wooden yelled. “We’ll get our revenge!”

“And we’ll be ready for you!” Bubble yelled out. “But just remember what our friends said – look into your destinies! It’s not too late for you!” And then they were finally out of reach.

“Is everypony ok?” Babs asked worriedly as she removes her masks.

“Babs…” Cloudy said angrily at her. “You really think you learned your lesson, huh?”

“Went all the way back to the wrestling match.” Bubble said angrily. “You thought you’d get away with it.”

“Uhh, what?” Babs asked.

“Well we have one thing to say to you, tough gal!” Cloudy said angrily. Just then, Bubble and Cloudy both hugged her, and he eventually says, “Thank you!”

“Yeah, Babs! Thank you!” Bubble said excitedly. “You came back for us!”

“Of course I came back for yous.” Babs said happily. “You’re my friends, and you always will be. I guess I just forgot about that for a while when I got too caught up on my destiny. My destiny shouldn’t keep me away from my friends. How can I have a hobby and an occupation, if there’s nopony to share it with?”

“We’re sorry too, Babs.” Cloudy said. “It was pretty selfish of us to keep saying we’re not interested in what you do.”

“We always support you, Babs, no matter what.” Bubble said.

“And I always support you too.” Babs said. “I just… I just thought now that I have a cutie mark… I wasn’t… you know… a part of the group anymore.”

“Are you kidding?” Bubble asked. “You’re ALWAYS welcomed into the Cutie Mark Crusaders! You’re the one who inspired us to become one!”

“If it weren’t for you, we’d be alone, getting bullied by Wooden Bat and Brace Lends all over again.” Cloudy said.

“So those were the bullies that bullied you about your blank flank, huh cuz?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Well… those were two of them.” Babs said as she blows on her hair.

“So there’s more?” Scootaloo asked. “How much more?”

Babs and her friends all looked at eachother and smiled. “You gals don’t wanna know.” She said as the three of them laughed.

The next night came, and all of the CMCs were at the wrestling ring watching The Masked Gluestick fighting off another wrestler, and she was beating him epically. The CMCs all cheered for her as she finally won the round. “WOO HOO!” Babs cried out. “GO MASKED GLUESTICK! YOU ROCK!”

“You were right all along, Babs! This sport ain’t half bad!” Bubble said.

“We should’ve given it a fair chance!” Cloudy said. “Even though it is fake.”

“Uhh, what did you say, Cloudy?” Babs asked in an insulted tone.

“Nothing.” Cloudy lied as he smiled embarrassingly. Babs glares at him.

“Well thanks for inviting us over after winning the tickets!” Bubble said.

“No problem!” Babs said. “And starting next week, I was thinking of having that movie night you wanted!”

“And it was so nice of Rarity to get us some extra tickets!” Sweetie Belle said excitedly.

“I’ll say!” Scootaloo agreed.

“Who knew Coco Pommel had connections to the wrestling community?” Apple Bloom asked.

“Well, who else made those fabulous outfits?” Rarity asked as she elbows Coco’s arm while standing next to her.

“I need to use the pot, sis.” Sunflower said as she stood up from her seat. As she walks out into the isle, she accidently bangs into another pony who had a ton of food.

“HEY WATCH IT!” the stallion yelled.

“Oh, I’m so sorry!” Sunflower said worryingly.

Just then, the stallion smiled at her and said, “It’s no big deal. Accidents happen. At least… heh… I didn’t spill anything. Sunflower giggles and blushes.

“Well at least that should end the loud music.” Babs said.

“What can we say, cuz?” Apple Bloom asked as she puts her arm around her. “Our destinies are probably just around the corner.

“That’s right!” Babs said.

“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS FOREVER!” all six of the crusaders cried out as they jumped into the air again and froze as they yelled it out. After a few seconds… well… it’s self explanatory.

“Ok I REALLY still don’t get how we’re doing this.” Scootaloo said.

Author's Note

It's the moment we've all been waiting for: a Babs chapter! An epic way of having Babs Seed to finally return to the series huh? Well this is one of the hopes I'm getting for season 6 that Babs finally returns. No not an honorable mention or a background appearance, I mean an actual speaking appearance. And with her cutie mark no less! Just to let you know, I made up her destiny, I have no idea what Babs actually does. I just thought wrestling and having "the scissors" move was a nice little plot twist, cause Babs is a tough little filly. Having her wrestle seems pretty epic! We got to meet her fellow crusaders for the first time, and even two of her bullies that we keep hearing about! Those two make Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon seem like saints! Don't they?

I also wanted to introduce Sunflower, Bab's sister, because why not? She mentioned she has a sister. Sunflower's personality in this story was much different from Sunflower's personality in one of my past stories: The Friendship Mafia. As Sunflower in that story was pretty tough and couldn't take no for an answer much like Babs, in here, she had more of that "I don't care" attitude. Who knows how Sunflower actually acts?

Link to thatguy's: http://thatguy1945.deviantart.com/

Link to kuren's: http://kuren247.deviantart.com/

Flutterspy

(I'm letting you know now, this is NOT a shipping image, capiche?)

One faithful day over at Fluttershy’s cottage, she was making lunch for her animal friends, and Starlight Glimmer was helping her out. Starlight uses her magic to cut up some veggies, and afterwards she yells, “Order up!” As she uses her magic to toss the veggies into bowls that Fluttershy was holding, and then she gives the bowls to her animals and they started to eat them. “Success!” Starlight cheered.

“Starlight, thank you so much for offering to help feed my animals.” Fluttershy said.

“Hey, I have nothing better to do.” Starlight shrugged.

“Really?” Fluttershy asked.

“No that was a joke, I have a lot on my plate, but I’m always willing to help out a friend!” Starlight said.

Just then, they both hear a loud tapping sound. Up ahead, Angel was angrily tapping his foot on the ground. “Oh, Angel! I almost forgot!”

“What are you talking about, Fluttershy? We just fed him!” Starlight reminded her.

“I know, but Angel really wants his dessert.” Fluttershy said. “I said to him after he finishes all of his food, he can have dessert.”

“Umm…” Starlight said as she walked over to Angel’s dish and it was still nearly full. “You call that done?” She then taps on the pile of veggies and it topples over.

“Well… he at least ate five bites, and that’s good enough for me.” Fluttershy said.

“Are you kidding?!” Starlight yelled. “You spoil this bunny!” Just then, Angel sticks his tongue out at Starlight. “HEY! Do that again to my face! I dare you!”

Fluttershy stops her when she wraps her arm around Starlight’s neck. “I’m sorry, Starlight. He’s normally a very kind little bunny!”

“Kind? Really?” Starlight asked in an unamused tone. “He begs for your attention, he demands a lot of stuff, and what does he have to show for it? He doesn’t even thank you.”

“Umm… he’s a bunny. He doesn’t talk.” Fluttershy reminded her.

“I mean he should at least show that he’s thankful, but instead he throws his dish aside, raids your fridge for something unhealthy, and makes a mess in the process.” Starlight said as Angel does all of that as she said it.

“Ok, Starlight. I know Angel does seem a little bit… bossy at times, but I know he’s a good little bunny and he loves me!” Fluttershy said.

“You spoil him, Fluttershy.” Starlight said. “Have you always been that way?”

“Well… it’s actually funny that you mention that.” Fluttershy chuckled. “You see-“ Just then Fluttershy’s cutie mark begins to vibrate. “Sweet Celestia! The map is calling for me!”

“Well we better not keep it waiting!” Starlight said excitedly.

“Right! Let’s go!” Fluttershy said as they both begin to run out of the cottage, but then Fluttershy immediately stops at the door, and Starlight bumps into her in the process, and bounces off like she hit a rubber ball.

Her eyes rolled around, and then she rubbed her muzzle as she asks, “What’s wrong now?”

“Umm… I should probably give Angel his dessert first before I go.” Fluttershy said as she chuckles embarrassingly. Starlight then sighs and facehooves herself.

Over at the castle, Fluttershy joins up with Pinkie, Twilight, and Rarity in the map room. She saw the their cutie marks were vibrating too. “Oh my!” Flutttershy said surprisingly. “I guess this means we’re all going somewhere. How wonderful!”

“I KNOW RIGHT?!” Pinkie yelled. “We just doubled the fun by doubling the amount of ponies we usually get on these map trips! But it also means two less ponies are joining us, but I’ll just stay focused on the glass half full!” Pinkie held up a glass of water.

“Um, Pinkie, darling? That glass is completely full.” Rarity pointed out.

“I KNOW!” Pinkie said excitedly. “That makes it double the half amount! It’s a doubly day!”

“Ooooh, I am so excited to finally see what kind of friendship problems there needs to be solving!” Twilight said excitedly as she picks up a pile of books with her magic. “I’ve been researching lately some of the long-lost magic from Starswirl the Bearded’s castle, and it might come in handy to where we’re going!”

“So… where are we all going?” Fluttershy asked.

“Actually, Fluttershy, this time it’s going to be different.” Twilight said.

“Doubly different?” Pinkie asked.

“I suppose you can say that.” Twilight said as they all walked over to the map and observed it.

“Wait a minute. There are cutie marks in two different places in the map.” Fluttershy pointed out.

“That’s right, Fluttershy!” Rarity said. “You and Pinkie Pie are chosen to solve a friendship problem in Cloudsdale, while Twilight and I handle a friendship problem in Arlmaspi Territory.”

“Ar-ar-ar-ar-arlmaspi Territory?” Fluttershy asked nervously.

“ARLMASPI TERRITORY!” Pinkie yelled out which startles Fluttershy. “I have no clue what an Arlmaspi Territory is but it sounds so fun! Like… like… doubly fun!”

“If you want, I can explain it to you.” Twilight offered.

“No thanks, Twilight.” Fluttershy said wanting to change the subject. “I’d rather… I’d rather just focus on our own problem. Cloudsdale sounds more of a relaxing and well-known place! I was born there.”

“I love Cloudsdale too!” Pinkie said. “Except the fact that I don’t fly. It makes it harder to go around.”

“Well, not to worry Pinkie. I’ll give you my walk on clouds spell, so at least you’ll be able to walk around.” Twilight offered.

“Meh. I mainly prefer flying, because sometimes I feel super lazy to walk.” Pinkie said as she drops her head on the floor with her flexible neck.

“Super lazy?” Rarity asked.

“It’s like regular lazy, but I also wear a cape.” Pinkie said as her head comes back up.

“Sorry, Pinkie, but the wing spell is too difficult of a spell to perform.” Twilight said. “We’ll need the magic to where we’re going, but knowing you I’m sure you can compromise!”

“Oh like a pickaxe?” Pinkie asked as she puts on a mining helmet and picks up a pickaxe. “I could use that to where we’re going!”

“Actually, Pinkie, that’s the complete oppo-“ Twilight was about to say, but Rarity cuts her off.

“No, no, Twilight. Let her figure it out.” Rarity said.

So after the conversation, and after Twilight gives Pinkie her walk on clouds powers, Pinkie and Fluttershy, and Twilight and Rarity all leave the castle but go their separate ways. Pinkie and Fluttershy went over to the Twinkling Balloon, and Pinkie gives Cherry Berry some bits so they can rent it.

“This is going to be so much fun, Fluttershy!” Pinkie said excitedly as Fluttershy climbed into the balloon, and then Pinkie jumps in, knocking into Fluttershy in the process. They both stood up again and Pinkie yells out, “I super-duper LOVE Cloudsdale! Oh this would be so much cooler if we had Rainbow Dash with us!”

“Oh yeah, I definitely agree with that.” Fluttershy said as Cherry Berry removes the rope that keeps the balloon on the ground. She salutes to the duo as they fly away.

“Cloudsdale is like so different too all the other cities of Equestria!” Pinkie said. “But then again, all the cities in Equestria are different! While Cloudsdale is a city that creates weather, Ponyville is well-known for its farmland, and Canterlot is famous for being the capital of Equestria and it’s where the princesses live, and there’s also Rainbow Falls which-“ As Pinkie went on and on, the balloon was about to arrive into Cloudsdale. “-and then there’s Mareami which is known to be a tropical paradise, except when it rains. It’s also like you and me, Fluttershy! We’re so different, it makes everypony wonder why we’re friends! Like you’re super quiet, and I’m super talkative, so-“

“Oh good, we’re here!” Fluttershy interrupts. “Oh, I’m sorry I interrupted.”

“Nah it’s fine.” Pinkie said. “You know, you really should tell me ‘be quiet’ if I’m really bothering you. You spoil your friends so much, it makes me wonder.”

“I’m sorry.” Fluttershy said.

“And stop apologizing so much!” Pinkie demanded as she jumps off the balloon and stands on top of one of the clouds.

“Oh I’m sor- umm… I mean… uhh…” Fluttershy was in a lost for words. Fluttershy climbs off the balloon and Rainbowshine ties up the balloon on the foundation.

“Anyways, it is time to go exploring for some friendship problems! C’mon, Fluttershy!” Pinkie said as she starts sniffing on the ground like a dog. Fluttershy didn’t know what to say so she just quietly followed her. Pinkie continued to sniff along the ground until she reached a market stall selling lightning strikes. “Oooo lightning strikes!”

“Yeah, you gonna pay for that?” the merchant asked.

“I might, but lemme ask you something first, mister.” Pinkie said.

“Umm… ok.” The merchant said.

“Do these lightning strikes ever give out some… you know… friendship problems?” Pinkie asked.

“I’m… I’m not sure what you mean.” The merchant said.

“Like do these jars of lightning bolts seem to give out electric shocks?” Pinkie asked. “You know, just in case ponies don’t have hoofsey PJs to use to shock their friends.”

“Uhh… what?” the merchant asked confusingly.

“Umm, Pinkie Pie? I don’t think this is where we need to be.” Fluttershy informed her.

“Well of course this is where we need to be, Fluttershy!” Pinkie laughed and patted her on the head. “I mean this is Cloudsdale, and this is where the map sent us! DUH!”

“Umm…” Fluttershy said, “that’s… that’s not what I-“

“Oooo lookie here! Raindrops!” Pinkie said as she walks to another market stall. “I’ve seen Rainbow Dash use this prank so many times on different ponies! Especially AppleJack, and I was supposed to keep it a secret, but I accidently gave it away.” She giggles.

“Yep! Welcome to Raindrops’ Raindrops!” Raindrops said. “We have plenty of Raindrops here for sell made by Raindrops herself – that’s me!”

“Cool! Who’s Raindrops again?” Pinkie asked.

“Me.” Raindrops said.

“Cool! And what are you selling?” Pinkie asked.

“Raindrops.” Raindrops said.

“And what is this place called again?” Pinkie asked.

“Raindrops’ Raindro- oooooh, I get it! You’re teasing me!” Raindrops laughed. “Alright you got me!”

Pinkie giggles and says, “What tease?”

“Actually Pinkie, I don’t think the friendship problem is even in this marketplace, Pinkie.” Fluttershy informed her.

“Ooooh good call, Fluttershy!” Pinkie said. “It’s probably in another marketplace in Cloudsdale!”

“Umm, Cloudsdale’s only got one marketplace.” Fluttershy informed her.

“Oooooh! So it must be in the supermarket then?” Pinkie asked.

“Cloudsdale doesn’t have a supermarket.” Fluttershy informed her.

“Actually we do.” Raindrops informed her.

“Oh really? Wow… I’ve been away from home longer than I thought.” Fluttershy said upsettingly. “I’ve been away from home for so long I haven’t seen my family in a while.”

Pinkie then gasps real hard, so hard that her mouth turns dry, and it causes her to cough. “Fluttershy! You haven’t seen your family in years?!”

“Well… no not really.” Fluttershy said.

“WHY NOT?!” Pinkie yelled.

“Well… because I didn’t… I didn’t think they’d approve of me loving animals so much. Mama always wanted me to be a painter, but I… I didn’t want to.”

“Oh fiddlesticks, Fluttershy!” Pinkie said angrily at her, but then she chuckles at herself. “Fiddlesticks Fluttershy! That’s funny!” Pinkie then shook her head rapidly and then said seriously, “Anyways, I can’t believe you haven’t seen your family in so long! Family is like… the most important thing ever! Even more important than cakes, or parties, or brownies… but brownies cuts it pretty close.”

“Ooooh… you’re right, Pinkie Pie.” Fluttershy said. “I do miss my mama… my dad… my little brother.”

“Wait, you have a little bro-bro?!” Pinkie asked excitedly.

“I didn’t tell you about Pop Fly?” Fluttershy asked.

“Uhh, I probably would’ve remembered you telling me something like that, which in this case, I don’t.” Pinkie said.

“Oh.” Fluttershy said.

“We should go see your family right away!” Pinkie suggested as she held onto Fluttershy’s hoof and started to run, but Fluttershy was holding back.

“Wait, right now?” Fluttershy asked.

“No, next Hearth’s Warming.” Pinkie said sarcastically. “YES, NOW!”

“Oh, well… OOH!” Fluttershy gets tugged and pulled by Pinkie and as she runs off with Fluttershy with her.

Over at Fluttershy’s old house, Pinkie was still pulling on Fluttershy as she drags herself trying to resist. “Are you sure this is a good idea, Pinkie?” she asked. “It’s been a long time. I don’t even know if they even want to see me.”

“What are you talking about, Fluttershy?!” Pinkie cried. “The odds of your family not wanting to see you are the same odds as getting struck by lightning!”

“Well… I guess that makes me feel… a bit better.” Fluttershy smiles, until Derpy flies by in the background with a raincloud and lightning strikes nearby. “Eep!” Fluttershy immediately covers herself.

Pinkie rolls her eyes and begins to knock ‘shave and a haircut’ on the door, but the last two ‘dun-duns’ on the song was played by the doorbell. The door opens and a pale yellow pegasus pony with three pink tulips as a cutie mark, and pink hair in a style that’s similar to those of Limestone Pie, and a paint-stained apron opens the door and asks, “Yes? Can I help you?”

“Hi!” Pinkie said with a smile and a squee.

“Umm… hi. Can I help you with something?” Fluttershy’s mom asked with an awkward smile.

“I’m Pinkie Pie!” she said. “I’m here to reunite you with your daughter!”

“My… daughter?” my mom asked. “You know Fluttershy?”

“Of course I do! She’s one of my bestest friends!” Pinkie said. “Go ahead, Fluttershy, say hi to your mom!” There was no response.

“So… where is she?” her mom asked.

“What are you talking about? She’s right here behin- Fluttershy?!” Pinkie gasped as she wasn’t behind her, and then she looks over and sees the fluffy clouds shaped like bushes nearby.

“Yeah that’s definitely Fluttershy.” Her mom said as she laughed. “C’mon out, Fluttershy. You don’t have to be shy.”

“Isn’t that the reason you named her that?” Pinkie asked.

Fluttershy sticks her head out of the cloud bushes and slowly walks out, and then she says, “Hi, mama.”

“Oh Fluttershy!” her mom hugged her. “It is so good to see you again!”

“It’s… good to see you too.” She said.

“You haven’t come to visit in ages!” her mom said excitedly. “But I know those animals of yours take a lot of time off your hooves, right?” She boops her.

Fluttershy chuckles a bit and says, “Yeah, I… guess they do.”

“See? It all worked out!” Pinkie said.

“What worked out?” Fluttershy’s mom asked.

“Well you see, Fluttershy thought you weren’t accept her new occupation.” Pinkie said. Fluttershy quickly shook her head at Pinkie. “She thought you’d prefer she painted.” Fluttershy then sighs.

“Is this true?” Fluttershy’s mom asked her daughter.

“Well… I… umm…” she stuttered.

“Fluttershy, its ok!” her mom said. “You can be whatever you want to be, cause you’ll always be my little girl! If you don’t want to paint, that’s your choice. I just thought it would be a good hobby for you since you don’t like going out much.”

“Well… as it turns out, I’m really good at communicating with animals.” Fluttershy said. “I guess what I lack being social to ponies, it makes up with communicating with animals. Besides, I’ve been more social with ponies lately, ever since I met Pinkie Pie here, and the rest of my friends.”

“Wow! I’m so special, she only says MY name!” Pinkie said excitedly.

“Well Fluttershy is very lucky to have somepony like you, Pinkie Pie!” Fluttershy’s mom said to her. “You seem like a well-behaved pony, better than Pop Fly’s friends.”

“How can you say that though?” Pinkie asked. “Friendship comes in all shapes and forms!”

“I know, but they always seem to make a mess of things in the house.” Fluttershy’s mom said. “I’m still trying to get a stain out of the carpet.”

“Where is Pop Fly, mama?” Fluttershy asked. “I really want to see him!”

“He’s at school right now.” Fluttershy’s mom said.

“Oh, ok… I can wait.” Fluttershy said, but then she gets all excited. “Oh, but it’s so hard to! I really want to see him!”

“Wow! You must really love your bro-bro!” Pinkie said.

“Are you kidding? He’s so kind and adorable!” Fluttershy said. “He was that one friend I’ve always had when I was still living here. Before Rainbow Dash came into the picture, Pop Fly was there for me. He kept the bullies off my back, and that was when he was only the age between baby and school-aged pony.”

In a flashback, Fluttershy attempts to fly through the obstacle course at Junior Speedsters Flight Camp. Unfortunately, she wasn’t even able to get through the first checkpoint, and she falls. Fluttershy started to get picked on by the bullies – the same bullies that pick on Rainbow Dash. “HA! Look at Fluttershy over there!” Hoops laughed.

“Yeah more like Kluttershy!” Dumb-Bell teased.

“HA! Good one, Dumb-Bell!” Score laughed. “That name is almost as good as the name you gave Rainbow Dash!” Nearby, Rainbow Dash was lying on the ground after crashing onto a column accidently. Her eyes were rolling around and her head shook. Hoops, Dumb-Bell, and Score all went over to Fluttershy was who moaning on the ground in pain.

“Look at you, Kluttershy! What a waste of a pegasus!” Dumb-Bell teased.

“Yeah, why do you even live in Cloudsdale?” Hoops asked.

“Umm… be-because… umm…” Fluttershy stuttered.

“HA! Flyless AND shy! What a combo!” Dumb-Bell teased as they all laughed.

“HEY!” a voice yelled in the distance.

“Huh?” the bullies asked as they all stopped laughing.

“Who’s the smart pony that said that?” Dumb-Bell asked as he looked around.

“Ah you called me smart! I take that as a compliment” a tiny yellow pegasus colt with red flashy hair said happily at them. “Now, get your hooves off my sister, and we can get along and all that junk.”

The bullies all looked at eachother, and then they laughed. “And what are you going to do about it twerp?” Hoops asked.

“I bet he’s still not potty trained!” Dumb-Bell teased.

“Yeah, and he still wears diapers!” Score teased.

“Uh, that means the same thing as what I said, Score.” Dumb-Bell reminded him.

“Why don’t you just BACK OFF, DUMB-BELL?!” Pop Fly flew up to his face and yelled at him.

“Oh yeah? And what are you going to do about it, Pop Cry?!” Dumb-Bell teased as they all laughed. Pop Fly glared at them, and then he flies off.

“HA! Guess he couldn’t handle the heat!” Hoops laughed.

“No, actually…” Pop Fly said as he stood on a raincloud. “…I think you’ll find this quite… shocking.” He then kicks on the cloud and lighting starts to strike around the bullies which caused them to flinch.

“WHOA! How did you get that?!” Hoops yelled.

“Yeah, you can only get those clouds from the Weather Factory! How did you get one?!” Dumb-Bell yelled.

“I know my ways.” Pop Fly said as he continues to strike lightning on the bullies until they flew away. He then stuck his tongue out at them as they fled in terror.

“He was brave! I was lucky to have him by my side!” present Fluttershy said as Pop Fly hops on past Fluttershy and gives her a hug. The flashback ends there. “I’ve always done a lot for him in return because I was so grateful!”

“That is so nice!” Pinkie said excitedly. “Although, you didn’t mention how he got that storm cloud.”

“Oh… he never said.” Fluttershy said. “It was best not to know.”

“You didn’t know?” Fluttershy’s mom asked. “He stole that storm cloud from the weather factory.”

“He did?” Fluttershy asked curiously. “Well… I’m sure it was for good reason. I’m sure he gave it right back!”

“He’s actually had it for weeks, pranking other ponies with it.” Her mom said.

“What? Oh my. That doesn’t sound anything like him.” Fluttershy said.

“Wow! He sounds like MY type of pony!” Pinkie said excitedly. “Except for the stealing part. That’s a no no.”

“I thought you knew?” her mom asked. “Pop Fly spends a majority of his free time pranking ponies.”

“And what’s he doing when it’s NOT his free time?” Pinkie asked.

“Pranking ponies.” Fluttershy’s mom said. “He’s been doing that all his life. How could you not know that, Fluttershy?”

“Well, umm… I…” Fluttershy stuttered.

“Um, excuse me? Miss Posey?” a courier pony asked.

“Yes?” Posey, Fluttershy’s mom asked.

“Got a telegram from the Cloudsdale School principal.” The courier said as he gave it to her, and he flies off.

“The Cloudsdale School principal?” Fluttershy asked.

Posey reads the note and sighs in disappointment. “Oh no! Not again!”

“What? What happened?” Fluttershy asked.

“Pop Fly sabotaged the whiteboard markers again.” Posey said.

“Ooo really?” Pinkie asked excitedly. “Is it that one prank that causes the marker ink to explode all over the holder’s face?”

“I… guess so.” Posey said.

Pinkie starts to laugh. “Classic! Simply classic!”

“This is not good. This is the second time this week!” Posey said worryingly. “How? How could have I raised such a delinquent?”

“Now, mama, I’m sure there’s an explanation for all this.” Fluttershy said. “I’m sure Pop Fly didn’t mean any harm. Perhaps after a lovely talk with the principal, he’ll understand, and let him off the hook.”

“I do NOT understand this nonsense, and I will most certainly NOT let him off the hook!” the principal yelled when Posey, Pinkie, and Fluttershy visited the school.

“Oh dear.” Posey said nervously. Just then, there was a knock on the door and Pop Fly sticks his head in.

“Principal Stickers? You called for me, sir?” Pop Fly asked innocently.

“I will not tolerate this nonsense from you anymore, Pop Fly.” Principal Stickers said angrily. He takes out a chart and shows the list of names of students in the school. Next to the names, there were a lot of stickers. “You see this list, young colt?”

“Yeah it’s a list of names of the other students in the school so you don’t forget them.” Pop Fly said.

“NO!” Principal Stickers yelled. “It’s a sticker list.”

“Yes everypony knows you’re obsessed with stickers.” Pop Fly said he chuckled.

“You are NOT obliged to speak yet!” Principal Stickers said angrily. “Now then, this is the list of students in this school. Each student gets a sticker when they do something good for other ponies.”

“Good choice to put stickers on paper, sir!” Pop Fly said. “Put stickers on your coat, and they just fall off tomorrow.”

“I’m talking.” Principal Stickers said calmly but angrily.

“Let the principal talk, Pop Fly.” Posey instructed him.

“Now you see this part of the list?” Principal Stickers pointed. “This is your name. How many stickers do you see on here?”

“Hmm…” Pop Fly observed. “I dunno. They all seem invisible.”

“NONE!” Stickers yelled. “You have no stickers. You know why?”

“Cause you ran out?” Pop Fly teased.

“POP FLY!” Posey yelled at him. “Stop teasing with your principal!”

“Yes, MOTHER.” Pop Fly said with an attitude.

“And quit it with the attitude!” Posey instructed him.

“You haven’t been helpful to your fellow ponies.” Stickers said. “All you’ve been doing is teasing them, pranking them, and not taking them seriously.”

“I’ve been having good grades though.” Pop Fly reminded him.

“Your grades have nothing to do with this.” Stickers said. “You’ve been doing fairly well on your assignments yes, but you have to take other ponies seriously sometimes.”

“I knoooow! But being serious is so boring!” Pop Fly whined as he places his head against the wall. “I mean look at my cutie mark for crying out loud! It’s a sling shot. Is there anything serious about this?”

“That may be so, but you said you had other dreams.” Posey said. “How are you supposed to achieve them if you’re going to not treat your fellow ponies with respect?”

“I respect other ponies!” Pop Fly said. “I always tell them when I’m joking. Like, I told White Mountain she has ugly hair, but then I said ‘just kidding’ after she started crying.”

“Mama? Principal Stickers? Mind if I say something?” Fluttershy asked.

“Go ahead.” Stickers said.

Fluttershy flies over to Pop Fly and says, “I know Pop Fly here can be… not so serious at times, but he never means harm. He doesn’t want to hurt his fellow ponies. He is a sweet little guy once you get to know him!”

“Yeah, see? My big sis here! She knows what I want.” Pop Fly said.

“Hmm.” Stickers said as he removes his glasses. “Miss Posey, I have to let you that this is the second time this week he was sent to my office. I am sad to say this, but… one more time… and he’ll have to be suspended.” Posey, Fluttershy, and Pop Fly all gasped.

“Whoa!” Pinkie gasped as well. “And not even a farewell party?”

“Not ‘expelled’, he’s not leaving forever. He’s just leaving for a number of days, and if he misses too many class days, he’ll not get good grades, and he’ll be held back.” Stickers said.

“Aw man!” Pop Fly yelled. “Please, Principal Stickers! I didn’t mean any harm! All I did was put a frog inside my teacher’s desk the first time, and then sabotaged the markers and make a mess on her face! It’s not like it’s going to stain!”

“Did you have any idea that your teacher is allergic to frogs?” Stickers asked.

“I didn’t know!” Pop Fly whined. “Look, I really want to be a good pony! I just… you know… I want other ponies to think I’m cool! Being the class clown is the way to do it!”

“Being a class clown isn’t bad, but those kind of pranks that disrupt the class, that just leads you into trouble.” Fluttershy said to him. “I know you don’t mean any harm, and I know you’re a good pony. In fact, I’m going to prove to them that you are the kindest pony in all of Equestria!”

“You really think you can do that?” Pop Fly asked.

“I know I can!” Fluttershy said as she walks over to the principal’s desk. “Principal Stickers, I want to prove that my brother is a good pony. I’ll do whatever it takes!”

“Hmm…” Stickers thought it out. “Well… a fellow classmate Zipporwhill has a birthday party scheduled for tomorrow. Perhaps he can prove to it then by helping set up.”

Pinkie gasped in amazement, held in her breath, and then she yells, “I WANT TO HELP!”

“Whoa!” Stickers yelled. “Ok, if you want to help you can, but… why?”

“I guess you didn’t know that I am a Super Duper Party Planner!” Pinkie said as she leaned close to his face.

“Ew, say it, don’t spray it.” Stickers wiped his face.

“I can help out Pop Fly and show him what he needs to do to give Zipporwhill the best Birthday party EVER!” Pinkie offered.

“Hmm… well… I guess it wouldn’t hurt.” Stickers said. “I like your enthusiasm. But just try not to be disruptive. There are a bunch of other classes-“

“I’LL DO IT!” Pinkie yelled.

Back at Bushery’s house, Pop Fly was lying on his bed with his face planted on his pillow. There was a knock on the door. Pop Fly yells out, “Unless it’s Fluttershy or her friend – GO AWAY!”

Just then the door opens, and it was just Fluttershy. “Hey, Pop Fly!”

“Fluttershy, you always seem to make me smile every time I hear your voice!” Pop Fly said with a smile.

Fluttershy blushes. “Oh… it’s nothing really.”

“Did you get my cookies?” Pop Fly asked.

“Right here.” Fluttershy said as she gives a tray of cookies to him. “Freshly baked! Just like you wanted!”

“Chocolate chips?” Pop Fly asked.

“Yes.” Fluttershy said.

“Hazel nut?” Pop Fly asked.

“Yes.” Fluttershy said.

“No other nut?” Pop Fly asked.

“Yes.” Fluttershy said.

“Made in squares?” Pop Fly asked.

“Yes.” Fluttershy said.

“Did you head to the marketplace and get the sugar I liked?” Pop Fly asked.

“Yes.” Fluttershy said.

“Did you set the tempter one degree hotter?” Pop Fly asked.

“Yes.” Fluttershy said.

“Oh boy!” Pop Fly said excitedly as he takes a cookie from the tray. “One question though, sis.”

“Yes?” Fluttershy asked.

“What took you so long?” Pop Fly asked.

“Oh, I’m sorry.” Fluttershy said. “I’ll try to be quicker next time.”

“Thank you, Fluttershy! You’re the best!” Pop Fly said sweetly with puppy dog eyes.

“Hey anything for the best brother in the world!” Fluttershy said as she pets his head. Pop Fly then takes a bite of the cookie on his hoof. “So how is it?”

“It’s lacking something.” Pop Fly said.

“Oooh. I don’t have to do it all again do I?” Fluttershy asked worryingly.

“No, not this time, sis.” Pop Fly smiled. “I’m just missing a glass of reduced fat milk.”

“Oh, but… all we got his lowfat.” Fluttershy informed him.

“Lowfat? YUCK!” Pop Fly complained. “Go get the reduced fat at the market! It tastes much better!”

“Oh ok, Pop Fly. I’ll get right on it.” Fluttershy said with a smile as she then starts to fly out.

“Fluttershy?” Pop Fly called out, which made her stop and look back.

“Yes, Pop Fly?” Fluttershy asked.

“You’re awesome!” Pop Fly said sweetly. Fluttershy smiled again and then shuts the door before she leaves, but between shutting the door and leaving, Pinkie was leaning on the kitchen counter, glaring at Fluttershy while licking the cookie dough off the mixing bowl.

“So… that explains it.” Pinkie said.

“WHA?!” Fluttershy asked surprisingly. “Oh, Pinkie… you surprised me.”

“Yeah I’m good at that!” Pinkie said.

“So… what?” Fluttershy asked.

“What what?” Pinkie asked.

“What did I explain to you?” Fluttershy asked.

“Oh that!” Pinkie chuckled. “I was thinking about the ‘what what’ that I said I completely forgot!”

“Oh, alright.” Fluttershy said as she then starts to walk out.

“Oh right, I remember!” Pinkie said as Fluttershy stops to listen.

“Yes?” Fluttershy asked.

“You spoil your brother.” Pinkie said as she starts licking the spoon.

“What? No!” Fluttershy refused. “No, I don’t spoil him. He just does a lot for me, so I decided to do a lot for him…” Pinkie raises one of her eyebrows as she continues to lick the spoon. “Alright, yes, I do spoil him, but he’s just so… kind.”

“Is that why you spoil other ponies, including your bunny?” Pinkie asked as she scraped the inner bowl with her hooves.

“I didn’t know it to be true, but it is.” Fluttershy said. “Angel reminds me so much of Pop Fly that I treat him better than any other animal I have. I guess… I miss him.”

“It’s ok, Fluttershy.” Pinkie said as she pets her hair, putting cookie dough all over it. “I know what it’s like to miss somepony. Did you know, I miss my sisters more than anything in the world? Gummy, he really reminds me of them. He’s as tough as Limestone, as cute as Marble, and as excited and hyper all the time as Maud! You know what I’m saying?”

“I… I guess so.” Fluttershy said as she tries to scrape the sticky cookie dough off her hair.

“And we’ve discovered the friendship problem! We know why the map has sent us here!” Pinkie said as she puts her sticky cookie dough hooves around Fluttershy. “We need to help your brother gain a good reputation again! With this party, it’s the exact thing that’ll help him get that!”

Fluttershy smiles. “You’re right, Pinkie Pie, and we’re the ones to help him get there!”

“Great, so you go and spy on him, and see what he’s doing to get ready for the party.” Pinkie suggested.

“Wait… me… spy on Pop Fly?” Fluttershy asked surprisingly. “I wouldn’t! I… I couldn’t! I would never do that to my little friend!”

“C’mon, Fluttershy!” Pinkie persuaded. “It’ll really help him if you can prove to everypony that he’s done this himself without needing close help from you. Don’t spoil him, Fluttershy. He needs to do this himself.”

“Oh… I can’t! Why don’t you spy on him, you’re good at it?” Fluttershy suggested.

“Uh, duh! I have to help out the party!” Pinkie reminded her.

“Oh… right.” Fluttershy said.

“Relax! This will be hunky-dory!” Pinkie said as she began to whisper and tip-hoof. “Just sneak behind him without him noticing, and then… BOO!” Fluttershy gets startled and Pinkie laughs.

“How is that supposed to help?” Fluttershy asked.

“It’s not!” Pinkie said. “I just wanted to do that.” Fluttershy then glares at her. “But yes, sneak behind him, keep your distance, and if he looks at you – HIDE! And then when he’s not looking, sneak again, make sure he’s doing what he’s doing.”

“Oooooh… are you sure I should spy on my brother?” Fluttershy asked.

“Absolutusly!” Pinkie said. “It’s as easy as riding bike! You should be fine!”

“But… I… never rode a bike before.” Fluttershy admitted.

“Well, you know why I mean.” Pinkie said. “It’s as easy as a riding a monster carriage over a pit of fire with a crowd watching you, how about that? That better?” Fluttershy started to feel even more nervous, but it didn’t stop her from eventually doing what she needed to do. She felt that she needed to spy on Pop Fly to make sure he’s doing what he needs to do.

When Pop Fly leaves the house, he yells out, “Bye, mom! I’m going to help find some stuff for Zipporwhill’s party!”

“Good luck, Pop Fly!” Posey yelled out.

After Pop Fly walks out, Fluttershy follows without him noticing. “Bye, mom! I’m going to catch up with old friends!”

“Later, Fluttershy!” Posey called out as Fluttershy starts sneaking behind Pop Fly, following him wherever he goes.

“Bye mom!” Pinkie yells out as she was next to leave. “I’m just going out because I want to!”

“Have fun, Pinkie!” Posey called out.

As Pop Fly was gliding around town, Fluttershy glides along behind him, and every time he looks back, Fluttershy quickly hides, and he has no idea. Pop Fly suspiciously looks around as Fluttershy was hiding. Pop Fly then sneaks over behind one of the Cloudsdale homes and saw there was a pony tending a small Cloudmite farm in her backyard. Cloudmites are pretty much magical creatures that live inside clouds – they look centipedes but they also have a lizard tail and a lizard head, and they come in different pale colors – some are white and some are gray. Cloudmites are one of the most common creatures that live in Cloudsdale and any of the other pegasus cities in Equestria. Pop Fly peeks behind the fence of the backyard as the pony was feeding seeds to the Cloudmites. Fluttershy peeks at the other side of the fence and watches and waits to see what Pop Fly does next.

When the pony walks back inside her house, Pop Fly reaches inside his satchel as Fluttershy suspiciously watches her brother, but she doesn’t for long as she gets distracted towards one of the loose Cloudmites that rub against her. Fluttershy notices it and smiles as she pets it. “Aww! Aren’t you the cutest thing? I always grew fond of you Cloudmites, even though not many touch down in Ponyville that often.”

Meanwhile inside the farm as the Cloudmites were playing, one of them run over to the side of the yard where it noticed a giant tiki mask on the fence. “Boo.” The mask said gently. The Cloudmite immediately starts screaming out of the blue, and just like that, all the other Cloudmites begin to scream and panic. Pop Fly removes his mask as he laughs and glides back over the fence so he can watch the show. The cloudmite cuddling on Fluttershy begins to scream as well when it heard its friends freaking out. Fluttershy peeks over and saw the pony that raises the farm walk outside to see her cloudmites panicking. She tries to relax them, but a few of the Cloudmites just jump all over her body and her face, and Pop Fly was laughing really loud, but not loud enough for the pony to notice, but loud enough for Fluttershy to notice.

Fluttershy started to feel worried. “No… how could Pop Fly do this? Is he really that bad of a… NO! No, it can’t be true! I’m sure it’s all in good reasons. It was… just a prank. He didn’t really hurt anypony.” As the pony in the yard was running around trying to get the cloudmites off her, she accidently bumps into the wall of her house and collapses on the ground. Fluttershy looked over at the pony and felt that she needed to help her, but then she saw Pop Fly was flying away. Fluttershy needed to follow her brother, so she left the pony to her own as she follows him.

As Fluttershy was flying through Cloudsdale, she lost touch with Pop Fly. She then meets up with him again around the corner and he was interacting with another pony. A yellow pony with dark brown hair and three baseballs as a cutie mark. As Fluttershy spots them, Pop Fly asks, “Don’t you have anything better to do than bothering me, First Base?” And then Fluttershy hides again.

“Where are you going Pop Cry?” First Base asked mischievously. “Gonna go get yourself into trouble again?”

