Hammer & Anvil

by IronPiedmont1996

Chapters

Chapter I
Chapter II
Chapter IV
Chapter V
Chapter VI
Chapter VII
Chapter VIII
Chapter IX
Chapter X
Chapter XI
Chapter XII
Chapter XIII
Chapter XIV
Chapter XV
Chapter XVI
Chapter XVII
Chapter XVIII
Chapter XX
Chapter XXI
Chapter XXII
Chapter XXIII
Chapter XXIV
Chapter XXV
Chapter XXVI
Chapter XXVII
Chapter XXVIII
Note from the Author
Chapter III
Chapter XIX

Chapter I

Jackboot never saw himself as special, despite what some tell him. He was a light gray young unicorn stallion with a dark brown mane that, like his tail, was cut rather short as he liked it and was the same color as a chocolate. Much like other ponies in Canterlot, he wore set of clothing, which consisted of a white button up shirt, a brown vest with a gold watch, a red bow tie, and a brown cloth cap. What really made him stand out were the boots he wore on each of his hooves, which were, like his cap and vest, were also brown with five gold buttons.

The only thing he thought he was good at was his magic, especially when he was fallowing in his late father’s footsteps as a handypony, which led to his cutie mark being a hammer and anvil. His father, along with his mother, taught him several lessons about life that he has taken deeply to heart, a strong work ethic, a sense of self-reliance, and a sense of individuality.

Unfortunately, social skills were not something he never really caught onto, as Jackboot preferred to be alone; essentially he became that colt who had his head in a book at recess. This is what led to him getting bullied, often at times, being reduced to tears. This bullying had continued on until one particular incident. An incident involving in which he used his magic. An incident he has tried to forget ever sense he was a colt.

Not wanting to have her son not deal with bullying anymore and to make sure that such an incident never happens again, Jackboot’s mother got him enrolled in Princess Celestia’s Magic School for Gifted Unicorns. This is a decision that Jackboot had thanked his mother ever sense, mainly because his teacher was Celestia herself. But despite his good experience at Celestia’s school, he still couldn't make friends.

But that is about to change…

Current Time: 1:32 PM, Monday

“There we go.” Jackboot said to himself.

Jackboot was in the royal suite of Canterlot Castle, in the process of replacing the chandelier. The new chandelier he had actually made himself. It had taken several days to make it and he was very proud of it. After he got the ladder in place, he proceeded to climb it.

“Easy, easy.” He said, trying to balance at the top of the ladder. “Alright, let’s get started.”

Jackboot had cut off the gas flow to the chandelier earlier, so taking the glass bulbs off was no trouble without the flames going. After he set the last of the bulbs down, he then turned his attention to carefully disconnect the chandelier from the gas line. This involves having to keep hold of the chandelier while also removing the screws and disconnecting the gas hose, all at the same time. Jackboot took a deep breath.

“Alright.” He said. “It’s now or never.”

Jackboot used his magic to take hold of the chandelier. Each screw slowly came out of each one’s socket.

“Careful.” Jackboot said to himself. “Be very careful.”

All the screws were perfectly taken out without trouble.

“Alright, now for the difficult part.” He said as he took a breath. “I can’t rush this.”

He then started to unscrew the hose from the chandelier. Much like with the screws, disconnecting the gas hose was something that cannot be rushed. The gas hose, more specifically the connectors, were surprisingly fragile, any mistake could cause the hose to break, and more importantly, the chandelier would fall. Whether or not it was not going to be in use anymore or not, Jackboot didn't want to leave a large dent in the floor.

“Got it!” He said as the hose disconnected with a loud click. “Perfect execution.”

He then gently set the old chandelier down onto the floor below.

“I bet that antique store down the street from home would love that.” Jackboot said with a sigh of relief. “Now for the just as difficult part. Connecting the new one.”

He then levitated the new chandelier in place of the old one. He then carefully held it in place before taking hold of the gas hose again. As he began to put the two connectors to together, a suddenly felt a tickle in his nose. But before he could begin to disregard it, reflex took over and he let out a loud sneeze, causing him to lose his hold on the chandelier.

“NO!” He shouted.

Suddenly, there was a large flash and then Jackboot found himself at the floor. Without a second thought, he grabbed the chandelier with his magic before it hit the ground.

“Thank Celestia I know how to do that.” Jackboot said with relief.

Jackboot then set the chandelier down gently and climbed up the ladder again. Again, carefully balancing at the top.

“Okay, let’s try this again.”

He once again took hold of the chandelier and brought it up to its rightful place. He then connected the gas hose to it, this time without the interruption of a sneeze. The hose emitted its loud click, indicating that the connection was successful.

“Thank Celestia.” Jackboot said. “Smooth sailing from here.”

Jackboot screwed in each of the screw back into their respective sockets. He then let go of the Chandelier, allowing it hang freely. All Jackboot had to do now was place the bulbs back in place. After he placed the last bulb perfectly back in place he then proceeded down the ladder.

“Job well done.” He said to himself aloud.

After his hooves made contact with the floor, he suddenly heard somepony speaking to him.