“I’m trying to help my friend have the best party ever, now will you go away?” Pop Fly asked. “I have better things to do than listen to your constant unoriginal name-calling.”

“HA! Like you even have a chance to throw the best party, let alone a good one! You’re going to be suspended, and you’ll never be able to live your dream!” First Base said.

“And you will?” Pop Fly asked.

“Just you wait, Pop Cry! When this is all over, you’re going to be lucky if you get suspension!” First Base said as he laughs and flies away.

“Wow, what a jerk.” Pop Fly said angrily as he stuck his tongue out at him. “Hey, I guess being angry runs in the family.” He chuckles and then he himself flies off.

“Oh… my!” Fluttershy said. “Could that bully be the reason Pop Fly is like this?”

Meanwhile in the air, Pop Fly takes out a slingshot and shoots a rock at First Base’s back, and then he immediately hides. “HEY!” First Base yelled. “I know that was YOU, Pop Cry! You’re such a bully!”

“No!” Fluttershy said in denial. “No, Pop Fly’s NOT a bully! I’m sure there’s a logical explanation for everything!” Just then, there was a very young foal inside of a stroller sucking a lollipop. Pop Fly then takes the lollipop from him and sucks on it himself, and the foal begins to cry. “STEALING CANDY FROM A BABY?!” Fluttershy yelled out in surprise. “Ok, those other things I might believe, but NOT this! I didn’t know it to be true, but… Pop Fly… he’s NOT a nice pony!” Fluttershy really didn’t know what to do. She tries to resist believing it, but all the evidence seems to support against the fact.

After a while of spying, and after Pop Fly buys some favors for the party, Pop Fly returns to the school where Principal Stickers was watching Pinkie set up the party decorations in the classroom. Pinkie was just setting up a banner that says ‘Happy Birthday Zipporwhill!’ on it. Pinkie blows a kiss and says, “Mwah! Perfection!”

“I must say, Miss Pie. I am very impressed on the decoration.” Stickers said.

“Hey I do what I can!” Pinkie said as she slides off the ladder like riding an actual slide. “Anything else I could do to help Mister Stickers?”

“You’ve done your part, but we have to remember – this is Pop Fly’s project.” Stickers said.

“Wait… all of this was a project this whole time?” Pinkie asked.

“Uhh… yeah?” Stickers said.

“AWWWW!” Pinkie whined as she dropped onto the floor. “Projects are so boring! Why? Why? Whyyyyyyyyy?!”

“Why what?” Stickers asked.

“Oh I dunno.” Pinkie shrugged.

“I’m here!” Pop Fly said as he walks inside with shopping bags.

“Yes! That’s definitely NOT boring!” Pinkie said.

“Yep! I bring the fun wherever I go!” Pop Fly said.

“Oh yes, and you do too!” Pinkie said. Stickers and Pop Fly both looked at Pinkie awkwardly, but they decided not to let it get to them and just continue.

“So, I did it! I brought the party favors for the party!” Pop Fly said as he opens the bags to show Pinkie.

Pinkie stuffs her face inside the bags and her voice echoes inside it, “Hmm… stringers, confetti, balloons, goody bags, hats, slide whistles…” Her head slowly rises out of the bag as she wore a party hat and she was playing the slide-whistle as she raised her head out. She then spits out the whistle and said, “Yep! Let the fun commence!”

“I hope there are no tricks in here, Pop Fly.” Stickers said.

“Hey I’m a kid, aren’t I? Tricks are my thing!” Pop Fly said.

“Zipporwhill’s party needs to be perfect, Pop Fly.” Stickers reminded him. “If you want your sticker, you’ll need to show as much kindness and respect to her as possible.”

“Don’t worry, Principal Stickers! All the party favors in here are clean. Just ask my sister Fluttershy, since she’s been following me around all day.” Pop Fly said as he turns around towards the classroom door.

Fluttershy peeks her head inside and she asks, “How long did you notice?”

“I saw you back at the Cloudmite house cuddling onto the Cloudmite. FYI - you’re not a very quiet cuddler, sis.” Pop Fly said with a snarky smile.

Fluttershy blushes in embarrassment and squeed.“I guess you’d want to know why I’ve been following you.” She assumed.

“I’m not dumb, Flutters.” Pop Fly said. “I knew there would be a time you wouldn’t trust me.”

“What?!” Fluttershy asked surprisingly. “No, no… it’s not that I don’t trust you. I trust you completely! I trust you more than anypony in the world!”

“HEEEEY!” Pinkie complained.

“So why are you spying on me then?” Pop Fly asked.

“To prove to everypony you’re a good pony!” Fluttershy said.

“And what sort of proof do you have so far, Miss Fluttershy?” Stickers asked.

Fluttershy froze, not knowing how to answer that question. “Well… umm… I haven’t really…”

Stickers takes off his glasses and shakes his head. “Miss Fluttershy, I will not deny your logic. You’re his family, so I understand you want the best for him. However, you don’t seem to understand the gravity of the sitatuon. Your brother hasn’t done any good at all.”

“But I’m sure with time and patience, he’ll be able to-“ Fluttershy said before she gets cut off.

“No, he’s right, Fluttershy.” Pop Fly said.

“What?” Fluttershy asked.

“I’m never going to change.” Pop Fly said. “Nor do I want to. I am who I am, and nopony can stop me! Not even Principal Stickers can change me! I don’t need this school to live my dream! I don’t need anypony!” Pop Fly begins to angrily march out of the classroom. “All I need right now is ice cream! Ice cream is my true friend!”

“That is unless you eat too much of it.” Pinkie informed him.

Pop Fly stood there in shock, making one of those silly faces that you’ve all loved in season 5, and then he shook his head and said, “Like I even care! I’m better off without school! You all just wait! Cause I’m quitting school!” Fluttershy then gasped before Pop Fly ran away.

After a while went by, Fluttershy returns to her old home to check up on Pop Fly. Pop Fly was in his room sling-shotting rocks towards glass bottles. “Yes!” he said excitedly as he breaks one. Just then, Fluttershy knocks on the door and opens it half way, peeking her head in.

“Umm… Pop Fly?” Fluttershy asked.

“Did I say ‘come in’?” Pop Fly asked.

“Umm… mind if I come in?” Fluttershy asked.

“Hang on.” Pop Fly said as he sling shots a fly off the wall. “Bullseye! Alright you can come-“

“AAH!” Fluttershy screamed as she flew inside and tended to the wounded fly. “Are you ok, little friend?”

“Fluttershy, relax. It’s just a bug.” Pop Fly said.

“Just a bug?!” Fluttershy asked in an insulted tone. “Just a bug?! It’s a living creature! They deserve as much respect as everypony else!”

Pop Fly sighs and says with an attitude, “You’re right, ‘I’m sorry’, Fluttershy.”

“It’s ok. It was probably just an accidental shot.” Fluttershy assumed.

“If you say so.” Pop Fly said. “What do you need, sissy?”

“Look, Pop Fly, I really want to prove everypony that you’re a good pony.” Fluttershy said.

“You don’t need to prove anything, Fluttershy.” Pop Fly said. “I know the choices I make. Nopony just seems to accept the fact that I don’t want to take things seriously all the time. That school is just boring! It’s all, ‘friendship’ this, ‘share’ that, ‘please and thank you’. One time I said ‘my teacher’s a vampire’, but then everypony says ‘it’s makeup’, same goes with calling her a clown for wearing too much make-up. Nopony seems to know what a joke is.”

“But there are times to be serious. You can’t be joking all the time.” Fluttershy informed him.

“I know, but… everypony is serious ALL THE TIME.” Pop Fly said. “I do pranks to kick things up a notch.”

“He’s right, Fluttershy.” Pinkie said as she falls from the ceiling, startling them both. “There are times to be serious, and a time to be funny! All Pop Fly here needs to learn is the times to be funny, and the times to be serious!”

“Well… can you give me an example?” Pop Fly asked.

“Well…” Pinkie starts. “You must be serious when other ponies are trying to be serious, but every other time…” Pinkie then takes out her party cannon and shoots confetti everywhere. “FUN, FUN, FUN! Are you getting me, Pop Fly?”

“As a matter of fact I do, Pinkie Pie!” Pop Fly said. “If only Principal Stickers would see that. If he could, then everypony else would. The only reason ponies try to be serious non-stop is because of that nosy principal who has no sense of humor.”

“I knooooow! Everypony needs a sense of humor!” Pinkie said. “If they don’t, they’ll just be sad all the time, and nopony wants that!”

“Well Principal Stickers seems to be upset all the time.” Pop Fly said. “He tries his best to run a bully-free community, but he seems to think I’m a bully when I’m mostly performing harmless pranks… most of the time.”

“Hmm.” Pinkie thinks.

“What? What is it?” Pop Fly asked.

“Well I did think of an idea that might help you throw a successful party as well as get Principal Stickers off your back.” Pinkie said.

“Well?” Pop Fly asked.

“But I lost my train of thought because I started thinking of trains.” Pinkie said.

“What?” Pop Fly asked curiously.

“Choo-choo! My train of thought is back!” Pinkie said excitedly. “Alright, here’s what we’re going to do…”

The next day came, and Fluttershy and Pinkie both went with Pop Fly to school to check up on the party that was about to be thrown. The teacher was just about to announce it right after she was done teaching. “…and that is why the wing needs its feathers. Without the feathers, a pegasus cannot fly. So save as many feathers as you can, class.” The teacher said. “Now, that completes our lecture for the day. I have a treat for everypony for the rest of the day. I’m sure you can guess why this classroom is decorated.”

“WOO! Surprise party! Surprise party!” Zipporwhill cried out in excitement. The entire class cheered right after.

“Well, it’s not really a surprise party unless you were surprised, but, why not?” Pinkie said. “SURPRISE PARTY!”

“Cake! Balloons! Streamers!” Zipporwhill said excitedly as she flew around the room admiring the decorations. “I hope everypony brought me presents!” Every student in the classroom brought out presents, even Pop Fly did.

“I bet there’s a pie prank or something in there, Pop Cry!” First Base presumed.

“I don’t do the same pranks twice unless I find it still funny, Strike-Out.” Pop Fly informed him.

“My name is First Base!” First Base reminded him.

“Yeah I know, and I’m calling you Strike-Out.” Pop Fly smirked at him.

“Grrr!” First Base growled at him.

“Boys, please.” The teacher stopped them. “Now then, it is your birthday, Zipporwhill!”

“It’s my birthday, and I’ll party if I want to!” Zipporwhill said excitedly. “I mean you’d party too if it happened to you, am I right, Miss Twirls?”

“You sure are!” the teacher, Miss Twirls said. “And you have Pinkie Pie here to thank for the decorations!”

“Yay! Thank you, Pinkie Pie!” Zipporwhill said excitedly.

“Aww, it wasn’t JUST me! Pop Fly here helped!” Pinkie said.

“You deserved it, Zeph!” Pop Fly said. Just then, everypony began to step away from the decorations.

“Oh… umm… great!” Zipporwhill said awkwardly. “Yeah… thank you… Pop Fly.”

“What?” Pop Fly asked.

“Oh, she’s just savoring the moment, Pop Fly!” Pinkie said. “I know deep down she’s really excited! Aren’t you?”

“Yeah… sure.” Zipporwhill said. “So… let’s get this party started then?”

“Let’s get this party started then!” Pinkie said excitedly.

So everypony began to party, even though they hesitated. They avoided the balloons, when Pinkie blew a streamer everypony got to cover, one of the ponies even hesitated to pin the tail on the pony and just kept the blind fold up. Even when the teacher cut the cake and gave one to a pony, he just offered to give it away to the other ponies, but they refused.

“What?” Pinkie asked. “What’s going on? Nopony’s having fun! Fluttershy?” Fluttershy didn’t know either. She just looked around and then she saw Pop Fly sitting on the corner upsettingly.

“Aw man!” Pop Fly complained.

“Pop Fly… I’m so sorry.” Fluttershy said as she comforted him.

“It’s not fair!” Pop Fly said angrily. “I’ve been so much fun to ponies! Try to make them laugh all the time! I’m not perfect, but I’m not boring either. I didn’t even sabotage anything here, and everypony is acting so scared!”

“Perhaps after all of your pranking, they don’t seem to trust you.” Fluttershy said.

“Serves them right.” Pop Fly said upsettingly. “Let’s just face it, Flutters. I’m never going to be a good pony. Principal Stickers might as well suspend me right now.

Fluttershy felt she needed to do something, but she really didn’t know what to do. That was when Pinkie stepped in. “Have you tried apologizing?” she asked.

“They’re not going to accept it.” Pop Fly said.

“Not unless you try.” Pinkie said. “Like Nana Pie always said – don’t knock it till you tried it! That’s how she got me to like lima beans! Yum!”

Pop Fly thought over what Pinkie said, and he nods in agreement. He knew what he had to do, so he stood up and walked over to Zipporwhill who was hesitating to eat the cake. Pop Fly takes a slice of it too and then he says, “It’s really good cake, Zeph! You dunno what you’re missing.”

“Right… I’m not.” Zipporwhill said awkwardly.

Pop Fly picks up his fork, and takes a piece of his slice and puts it in his mouth. “Mmm!” he said. “It’s delicious! C’mon, Zeph! Try it! It’s really good! Pinkie and I made it special just for you!”

“Really?” Zipporwhill asked with a smile. Pop Fly nodded.

“Please, Zeph.” Pop Fly begged. “It’s no trick, I promise.” Zipporwhill looked down at the cake, and she picks up a piece with her fork and slowly raises it towards her mouth. She slowly chews it and swallows, and afterwards she gasps. The whole class gasps along and then they glare at Pop Fly.

“WHAT?!” Pop Fly yelled.

“THIS IS THE BEST CAKE I’VE EVER HAD!” Zipporwhill said excitedly. The students all looked at eachother confusingly. “TRY IT!” she suggested. Another student took a bite of the cake, and then he smiled. Everypony else ate the cake too, and everypony seemed to like it.

“This is delicious, Pop Fly!” one of the students said. “Made it yourself?”

“Nope! Made it with Pinkie Pie, and got the confidence from my big sis!” Pop Fly said as he smiled at Fluttershy, and she smiled back.

“Big deal!” First Base said. “You’re just getting the other ponies to trust you before your ultimate prank!”

Pop Fly saw somepony avoiding the balloons, so he decided to help her out. “You think those balloons are going to pop?” he asked.

“I have the feeling something’s going to happen.” The filly said.

“Well the old me would’ve used my sling-shot to pop those balloons right in front of pony’s faces.” Pop Fly said. “But I’m a new Pop Fly now! I’m going to slow down on the pranks. Also, the principal wouldn’t allow me to take my sling-shot to school. That’s how I got suspended the first time. So go ahead! The balloons won’t bite. I mean, they don’t have mouths after all.” The filly began to giggle as his remark.

“That’s funny!” she said.

“That’s funny?” Pop Fly asked. “Wait… what I said was funny?”

“Exactly!” Pinkie said excitedly as she was bouncing one of those space hopper balls. “It’s ok to be funny! You just need to know what makes ponies laugh! Yippie!” Pinkie cheered as she bounced away.

“HEY! That’s mine!” one of the students yelled at Pinkie.

Pop Fly smiled real big and said, “So that’s all I need to do to make ponies laugh? Tell them obvious remarks or ridiculous puns? Say, that’s much easier than setting up pranks!”

So during the party, everypony decided to have fun, and trust Pop Fly’s decorating. During the party Pop Fly tells the ponies jokes and he was successfully able to make them laugh. “Wow, Pop Fly!” one of the students said. “I had no idea how hilarious you are!”

“Yeah I thought you were all pranks?” another student said.

“I thought I was too.” Pop Fly said. “All I want to prove is that I can be funny. I’m not trying to hurt anypony.”

“Maybe we should be funny too at times, not be so serious all the time!” one of the students suggested.

“Yeah! Even though there are times to be serious, sometimes not being serious can bring a smile on a pony’s face. Only in the right time though.” Another student said.

“Like during when the teacher is teaching science, right?” another student teased, and then everypony started to laugh.

“Funny, funny, funny!” Zipporwhill said excitedly as she looked over and saw First Base over by the presents. “First Base! What’s going on? You’re missing the jokes!”

“Just leaving my present here on the table.” First Base said.

“That is a good idea, First Base!” Miss Twirls said. “Perhaps it’s time for Zipporwhill to receive her gifts!” Everypony cheered in excitement.

“Yay! Presents!” Zipporwhill yelled out in excitement.

“I suggest starting with Pop Fly.” First Base suggested. “After all, he helped with the decorations.”

“Good idea, First Base!” Zipporwhill said. “It was super-duper nice of him to throw this party for me! He’s a good friend!” Pop Fly smiled at her remark.

First Base gives Zipporwhill the first gift that was from Pop Fly. She excitedly unwrapped it. There was a box, and she quickly opened it. “What is it, Zeph?” one of the students asked.

Zipporwhill started to laugh as she took the surprise out of the present. “It’s another present within the present!” Zipporwhill said. The other students laughed.

“Ok, ok! I admit it. I couldn’t resist a tiny little harmless prank.” Pop Fly admitted.

“It’s ok! It makes me even more excited to what’s in here!” Zipporwhill said as she opens the other present and opens the box. “Oh lookie here! Another present is inside!” The students laughed again.

“Well you didn’t think I was going to stop there, did you?” Pop Fly asked.

“Lemme guess, is another present going to be in here?” Zipporwhill asked.

“Nope! This is the real thing, Zeph!” Pop Fly said. “You’re going to be shockingly surprised!”

“Yes she will!” First Base agreed.

“Wait… what?” Pop Fly asked. Zipporwhill was about to open the final present, and Pop Fly was feeling pretty suspicious. “Umm, Zeph? You think you can open the present the OTHER way?”

“Sure!” Zipporwhill said as she turns the present around facing the other direction and then she opens it up. She then opens the box, and just like that, a vanilla cream pie on a spring pops out, but it faces the other direction, completely opposite of Zipporwhill. Everypony in the room got startled, even Fluttershy and Pinkie.

“WHOA!” Zipporwhill said in surprise. “I sure dodged that!”

“That looks like vanilla cream pie.” First Base said. “Zeph? Aren’t you allergic to bananas?”

“I… am.” Zipporwhill admitted. “But… Pop Fly knows that! Do you?”

“I swear! I did!” Pop Fly said. “I would never give you something you’re allergic to intentionally. I learned my lesson already.”

“Well… Pop Fly… I am very disappointed in you.” Miss Twirls said upsettingly.

“But I didn’t do it!” Pop Fly said.

“It’s true, Miss Twirls!” Fluttershy said. “I saw him wrap that present, and there was no pie in there!”

“LIAR!” one of the students yelled. “Pop Fly is a menace! I knew there was something off about this party!”

“All the nerve! We were about to trust him!” First Base said.

“Wha…. NO! Please, Miss Twirls!” Pop Fly begged.

“Pop Fly… please escort yourself to the principal’s office.” Miss Twirls instructed him.

“There’s no need for that.” Principal Stickers said as he opens the classroom door and walks inside. “I saw the whole thing, and to think this colt would ever change!”

“I DIDN’T DO IT!” Pop Fly yelled. “It’s not what it looks like!”

“Yeah, wish I had a bit every time I heard THAT phrase.” Pinkie said.

“See what I’m telling you kids?” Principal Stickers asked the class. “Humor is wrong! You must always take things seriously; otherwise your life will be a living nightmare! That’s how bullies start!”

“Principal Stickers… Pop Fly is a good pony! You have to believe me!” Fluttershy begged.

“No I will not.” Principal Stickers said. “Because of this, your brother will be suspended for the rest of the year, and will be held back for this.” Pop Fly, Fluttershy, and Pinkie all gasped in shock, and as Pinkie was gasping, she blows up a balloon and makes a balloon animal out of it.

“Fluttershy, can you please take me home?” Pop Fly asked upsettingly.

“Of course I will.” Fluttershy said.

“I’m sorry, Fluttershy.” Pop Fly said. “I guess… I guess it proves I’ll never be a good pony.”

“No… I have failed you… as a sister.” Fluttershy said as her eyes began to water. “I wanted to prove to everypony that you ARE a good pony. Despite the bad things you’ve done, you’ve… you’ve… you’ve done good things.” Fluttershy cuddles against Pop Fly and begins to sob on his shoulder.

Pop Fly hugs her back and says, “No… you’re a great sister. You were the only one that always had faith in me. It’s… it’s all I ever wanted. Somepony to trust me. But I guess… after all the bad things I’ve done… I guess I deserve it. Nopony will ever trust me.” Pinkie walks over to Fluttershy and Pop Fly and hugs them both, feeling bad for them.

“That’s not true.” Zipporwhill said. Everypony confusingly looked over at her.

“What do you mean, Zeph?” Pop Fly asked.

“I trust you.” Zipporwhill smiled.

“Why? Why should you?” Pop Fly asked.

“Because... you seemed to be suspicious over the fact there was a pie inside.” Zipporwhill said. “You knew it was going to happen.”

“Of course I do.” Pop Fly said. “I’m the master of pranks. There is no prank that I would not see coming.”

“What sort of pony that would plant a prank like that and then decide to abort it?” Zipporwhill asked. “Pop Fly here KNEW that if I turned the present around, it would completely miss my face. If I knew Pop Fly for so long, I’d know that be never wastes a prank he made.”

“That’s true.” One of the students said. “He never changes his mind.”

“Could be a coincidence.” First Base said.

“It is no coincidence.” Pop Fly said as he takes one of the presents off of the gift pile that matched his wrapping paper. He then reads the tag, “To: Zipporwhill. From: First Base.” He then begins to open the present.

“Pop Fly! What’s the meaning of this?!” Principal Stickers yelled.

“Let him finish.” Miss Twirls stopped the principal. Pop Fly opens the present, and then the present inside the present, and then the third present inside the present, and he brings the present to Zipporwhill. Zipporwhill opens the present, and then her eyes grow as she gasps in amazement.

“It’s a tiara!” Zipporwhill said excitedly as she immediately places it on her head.

“You look beautiful!” Pop Fly said.

“OF COURSE I AM, I’M A PRINCESS AND THIS IS MY TIARA!” Zipporwhill cried in excitement as she immediately hugs Pop Fly.

“HEY!” First Base complained. “That was MY gift!”

“No it wasn’t.” Fluttershy corrected him. “I saw Pop Fly buy that tiara.”

“With his mom’s credit card.” Pinkie added. Fluttershy and Pop Fly both glared at Pinkie. “What?! It’s true!”

“And I saw Pop Fly wrap the present.” Fluttershy said. “I also know for a FACT that he did not sabotaged it.”

“Yes, it was First Base!” Zipporwhill said.

“Prove it!” First Base dared her. Zipporwhill pulls up on his mane and shows a piece of banana cream pie on his forehead. “Oh… right.”

“Well then…” Principal Stickers said. “That changes everything. It would seem Pop Fly here was innocent all along. First Base, go to my office!”

“Ugh!” First Base groaned as he began to march out of the classroom. “This is not over Pop Cry! I wanna be just like my big bro one day! Hoops was the best bully ever, and I wish to walk in his hoofsteps!”

“GO!” Principal Stickers ordered him. First Base does what he’s told and walks out. Stickers walks over to Pop Fly and says, “Pop Fly… I guess I owe you an apology. I know you’ve done a lot of bad pranks in the past, but I guess… not all of them are your fault. You did a good deed for Zipporwhill by throwing her this party, and by giving her a great gift as well, I won’t just reward you not one sticker, but THREE for your folder.”

“WOW!” Pop Fly said excitedly. “My first stickers! And it only took five school years to finally get them!”

“Hey, why are we just standing around for?” Pinkie asked. “The party hasn’t finished yet!”

So the students continued to party until the school day finally ended. Zipporwhill thanked everypony for coming before everypony left. When Pop Fly meets up with Fluttershy and Pinkie back outside, Fluttershy excitedly hugs him and says, “I’m so proud of you, baby brother!”

“I wouldn’ve done it without you, big sis!” Pop Fly said. “I missed you so much!”

“I missed you too!” Fluttershy said.

“You really saved my reputation.” Pop Fly said as he also looks at Pinkie. “Both of you! I’m really thankful for it!”

“It’s what we do!” Pinkie said. “I mean we wouldn’ve known about this if the friendship map didn’t summon us! Which reminds me…” After she says that, both Pinkie’s and Fluttershy’s cutie marks began to vibrate again, reminding them that they succeeded.

“So I guess this means you’re leaving now, huh?” Pop Fly asked. “I won’t be seeing you for a while.”

“It doesn’t have to be that way.” Fluttershy said. “You are welcomed to come down to my cottage any time you want! I’ll even come by from time to time to check up on things. I really neglected my family, and I should really be there for them more.”

“I need you as much as you need me, Fluttershy.” Pop Fly said as he gives one final hug to Fluttershy and Pinkie. “Well… see ya!” Pop Fly then flies off to meet up with the rest of his classmates.

“Another successful mission!” Pinkie said.

“It sure was.” Fluttershy said. “Thank you for being here to help out, Pinkie. I dunno what I would’ve done if you didn’t suggest that party, or helped Pop Fly gain the confidence he needed to prove he is a good pony.”

“Are you kidding?!” Pinkie asked excitedly. “I love making ponies laugh, but not as much as I love making them smile by helping them out! And not only that, I got to do both! I helped Principal Stickers find his funny bone again!” Over by the school, Principal Stickers was telling jokes to the other teachers, and they were all laughing. “But I wouldn’ve done it without you either, Fluttershy! Your family is really fun!”

“They sure are!” Fluttershy agreed.

“Hey, I’ve always wondered something.” Pinkie said. “And no not ALWAYS like the day I was born, but all day I’ve been wondering… what is Pop Fly’s dream?”

“He’s always wanted to be just like our dad – in the EUP Royal Guard.” Fluttershy said.

“I knew it!” Pinkie said excitedly.

“Really?” Fluttershy asked.

“I dunno.” Pinkie shrugged. “Hey, Fluttershy, did you know there was a sign on your back that says ‘kick me’?”

“Yea- wait, what?” Fluttershy asked as she reaches behind her back and sees the piece of paper, Pinkie does the same thing and found another paper behind her back as well.

“POP FLY!” Fluttershy and Pinkie both yelled. Pop Fly overhears them, and then he mischievously chuckles.

“Like I said, nopony can ever change me!” Pop Fly said.

Author's Note

The very first Pinkie and Fluttershy episode - as well as a map episode too! Even though I should've had those two interact more, they both played major parts in here. This chapter is also the debut of Fluttershy's baby brother - Pop Fly! Who's Pop Fly you may ask? Why does that name sound so familiar? Well, have you listening to the MLP Christmas Album? There was this one school-aged colt that played a song in the album called '''Last Year I Got Coal for Christmas'''. Who was this strange colt we never heard of?

Well, Fluttershy's brother was also confirmed for season 6, and it may me think... what if Pop Fly WAS Fluttershy's brother? I mean, never in the series have there been an older sister and a younger brother. I really have the feeling that Fluttershy's brother is younger than her, and a trouble maker too. I made Pop Fly's personality somewhat similar to those of Bart Simpson.

Before this chapter, I was debating on when Pop Fly should actually appear. On the ''Royal Guard'' chapter that's going to be two chapters away, I was going to have Pop Fly appear and visit Fluttershy as a young EUP cadet that also causes trouble. Afterwards I thought of better alternatives for that chapter, and I moved Pop Fly to here. Originally in this chapter, Fluttershy and Pinkie were going to go to Canterlot to spy on a strange creature that's been wandering around, but since we've already had two chapters that took place in Canterlot before this, it's a bit too early to have another Canterlot chapter, and it's actually a good idea to have Cloudsdale appear. The theme for season 6 is pretty much '''Explore Equestria''', so we might as well have as much of the familiar cities to appear in this story as possible.

Originally, Fluttershy's mom was named Brushery, but after I was reminded about Fluttershy's beta - Posey, I thought it would be a nice favor for Lauren Faust to have one of the ponies she was looking forward to in here, and as Fluttershy's mom, much like everyone's theory of Firefly being Rainbow Dash's mom. How convenient! The Mane Six's betas turn out to be their parents! The only reason Applejack stayed original is because she had no parents, no wonder! Ooh snap!

Out of this World

(Twilight's crown is fake in that picture, alright?)

Over at the Castle of Friendship, about a half-hour before Pinkie and Fluttershy travel to Cloudsdale, Twilight was taking deep breaths as she looks through Starswirl the Bearded’s journal.

“Ok.” She started. “I have the feeling I got it now. Total concentration.” Twilight’s horn began to glow as she began to use her magic on herself. Fog and sprites filtered around her as wind blew against her hair. She began to float off the ground as the magic spreads around her. Just then, her body begins to split in half, and then another half takes its place creating two whole Twilights. The magic stops as Spike opens the door to her library and walks inside.

“Twilight, can I have your recommendation on something?” Spike asked. “I’m looking at the jobs section on this newspaper and- WHOA!” He yelled as he saw two Twilights in front of him.

“Hi, Spike!” both Twilights said.

Spike rubs his eyes as he says, “Is it me, or am I seeing double?”

“Hmm… I’m not sure. You could be seeing double.” One of the Twilights guessed.

“But then again, it could just be you.” The other Twilight teased.

“Looks like you’re getting the hang with Starswirl’s magic after all!” Spike said.

“I…” one of the Twilights started.

“…we…” the other Twilight added.

“…have been practicing these spells for a while, and so far, they’ve been really fascinating!” the first Twilight said.

“It took some work, and these spells are VERY complicated.” The second Twilight said.

“I’m still wondering why this book was locked away. The spells in this book have been really useful with my everyday life!” the first Twilight said.

“Now that there are two of us, we can do stuff we never did before on our own!” the second Twilight said.

“And what might that be?” Spike asked.

“Reading TWO books at the same time!” both Twilights said excitedly as they both took out some books and read them.

“Hmm… interesting.” Spike said sarcastically.

“Ooo let’s play a game, Spike!” the first Twilight suggested.

“Alright, what do you two Twilights have in mind?” Spike asked.

“Can you guess which one of us is the real Twilight?” the second Twilight asked.

“Well that’s easy! That one is!” Spike pointed to the second Twilight.

“Wow! How did you know that?” the second Twilight asked.

“Lucky guess?” the first Twilight asked.

“No because your cutie mark is glowing.” Spike pointed. The first Twilight looked over and saw that the second Twilight’s cutie mark was vibrating while the first one was not.

“The map!” the first Twilight gasped.

The second Twilight smiled and jumped in joy. “Yippie! I have been summoned again! Somepony needs friendship help, and the map has chosen me again! This is so amazing!”

“Yeah for you!” the first Twilight said angrily.

“Twilight? Would you like to come with me on the adventure?” the second Twilight asked with a smile.

“YES I WOULD!” the first Twilight said excitedly. “But how are we going to do that?”

“Simple!” the second Twilight said as she uses her magic to bring the first Twilight back within her again, becoming one. “Now we both get to go – as one!”

“This was like the most messed up thing I’ve ever seen in my entire life.” Spike said awkwardly.

Just then, Rarity runs into the library and yells out, “Twilight! The map is calling for me!” She shows her cutie mark that is vibrating.

“And now that makes three of us that are going!” Twilight said excitedly.

“Huh?” Rarity asked.

“You don’t wanna know.” Spike said.

A few minutes later over in the map room, Twilight and Rarity walk over to the map to check out where their cutie marks want them to go. When they spot where they need to go, Rarity says in a disgusted tone, “Ugh! We’re going to THAT place? A place with the skull? Why couldn’t we go to Cloudsdale like where Pinkie and Fluttershy’s cutie marks are floating over?”

“It’s pretty odd to see four different cutie marks in two different places in the map.” Twilight said. “I guess there are friendship problems happening in two places at once.”

“Can we switch?” Rarity whined.

“No.” Twilight said. “Whatever the map wants, we have to go to. The map obviously thinks they need us to go to where we need to go, so that’s what we’re going to do.”

Rarity sighs and says, “Fine. But I guess I shouldn’t bring my best dresses with me on this trip, that’s for sure. So what is this place anyway? I bet it’s a place that could really use a makeover.”

“This place is the Arlmaspi Territory.” Twilight said.

“Armpassi Territory?” Rarity asked.

“No. Arlmaspi Territory.” Twilight said.

“I know how you said it, dear, but I don’t want to say it that way because it sounds… uncouth.” Rarity said. “Plus it seems like a tongue-twister of a word, too much for my sensitive tongue to produce.”

“Uh huh.” Twilight said unamused.

“Also this is a long way to go!” Rarity whined. “My little hoofseys won’t make it all the way!”

“Don’t worry, Rarity, we’ll just catch a train to Appleloosa, and perhaps we can rent a carriage.” Twilight suggested.

“It seems a lot of work to stand there in a hot sun while we rely on other ponies to do the walking for us.” Rarity said as she learns her arm on her forehead. “But it’ll have to do. I suppose there are always compromises to be made. I’m nothing if not a reasonable pony.” Rarity then calls out from across the castle. “Spikey-Wikey?! I could use your help, darling!” There was no response. She clears her throat and yells out again, “Spike?! I would be ever so grateful if you could assist me in a problem?!”

“Rarity, he’s not your servant. I’m sure you can find a find a way to cover yourself from the sun.” Twilight said.

“Oh nonsense! Spike is always there for me in my time of need.” Rarity said as she walks through the castle corridors calling out his name. She eventually walks over to the library and sees Spike putting on a white apron. Starlight Glimmer was in the room as well, brushing Owlowiscious.

“What do you think, Starlight?” Spike asked. “Do I look good enough for the job?”

“Doesn’t matter how you look as long as you get it done.” Starlight said.

“I know, but I want to make a good first impression.” Spike said.

“Well regardless, I wish you the best of luck!” Starlight said. “In a little bit I’m going to be researching a bit about some case that’s going on about griffons going missing around Equestria.”

“Spikey-poo! So good to see you!” Rarity said as she walks in.

“Hey, Rarity!” Spike said.

“Spike, Twilight and I are about to go off on a friendship adventure to a strange territory that sounds like a… a dreadful place, probably full of strange beasts.” Rarity said dramatically.

“Ok.” Spike said.

“And we’re about to go through a desert that’s going make me sweat, and probably ruin my soft white fur, and make my mane soaked!” Rarity whined. “Please, Spike, I need your help in keeping me cool. If you do, I’ll be so grateful!”

Spike looks back at Starlight, and Starlight shakes her head. “Sorry, Rarity.” Spike said to her. “But I really have things to do today. I’m going to go help out Mr. and Mrs. Cake at the bakery. They have their hooves full right now with their foals, so I wanted to fill in for them. Perhaps I’ll find my special talent in the process!”

“Yeah that’s great, dear.” Rarity said in an uncaring tone. “But I really need you to come with us. Your sweet fabulous Rarity needs the help of a big strong dragon.” She flutters her eyes at him.

“The kid said no, ok Rarity?” Starlight asked her. “He’s got a life, you know. Right, Spike?”

“Oh, umm… r-right.” Spike said, trying to hold back his feelings towards Rarity.

“Hmph. Starlight obviously doesn’t know you as well as I do.” Rarity said to Spike. “Did I mention you’ll be seeing me on the adventure? You can stand right there by my side, as long as you keep at least a foot away from me. A girl needs her space.”

“Yes, and I’ll see you when you get back, and stand there by your side at least a foot away from you.” Spike informed her as he walks towards the exit. “But for now I have a tight schedule. No more reading about destinies for this dragon. It’s time I actually DID something. But I will miss you, Rarity, and I will think of you, don’t worry!” He then walks out. Rarity just stood there in shock.

“No?” Rarity asked shockingly. “Spike never refused to… help me before. How… how can that be?”

“Because Spike has a life of his own.” Starlight said as she continued to brush Owlowiscious. “He can’t be there for you ALL the time, because he’s got things to do.”

“Hoo-hoo.” Owlowiscious nodded in agreement.

“No… no…” Rarity said upsettingly. “How can this be? I even fluttered my eyes at him and waved my mane around! Am I… am I… losing it?!”

So after a brief conversation with Pinkie and Fluttershy about their mission, two duos go their separate ways. As Pinkie and Fluttershy head for the balloon, Twilight and Rarity head for the trains. Twilight and Rarity take a train to Appleloosa where they rented a carriage. As the carriage makes its way through the desert and through the woods surrounding Arlmaspi, Twilight enjoys the scenery, while Rarity just sits there with an umbrella, sunglasses, and a glass of iced tea. The freshly brewed stuff, not that yucky fountain iced tea.

“Ah, the Arlmaspi woods!” Twilight said as she felt the breeze on her face. “Can you feel that breeze, Rarity? That’s not your average everyday Cloudsdale factory-made breeze; no, this is the homemade Arlmaspi breeze made by Arlmaspi mages.”

“That’s nice, dear.” Rarity said as she closes her umbrella. “But now it is time for me to change into something cooler. The temperature has decreased rapidly all the sudden.”

“Well, the people of Arlmaspi need the cold air because they have sensitive skin. The hot air makes their skin fall off and peel.” Twilight explained.

“Ew!” Rarity said in a disgusted tone. “Well then thank Celestia for this cool air.”

“Sorry, Rarity, but one of the things I don’t like about Arlmaspi Territory is that they don’t believe in Celestia.” Twilight said. “But I respect their traditions. However, that doesn’t mean the power of friendship doesn’t flow within them still.”

“Didn’t Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie say when they went to Griffonstone, a Arlmaspi infiltrated the palace and stole the Idol of… something?” Rarity asked.

“The Idol of Boreas?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah that one.” Rarity said. “It makes me wonder if these Arlmaspis are thieves.”

“That is actually a good question, Rarity.” Twilight thought.

“Yeah, well, I’m chucked full of them.” Rarity said, admiring herself.

“This is as far as we go.” One of the ponies pulling the carriage said.

“We’re not allowed to go any further.” The other pony said.

“It’s fine.” Twilight said as she flies off the carriage. “Thank you so much for the ride!”

“Ahem.” One of the ponies cleared his throat. “Princess of Friendship or not, you still need to pay.”

“Oh…” Twilight said as she chuckles awkwardly. “I… I seem to have left my bits at home. Umm… Rarity, could you handle this for me please? I’ll pay you back when we get home.”

“Not a problem, dear!” Rarity said as she gives the ponies a small sack of bits. “Here you go, dearies! I hope you have a good trip back!” Rarity starts to walk off, but the ponies stopped her.

“This isn’t enough.” One of them said.

Rarity stopped walking and she curiously turned around and asked, “I beg your pardon?”

“This isn’t enough. This is half of what we want.” The pony with the sack of bits said.

“We walked hundreds of miles to get here, and it’s outside of Equestrian territory.” The other pony said. “We need more than this. Trust me, I calculated what we need, and I know what’s a fair price.”

“It’s true. I flunked math.” The first pony said.

“Well…” Rarity started as she flips her around and flutters her eyes at them. “I’m sure a couple of big strong ponies like yourselves can set aside this one unfortunate affair.” The two ponies looked at eachother confusingly. Rarity then walks up against them and rubs their chins. “If you can do this for me, I’ll be incredibly grateful! A sensitive girl such as myself has been threw a lot. I’m sure you two will do the right thing not let greed take control of you.” She turns around and fluffs her tail on their faces.

The two ponies looked at eachother again, and then they looked back at Rarity and said, “No!”

“WHAT?!” Rarity yelled in shock.

“It’s either you pay the full price, or we won’t come back to pick you up.” One of them said.

“Just pay them, Rarity.” Twilight said in an annoyed tone. “I told you I’ll pay you when we get back.”

Rarity sighs upsettingly as she gives the ponies another sack of bits. “Thank you!” the ponies said happily.

“We’ll be right here waiting for ya. If you’re not back by 24 hours, we’ll go get help.” One of the ponies promised.

“Will do!” Twilight said as she and Rarity started to walk through the forest. Rarity was feeling frustrated because her flirtatious charms seemed to have failed her again. She was starting to become more afraid that she’s losing her touch, but she just figured it might be a coincidence, and she’ll do better next time.

As the two were walking, Twilight was looking through a map in an effort to know what direction they’re going. “Ew!” Rarity said.

“What? What happened? Did you step on something?” Twilight asked.

“No… we’re here.” Rarity said as she pointed up ahead where it showed the rocky mountains, and a giant cyclops skull on top of the middle mountain. On the three cylinder-shaped mountains next to the big middle one, smoke was coming out of them, which made it seem like that mountain was a factory of some sort.