“A job well done indeed.” She said.

Jackboot almost jumped out of his skin. He turned to see who was speaking to him, only to find, his hero, his mentor, the Princess of all of Equestria herself standing at the open door with a smile on her face.

“Princess Celestia!” Jackboot explained with surprise before bowing before the white alicorn who stood before him.

“How have you been Jackboot?” Celestia asked in greeting. She then looked up at the new Chandelier. “That looks great, Jackboot. Thank you so much for it. I hope it wasn't too much trouble.”

“It was no trouble what so ever. It’ll look better once I get the gas going and light it.” Jackboot said, no longer bowing. “And I must say you’re looking beautiful as ever today.”

Celestia chuckled cheerfully at Jackboot’s compliment.

“Is there anything else you want of me?” Jackboot asked. “Any windows needing polishing?”

“That won’t be necessary.” Celestia said. “I was actually wondering if you could meet me out in the garden. I need to speak with you.”

“Of course, Princess.” Jackboot said without hesitation. “I’ll be there once I turn gas on and get this old chandelier out of here.”

“Don’t worry about that.” Celestia said. “I’ll have somepony get that done.”

“Are you sure?”

Celestia nodded.

“Alright, I’ll see you in the Garden.” Jackboot said. “After I return this ladder of course.”

The sun shined brightly overhead. The birds chirped and the squirrels ran amuck in the Castle Gardens. Jackboot took a breath of the sweet summer air as he strolled through the garden. He always enjoyed coming here. He and Celestia, along with several other students, often practiced their magic here.

As he looked around, he spotted Celestia in a clearing up ahead. She seemed to be talking to somepony, but Jackboot couldn't see who it was due to Celestia’s majestic mane blocking his view.

“There she is.” Jackboot said.

As he got closer, he caught the Princess’s attention. When Celestia turned around, he got a clearer view of who she was peaking to. This pony was a light green unicorn mare with a puffy mane and tail of the same color both with several streaks of pink and a pair of silver eyes, the same as his. Jackboot then saw the mare’s cutie mark and saw it was were two green buttons and needle and thread and she wore a red ascot around her neck. This mare’s name is Emerald Button.

“Mother?” He asked. “What brings you here?”

“Nice to see you as well sweetheart.” His mother said. “Celestia was telling me what a great job you did on that Chandelier.”

“It was nothing.” Jackboot said. “Anyway, what did you want to speak me about, Princess?”

“Oh yes.” Celestia said remembering what she called Jackboot out for. “You see, Emerald and I have noticed what a great impact you've had in regards to keeping the Castle in top shape.”

“And keeping all of Canterlot in order for that matter.” Emerald added.

Jackboot blushed as he rubbed the back of his neck. He was aware of how much work he’s done for Canterlot, but he never really expected praise for it, or wanted it for that matter. He didn't care how many bits he received for his services, he just loved doing it.

“You see, the Summer Sun Celebration is being held in Ponyville.” Celestia continued. “You’re familiar with this town, right?”

“I am, yes.” Jackboot said. “That’s where Princess Luna made her grand return.”

“Well, your mother and I have been talking and we decided…” Celestia looked at Emerald and then back at her son. “…we decided that this is a good opportunity for you, say, expand on your talent.”

Jackboot processed what his mother and the Princess had told him.

“So you want me to help out with this Celebration?”

“With your skill, you’re the perfect pony for the job.” Celestia said. “After all, who else could I send to help Twilight? Of course there’s…”

“Wait a moment.” Jackboot said suddenly. “Sorry to interrupt you Princess. Did you just say Twilight? As in, Princess Twilight? As in, Princess of Friendship Twilight Sparkle?” Excitement filled Jackboot’s voice as he went on. “That Twilight Sparkle?!”

Emerald and Celestia smiled, both noticing the amount of excitement in the young stallion.

“Yes that Twilight Sparkle.” Celestia said with a chuckle.

“I've always wanted to meet Twilight Sparkle ever since her coronation.” Jackboot said. “Not to mention, she used to be your most faithful student. And also the bearer of an Element of Harmony.”

“So you will go?” Emerald asked.

“If I knew I was going meet Twilight Sparkle herself, I would've run all the way to Ponyville myself.” Jackboot said. “Excuse me, but I’m going to go and pack right now. Thank you so much for this opportunity Princess, thank you, thank you, thank you!”

Jackboot was acting as if he received the toy he saw in the store window on Hearth's Warming Morning.

“You’re very welcome Jackboot.” Celestia said. “But you might have to wait a day or so. Part of the train tracks leading out of Canterlot is under construction. So it’ll be a while before you leave.”

Jackboot then gave the Princess a sly look.

“Not if I have anything to say about it.”

Chapter II

Current time: 7:08 PM, Wednesday

Jackboot looked out the window of the train car as it raddled down the track towards its next destination, the destination being Ponyville. He wore his brown suit jacket with a white handkerchief in the pocket, which completed his outfit. He looked at his watch and saw that it was eight minutes after seven. The renovation of the train tracks going out of Canterlot took longer than expected. Once he got the track finished, he rushed home as quickly as he could, packed what he could, and then caught the first train out. But not before he and his mother had a little conversation before the train arrived.