“Wow… this is so fascinating!” Twilight said excitedly.

“I find it to be disgusting.” Rarity said. “Also, yes, I did step in something.” Rarity showed Twilight the blue gooey stuff on the bottom of her hoof.

“Rarity, if you’re so disgusted on the germy substances you step on, why don’t you ever wear any shoes?” Twilight asked.

“Uhh, blisters? Obviously.” Rarity informed her. Twilight rolled her eyes as the two of them continued on to get closer to the mountain. When they got closer, they made their way to a huge wooden gate, with a wall surrounding both directions.

“This must be a very secure city we’re going to.” Twilight said.

“Why? I don’t think anypony would want to go to a place as disgusting as this one!” Rarity said.

“Rarity, I hope you realize we’re not in Equestria anymore technically.” Twilight informed her. “This place is apart of its own nation. So we’re not in our own nation anymore. We’re outside of it.”

“Which is to say… out of this world.” Rarity said.

“Just let me do the talking, ok?” Twilight asked her.

“Fine, but tell them they should at least have to tidy up a bit.” Rarity said. “At least this place doesn’t smell as bad as it looks.”

“Halt! Who goes there?” the head of a cyclops yells out from the top of the wall.

“Tell him he looks like he needs to put eye-drops on his one eye.” Rarity whispered to Twilight.

“Shhh!” Twilight shushed her. She then shouts out to the cyclops, “My name is Twilight Sparkle, princess of friendship, and this is-“

“I am Rarity, founder and owner of Carousel Boutique and Canterlot Carousel!” Rarity interrupts. She then whispers to Twilight, “I’d rather introduce myself, thank you very much.”

“What do you ponies want?” the cyclops asked.

“We were sent here by the Map of Harmony.” Twilight said. “It would seem that there is a friendship problem here, so we were sent here to help out.”

“I dunno what you’re talking about.” The cyclops said. “Us Arlmaspi cyclopes get along just fine.”

“Are you sure?” Twilight asked. “Because that map doesn’t lie.”

“Positive.” The cyclops said. “I’m not sure what map you’re talking about, but I assure you that it must have found an error. We Arlmaspi cyclopes never fight with eachother. It is pretty much us against the world, so we need eachother to survive.”

“B-but… there must be some kind of mistake!” Twilight said.

“Thank you for visiting the Arlmaspi Territory. Now good day madams!” the cyclops demanded.

“But darling,” Rarity attempted to persuade him, “surely there must be something-“

“I SAID GOOD DAY MADAMS!” the cyclops yells as he throws a giant rock down at them, but Twilight uses her magic to shield herself and Rarity from the rock and when it touches the shield, it smashes into a bunch of pieces.

Rarity gasps in shock and says, “How rude!”

“Looks like we can’t reason with him. We need to try something else.” Twilight said.

“And what do you suppose we do, Twilight?” Rarity asked.

“I think I have one idea.” Twilight said as she takes out Starswirl’s book from her satchel.

“Is that the book from Starswirl’s castle?” Rarity asked. “The one we used to help Princess Skyla control her magic?”

“Yep!” Twilight said. “It turns out there’s a whole bunch of magic spells in here that I never even heard of before! Not even Princess Celestia has ever done these spells, nor mention them!”

“You think there’s something in there we can use?” Rarity asked.

“I sure do!” Twilight said as she opens the book. “It might question my moral friendship code, but I really want to help these guys see reason.” Twilight turns the pages of the book until she finds the page she’s looking for. “Ah! Here we go! This will get him to open the gate.” Twilight immediately starts calling out for the cyclops. “Hey, gatekeeper!”

“What?!” the cyclops yelled out angrily. “Can’t you take a hint? We don’t have any friendship problems! Get outta here!”

Twilight closes her eyes, and her horn begins to glow. She then waves it from side to side and says, “You will open the gate for us.”

“Wait what?” Rarity asked. “Twilight, darling, you can’t just tell someone to-“

“I will open the gate for you.” The cyclops said with a blank expression on his face. The gatekeeper starts to turn a crank, and the city gate begins to open.

“Wait… Twilight, what did you just do?” Rarity asked curiously.

“Mind Control – Type One.” Twilight said. “I used that spell from this book. I sent a message to his mind, giving him an order to open the gate.”

“Wait… you controlled his mind?!” Rarity asked surprisingly.

“Not so much as ‘controlling’ it. That’s Mine Control – Type Two.” Twilight corrected her. “I wouldn’t go so far as to go all the way to type two, unless I REALLY NEED to. That’s going to be last resort.”

“It just doesn’t seem right to force other ponies to do something for you.” Rarity said. Twilight gives her a glare. “What?”

After a half a minute, the gates open revealing the Arlmaspi city. The huge cyclops who was standing right behind the gate greets them inside as Twilight and Rarity walk inside. The buildings were as big as Manehattan buildings; however, most of them were only two stories tall – cyclops height. Cyclopes were wandering around the city just like everyday citizens, even though most of them were using magic to get their jobs done.

“Wow… are they all magical?” Rarity asked.

“All of the Arlmaspi cyclopes are magical.” Twilight said. “There are other cyclopes around the outside that are not magical, but this is the place they go to study magic. It’s pretty much the Canterlot of the Cyclops Republic / Democracy.”

“So they’re not ruled by a king or princess or something?” Rarity asked.

“Nope. The cyclopes are ruled by a council.” Twilight said. “Multiple cyclopes rule the nation, not just one individual.”

“You know a lot about our nation, puny ponies.” A cyclops said as he leaned against the wall eating a giant apple.

“Whoa! Applejack would have a field day with that thing!” Rarity said impressively.

“HEY! Who you callin’ a thing?!” the cyclops yelled feeling offended.

“I was talking about your apple.” Rarity corrected him.

“Hey! What’re callin’ my home a thing?!” a giant worm yelled out after sticking out of the apple.

After an awkward silence, Rarity says, “Ok, I’m officially freaked out now.”

“Anyways we’re here to help out a friendship problem here.” Twilight said. “Do you know of anywhere in town that your people are fighting?”

“Our people get along just fine!” the cyclops said. “It’s us against the world! Surely, if you knew much about our kingdom, you’d know that.”

Twilight started to think, and then she says to Rarity, “I don’t get it. Why would the map send us here if none of these cyclopes have any friendship problems?”

“It’s weird. Both of those cyclopes gave us the same exact answers.” Rarity said. “Can it be a coincidence?”

“I think we’ll need to investigate.” Twilight said. “I’m going to go up the mountains and see what I can find. You should try speaking with these cyclopes down here in town and see if you can find any clues.”

“With me and my charms,” Rarity waves her hoof against her mane, “nopony can resist!”

“Well I hope you put your charms to good use, and not try to get these cyclopes to do your bidding.” Twilight said.

“Twilight, darling, I assure you, I never get anyone to do my ‘bidding’.” Rarity informed her.

“Is that so?” Twilight asked, not believing her.

“It is so.” Rarity said. “It is all for good reasons.”

“For both our sakes, Rarity, I hope so.” Twilight said as she started to walk towards the mountains. Rarity takes out a mirror to check up on her face.

“Rarity, you ol charmer, you’re going to woo these guys! Who knows what you can accomplish?” she asked herself. “For all you can get regular ol stallions to do for you, who knows what these cyclopes can do if you just show them what you’re made of!”

Twilight heads over to the mountains nearby and she speaks to herself as she looks up at it. “Hmm… with the smoke coming out of those skinny peaks, it doesn’t seem like this mountain is a natural resource, unless something was built inside of it.” Twilight looks over and sees a giant door on the mountain with two cyclops guards carrying giant metal spears guarding it.

“Excuse me, sirs?” Twilight asked as the cyclopes’ metal armors clained as they looked down at Twilight. “Yeah hi, I’m Twilight Sparkle, princess of friendship!”

“Ask us if we care.” One of the guards instructed her.

“I’d rather not because it’s basic psychology that I know what your answer is.” Twilight said.

“Good, that should save us some time, and you can finally leave.” One of the guards said.

“But you see, I must speak to your leaders at once.” Twilight said. “The Map of Harmony has sent me here, and I wish to help out with a friendship problem.”

“We have no friendshi-“ one of the guards said, but gets cut off by Twilight.

“-No friendship problems. Yes, I got that.” Twilight said. “But the map is never wrong.”

“Must be wrong this time.” One of the guards said.

“No! It’s never wrong!” Twilight said. “I want to speak to your leader at once. I really want to help.”

“We don’t need any pony’s help. Get lost!” one of the guards instructed her.

“Unless you’re already lost, in that case, get lost somewhere else.” The other guard said.

Twilight sighs and says, “I really didn’t want to do this, but I’m desperate to help out.” Twilight closed her eyes and her horn started glowing. She then waves her head back and forth and says, “You will let me see your leader.”

“I will let you se our leader.” One of the guards said.

“Wait why?” the other guard asked the other guard. “What’s wrong with you, pal?”

“You both will let me see your leader.” Twilight said as she waved her head again.

“We both will let you see our leader.” Both of the guards said as they opened he doors. The guards walked inside and Twilight followed them. After walking through the caverns, the base of the mountain was revealed to Twilight’s eyes. It turns out she was correct that something was built inside the mountain. It was a machine containing magic inside. A conveyor belt containing vials of magic potions went on by. This aroused Twilight’s curiosity to why there was a factory inside the mountain. She continued to follow the guards until they reached the council chamber. There were councilor cyclopes sitting around the chamber, and the head councilor had their chair turned.

“President Lia.” One of the guards said.

“What is it, you two?” a female cyclops wearing navy blue gown and gold upside-down triangle ear-rings asked with an attitude. “No, you cannot have a raise!”

“No, madam, it is not that. We have the princess of friendship here that wishes to speak with you.” One of the guards said.

“I see.” President Lia said as she looks down at Twilight, and Twilight awkwardly waves at her. “Do you have an appointment, your highness?

“Well… no.” Twilight admitted. “But I-“

“I cannot speak with anyone, especially a pony, unless they have an appointment.” Lia said. “I’m a very busy cyclops, if you haven’t figured out. I’m trying to run a business, as well as a nation with my fellow councilors here.” The councilors all said hi to Twilight, but in their own words.

“My name is Twilight Sparkle.” She said.

“Yes, I heard of you.” Lia said. “I was at a summit one time. I heard what you do. You go around Equestria and help out others that are in need of friendship, but I’m pretty sure plenty of my people have already told you that we all get along just fine.”

“Ooooh, they probably mentioned it once or twice.” Twilight teased as she chuckled.

“This is no time for humor, Miss Sparkle.” Lia said. “We have a bone to pick and it is time we did something about it.”

“AH HA! So you do have a friendship problem!” Twilight said.

“How can we have a friendship problem if we have never been friends with these creatures before?” Lia asked.

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked.

“You ask too many questions, Princess Twilight.” Lia said. “Questions that could get you into a lot of trouble. I hope you realize that we’re not really part of Equestria, even though we do business with them. So we are not your responsibility. Our problems remain our own.”

“But is it our responsibility for the ones you’re angry at?” Twilight asked.

“Princess Twilight, I hope you realize you’re in our territory with our own laws, and we will not hesitate to capture you.” Lia said. “Now if you be so kind is to leave? We won’t have to make things ugly.” She then looks at her councilors and then says, “Well… uglier than usual.” Her councilors all looked at eachother curiously, and then one of them smelled his own armpit and shrugged.

So the guards began to escort Twilight out. Meanwhile, Rarity was strolling through town looking for a reliable place to get information from. She ended up trying her charms on every cyclops on the street, but she had no such luck. Everyone just ignored her. Rarity started to feel frustrated.

“UGH!” she groaned. “Is anyone going to help a girl out?! I’m pretty! No guy has ever ignored this look!”

“Whoa, first world problems, lady.” A cyclops said as he walked by.

“UGH!” she groaned again. “I’m losing it! I’m really losing it! Everyone thinks I’m ugly now!”

“That’s not true.” A female cyclops said.

“Really?” Rarity asked happily.

“Yeah. You always looked ugly to us.” The cyclops said as she walked away.

Rarity started spazing out. She really thought after those cyclops told their own opinions about her, she started to think it was a fact, but then that was when she knew what she needed to do. “Ok… ok… desperate times call for desperate measures. It is time to look the prettiest I’ve ever been!” Rarity puts down her satchel and starts going through it. “I’ll show these one-eyed freaks who’s ugly!”

Back in the factory while Twilight was being escorted out, Twilight needed to do something to get more information on who the cyclopes have not been getting along with, so she needed to get rid of the guards. She uses the mind control spell she’s been using on the guards to get rid of them. Twilight then sneaks deeper into the factory watching as the conveyor belt transports the jars of magic.

“What is this place?” Twilight asked herself as she follows the conveyor belt seeing where the magic is coming from. She watches as the machine cleans the magic and adding substances to it to make it from a gas to a liquid. Twilight feels a bit concerned so she goes deeper. She eventually sees a door that says ‘keep out’ on it. Her curiosity got the best of her so she opens the door.

“AAAH!” a female screamed from inside as water was also heard running from inside.

“AAH! Sorry, sorry!” Twilight said as she quickly shut the door and she blushed in embarrassment. Twilight looks over and sees another door right next to it with the sign that says ‘Storage’. She opens the door and gasps in shock. Inside the room was a bunch of griffons trapped in cages. Some were yelling and fighting to get out, while some were lying down on the ground feeling drained. Twilight started to feel worried and suspicious. “Griffons! What have they done to you?”

“Those dweebs kidnapped us, and they’re draining our magic!” Gilda said.

“Gilda?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah what’s up?” Gilda asked. “How’s Dash doing?”

“She’s fine.” Twilight said. “Gilda, what happened here?”

“These stupid one-eyed freaks snatched us while we weren’t looking!” Gilda explained.

“It is terrible! Unacceptable!” Gustave le Grand said worryingly.

“Gustave le Grand?!” Twilight cried out in surprise.

“I was at my restaurant; I was closing down shop when they snatched me!” Gustave cried. “Look at my apron! It’s ruined!”

“It’s just wrinkled, dimwit! You’ll survive!” Gilda informed him.

“How about you, Gilda? How did you get here?” Twilight asked.

“You may not know it, but since Griffonstone got finished rebuilding, I became its new ambassador.” Gilda said. “Now I can travel around Equestria demanding stuff for my kingdom. Now that’s the life I like – adventure, and demanding!”

“Well, Princess Twilight, I do not wish to hurry you, but this hose here draining our magic a little bit at a time!” Gustave said as a giant hose showed up and started sucking the magic off a fellow griffon. So much of his magic has drained that he collapsed on the ground, feeling drained.

“This is NOT good!” Twilight said worryingly. “What could they be using this magic for?”

“I dunno, but you better think of something FAST!” Gilda said. “Otherwise-“ Just then, Twilight suddenly blacks out from getting hit in the head by a guard.

Back in the city, over by the tavern, cyclopes were talking, drinking milk, playing games, and one was even playing a piano. Their fun time gets disturbed when Rarity walks in. She doesn’t say anything – she just walks in showing off her gemstones on her water blue dress. Everyone just stares down (literary) at her as she walks over to the bar area. She struggles as she climbs up onto the stool that’s 4x bigger than a normal one. “Hello, darling!” Rarity said to the bartender as she waves her hair around.

“What can I do for you?” the bartender asked.

“Oh I’ve just been around the neighborhood, and thought it would be a good idea to get some… information.” Rarity said.

“Information on what?” the bartender asked.

“I’m looking for a friendship problem.” Rarity said. “It would seem your people are having some sort of… fight. Would you care to explain so I can help out?”

“That is none of your concern.” The bartender said.

“Ahem.” Rarity clears her throat as she waves her mane again and flutters her eyes. “I don’t think you understood me, which is completely fine. A smart handsome creature such as you must make mistakes just like everybody else.”

“Look if you want rumors, you’re going to have to pay for it.” The bartender said.

“Umm… yeah about that.” Rarity started.

“Then I have nothing for you. Either buy something or get out. Your choice.” The bartender said.

“Hmph.” Rarity groans. She then turns towards a female cyclops next to her and asks, “Do you like my dress? It could be yours with no charge! All I need is some information.”

“No thank you. That dress seems awfully bright for my taste.” The cyclops said.

“How about if I took the gems out?” Rarity suggested.

“That might fix the clarity, but how am I going to fit into that little thing, genius?” the cyclops asked sarcastically. Rarity started to get angry. She needed to get information somehow. She tried the card players, she tried the piano player, but no such luck was made. There was only one more cyclops in the tavern to get information from, and that was a lonely cyclops sitting near the corner.

“Ah! A loner!” Rarity said happily. “He must be desperate enough. He’ll for sure give me the information I need!” Rarity walks over to the lonely cyclops and shows off her dress and hair to him. “Hello there, handsome! What could a big strong cyclops like you be all alone back here?”

“Wow, you finally got to me. I thought for sure you’d skip me.” the cyclops said upsettingly.

“Me? Skip you?” Rarity chuckled. “Why would I want to do that?”

“Save your breath, you’re only using me to get information. Why else would you be flirting with anyone in here? You ponies have no interests in ‘freaks’ like us.” The cyclops said.

“Whaaaaat? No! You’re not freaks!” Rarity fibbed.

“Go ahead, lie to us some more. It’ll definitely get you the information you need.” The cyclops said sarcastically. “I’ve seen what you and your friend have been doing. You’re trying to force information out of us. How do you think we feel about that?”

“Oh but darling, please!” Rarity persuaded.

“My name is Roland, and that’s what I want to be called.” The cyclops said with an attitude.

“Ok… Roland.” Rarity said.

“That’s a start.” Roland said.

“So does a big strong handsome-“ Rarity continued but Roland cuts her off.

“Will you cut that out?” Roland complained. “No one wants to hear your lies. If you really want information from us, you’ll have to earn our trust. That… that what you’re doing now.”

“What?” Rarity asked as she fluttered her eyes at him.

Roland sighs. “You look pretty, alright? Don’t get me wrong. But seriously… that needs to stop.”

“Ooooh…” Rarity moaned to herself as she faceplants her head onto the table. “It’s hopeless! I’ve been doing the same exact technique and it’s not working. I’m not sure what happened. I used to be so irresistible! I had dealbreakers with my fair looks! It’s no use anymore. I don’t need this dress!” Rarity starts to freak out as she rips off her dress and throws it aside – it lands inside a cyclopes’ milk glass. “And this mane! This was the main source of my beauty! No one ever resisted!” She then uses her magic to pick up one of the cyclops’ mug of water and dumps it on her head, messing up her mane.

“HEY! That was my water!” the cyclops complained.

“Oh hush! You didn’t even PAY for it!” Rarity yelled angrily.

“It’s true.” The cyclops agreed.

“And this magnificent coat!” Rarity continued. “I make it shinny and beautiful, but has anybody paid attention to it?! Noooo! Here I am trying to save the fate of Equestria, and all that surrounds it, and all this cleanliness goes to waste!” Rarity then jumps outside and covers herself with dirt. She then hops back inside and yells, “THERE! Look at me! I’m UGLY now! Is this what you wanted?! Huh!?” Everyone just stared at Rarity in silence. Rarity started to feel embarrassed and awkward. “I’m… I’m sorry.” She said. “That has never happened to me before.”

“Hey, I understand your situation.” Roland walks over to her and helps her up. “You know how I ended up here? Because I’m gullible. Our previous president, President Corgan ordered me money to hunt down griffons and capture them and bring them back to the mountain. As I was bringing a group of griffons in, they bribed me. They offered me money to let them go. He fired me. It cost everything I have. Money got the best of me. It tricked me, and all for what?”

“So… what are you saying?” Rarity asked.

“You can’t bribe or charm others to get you the information you want.” Roland said. “It’s not right. Not only could you hurt others, but you could hurt yourself too. I didn’t want to capture those griffons in the first place, because it didn’t seem right. President Corgan paid me, then the griffons paid me – some think beauty and greed will get them what they want, but it’ll only take you so far. I’m hoping our newly-elected President Lia thinks otherwise.”

“Hey, I would’ve listened to you now.” the bartender said to Rarity. “I mean you look better with that mane like that. Those gems made you look awfully bright. I prefer dark myself.”

“Hmm.” Rarity thought it over. “I must remember that next time. Not everyone likes the same look, but… then again… looks aren’t everything.”

“Exactly what I’ve been saying.” Roland said.

“Well… I apologize yet again for what I’ve been doing, dear, and for what Twilight’s been doing too. We’ve both been misusing our gifts.” Rarity said. “Oh… how am I supposed to get the information now?”

“Well, for one all you needed to do was explain the situation.” Roland said. “If we knew all of Equestria was hanging in the balance, I would’ve told you what you needed to know right away.” The other cyclopes in the tavern all nodded in agreement.

Rarity started to chuckle. “All that freaking out for nothing, huh? All I needed to do was explain!” The other cyclopes laughed along. Rarity smiled after officially learning her lesson. She then asked Roland, “Oh, and what’s the second thing you were going to tell me, Roland?”

“Well, I already gave you the information you need.” Roland said. “The council has been capturing griffons, stealing their magic, because they stole something from us, and we need it back.”

“My friend Twilight might need some help in that regard.” Rarity thought. “Will you please take me to the mountain?” She just smiled; she didn’t even flutter her eyes. Why should she anyway? Her eyelashes are all messed up.

Roland then smiled back. “Follow me.” He instructed her.

Back inside the mountain, Twilight wakes up from lying on the ground. She moans as she rubs her head. She eventually stands up and walks forward, that is, until she hits some kind of invisible wall. “What the?” Twilight asked herself. Twilight then curiously walked right, and then she hits another invisible wall. “This isn’t right.” Twilight starts running around the room, as she keep hitting invisible walls all around her. “Hmm…” she thought. “Something tells me…” Twilight continues running around the room touching the invisible walls to be sure. “Yeah, yep. It’s a glass box. Is it what I think it is?” Twilight attempts to use her magic, but her horn didn’t even spark. “Yep I was right.”

“An anti-magic box.” President Lia said as she and two of her guards walk in.

“President Lia, I am impressed!” Twilight said. “Anti-magic boxes are not easy to come by.”

“To us they are. We invented them.” President Lia said.

“Ah.” Twilight nodded. “How about we just cut to the chase? Why do you have a bunch of griffon prisoners?”

“You know why.” Lia said.

“Yes I know, you’re draining their magic, by why griffons?” Twilight asked.

“Well now that we have you. Alicorn magic is the most powerful magic in all the land.” Lia said.

“Yeah that’s nice, but you’re not answering my question.” Twilight reminded her.

Lia sighs and says, “You’re not going to make this easy for me are you? Are you going to try to force the answer out of me, like you’ve been doing to my people?”

“I’m here on an important mission. The Map of Harmony gave us a message saying there’s a friendship problem here.” Twilight said.

“You can’t seem to understand my language, so how about you read my lips?” Lia continued. “WE… HAVE… NO… FRIENDSHIP… PROBLEM!”

“You may not have any friendship problems with eachother, but what about those griffons?” Twilight asked.

“Oh them?” Lia asked. “We weren’t friends with them in the first place. They stole something from us.”

“THAT’S A LIE!” Gilda yelled from the cage at the other side of the room. “We stole NOTHING from you!”

“Oh yeah?” Lia asked as she walks over, crouches over, and leans over (that’s what I call the three overs) near Gilda and said, “Idol of Boreas. Does that name mean anything to you?”

“Yes that’s the treasure that brought griffonkind together, that is, until it was lost, but then we learned to live without it.” Gustave said.

“And how was that icon found?” Lia asked.

“Well that’s easy. But how about we discuss this over an éclair?” Gustave suggested.

“ANSWER THE QUESTION!” Lia demanded.

“King Grover discovered it, ok?!” Gilda said with an attitude. “Now cool your jets!”

“Hmm, let me rephrase that… you mean he STOLE it from us.” Lia corrected them.

“He didn’t stole NOTHIN’!” Gilda corrected her.

“Yes he did!” Lia said. “It was one of our priceless artifacts. It was an heirloom that belonged to our first president. Our former president, Corgan, sent one of our best agents, Arimaspi, over to the kingdom in an attempt to get the idol back, but Arimaspi disappeared, and never returned. When he learned about his failure, it wasn’t all lost. Griffonstone was falling apart, so it’s a little something I like to call: karma.”

“So if you exacted your revenge, why are you capturing griffons?” Twilight asked.

“Well, after an unfortunate chain of events, griffons decided to rebuild their society after finding out they don’t need the idol anymore to survive.” Lia said. “Since we still don’t have our idol back, we need to make sure Griffonstone stays as a low rate society, which is why we’re collecting their magic, and we’re going to attack their kingdom and take over it! The more magic we collect, the more successful our troops will be in taking over.”

“Well you can’t use ALL of us!” Gilda said. “We don’t have enough magic for your army, so you’re wasting your time.”

“That’s why we have a princess now!” Lia said as she looks over at Twilight mischievously.

“Oh… if you think you’re going to be taking my magic, you have another thing coming.” Twilight threatened her. “The princesses will not allow this!”

“HA! You think the princess’s laws apply here?” Lia asked. “We’re not part of Equestria, remember? We have our own nation! What we’re doing is practically legal – we have the rights to do this.”

Twilight started to get nervous. “Surely we can be reasonable here!” She suggested.

“You trespass into our base, brainwash my guards – the time of negotiations are over.” Lia said. She turns to her guards and ordered them, “Guards! Start the hose!” One of the guards pulled down a lever and a giant hose began to decedent into Twlight’s box. Twilight was starting to shake since she knew she would be defenseless while inside that box. “I hope you realize alicorn magic is very powerful, too powerful even for you!”

“Ah but with your magic, combined with this book you thoughtfully brought,” Lia showed Twilight Starswirl’s book, “we’ll have magic that will be so powerful that it will be out of this world!” She started to laugh mischievously. The hose was descending closer and closer until it goes through inside the box. The hose then gets connected to her horn. The guards push another lever down and the machine activates, slowly sucking the magic out of Twilight. Twilight began to struggle as she was being drained. The hose transports the magic into the machine and starts filling containers full of it.

As Lia was laughing mischievously thinking she was unstoppable, one of Lia’s guards turns against the other by the hose controls and immediately switches off the controls. The hose gets released from her horn, and the anti-magic box opens. “YOU FOOL!” Lia yelled. “You treacherous fool! I will have you fired for this!”

“You see what the irony is of that?” The guard asked as he removes his helmet revealing himself to be Roland. “You already have.”

“ROLAND!” Lia yelled. “You have a lot of nerve doing what you did! I’ll have you arrested for this!”

“Not if I have everything to say about it!” Twilight said as she aimed her horn towards Lia.

“Twilight!” Rarity called out as she ran over to Twilight and gave her a hug.

“Rarity!” Twilight said excitedly.

“Are you ok, darling?” Rarity asked worryingly.

“A little woozy, but I’m alright.” Twilight said. “Nevermind me though, what happened to you?” She observed her wet mane and dirt all over her.

“Oh.” Rarity chuckled embarrassingly. “It’s a long story.”

“Well you came just in time.” Twilight said.

“Just in time?!” Gilda complained. “It’s ABOUT time you came!”

“Pardon my poor memory of faces, but is that Gilda?” Rarity asked.

“Yeah, but nevermind that.” Twilight said.

“Oh yeah, like I’m anything special.” Gilda said sarcastically.

“President Lia, I want you to give the magic back to these poor griffons, and release them at once.” Twilight instructed her.

“Oh what are you going to do? Brain wash me to cancel the attack on Griffonstone?” Lia asked.

“Yes.” Twilight said as Rarity said “No.” at the same time.

“Wait what?” Twilight asked curiously.

“Twilight, you told me I shouldn’t be using my charms to get others to do my bidding, but how is you brain washing these poor creatures make you any better?” Rarity asked.

“I just want to restore the balance of peace between the griffons and cyclopes.” Twilight said. “Start up a friendship.”

“But a new friend of mine taught me that you cannot get what you want by forcing it upon others.” Rarity said as she smiles at Roland. “If we’re going to restore the balance of friendship between these two races, we’re going to do it the right way, or not do it at all.”

Twilight thought over what Rarity said and she looked down feeling bad. “Wow… Rarity, you’re right. Starswirl’s book is bringing wealth of knowledge and power to my head, making me abuse my gift.”

“As I have abused mine.” Rarity said.

Twilight and Rarity both smile at eachother, and they both looked over at Ria and Twilight said, “President Ria, perhaps it is time to start negotiations again. I have a deal for you!”

So after a deal was made, the head Arlmaspian cyclopes were marching towards Griffonstone. The griffons of Griffonstone felt the earth shaking from the cyclopes’ stamping feet. They all felt worried, but as the new king walked out of the castle he calmed his subjects, and then he and his guards started walking towards the cyclopes as the cyclopes came closer. Twilight and Rarity were up on another part of Griffonstone’s mountain watching over everything that was going on. When the griffons and the cyclopes walked up to eachother, and President Lia and the king saw eye to eye, they glared at eachother in silence.

“C’mon, President Lia!” Twilight mumbled. Not saying anything, Lia nods to her guards. Her guards then turn around and unchained the captured griffons, setting them free. The griffons happily ran over to the king, but not before Gilda sticks her tongue out at one of the guards.

“Why I outta…!” The guard said angrily, lifting a fist. The other guard stopped him though. After the griffons were released, the king nodded to one of his guards and the guard walks over to the president, giving her the Idol of Boreas. Lia smiles as she takes the idol, observing it carefully, making sure it was real. Lia takes out her hand to the king, and the king accepts it, and he shakes it. By the time that happened, Twilight’s and Rarity’s cutie marks began to vibrate.

“Well, Rarity, I guess it just goes to show, being reasonable is the way to go!” Rarity said.

“Yeah but we already knew that.” Rarity reminded her.

“Yeah, but sometimes we can forget something we already learned in the past.” Twilight said. “Sometimes our gifts get the better of us.”

“Well no matter what, I was glad to have done it with you, Twilight!” Rarity said as they both hugged.

“I’m glad things worked out for the better.” Roland said as he walks over to the ponies. “President Lia, wants me to personally thank you for everything. Without you, this could’ve all ended in violence, and as you may know, we do have a nation to keep running and have no time for war.”

“So does that mean you got your job back?” Twilight asked.

“Even better!” Roland said. “I got a promotion to ambassador! I’ll be going to Equestria from time to time, and we were actually thinking of linking up with Equestria officially.”

“So I guess you’ll be a part of our world after all, huh?” Twilight asked.

“Perhaps.” Roland said. “But, Princess Twilight, you better keep that book in a safe place.”

“Absolutely!” Twilight agreed. “A book like Starswirl’s long lost magics taken into the wrong hooves would make tragic consequences. I have to keep a closer eye on it, and use it more wisely. From now on, I’m going to be studying the book from only at home, and using the magic I learned on the adventures.”

“Sounds like a fair idea, darling!” Rarity agreed. She then looks over at Roland and says, “Now Roland, would you please be a dear and help us get home?”

“Oh yes, you beautiful angel!” Roland said as he felt blushly around Rarity with her newer… not-so-fabulous look.

“Hm! Everyone seems to have their weakness. I guess not everybody likes the same look.” Rarity said as she fluffed her mane. Twilight then glares at her. “What? I’m not FORCING him to do anything, but you have to admit, my delightful charms have helped us get out of situations before, and it does have its advantages.” Twilight rolls her eyes and shakes her head.

Author's Note

I knew the name "Out of this World" meant it was time for a Twilight chapter, and have Starswirl's book play a part in the process! When I first made summaries of these fake names from 4chan, I also saw that it lacked Rarity episodes. Runway Success was the only Rarity episode I made in the bunch, and I knew that wasn't going to be enough for her. In the old version of this chapter, Twilight and Rarity return to Starswirl's castle. As she was there for some of Starswirl's fabulous decor, Twilight would learn from the book, but go too far and Rarity would end up rescuing her.

After I saw the season 5 finale, there was no proof of not using the Map of Harmony anymore, so after seeing the finale, I redid the summaries and added the cutie map to some of the chapters. After changing up Flutterspy a bit, I decided to connect that and this chapter together. Since I loved the use of having chapters intertwine from seasons 3 and 5, I wanted to do it again here. I thought it was a really interesting idea to have the cutie map send four of the main characters to two different places at once! Did you also know there was never a Twilight and Rarity episode of just them in the main series? I'm sure they'll be making one sooner or later.

Making Twilight was easy for this chapter, but I had no clue what to do with Rarity. I thought it would be a good idea to make Rarity think she lost her charm because in many episodes in past seasons, she used her charms to try to manipulate stallions (and Spike). It would be nice if that trick didn't work on everyone, and now Spike is becoming immune to it slowly, but mainly because he's got more motivation in his life, which is what I really want from the little guy.

Royal Guard

(Cites are down at the author's notes)

One morning over at Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack and Big Mac both got up bright and early. Applejack took a big sniff in the air and said, “Ah the sweet smell of a sweet apple acre! Wouldn’t you agree, Big Mac?”

“Eeyup!” Big Mac said as he took out a wheelbarrow full of farming tools.

“Ah can already smell the fresh air!” Applejack said as she takes another sniff. “Hmm…” She thought. “Then again, somethin’ ain’t quite right. Where’s that fresh apple scent? Big Mac, do you smell it?”

Big Mac takes a sniff, and then he says, “Nnnope.”

Applejack curiously walked over to a tree in the orchard and she kicked onto a tree, but nothing came down. She kept again just to double check, but all that fell on her head was a pinecone with a note on it. “What in tarnation?” She asked as she rubbed her head. She spotted the pinecone lying on the ground and she picked it up. She then looked at the note and read it, “I.O.U. Uhh… what?”

“AAAH!” Apple Bloom screamed from inside the farmhouse which alarmed Applejack.

“Apple Bloom?!” Applejack yelled. She ran into the farmhouse and up the stairs and saw Apple Bloom breathing hysterically. “Apple Bloom, what’s wrong?!”

“Apple- Apple- Apple- Apple- Apple!” Apple Bloom stuttered.

Applejack gave Apple Bloom a paper bag to breathe into and she instructed Apple Bloom to take deep breaths. “There, there, Apple Bloom. Inhale… exhale… inhale… exhale.”

Apple Bloom breathed normally after she removed the paper bag from her mouth. She then smiled and said, “Phew. Thanks, Applejack!”

“What happened, sugarcube?” Applejack asked. “Why did you scream like that?”

“Wait, why did ah scream again?” Apple Bloom thought it over. “Oh yeah, ah remember. AAAAAAH!” She screamed again.

“APPLE BLOOM! What’s wrong?!” Applejack asked.

“Mah rock collection is gone!” Apple Bloom cried.

“Wait, what?” Applejack asked curiously.

“Mah colorful rock collection! It disappeared! All ah got is this piece of paper with the letters I.O.U.!” Apple Bloom cried as she showed Applejack the note.

“Wait, when did you get a rock collection?” Applejack asked.

“Pinkie’s sister Maud got me interested in rocks.” Apple Bloom said. “Ah dunno what happened! Ah swear it was right there! Ah didn’t move it! Did you take it? Or is Big Mac onto his little pranks again?”

“HEY!” Big Mac said angrily as he leaned his head into Apple Bloom’s room. “Ah’ll have you know that even if ah did go back to mah little pranks again, which ah didn’t, ah wouldn’t go so far as to touch your stuff, Apple Bloom.” He then leaves.

“Wait, what did you say about a note?” Applejack remembers.

“This one here.” Apple Bloom said as she gives the note to Applejack to look at.

“Wait a minute! Ah got this same exact note when ah was buckin’ trees.” Applejack said.

“It’s not just that, Applejack.” Granny Smith said as she walks inside Apple Bloom’s room. “There is a giant hole on the kitchen floor. It’s like somepony flew in from the ground. Er, I mean… dug in from the roof; or… d’oh, you know what ah mean!”

“Well, ah think its official then.” Applejack said worryingly. “We have a thief in town!”

Over at the castle, Twilight was skipping excitedly through the halls, humming to herself, “It’s happening! It’s happening! I can’t wait!” She continued to skip through the halls until she ran into Spike who was carrying a bunch of scrolls. She accidently knocks into him and they both fall, and Spike drops all of the scrolls. “Oh, sorry Spike.” Twilight said as she picked up all of the scrolls with her magic.

Spike rubs his head and says, “No worries, Twilight. Accidents happen. What got you so excited?”

“Did you hear the news?” Twilight asked.

“That depends on which news you’re talking about.” Spike teased.

“Alright, you wise-crack of a dragon.” Twilight chuckled. Spike smiles with glee. “Anyways, my brother Shining Armor’s coming to town!”

“Awesome!” Spike said excitedly. “I guess he took some time off from royal duties and the baby to come to his favorite sister!”

“Actually, Skyla’s coming too.” Twilight said. “Shining thought it would’ve been nice if Skyla got to see her aunt again, and of course her Uncle Spike too!”

Spike chuckles and said, “Well, I’d love to see her, but once I’m done here. I have to take these scrolls back to town hall.”

“Town hall? What are you doing there?” Twilight asked.

“Well, I realized baking wasn’t my thing, so the mayor hired me to copy some of the town achieves.” Spike said.

“Are you going to tell me why you keep trying to find jobs around town?” Twilight asked.

Spike got a little nervous, because he didn’t want to tell her what he’s trying to do yet. “Well… I…”

“Twilight!” Starlight called out as she ran over to her.

“Hold that thought, Spike. Starlight, what’s going on?” Twilight asked.

“I’m not sure what’s going on, but there’s a bunch of angry townfolk outside, and I really don’t know what to say.” Starlight said. “I felt that I needed some professional help.”

Twilight, Starlight, and Spike all went outside to check up on the angry mob. Twilight gasped as she walked outside. Everypony was shouting all at once, but Twilight needed to control the crowd first. “OK! OK! ONE AT A TIME!” Twilight yelled as the crowd continued yelling.

“Yeah I think you need to be a little more specific, Twilight.” Spike informed her. As everypony continued yelling, Pinkie was hopping right in the middle of the crowd, shouting about random baking ingredients.

“Alright everypony! Please! One at a time! I can’t hear you all at the same time!” Twilight called out, but nopony listened.

Starlight used her magic to raise her voice at the volume of a megaphone and she yells, “QUIEEEEEEEEEEEEET!” Everypony immediately stops shouting.

“Thank you, Starlight.” Twilight said.

“You better! That REALLY hurt my throat!” Starlight complained.

“Ok… now, Mr. and Mrs. Cake, what’s going on?” Twilight asked.

“Well we had a break-in last night it seems.” Mr. Cake said as he and his wife were holding their babies. “Somepony broke in and stole our silver baking tins.”

“Have you found any clues?” Twilight asked.

“Just this I.O.U. message.” Mrs. Cake said as she shows Twilight the message, and Twilight observes it. “Do you have any idea what it means?”

“Hmm, that’s odd.” Rarity commented. “I have received a similar message when somepony stole my ribbons.” She takes out the same message and shows it to Twilight.

“Yeah same here!” Doctor Whooves said. “It is incredibly odd.”

“I think we all had something stolen and received the same message.” Fluttershy said.

“Is it a COINCIDENCE?!” Pinkie yelled while squeezing in between Zecora and Cheerilee. “Or… maybe it’s…” Pinkie takes out a monocular and places it on her eye, “…a mystery.” Zecora and Cheerilee both looked at eachother awkwardly. “You see I had to rely on this monocular because I could find any magnifying glasses.”

“Setting that awkward dramatic moment aside,” Twilight said awkwardly, “Pinkie Pie’s right. There is a mystery happening in town. Did anypony discuss this with the mayor?”

“I’m just as curious as all of you are.” The mayor said in the crowd. “If you ask me though, I say we have a thief in town, and it is time we did something about it!”

“Yeah!” Rainbow Dash shouted as she flew into the air and starts performing punches and kicks. “We’ll teach that thief a thing or two for disturbing the peace in OUR town!” Everypony in the crowd agreed.

“We need to protect our homes and our belongings!” Lucky Clover cried out as everypony continued shouting.

“No we need to fight back!” Lemon Hearts yelled.

“No we need somepony to protect us!” Coco Crusoe panicked.

“NO!” Pinkie yelled. “We should just magically pick up Ponyville, and move it to a safer place! Simple as that!”

“EVERYPONY!” Twilight yelled as everypony continued to rabble on. “We can’t panic! All of those are good ideas! Well… most of them are, but we won’t get anywhere if we panic like this!” Nopony listened to her still.