“Making friends.” Jackboot said to himself. “Mother, I hope you’re right.”

Several hours earlier…

Jackboot stood on the platform of the Canterlot Train Station with his mother, Emerald Button. Between the mother and son was a large black suitcase. As they waited, Emerald decided to spark a conversation to pass the time.

“How do you feel?” She asked.

Jackboot looked at his mother.

“A little nervous.” He answered. “But overall, I feel fine.”

“That’s good.” Emerald said. “Do you have everything with you?”

“Yes ma’am.” Jackboot said as he tapped the large piece of luggage. “Everything I need.”

“Good very good.”

Emerald turned her attention back the crowded platform. She then returned her attention to her son who stood quietly by her side.

“So Jacky, what do you plan on doing once you arrive at Ponyville?” She asked.

Jackboot thought for a moment.

“Well, help plan for the Celebration if I were to state the obvious.” He answered. “Other than that, I’m not really sure.”

“Maybe while you’re there you could… …well… …make some friends.”

What Emerald said, it was as if the anvil on Jackboot’s cutie mark fell on his head.

“Make friends…” He said with what seemed to be anxiety in his voice. “…okay.”

Jackboot half looked away.

Emerald, noticing her son’s anxiety, put her hoof on his shoulder.

“Sweetheart, look at me.” She said, getting Jackboot to look at her. “I know making friends might be a tad bit frightening, but you’re a grown stallion and it’s about time you made some. I get so worried when I see you sitting by yourself with your head in a book. There’s nothing wrong with that, but I really think you’ll be happier if you had a couple friends to talk to, or play with, or, heck, find a book with.”

Worried. That word always hit Jackboot hard. He hated the idea of worrying his mother, whether or not he did something wrong or not. Just the word itself stung more than a bee.

“I’m sorry.” Jackboot said as he looked down at the platform. Those two words were the only thing he could think of when he made his mother worried.

Emerald sighed. She knew how sensitive her son can be, but she most certainly wasn't going to baby him. Especially at his age.

“Don’t apologize.” She said. “You can’t keep beating yourself up like this. If you had some friends, you wouldn't feel so down like this.”

“It’s not that I’m against making friends.” Jackboot said. “It’s just… …what if I have another…”

“Incident?” His mother asked, knowing what he was going to say.

Jackboot nodded.

“Well, that’s not going to happen.” Emerald continued. “Especially not in Ponyville. Celestia told me that it’s the friendliest town in all of Equestria, so you won’t have any trouble.” A thought entered her mind. “And may I remind you that Twilight Sparkle is there. You know, the Princess of Friendship?”

The spirit in Jackboot’s face returned.

“You’re right.” He said. “I’m sorry. I don’t know why I keep on doing that.”

Emerald smiled at her son.

“It’s alright.” She said. “But still, I would absolutely love it if you made at least one friend or two. And I’m pretty sure your father would love that too.”

Jackboot took hold of his pocket watch and smiled at it.

“Yeah he will.” He said.

“Maybe while you’re in Ponyville, you could also find a nice mare and…”

“Mother!” Jackboot said, cutting his mother off.

“I’m only joking.” Emerald laughed.

Suddenly they both heard the loud whistle of the train, followed by the loud screech of its brakes.

“Ponyville!” The Conductor shouted. “All aboard for Ponyville!”

Jackboot then turned to his mother.

“I guess this is goodbye mother.” He said. “I promise to write when I can.”

Emerald then hugged her son tightly.

“I’ll miss you so much.” She said before giving the young stallion one final peck on the cheek.

The train came to a screeching halt at the station.

“Ponyville!” The Conductor shouted. “All out for Ponyville!”

Jackboot immediately grabbed his suitcase and got off.

“Here we are.” He said as he stepped onto the wooden platform. “Ponyville.”

He looked around the platform. Celestia had told him to keep an eye out for somepony named Spike.

“Okay Spike, where are you?” Jackboot asked. “More importantly, who are you?”

As Jackboot looked around the platform, he felt somepony poke him from behind. He turned and saw the somepony who poked him, was no pony, but a short purple dragon.

“Oh hello.” Jackboot he said with surprise. He then stuck his hoof out in greeting. “Jackboot, at your service.”

“Spike, nice to meet ya.” The dragon said, shaking Jackboot’s hoof.

Jackboot emitted a chuckled that was a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

“I just shook a dragon claw.” He said. “My first time out of Canterlot and I meet a dragon.”

Spike smiled at the newcomer’s excitement.

“I kind of like this guy.” He thought.

Spike then looked up at the sky, seeing how the setting sun turned the sky a pretty red hue.

“It’s getting a little late.” He said to Jackboot. “You want to get to the castle?”

“Of course.” Jackboot answered. “Lead the way.”

Princess Twilight Sparkle sat in the throne room of her castle. She was reading a list of what festivities will be present at the Summer Sun Celebration. This list included the names of food vendors, the Apple Family being one of them of course, what sort of decorations will be displayed, the entertainment, and a series of suggestions that several ponies had made. This year’s Celebration would no doubt be a success as the chances of something bad happening three times in a row are rather slim.

As she continued reading the parchment before her, she heard the sound of her loyal assistant calling her name.

“Twilight!” He shouted. “We’re here.”

Twilight’s attention to the list vanished upon hearing those two words.

The doors of the throne room opened and the familiar little dragon entered, followed by a very well dressed unicorn carrying a large suitcase with him.

“Hello there!” Twilight said in greeting.

She then got off from her throne and approached the gray stallion.

“You must be Jackboot.” She said. “Celestia told me a lot about you.”

Suddenly, Jackboot put the suitcase down, removed the cap from his head, put it to his chest, and bowed before Twilight.

“It is an honor to meet you, Princess Twilight Sparkle.” He said formally. “As Celestia is my witness, I will not fail in the planning of the Celebration. I solemnly swear.”

Twilight was surprised by the young stallion’s action. Celestia had informed her that Jackboot was very well mannered, but didn’t expect him to be this formal. And it was also a surprise as he had referred to her Royal Title, as it has been quite a while since any pony referred to her in that way.

Twilight merely chuckled.

“It’s alright, Jackboot.” She said. “You don’t have to be so formal.”

Jackboot’s head sprung up to look at Twilight. Realizing what he was doing, the rest of him sprung up as well.

“I apologize, dear Princess.” He said as he put his cap back on. “Other than Celestia and Luna, I don’t often meet Royalty.”

“It’s okay.” Twilight said. “Anyway, how was your journey?”

“It had gone well.” Jackboot said. “It was rather crowded. Especially with the track leading out of Canterlot under construction. I would know because I helped repair it.”

Twilight’s interest increase. He was that hard of a worker?

“And I must say it’s really nice to finally meet you, Princess.” Jackboot continued. “I've been dying to meet you ever since your coronation. Congratulations by the way, despite it being however long ago it was.”

“Why thank you Jackboot.” Twilight said. “And it’s nice to meet you too. Celestia told me a lot about you. We’re going to get along well, you and I. Isn't that right Spike?”

“That’s right.” Spike agreed. “We’ll be good friends by the time the Celebration gets here.”

Friend. That word brought Jackboot back to that conversation he had with Emerald before he left.

“I bet so.” Jackboot said, successfully hiding his anxiety. “So anyway, is there something like a temporary cottage prepared for me, or a room at an inn?”

Twilight and Spike looked at one another, both with a confused look on their faces.

Twilight then looked back at her guest.

“Inn? Cottage?” She asked.

Jackboot was just as confused as the Princess and her dragon friend.

“No silly.” Twilight said. “We actually have a room prepared for you here in the castle.”

Jackboot’s eyes immediately popped out of his head and his jaw hit the ground.

“I get to stay here in the castle?” He asked with surprise in his voice. “That’s not going to be a problem is it?”

Twilight smiled. Celestia had informed her of how humble the stallion before her was.

“It’s no problem at all.” She said. “In fact, it was actually my idea for you to stay here.”

If Jackboot’s eyes popped out any further, they’d be on the floor at this point.

“I…” He said, trying to get his words out. “…I’m forever in your debt, Princess Twilight. I can’t thank you enough.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Twilight said.

Twilight then took noticed of the attire Jackboot was wearing. Being a Canterlot pony herself, Twilight wasn’t at all surprised by it.

Jackboot took noticed that Twilight was examining his clothes.

“What is it?” He asked. “Do I have something on my jacket?”

“Oh it’s nothing. I was admiring your clothes.” She said. “Especially those boots of yours. They’re really nice.”

“Thank you.” Jackboot said. “I made them myself, along with everything else you see before you.”

If a stallion from Canterlot wearing clothes didn’t surprise her, the fact that somepony at his age had made all of those clothes, including the boots, most certainly did.

“You made all of that yourself?” She asked with excitement obvious in her voice.

“Indeed I did.” Jackboot said. “You think they’re that good?”

“Are you kidding, they’re amazing!” Twilight answered excitedly. “I bet you and Rarity will get along just fine.”

That name caught Jackboot’s attention. Who was this Rarity?

“I’m sorry but who is this Rarity?”

“You don’t know?” Twilight asked. “She’s owns that boutique in Canterlot, as well as runs the one here.”

“I’m sorry, but don’t really pay that much attention to stuff like that.” Jackboot explained.

“Don’t worry about it.” Twilight said assuring her guest. “You’ll probably meet her tomorrow. With that out of that way, Spike, why don’t you show Jackboot his room and we can get dinner started?”

Spike didn’t answer.

“Spike?”

The two unicorns looked at the young dragon and saw that he was in what appeared to be a love sick trance.

“Rarity…” He said. “…beautiful…”

“Is he alright?” Jackboot asked with concern.

Twilight rolled her eyes and tapped her assistant on the shoulder.

“Spike. Spike!”

Spike snapped out of it.

“I’m sorry, what we’re you two saying. Something about boots?”

Twilight sighed but followed it up with a smile.