“Why did they bother coming to you if they won’t listen to you anyway?” Starlight complained.

“Oh sweet mother of Equestria! What am I going to do?” Twilight asked worryingly.

“EVERYPONY SHUSH!” A familiar voice shouted and like magic, everypony’s lips got sealed. Everypony looked behind them, and there he was – Shining Armor, along with his daughter Princess Skyla riding on his back, laughing, and making raspberry noises.

“Big brother!” Twilight said excitedly as she ran over to him and gave him a hug.

“Twilie!” Shining said excitedly. “Looks like you got yourself in quite a pickle here with the townfolk.”

“You have NO idea!” Twilight said as she rolled her eyes. She then leans over and nuzzles Skyla. “Hey there, my little princess!”

“So what’s going on?” Shining asked as he and Twilight walked over to castle.

“Well all these ponies came to the castle asking me what they should do, even though they refused to listen to me.” Twilight explained.

“Don’t worry, Twilie. Just explain everything to me when we get inside.” Shining suggested as the duo walked inside, followed by Starlight and Spike, and the doors shut behind them. After a few moments, Shining opens the door and undoes his spell to the townfolk. Everypony blabbered a bit as they all walked away.

Over in the map room, Twilight explains to her brother what the townsfolk have been complaining about as she cradles Skyla on her arms. “So… a thief in town, huh?” Shining asked. “And all the clues there is here is just I.O.U. messages.”

“Yes, which concerns me.” Twilight said. “Why would a thief leave these messages behind?”

“Well if a thief leaves a clue behind by placing it, there might be hoof prints on it.” Shining said.

“How do you know all this?” Starlight asked.

“When I was Captain of the Royal Guard, back when I was still living in Canterlot, I had to learn these things.” Shining said. “When a criminal leaves stuff behind, there might be biological evidence behind it.”

“That’s my brother – the all mighty detective!” Twilight said. “Shining Armor Private Eye!”

“Heh, yeah!” Shining chuckled. “I remember when you called me that back when we played Detective when we were little.”

“Maybe we should play it again!” Twilight suggested.

“Perhaps we should.” Shining agreed.

“I’m going to go help out the townsfolk and see what’s happening. I’ll let you know if there’s any news.” Starlight offered as she walks out of the room.

“So, BBBFF, where should we start?” Twilight asked. Just then, a green stench starts floating out of Skyla’s diaper and into Twilight’s nose. Skyla chuckles as Twilight holds her nose. “Yeah, I think that answers my question.”

So after Skyla was taken care of, Twilight and Shining (along with Skyla on her father’s back) all went around town to talk to the other ponies around town about what happened. They started off at the Ponyville School, where Cheerilee just finished teaching her class. The other students were walking out as Twilight and Shining arrived. Twilight and Shining allow the CMCs to play with Skyla as they spoke with Cheerilee inside.

“It is good to see you again, Shining Armor!” Cheerilee said as she was sitting on her desk.

“Likewise, Miss Cheerilee!” Shining said.

“So you two wanted to talk to me about the strange robberies that have occurred around town?” Cheerilee asked.

“Yes. We want to get a lead on who is responsible.” Twilight said. “Has anything been stolen from you recently?”

Cheerilee straightens out one of the pencils on her desk and says, “Well come to think of it, I did mysteriously lose my Teacher of the Year trophy.”

“Ouch. I hope that wasn’t too bad for you.” Shining said.

“Oh not at all!” Cheerilee said happily. Cheerilee then receives a flashback of her screaming and smashing all of her furniture. The ponies outside were a little freaked out by her huge meltdown. When Cheerilee’s flashback ends, she just giggles, and Shining and Twilight just looked at eachother awkwardly.

“Ooook then.” Twilight said. “So did you find any clues on who stole your trophy?”

Cheerilee clears her throat and says, “Well, I didn’t get a good view of who it was. All I saw was a small shadow. It was strong enough to carry my trophy but it wasn’t that much bigger than the trophy itself.”

“Did it run in any particular direction?” Twilight asked.

“Just down a hole in my kitchen.” Cheerilee said.

“So you’re saying they… dug through?” Twilight asked.

“It would seem so.” Cheerilee said. “It was a hole 4 inches wide, and very deep.”

“Hmm, sounds like we have pretty good diggers that are stealing stuff from around Ponyville. Wouldn’t you agree, Twilie?” Shining asked.

“I wouldn’t doubt it for a second!” Twilight said. “Thank you so much for your time, Cheerilee, and we promise we’ll get you your trophy back!”

“Any time, Twilight! Any time!” Cheerilee said with a big grin on her face. As Twilight and Shining both walked out of the school house, Cheerilee’s eye twitched in the most stressful way.

Twilight and Shining continue their findings over at Sugarcube Corner where Mr. and Mrs. Cake show them the hole on their kitchen floor, and Skyla was playing with the Cake babies. Shining took a closer look and observed it. “So… the intruders came through here.”

“Yes, and they made off with our silver baking pans.” Mr. Cake said. “Very special.”

“We’ve had them for many, many years.” Mrs. Cake said. “We’ve baked our most special cakes with them.”

“Hmm.” Twilight observes the hole. “4 inches wide, just like Cheerilee’s.”

“Did either of you see the robbers?” Shining asked.

“I wish we did.” Mr. Cake said. “It was too dark.”

“And we were afraid.” Mrs. Cake said. “We would’ve had a good chance if we were just brave enough to attack.”

“Brave enough to attack?” Twilight asked.

“Well we don’t know how to fight.” Mr. Cake said. “We’re bakers, not police officers.”

“Ooo, Mayor Mare really needs to set up some security in town.” Mrs. Cake said. “It’s not every day that we have something strange breaking into our homes and stealing our precious belongings.”

Just then, the front door suddenly slams open with the mayor yelling, “Princess Twilight!” Just then, all the babies started to cry from the loud bang. “Oh woops.” The mayor said.

“Mayor!” Twilight yelled angrily.

“I panicked, I’m sorry!” The mayor said. Just then, Skyla’s crying starts a chain reaction with her magic. The refrigerator in the kitchen opens, and pies start flying out and all of the pies splattered onto the mayor’s face. The babies all then laughed at the mayor’s humiliation, and even Twilight, Shining, and the Cakes laughed too. The mayor then laughed along and said, “Ok, I probably deserved that!”

“So what’s going on, Mayor?” Twilight asked. “What’s the big emergency?”

“Huh? Oh right! Another break-in has occurred.” The mayor said.

“Where?” Twilight asked.

“Over at-“ The mayor started, but she started tasting the blueberries on her face. “Mmm! This is good! What sort of recipe is this?”

“Well,” Mrs. Cake started, “it’s just the usual of flour, sugar, water, and the fresh blueberries from-“

“No time for that!” Twilight interrupted. “Just where did the break-in occur?”

“Oh, over at Fluttershy’s cottage.” The mayor said.

“Oh no! Not Fluttershy!” Twilight said nervously.

Shining, Twilight, and the mayor all headed over to the cottage to help Fluttershy out with her problem. Skyla was playing with Angel’s ears, which Angel didn’t really mind since it seemed to comfort him. Fluttershy herself was breathing in a paper bag provided by the mayor as Shining and Twilight observed the hole. “Same size, same exact shape.” Shining said.

“If this happened recently in broad daylight, then Fluttershy must have seen who did it.” Twilight presumed.

“It’s worth a try.” Shining said.

Twilight walked over to Fluttershy and asked her while comforting her, “Are you ok, Fluttershy?”

“No!” Fluttershy shouted while startling her and the mayor. “I don’t think I can go on like this! It’s just too horrible!”

“Don’t worry, Fluttershy.” Shining comforted her. “We’ll get to the bottom on whoever stole your… umm… what exactly did they stole from you?”

“They didn’t steal anything from me.” Fluttershy said.

“They didn’t?” Shining asked.

“Then why are you freaking out?” Twilight asked.

“They stole from Angel!” Fluttershy freaked out as she continued breathing through the bag. “They stole his shiny little bowl that I made for him! I mean look at Angel! He’s so upset about this!” Angel just rolls his eyes and shakes his head.

“Riiiight.” Shining said awkwardly. Twilight elbows her brother hard since she thought it wasn’t very applicate to say in front of her. “Ow!”

“Regardless, we’ll find whoever did this to you.” Twilight said.

“Not to me, to Angel.” Fluttershy corrected her.

“Right, to Angel.” Twilight repeated herself. “So did you see who might’ve done this?”

“No, I was too scared.” Fluttershy said. “It was a great big shadow, I know that much. It is not every day we get criminals in a peaceful town like this. I thought we were a criminal-free environment?”

“I agree!” Rainbow Dash said as she entered the cottage. “Even though I’d be awesome enough to defend myself from any kind of criminal, I fear for my friends.”

“Yeah this is just too much.” Applejack agreed as she too walked inside. “If there’s a criminal in town, we need to take security precautions.”

“Yeah, like one of those cupcakes with the little cameras on them.” Pinkie said. “You know the ones that secret agents have? How do I know that you may ask? I saw video footage of the inside of my stomach.”

“Wow, thanks for that mental image, Pinkie.” Rainbow said feeling grossed out.

“Who knew my stomach acid was actually chocolate syrup?” Pinkie asked.

“Mayor Mare! We need you to make a police force in this town!” Rarity requested. “I will not standby and tolerate others stealing my rare shinny fabrics and have them get away with it!”

“Yeah, why don’t we have a police force in town?” Applejack complained. All of them walked over to the mayor and kept complaining to her. The mayor was feeling stressed out, and didn’t know what to say.

Twilight immediately stepped in and defended her. “Alright girls, let’s calm down! It doesn’t help the mayor when we all complain to her at once. How about we just do a town meeting? Perhaps we’ll have some townsfolk volunteer to be the town’s sheriff.”

“Yes, precisely.” The mayor said. “We have the current Equestria record of being the most peaceful town in Equestria. We shall keep that record if it means having some ponies step in to help secure the town of any little threats that come by.”

“Um, actually, Mayor, if I may?” Shining asked. “I think I have a better idea.”

So after a discussion, they all finally agreed to go with Shining’s idea. Over at Town Hall, the townsfolk all met for a town meeting. “Hmm, I wonder why the mayor has called us all here?” Cheerilee asked.

“Perhaps she might be finally agreeing to bring in the police force.” Mrs. Cake presumed.

“I have the feeling she might pick one of us to do it.” Mr. Cake said. “One thing’s for sure, I hope it isn’t me.”

“Eeyup.” Big Mac agreed.

“Yeah.” Mr. Cake said. “Wait… what does that supposed to mean?!”

The mayor, Twilight, and Shining walked up to the stage so the meeting can start. Twilight and Shining was in the back of the stage while Skyla was on Twilight’s back as Twilight smiled at her. The mayor walks up to her stand and clears her throat. “Good afternoon, Ponyville.” She started. “Now, we are here today to discuss the security measures here in town. I spoke to Princess Twilight and her brother Prince Shining Armor about it, and as it turns out, we are not going to have a police force here in town.”

Everypony in the audience began to complain and rant, but the mayor didn’t let that get to her because she expected it. She continues, “I know you’d be upset about that, but as it turns out, Shining Armor has an idea that might indeed help out our situation.”

The mayor moves out of her pillar and Shining walks up to it. He just adjusts the microphone and he clears his throat. “Umm… hi. Umm… I’m not much of a… public speaker.” He chuckled embarrassingly. “My wife is usually the speaker of the empire, but I’ll… I’ll do my best.”

“Is he ok?” The mayor whispered into Twilight’s ear.

“He’s not usually open to talk to a crowd standing that close to him.” Twilight said. “If it’s a stadium, no problem, but if he’s on stage, then he gets a little shaken.”

“Now then, I’m sure you all wanted a police force to be made in town, but I assure you that there is no need for that.” Shining explained. “I’ve devised a plan that would help all of you protect your homes and yourselves from any criminal threats.”

“Move Ponyville to another location?!” Pinkie suggested.

“I’m going to be training all of you to fight for yourselves.” Shining said as the townsfolk got confused. “Yes, I know you all are not soldiers, or police officers, or even royal guards, but if you know how to fend for yourselves there is no need to rely on others coming to the rescue. It takes time for help to come, but if you can take care of yourselves, you can fight off the problems right away; and I’ll be here to train all of you. It’s nothing professional, but it’ll be enough.”

“But we’re not fighters. We’re just simple townfolk trying to make a living!” Noteworthy shouted.

“Simple townfolk or not, even the most peaceful places in Equestria get threats from time to time.” Shining explained as a projector screen went down. “I don’t think I need to remind you of all the threats that happened to you in the past. A lot of these can be prevented if everypony in town learns to defend themselves from any other threat that may come in the future.” The photos of the projection show reveal the events of the threats Ponyville had in the past including Discord, the Tumbleweed vines, Cerberus, the Bugbear, Lord Tirek, Trixie with the Alicorn Amulet, and even the giant grown-up Spike. Right after, the projector immediately turns off.

It turns out Spike unplugged the projector, and then he angrily complains to the mayor, “Why would you show everypony a photo of that?! Are you trying to make me feel bad?!” The mayor smiles in embarrassment.

“So what do you say everypony?” Shining asked the crowd. “Shall we work together to make Ponyville a better place?!”

“YEAH!” Everypony yelled.

“Do we want to make your town criminal free?!” Shining yelled.

“YEAH!” Everypony yelled.

“Then let’s do it! I shall train all of you to be like guards!” Shining yelled out in excitement.

“Yay…” The town cheered nervously.

Shining was feeling concerned to why the ponies weren’t enthusiastic enough, but Twilight walks up to him and says, “Don’t worry, big bro, they’ll warm up to the idea.”

“I hope so, Twilie, for the sake of Ponyville.” Shining said. He then mischievously smirks over at the crowd and says, “But I think I have a method that will really help these ponies out!”

So many of the townsfolk gathered into the large field over at Sweet Apple Acres, where the field gets set up into a training facility. The townsfolk that decided to go all put on some training armor that Shining provided for them. Some felt awkward, some were nervous, and some even felt uncomfortable in the uniforms, such as Rainbow Dash. She scratches herself all over and complains, “Why does Twilight’s brother have to make us wear these itchy outfits?”

“It’s trainin’ armor.” Applejack said. “Shinin’ Armor said we’ll need it for the training.”

“Training armor or not, that pony does NOT know sense of fashion!” Rarity complained. “I mean who would ever wear gray? It’s so… bleh!”

“Really? Because I thought ‘bleh’ had color in it?” Pinkie asked.

“Ew! That statement made me like the armor!” Rarity complained feeling disgusted.

“TEN HUT!” Shining yelled as everypony stopped what they were doing and paid attention to him. Shining was wearing his royal guard armor from back in his Canterlot guard days.

“What’s going on?” Rainbow asked.

“I SAID TEN HUT!” Shining yelled at her face as everypony immediately stood still.

“SIR, YES SIR!” Rainbow saluted.

“Good.” Shining said as he walked around and gave a speech. “Now then. I’ve come before all of you today to whip you whimps into shape. If you want to defend yourselves and your homes, you’ll do exactly as I say. Got it?” Everypony mumbled ‘yeah’ or ‘yes’ or ‘meh’. “I CAN’T HEAR YOU!” He yelled.

“YES, SIR!” everypony yelled.

“I’m pleased to hear it.” Shining said. “Now what I’m about to train you is the best ways to train yourselves in the arts of defense. I know you whimps aren’t royal guard worthy, because only the best of the best get to be royal guards. It’s not all about the looks!” He yells at Bulk Biceps at his last remark, which kinda scares him a bit. “It is about your intellect!” He yells at Cheerilee. “It’s about your strength!” He yells at Big Mac. “No energy boosts are allowed!” He yells at Zecora. “None of you are receiving any special treatments!” He yells at Mr. and Mrs. Cake. “Pony or otherwise!” He yells at Cranky and Matilda. Cranky was feeling grouchy at his remark, but Matilda calmed down. “And most important: none of you are receiving any special treatment!” He yells at the crusaders as they held eachother close in fright.

“Please don’t hurt us!” Apple Bloom begged.

“Ok, that is enough!” Applejack yelled at Shining. “Is all of this really necessary? All this yellin’ and demandin’?”

“That, Applejack, just costed you 50 pushups.” Shining ordered her.

“C’mon! Stop bein’ so ridiculous!” Applejack complained.

“NOW!” Shining yelled which really startled Applejack and she started push-uping.

“Um, Shining?” Fluttershy asked with her hoof up.

“That’s Captain Armor to you!” Shining yelled at her.

Fluttershy covers her face and whimpers, “I’m sorry!”

“So? What’s your question, recruit?” Shining asked.

“Nothing.” Fluttershy whimpers. “Forget I said anything.”

“SPIT IT OUT, SOLDIER!” Shining yelled.

“She wants to know where Twilight is.” Rainbow informs him.

“She, Spike, and Starlight are getting to the bottom of this mystery for you.” Shining said.

“Ok… good.” Rainbow said.

“That question costed you 50 push-ups, Miss Dash. Get to it!” Shining ordered. Rainbow sighs, but then Shining yells, “That sigh costed 50 more! 100 push-ups!” Rainbow flies down to the floor and begins to do push-ups. “Delay drop! 50 more!” He yells.

“Oh you gotta be kidding me!” Rainbow complained.

“100 more!” Shining yelled. Pinkie starts giggling. “YOU WANT TO JOIN HER?!” He yells at Pinkie.

“No!” Pinkie begged.

“Oh c’mon! How come she got a warning but I didn’t?!” Rainbow complained.

“50 more!” Shining yelled at Rainbow.

“Does anypony have any more questions?” Shining asked the townsfolk. No one said anything. “Good, because it’s wise never to ask too many questions. Now let’s get started with a simple obstacle course.”

“Well at least the course is simple.” Applejack whispered to her friends.

Shining points over to the obstacle course on the other side of the field and explains what everypony has to do. “So, you’ll be starting off at the starting line here where you’ll have to run over to the mud pit with the barbwires on top. You’ll have to crouch under the wires and through the mud pit where a rain storm will be stationed above. And WITHOUT rain boots, RARITY!” Rarity immediately stops putting on her boots and she groans loudly as she takes them back off. Shining then continues, “After that, you’ll be swinging these slippery prickery vines on top of an alligator pit.”

“Gummy?” Pinkie asked excitedly. Just then, a giant alligator pops out and chews off one of the three vine ropes. Pinkie then giggles and says, “Gummy, did you eat all the éclairs in the fridge again?”

“Real talk here, Pinkie. I don’t think that’s Gummy.” Rainbow informed her.

“YOU TALKED! 50 MORE!” Shining yelled at Rainbow.

“Pinkie talked more!” Rainbow complained.

“Want to make it 100 more?” Shining asked her. Rainbow sighs as she continues.

“And then finally,” Shining continues, “you’ll be climbing this rock-climbing wall full of various traps.” One of the traps go off, and it was a pie that springs out. “You’ll have to climb that 20 foot wall all the way to the top, and ring that bell. Oh, and no magic or wings are allowed. Do the earth pony way, otherwise you’ll have to start the course over.” The whole crowd groans.

“Beg your pardon, Captain, but that there is NOT an easy course.” Applejack informed him.

“Easier than what we usually do in the academy.” Shining said. “We usually get paintballs shot at us while doing the course.” Shining uses his magic to shoot Applejack with a paintball out of his horn.

“Yeah and how is any of this necessary for self-defense?” Rarity asked.

“You have to be prepared for any obstacle a robber may throw at you.” Shining said. “Now then, if there aren’t any other questions…” Just then, the whole crowd puts their hooves up. “No questions? Good. MOVE OUT!” So the whole town prepares themselves for the obstacle course.

Rainbow stands up and says, “Heh! That looks too easy!”

“Did I say you could stop push-upping?!” Shining yelled at Rainbow.

“Oh c’mon! Push-ups are so boring! Let me do the course!” Rainbow complained.

“200 more!” Shining yelled.

“UGH!” Rainbow groaned as she continued to do her push-ups, and the rest of the town ran over to the starting line of the obstacle course.

Meanwhile, back in the nearly empty Ponyville, Twilight, Spike, and Starlight were searching around town for clues on the mysterious thievery. They each had walkie-talkies so they can communicate with each other while they split up to these different sections. Spike was looking around Carousel Boutique for the thieves while singing to himself. “Mmm hmm hmmm… bad thieves, oh bad thieves, we’re coming for you. There’s nothing in the world that you can never do… to harm me- wow…” He immediately stops singing. “See, this is why I don’t sing.”

“Meow.” A voice said from behind the mirrors. Spike got startled a bit and immediately shined the flashlight towards the mirrors, and it was just Opal licking herself in the darkness. Spike felt foolish to fall for that, as he knew pretty well that Rarity in fact HAS a cat. Just then, Spike’s walkie-talkie went off with Twilight’s voice coming out of it.

“Starlight? Spike? How are things going?” Twilight asked.

Spike picked up the walkie-talkie and said through it, “Um, I’m sorry, I couldn’t hear that.”

“I said how are things going?” Twilight repeated.

“Nope, still nothing.” Spike said.

Twilight sighs and says, “This is Bravo Pony to Alpha Dragon, do you read?”

“Loud and clear, Bravo Pony!” Spike said excitedly. “Everything’s clear over at the boutique. Got a birthday cake in the ball hoops, over.”

“Spike, you really need to stop reading those military comics.” Twilight said.

“Do I ever stop you from reading romantic sci-fis out loud?” Spike asked with a smirk.

Twilight sighs and asks, “How about you, Starlight? How are things on your end?”

Starlight was at the Jewelry Store investigating it, because the entire store got ransacked. “Well… every piece of jewelry got ransacked, as expected. Nothing surprising here.” She said on her radio.

“Oh yeah?” The jewelry store owner asked, feeling insulted. “I’d like to see all of your inventory in YOUR store get stolen without a trace!”

“I don’t have a store, so that isn’t my problem.” Starlight said.

“Starlight!” Twilight yelled.

“Oh… sorry about that insult.” Starlight said to the owner. “Don’t worry, I promise we’ll get your inventory back, and everything will be just fine.”

“It better! I don’t trust my insurance company one bit.” The owner said worryingly.

“How about you, Twilight?” Starlight asked on her walkie-talkie. “How are things going at the castle?”

“So far so good.” Twilight said as she searched around the ground floor of her castle. “They didn’t break into the castle yet, but the amount of treasure that is contained here, I have the feeling it won’t be long.”

“So what are you going to do?” Starlight asked.

“I already set up traps around the ground floor since whoever is breaking into the buildings around town seems to be through the ground.” Twilight explained. There were traps set up all around such as a hanging piano, a hanging safe, some butterfly nets, tranquilizer darts, glue and feathers, and others.

“I sense a cliché about to happen.” Spike said.

“Don’t worry, Spike, I’m constantly alert.” Twilight said as she looked around.

“I told you already, I’m Alpha Dragon! Call me by my code name!” Spike demanded.

“Twilight, are you sure whoever is doing this is going to be at the castle?” Starlight asked. “I mean, who would have the nerve to infiltrate the castle containing the Princess of Friendship?”

“Because I have Spike’s hidden stash of gems out in the open. No thief in the right mind would decline this offer.” Twilight explained.

“Bravo Pony, if you’re going to keep using my stuff without my permission, I’m going to start touching your stuff without yours.” Spike complained.

Twilight suddenly hears a rumbling noise coming from under the castle. “Here they come! I better hide.” Twilight said as she jumps behind one of the columns. The ground was shaking below Twilight; she can feel the vibration below her hooves. Twilight peeks out at her traps, but so far, nothing went through the floor. The tremors were continuing, but nothing showed up still. The tremors eventually slowed down and disappeared. “What the?” Twilight asked curiously.

“What’s wrong?” Starlight asked.

“They just completely went passed the castle.” Twilight said. “They didn’t even try breaking in.”

“Perhaps they were just being polite?” Spike asked.

“Maybe.” Twilight said. “But I don’t think we can find out here. We’re going to have to go find them at the source.”

“You don’t mean?” Spike asked.

“Oh she means. I really have the feeling she means!” Starlight said.

“Yep, we’re going underground!” Twilight said.

Back with Shining Armor and the rest of the townsfolk, they were running around the orchard in two separate lines with Shining leading the pack. He started to chant, “We are the ponies of Ponyville!”

“We are the ponies of Ponyville!” The townsfolk chanted.

“It is the greatest town we ever built!” Shining chanted.

“It is the greatest town we ever built!” The townsfolk chanted.

“It is the town full of friendship and harmony!” Shining chanted.

“It is the town full of friendship and harmony!” The townsfolk chanted.

“Keep out all the chaos and agony!” Shining chanted.

“Keep out all the chaos and agony!” The townsfolk chanted.

“Sound off!”

“One-two!”

“Sound off!”

“Three-four!”

“Once again from the top!” Shining yelled. “We are the ponies of Ponyville!”

“We are the ponies of Ponyville!” The townsfolk chanted.

“YOU KEEP TALKING LIKE YOU LIVE YOU HERE!” Rainbow Dash yelled from the distance.

“50 MORE!” Shining yelled. So as the townsfolk continued to ride around the orchard for so long, for so many miles, Big Mac started to feel dehydrated. He was breathing heavily and started to slow down as everypony was running passed him. He then collapsed to the ground, and Applejack got worried and ran up to him.

“Big Mac!” She yelled as she comforted him. “Are you ok?”

“Ugggh.” Big Mac moaned in pain.

“What is the meaning of this?!” Shining yelled as he ran over to Applejack and Big Mac. “Why are you lyin’ down in the middle of trainin’?”

“He’s exhausted. He needs to rest.” Applejack said.

“Yeah we all do!” One of the townsfolk ponies complained.

“Quiet, or I’ll make you do push-ups with Rainbow Dash!” Shining threatened him. He then turned down to Big Mac and said, “I expected more coming from you! I’ve seen fillies move better than you!” He said that as the CMCs ran by, and all three of them glared at Shining. “You’re a failure, Big McIntosh! If you want to know how to protect yourself, you’d push yourself to the limit instead of lying down like a weasel!”

Big Mac growled angrily as he stood back up. He started to angrily march over to Shining like he was about to fight him, but Applejack stopped. “Whoa nelly! Calm down, big brother. He’s not worth the extra energy.”

“No, Applejack. He needs to be ready.” Shining said. “It’s just his anger coming out that’s giving him strength. It’s what I want from him. Good job, Big McIntosh. Now let’s move out!” Shining walks up to the front of the line again.

“Wow, it’s been a while since anypony’s called you by your full name.” Applejack said to her brother.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac agreed.

“Yoohoo!” Granny Smith called out as she joined up with the pack while pulling a cart full of apple treats. “Ah hope everypony’s havin’ fun with their little games so ah made everypony some treats to help restore your energy!”

Shining sighs and facehooves himself. “First off, this isn’t a game, it’s basic training.”

“Basic… really?” Rarity asked.

“And second, why are you giving them apple sugary treats?” Shining asked.

“It’s quick sugary energy!” Granny Smith said. “It’s good for the soul.”

“Not good for the health though.” Shining said. “I will not standby and let my soldiers get fat and unhealthy because of a quick sugary snack that’s,” he goes up to Granny’s face and their muzzles touch, “good for the soul!”

“Your soldiers?!” Rarity yelled.

“Shinin’ we’re NOT soldiers!” Applejack reminded him. “We’re just townsfolk that are learning to protect themselves from danger.”

“Yeah, and dangerous things too.” Pinkie said.

“Let me tell all of you something.” Shining started. “I’m here to help you fend for yourselves of anything possible out there that would want to take advantage of your town. I mean look at you. You’re soft.” He pokes a fat pony’s belly.

“That’s what makes me huggable!” The fat pony said with joy.

“No, no! This will never do!” Shining said. “You all need to be swift and ready!”

“So, um… when are we actually going to practice fighting?” Fluttershy asked with her hoof up.

“When you all are ready.” Shining said angrily at her.

“Ok.” Fluttershy whispered in fright.

“Now then, prepare for another mile run around the orchard!” Shining called out. The entire town groaned in annoyance.

“This stinks! I wanna run!” Rainbow Dash called out from the distance.

“You’ll run when you finish your push-ups, now 40 more!” Shining called out.

“40, huh?” Rainbow asked herself. “Now he decides to be nice.”

Meanwhile over at Carousel Boutique, Twilight flies down into the hole to explore. She uses her light source spell on her horn to see down there. Spike asks on the walkie-talkie, “Bravo Pony, are you sure it’s wise to go down there by yourself? I know how to dig.”

“Sorry, Alpha Dragon, but somepony needs to watch over the town and see if the robber shows up. That’s why I’m leaving you and Starlight up there.” Twilight said.

“Just be careful down there.” Spike advised her as Twilight steps down on ground zero. Twilight searches around for any clues that may or may not be there. So far it was just rocks and dirt, and even a spider drops down on Twilight’s nose. She gets startled when she spots it and . As Twilight was searching, Spike tried to contact her, but she barely understood a word he said since the walkie-talkie became all staticy.

“Spike? Spike? Alpha Dragon? Hello?” Twilight asked on the walkie-talkie. There was no response, just static. “Starlight? Can you hear me?” There was no answer on her end either. “The cave must be interfering with the signal.” She said to herself. “I’m on my own for now.” Twilight started to hear some strange echoes coming from the other end of the cave. She slowly walked towards where the noise was coming from, but she was prepared for anything.

Twilight’s heart was beating fast, she started to sweat, because she didn’t know what to expect. Who or what is in the catacombs of Ponyville was unknown to Twilight. Just then, she trips on a pebble (how clumsy of her), and she starts to roll down to the hilly part of the cave. She goes through a spider web as she keeps rolling down to a section of the cave that was really dusty. Twilight was coughing up the dust as she attempts to stand up. She then feels something tickling up on her. She looked down and saw a group of spiders on her. She screamed as she wiped them all off her. She rubbed herself against a cave pillar and then she used her magic to cover herself, and she used some sort of shockwave to toss the spiders off her. She breathed heavily after she was finished, and then she wiped the sweat off her forehead in relief.

“Whoa! That was amazing!” A voice that sounded much like a child’s said at the other end of the cave. Twilight couldn’t see the child, as it was too dark.

“Huh?” Twilight asked. “Oh thank you! Yes, I learned that spell from Starswirl the Bearded’s book. If I ever get surrounded, the spell allows me to… HEY! Wait a minute!” After finding out there was a child in the cave, the child began to run. Twilight began chasing the child through the caves. “Hey, wait up!” Twilight called out. After finding out how fast he is, Twilight uses her teleportation spell to teleport right in front of him. “I just want to talk to you!” The child then jumps right over Twilight as if he was an Olympic star. “Whoa!” Twilight gasped in amazement as she started chasing him again. “Stop running!” She called out. “I just want to talk to you!”

The child was running towards a lighted area in the cave. Twilight felt concerned to why there was, but her question was answered when she got into cavern. It was a cavern full of random objects and furniture. “Wait, is this… is this all the stolen stuff from Ponyville?” Twilight looked around at the stolen objects until he saw the child peeking his head out. She knew he wasn’t a pony. “Well hey there, little guy!” Twilight said gently to the child. The child continues to hide in fright. “No, no, wait. Why are you hiding? I’m not gonna hurt you. I promise.”

The child peeked his head out. He looked like a puppy of some sort. “But the other dogs say that ponies are mean.”

“Who said that?” Twilight asked.

“The other Diamond Dogs.” The child said.

“The Diamond Dogs, huh?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah.” The child said.

“Well… did the other Diamond Dogs tell you it was wrong to steal from others?” Twilight asked.

“Only from other Diamond Dogs.” The child said. “From any other animal, it’s fine.”

“Animals, huh?” Twilight asked. “Well… perhaps the others don’t understand. It is not right to take from anyone.”

“It’s not?” The child asked.

“No it’s not.” Twilight said.

“So… am I going to be punished?” The child asked.

“Of course not.” Twilight said. “You don’t know any better. But I have no idea to why you have stolen all this stuff from the citizens of Ponyville.”

“The other dogs said it would make me cool if I stole a bunch of shinny stuff.” The child said.

“Well they don’t sound ‘cool’ to me.” Twilight said. “You know what I consider to be ‘cool’?”

“What?” The child asked.

“Being yourself, and doing what you think is right.” Twilight said. “Now isn’t that the coolest thing ever?”

The child nodded and smiled. “Yes. Yes it does!”

“What’s your name?” Twilight asked.

“Pit. My name is Pit.” The child said.

“Nice to meet you, Pit! I’m Twilight Sparkle!” Twilight said.

Back up on the surface, Shining was still overworking the townsfolk by making them do another obstacle course run. Rarity and Zecora were crawling down the barbwire, sweating like crazy. Rarity was really feeling disgusted that she has to step on the mud, and she growls right after Shining shoots a paintball at her.

“Get your back into it, soldiers!” Shining yelled. Bulk and Pinkie were swinging on top of the alligator pit as the alligator pops out and takes a big chompy bite at Bulk’s tail. Gummy who was hanging on Pinkie’s head pops out and jumps off of her hair and into the alligator pit.

“GUMMY!” Pinkie cried. “No! There’s a big meanie in there!” Pinkie looks down at the pit and sees Gummy and the giant alligator in there hugging eachother, and for the first time, Gummy smiles. “Oh… I see.” She starts to tear up. “You want to be with your mama, don’t you? It’s ok, Gummy. It’s where you belong.” As Pinkie was wiping her tears, Shining shoots a painball at her and Bulk.

“Move it!” Shining yelled as he starts to shoot more painballs at random ponies like Noteworthy, Cherry Berry, and Caramel. “Come on! You have to be ready for anything!” He then shoots another paintball at Big Mac, who was climbing on the rock climbing wall with Applejack. He started to get really angry again.

“Easy, sugarcube.” Applejack comforted him. “Our patience will be rewarded soon enough. Just hold your-“ Just then, another paintball gets shot at Applejack’s face. She glares over at Shining and said, “On second thought, do it, Big Mac.” Big Mac suddenly jumps off of the wall along with some of the other townsfolk and they angrily marched over to Shining.

“What’s the meaning of this, troops?!” Shining yelled. “Get back to training right now!” Nopony listened. They just kept marching over to him angrily. “Uh, soldiers? What do you think you’re doing? Soldiers?”

Just before the townsfolk could do anything to Shining, Twilight immediately shouts out which stops them, “Attention citizens of Ponyville!” All of the townsfolk immediately stopped what they were doing and turned their attention over to Twilight. Twilight was standing on the edge of the field along with Spike and Starlight beside her, and Skyla sitting on her back. “We have found your missing belongings and the burglar has been stopped!”

The entire town cheered after hearing that news. “We’re saved!” Mrs. Cake cried out.

“Thank you, Twilight Sparkle! This is such a relief!” Mr. Cake cried out.

“UGH!” Rainbow groaned as she limped towards Twilight. “I swear, one more push up, I was going to lose it! Ugh, it feels like my legs are about to fall off!”

“Wait, what?” Twilight asked.

“You don’t know, Twilight?” Rarity asked.

“What do I not know?” Twilight asked.

“Your brother wasn’t teachin’ us how to defend ourselves!” Applejack said. “He was puttin’ us through difficult obstacle courses and everythin’! How many times do we have to tell him that WE’RE NOT SOLDIERS!”

“I’m sorry for saying this, Twilight, but your brother is pretty… bossy.” Fluttershy said.

Twilight looks over at Shining as he chuckles embarrassingly. “Hey, Twilie!” He said. “So… about that robber…”

“Is this true, Shining?” Twilight asked feeling disappointed. “Did you put the entire town through difficult obstacle courses like they were part of the guard or something?”

“Yes, but I thought that was the best way to do it?” Shining asked. “I mean, the Royal Guard are highly trained professionals. I thought that’s what I needed to do so everypony would know how to defend themselves from anything?”

“Well, they’re not.” Twilight said. “All they needed to learn was to defend their homes from intruders – not protect a princess from any threats.” Skyla crosses her arms and nods in agreement to her father.

“But, I… I…” Shining sighs. “I just wanted to help Ponyville out. Anything could happen. You’ve all had disasters that hit here before.”

“Yes we did, but together as a town, we can protect ourselves from anything.” Twilight said.

“Exactly.” The mayor agreed. “You may not have known it, but for every threat this town has had, we were able to fight them off. Why? Because we have the Princess of Friendship, as well as her friends within the Elements of Harmony.”

“Exactly!” Applejack said. “We are a town of pure hearts as our strength. We can protect eachother from anythin’, but that doesn’t mean we don’t need a little help defendin’ ourselves.”

Shining looked down upsettingly, but then he smiles. “Alright, everypony! Line up!”

“Shining!” Twilight yelled.

“Don’t worry, Twilie. I know what I’m doing.” Shining winked at her.

So then, the townsfolk got pretty curious on what Shining was doing, but as it turns out, the townsfolk are finally learning how to defend themselves properly, and Shining wasn’t training them like soldiers. He was training them like friends. Giving them the guidance they needed in a proper manner. He was even extra friendly towards the little ones, and so the townsfolk began to respect him again, even Big Mac, who he brohooved.

At the end of the day as everypony was beat and turning in, Shining calls out, “Alright everypony! That was excellent work! Really excellent! I’m so proud on how far all of you have gone! Once again, I do apologize for my behavior before. I hope you can forgive me.”

“It is no problem at all, Shining Armor!” The mayor said. “Glad you can be at our service at our time of need!”

“That’s right, now we will be able to defend ourselves properly against anything that can be thrown at us!” Rainbow said. “I mean, not that I couldn’t defend myself before, but… meh, always willing to learn!”

“So once again, well done, everypony! Well done!” Shining said. “If you ever need any help just ask for some guidance from your friends and they’ll be able to help you out, and perhaps I can help you out too if I’m still in town, and… just… well done!” So everypony thanked Shining as they all began to leave.

Pinkie Pie turned back and saw Gummy with the alligator, and she smiled at him. Gummy looked over at her and smiles back. Pinkie starts to tear up again as she turns around and walks away. Gummy’s smile goes away as he starts to communicate with the mama alligator. The mama alligator communicates back, and after a short conversation full of gibberish, the mama alligator nods as Gummy started hoping over to Pinkie. Pinkie smiles with glee as she holds her arms out and Gummy hops onto Pinkie’s arms and they give eachother a big hug. Gummy looks back at his mama, and his mama waves goodbye as she dives back down into her pit.

“Well, I guess everypony in town is ready to fend off whoever may threat us next!” Twilight said.

“Thanks for reminding me who I was actually training, sis!” Shining said. “I guess I just miss being Capitan of the Royal Guard in Canterlot, training cadets. Shouting at them felt so good, but I knew it was only because I wanted to help them.”

“I know, Shining.” Twilight said. “But some ponies just don’t like taking orders the way you give them. Sometimes ponies need to know that you’re at level with them, and show them compassion and understanding instead of punishments and discipline; and by the way, you could still train the Crystal Empire Royal Guard!”

“Hmm…” Shining thought. “Yeah, you’re probably right! I should do that!” Skyla cheers in excitement. “By the way, Twilie, who was the criminal that’s been stealing Ponyville’s processions?”

“Well…” Twilight giggles. “Let’s just say the criminal has learned his lesson, and won’t be stealing anything anymore. Now that everypony has their stuff back, everything is officially back to normal!”

“Well ah’m glad we’re all ready for anythin’ that comes in our way!” Applejack said.

Just then, there was a screaming coming from the distance. “What was that?” Twilight asked.

“That sounded like Apple Bloom!” Applejack cried. “Hold on, Apple Bloom! We’re comin’!” Just then, Applejack, Big Mac, Twilight (with Skyla on her back), Starlight, Spike, and Shining all ran to where the screaming was coming from, over at the barn. They all ran to the kitchen where the screaming was coming from. “Apple Bloom, are you ok-“ Applejack was about to say, but it turns out whoever broke in had his flank kicked by the crusaders.

Scootaloo was on a fighting stance as Sweetie Belle was tying up the masked pony criminal. Apple Bloom then said, “This pony broke in and tried to steal Granny’s fancy silverware! Ah desperately couldn’t let it happen!”

“And I would’ve gotten away with it too, if it weren’t for you kids that know how to fight!” The criminal complained.

“I guess the best way for a pony to gain courage is to know what you’re fighting for!” Twilight said. Then they all laughed. Wow, what an original way to end an episode. Gee-wiz!

Author's Note

This chapter was very difficult to make! This chapter took me the longest time to make! There were so many different stories I had for this chapter and I had no idea what to do! It started off as Pop Fly's actual debut, then it turned into a Big Mac episode, then it turned into a Shining episode. I actually like the fact that I made a Shining episode mostly focusing on him and Twilight both separate and together without having Cadance in the way. There needs to be an actual episode focusing on JUST Twilight and Shining without Cadance. I also wanted Shining to interact with the townsfolk more, and make an excuse for him to finally interact with Big Mac too, since I've been wanting that for a while.

As I was making this chapter, I had a better episode idea in my head that involved Twilight foalsitting Skyla. It was a good way to show the relationship between Twilight and Skyla but I had no idea how to execute it, and I really didn't feel like starting over. So... I have the feeling this might be one of my weak chapters in the story. I do apologize for that. If you do enjoy it after all then great!

I couldn't think of the climax either on who actually stole the stuff from Ponyville. I thought of a dragon, but I'm already going to bring use to the dragons in the second half of the story. I then tried the Diamond Dogs, but if I brought the same Diamond Dogs back it might be too many voice actors, and I'm trying to keep this story realistic to MLP, that means limited budget. Yeah, I know, I'm getting a little TOO serious, aren't I? So then I just decided to use a child Diamond Dog.

Got so much to cite for today's image!

TheShadowStone for Shining vector: http://theshadowstone.deviantart.com/

Lyra: http://ask-lyrathepony.deviantart.com/

Bon Bon: http://kna.deviantart.com/art/Bon-bon-revectorization-255684464

Mrs. Cake: http://missgoldendragon.deviantart.com/

Derpy: http://www.deviantart.com/morelikethis/artists/291599295?view_mode=2#skins

Zecora: http://j5a4.deviantart.com/art/Zecora-2-561481846

Sweet Apple Acres: http://buzzybuzz.deviantart.com/art/Full-Apple-Acres-background-270742411

Mayor Mare: http://mrbarthalamul.deviantart.com/art/Excited-Mayor-Mare-Vector-359206054

Twilight: http://dashiesparkle.deviantart.com/art/Vector-87-Twilight-Sparkle-8-513435438

Wonderbolts Premiere

High in the tree, a caterpillar was slowly crawling onto a leaf. The caterpillar begins to munch onto the leaf, and after that, crawl right through it, leaving a bunch of bite marks and holes all around the leaf. Isn’t nature awesome? Yes it is! It is definitely awesome!

But… not as awesome as- WHOA! There goes Rainbow Dash flying by, making the caterpillar dizzy over the momentum. Rainbow Dash was flying as fast as she could all around White Tail Woods, causing some leaves to fall in the process, and how ironic because it’s not autumn yet, it’s only spring. Some of the animals cheered on for Rainbow, and some felt disturbed by her fast flying. After she was finished at White Tail Woods, she ended up in Froggy Bottom Bog, dodging the tongues of the frogs as they attempted to catch their lunch. Just then, her flying wakes up a cranky hydra, but that didn’t bother her. She just flew over the hydra, bopping their heads in the process.

When she was done there, she ended up in Ghasty Gorge. She bangs onto the Cliffside and rocks began to fall. Rainbow dodged every single one of them, including the quarry eels up ahead, which one of them didn’t just miss her; it hit its head on the other side of the gorge. When Rainbow was finished at the gorge, she returned to Ponyville, she flew back up to her house where Tank was keeping track of the time. Right when Rainbow comes back, he stops the watch.

“YES!” Rainbow cried out in excitement. “That was SO AWESOME! How did I do, Tank?” She checks the watch. “NICE! I flew through High Tail Woods, Froggy Bottom Bog, AND Ghasty Gorge in just 2 minutes and 10 seconds flat! That was MUCH better than my previous time – 2 minutes and 10.5 seconds!” Tank slowly blinks at Rainbow. “I still think I could do better though! Tomorrow is the big day!” She picks up Tank and spins him around with her. “Tomorrow is the Wonderbolt Trials! It’s the day I get to finally be an official Wonderbolt! All I have to do is pass a couple of lame tests, and I’m in!” She gives Tank a big hug.

“YEAH, RAINBOW DASH!” Bulk Biceps cried out. “WE’RE GOING TO ROCK THESE TESTS! WE’RE GOING TO ROCK THEM SO MUCH THAT… umm… umm… WE’LL ROCK THEM!”

“I know, Bulk Biceps!” Rainbow said excitedly. “I can’t believe we’re going to be Wonderbolts finally!”

“Speak for yourself.” Cloud Chaser said moody, but still smiled. “At least you have a 100% chance of actually being one. I’m not so sure about the rest of us.”

“Yeah, I mean you’ve proven yourself so many times.” Thunderlane said. “What have we done to show for it?”

“Don’t worry, you guys!” Rainbow said. “We’re all going to be Wonderbolts! We all came in together, and we’re all going out together. We’re going to OWN these trials!”

“OWN!” Bulk yelled in Thunderlane’s face.

“Ew! Say it, don’t spray it!” Thunderlane complained as he wiped his face. Bulk smiled in embarrassment.

The next over at the Wonderbolts Academy, the ponies Rainbow trained with at the academy: Bulk Biceps, Thunderlane, Cloud Chaser, Raindrops, Meadow Flower, and Starry Eyes all prepared themselves for the trials. All of the cadets were allowed to bring family over to watch. Rainbow invited Twilight, Pinkie, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, Starlight, Spike, and even the Cutie Mark Crusaders over to watch. Scootaloo was the most excited. Cloud Chaser invited Flitter to watch, Thunderlane invited his brother Rumble, Meadow Flower invited her recolored doubles – Helia and Blossomforth, and Raindrops invited Derpy, Rainbowshine, Merry May, and Parasol.

“Thanks for coming to watch, guys!” Rainbow said to her friends. “Seeing you around makes me feel a lot more confident!”

“Well of course! What else are friends for?” Applejack asked.

“Ooo, ooo, I know!” Pinkie raised her hoof excitedly. “Friends are for hugging with, and playing games with, and eating cake with, and saving Equestria with, and… umm… something else with the word ‘with’ in it...”

“I must say, Rainbow Dash, you’re taking this awfully well.” Rarity said. “Are you sure you’re not nervous?”

“Are you kidding? This is the moment I’ve been waiting for my whole… entire… life!” Rainbow said excitedly. “My dreams are finally becoming a reality! But then again, I am feeling… just a little bit nervous you might say.”

“Well no matter what happens, we’ll be right here, cheering for you.” Fluttershy said.

“And no matter what, I’m pretty sure they’ll accept you.” Twilight said.

“You’ve done so much for the Wonderbolts these past years!” Spike said.

“Yeah, it’s kind of odd though that you haven’t been a Wonderbolt sooner.” Starlight said.

“Yeah I’ve been wondering that too.” Rainbow thought. “I mean, I saved the Wonderbolts from certain doom after attempting to save a falling Rarity.”

“Shhh!” Rarity whispered. “What are you trying to do, Rainbow Dash? Ruin my reputation?” Everypony else laughed.

“And then I proved my leadership skills after that wicket tornado stunt while trying bring water up to Cloudsdale.” Rainbow added.

“You sure gave me a lot of confidence that day.” Fluttershy said.

“And then I finally got accepted into the academy, and proved to Spitfire that strength isn’t everything.” Rainbow added.

“Ah still wonder what happened to that other cadet, Lightning Dust.” Applejack said.

“Oh she got assigned to kitchen duty until she finally learns her lesson.” Rainbow said. “She isn’t going to be participating in these trials though since she’s fallen behind. Also don’t forget about the time I finally made it into the Wonderbolts Reserves, and then finally I sure showed off my wicket skills at the garden opening!”

“You wouldn’ve made it that far if we didn’t stop that fiend, Wind Rider.” Rarity reminded her.

“And now it has finally come to this!” Rainbow said. “But Starlight does have a point. I should’ve been a Wonderbolt already!”

“I agree with you 100%, Rainbow Dash!” Spitfire said as she flies down to her along with Soarin and Fleetfoot. “If it was up to us, we would’ve let you join us already.”

“Really?!” Rainbow asked excitedly.

“Of course!” Spitfire said.

“Absolutely!” Soarin agreed.

“Yep!” Fleetfoot agreed.

“But as you know, I may be captain of the Wonderbolts, but I don’t make the rules. General Fire Strike makes the rules.” Spitfire said.

“I guess he’s never seen me in action before.” Rainbow said.

“I guess not.” Spitfire said.

“So, Rainbow Dash, I hope you’re ready for the finals.” Soarin said.

“I was born ready, Soarin!” Rainbow said. “So are you guys going to be in charge of the trials?”

“Oh no.” Spitfire said. “We just came to wish you and the other cadets the best of luck. General Fire Strike is going to be in charge of the trials.” Just then, a big shadow flies by above them and then lands right in front of Rainbow and the Wonderbolts with a big stomp.

“TEN HUT, MAGGOTS!” General Fire Strike yelled as the cadets all stood up straight in full attention. Fire Strike starts walking back and forth and says, “Alright, cadets, by being here today you think you’re ready to become a Wonderbolt! Well, let me tell you twerps something – YOU DON’T LOOK LIKE WONDERBOLT MATERIAL TO ME!” He yells Starry’s face. “The only way you can prove you’re Wonderbolt material is if you can complete these trials. Try to impress me, and you may prove yourselves worthy of actually getting assigned to a squad.” Fire Strike takes out a clipboard and says, “First up is… Thunderlane!”

Thunderlane gets startled after he calls his name. “Oh lucky you, Thunderlane!” Rainbow said.

“Well, umm…” Thunderlane said nervously.

“Well? We haven’t gotten all day, dirtbag!” Fire Strike yelled. “You either prove you’re worthy now, or move your sorry flank back home and be a disgrace to all of us! Your choice!”

“C’mon, Thunderlane! You can do it!” Rainbow said to him with confidence.

“MAKE US PROUD, BRO!” Bulk yelled as he smacks Thunderlane’s back.

“We have complete confidence in you, Thunderlane!” Cloud Chaser said. Thunderlane won’t let his nerve get the best of him, so he just flew to the starting line and with confidence, he prepared for his trial.

“Nervous, cadet?” Fire Strike asked.

“No, sir!” Thunderlane yelled.

“Because if you fail this, you might bring disgrace to the Wonderbolts, your family, your friends, and maybe even the princesses!” Fire Strike yelled.

“The princesses?” Thunderlane asked curiously. Just then, over at the bleachers where everyone was watching, Princesses Celestia and Luna show up along with some pegasus guards to watch the trials. Thunderlane gasped when he saw them, and started to feel even more nervous. His friends down below were cheering for him, which made him feel a lot better.

“Are you prepared for your final trial, cadet?” Fire Strike asked.

Thunderlane put on his goggles and yelled, “Yes, sir!”

“Give me a good show, boy!” Fire Strike instructed him. He then turns over towards Spitfire and says to her, “Captain, prepare to start up the clock.”

“Yes, sir!” Spitfire yelled as she takes out her stopwatch.

“On your mark…” Fire Strike started as Thunderlane prepares himself. “…get set…” Sweat started to pour down Thunderlane’s head as he gave the course his complete concentration. “GO!” Thunderlane immediately began to fly through the course. Everyone cheered for him as he flew through hoops, around the trees, through stormy clouds, dodged arrows being shot by Wonderbolt archers, and even rescued dolly in distress. Once he was finished, he flew to the finish line immediately before Spitfire stops the watch.

“1 minute and 22 seconds.” Spitfire said.

As Thunderlane was catching his breath, he asked the general, “How did I do?”

“How did you do?” Fire Strike asked. “How did you do?!” He then started to laugh. Thunderlane felt awkward as he flew back to his team.

“Don’t worry, Thunderlane. I thought you did great!” Rainbow said.

“Thanks, Rainbow Dash!” Thunderlane said. “But that was nothing compared to what you’re going to do!”

“NEXT UP...” the general yelled. “…Cloud Chaser!”

“WOO! You go, Cloud Chaser! Woo hoo!” Flitter cheered from the crowd. Cloud Chaser got nervous as she flew up to the starting line.

“You can do this, Cloud Chaser!” Rainbow comforted her.

“I hope so, Rainbow Dash.” Cloud Chaser said.

Under the bleachers, there were two golden eyes glaring down in the shadow. One of them replaces the bottle of water next to Rainbow Dash with another one, and he or she starts to chuckle. One of them shushes the other and whispered, “We wait.” Just then a popcorn gets dropped by Spike under the bleachers. “Ow, my eye!” One of them whispered.

“Woops.” Spike said.

After Cloud Chaser was done, Starry went next, followed by Meadow Flower, Raindrops, and Bulk Biceps. Bulk was currently doing the course as Rainbow Dash awaited her turn. “Nervous, Rainbow Dash?” Spitfire asked.

“Waiting is the worst part!” Rainbow said.

“I know how you feel.” Spitfire said. “I was the same way when I first took my trials. But you really have nothing to worry about. I’ve seen you in action many times, and it would seem these trials might be just a walk in the park for you!”

“Yeah, Rainbow Dash. Don’t let that little nerve get in your way between you and destiny!” Fleetfoot advised her.

“Think of it this way, Rainbow Dash – I did terrible on my trials and I still got accepted in!” Soarin admitted.

“Yeah, he just got lucky.” Fleetfoot said. “We were just short on Wonderbolts during the time.”

“Are you short on Wonderbolts now?” Rainbow asked.

“Oh no way! We have more Wonderbolts now than we ever did these past 20 years.” Spitfire said. Rainbow gulped.

“WOO! GO SON, GO!” Mama Biceps yelled out.

“I AM AWESOME, MOM!” Bulk yelled as he flew through the finish line.

“YEAH!” Mama Biceps yelled.

“YEAH!” Bulk yelled.

“YEAH!” Pinkie yelled.

“Ok keep it down, deary. No need to be so loud.” Mama Biceps advised her.

“I thought we were training Wonderbolts here; are you trying to embarrass me?!” the general yelled at Bulk.

“NO, SIR!” Bulk yelled.

“Get out my sight!” the general ordered Bulk. Bulk flinched as he worryingly flew back to the bleachers.

“I don’t care what he says. You did awesome, Bulky!” Cloud Chaser comforted him.

“Yes you did! I’m confident that you’ll get a part in the squad yet!” Thunderlane said to Bulk.

Bulk started to tear up, and then he squeezes both Cloud Chaser and Thunderlane as he started to cry very loudly. “YOU GUYS ARE THE BEST!”

“Rainbow Dash! Get your sorry flank up here NOW!” the general ordered Rainbow.

“This is it, Rainbow Dash. Make us proud!” Spitfire persuaded her.

“Good luck to you, cadet!” Fleetfoot saluted.

“Ah, like she even needs it!” Soarin said as he winks at her. Rainbow smiled as she drinks her bottle of water down and flies up to the starting line. Once she got to the starting line, she stretches her legs, her wings, and her body.

“So… Rainbow Dash, huh?” the general asked.

“The one and only!” Rainbow said.

The general smiled and said, “My granddaughter told me all about you.”

Rainbow smiled along and asked, “Really?”

“Mhm!” the general said. “Spitfire says really good things about you, my dear, and I have to say, I am impressed!”

“Wow! Spitfire is your granddaughter?” Rainbow asked excitedly.

The general nods. “She has high hopes for you!”

“Well… was there any doubt?” Rainbow asked feeling boastful.

“Well don’t think this changes anything, cadet!” the general yells angrily. “You’re still a maggot like the rest of them! Now quit being full of yourself AND GET YOUR FLANK TO GEAR!”

“Uhh, YES, SIR!” Rainbow yelled.

“ON YOUR MARK…” The general starts as Rainbow readies herself. “…get set… GO!” Spitfire starts the stopwatch as Rainbow quickly starts up the course, starting with the hoops. As Rainbow was going through the hoops, she started to feel a little nauseous, but it didn’t stop her. She started to mess up when she got to the trees though. Rainbow’s friends, cadet squad, and the Wonderbolts were all getting a little worried. The general just glared up at her as he writes notes down on a clipboard. Spitfire started to feel very nervous for her.

“What is going on with her, Captain?” Soarin asked.

“I don’t know.” Spitfire said. Rainbow was really feeling nauseous but she did fairly well for the rest of the course, except for the archery, and she cut it pretty close on rescuing the dolly.

Afterwards, Rainbow Dash finally flew to the finish line as Spitfire stopped the stopwatch and said, “2 minutes and 44 seconds.”

Rainbow chuckles embarrassingly at the general as she tried to hold back her breakfast. The general just glares at his clipboard while taking final notes. “That will be all, cadet.” The general said. Rainbow felt very nervous. She felt pretty upset as she flew back down to her friends.

“Wow, Rainbow Dash!” Cloud Chaser tried to comfort Rainbow. “You did… umm… something! That was better than what… umm… Bulk here would’ve done!”

“HEY!” Bulk yelled feeling offended.

“I did terrible! That’s what I did!” Rainbow said upsettingly.

“You did fine, Rainbow Dash. I couldn’t have done better myself!” Fluttershy said.

“We should totally throw a party in your success!” Pinkie said excitedly.

“Success? What success? That was the worst I’ve ever done!” Rainbow said. “Why did I feel sick all the sudden?”

“Did your nerves get the best of you?” Twilight asked.

“I don’t think so.” Rainbow said.

“Look even though you did get a little woozy up there and that it slowed you down, you did do a pretty decent job. No need to doubt yourself.” Twilight said.

“But they expected better of me! Let’s face it. I’m not going to be an actual Wonderbolt. I just wanna go home.” Rainbow started to fly away in defeat as all of her friends, the other cadets, even Spitfire and the others, and even the princesses all felt bad for her. Starlight felt pretty suspicious, so she took the bottle of water Rainbow drank.

“Hmm.” Starlight thought.

“What’s wrong, Starlight?” Twilight asked.

“How could have Rainbow Dash all the sudden get sick?” Starlight asked. “It isn’t like her to have her nerves get the best of her.”

Rainbow Dash returned home and eased her sorrow on her bed, while Tank kept her company. Rainbow gave Tank a hug and said, “Oh Tank, is it true? Could I have been so nervous that I just messed up in the last minute? I guess it was foolish of me to think I’d get that far.” Tank cuddles against Rainbow’s face and Rainbow smiles a little bit. “I know, Tank. I shouldn’t give up. But… the odds are pretty much against me, buddy.” Just then, the doorbell rings. Rainbow groans and says, “Can you get that, Tank? I’m not really feeling up to it.” Tank nods as he begins to walk to the door. The doorbell just kept on ringing as Tank reaches an inch forward. Rainbow couldn’t take it anymore so she angrily flew over to the door and opened it. She then yelled, “WHAT?! Can’t you see I’m drowning in- oh.” At the door, it was Spitfire who looked pretty surprised after she said that.

“Oh my gosh!” Rainbow said worryingly as she stood up straight and saluted. “I am so sorry, Captain!”

“As you were, Rainbow Dash.” Spitfire said. “Mind if I come in?”

“Not at all!” Rainbow said as she moved out of the way and Spitfire flies in. Spitfire takes a seat on Rainbow’s sofa as Rainbow asked, “Would you like me to bring you a beverage?”

“No thanks.” Spitfire said. “I’m only going to be here for a- and you just brought me a beverage.”

“It’s grape juice!” Rainbow said with a glass on her hooves. “I know it’s your favorite.”

“Well, never look a gift horse in the mouth I guess. No pun intended.” Spitfire said as she takes the juice and sips it. “Anyways, I want to speak to you.”

“I know I didn’t pass, so no need to bring out the bad news.” Rainbow said upsettingly.

“Well, actually-“ Spitfire was about to say.

“Because even though I did the best I could, I didn’t push myself to the limit.” Rainbow said.

“Rainbow Dash!” Spitfire tried to get her attention.

“You don’t need to say it, Captain. If you’re going to take me out of the Wonderbolts now, just do it! I don’t need the stress of you telling me it!” Rainbow cried.

“RAINBOW DASH!” Spitfire yelled at the top of her lung. Rainbow immediately stopped talking and got her full attention. Spitfire then started to laugh. Rainbow felt confused.

“What’s so funny?” she asked.

“Corporal Dash, you’re overreacting!” Spitfire said. “You’ve already proven yourself to be Wonderbolt material so many times!”

“I know I have, but I did terrible in the trials, and… wait… did you just call me corporal?” Rainbow asked.

“I didn’t call you private, did I?” Rainbow asked.

“Wait… does that mean…” Rainbow started.

Spitfire shows Rainbow Dash her Wonderbolts certificate with a blue ribbon on it stating that she has passed her trials and is now a corporal of the Wonderbolts. Rainbow smiled real big as her eyes grew. She immediately takes the certificate and flies around yelling, “OH MY GOSH! OH MY GOSH! OH MY GOSH! OH MY GOSH! OH MY GOSH!”

“Heh! Wish I had a bit every time you said that!” Spitfire chuckled.

“THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!” Rainbow cried out in excitement as she hugged Spitfire. “This is a dream come true! I am officially a Wonderbolt! WOO HOO!” As she cried out ‘woo hoo’ she squeezed Spitfire a little too tight. Rainbow noticed so she released her. “Oh, heh, sorry Captain.”

“No- ACK! It’s ok.” Spitfire said as she was adjusting her back. “I was the exact same way when I joined the Wonderbolts. You pretty much remind me of myself.”

So after a while later, Rainbow Dash and Spitfire returned to the academy for the graduation ceremony. All of the cadets’ friends all watched as the cadets all got earned their medals. Each of the cadets were wearing the old style traditional Wonderbolt crew uniforms as they earned their medals. General Fire Strike pins the medals on each of their uniforms and he goes up to the column for his speech.

“Fillies and gentlecolts, we are gathered here today to honor Private Starry Eyes, Private First Class Meadow Flower, Corporal Thunderlane, Private Bulk Biceps, Private Cloud Chaser, Lance-Corporal Raindrops, and Corporal Rainbow Dash and their accomplishment throughout the Wonderbolts Academy. I now say, with a teardrop in my eye, that I am proud to call them Wonderbolts!” Everypony in the audience cheered for them, especially Scootaloo for Rainbow Dash. Everypony was happy. Well, almost everypony. Back stage, the duo of golden eyed ponies glared over at Rainbow.

After the graduation ceremony, the former cadets were talking to their friends, and getting congratulated on a job well done. Rainbow for instance was talking to her friends. After getting hugged by Scootaloo, Twilight says, “Well, Rainbow Dash, you did it! You are now an official Wonderbolt!”

“I know! I can hardly believe it!” Rainbow said excitedly.

“Woo hoo!” Pinkie cried out in excitement. “Colonel Rainbow Dash reporting for duty!”

“Um, it’s corporal, Pinkie, not colonel.” Rainbow corrected her. “I’m… not quite there yet.”

“Meh, to-may-to, to-mah-to.” Pinkie said.

“So ah guess with you a Wonderbolt now, you’re goin’ to be too busy to handle the weather in Ponyville now, huh?” Applejack asked.

“Well only when I’m on tour.” Rainbow said. “But I’m still going to be living in Ponyville and help my friends out in their time of need.”

“Well we’re all proud of you, Rainbow Dash!” Fluttershy said.

“And mind if I say that is a fabulous outfit you have!” Rarity said as she observed her uniform.

“Well, it is a Wonderbolts tradition to wear the old uniforms when receiving medals.” Rainbow said.

“Say, didn’t you learn that on your Wonderbolts Reserve test?” Twilight asked with a smirk.

“I guess I did!” Rainbow said. “So anyways, I’m going to be going on tour soon, if you girls want to watch.” The Mane Six all accepted.

“Hey, Rainbow Dash! Come over here!” Spitfire summoned her.

“Well, I can’t keep the captain waiting. I’ll see you all in my first show you hear?” Rainbow asked. She then goes over to Scootaloo and gives her a noogie. “And I definitely want to see you there, squirt!” Afterwards, Rainbow flies over to Spitfire, Soarin, and Fleetfoot. “You summoned me, Captain?”

“Yes I did. I want to tell you what you’re going to be doing.” Spitfire said.

“I know! I can’t wait to finally fly beside you three as an official Wonderbolt!” Rainbow said excitedly.

“Uhh, actually, Rainbow Dash… you… you’re not going to be flying with us on the tour.” Soarin said.

“Wait, what do you mean?” Rainbow asked.

“Well, you see, we’re not the ones going on the tour.” Fleetfoot said. “You and the other graduates are.”

“Well that sounds ok, but I was really excited to flying alongside you.” Rainbow said.

“But Rainbow Dash, don’t you see? This is going to be YOUR squadron. You’re going to be the leader of this squadron, and it is up to you to make sure they’re ready.” Spitfire said. “Didn’t you tell me it was your dream to show off your skills to a stadium full of ponies?”

“Well, yes, but… the dream had you in it.” Rainbow said.

“Sorry, Rainbow Dash, but we want to make sure all of you are ready.” Spitfire said. “I’m giving you this mission because I know you’re qualified enough for it. Do I make myself clear, Corporal Dash?”

Rainbow sighs and says, “Yes, Captain.”

“Don’t worry, Rainbow Dash.” Soarin said. “You’ll have your chance to fly alongside us as an official Wonderbolt, but just be patient and the time will come.” Rainbow Dash nods in agreement and then she flies off to join her squad.

“Do you think Rainbow Dash is ready to be the leader of her own squad, Spitfire?” Fleetfoot asked.

“I know she is.” Spitfire said. “She is, after all, my star pupil. She’s the best of the best, and that’s what the Wonderbolts need. She’ll be the one to whip those shinnies into shape.”

The next day came, and Rainbow Dash and her team travelled over to the Manehattan stadium for their first show. In the dressing room, Rainbow, Cloud Chaser, Raindrops, and Meadow were putting on their Wonderbolt jumpsuits for the first time. Once Cloud Chaser puts on her jumpsuit, she poses in the mirror and says, “Wow! This is like a dream come true! I’ve always dreamed to wear one of these!”

“So do I!” Rainbow said as she zipped up her jumpsuit and checked herself out in the mirror. “I’ve always dreamed about wearing this thing, but I never thought it would become a reality!” She then scratches herself.

“I think they gave me a too big of a size.” Raindrops said as she checks herself out seeing her uniform sag. Just then, there was a knock on the dressing room door. Raindrops walks over to the door and opens it, and Bulk Biceps was standing outside with a very tight Wonderbolt outfit.

“I THINK OUR UNIFORMS GOT MIXED UP!” Bulk yelled.

Out in the stadium, each of Rainbow Dash’s friends were about to watch the show. Since it’s Manehattan, even Babs and Coco were there. The audience was cheering as the announcer calls out, “Before we begin our match, let us rise for the Equestria National Anthem song, and the Wonderbolts fly-by. Fillies and gentlecolts, please stomp your hooves for the Topaz Twins!”

Two pink female earth ponies with darker pink robes, but with different hairstyles walked up to the microphone as they both started to sing the anthem. “Equestria – the land I love. The land of harmony…”

Meanwhile backstage, Rainbow and her team were quickly finishing getting ready. “Ma’am! The anthem has started!” Starry informed her.

“Alright team, we know the drill! Everypony in position now!” Rainbow ordered her team. Her team immediately aligns themselves in two separate lines. “WINGS… UP!” Rainbow yelled as her teams all lift their wings. “Get in position…” Rainbow orders her team as she scratches herself. “Is everypony ready?”

“YES MA’AM!” her team yelled.

“Ok…” Rainbow said as she continues to scratch herself. “On my mark, we fly through the stadium and we just do a few spins and tricks, just like we practiced. That should be easy for a first show, am I right ‘bolts? Just follow my lead.”

“YES MA’AM!” her team yelled.

“READY… AND… FLY!” Rainbow ordered. Rainbow and her team immediately took off and they began to fly over the stadium as the anthem was ending. Rainbow’s friends in the audience cheered as her team starts flying by over the stadium. Each of Rainbow’s team followed Rainbow’s maneuvers, following her every move; all her spins, twists, and even her scratches. Nopony seemed to notice her scratching though, nopony except Starlight and Twilight.

“Do you see what I see, Twilight?” Starlight asked her.

“I believe I do.” Twilight said. “That doesn’t look like any maneuvers I’m familiar with, except for when she’s itchy.”

“Why is she so itchy though?” Starlight asked.

Backstage, the duo of ponies in the shadows chuckled mischievously as Rainbow’s itching became worse and worse. Some of Rainbow’s team was feeling confused to why she was scratching herself so much, but they thought it was all part of the show and they decided to follow along. It didn’t seem to affect the crowd as they continued to cheer. When Rainbow’s team returned to backstage, her team cheered in excitement, but Rainbow herself immediately started removing her jumpsuit.

“We were AWESOME weren’t we?” Cloud Chaser asked excitedly.

“We sure were!” Meadow said. “I can’t believe we actually pulled that off!”

“Weren’t we great, Corporal Dash?” Cloud Chaser asked. Rainbow didn’t respond. She just continued to remove her jumpsuit.

“Uh, Corporal Dash? Are you ok?” Thunderlane asked. Once Rainbow removed her jumpsuit, her entire body was covered in a red rash. Rainbow’s group suddenly gasped at the sight of her body, and Bulk Biceps faints.

“Corporal Dash, what happened to you?” Meadow asked.

“What do you think is wrong with me?!” Rainbow yelled sarcastically as she continued to scratch herself with both her hooves and some of the objects backstage.

“Please forgive me, Corporal.” Meadow begged.

“Do you require any assistance, ma’am?” Thunderlane asked.

“Something to get rid of this itch would be nice!” Rainbow yelled.

“Somepony get her apple cider vinegar.” Thunderlane instructed his team. Raindrops, Starry, and Meadow all flew off to find some.

“Yes please! I am so thirsty!” Rainbow yelled.

“It’s to stop the itch, Corporal Dash.” Thunderlane corrected her.

“Oh.” Rainbow said as she continued scratching.

As Rainbow’s friends were all leaving the stadium, Rarity says to Coco, “Coco, thank you so much again for the tickets. It probably meant a lot to Rainbow Dash that we saw her.”

“Well my contact here always loves to help those who help him.” Coco said just as she bumps into a pony wearing a jumpsuit and a wrestling mask. The pony drops a box of some sort, and Coco also drops her box of bon bons that she ate during the wrestling.

“Hey! Watch where you’re going!” the golden-eyed wrestler yelled.

“Oh please excuse me, madam.” Coco said.

“Get some glasses or something!” the wrestler complained as she picked up one of the boxes and marches away.

“Wow, rude!” Rarity complained.

“It’s what you can expect from ponies here in Manehattan.” Coco said.

As Spike was eating his peanuts, he checks out the box Coco had on her hooves. “Itching powder?”

“Wait what?” Coco asked as she looks at the box she was carrying. “Oh, I must’ve accidently switched boxes with that other pony.”

“Wait let me see that.” Twilight requested as Coco gives her the box of itching powder. “Wait a second. Wasn’t Rainbow Dash scratching herself throughout the whole show?”

“She was.” Starlight said.

The next day came, and Rainbow’s team was about to start the next part of their tour in Fillydelphia’s stadium, where a hoof race was about to be performed. A lot of different ponies were placing their bets for their favorite racers. All of Rainbow’s friends were there in the audience, waiting for Rainbow and her team to perform.

Twilight inhales, then exhales, and says, “Ah! The sweet smell of Fillydelphia! All the historical landmarks around here! It impresses me!”

“I must say, I do enjoy the fabulous décor around here too.” Rarity said.

“I just enjoy the bakery shops they have here!” Pinkie said as she takes a bite from an éclair. Once she takes the bite, some of the cream inside squirts out right onto Rarity’s eye.

“Ew!” she said.

“Oh relax, Rarity. It matches your coat.” Applejack informed her.

“Yeah! You don’t look any different, Rarity! Even though you do look somewhat like a cyclopes!” Pinkie said.

Rainbow stretches herself out as her team prepares themselves.

“You ready, Corporal Dash?” Thunderlane asked.

“Don’t worry about me, Thunderlane. I should be fine now.” Rainbow said. “I got my suit washed out so there shouldn’t be anything that would make me itch this time. I can’t believe I’ve been overworking myself so much that I forget to wash my suit.”

“Don’t worry, Corporal.” Thunderlane said. “We need to do those training sessions before the big show. We all forget things once in a while.”

“Yeah, I know.” Rainbow nodded. “I’m just hoping this isn’t too much for me.” Rainbow picks up her bottle of water and takes a drink before the big show. “Mmm! This water tastes really good! I should get more of these.”

“Fillies and gentlecolts,” the announcer started, “please rise for the Equestria National Anthem sung by the scouts of Camp Friendship.”

“That’s our que. You all know the drill.” Rainbow said to her team as she puts on her goggles. Her team does so too.

As the Camp Friendship scouts were concluding the Equestria Anthem, “They say true friendship never ends, Equestria my hooooome!”, Rainbow and her team flies by and the crowd cheers on for them. As everything was going well so far for them, things started to go against Rainbow as she started to fly out of proportion. Her eyes kinda blurred as she flew out of line and started flying towards the stands. The ponies gasped as she flew in lightning speed towards them, but then she immediately flies up into the air and misses them.

“WHOA!” Rainbow gasped. “That was a close call!”

“A little too close. Seriously, are you ok?” Thunderlane asked as he flew along side her.

“I’m fine, Thunderlane!” Rainbow said with an attitude as she continued flying, still partially blind. When she gets across the stadium with her team, she accidently crashes into the pole with the loud speakers on it, and then after she rubs her head in pain and she flies backstage. When she finally lands, she grabs a towel, soaks it, and rubs her face with it.

“Uh, permission to speak, ma’am?” Cloud Chaser asked.

“What is it, Cloud Chaser?” Rainbow asked while facing the wall. “Seriously, I’m ok if you all just call me Rainbow Dash. I don’t wish to be too superior to you.”

“Well… first off I’m right here.” Cloud Chaser informed her.

“Yeah I see you there. Don’t worry.” Rainbow said to a cactus.

Cloud Chaser and Meadow both looked at eachother awkwardly, then Meadow said, “Umm… Rainbow Dash, we’re worried about you. Perhaps you’re overworking yourself.”

“Nah, I’m cool, I’m cool!” Rainbow said. “There is nothing wrong with m- OW!” She pats the cactus on the shoulder.

“Are you tired?” Meadow asked.

“What is your major malfunction, ‘bolt? I’m fine! Let’s just get to the next tour location! C’mon, double-time it team! Move! Move! Move!” Rainbow ordered. Her team felt worried for her, but they knew they couldn’t say anything until they knew how to persuade her, so they just went with it for the time being.

As the tour went on, a cowbell starts play, and after some taps on the cowbell, an electric guitar strung. Oh would you listen to that! Rainbow Dash is about to sing! She’s already not flying well, isn’t that going to ruin her concentration some more? So as the tour went on to Vanhoover, Rainbow began to sing. “Back when I was a filly I’ve always had a dream to be high!” The guitar strings string as Rainbow practices with her team at the stadium without any problems on her end. “Now I’m dreaming the dream and I feel my future is bright!” Rainbow was timing herself and her team on speed flights making sure everything was in order for her. “C’mon team! It’s time to get good! Time to get to the top! Oh yeah!” Rainbow suddenly smacks Raindrop’s wings. “Get those wings straight, ‘Bolt!” She then smacks one of Bulk’s flabby muscles. “Make sure your muscles do not flop!”

Rainbow’s team all start doing wing-ups. “Don’t you ladies know that the Wonderbolts are supposed to be the best?” When she said ‘the best’, she tries to hold down Starry to make wing-ups harder for him. “We need to push it! We need to push over the limit!” Rainbow sang as she played the cowbell while sitting on top of Cloud Chaser who was lifting weights with her wings.

“Aren’t you supposed to be the one that needs to do this?” Thunderlane asked her. “You’re the one that’s been messing up.”

“Don’t talk like that to your commanding officer, Thunderlane! We all need to work on our moves!” Rainbow said. “Now drop and give me 50!” Thunderlane sighs as he starts doing wing-ups.

When the Vanhoover Youngster Olympics was about to begin, Rainbow cleans out her goggles with some mysterious spray on her dressing room table, and then she puts it on and rejoins with her team. When the show starts, she and her team begin to fly out, and she continues to sing. “No time to rest, no time to break, the crowd awaits our show!” Rainbow’s goggles suddenly begin to fog up instantly. “We practiced hard, we practiced swift, our strength has really grown.” Rainbow’s goggles fogged up so bad, that she decided to remove them. “No matter what weights us down, we cannot just throw in the towel.” With Rainbow’s goggles off, the wind began to dry up Rainbow’s eyes from the speed, causing her to be temporarily blinded by the lack of eye juice. “We can prove them all we know just what it takes to just… win the battle!” Rainbow was flying during the time she was blind, so she nearly crashed into the judge booth, but Bulk was able to get in the way and block her from them. That was when Rainbow sang angrily to Bulk, “Don’t you ladies know that we don’t ask for help in the middle of a show? We need to push it! We need to push over the limit!” Bulk then turns Rainbow around and tosses her as Rainbow flies over the stadium again and returns backstage. “We need to push it! We need to push over the limit!” The judges that Rainbow nearly crashed into all held up numbers on behalf of the performance. One held up a 6, and the other two held up 8s.

The next part of the tour was the Wonderbolts Derby in Canterlot. Rainbow and her team were getting prepared – just stretching out their legs and wings. “It’s all natural, it’s all from the heart, no added energy boosts acquired. No diseases, no sugar-rush or overeat, and a full night sleep’s required.” Rainbow immediately takes out a protein bar, opens it up, and eats it all in one bite from it. She then crumbles it up and throws it aside, but a garbage pony immediately shows up with a trash bin and the wrapper lands into the bin, and then he runs back off. “To be awesome, you must empty your mind of any angriness or stress!” When the flag is waved, Rainbow and her team immediately start flying, but while her team fly as fast as they could, Rainbow flies slowly and holds her stomach, thinking she was going to lose her lunch. “Remember to keep your eye on the task at hoof, but our tip-top priories are… helping out the ones in distress! Oh yeah!” Her team flies over to the finish line faster than the speed of a bullet (even Bulk has improved dramatically), but Rainbow was probably just as slow as Tank when she flew to the finish line.

When the Baltimare Monster Carriage Stunt Show was about to begin, Rainbow finds wing lotion on her dressing room table, so she decides to put it on before the show. When the show starts, she and her team begin to fly out, and she continues to sing. “If you want to prove you’re truly the best, all you need to do is believe! If you don’t, don’t give up, we know you can truly achieve!” This was about the time when Rainbow lost some of her feeling on her wings. They began to feel numb. “Make use for what you got, before you know it it’ll be gone.” She begins to lose her altitude. “But it won’t ever… come to that, so let’s just let bygones be a bygone!” Before Rainbow was able to crash into the firepit on the track, she spread her wings to the side and regained altitude without flapping them. Raindrops and Meadow flew up to Rainbow to help escort her backstage, and during the time, Rainbow sang angrily to them, “Don’t you ladies know that I ain’t giving up one bit! We need to push it! We need to push over the limit! That’s right we need to push it! We need to push over the limit!” Rainbow decided not to accept their help and just continue on with the show. Continue to entertain the fans. “You know it, we need to push it! We need to push over the limit! We really, really, really, really need to push it! We need to push over the limiiiiiiiiit! The limiiiiiiiiiiit!” The song ends right after Rainbow started to lose her altitude again and she starts to fall. She blacks out once she gets rescued by her team.

When Rainbow finally wakes up on the sofa in the dressing room, she had an ice pack on her head and moaned. “Are you ok, Rainbow Dash?” Raindrops asked.

“I’m fine.” Rainbow said as she sits up a bit. “How did I do?”

“It was pretty good, but it could’ve used a little more cowbell.” Starry said.

“I meant how did I do on the show?” Rainbow asked.

Rainbow’s team all looked at eachother. Thunderlane finally says, “I’m sorry, Corporal Dash, but… we think… we think this show might be a little too much for you.”

“No! I know I have been slacking a bit during the show, but I promise you, I will do better!” Rainbow said.

“Rainbow Dash?” Bulk asked softly. “There are times when you just need to give up.”

“It’s true.” Meadow said. “You’ve been pushing yourself too hard during these past few shows, and we think it’s best for you to return back to base.”