“I was asking if you could show Jackboot his room and then we could get dinner started.”

“Oh, okay. I’m on it!” Spike said. “Want me to take you bag Jackboot?”

“It’s alright, Spike.” Jackboot said as he picked the suitcase up with his magic. “I got it; you lead the way.”

Spike nodded and waved for Jackboot to follow him. As they left the throne room, Twilight got Jackboot’s attention.

“Yes, princess?” Jackboot asked.

“Welcome to Ponyville.” Twilight said.

Chapter IV

Current time: 1:31 PM, Thursday

Jackboot emitted a large burp as he and Pinkie Pie walked out of the Hay Burger.

“Pardon me.” He said, covering his mouth.

Pinkie Pie laughed.

“That was weak.” She said before emitting a louder belch.

Jackboot laughed at Pinkie’s burp just as she did at his.

“I thank you again Miss Pie.” He said. “Although I could’ve payed for our meals.”

“It’s alright Jacky.” Pinkie said. “After all, we’re friends now.”

That word again.

“We are friends right?” She asked.

Jackboot then smiled and nodded.

“Yeah, we are.” He said.

Pinkie giggled.

“Well, I got to get back to Sugar Cube Corner now.”

She then latched onto Jackboot like a pair of vice grips.

“I’ll see you later new bestie!”

“I’ll see you as well.” Jackboot said, almost gasping from breath.

Pinkie then let go and went on her way, but not before giving her new friend a quick but friendly smile.

“New bestie.” He said, repeating what Pinkie had said. “I like the idea of that, but why does my gut say otherwise?”

He then paused.

“But yet I already know the answer.”

As Jackboot walked through town, he looked up at Twilight’s castle.

“I wonder where the castle is.” He asked himself jokingly.

As he looked at the castle, he looked down at the street and saw a familiar purple dragon, who appeared to be carrying something.

The dragon saw Jackboot and waved over to him.

“Hey Jackboot!” He said. “What’s up?”

“Hello Spike.” Jackboot said as he approached the young assistant and saw that he was carrying a bag filled with unknown contents.

“What have you been doing all day?” Spike asked.

“Well I helped Applejack and her big brother pick apples, two carts worth at that, I met a pegasus named Rainbow Dash, discovered what was left of the library, and had lunch with a very energetic pony. I think her name was Pinkie Pie.”

“That’s good.” Spike said. “Nice to see you’re having fun.”

Jackboot then took more notice of the bag Spike is carrying.

“What do you have in the bag there?” He asked.

“It’s full of Owlicious’s feathers.” Spike explained, patting the cloth bag. “Rarity is making a dress for a client and needed feathers for it. Fluttershy is bringing some feathers too.”

“Who’s Fluttershy?” Jackboot asked. “Friend of yours?”

“Yep, she’s probably at the Boutique right now.” Spike said. “Come on, I’ll introduce you.”

The two found themselves at Rarity’s Boutique. The decorative looking building interested Jackboot. It reminded him a lot of some of the businesses in Canterlot.

As they approached, they spotted a yellow, pink haired pegasus touch down in from the building carrying a bag similar to Spike’s.

“Hey Fluttershy!” Spike said, calling over the mare.

The mare turned around a smiled upon seeing the purple dragon.

“Hello Spike.” She said quietly.

She then looked over at Jackboot.

“Hello, who are you?” She asked.

“This is Jackboot.” Spike said, introducing the well-dressed stallion. “He’s here to help out with the Summer Sun Celebration.” He then looked over at Jackboot. “Jackboot, this is Fluttershy. If you want help with any animal, you come to her.”

Jackboot then extended his hoof in greeting.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Miss Fluttershy.”

Fluttershy gently shook Jackboot’s hoof.

“And you too Jackboot.”

Spike then knocked on the door before entering with Jackboot and Fluttershy in toe.

Jackboot looked around the inside of the boutique. It looked rather similar to the boutique his mother owns back in Canterlot, but Rarity’s was a tad pinker than his mother’s.

“Rarity we’re here!” Spike called.

“Coming!” Someone answered from another room.

Jackboot heard hoof steps coming from the stairs, assuming that this pony is Rarity he heard so much about. Upon seeing who came down the stairs, it seemed that for Jackboot, time slowed to a complete halt as her hooves made contact with the floor.

Time may have stopped, but Jackboot’s heart didn’t get the message. At this point, one wouldn’t need a stethoscope to see how high his heart rate was.

“Beautiful…” He thought as the ponies perfectly styled, indigo mane bounced as the mare strode across the floor to Fluttershy and Spike.

Fluttershy and Spike? That’s right, he didn’t come alone.

“Oh thank you such much darlings.” Rarity said as the yellow pegasus and the purple dragon gave her the feathers.

“You’re welcome Rarity.” Fluttershy said.

“Anything for you.” Spike added, bordering on another love sick trance.

Rarity thanked her friends as she began to notice the third pony in the room.

“Oh hello there…” Her welcome was cut off by the sight of Jackboot’s clothing.

“Oh my goodness!” She shouted.