“NO!” Rainbow yelled as she sat up and threw the icepack on the floor. “NO, NO, NO! I will NOT go back to base! What would Captain Spitfire think if I just gave up now?! What would… what would the general think? I’ll be kicked out of the Wonderbolts! And it’ll be all YOUR fault! Some team you are!”

“Rainbow Dash, for all due respect, please calm down! You are not going to get kicked out!” Thunderlane comforted her. “I’ve heard the general say he’s got high hopes for you. He’ll understand if you need to rest for a while.”

“No! I… I can’t!” Rainbow said. “Look… I know it’s been a rough week for me. I’ve been spoiling everything for all of you, but just give me one more show. One final show! If I mess up that one, I promise I’ll just stop.”

Rainbow’s team all looked at eachother and they all nodded as the monster carriage show was playing in the background. “Ok, corporal. We’ll give you one more show.” Thunderlane said.

“Good! I knew I could count on you guys!” Rainbow said happily. “Don’t worry! I won’t let you guys down!” Just then, Rainbow said upsettingly while sipping a chocolate shake at a nearby diner with her friends, “I’m going to let them down. I’m going to let them all down.”

“Wait a minute, how did we all get here?” Pinkie asked as she looked around.

“Rainbow, I’m sure you’ll do fine.” Twilight informed her.

“I told you all, they’re going to take me back to base if I mess up again.” Rainbow said. “I’m going to get kicked out of the Wonderbolts for sure! Maybe… maybe it’s for the best. Perhaps I’m not ready to be a Wonderbolt after all.”

“NO!” Fluttershy said. “This is not the Rainbow Dash we know and love! The real Rainbow Dash would never give up!”

“Wait… that’s not the real Rainbow Dash?!” Pinkie freaked out. “MIRROR POND! CHANGELING! ANIMATION ERROR!”

“It was an expression, darling.” Rarity corrected her.

“Oh.” Pinkie said calmly as she continued to sip her drink.

“But think about it, Rainbow Dash.” Twilight informed her. “What if it’s not you?”

“What do you mean, Twilight?” Rainbow asked.

“I think it might help if Starlight explained it to you. Starlight?” Twilight asked.

“Are you sure, Twilight? You’re better at explaining things than I.” Starlight said.

“I insist.” Twilight said.

“Ok then.” Starlight said as she turned to Rainbow. “Twilight and I have been researching some strange evidence of some of the things you’ve been using before your shows.”

“Yeah, and?” Rainbow asked.

“We think it’s not you doing any of that.” Starlight said. “You haven’t been tired, or crashing over natural causes.”

“Well? Spit it out then, Starlight!” Rainbow instructed her.

“Well if you’re going to talk to me like that, I might not.” Starlight complained.

“No! Ok, I’m sorry.” Rainbow said. “Please… tell me what might be the problem?”

“We think it’s sabotage.” Starlight said as the rest of Rainbow’s friends all gasped.

“BRAIN FREEZE!” Pinkie cried.

Rainbow started laughing. “You’re joking right? Who would want to sabotage me? There is nopony out there in Equestria that has a grudge on me!”

“You sure about that?” Starlight asked.

“I mean yeah I did make ponies angry in the past, but it’s nothing worth them ruining me over!” Rainbow said.

“Rainbow, I really think somepony’s out there to ruin your chances of staying in the Wonderbolts.” Starlight said. “Ever since your Wonderbolts trial somepony has been trying to make sure you don’t get accepted.”

“That’s crazy! My team or I would’ve known if something like that happened!” Rainbow said.

“I know it’s hard to believe, Rainbow, but I’m pretty sure she’s right.” Twilight said.

“Well I don’t believe it.” Rainbow said.

“Well if you don’t believe it, we’ll just have to prove it to you.” Starlight said.

“How?” Rainbow asked.

“Don’t drink any energy drinks, don’t eat anything, don’t even spray yourself with anything.” Starlight informed her. “Don’t touch anything before your show. Just put your Wonderbolt suit in the laundry, and then wear it immediately when it’s clean. That includes your goggles. After that, just wait for your show, and don’t touch anything.”

“But I always need at least a bottle of water before the show.” Rainbow said.

“We’ll supply you with your water, but I insist that you don’t touch anything, and don’t accept anything from anyone! Even from your own team.” Starlight instructed her. Rainbow was feeling a bit confused, but she knew she had to listen to her. Rainbow knew something was up, and she couldn’t believe that those disasters she nearly caused were caused by her on purpose.

The next day came, and the final Wonderbolt show in their tour was about to begin – the Trottingham Gala, which is like the Grand Galloping Gala, but it takes place down in Southern Equestria, in Trottingham, the part of Equestria that isn’t on the map. Several towns like Mustainga, Hoofington, Mareami, Las Haygus, and Saddle Arriba is even nearby. When the gala started, Rainbow and her team were currently just enjoying the gala. Her friends were there too, and eventually Princesses Celestia and Luna came. When the princesses came, Rainbow started to become nervous, but took deep breaths.

“Ok.” She said. “The princesses are here. This is when we’ll really step up our game.”

“Tell yourself that, Corporal.” Starry teased. Rainbow glares at him. “Hey, it’s true!”

“But Rainbow Dash, isn’t it a little too early for you to have your suit on?” Cloud Chaser asked.

“Oh, well… I just thought it would save the time from the dressing room to just have the suit on and be ready.” Rainbow said.

“Makes sense to me.” Thunderlane agreed. “Would you like me to get you some punch?”

“NO!” Rainbow yelled which startled her team a bit. “I mean, no, thank you, Thunderlane. But I’m good. I’ll have the punch when we’re done with our show.”

“Good thinking! Like you need the extra sugar.” Spitfire said.

“SPITFIRE?!” Rainbow yelled startlingly.

“Surprised?” Spitfire asked.

“Not just her though. All of us!” Soarin said.

“We wanted to see you and your team in action, Rainbow Dash.” Fleetfoot said.

“Yeah, there were a lot of ponies that said they enjoyed your show this past week.” Misty Fly said.

“There were?” Rainbow asked.

“Yeah, they said how awesome you were when they thought you were about to crash but you got saved in the last minute – it really caused some suspense!” Misty Fly said.

“Wow, I… thanks… I guess.” Rainbow said with an embarrassing smile. “Yeah it was pretty awesome, wasn’t it?”

“Yep! It sure was, and grandfather thought that too.” Spitfire said.

“G-grandfather?” Rainbow asked nervously.

“Yep! He’s right over there talking to Celestia and Luna.” Spitfire pointed to where the general was, making the princesses laugh.

“H-he’s here too?” Rainbow asked nervously.

“Yeah, we all wanted to see you and your team in action.” Spitfire said.

“We heard you did a really good job training them up.” Soarin said.

“They’ve certainly improved!” Fleetfoot said.

“Heh, thanks guys!” Rainbow said. “I sure can’t wait for the next show!”

Over in the shadows, a pony hoof places a glass of punch on the table nearby, and whoever placed the punch there also placed a piece of paper there that reads ‘To Rainbow Dash. From, Starlight Glimmer’. Bulk Biceps walks up to the glass of the paper and yells out, “HEY RAINBOW DASH! STARLIGHT GLIMMER LEFT YOU A GLASS OF PUNCH HERE!”

“Really now?” Rainbow asked as she walked over to the glass. “Well how nice of her!” She said as she takes the glass. “Thanks for letting me know, Bulk! I should tell Starlight how much of a good friend she is!”

“SHE REALLY IS!” Bulk yelled excitedly as Rainbow flies off to look for her. He then looks down upsettingly and said to himself, “Starlight never gave me anything.”

When Rainbow walked up to Starlight, she thanked her and then she gave her a hug. Whoever left the punch on the table chuckled evilly and said, “If this won’t get her kicked out of the Wonderbolts, I don’t know what would.”

After some time went by, Rainbow and her team got ready for their final show in the tour. Some ponies blew on their trumpets as the everypony took their seats. Rainbow’s friends, the princesses, the other Wonderbolts, and even the general took their seats. Rainbow, and even her team felt a bit nervous. Rainbow was a bit curious as well because Spitfire wasn’t amongst the Wonderbolts in the audience. “Where’s Captain Spitfire?” Rainbow asked.

“Don’t worry about her. Our show is about to begin.” Thunderlane said. “We cannot mess this up! Are you feeling alright today, Corporal?”

“I’m feeling awesome!” Rainbow said excitedly. “Let’s do this!”

“Fillies and gentlecolts,” the announcer started, “the Trottingham Gala proudly presents… the Flight of the Wonderbolts!” Rainbow took a deep breath and then she led her team out in the open, and everypony watched amazingly as they performed.

“So far, so good.” Rainbow said to herself as she continued. Everypony was so impressed on the unique moves Rainbow taught her team.

“Well I’ll be.” The general commented.

As Rainbow was openly doing well on the show, the saboteurs have noticed as well. “What’s going on?” One of them asked. “She’s not messing up.”

“Switch to plan B.” The other one whispered as they split up.

After the show ends, Rainbow removes her goggles and the mask part of her Wonderbolts suit, and she shakes her head, letting loose her mane. During which, Soarin flew up to her worryingly.

“Rainbow Dash!” Soarin called out as she ran over to her.

“Oh hey, Soarin!” Rainbow said excitedly. “Did you enjoy the show?”

“Yeah you were really good, but we have a problem.” Soarin said.

“What? You and me?” Rainbow asked.

“No, Spitfire.” Soarin said. “She went missing.”

“I knew it was weird that she didn’t show up for the show.” Rainbow thought.

“The others are looking for her, but I was talking to your friend Starlight Glimmer.” Soarin said. “She said somepony has been trying to sabotage you, and is now moving to Plan B.”

“Plan B?” Rainbow asked. Just then she realized what Soarin meant. “Oh no!” Rainbow immediately flies off and checks around the convention center for Spitfire. She looks all around for her, but couldn’t find a trace. Some of the gala ponies were a bit startled by her, but they just continued doing what they were doing. Just then, Rainbow hears a ‘HELP’ coming from a half-opened door nearby. So Rainbow quickly flies through the door and down the stairs into the basement. As Spitfire kept on crying out for help, Rainbow flew through one of the store rooms in the basement and saw her tied up. “Captain Spitfire! What happened?!”

“Rainbow Dash, no! It’s a trap!” Spitfire yelled just as the door shuts behind Rainbow.

“HEY!” Rainbow yelled as she immediately turned around. “Who are you?! Why are you doing this?!”

“Revenge, Rainbow Dash.” The saboteur said as she finally reveals herself. “Just a little something I like to call – REVENGE!”

“LIGHTNING DUST?!” Rainbow gasped.

“You didn’t think anypony had a grudge on you?” Lightning Dust asked. “Well you thought wrong!”

“Wha-why are you doing this?” Rainbow asked. “I did NOTHING to you!”

“Did you?” Lightning asked. “Don’t you remember our last meeting? I had my rank stripped by Spitfire! I was living the dream! We made a very good unstoppable team, but you reported me to her, and she never thought I could be Wonderbolt material! So I got expelled from the academy! You ruined my dream, Rainbow Dash! Ever since then, I swore to do the same to you!”

“Wait, you got kicked out?” Rainbow asked. “I thought you got kitchen duty?”

“Kitchen duty? Who told you that?” Lightning asked.

Just then, Rainbow gets a flashback of her and Soarin racing through the academy tracks. “Well, I gotta hand to you, Rainbow Dash! You are an unstoppable flyer!”

“Thanks, Soarin!” Rainbow said. “I know I’m pretty awesome! Hey, by the way, did Spitfire tell you what happened to Lightning Dust?”

“Oh I dunno, she probably got kitchen duty or something.” Soarin said.

Just then, Rainbow’s flashback ends with Rainbow not feeling amused. “Oh… right.”

“Yeah, see what I mean?” Lightning asked. “Your jealousy of not being lead pony got the best of you; and now… I’m no longer a Wonderbolt! And it’s ALL YOUR FAULT!”

“But Lightning Dust! Rainbow never tried to get you kicked out!” Spitfire said. “Rainbow nearly returned her badge and left the academy.”

“QUIET! Once I’m done with Rainbow Dash, you’re next!” Lightning yelled. “Now then, Rainbow Dash. We have a deal for you. If you want your captain back unharmed, you both will turn in your suits and badges, and retire from the Wonderbolts. If you think I’m lying, I’m not. I have nothing against your personal lives outside the Wonderbolts, but a pony’s gotta do what a pony’s gotta do.”

“Don’t listen to her, Dash!” Spitfire instructed her.

“Wait a minute, Lightning. Did you say… we?” Rainbow asked.

“Well I tried to get my revenge on you once before using my grandfather, who greatly obligated.” Lightning pointed. A light lit the other side of the room, and right next to a lever, it was another former Wonderbolt.

“WIND RIDER?!” Rainbow yelled.

“Who else would it be?” Wind Rider asked. “After you had my granddaughter kicked out, I had to return to the Wonderbolts to get to you! Now you got us BOTH kicked out! Now you’re going to pay!”

“I didn’t kick either of you out!” Rainbow yelled. “It was Spitfire! I mean… not that I blame her, but I had no right to kick you out!” Spitfire glares at her.

“That may be so, but you both led her to kick us out!” Wind Rider said.

“Uh, if I may?” Rainbow asked. “It was my friend Rarity that got you caught, Wind Rider.”

“Wow, way to sell out your friend.” Spitfire said sarcastically.

“Woops.” Rainbow said as she chuckled embarrassingly.

“Well whatever! Rainbow Dash is our target!” Wind Rider said. “You know what this lever does?”

“Gets you to shush your mouth?” Rainbow teased. Another light comes on, and on top of Spitfire was a piano hanging on a rope. Rainbow and Spitfire both gasped.

“Wow. How did you get that heavy piano up there?” Spitfire asked.

“I’m sure it’s self-explanatory, Dash.” Lightning said. “But if not, if you don’t do what we say, Spitfire gets crushed!”

“Are you kidding?!” Rainbow yelled. “I don’t think you’d really want to physically harm a pony!” Wind Rider then immediately pulls the lever down and the piano begins to fall. Spitfire flinched as it nearly crushes her, but it stops three-fourths down. Wind immediately pulls the lever back up and the piano starts rising back into place. Rainbow then freaked out and said, “I should’ve kept my big mouth shut! I should’ve kept my big mouth shut! I should’ve kept my big mouth shut!”

“I know, Dash! You should’ve kept your big mouth shut!” Spitfire complained.

“Don’t make me leave you here, Captain.” Rainbow teased.

“So what’s it gonna be, Dash?” Lightning asked.

“Your friend, or your career?” Wind Rider asked.

Rainbow was furious, but she needed to do what she needed to do. She looked over at Spitfire and she said, “Don’t do it, Rainbow Dash! Don’t worry about me! You and the Wonderbolts have a future!”

“I will not leave you here, Captain!” Rainbow said.

“That is an ORDER, ‘BOLT!” Spitfire yelled.

“For all do respect, Captain, I must decline your order.” Rainbow said. “You’re one of my idols, Spitfire, and you’re also one of my friends. If sacrificing my career means saving your life, then so be it.”

“A wise choice, Rainbow Dash.” Wind Rider said. “A wise choice indeed.” Rainbow removes her badge, and places it on the ground.

“You’re throwing away your life, Dash!” Spitfire reminded her.

“It’s a Wonderbolt’s number one priority for other pony’s safety, and that is going to be my final duty as Wonderbolt.” Rainbow said. Spitfire smiles at her.

Lightning Dust picks up Rainbow’s badge and observes it. “Yes… this will definitely do nicely for the general!”

“The general?” Rainbow asked.

“Now I’m afraid this is where we disembark.” Wind Rider said. “Goodbye, Captain Spitfire!”

“Wait, NO!” Rainbow cried as she was about to fly to Spitfire and rescue her, but Lightning Dust flies up to Rainbow and tackles her down. The piano was nearing down to crush Spitfire, but out of the blue, Spitfire gets rescued by a flash.

“Wait, what?” Lightning asked as she looked back and saw Spitfire got rescued by Bulk Biceps.

“PERMISSION TO RESCUE YOU, CAPTAIN!” Bulk yelled and saluted.

Just then, the rest of Rainbow’s team flew into the room and they capture Lightning Dust and Wind Rider, while Thunderlane flies over to Rainbow and helps her up. “Are you alright, Corporal?”

“Much better now.” Rainbow smiled. Bulk unties Spitfire. Spitfire then angrily walks over to Wind Rider and Lightning Dust.

“She took my record, she got my granddaughter kicked out! I have a good reason for this!” Wind Rider said.

“Maybe.” Spitfire said. “But you could’ve squashed me with a piano!”

“In our defense, it was a fake piano. A prop.” Lightning informed her. “You think we could afford an actual piano? It was made out of wood for crying out loud!”

“That maybe so but you could’ve severely injured me!” Spitfire said. “I would have you both arrested for this!”

“Not to mention you two sabotaged our shows trying to get Rainbow Dash kicked out for her poor performances!” Thunderlane said.

“We had dreams!” Lightning Dust said angrily. “We wanted to be the best we could be for the Wonderbolts! We never meant to harm anypony. I just… I just… I just wanted to impress you, Captain Spitfire.”

“Huh?” Spitfire asked.

“And the flight record was all I had.” Wind Rider said. “I mean Rainbow Dash here, she saved Equestria multiple times! Does she need to have everything?”

“Hey, I feel the same way about Twilight sometimes.” Rainbow said as she walks up to them. “But I get what you’re saying. I do what I can to be the best, but I learned that being the best isn’t everything. We have to care for the ponies around too. We all learn from our mistakes, and that’s why I don’t think Spitfire should’ve taken your ranks.” Rainbow turned around and glared at her.

“Wait… what?” Spitfire asked curiously.

“It takes a while for somepony to learn things, but one little mistake shouldn’t make you take away their dreams.” Rainbow said. “We could’ve all just talked this out, but instead, you kicked them out of the Wonderbolts. You took away their dreams!”

“For the sake of the Wonderbolts, I had to.” Spitfire said.

“I agree with Rainbow Dash.” Thunderlane said.

“So do I.” Raindrops said.

“As I do I.” Meadow said.

“We all have these dreams.” Starry said.

“And one mistake shouldn’t take them away.” Cloud Chaser said.

“WONDERBOLTS RULE! YEAH” Bulk yelled.

“Please, Spitfire.” Rainbow begged.

Spitfire thought it over, and then she sighs. “Perhaps I was being a little too hard on you two.” She said to Lightning and Wind. “I was like you once. I strived to be the best and I thought that’s all it would take. I even thought the safety of others didn’t matter, and we were just for show, but then Rainbow Dash here reminded me that we’re not just a bunch of professional athletes that entertain. We’re here to protect Equestria and all that live in it. So… from this day forward… I shall give you both your ranks back.”

Lightning Dust smiled. “R-really? That… that is…”

“We decline.” Wind Rider interrupted.

“Wait, grandfather?” Lightning asked curiously.

“Don’t you remember what these ponies did to us?! They didn’t trust us!” Wind Rider said. “Luckily, we have found somepony who has! You better prepare yourselves, Wonderbolts! Because the shadows are coming!” Wind Rider grabs onto Lightning’s hoof and then they flew towards the back wall, pulled a door knob prop that was leaning against the wall, and then the wall turns around, leading Lightning and Wind to a secret passage out.

Rainbow suddenly flies towards the wall and crashes into it. She then bangs her hooves against it and yells, “NO! NO! NO! I was so close to reforming them!”

“Don’t worry, Rainbow Dash. You’ve done all you could.” Spitfire said as she places her hoof on Rainbow’s shoulder. “But for now, we must regroup with the others.”

So Rainbow, Spitfire, and the rest all went out back to the public and met up with the rest of Rainbow’s friends, the rest of the Wonderbolts, and even the general. “So… it was Wind Rider and Lightning Dust?” Misty Fly asked.

“Hmm… that complicates things.” Fleetfoot said.

“But the shadows are coming?” Soarin asked. “What the hay does that mean?”

“I don’t know, but we must be on our hooves.” Spitfire said.

“Wonderbolts!” General Fire Strike said as he meets up with the others, and they all salute him.

“General, sir!” Spitfire yelled.

“I’m not saluting to him!” Rainbow said.

“Excuse me, Corporal?” the general asked feeling threatened.

“I heard what Lightning Dust said when she took my badge!” Rainbow said angrily at him. “She said something about a general! I have the feeling you might be in on it.”

“CORPORAL DASH!” Spitfire yelled surprisingly. “How dare you speak to our superior officer like that?!”

“I will allow it, Captain.” The general said to her. “Corporal Dash, you seem to be understandably angry, but I assure you I had nothing to do with it.”

“Then… who?” Rainbow asked.

“Back before I became General of the Wonderbolts, there was a previous general, one that had greed for being the best.” The general explained. “Once we saw who he truly was, Princess Celestia has stripped him of his rank, and I became the new general. He swore to avenge the Wonderbolts, and now I believe he may do so. I urge all of you to use caution. The Wonderbolts may now have a rival in their mist. Report to me if you find anything. For now, dismissed.” General Fire Strike walks away, and Soarin, Fleetfoot, and Misty Fly follow him.

“Well, I guess that’s it then.” Spitfire said to Rainbow. “You really saved my flank there! You really are a great Wonderbolt, Rainbow Dash! I do believe now for sure that I made the right choice of recommending you into the Wonderbolts.”

“Hey, being a Wonderbolt has always been my dream, but if it weren’t for my friends, I probably would’ve ended up just like Lightning Dust and Wind Rider.” Rainbow said as she turns around and smiles at her friends who were talking to eachother.

“Which is why I hereby promote you to the rank of Sergeant.” Spitfire added.

Rainbow gasped in shock. “Wh-what?”

“Congratulations, Sergeant Dash!” Spitfire smiled.

Rainbow was so excited that she was about to yell, “Oh my-“ But Spitfire immediately covers her mouth.

“That won’t be necessary.” Spitfire said. “You and your team are relieved of duty for the time being, Rainbow Dash, until the next time we need you.” She then turns around and walks away.

Thunderlane walks over to Rainbow and says, “Rainbow Dash, we all owe you an apology. We should’ve known that it wasn’t you that was messing up.”

“We hope you would forgive us.” Meadow said.

“Hey, you’re my team, and you always will be my team!” Rainbow said. “Now then… as the Captain said, we are being relieved for now, but you ladies better be ready for when we’re needed next! Do you all get me?!”

“YES, SERGEANT DASH!” Her team saluted.

“Mmhm! You better!” Rainbow said. “Dismissed!” Rainbow’s team all headed off to enjoy the gala some more. Rainbow then walked over to Starlight and said, “I hope you didn’t drink that punch I switched with you.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Starlight said. “So… everything worked out, huh?”

“It sure did!” Rainbow said. “I wouldn’ve done it without you! If it haven’t been for you, Starlight, I wouldn’ve known that I was being sabotaged.”

“Meh, I’m sure you would’ve found out.” Starlight shrugged. “After all, even the most awesome flyer in Equestria isn’t stupid.” They both laughed. As they were laughing, Starlight’s cutie mark begins to glow, starting from down the toothpaste things, and then the stars flash.

Meanwhile, a strange shadow figure watches down at Rainbow and the Wonderbolts from the skylight up above. “The shadows are coming.” The voice whispered as the shadow flies off up towards the moon.

Author's Note

I really hope you enjoyed this one! A great way to end the first half of the story! It's about time Rainbow Dash became an official Wonderbolt, huh? I'm really hoping she does become one this season, because, well, what's taking so long? Rainbow should've been a Wonderbolt already! She already proved herself worthy many times! What's keeping them?

Well, if Rainbow were to become a Wonderbolt, I would know SOMEPONY wouldn't want that to happen. That's why I added Lightning Dust and Wind Rider in here both trying to make sure it doesn't happen. I really have the feeling those two are related. I mean, same eye color, same perspectives, and they both want to be the best in the Wonderbolts, and they both got kicked out. Well, I dunno if Lightning actually got kicked out, because THAT isn't confirmed. What's confirmed is that she lost her lead-pony rank, and even though she probably did get kicked out, it's not certain. I also thought Wind Rider would have a better reason to go after Rainbow Dash than just protecting his record. Having to defend her granddaughter's honor is probably a very touching revenge plot.

I know some of you probably thought Rainbow's team would be Spitfire and the others, but I thought it would be really cool if we got the rest of the cadets from Wonderbolts Academy to also be accepted and become Rainbow's team! Plus, this is probably where the Wonderbolts arc is really going to be interesting! You can see that I'm trying to continue the story, and keep the Wonderbolt arc going! Rainbow just becoming a sergeant doesn't end there! But I won't be continuing this arc this time. Perhaps you can continue the story yourself! I'll allow you!

You know what i REALLY want to happen in MLP soon? For a song to finally have a cowbell in it! XD

Vector art cited:

http://peachspices.deviantart.com/art/Rainbow-Dash-Vector-214311254

http://lahirien.deviantart.com/art/BULK-SMASH-428206591

http://chainchomp2.deviantart.com/art/MLP-Vector-Standard-Pegasus-Stallion-in-Air-312968344

http://90sigma.deviantart.com/art/Cloudchaser-343292648

Starlight Express

Over at Sugarcube Corner, Twilight, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, AppleJack, and Rarity were sitting at a table as Pinkie brings out some treats for them all. “Alllllright, everypony! Some freshly baked baked goods that’s goodly baked and are also cupcakes!” Pinkie said as she sets them on the table.

“Ooooo!” the Mane Five said impressively.

“My, my! They smell delicious, Pinkie Pie!” Fluttershy said.

“I agree! If they’d make a cupcake perfume, I’d buy it in a heartbeat!” Rarity said happily. “But they don’t… so I won’t.”

Rainbow Dash was about to grab a cupcake, but Pinkie immediately slaps it away from it. “HEY!” Rainbow yelled.

“No can do, Dashie!” Pinkie stopped her as she waved her hoof back and forth. “We need to wait until everypony is here.”

“Yeah. Where is Starlight anyway?” AppleJack asked.

“I’m not sure.” Twilight admitted. “She hasn’t been quite herself this morning. I asked her what was wrong and she just walked out.”

“Well it doesn’t look like she’s coming. Can I have a cupcake now?” Rainbow asked with an attitude.

“NO!” Pinkie yelled. “We never leave a friend behind; even if that friend used to be a big meanie.”

“Pinkie’s right.” AppleJack said. “We should head back to the castle and see how Starlight’s doin’. She might need the help of her friends.”

“Agreed.” Rarity said.

“Can we bring the cupcakes with us?” Pinkie asked.

“Yes, Pinkie, we can bring the cupcakes with us.” AppleJack smiled.

“Good, because it’s coming out of MY paycheck.” Pinkie informed them.

So the Mane Six walked back to the Castle of Friendship hoping Starlight would be there. As the Mane Six were walking through the castle corridors, Spike walks by carrying a pile of books. “Dragon on the port-bow!” Pinkie cried out.

“Yeah, hey Pinkie. Hey everypony. You’re back early.” Spike said.

“Starlight hasn’t showed up at our get-together, and we think something might be wrong with her.” Twilight said.

“And these cupcakes are starting to rot. 5 bits down the drain!” Pinkie complained.

“So what do you want me to do about it?” Spike asked.

“We want to find out why she hasn’t showed up.” Twilight said.

“We think something might be wrong with her.” Fluttershy said.

“Could it have to be something to do her regretting the things she did in the past?” Spike asked.

“Maybe.” Twilight said. “Wait… did she tell you?”

“I gotta go.” Spike said as he started to walk away with the pile of books.

“Well that was weird.” AppleJack said.

“I’ll worry about Spike later. Let’s just go find Starlight and help her out.” Twilight suggested.

“If Starlight is worried about her past, could it have something to do with the ponies she’s encouraged to join her society?” Fluttershy asked.

“I don’t think we’ll know for sure unless we ask.” Twilight thought as they continued walking.

Over in Starlight’s bedroom at the castle, Starlight was sitting on the middle of the floor with her eyes closed and using her magic to make the objects around her room float when suddenly there was a knock on the door that ruins her concentration and makes her drop everything, including a pillow on the top of her head. She sighs and yells out, “Come in!”

Twilight opens the door and she and the rest of her friends walk inside. “Hey, Starlight!” she said.

“Hey, Twilight.” Starlight said as she faked a smile. “What’s up?”

“You didn’t come to our little get together at Sugarcube Corner. Is something wrong, darling?” Rarity asked.

“No I’m fine, girls. But thank you for asking.” Starlight said.

“Spike said that your past is sorta botherin’ you.” AppleJack said.

“Well that little dragon doesn’t know how to keep his mouth shut, huh?” Starlight asked sarcastically. “Well, I never told him to keep it a secret.”

“What’s going on, Starlight? Why is your past bothering you?” Twilight asked.

“I know you said I should learn about my mistakes in my past, and all that is is the past, but… it kinda bothers me still.” Starlight explained. “I’ve made so many ponies unhappy about my equality ways.”

“But you went to the village and made amends to everypony, didn’t you?” Rainbow asked her.

“Actually… those weren’t the only ponies I’ve upset in the past.” Starlight said as she stands up and walks over to the window. “Before becoming leader of that village, I travelled across Equestria to see if I could get some ponies to join my cause, and to the ponies that said ‘no’… I…” She turns back towards the Mane Six. “Well, let’s just say that I let my anger get the best of me.”

“I know how that feels.” Fluttershy said.

“You do?” Starlight asked.

“Of course.” Fluttershy said as she walks over to Starlight and smiles at her. “When I thought I was too sensitive, I decided to get tough to prove I could handle myself, but I got carried away and let my toughness out on my friends. We all get angry, Starlight. It just means you’re a pony with feelings.”

Starlight nods. “You’re right, Fluttershy.”

“So we ready to eat the cupcakes now?” Pinkie asked.

“Maybe a cupcake… might help.” Starlight said as she takes a cupcake out of the tray and was about to put it in her mouth, but no matter how much she tried, she hesitated. “I can’t do it, Pinkie. I’m just not feeling it right now. I can’t live like this!”

“Not live with cupcakes?” Pinkie asked. “But cupcakes would bring a smile on everypony’s faces!” Pinkie leaned over towards Starlight, stretching out her neck on the process and asking with a glare, “You never had cupcakes before, have you?”

“Of course I’ve had cupcakes before.” Starlight corrected her.

“Oh phew!” Pinkie wiped her sweat. “I thought your sadness was the cause of the lack of cupcakes, but now that I know you had them before, what you’re going through is completely normal!” She tosses a cupcake into her mouth and then spits out the paper that covered the bottom of it, and the paper lands on Rarity’s face. Rarity didn’t say anything. She just glared at her.

“Well, Starlight, I’m not sure what else to say.” Twilight admitted. “I mean if you really want to make amends to these ponies, I guess you-“

Starlight smiled and yelled, “Wait! That’s it! Twilight, you’re a genius!”

“Wow, Twilight! She calls you what you call me!” Pinkie said as she then pats her on the head. “I have taught you well, young one!”

“What did I inspire you for exactly?” Twilight asked.

“I should make amends to all the ponies I’ve angered over the years!” Starlight said.

“Really?” Twilight asked.

“Of course! It may be the only way I could feel better about myself!” Starlight said. “I can make a list of all the ponies I need to apologize to. I got a good memory when it comes to ponies I’ve met.”

“You sure that might be the best strategy, Starlight?” Twilight asked.

”I think that is awfully nice of her.” Fluttershy said.

“And we can go with her and assist her!” AppleJack offered.

“Oh no, you don’t have to do that.” Starlight insisted.

“We insist, dear. You may want some assistance from us the first few tries.” Rarity said as she winked at her.

“Well thank you all so much!” Starlight said happily. “I wouldn’t know where I’d be without you!”

“Alone, miserable, no friends, maybe in prison.” Rainbow said.

“Rainbow!” the Mane Six all yelled at her.

“What? It’s true!” Rainbow said.

“But she’s right.” Starlight said. “Anyways, I’ll get started with the list, and we can leave tomorrow.”

“I can get Spike to help you. SPIKE!” Twilight called out.

“No, it’s fine, Twilight. Let him do his thing.” Starlight insisted. “I can do this.”

“Well… ok then.” Twilight smiled.

The next day came, and the Mane Six, Starlight, and Spike all headed to the trainstation to catch a train to wherever they need to go. They were pretty excited, especially Pinkie. “Wooo!” Pinkie cheered as she hoped in the air. “Road trip! Or… in this case… train track trip!”

“Ah wonder what places we’re goin’ to be goin’ to?” AppleJack asked.

“I hope Manehattan is one of them!” Rarity hoped.

“Actually it is.” Starlight said as she takes her list out.

“What? That little list?” Rarity asked.

“What little list?” Starlight asked as the paper unfolds itself, touching the ground and even going over the train tracks, revealing that the list is as long as a Hydra’s neck (well, one of them).

“Whoa! That’s a… pretty big list you got there, Starlight.” AppleJack said.

“I know! I’m so proud of her!” Twilight said excitedly. “Starlight likes to keep organized, just like me!”

“So… what places are we going to?” Rainbow asked.

“All over Equestria!” Starlight said. “Canterlot, Cloudsdale, Manehattan, Vanhoover, Fillydelphia, Los Pegasus, Baltimare, Mareami, Appleloosa, Foal Mouth, Dodge Junction, Rainbow Falls…”

“Wow! That’s a lot of places!” Rainbow said surprisingly.

“But no matter what, we’re going to be with you every step of the way, Starlight!” AppleJack promised.

“Yes we are!” Twilight said.

Just as Spike places the last suitcase in the pile next to the Mane Six, he wipes his sweat and says, “Phew! Well, that’s everything! You have a great trip! Best of luck, Starlight!”

“You’re not coming along?” Rainbow asked.

“Sorry, Rainbow, but I have a lot of research to pick up on.” Spike said.

“Research for what?” AppleJack asked.

“Research for research?” Pinkie asked.

“Nah, just… research.” Spike said.

“You’re not going to tell us why?” Twilight asked.

“I said too much already.” Spike said.

“Aw c’mon, Spikey-Wikey! You can tell us!” Rarity insisted as she flutters her eyes at him. “Please? For me?”

“Sorry, Rarity. As gorgeous and tempting as you look, it’s not going to work this time.” Spike said. Rarity was shocked, and Spike realized how shock she was. He smiled at her and said, “But you were so close, I will give you that much, Rarity.”

“No need to force it upon him. If he doesn’t want to say, he doesn’t want to say. He’ll be waiting for us and welcome us back, right buddy?” Starlight asked as she winked at him.

“Absolutely!” Spike said as the train shows up. “Relax. You seven do what you need to do, and I’ll be here waiting for you with some treats!”

“Ooo treats! Is it Nightmare Night already?” Pinkie asked excitedly.

So the Mane Six and Starlight all hop onto the Friendship Express and started going to their first destination. They took a seat in a middle car with Pinkie, Rarity, AppleJack, and Fluttershy on the left side of the train, and Twilight, Rainbow, and Starlight on the other. Twilight immediately asks, “So, Starlight, who’s first on the list?”

“The first pony on the list is a body builder named Muzzle Buff – lives in Fillydelphia.” Starlight said as she read the list.

“Oooo! Fillydelphia! Plenty of history there!” Twilight said. “I’ve always wanted to go there!”

“Wait, you’re looking for a body builder, Starlight?” Rainbow asked like Starlight was crazy.

“Wow! That is very brave for a first time!” Fluttershy said impressively.

“I’m not afraid of anypony on this list! I can get through it with no fear whatsoever!” Starlight said excitedly.

“Well that’ll make this trip a whole lot easier.” AppleJack said.

“Yeah… a whole lot… easier.” Starlight said hesitantly as she looked down on the list and saw the name Sunburst on it. That’s when she started to get nervous.

When the train arrives at Fillydelphia, the Mane Six exit the train and took a cab to the gym. When they got there, there were ponies all over the place excising their hooves, their wings, or even their magic, because magic needs to be strong too, right? Oh and there were some griffons and manitores there too. The Mane Six and Starlight searched around for him. “Anypony know where he is?” Rainbow asked.

“How should any of us know other than Starlight? She didn’t show us a picture of him.” AppleJack reminded her.

“Uh, attention everypony?” Pinkie called out as all the body builder stopped what they were doing. “We’re looking for a body builder here. Any of you seen one?” All the body builders looked at eachother awkwardly, and then they all raised their hooves. “Ah! I found him! I found a couple of hims, and a few hers too!“

“Well… hello, cutie!” one of the body builders said as he walked over to Rarity and Fluttershy.

“Ooooh…” Rarity blushed. “Hello there, muscles! Mind if I have a feel?”

“Uh, sure.” The bodybuilder said awkwardly as he let’s his arm out so Rarity can feel.

“Oh my!” Rarity said excitedly. “Such a big strong pony!”

“Uh, thanks?” the bodybuilder said awkwardly. “By the way, umm, no offense, but I was… actually talking to that cutie behind you.”

“Oh that cutie behind- WHAT?!” Rarity suddenly gasped, and then the bodybuilder walks over to Fluttershy and flexes his muscles.

“Hello, hello!” the bodybuilder said to Fluttershy. “Where is the dragon, because I see a kingdom has lost it’s princess!”

“Oh my…” Fluttershy’s face turned red, but not in a good way. She covered her face with her hair.

“Can it, buff-a-roni!” Rainbow instructed him.

“Oh yeah?” the bodybuilder chuckled. “What can a little pony like you do to stop- OW!” Rainbow suddenly twists the bodybuilder’s arm with her hooves. “OK! Ok! Uncle!” Rainbow Dash released him and the bodybuilder rubs his arm.

“Now tell us where Muzzle Buff is!” Rainbow demanded.

“He’s over there at the trotmill.” The bodybuilder pointed.

The Mane Six and Starlight walked over to Muzzle Buff whom was on a treadmill, trotting in a high speed while breathing heavily, sweating, while listening to music with small ear buds on his ears. Pinkie eventually finds a protein shake bar at the back wall. She smiles and says, “Oooo! Shakes!” and she trots over to it.

Starlight gets a little nervous as she and the others walk over to Muzzle Buff, but Twilight pats her on the shoulder, and then Starlight smiles and nods. “Umm, excuse me?” Starlight tried to get his attention. “Mister… Buff? Mr. Muzzle Buff?” He didn’t respond, he just kept going.

“HEEEY!” Rainbow yelled, but he still didn’t respond. “HEEEEEY!”

“Shhhh! Let Starlight handle it, calmly.” Twilight suggested to her.

Just then Pinkie rejoins the group taking a sip of a protein shake, but then she suddenly spits it out. “Yuck! What kind of protein shakes are these? They’re yucky!”

“Wait… did somepony say protein shake?” Muzzle Buff asked as he stops the treadmill and removes his earbuds. He then spots Pinkie with the protein shake. “Umm… excuse me, miss, but… are you going to drink that?”

“Ew, no! You can have it!” Pinkie offered.

“Really? Thanks!” Muzzle Buff said excitedly as he takes the shake from Pinkie and starts to drink it. “Ah! Much better! I needed some fuel.”

“Fuel? No wonder it tastes icky!” Pinkie complained.

“Never seen you girls here before.” Muzzle Buff said.

“Yeah, well… I work out all the time.” Rainbow fibs as she flexes.

“Umm… hey, Muzzle Buff.” Starlight greeted.

“Hey.” Muzzle Buff said as he continued to drink the shake.

“Do you… do you remember me?” Starlight asked.

“No.” he said as he took another big gulp.

“Oh… well… I kinda let out my anger on you once and I wanted to say… I’m sorry.” Starlight said.

“Ok.” He shrugged.

“Yes I am very sorry for everything I did to you.” Starlight repeated herself.

“Ok, whatever.” He shrugged.

“Yeah for… everything… especially after trying to remove your cutie mark.” Starlight said.

“Uh huh.” He said, still not caring as he takes another sip.

“And for spilling your protein shake.” She added. Just then, Muzzle spits out the shake.

“YOU WHAT?!” he yelled angrily.

“Well, I…” Starlight stuttered.

“Nopony… and I mean nopony…” he angrily says to her as he crushes the protein shake glass with his muscles. “…messes with my protein shakes!”

“And that’s why I’m here.” Starlight said nervously. “I-I-I…”

“Grrrrr!” he growled at her.

“I WANT TO MAKE IT UP TO YOU!” Starlight yelled as she covers herself.

“Well… if you really want my forgiveness, I could use myself with a new protein shake recipe.” Muzzle said.

“Wait…” Starlight uncovers herself curiously. “That’s it?”

“Well, I’m not saying it’s easy though. The ones I have at home are pretty old. I mean my favorite protein shakes are from that bar over there, but they don’t give away their recipe to just anypony.” Muzzle explained.

“Do you know of how I can get it?” Starlight asked.

“If I knew, I’d have it by now.” Muzzle reminded her.

“Oooh… are you sure this is what you want?” Starlight asked.

“You want my forgiveness? Then do me this favor.” Muzzle said as he starts trotting on the treadmill again.

Starlight then turns to Twilight and asks her, “How am I supposed to help him? You think I could just buy the recipe?”

“You know, Starlight, you don’t have to do this for him.” Twilight informed her.

“But I have to! I need his forgiveness to clear my judgment.” Starlight said.

“If you ask me, he seems to be takin’ advantage over you.” AppleJack said.

“But I have to do this! Please, girls! Please, Twilight! Can any of you think of anything I could do?” Starlight asked.

“I got one!” Pinkie said as she buys another protein shake.

“Good idea, Pinkie, but… I don’t have the necessary equipment with me to analyze the recipe.” Twilight said.

“No need! Just watch, and take some notes.” Pinkie said as she drinks the protein shake. She gives her mouth a few taps on her lips, and then she says really fast, “1 ounce of buff powder, 5 teaspoons of oats, one slice of banana, four frozen strawberries, and a quarter-cup of orange juice; and wow, that should’ve been delish! Why was it so icky?” She asks as she then spits out the taste.

“You got it, Twilight?” Starlight asked.

“Hold on.” Twilight said as she continues writing. “And a quarter-cup orange ju- ok got it!”

“I hope this is legit enough.” Starlight said as she takes the recipe and walks back over to Muzzle. “Hey Muzzle?”

“What?” he asked.

“I… I, umm…” Starlight stuttered.

“Well? Spit it out.” He said impatiently.

“I got your protein shake recipe.” Starlight offered.

“Ah, nice!” Muzzle said excitedly as he takes it from her. “This will do very nicely! I will save so much money this way! Thank you so much, umm…”

“Starlight Glimmer.” She said.

“Starlight Glimmer! You have my forgiveness!” he said as he excitedly ran off.

“Wow! You did it, Starlight!” Pinkie said excitedly.

“I did do it didn’t I?” Starlight said excitedly.

“So who’s the next lucky pony you’re going to help next?” Fluttershy asked.

Starlight takes out her list again and reads, “Angel Wings of Vanhoover is next. He shouldn’t be too difficult.”

“What did you do to him?” Fluttershy asked.

“I exposed his crooked ways as a carriage dealer to everypony.” Starlight said.

“Oh… sorry I asked.” She said embarrassedly.

“It’s ok, Fluttershy.” Starlight said. “Nopony believed me anyway. I gotta say, he was good.”

“Why would you want his forgiveness anyway?” AppleJack asked. “Sounds like the type of pony that would rip other ponies off.”

“Yeah, the worst type of business ponies out there! Are you sure you want to do that?” Rarity asked.

“Positive.” Starlight said.

“Well if that’s what you want, Starlight, we will help you get there.” Twilight smiled. “Right girls?”

“Right!” the Mane Five agreed.

“Then let us finish the next 57 ponies off this list!” Starlight said excitedly. The Mane Six all faked smiles as they returned to the Friendship Express to the next town. During this little montage of Starlight trying to earn everypony’s forgiveness, the seven of them all sing a little tune where the train whistles take over most of the instrumental parts of the song like a beat. The song starts off on the train, and it went a little something like this…

Starlight started it off, “Here we are on the road again. We’re here to make amends. Here we are on the rails again. Will it work, it depends. I’ve got to clear my conscience from the catastrophes… the catastrophes I caaaaaused! Checking this list, and check it again… don’t stop until I make amen, oh yeah!”

The Mane Six sang, “All abooooooooard the Starlight Express!” 4 second instrumental pause. “All aboooooooooard the Starlight Express!”

The next part the song gets sung as Starlight’s montage begins. First, Starlight visits Angel Wings at his carriage dealership where Starlight apologies to him and wants to make it up to him. Angel asks her file paperwork for him so he can spend more time selling his carriages. Starlight gets exhausted over all that work and faceplants herself on the papers.

“We’re going town to town.” AppleJack sang. “We won’t stop till it’s done.”

“No matter how much we try.” Fluttershy sang. “This is something we cannot outrun.”

The next part shows Starlight trying to make amends to an actor in Los Pegasus that just finished filming for a cereal commercial. He takes off his dinosaur mask just as he leaves the studio and Starlight shows up with a platter of donuts while giving the actor a fake smile. The actor licks his lips as he picks up a donut and was about to eat it, but he saw that Starlight was still there fake smiling at him, so he waves his arm signaling her to shoo.

“We can’t run, or even hide.” Rainbow sang. “It’s the only way to redemption!”

The next part takes place in Manehattan where Starlight is dressed up in a purple and black sparkly dress as she posses for Photo Finish as she takes a picture of her. The camera flash temporarily blinds her.

“Forgiveness, and favors.” Rarity sang. “Just prove to them you have affection, that’s right!”

Afterwards, Starlight heads over to Dodge Junction to help Cherry Jubilee pick cherries off her trees. It started off as hard work, but Starlight gains an idea. She uses her magic to remove the cherries from the trees, but the easiness turns out to be more difficult as she would have to arrange the cherries from red to yellow, and all the cherries were piled onto eachother. This made Starlight very annoyed.

“All abooooooooooooard the Starlight Express!” the Mane Six sang. “All abooooooooooooard the Starlight Express!”

During the instrumental solo that features an accordion in it, Starlight goes to Baltimare where she is juggling rubber chickens while balancing on a ball. That’s when the accordion solo comes as Cheese Sandwich dances by while playing it, as Boneless 2 was sitting on his shoulders. After that, Starlight goes to Appleloosa to assist Braeburn and Apple Fritter with loading apple pies into a carriage to ship out. Braeburn and Apple Fritter were doing fine when they were carrying one box at a time to the carriage, but when Starlight carries so much at a time using her magic, she trips on a snail and the boxes all fall over and apple pies get dumped all over Starlight and the snail. That was when Braeburn and Apple Fritter started laughing (even though they tried to hold in their laughter, but couldn’t), and Starlight just glared at them without amusement. The snail then licks itself off with a smile on its face.

On the next train ride to their next destination, Starlight was feeling exhausted and upset as she looked out the train window. Twilight notices and she walks over to her and sings, “We knew we were getting close now! This is no time to give in! We’re getting real close now. The situation will never be grim!”

“Yes we’re getting real close now!” Pinkie sang as she reads Starlight’s list. “We only have 22 left to gooooooooo!”

“Wow, that much?” Rainbow complained. “It feels like it’s been forever!”

“Well who’s next on the list, Starlight?” Pinkie asked as she gives her back the list. Starlight looks over the list and then she suddenly gasped because next on the list was Sunburst.

“Well?” Twilight asked as the Mane Six all looked at her with smiles on their faces.

Starlight nervously looks at the list again. She looks at Sunbursts name again, and then suddenly goes down to the name after that. “Turnip Field in Trottingham.” She said with a fake-smile.

“Then it’s off to Trottingburg then!” Pinkie cried out as the Mane Six cheered, leaving Starlight stumped.

As Starlight finishes up the list, the song continues. As this song continues, Starlight continues her list from helping a mare named Turnip Field in Trottingham with cleaning litter off the interstate and got covered in mud by a reckless carriage driver riding along the curve. Afterwards, Starlight goes to Mareami to help out some surfer dudes with chugging a jug full of cider; they were going “Chug! Chug! Chug!” as she finished the whole thing and started to feel ill in the process, but the surfers still cheered. Next, Starlight travels by boat to Foal Mouth Island, where Starlight meets up with a very angry cyclops that roars angrily carrying a supply of coconuts. He then hands some of the coconuts to Starlight and they both started throwing them at a pack of angry Stymphalian Birds attacking the village.

Starlight continued the song during these events, “Favor to favor, task to task, there’s so much forgiveness I’m trying to ask. How am I supposed to live my life with this guilt inside of me? Travelling around, trying to win. Looking for the impendent peace within. How can I live with all this hostilityyyy?”

The next part takes place on a train with Starlight looking out a window, and Pinkie tries to comfort her with her part, “Starlight, don’t you see, friend? You don’t need to be too square.”

“You have, a good heart now!” AppleJack sang.

“So Starlight, please beware.” Rarity sang.

“You don’t need to… finish that list now.” Fluttershy sang.

“Just know that you were fair.” Rainbow sang.

“You’ve done me… and your friends proud, to show that you really care.” Twilight sang.

“Choo choo!” Pinkie tooted.

“All abooooooooooooard the Starlight Express!” the Mane Six sang. “All aboooooooooard the Starlight Express!”

“You made amends, just so you know that.” Twilight sang.

“All aboooooooooooard the Starlight Express!” the Mane Six sang again.

“But Twilight it’s not all that…” Starlight sang.

“All abooooooooooooard the Starlight Express!” the Mane Six sang one last time as the song ends there.

“Wait, what do you mean it’s not all that?” Twilight asked.

“We just finished the last pony off your list, see?” Pinkie pointed.

“So… we’re done there. We can go home now?” Rainbow asked.

“I… I guess so.” Starlight said hesitantly.

“Yes! This trip was REALLY starting to bore me!” Rainbow admitted.

“It was all worth it in the end though, wasn’t it Starlight?” Rarity asked.

“I… guess.” Starlight said.

“Hmm…” Twilight thought. “Doesn’t seem that you’re all that satisfied though.”

“Satisfied? Of course I’m satisfied!” Starlight lied as she chuckled nervously. “I have no reason not to be! I earned the forgiveness of every single pony I wronged!”

Twilight takes the list from Pinkie and takes a look at it. She then says to Starlight while showing her the list, “Or did you?”

Starlight gasped. “No! That’s everypony! I swear!”

“Wait a minute, lemme see that.” AppleJack grabs the list and takes a look at it. “Uhh… who in Equestria is Sunburst?”

“Go ahead, Starlight. Tell them who Sunburst is.” Twilight instructed her.

“Sunburst? Never heard that name before in my life.” Starlight lied nervously. “It must’ve been… uhh… slipped in there?”

“Wow.” Pinkie said. “Even AppleJack can make a better liar face than that!”

“What in tarnation is that supposed to mean?” AppleJack asked insultingly.

“Starlight if you don’t tell them, I will.” Twilight promised.

Starlight knew she couldn’t win, so she took a deep breath and told them the truth, “Sunburst was my friend back when we were young. We did… we did everything together. Until he got his cutie mark and left me.” Starlight started to get angry. “That was when I vowed to have everypony equal! Nopony shall betray the other ever AGAIN!” She slams on the window, which really startles the Mane Six, and some of the other ponies on the train. Starlight took a deep breath and calmed herself down. “Sorry about that.”

“It’s ok, Starlight.” Twilight said.

“Perhaps it would be best if we… went to see him?” Fluttershy suggested.

“WHAT?!” Starlight yelled.

“Or… if you want to.” Fluttershy corrected herself.

“No, Fluttershy’s got a point, darling.” Rarity said. “If you think it might help with your guilt, perhaps the best thing to do is face him yourself.”

“No, but… I mean… you see… I got…” Starlight stuttered.

“You don’t have to see him, if you don’t want.” Twilight said as she places her hoof on Starlight’s shoulder. “Starlight, you changing yourself for the better is forgiving enough. You don’t need the forgiveness of ponies you barely know.”

“Yeah, from what it’s worth, half of them barely remembered you.” AppleJack said. “Sometimes it takes a little travellin’ to know that you’ve done what’s good for your heart all this time.”

“And it takes guts to face the ponies you’ve wronged in the past.” Rainbow admitted as she play-punches Starlight on the shoulder. “I couldn’ve done it better myself!”

“So if you really want to go home, Starlight, that’s your call.” Twilight said. Starlight thought long and hard about what needed to be done, and then she smiles with confidence.

“He’s currently living at Rainbow Falls.” She said. The Mane Six all cheered as the train railed off to Rainbow Falls. As the train arrived at Rainbow Falls and the ponies walk out, Starlight was feeling really nervous. More nervous than she’s ever been her whole life, most likely. She was literary shaking real bad like there was no tomorrow, but luckily her friends were there to calm her down.

“Are you sure you want to do this, Starlight?” Twilight asked.

“I dunno.” Starlight said. “Maybe he’s not even here. Maybe we should just go.”

“Hey! We’re here now; we should just get it over with!” Rainbow persuaded her.

“Rainbow’s right, Starlight.” AppleJack said. “If you want to feel better about yourself, you’d just get this over with.”

“Are you sure it’s going to help me feel better?” Starlight asked.

“Just look at him in the eye and tell him exactly how you feel.” Fluttershy advised her.

“You sure that’s what I need to do?” Starlight asked.

“It works on my animals.” Fluttershy said.

“Ok.” Starlight nodded as she and the others walk out of the trainstation and start walking through town. It wasn’t too long until they left the trainstation when they found him. “Oh my gosh!”

“What? You see cupcakes somewhere?” Pinkie asked as she excitedly looked around.

“That’s him!” Starlight pointed to the unicorn that was showing off his magic to a group of ponies.

“And what happened next, Mr. Sunburst?” a young pony asked.

“Ha ha ha! Ok, sonny. Watch as the amazing powers of Sunburst once again impress your puny little eyes.” Sunburst said as he uses his magic to project a small movie as he narrates his own story for the young ponies. “That was when I had to take action. When the rampaging Manticore attacked the town, I knew I had to take action. Nothing was going to let me down, and so, just like that, we had the battle of the century! Sunburst vs. a rampaging Manticore! I showed him what for, and just like that, the Manticore ran off and never looked back! I was named a hero of the town and I was transferred to Canterlot’s School for Gifted Unicorns. I showed the doubters what for and I was finally happy!” The ponies all cheered after he concludes his story.

The Mane Six and Starlight all heard, and the Mane Six all had disgusted looks on their faces. “Wow… that was… he was…” AppleJack stuttered.

“A show-off, a liar, and a jerk?” Rarity asked.

“Well, that’s three ways of puttin’ it.” AppleJack said.

“Trixie, you’ve officially been replaced.” Rainbow said.

“Are you sure you want to apologize to him, Starlight?” Twilight asked.

“I’ve come this far and I will not come all the way here for nothing.” Starlight said. “I must confront Sunburst now and tell him how I feel.”

“That’s a very brave thing you’re doing.” Fluttershy smiled.

“Hey, I have my new friends here to watch my back.” Starlight smiled. “As long as I know you’re here for me, I can do anything!”

“Well in that case… go get ‘em, tiger!” Pinkie said.

With confidence and her head held high, Starlight starts marching over to Sunburst who was smiling at his audience as they continued to cheer for him. Starlight walks up to him and asks angrily, “So this is you now, huh Sunburst?” Sunburst’s eyes opened surprisingly when he heard Starlight’s voice. “This is what you’re doing with your life? Planting lies and decent?”

Sunburst quickly turns around and with a shocking look on his face, he asks, “Starlight? Starlight Glimmer?! Is that you?!”

“Yes, Sunburst. I’m here.” Starlight said angrily.

“Starlight, I… how did… how did you find me?!” Sunburst asked excitedly.

“Don’t give me any of that!” Starlight yelled at him. “You left me alone at home! When you earned your cutie mark, you just left me! You went on to Canterlot to fill your dreams, and you didn’t even say good-bye! Because of you I had crossed a new path to save friendship throughout Equestria and all I did was cause grief, all because you left me alone!”

“Wait… what?” Sunburst asked curiously.

“You were my best friend, and you ruined my life!” Starlight explained. “When I found my new friends here, I started to have hope! I had high hopes of seeing you again, and now that I got my wish, I suddenly regret it, because I don’t see my best friend Sunburst. All I see is a show-off spreading lies to these young ponies, telling tales! You’re a shadow of your former self, Sunburst, and I will NOT forgive you for this! I hope you’re happy with yourself!” Starlight then turns around and marches right back to the Mane Six.

“Starlight, wait!” Sunburst called out.

“C’mon, girls. We’re leaving.” Starlight demanded as she walks right passed them and starts walking back to the trainstation. The Mane Six all looked at eachother worryingly as they soon followed her.

On the train ride back home, it started to rain, and Starlight just leaned her head on the window just sadly watching the raindrops fall onto the window. She started to tear up just before her friends came over to comfort her. “Hey, sugarcube. You alright?” AppleJack asked.

“Actually… yeah. Yeah I am.” Starlight said as she wiped her tears and looked back at the Mane Six and smiled. “I feel… I feel like a changed pony. I feel like I can do anything now.”

“What happened back there, Starlight? Do you want to talk about it?” Twilight asked.

“I thought you wanted to apologize to him?” Fluttershy asked.

“Me, apologize to him?” Starlight asked as she laughed. “Yeah, that’s good one, Fluttershy!”

“Oh… I… I didn’t realize I was joking.” Fluttershy admitted.

“Don’t you think about stealing my job, Fluttershy!” Pinkie warned her right to her face. So close to her face that they touched muzzles.

“But I didn’t do anything to him.” Starlight said. “If I were to apologize, I would apologize for being his friend in the first place. Like you said, Fluttershy, I had to tell him how I really felt, and therefore I did; and just like that, I feel much better. It’s like I didn’t even need to apologize to anypony on this list.”

“So it wasn’t the other ponies that bothered you. It was just Sunburst.” Twilight understood.

“It seemed all I had to do was face Sunburst all alone.” Starlight said.

“But after the way you talked to Sunburst, you two may never be friends again.” Rarity reminded her.

“I know.” Starlight said upsettingly but then she smiles. “But I have my new friends now, and you will never leave me the way he did. I don’t need him anymore. Friends come and go all the time, and I can’t do anything about it. There will always be new friends to come my way.” Just then, the seven of them all gave eachother a group hug.

After they all return to Ponyville, they all headed back home for the night. The next day came and Starlight was in the library with Spike as Spike was reading. “And that’s what happened.” Starlight concluded her story.

“Wow, I have to say, I never expected that.” Spike said. “I would’ve expected you two to hug and make-up.”

“I did too until I realized how much of a jerk he is.” Starlight said. “How’s the research coming along?”

“So far, nothing, but I’ll get there.” Spike said.

“You know, Twilight is starting to get a little suspicious. Perhaps it’s best to keep the research to a minimum so she doesn’t expect anything.” Starlight suggested.

“Actually, that’s a good idea.” Spike agreed as he puts the book down. “Even though I’m trying to find things on what to do with my life, perhaps it’s best to stick with what I do best until that time comes.”

Just then, the library door opens and Twilight peeks her head inside. “Umm, Starlight? Do you have a minute?”

“Sure, Twilight. What’s up?” Starlight asked.

“I just wanted to say how proud I am of you.” Twilight said as she walks inside.

“For what?” Starlight asked as Twilight walks over to her and sits down next to her.

“For caring so much about ponies that you wish to earn their forgiveness.” Twilight said.

“Yeah, it does feel good to do good.” Starlight said. “All I want is to do some good in the world, and spread friendship throughout Equestria. I still need to learn on what the right ways are a bit, but at least I am on the right path. Or… I am… am I?”

“You are!” Twilight said. “And sometimes… even though you wish for forgiveness, sometimes you need to give other’s forgiveness as well.”

“Yeah, I was actually thinking about that.” Starlight admitted. “Perhaps I was a little hard on Sunburst back in Rainbow Falls. I should’ve just explained how I felt without ranting at him. Oh I wish I could relive that moment so we could just make-up and be friends again instead of me just ending it there on the spot.”

“Maybe you don’t have to.” Sunburst said as he walks into the library. Starlight gasped in shock after seeing him.

“Sunburst?!” Starlight cried.

“Starlight, I was… I was thinking about what you said, and I’m… I’m so sorry for leaving you! Please, Starlight! I would do anything to earn your forgiveness back! It’s all I really want!” Sunburst begged.

Starlight suddenly runs over to him with tears in her eyes and she gives him a hug. “Never leave me alone again!”

“I promise, Starlight. I promise I won’t.” Sunburst said.
“But why, Sunburst? Why did you leave like that?” Starlight asked.

“You think I didn’t regret leaving you?” Sunburst asked.

“Huh?” Starlight asked.

Sunburst sighs as he explains his side of the story. “You see, after I earned my cutie mark from saving you from the toppling books, I got really excited and had to show my parents. I knew our code in trying to earn our cutie marks at the same time, so I immediately wanted to help you earn yours, but just like that, I was immediately signed up for Princess Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns, and they didn’t give me a chance to say good-bye. I tried to tell them, but they were only worried about my future. The first few weeks of my life in that school were miserable, but after a while I had to just accept it and move on with my life.”

“Oh… I see.” Starlight said. “And all this time I was angry at you for leaving me.”

“I was angry at myself too, Starlight.” Sunburst said. “Sometimes… sometimes I wished that… everypony in Equestria would be… you know… equal.”

Starlight surprisingly looked back at him and asked, “Really?”

“Would you understand something like that?” Sunburst asked.

Starlight then smiled and said, “More than you could ever know.” Sunburst smiled back as they hugged again. “But wait…” Starlight stopped. “What about that fairy tale you told those kids at Rainbow Falls? Did that actually happen?”

“Actually no, you were right, it was all lies.” Sunburst admitted. “But you should’ve let me explain it to you.”

“Why would you tell them lies though?” Sunburst asked.

Sunburst started to chuckle and shake his head. “You obviously weren’t there throughout the whole story. The story was actually about me in a young age. I had no talent, no friends, and I was picked on for being different from everypony else. Not everypony has a big white spot on his face. But one pony, a pony by the name of Starlight Glimmer stood up for me to those bullies. I felt so happy because nopony has ever stood up for me before. We became fast friends, and Starlight explained on how unique I was and that I’m about to do great things. But suddenly, a rampaging manticore invades the town and started causing havoc. Nopony could do a thing to stop it. You said that I was the only one that could, but I didn’t have enough confidence; but then you told me to believe in myself, and that the most unique of all ponies are very special. I just had to feel it within me.”

That’s when I knew what to do.” Sunburst continued. “I struggled to use my magic against the manticore, but it was too strong. I kept trying and trying but I couldn’t anything, but there you were rooting for me. I felt your friendship within me, and just like that I impressed everypony in town with my magic. I defeated the manticore, and it ran away like the coward it was. I was praised for it. Even the doubters no longer doubted me any longer.”

“So… so it was me in the story.” Starlight understood. “I was the one that gave you the confidence to believe in yourself and defeat the manticore.”

“That was one of the things in the story that was true.” Sunburst said. “I wouldn’ve gotten where I am today if it weren’t for you. I had to save you from those books, and your friendship earned me my cutie mark.”

“R…really?” Starlight asked as she smiled with tears of joy.

“Really!” Sunburst said. “I go around Equestria telling these stories to the ponies around Equestria who lack confidence in themselves. They may be tales, but… they’re tales that help them go on in life and fulfill their destinies, and that wasn’t all. While I was travelling around Equestria, I was also looking for you, but I couldn’t find you anywhere, but instead…” he smiles. “…you found me.”

“Oh Sunburst!” Starlight gives him another hug. “I missed you so much!”

“I missed you too.” Sunburst said. As they hugged, Spike and Twilight both smiled with tears in their eyes and they both cheered for them. “By the way, Starlight. You never told me how you got your cutie mark.”

“Ooooh… I was just studying magic.” Starlight said. “I thought of you the whole time, and it gave me the will to go on. I felt that were still there with me. I didn’t want ponies to suffer what I had to go through, and just like that, this baby appeared!”

“Interesting!” Sunburst smiled. “So… umm… you want to… grab a coffee or something?”

“Absolutely!” Starlight said. “But… I have the feeling you’re not going to be here forever. Are you?”

“I have to fulfill my destiny, Starlight.” Sunburst said. “Ponies are out there in Equestria that need confidence. But if you… really want me to stay… I’ll…”

Starlight gives him a kiss on the cheek and says, “Just come back and visit, ok?” Sunburst blushes as he places his hoof on his cheek.

Author's Note

This chapter took slightly longer than the first two. It wasn't easy thinking about different ponies that Starlight Glimmer angered over the years and what she had to do to make-up for it. Plus, making up songs isn't always easy, especially if I take a break in the middle of them, but I really liked the results of this song! It kind of shared a similar style to the song Jeopardy by Greg Kihn Band.

Now I'm really impressed how this chapter ended up. I really had no idea what I was doing until the middle of the story when I decided to add Sunburst in. But when I first thought of this chapter, it was pretty much one big reference to My Name is Earl. You remember that show? Just like Earl, Starlight wants to do good in her life to clear her conscience, and I gotta say, when I made the moral in this chapter, I didn't expect it to be that effective to be honest. The ending was pretty feelsy too, but perhaps I could've done more for it. I have the feeling things escalated too quickly between them, do you?

I hope you liked the montage during the song of the return of all our favorite ponies that appeared in not so many episodes! Thought it would be a nice surprise! :D

I just realized the theme of season 6 is "Explore Equestria". For all the chapters I have planned and made already, I guess I'm already doing that theme! XD

Most Excellent Princess

(Celestia facehoof by AxelGold)

One very early morning at Canterlot castle, Princess Celestia was fast asleep in her chambers. She was snorting real loud, her hair wasn’t waving and was all messy, she even started to droll a little. Princess Luna knocks on the door and opens it. “Sister?” she asked. Celestia was still asleep. “Dear sister, it is time to rise from the shine… or… however you say it.” Celestia moans a bit as she turns around, still trying to sleep. “Sister! Celestia! Wake up!” She still didn’t wake up.

Luna sighs and shakes her head. “Ok, sister. You asked for it. I didn’t want to do this, but you left me no other option.” Luna’s horn begins to glow as a glowing beam shined on Celestia’s head and into her ear. Luna then suddenly gets sucked into Celestia’s ear and everything starts to fade. Inside Celestia’s head, Celestia was skipping along lollipop fields. She then jumps into an ice cream sundae and starts swimming around in it. She laughs as she has fun in her desert dream. Just then, Celestia bumps into Luna who was in the ice cream bowl with her.

“Luna?” Celestia asked surprisingly.

“GET UP!” Luna yelled just as the dream suddenly fades and Celestia falls off her bed. Celestia moans as she wakes up.

“What is it, Luna?” Celestia asked in an annoyed tone.

“Oh good you’re awake, dear sister.” Luna said calmly. “Now if you be so kind, I already lowered the moon. Now it is time for you to raise the sun. C’mon, sleepy head, it’s almost 6 AM. Princesses don’t play hooky.” Celestia groans as she flops her head on the floor.

So Celestia finally got up, got dressed in her golden shoes, necklace, and crown and she heads out to her balcony to raise the sun for the morning. When the sun finally rises, the birds chirp, the roasters yodel (or whatever they do), and the ponies in Canterlot begin to do what they do best – being stuck-up. Celestia rubs her eyes in exhaustion as she walks down to the dining hall for breakfast. When she gets down there, she spots Princess Luna and Princess Cadance at the table.

“Princess Cadance? What a pleasant surprise.” Celestia said.

“Good morning, Aunt Celestia! How did you sleep?” Cadance asked.

“Like a baby pretty much, thank you.” Celestia said as she takes a seat. “Speaking of babies, how’s Princess Skyla coming along?”

“She’s doing very well!” Cadance said. “Shining Armor is taking care of her right now as well as the Crystal Empire. I really think he’s going to muck it all up!”

Luna chuckles. “Yeah you can’t trust that pony for anything, Cadance.”

“HA! Ain’t that the truth?” Cadance laughed.

“So what are you doing here anyway?” Celestia asked.

“You don’t remember, sister?” Luna asked. “You’ve been planning this for weeks.”

Celestia yawns and asks, “Planning what for weeks?”

“Uhh… the royal summit?” Luna reminded her.

“Ahhh, the royal summit. How pleasan- THE ROYAL SUMMIT?!” Celestia yelled.

“Something wrong, sister?” Luna asked.

“I completely forgot about the summit!” Celestia yelled as she gets up from the table and starts pacing. “I’m completely behind schedule right now! There’s so much I have to do!”

“Now, now, Aunt Celestia. Calm down.” Cadance advised her. “Deep breathes. Deep breathes.”

Celestia takes a couple of deep breathes and calms herself down. “Thank you, Princess Cadance. I don’t know what went over me.”

“It’s ok. We all get stressed out at times.” Cadance said. “We get behind schedule all the time.”

“You’re right.” Celestia smiled. “I’m sorry, Cadance. I’m not much of a morning pony as you just witnessed here today.”

“We all have our moments.” Cadance said.

“But there is no time to waste.” Luna said. “The delicates from the other cities will be here at noon.”

“You’re right, sister.” Celestia said. “It is time to get started on setting up for the summit. Princess Cadance, you think you can set things up in the ballroom?”

“You can totally count on me!” Cadance said.

“Good.” Celestia said. “Sister, I want you to be in charge in making sure the food and sculptures get prepared for the summit. You think you can handle that?”

“I’ve been handling it for as long as I’ve been around.” Luna said.

“You mean like three years?” Celestia teased.

“Yeah, ha ha ha, that was so funny I forgot to laugh.” Luna said sarcastically. “Anyways, what are you going to do?”

“I’m going to handle the guests when they show up.” Celestia said. “Ponies are still going to come to the castle for plans. I need to be there for them.”

“As you wish. Best of luck to you today, sister.” Luna said.

“Ooooh, Luna, Luna, Luna.” Celestia shakes her head. “I’ve been handling it for thousands of years. I think I know what I’m doing.”

So Celestia walks to her throne room along with her advisor Raven, and her pet phoenix Philomena. She sits on her throne and awaits ponies to show up. Celestia inhales, then exhales, and then she smiles and says, “What a wonderful day today! We got a big day ahead of us, Philomena.” Philomena screeches. Celestia then chuckles and said, “Of course, Philomena! It’s nothing we haven’t done before.” Philomena then screeches again. “Yes, Philomena, I’ll make sure if there are left over cannolis at the summit, you’ll be the one to have them.” Philomena then smiles.

“Your highness?” a royal guard bows.

“Yes, Golden Knight? Who’s our first guest?” Celestia asked.

“Well, umm…” Golden Knight stutters, “it’s not so much of a guest as it’s-“

“CELESTIA!” Discord teleports into the room at excitement, causing Golden Knight to gasp and faint at his entrance. Discord looks down at him and says, “Wow, pretty fragile nerves if I do say so myself.”

“Ah, Discord. What a… err, pleasant surprise.” Celestia said with a smile.

“Of course! It’s always a pleasant surprise when I’m around, Celestia!” Discord said as he wore a party hat, and streamers started blowing all around and confetti dropped from the ceiling, and a banner popped out with the words ‘It’s a boy’.

“What kind I do for you?” Celestia asked.

“Well I heard there was a summit going on today.” Discord said as he sat on top of a mountain that magically appeared in the middle of the room. The mountain disappears and then he said, “And I thought it would be a good idea if I came to participate!” he said as a participation medal appeared on his chest and a crowd cheers in the background when the medal appears.

“Well you are always welcomed to lighten the mood, Discord!” Celestia said. “But just remember, there is a limit.”

“Oooh, and what if I don’t obey that limit? Are you going to pull me over it?” Discord asked as he sat in a car and a police car suddenly pulls up behind him with its sirens on.

“No.” Celestia said. “I know I can trust you now, Discord. You are a good friend! But you know, sometimes you can get a little… out of control.”

“Oh do I?” Discord asked as a kuku clock bird kukus out of his forehead.

“Just don’t bother anypony too much, alright?” Celestia asked.

“As you wish.” Discord shrugged.

“Good.” Celestia said. “Maybe you can help Princesses Luna and Cadance out if you want. Cadance is in the ballroom and Luna is in the kitchen. Perhaps could help them out?”

“Oooh, I do love being helpful!” Discord said excitedly. “Maybe I can help Cadance out with the decorations, or help Luna make the best stew ever made!”

“Hi, my name is Stew.” A pony that magically appears said.

“Whatever you want, but just keep to your limit.” Celestia instructed him.

“Oooh BLAH with the limit!” Discord said as he barfs up the word ‘blah’. “Fine, we’ll do it your way, but only because I like you.”

“I like you too, Discord!” Celestia said as he then teleports away.

“Ugh!” Golden Knight moaned as he rubbed his head and got back up.

“Sleep well, Golden Knight?” Celestia teased.

“Oh, uhh, yes your highness.” Golden Knight bowed.

“Any other guests?” Celestia asked.

“Yes, your next appointment is – Fancy Pants.” Golden Knight reads his list.

“Probably asking for privileges again for the summit, I presume.” Celestia said in an annoyed tone. “Alright bring him in.”

The guards open the doors and Fancy Pants along with Fleur Dis Lee walks inside the throne room and bows to Celestia. “You may rise.” Celestia said.

“Your highness. I come to you today for a, how you say, very legitimate request.” Fancy Pants said.

“No, Fancy Pants, you cannot have special privileges again.” Celestia said.

“I beg your pardon?” Fancy Pants asked.

“If I’m to be completely honest with you, Fancy Pants, you show a great deal of popularity towards ponies, and you’re quite fair to them as it were.” Celestia explained. “But it seems to be out of the question that you just call an appointment with me just to request special permissions that you do not have a reason to earn, so I’m going to have to decline your request.”

Fleur then whispers in Fancy Pants’ ear. “Yeah, I was going to get to that, Fleur. Relax!” Fancy Pants whispered to her. Fancy Pants then fixes his tie and says to Celestia, “I’m prepared to pay you a small fee if you let me have special privileges at the summit.”

“Hmm…” Celestia thought. “Sounds tempting. How much are we talking about?”

“500,000 bits.” Fancy Pants said.

“Hmm…” Celestia thinks again. “No thank you. I’m good. Next!”

“Oh, your highness, I urge you to reconsider.” Fancy Pants persuaded her.

“I said… NEXT!” Celestia repeated herself. That’s when the guards start to escort them out.

“Alright, alright! I’m going!” Fancy Pants complained as he starts to walk himself out along with Fleur. They walk out with their heads up high as the door opens and Filthy Rich comes in. Filthy Rich and Fancy Pants both glare at eachother.

“Fancy Pants.” Filthy Rich said.

“Mr. Filthy.” Fancy Pants said angrily as he and Fleur walk out.

“How mature.” Filthy Rich commented as he walks inside. “Greetings, your majesty!”

“Filthy Rich, compared to Fancy Pants, you are a sight for soar eyes.” Celestia said with a smile.

“Your compliment was most dearing to me, princess.” Filthy Rich bows.

“What do I owe the pleasure?” Celestia asked.

“I’m actually interested in investing some property in Canterlot, and I wanted to have your permission to buy it.” Filthy Rich said.

“What part of Canterlot would you like?” Celestia asked.

“I’d actually like to buy the stadium where the rodeos and Wonderbolt shows are.” Filthy Rich said. “It would be a very fine investment to Barnyard Bargins as I can host some conventions there to sponsor my businesses.”

“Well, as you may know, you can’t officially ‘buy’ the stadium, as it belongs to the city of Canterlot.” Celestia said.

“Understandable.” Filthy Rich said as he takes out a briefcase and shows it to the princess. “I would just like to make a small investment on it, so I can get funds needed for my businesses. I’m going to be expanding my business in Cloudsdale soon, and it’s not very cheap to own a business that belongs to an earth pony in a city where the pegasi live.”

“Hmm…” Celestia thinks it out. “Raven?”

“Yes, your highness?” Raven asked.

“Will you pass me his briefcase, please?” Celestia asked. Raven walks over to Filthy Rich’s briefcase, picks it up and starts to walk over to the princess, but before she could give it to her, Philomena flies over and picks it up and gives it to the princess herself. “Thank you, Philomena!” Raven then sighs. “And thank you, Raven.” Celestia opens up the briefcase and takes a look, but just as she opens the briefcase – SPLAT! A pie pops out and splats Celestia in the face.

Just then, Filthy Rich starts to laugh. Just then the doors to the throne room open and another Filthy Rich starts to walk in with a briefcase. “Your highness!” the second Filthy Rich said. “I am here to make an investment for-“ Just then, he gasps when he spots the other Filthy Rich in the room. He then freaks out and says, “Umm… on second thought, I’ll… I’ll come back later.” He then runs off.

The first Filthy Rich continues to laugh as he changes back into Discord. “Discord?!” Celestia yelled.

“HA! You should’ve seen the look on your face!” he laughed. “Classic!”

“Discord, I was in the middle of a legitimate business deal.” Celestia said angrily.

“Oh I’m not really Discord.” Discord said as he unmasks himself to reveal Luna’s head. “It’s actually me, dear sister!”

“Luna?!” Celestia gasped. “B-but… h… how could you do this?”

“Nah I’m not really Luna, sister.” Luna said as she unmasks herself to reveal Cadance’s head. “It’s me, Cadance!”

“Umm… ok, I’m officially freaked out now.” Celestia said.

“Ok this isn’t fun anymore.” Cadance said as she unmasks herself to reveal Discord’s head. “Jokes run their courses, but sometimes they must end.”

“Discord? I thought you were helping out Luna and Cadance?” Celestia asked.

“Oh I did, but things got a little bit out of hoof so I decided to keep you company instead!” Discord said. Just then, the throne room doors open showing Luna covered random foods and Cadance was covered in confetti and had make-up similar to those from KISS. They both appear unamused. “See what I mean?” he asked Celestia. Celestia then sighs and facehooves herself.

After a while went by in the ballroom, Cadance was making final adjustments to the decorations, and Luna was placing food on platters on the tables. Celestia walks in and looks around. Cadance asks, “Sooo… what do you think?”

“Perfect! Absolutely perfect, Cadance! You never seize to amaze me.” Celestia said.

Discord then teleports in and says, “Although it could use some more cats.” He then snaps his fingers and cats start to appear all over the room. “There! That’s better! Everypony loves cats!”

“Not everypony.” Luna said in an annoyed tone as a cat pulls on Luna’s tail. “OW!”

“Eh, everyone’s a critic.” Discord shrugs.

“Um, Discord?” Celestia asked. “I think it’s best that we… not use cats on this summit.”

“Why not? Nopony’s going to mind.” Discord said.

“The delicate from Baltimare is allergic to cats though.” Celestia informed him.

“Oh… well, that changes everything.” Discord said. “I guess I’ll give to give that delicate a gas mask then.”

“No, no, just… get rid of the cats. We’ll use them… at our next party.” Celestia promised.

Discord sighs and says, “Fine.” He then snaps his fingers and they all disappear. All but the one on Luna’s tail.

“There. But next party, ok Celestia?” Discord asked.

“I promise. We’ll have cats at your birthday party next week.” Celestia promised.

“Um, Discord?” Luna asked showing him the cat scratching on her tail. “You missed one.”

“Ah well, you see… umm… my magic doesn’t affect princess magic so I cannot remove the cat from your tail. Sorry, Luna.” Discord fibbed. Luna then gives Discord a glare as she uses her magic to remove the cat from her tail and place it on the floor. “It already touched your tail. We need to wait a half-hour before I can make it disappear.”

“Well now that we are prepared for the summit, are we ready to start?” Cadance asked.

“Yes. I believe we are.” Celestia nodded. “Guards, let in the guests!” The guards play their trumpets as some other guards by the doors open them up and the delicates from the other towns walk inside. Celestia and the other princesses stood still and smiled at the other delicates. Celestia mumbles to the others, “Just smile and stand still.”

When all the delicates walk in, they all walk over to the princesses and bow to them. “Your highnesses.” One of the delicates said.

“Welcome to the summit, delicate from Baltimare.” Celestia said to her.

“I must say, I am pleased to be here and-“ the delicate sniffles, “and it is such a privilege to be…” she sniffles again, “Oh dear me, my allergies are acting up a bit.” Luna looks back and sees the cat was still on her tail. Celestia saw it too, and she had to get the delicate out of there as soon as possible. “Um, would you like to come with me and get some punch?”

“Well I say, I do enjoy a fair glass of punch every now and again.” The delicate said.

“Right. Please excuse us, sister, Cadance.” Celestia said as she leads the delicate over to the punch counter.

“Now, your highness, I do hope it wasn’t too much getting this party set up for the summit.” The delicate said.

“Oh leading the set-up isn’t always easy, I have to admit, but it’s all worth it in the end.” Celestia said.

“Well that’s fine to hear!” the delicate said. “Because I have a little proposition to-“

“Umm, your highness?” another delicate asked.