She then raced over to Jackboot. Suddenly, time seemed to almost fast forward.

Jackboot backed up a little as the white mare got close to him.

He looked into her eyes, which resembled sapphires and glistened in the light as she looked up and down.

“I absolutely love your outfit!” She said with glee. “I must know who designed it. Can you give be the ponies name?”

Jackboot didn’t know what to say at this point. The most beautiful mare he’s ever seen was several inches away from his face.

Suddenly, Rarity produced a look of concern.

“Are you alright?” She asked.

Finally Jackboot snapped out of it.

“Oh, yes!” Jackboot said, unintentionally answering loudly. “I’m sorry, what were you asking?”

“I was asking who designed your outfit.” Rarity said. “It’s absolutely lovely! Especially those boots!”

Seeing that mares smile made Jackboot almost melt into his boots. But he didn’t want to melt just yet, as he had to answer her question.

“Actually, I designed them.” He finally answered.

Rarity’s eyes almost popped out of her head, much Jackboot almost did several times before, upon hearing his answer.

“You made them?” She asked.

“Yes, ma’am.” Jackboot said. “Boots and all.”

“That’s incredible.” Rarity said. “I must say, you and I will get along perfectly.”

She then stuck her hoof out.

“I’m Rarity.”

Jackboot shook her hoof as gently as he could.

“Jackboot.” He said. “Pleasure to meet you ma’am.”

Rarity smiled. Again, causing Jackboot to almost melt.

Rarity’s smile faded as she seemed to remember something.

“What did you come here for again?” She asked. Before anypony could answer, she then remembered. “Oh of course, the feathers!”

She then turned to the two others in the room.

“Thank you again for the feathers.” She said. “I really appreciate it.”

“If you don’t mind me asking…” Jackboot said. “…what are you making exactly?”

“Oh, I’m making a lovely feather boa for an outfit I’m making.” Rarity answered happily. “But…” Her smile disappeared yet again. “…but I can’t make anything right now.”

Jackboot grew concerned.

“What happened?” He asked.

“I accidently knocked my sewing machine over.”” Rarity explained. “It didn’t explode or anything, thankfully. But something is wrong; the feed dog just doesn’t want to move. Now I can’t make anything now. It is the WORST. POSSIBLE. THING!”

Jackboot understood.

“Wait here.” He said. “I’ll be right back.”

Before anypony can say something, Jackboot turned around, ran towards the door, and there was bright flash, and Jackboot was gone.

“Where did he go?” Fluttershy asked.

Before anyone could answer, the bright light returned and so did Jackboot. This time, Jackboot had a saddle bag of tools.

“How about I have a look at it?”

Rarity led everyone into her room, which she also used as her work room. Jackboot saw the sewing machine. It looked to be alright, but then again, Rarity said earlier that it didn’t explode.

“The feed dog won’t move.” Rarity explained. “I can’t seem to figure out what’s wrong.”

“I’ll see what I can do.”

Jackboot then positioned the machine to where he can work with it. He took out his screw driver and began to unscrew the screws which kept the shell of the machine closed. After removing the last screw, he carefully opened the machine, revealing the inner workings of the machine. He then used his horn to light the interior, making it easier to see. As he examined the inner workings, he saw the problem.

“Bingo!” He said.

He then waved for Rarity to come to him. Spike and Fluttershy did the same.

“You see this part here?”

Rarity looked and recognized the part Jackboot pointed at.

“That’s the mechanism that helps the feed dog work.” She said. She then saw that one of the rods was dislodged. “Oh, I see.”

Jackboot then took hold of the rod and reconnected it back to its rightful place.

“There we go.”

Jackboot then put back part of the shell of the machine. As he put back the screws that held it together, Rarity got his attention.

“I thank you so much, darling.”

Darling. That one word almost caused Jackboot to drop his screw driver. But fortunately he was able to maintain his composer and continue his task.

“It’s no problem, ma’am.”

He then put the last screw in place and put his screwdriver into the bag.

“What do I owe you?” Rarity asked.

“Oh please. You don’t owe me anything.” Jackboot said.

“But darling, I must give you something in return.” Rarity beckoned.

Suddenly, Rarity had an idea.

“Wait here a moment.”

She then trotted over to a chest in the room and opened it. From within the came a series of shining lights.

This caused Spike to almost drool.

What was in the chest?

Rarity then retrieved something from within it before closing the chest.

She then trotted over to Jackboot, took his hoof, and placed something in it. Upon Rarity removing hers, Jackboot that what she gave him was a large blue crystal. It would make Spike’s claws look tiny if he were to hold it.

Suddenly, the image of silhouette of a grown stallion lying on the floor came to his mind.

Jackboot gasped, letting the crystal fall to the floor.

“What’s wrong?” Rarity asked with a worried tone. “Do you not like it?”

Jackboot looked and saw a look of sadness on Rarity’s face.

“Oh, no.” Jackboot said as he picked the crystal up from the floor. “I thought I saw a bug on it. Guess it was my imagination playing tricks on me.”

Rarity’s face returned to her pleasant smile.

“But still, though.” Jackboot continued. “You really didn’t have to.”

“But I insist Darling.” Rarity said, putting a hoof on his cheek. “You deserve it.”

Jackboot, again, almost melted upon seeing that wonderful smile of hers, combined with those two shining eyes.

“Alright then.” He said. “I’ll accept it. Thank you, Miss Rarity.”

Rarity’s smiled continued.

“Well anyway, I got some work to do.” She said as she approached her repaired sewing machine. She then turned again to Jackboot. “And again, thank you so much Jackboot. I hope I see you again.”

Jackboot nodded.

“I hope to see you again as well, Miss Rarity.”

Rarity grinned before she began on her work.

“Well, I’m going to head back home now.” Fluttershy said. “Angel Bunny is probably wondering where I am right now.”

“I’ll walk out with you.” Jackboot said. “I’ll see you later Miss Rarity.”

“And you as well, Jackboot.” Rarity said as she waved at him.

Jackboot and Spike strolled down the road together.

Jackboot still had Rarity on his mind.

“Such a pretty mare.” He thought.

As he thought of Rarity, he felt the crystal rattled in his pocket.

“She really didn’t need give me the crystal.”

“Well, she is the Element of Generosity.” Spike said.

Suddenly Jackboot stopped.

Spike noticed this and stopped as well.

“What’s wrong Jackboot?” He asked.

“Could you repeat that please?” Jackboot asked.

“She’s the Element of Generosity.” Spike said.

“Are you telling me that I was speaking to an Element of Harmony the whole time?” Jackboot asked. “Who are the other Elements? I know that Twilight is the Element of Magic.”

“Well, you have Fluttershy who is the Element of Kindness.” Spike explained. “Then you have Pinkie Pie, the Element of Laughter, Apple Jack, the Element of Honesty, and then you have Rainbow Dash, the Element of Loyalty. Since you were Celestia’s student, wouldn’t you have known this already?”

“Well, my memory is a little weak sometimes.” Jackboot said. “When I was a colt I fell off a ladder and hit my head pretty hard.”

“Ouch. That must’ve hurt.” Spike said. “Are you okay now?”

“Well sometimes I do remember things, sometimes I don’t.” Jackboot explained. “It’s pretty on and off sometimes. I get so annoyed when I forget something important. Like not setting my alarm clock.”

“Well it could be worse.” Spike said. “You could end up forgetting an entire day when you go to sleep.”

“Well thank Celestia I don’t have that problem.” Jackboot said. “With that out of the way, what’re you going to do now that you gave Miss Rarity those feathers?”

Before Spike could answer, they heard someone calling over to them.

“Spike, Jackboot!” They heard.

The looked and saw Twilight Sparkle flying to towards them. Who of which landed in front of the two.

“Hey Twilight, what’s up?” Spike asked in greeting.

“Just got back from the Hay Burger.” She said. “I got a little hungry.”

“I was there earlier.” Jackboot said. “I was there with Pinkie Pie.”

“Sounds like you’ve been having a good day.” Twilight said with a smile. She then turned her attention to Spike. “I’m glad I found you Spike. It’s about that time to reorganize the Library.”

“Oh man.” Spike groaned.

“Mind if I help?” Jackboot asked.

“Of course you can.” Twilight said happily. “Maybe while we do that you can tell me about your time as Celestia’s student.”

“Sure. But there’s something I’d like to know.” Jackboot said. “What happened to the library? Was there an accident or something?”

Twilight sighed, knowing very well of what happened.

“It’s a long story…”

Chapter V

Current time: 12:31 PM, Saturday

Jackboot looked up at the chandelier of the throne room. He, Twilight, and Spike had spent all of Thursday afternoon, all of Friday, and all that morning reorganizing the library. So now he was finally having a good look around the castle.

Twilight had explained to him that the chandelier was made of the same roots of the Golden Oaks Library, which amazed Jackboot. Twilight had also explained that each of the gem ornaments which hung from it are memories of all the times which she and her friends spent together, all the way back from when Twilight first came to Ponyville. Not to mention back to when Twilight was still a unicorn, as opposed to the alicorn she now is.

Twilight entered the throne room and saw Jackboot marveling at the chandelier. She smiled upon seeing the young stallion joyfully glare at each of the shining gems.

“Like what you see?” She asked.

Jackboot jumped.

“Oh, Twilight. Hello.” He said.

“I’m sorry did I scare you?” Twilight asked as she approached Jackboot.

“A little bit, but’s that’s alright.” Jackboot answered. “And yes, I really like that. Hard to believe that your friends managed to put this in without you knowing it.”

“Well, Spike managed to keep me away from the castle long enough for them to do so.”

Jackboot chuckled.

Jackboot then noticed something on the roots of the chandelier.

“Hey, Twilight.” He said. “I think one of the ornaments came loose.”

Twilight gasped upon hearing what Jackboot just said.

“What? Where? Which one?” She asked frantically.

Jackboot pointed at the lowest root, where Twilight saw something shining.

“I got it.”

Jackboot then brought it down carefully with his horn.

“Here we go.”