“Delicate from Cloudsdale. What can I do for you?” Celestia asked.

“Umm, weren’t we just talking?” the Baltimare delicate asked.

“Um, right.” Celestia understood. “I’ll be with you in a minute, Cloudsdale delicate.”

“Oh no, your highness, this is much too important. I have to speak to you right away!” the Cloudsdale delicate said.

“She can get back to you in a minute, good sir.” The Baltimare delicate informed him.

“This won’t take even a minute.” The Cloudsdale delicate said.

Celestia takes a deep breath and says, “Ok, fine. What is it?”

“We’re in the middle of a finical crisis right now after the whole incident at the Cloudsdale Weather Factory,” the delicate explained, “so we need a small pay rise to-“

“Sir, I’ll let you know that Princess Celestia here is not a bank.” The Baltimare delicate informed him.

“Well, I-“ Celestia was about to say but the two delicates started to argue which keeps getting her cut off.

“But the factory is in need of repairs!” the Cloudsdale delicate said. “We still don’t know who did it, but we’re still in need of repairs before the next rainy season comes!”

“I’m sure we can all work something out.” Celestia said.

“Princess Celestia, if I may?” another delicate asked.

“What do you need, delicate from Trottingham?” Celestia asked trying to keep a smile on her face.

“I’m having some trouble with crime in Trottingham right now. We need to double the police force.” The delicate said.

“Princess Celestia?” the delicate from Manehattan asked. “Will yous please ask the delicate from Mareami to quit breathin’ down my shoulder?”

“But bro, you have, like, the wackiest tie in the whole room!” the delicate from Mareami said.

“Princess Celestia?” another delicate asked.

“Princess Celestia?” yet another one asked. All the delicates keep saying Princess Celestia’s name as she couldn’t hear all of them at once. She started to really get stressed out and lose her patience over all the attention, and suddenly, she finally snaps.

“ENOUGH!” Celestia yelled in a royal Canterlot voice. Everypony in the room suddenly went silent, even the other princesses were shocked. Discord started clapping his paw and claw in happiness, but as Luna and Cadance both glared at him, he suddenly stopped in embarrassment.

Celestia took a deep breath and then she turned around and left the ballroom professionally; even though deep inside she was feeling embarrassed. The other princesses felt bad for what went down, so after the summit ended a little earlier than usual, Princess Luna herself decided to pay Celestia a visit down in her chambers. She knocks on the door and Celestia calls out, “I’m sorry, but I am not accepting any visitors right now.”

Just then Luna opens the door slightly and peeks her head in. “It’s me.” she said.

“Oh… Luna.” Celestia said.

“May I come in?” Luna asked.

“Very well.” Celestia accepted as Luna walked inside and sat down on the bed next to Celestia who was lying down facing away from Luna.

“Are you ok, sister?” Luna asked.

“Not really.” Celestia said.

“Care to explain what happened down at the summit today?” Luna asked.

“I don’t know what went over me.” Celestia said. “I usually stay calm and collected during these events. Somehow… I suddenly just snapped.”

“What happened down there wasn’t your fault, dear sister.” Luna said. “You had no control over your emotions. I would understand, as I once shared a similar experience.”

Celestia sighs and turns over to Luna and asks, “Luna? What’s happened to me? I’ve been more stressed now than I have ever been since I became princess. I always plan the summits, I provide services for my subjects, and I protect them from harm in any way I can.”

“That’s because you’ve been doing it for so long.” Luna said.

“How come you’ve been calm all this time?” Celestia asked.

“Because I’ve had time to think about my actions when you imprisoned me to the moon.” Luna said. “You, on the other hoof, have been princess of Equestria for over a thousand years without break.”

“I know I have.” Celestia said.

“Why have you never bothered to take a break?” Luna asked.

“Because I must be there for my subjects in their times of need.” Celestia said as Philomena flies over to her and rubs her cheek with her beak. “I have to watch over Equestria 24/7 – protect it from danger. Ponies have to keep coming to me for advice, and if I fail them… I don’t… I don’t know what I would do. I would fail them as a princess and a leader.”

Luna places her hoof on Celestia’s shoulder and smiles at her. “You are a good princess, Celestia. You have never failed Equestria once. Sure, you may not be perfect, but neither am I. Nopony is. Not even you.”

“I’m not trying to be perfect, sister.” Celestia said. “I just want the ponies of Equestria to know that I can protect them. They know that I give them hope. It’s a big responsibility, as I am sure you are aware.”

“I am aware.” Luna said.

“Oh Luna…” Celestia places her hooves on her eyes. “Doing the same job for thousands of years… it takes a lot out of you. I have fulfilled my destiny as a princess, and I will be doing so forever more, for as long as Equestria shall stand. If by any case something happens to me… you would be the one to keep charge around here, Luna, and if not either of us… Princess Twilight Sparkle would have to. I wouldn’t want my star pupil to have to go through this stress. But one day…” Celestia turns towards her nightstand and looks at the photo of her and Twilight. “she would have to.”

“But that time has not come yet, sister.” Luna said. “But… perhaps you should use this opportunity to… no… forget I said anything.”

“What? What was it?” Celestia asked as she sat up on her bed.

“No… no it’s not such a good idea. I shouldn’ve started the subject.” Luna said.

Celestia paused for a moment and then she chuckled and playfully smiled as she said in a teasing tone, “Hey… Luna?”

“No.” Luna said as she crossed her arms.

“Hey, Lunaaaaaa.” Celestia said again in a teasing tone.

“You’re not going to break me, Celestia.” Luna ignored her.

“C’mooooon… please?” Celestia begged. “I promise I won’t be mad.”

“You sure about that?” Luna asked.

“As sure as I could ever be.” Celestia said.

“Well…” Luna thought it over. “Ok then. Here’s what we should do.”

After a little while, as Cadance and Discord waited outside, they heard Celestia yell from inside, “ABSOLUTELY NOT!”

Back inside, Luna asked, “Why not? It would be good for you.”

“Sister, I must protest.” Celestia said.

“What? Like I said, nopony’s perfect, and you say you agree with me.” Luna said.

“I know, but what kind of princess would I be if I took a vacation?” Celestia asked.

“What? I’m not trying to ask you to give up your position as the leader of Equestria.” Luna explained. “I’m just saying that all this stress is mainly because you overwork. You’ve been doing the same job for thousands of years, and you need a break.”

“I’m… sorry, Luna. I just… I can’t.” Celestia said, trying to act professional. “Our subjects of Equestria need my allegiance, as well as yours too.”

“They didn’t need my allegiance for a thousand years.” Luna reminded her.

“Look, I don’t think it’s such a good idea. I mean, don’t you remember saying that princesses don’t play hooky?” Celestia reminded her.

“This isn’t ‘hooky’, sister.” Luna corrected her. “It’s just you taking some time off and rest. Get your mind off Equestria, off the subjects.”

“Oh yeah? And who should take over my position while I’m gone?” Celestia asked.

“I will.” Luna said.

“By yourself?” Celestia asked. “Look, I appreciate all you’re offering, but I do not want the burden of my position to stress you out too.”

“Not by myself.” Luna said as she opened the doors to her chambers that leads out into the hallway, and Cadance and Discord smiled and waved at her.

“Helloooo!” Discord said.

Celestia looks at them with an unamused look. “Really?”

“Well… not Discord.” Luna corrected herself.

“HEY!” Discord complained.

“Cadance and me.” Luna said.

Celestia began to chuckle. “You cannot be serious.”

“As serious as I can ever be.” Luna said.

“Don’t worry, Aunt Celestia!” Cadance said. “I agree with Luna 100%. If a week off is exactly what you need, then I’m willing to look after all of Equestria for you.”

“Yes… I also agree!” Discord said as he wore a king’s robe, a crown, and a golden staff with his face on it. “Equestria will remain safe in your absence.”

“Not with you in charge it wouldn’t.” Luna said angrily at him.

“Oh c’mon, Luna! I’ve done so much good in Equestria recently. I deserve as much.” Discord said.

“We’ll do fine, sister. I assure you.” Luna promised.

“Are you sure?” Celestia asked. “Are you sure that I should be the burden of Equestria in your hooves?”

“I’ve been watching you and your royal duties for years.” Luna said. “I pretty much know what I’m doing now.”

“As of I.” Cadance said. “We can totally handle this. I’ve been watching over the Crystal Empire with barely any problems.”

“And I’ve been watching over the night, looking through ponies’ dreams, and in all honesty, it makes the nights much longer than even a few of your days, sister.” Luna said.

“Yeah, and I’ve been watching over ponies that have arguments, mostly for my own amusement, but it also teaches me to know what NOT to do when ponies come to us for advice.” Discord said.

“Well…” Celestia thinks it over. “A week sounds a little long. How about a weekend for starters?”

“Five days.” Cadance suggested.

“Including the days I leave and come back?” Celestia asked.

Cadance and Luna both look at eachother and shrug, and then Cadance says, “Ok.”

“Then I guess I’ll get packing tonight and leave tomorrow.” Celestia said.

“Hey, at least you’ll be relaxing. That’s the important thing.” Cadance said.

“And we’ll make sure Equestria stays on its hooves.” Luna promised.

“Yes, about that… I’ll have to explain some things to you before I go, so we know you know what you’re doing.” Celestia said.

“It’s not too much, is it?” Luna asked.

“Meh, just a few.” Celestia said as she unscrolls a list so long that it rolls out into the hallway. Cadance and Luna both look at eachother worryingly.

The next day came, and Celestia was just finishing up packing her stuff, which wasn’t much. Why would a princess need clothes on a vacay, huh? Luna and Cadance were re-checking the list real quick before Celestia leaves. Celestia immediately closes her suitcase, puts on some sunglasses, and a Hawaiian lei around her neck as she walks out to check up on Luna and Cadance real quick before she leaves. “Ok, so it says here we need to host fundraiser ceremony for the animal shelter in Rainbow Falls?” Luna asked.

“Umm… yeah, I think so.” Cadance said. “Perhaps I should volunteer for that.”

“Good idea.” Luna said. “That would give me more time to make a public appearance for the Canterlot Garden party as well as take a quick breather before I’m needed for the grand opening of Donut Joe’s expansion.”

“No, Luna, you read it wrong.” Cadance informed her. “Donut Joe’s not opening the expansion. Gustave le Grand is. Donut Joe is actually having the huge sale for… wait, he’s donating to the animals in Rainbow Falls. You think it would be better if I volunteered for Donut Joe and then go to Rainbow Falls after that?”

“I can see you two are making your schedule for when I’m gone.” Celestia said.

“Well, we learned it from you, Aunt Celestia!” Cadance said. “Sometimes your constant need of organization rubs off on other ponies.”

“Some more than others.” Luna said.

Celestia smiles. “So I guess I can trust you for keeping Equestria in order?”

“Sister, I told you many times already, we have it under control.” Luna informed her.

“Then I leave the fate of Equestria in your hooves. Particularly you, Luna.” Celestia said. “Please… don’t fail me.”

“Oh please! Have I ever failed you before, sister?” Luna asked. Celestia gives Luna a funny look. “That was a rhetorical question.”

“So you just go and enjoy your vacation.” Cadance said. “Hey, before you know it, it’ll be over and you’ll be back to work!”

“Yeah, you’re right, Cadance.” Celestia said. “Well, I must be off then.”

“Don’t worry, Celestia. Just relax and enjoy yourself. We’ll see you when you get back.” Luna said.

Celestia was about to walk out, but then she stops herself and says, “Though I should check real quick to see-“

“It’s fine, Celestia!” Luna said as she starts pushing her out. “We have it under control. Don’t worry about us.”

“Well… ok then.” Celestia. “I guess there’s nothing more left to say other than by-“ Before Celestia could finish, Luna closes the doors and wipes her sweat.

“Well… at least that’s that.” Cadance said.

“Yeah.” Luna said. “Now… it’s 8 AM, what’s the first thing we need to-“

“But before I go,” Celestia continued as she walked back inside, making Luna and Cadance both groan. “No, no. This will only take a second.”

“Sister, I hope you realize you’re wasting valuable relaxing time to keep checking on us.” Luna informed her.

“I just want to show you something real quick before I go.” Celestia said as she uses her magic to create some kind of device and wrapped it around her wrist.

“Yeah, ni-nice bracet.” Luna said.

“It’s a device I made that’s going to let me know if you’re not doing your job right.” Celestia said. “It flashes and vibrates every time you, Cadance, or even Discord do things you’re not supposed to, because if you mess things up, I would be held responsible for it.”

“You’re kidding, right?” Luna asked.

“And Philomena here is going to keep an eye on you.” Celestia said as Philomena lands on her shoulder. “Just in case something doesn’t go right, she’s going to alert me through this bracelet, and then I’ll be right back here to fix the problem.”

“Celestia, are you sure that’s such a good idea?” Cadance asked.

“Unless you’d rather me not go on vacation.” Celestia said.

“If you’re going to keep coming here when that bracelet tells you to, you’re barely going to relax. You’d be ending your vacation early.” Cadance informed her.

“Don’t worry. Once I check up on you, I’ll be right back to where I was before, relaxing, so it’s not like I’m wasting my whole vacation.” Celestia said.

“Understood. Now can you go now?” Luna asked.

“Don’t you two want to know where I’m going?” Celestia asked.

“NO!” Cadance and Luna both yelled.

“Ok, ok! I’m leaving! Bye! Don’t forget to write!” Celestia said as she slowly starts walking out. “I’m going now. See you soon! I’ll be back before you know it! I’m trusting you to keep watch over Equestria. Because… you know, I’m responsible for-“

“GET OUT!” Luna and Cadance both yelled as Celestia runs out and closes the door behind her. They both sigh.

“Ok… I think she’s gone now.” Cadance said in relief.

“Good. I’m telling the guards to keep her out.” Luna said.

“Ok… so what’s the first thing to do on the list again?” Cadance asked as she checks the list.

“You tell me. You have the list.” Luna reminded her.

“Umm… oh yeah, we’re both supposed to welcome the mayor of Manehattan at the trainstation in ten minutes before he gets to his business meeting.” Cadance said.

“Ok, that shouldn’t take too long. What’s next?” Luna asked.

“Next we’re supposed to say… how much we love Discord and appreciate all his friendship?” Cadance said weirdly.

“Wait, what?” Luna asked surprisingly as she takes the list and reads it. “That doesn’t sound right.”

“That’s what it says.” Cadance said.

“Well what can you expect from somepony that really enjoys my company?” Discord asked as he was laying on a daybed while wearing a Greek king outfit, while eating grapes and getting breezed by one of those old waving fans.

“Ah, Discord. We figured it would be your doing.” Cadance said in an unamused tone.

“Well, with Princess Celestia on vacay, it would be nice if I came in and helped out.” Discord said.

“Thanks, but no thanks. We got it from here. Right, Aunt Luna?” Cadance asked.

“Absolutely.” Luna said. “Even though we do appreciate your help and all, it would be bes-“

“Yes, you do appreciate my help!” Discord said from behind her and Cadance. “And I agree! I am a very helpful Draconequus. Don’t believe me? Ask my many friends?” Discord creates a laptop and shows his online account with his many friends on his list.

“Your many friends?” Cadance asked.

“Yeah, all eight of them!” Discord said. “Which is more than I ever had in the last thousand years!” Discord closes his laptop and it disappears.

“He’s not going to stop bothering us until he gets what he wants so we might as well have help us out.” Cadance said to Luna.

Luna sighs and says, “Fine, Discord. You can help.”

“Oh goodie!” Discord said as he wears a party hat, blows on a streamer, and shakes maracas. “So what should I help with? I’ve always wanted to be a princess!” He wears a pair of wings, a horn, and a crown.

“No you haven’t. I’ve seen your dreams, Discord.” Luna reminded him.

“Oh I know, but I did always want to rule with an iron fist.” Discord said as he shows off his iron fist which was also on fire and had spikes that immediately pops out of the knuckles after he finishes talking.

“Look, Discord, we said you can help, but that doesn’t mean you’re ruling over Equestria.” Luna informed him. “You’re just helping us run it.”

“Oh I know that.” Discord said as he started to chuckle. “Can’t you take a joke? I mean c’mon! I may have turned into a good guy now,” Discord shows a mini Discord angel on his shoulder playing a harp, “but that doesn’t mean the entire bad guyness inside me is 100% gone.” A mischievous devil Discord appears on his other shoulder. “Basically, I’m not good or evil. I’m just shades of gray.” His color disappears.

“We just need to get this list done ok? Can you handle it?” Luna asked.

“Oh of course.” Discord said as he takes the list and puts on some glasses as he starts reading it. “Now let’s see… hmm… boring, boring, boring, done that before, boring, boring, I’m not wearing the right shoes for that occasion, boring, boring, hmm… I supposed I can squeeze in some time to try out the cookies from the bakery shop. As long as there’s no nuts. I’m allergic to nuts.” He turns green and spots appear all over him.

“Ok, I guess you can do that.” Cadance said.

“So do we all know what we’re doing?” Luna asked.

“Absolutely!” Cadance said.

“Meh.” Discord shrugged.

“Ok good. Now let’s prove to Celestia that we can run the kingdom just as good as she can, if not better!” Luna said excitedly.

“YAY!” Cadance cheered.

“Yaaaay…” Discord said sarcastically. “Can I go now?”

“Yeah we should get started shouldn’t we?” Luna asked as the three of them look over at Philomena and she smirks at them.

After a while went by, Luna, Discord, and Cadance wait at the trainstation for the mayor of Manehattan to show up. Discord was getting a little impatient. “Ok how long does it take for a train to show up? I’m getting really bored right now like a game.” he complained as he rolls the dice of a game he poofs up. “Go to jail?! Ugh!” He flips the board game over and pouts.

“The train from Manehattan ran into some delays. It shouldn’t take too long.” Luna said.

“We should’ve done something else on the list.” Cadance said as she takes the list out and reads it. “Maybe I should go ahead to Donut Joe’s sale. You two can handle the wel-“ Just then, Philomena began to screech.

“UGH! What’s that bird’s problem!?” Discord complained as he poofs up some pillows on his ears.

“Please don’t tell me she’s calling Celestia!” Cadance hoped.

Meanwhile at a hotel on the coast, the bell-hop opens the door to Celestia’s hotel room. “Walla! Welcome to the Clam Bag Hotel’s Royal Suite! Perfect for a princess! I hope you enjoy your stay!” The royal suite was huge! It was such a huge hotel room that there was even a piano in the room, with a piano player!

“Thank you so much, good sir!” Celestia said. “But really, I would’ve been ok with just a plain room. You didn’t have to go through all that- ooo, is that a bowl of chocolates?”

“Freshly made from Griffonstone!” the bell-hop said.

Celestia starts eating up half of the chocolates in the bowl, and she says with her mouth full, “Oh yeah. I could definitely get used to this!”

“Well… umm…” the bell-hop continued getting covered in chocolate, “if you need anything at all, we offer 24 hour service specifically for the princess!”

“Thank you so very much for-“ Celestia continued, but before she could finish that sentence, her bracelet starts to vibrate and blink. “Oh you gotta be kidding me. Already?”

“Something wrong, your highness?” the bell-hop asked.

“Please excuse me for a minute.” Celestia said as she uses her magic to teleport away. Just then, Celestia suddenly appears at the trainstation with the princesses and Discord and she asks, “Ok, what did you do wrong?”

“Hey don’t look at me, I was just standing here for 10 whole minutes and my feet fell asleep.” Discord said as his feet were literary snoring.

“What happened?” Celestia asked as she glared at the princesses.

“Look, all I said was I was going to Donut Joe’s sale while Luna and Discord welcome the mayor of Manehattan.” Cadance said.

“No, no, no!” Celestia said. “You have to do everything in order. It’s the only way it works.”

“Sister, I assure you. Discord and I were going to be here to welcome him.” Luna informed her. “Cadance was just going ahead of us to make it on time to the next thing on our list.”

“But the mayor of Manehattan specifically said that he needs three Canterlot representatives to welcome him, and since I’m not around, Discord is going to have to be the third one, and Cadance, you have to stay and welcome him too.” Celestia explained.

“But then I might not be able to make it to Donut Joe’s sale on time!” Cadance complained.

“You have to make it on time. It’s in the schedule.” Celestia informed her.

“But… h-how? That’s impossible!” Cadance complained.

“Cadance?” Luna asked.

Cadance immediately takes a deep breath and calms herself down. “Sorry about that.”

“It’s quite alright, Cadance.” Celestia said. “But you’re a princess. You’ll find a way to do this. Now if you excuse me,” Celestia teleports the chocolate from her room back with her, “I have to get back to my vacay. Ta ta!” She teleports away again.

“Ugh!” Cadance groans. “So this is how she’s going to play it, huh?”

“I’m afraid so.” Luna said in an annoyed tone.

“Mind if I make a suggestion?” Discord asked as he snaps his fingers and then the train magically appears at the station.

“Huh? Wow, that was fast.” The conductor said in a surprised tone.

“Piece of cake.” Discord smiles.

“Well that solves one problem.” Cadance said.

“Yeah, but no doubt it’s just going to get harder, and Celestia’s pretty much going to be bothering us more than she’s going to relax, I’m afraid.” Luna said; and as luck would have it, she was right.

After the mayor of Manehattan was dropped off at his meeting, Luna, Discord, and Cadance go their separate ways to complete the list more professionally. Luna’s first destination by herself was to read some scrolls that were sent to her in the throne room. “…and that’s why we need some extra toothpicks in our restaurant. I hope you can fulfill our request. Sincerely, Big Buffs.” Luna immediately responds to the scroll and writes, “Dear Big Buffs, you don’t need our permission to have toothpicks. Just buy them and leave them on the front for ponies to retrieve and clean all the leftovers from their teeth. Hope everything goes well in your restaurant. Sincerely, Princess Luna.” She then sends the scroll on its way and she starts reading the next one. “Hello! You’ve just been chosen to win a new toaster for- oh forget that!” She then throws the scroll into a box near the throne with the word ‘SPAM’ on it. “Next scroll.”

Just then, Philomena who was standing on top of the throne begins screeching, and Princess Celestia immediately appears again while wearing sunglasses, but she wasn’t the only one that appeared – her lounge chair also appeared with her. “What is it now, Luna?” she asked.

“All I did was throw some junk mail into the spam box.” Luna said.

“Did you read it at least?” Celestia asked while still relaxing on the lounge chair.

“Barely.” Luna said.

“You have to read the whole thing.” Celestia informed her. “It’s a princess’s duty to read all the mail, the whole thing, and respond to them.”

“Why bother? Some of them are just fanmail. They know we appreciate them. I only respond to the important ones. It’s exhausting enough thinking of what to say.” Luna said.

“I’ll say it again – read all the mail, the whole thing, and respond to them. Alright? Alright, I’ll let you to it.” Celestia said as she teleports away with her lounge chair. Luna groans as she picks up the spam scroll from the spam box and opens it up again. She rolls her eyes as she starts to read it again, “Hello! You’ve just been chosen to win a new toaster for- wait, what’s that bacteria stuff I see on the paper?” She looks real closely as a greasy stain on the paper. “Oh great! There’s a virus in this mail!”

Montague time! Meanwhile over at the sauna, Celestia was relaxing and drowning in her own sweat when suddenly her bracelet vibrates again. She teleports over to Donut Joe’s shop where Cadance was about to take a taste of some of his donuts, but the only thing stopping her was Celestia who was telling her that she needed to pay for it, and Cadance shows Celestia the small sack of bits that she gave to Joe. Celestia then teleports a giant sack of bits for the donuts and the rest to donate to the animals in Rainbow Falls. Cadance was very concerned why, but Celestia didn’t care, so she teleported away again, and Cadance felt pretty annoyed.

When Celestia was getting a massage over at the spa, her bracelet starts to vibrate again. She rolls her eyes and teleports to Discord who was dressed as a hobo clown, juggling chainsaws while balancing on a ball. The foals who were watching him at the birthday party cheered in excitement, but when Celestia glares at him, Discord rolls his eyes and turns his chainsaws into fish, Celestia was still glaring at him, and Discord was feeling quite annoyed, so he turns the fish into regular balls and sticks his tongue out at her. Celestia then smiles and teleports back to the resort. Discord embarrassingly smiles at the kids as they just yawned in boredom.

Celestia’s been good for a few hours. She’s been relaxing in a mud bath with a towel on her head and cucumbers on her eyes, but… well, you know what happens next. Luna was next to mess things up, as she was reading Daring Do: And the Marked Thief of Marapore to some students at a school. Celestia teleports into the room and replaces Luna’s Daring Do book with some children’s counting book, and then she disappears again. Luna immediately plants her face into the book knowing that these students were second graders and knew how to count. Daring Do is a child-friendly story. Every other time Celestia interrupts her vacation to check on the three, it was under similar circumstances, and they knew they couldn’t take it anymore, so later that night, the three of them tiredly met in the dining hall.

Actually, more like Cadance and Discord were waiting in the dining hall, but Luna has yet to show up. Cadance was asleep with her head down on the table but Discord was still awake, but barely. Luna eventually opens the door and flops right on the floor. “Oh, Luna, you’re here… good.” Discord said.

“What? No jokes this time?” Luna asked as she crawls over to the table.

“Oh you want a joke? Ok, knock-knock.” Discord said.

“Who’s there?” Luna asked.

“I’m too tired to make jokes.” Discord complained as he falls back towards the ground, buries himself with dirt on the floor, and a gravestone pops out that says ‘R.I.P. Discord’.

“So… did you get everything done on the list, Luna?” Cadance asked as she yawns.

“Are you kidding? I’ve never worked so hard in my life!” Luna complained. “AND I had to raise the moon too. I thought Celestia had it easy, but I’ve never been so wrong in my life!”

“How does she put up with this?” Cadance asked. “No wonder she’s so stressed all the time! Not to mention, this might all be in vein since Celestia keeps coming back from her vacation to check up on us.”

“Maybe its best if she just cancels her vacation and comes back.” Luna suggested.

“Yeah, but… look at the bright side, guys.” Cadance tries to be positive. “We gave it our best. Isn’t that what matters?”

“Gave it our best?” Luna asked. “All I did was raise the moon and blocked the sun. It’s not even set.” Just then Philomena starts screeching. “Oh… great. Me and my big mouth.”

Celestia then appears while wearing a Hawiian shirt, a tan beach hat, sunglasses, a lei around her neck, and she sips a drink from her glass that has a little umbrella on it. “Luna?”

“WHAT?!” Luna yelled.

“Starting an eclipse isn’t night time.” Celestia corrected her as she takes another sip from her drink.

“Oh for the love of…” Luna facehooves herself as she immediately uses her magic to drop the sun right from the sky, making it completely night time. “There! Happy now?!”

“That sun set a bit too fast though, but it’ll do.” Celestia shrugged.

Luna starts to spas out. She spases out very similar to how Twilight does. Her eyes derped, her mane was messed up, one pupil was bigger than the other, and she started to shake. “No, Celestia… no. You know what? I’ll just raise the sun again, and then set it slowly. How about that?”

“No, no. What’s done is done.” Celestia insisted.

“Noooooo… I would LOVE to make the sun rise again! I would love to do everything the way you do it, because I LOVE it so much! LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!” Luna said sarcastically.

“Wow… you need to relax, Luna.” Celestia suggested. “Do you want me to cancel my vacation and come back?”

“No, Aunt Celestia.” Cadance said as she puts her arm around Luna, trying to calm her down. “It may be difficult for us, but we’re all new to this. Don’t worry about us. Just enjoy yourself. You don’t need to come checking up on us every five minutes. We’re doing fine. Right, Discord?” Discord was still buried in his grave, so he didn’t respond. “Yeah I’m sure he agrees.”

“Well… ok.” Celestia nodded. “But if you really want me to come back, just say the word. I wouldn’t mind one bit.”

“And we appreciate that.” Cadance smiled. “Now, after a good night’s rest, we’ll be ready for a new day. I assure you.”

“Ok.” Celestia smiles. “You all are doing a great job. Especially you, Luna.”

“Uh huh.” Luna said as she rolls her eyes. Celestia immediately teleports away again.

“I can’t take it anymore, Cadance. All this work is too hard.” Luna complained.

“I know, but what else are we supposed to do?” Cadance asked. “How are we to prove to Celestia that we can take good care of the kingdom while she’s gone?”

“Ok, the both of you are such liars.” Discord said as he emerges from his grave.

“What are you talking about, Discord?” Luna asked as she rubs her eyes.

“I mean the work is just fine.” Discord said. “We’re having the time of our lives. Having so much fun, are we not?”

“What are you talking about?” Luna asked.

“Wait… I think I get what he’s saying.” Cadance said. “Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”

“That depends.” Discord said. “Did you think I was saying that it’s actually Celestia that’s making us tired because we keep doing things her way?”

“I was thinking the exact same thing!” Cadance said.

“No you weren’t you liar.” Discord glared at her.

“Whatever.” Cadance said. “So you think if we get Celestia out of the way, you think we’ll have an easier time to do her job?”

“I was making ponies smile for what I do.” Discord said. “Making them more child-friendly… umm… there is a limit to how child-friendly I should be.”

“I agree.” Luna said.

“And we all have our unique ways of doing stuff.” Cadance said. “If we do a job, we should do it right, but that doesn’t mean we can’t change it up a bit to what we feel more comfortable with.”

“So it’s agreed then.” Discord said mischievously. “We’re going to catch Princess Celestia off guard, and we’re going to DESTROY her!” When he says that, flames appear behind him as he starts to laugh evilly. Luna and Cadance both look at him awkwardly. Discord then glares at them as the flames immediately go away, and then he says, “Or, we can just try to disable that bracelet device. Y’know, that’s an option.” Luna and Cadance both look at eachother and then they nod in agreement.

The next day came, and Celestia was relaxing down at the beach under an umbrella. She sighs as she lies down under her nice warm sun. The brightness disappears as a shadow leans over her. That was when a little voice said, “Umm… excuse me? Are you Princess Celestia?” the little filly asked.

Celestia removes her sunglasses and looks up at her with a grin. “Who’s asking?” she asked.

“I’m Rainbow Berry.” The filly said.

“Nice to meet you, Rainbow Berry, and to answer your question – yes, I am Princess Celestia!” she said.

“Wow! Cool!” Rainbow Berry said impressively. “I love your sun, and you do a great job running Equestria!”

Celestia giggles and says, “Why thank you! But I don’t run Equestria alone. My sister Luna, she does just as well of a job as I do… perhaps, even better.”

“What makes you say that?” Rainbow Berry asked.

“Well… while I work only in the daytime running the kingdom, Luna works 24 hours.” Celestia said. “While she sleeps, she patrols other pony’s dreams.”

“I know! I saw her one night helping me out with a problem I had.” Rainbow Berry said. “You’re right, princess. She does do a great job! But that doesn’t mean she’s better than you.”

“Oh?” Celestia asked.

“Yeah. She might be better than you in certain things, but you’re also better than her at other things.” Rainbow Berry said. “Everypony is good at their own thing, that’s actually what Princess Luna taught me.

“Wow…” Celestia said impressively. “You’re right. I mean she’s not perfect, but… I’m not either. I’ve messed up things before when I run Equestria, and Luna… well… she hasn’t done one thing wrong all this time I was on vacation.”

“Oh you’re on vacation?” Rainbow Berry asked. “I thought princesses don’t take vacations?”

“Oh we do, young one.” Celestia said as she pats Rainbow on the head. “Only I haven’t because I didn’t think anypony else could run Equestria like I do, but… as it all goes to show… wow… Rainbow Berry, you have been an inspiration to me!”

“I have?!” Rainbow Berry asked surprisingly. Just then, Celestia’s bracelet begins to vibrate.

Celestia stands up and says, “I know what I must do now. I shall return shortly. Will you look after my stuff until I get back?”

“Of course, your highness!” Rainbow Berry said, and that’s when Celestia teleported away. After Celestia teleports away, the filly’s hair spike up like she’s been on a rollercoaster. “Whoa! Awesome!” She said.

Back at the castle, Philomena continues to screech as Discord was just standing around with his eyes closed and a smile on his face. Celestia teleports right in the room and says, “Discord. I can see Philomena isn’t impressed to… whatever you’re do- what are you doing?”

He shrugs. “Meh. Just standing around.”

“Umm… why?” Celestia asked.

“Because I can. Why not?” Discord asked as Cadance sneaks over to Celestia’s bracelet and begins to use her magic on it.

“Well… I mean it’s unnatural of you to just stand around without anything going on around you.” Celestia said. “What’s the catch, Discord?”

“What catch? I just feel like doing nothing. What are you to judge me?” Discord asked. “You going to sue me? Huh, Celestia? You taking away my right to do nothing?”

“I’m not saying that at all.” Celestia said. “I’m just saying it’s unnatural of you. Philomena seems to think so.”

“Well Philomena barely knows the new me. Not sure what that bird’s problem is.” Discord said. That was when Celestia catches Cadance messing around with her bracelet.

“Cadance, what do you think you’re doing?” Celestia asked.

“Oh… umm… just… adjusting your bracelet.” Cadance lied. “It’s a bit crooked.”

Celestia starts to chuckle and shake her head. “Cadance, look, there is nothing you can do to remove or break this bracelet. Did you forget that I was the one that made it?”

“Yeah, I really didn’t think that one through.” Cadance said.

“Plan B?” Discord asked.

“Plan B.” Cadance said. That was when a magical cage falls right on top of Celestia and traps her inside.

“What the?!” Celestia gasped in surprise. “Cadance? Discord? What’s the meaning of this?”

“Don’t look at us. Ask the one who planned this.” Cadance informed her. Celestia immediately looks at Discord and smirks at him.

“Wrong devil, Tia.” Discord said as he had demon horns a tail and a trident, and then he stuck his tongue out at Celestia and hissed like a snake.

“It was I.” Luna said as she emerged from the shadows.

“Luna… you never looked a day older.” Celestia teased. Luna then gives Celestia an awkward ‘really?’ look. “I bet you know what I’m going to ask you next.”

“I do.” Luna said. “I put you in a cage because this has gotten way out of control. You’re going to relax, Celestia! You’re going to have your vacation, even if it is in a magic-proof cage! I won’t stand by and let your stress of overworking take control of you!”

“Even if it means you have to take the stress for me?” Celestia asked.

“I wasn’t stressed before you started having us to do everything your way.” Luna informed her.

“Yeah, Aunt Celestia.” Cadance agreed. “We had everything sorted out – we had everything planned. We were going to get all this done easily and professionally.”

“And the ‘non-boring’ way.” Discord added.

“We had everything under control, sister.” Luna said. “But when you kept postponing your vacation to check up on us, not only are you making it harder, but the main reason I’m getting stressed is because the whole point that we’re doing this is because it’ll give you a chance to finally relax! But…” she sighs, “…you keep coming back.”

“Not to mention your bird is giving us all a headache!” Discord complained. Philomena blushes in embarrassment.

“Luna?” Celestia asked.

“What?” Luna asked.

“Hey, Lunaaaaa?” Celestia asked in a teasing tone.

“What?” she asked again.

“Will you let me out of the cage please?” Celestia asked.

“Why? How do I know you’re not going to escape again and keep coming back?” Luna asked.

“You don’t.” Celestia said.

“Oh she’s good!” Discord said.

“Well…” Luna thought it over, but she didn’t know whether she should or not.

“Just do it, Luna.” Cadance said. “What good are we doing putting your sister in a cage?”

Luna looked back over at Celestia and saw a pleading look on her eyes, a look that Luna cannot resist. Luna sighs as she uses her magic to open the cage door. “There. I let you out. Now what are you going to do?” Luna asked.

“This.” Celestia said as she uses her magic to remove the bracelet from her wrist. Luna and Cadance both gasped.

“You… you removed your bracelet.” Cadance said in surprise.

“Noooooo really?” Discord asked sarcastically.

“Why did you do that, dear sister?” Luna asked.

“Because I shouldn’t worry about you.” Celestia said. “You obviously proven to me that you can handle running the kingdom without me; and in a way, I always knew that.”

“So why didn’t you believe me?” Luna asked.

“Because, I… I…” Celestia sighs. “I just don’t want you to be stressed over this job either. Taking care of a kingdom takes a lot of work, and patience. The only reason you’ve been losing your patience was because I kept checking up on you.”

“I just don’t want you to overwork is all.” Luna said.

“Indeed.” Cadance agreed. “It is good that you love your work, Celestia. Everypony should love what they do, but sometimes, everypony needs to take a break from it, no matter how important it is.”

“Yeah, even I have to take a break from being me sometimes. You know how exhausting it is to be me?” Discord asked.

“Do you?” a second head popped up on Discord’s neck and asked.

“Do you?” a third head asked.

Celestia lets out a chuckle and says, “Oh I believe you, Discord.”

“We all do. Completely!” Cadance said.

“So… what are you going to do now, sister?” Luna asked.

“I’m going back on vacation.” Celestia said. “And this time, I’m going to stay there. No work. You’re right, Luna. This was something I needed for a long time, and it’s about time I officially got it done.”

“I wouldn’t deny that for the kingdom, sister.” Luna smiled as she and Celestia both hugged, and then Cadance joined in, and then Discord joins in and picks them all up.

Philomena starts screeching in joy. Discord cringes and says, “Oh, and you’re taking your bird with you, Celestia.”

Later that night, Celestia returns to the resort and relaxes on the bed. “Well, Philomena,” she started, “I have to say, vacation is much more enjoyable without worrying about work.” Philomena agrees. “I trust Luna and Cadance completely to run Equestria. Maybe I should vacation more often.” Philomena screeches in a concerned tone. “Discord? Meh… I wouldn’t trust him COMPLETELY to run Equestria. I mean as long as Luna and Cadance look after him, I’m sure it’s fine.”

Philomena screeches again. “Yes, Philomena. I have learned an important lesson today. Hmm…” Celestia looks over on her end table and finds a piece of paper and a quill. She picks them up with her magic and started to write a message. It goes: “Dear Princess Twilight Sparkle, I’m writing to you today because I wanted to tell you about an important friendship lesson I learned today.”

Meanwhile over at Twilight’s castle in the library, Twilight was reading some books while Spike was reading one of his comics. He started feel a little woozy as he barfs up a scroll from the princess. “Huh. It’s a letter from Princess Celestia.” Spike said as he gives it to Twilight.

“Really? It’s been a while!” Twilight said excitedly as she takes the scroll and opens it up. “I wonder what this is about?” She starts to read the letter. As she read the letter, she began to smile. “You sure learned an important lesson today, my faithful teacher.”

“What? What did it say?” Spike asked.

Twilight inhales in satisfaction and she says, “Pack your bags, Spike. We’re going to take a little vacation.”

“Really?!” Spike asked excitedly. “Oh boy!” He then quickly runs out of the room and comes back with a green bathing suit on with gems on it, he had a surf board with him, some sun screen on his nose, and some shades on. “I’ve been dreaming about this moment my whole life! So where are we going?”

“I dunno. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’d like to go somewhere away from books.” Twilight said as she stands up from her chair and begins to walk out of the library. Just as she walks out, we get one final moment to view a picture on one of the shelves showing Princess Celestia and Twilight. The exact same way from Celestia’s nightstand back at the castle.

Author's Note

Let me ask y'all a question real quick. Why hasn't there been a Celestia episode yet? I mean, I know she's appeared more often than Luna during seasons 1 and 2, but now that Luna's appeared alot and Celestia hasn't done much, now I'm thinking Luna's doing more and Celestia hasn't done enough. So I made a chapter with Princess Celestia has the main character, but still, Luna did appear in the majority of the chapter. I guess an episode mostly just featuring the princesses is good too. I also gave Cadance a role, and then I gave Discord a role because why not? No Mane Six appeared in here, well except for Twilight who appeared in the end because all episodes have at least one Mane Six character to appear.

Having Celestia be the one to learn a friendship moral is a great change! It shows that she isn't perfect, that she can also make mistakes, and sometimes her younger sister has to be the one to show her reason. It's nice having something like that! Show a big bond between Celestia and Luna through everyday circumstances. There really should be an episode similar to this one day on the show. Wouldn't you agree? Celestia is an interesting character, and she needs more character development, not just being a leader that's only there to protect her subjects and learn them a thing or two. Something like this would make Celestia a much more interesting character; maybe then Luna wouldn't be the favorite among the fans, and both Celestia and Luna can be loved equally!

Link to Axel's page: http://axelgold.deviantart.com/