Jackboot took the ornament in hoof and saw that it was bright yellow with a small red circle in the middle.

“What memory does this represent?” He asked. “With it being this color, I hope it was a pleasant one.”

Suddenly the two heard somepony’s voice.

“Well that’s just rude.” That somepony said. “I’m always a pleasant memory.”

Jackboot looked around.

“Is somepony in here?”

“Of course, somepony is here!” The voice said. “Look down!”

Jackboot then looked back down at the supposed gem and saw that it, to his surprise, blinked.

“Whoa, jeez!”

Jackboot jumped backwards, dropping the gem to the ground.

The gen stopped in midair. Suddenly, a second smaller, but identical “gem” appeared next to it. The gems were not gems. They were eyes.

Then those eyes became part of a larger body which looked to have a head of a pony and a body of all sorts of things.

“Greetings dear Princess!” The creature said. “How have you been?”

Twilight sighed.

“Discord, what are you doing here?” She asked.

The creature, named Discord, seemed to be rather offended by that.

“Why Twilight!” He said. “Can’t I come and see how and old friend is doing? That’s what friends are for, right?”

There was that word again. This time it was said two times in a row.

Discord then turned his attention to the welled dressed stallion in the room.

“Oh hello, the reason I’m here.”

Discord then reached down and shook Jackboot’s hoof. Rather roughly, Jackboot thought.

“You must be Jackboot." He said. “Fluttershy told me about you.”

Jackboot was at a loss of words. Right in front of him was the spirit of Chaos himself. And he was shaking his hand! Wouldn’t he turning his clothes into chocolate or his boots into paper? Suddenly Jackboot’s memory jolted. Celestia had told him that Twilight and her friends had reformed him. However that worked. Either way, that explains why Jackboot’s cap hadn’t turned into a live raccoon at this point.

“Uh, nice to meet you.” Jackboot said, still with concern. “So, Miss Fluttershy told you about me.”

“Oh yes she did.” Discord explained. “It was during our afternoon tea when she told, so I thought I’d come down here right quick and meet you.”

Jackboot grinned nervously. He knew that Discord had been reformed, but the stories about him still lingered in his mind.

“So you came all the way down here just to meet me?” He asked.

“Why of course.” Discord said. “After all, it’s nice to see that Twilight had adopted a new pupil.”

Jackboot and Twilight looked at one another and back at Discord.

“Actually she’s not my teacher.” Jackboot explained. “Celestia sent me to help with the Summer Sun Celebration.”

“Oh, really?” Discord asked with interest. “Why don’t you tell me this over tea at Fluttershy’s?”

Jackboot was surprised. First the spirit of chaos shakes his hand, now he’s inviting him for tea. Then again, the tea was with Fluttershy, and Jackboot has been meaning to speak to her more since their brief encounter the day before yesterday.

“Well, I don’t see why not.” He said. “After all I hadn’t had a good cup of tea in a while.”

He then turned to Twilight.

“Do you want to come with, Princess? I mean, Twilight?”

“It’s alright. You go on ahead, Jackboot.” Twilight answered. “I’m going to see if we missed anything in the library.”

“Alright then, let’s go!” Discord said.

Discord then grabbed Jackboot by the jacket and the two disappeared in a bright flash.

“And when I turned around…” Fluttershy said. “…I managed to see Angel Bunny do a complete flip into that mud puddle.”

Rarity laughed out loud at Fluttershy’s story. She sat on the sofa wearing a light blue sun hat with a white feather. Fluttershy had invited Rarity to one of her afternoon teas with Discord. Discord had left earlier after Fluttershy had told him about Jackboot staying with Twilight. As Rarity was about to say something, a flash of light appeared and disappeared with a loud proof, with Discord appearing in the light’s place.

“Miss me any?” He asked. “What did I miss?”

“Fluttershy was telling me about how Angel Bunny got dirty.” Rarity said. “By the way, where did you go?”

Before Discord could answer, there was a knock at the front door.

“Speaking of.” He said.

He then snapped his fingers and the door opened. There on the other side of the door was familiar well-dressed pony.

“Oh Jackboot, what a surprise!” Discord said. “What brings you by?”

“You did.” Jackboot said. “You led me to the door, told me to knock, and then you disappeared afterward.”

He then saw Fluttershy.

“Good day, Miss Fluttershy.” He said. “How are you?”

“I’m doing fine, Jackboot.” Fluttershy said. “Please come in.”

Complying, Jackboot entered the house and closed the door.

As Jackboot walked towards Discord and Fluttershy, he then noticed that somepony was sitting on the sofa behind Discord who was standing in front of it. That somepony was Rarity.

Jackboot stopped in his tracks.

“H-hello R-Rarity.” He stammered. “H-how are you?”

“I’m doing great Jackboot.” Rarity said. “Would you care to join us?”

She then slid over to one side of the sofa and patted the spot to her left.

Jackboot, without missing a beat, went and sat down on the sofa. Fluttershy then gave him a cup of tea and Discord materialized an arm chair for him to sit.

“So Jackboot…” Discord began after thanking Fluttershy for his cup of tea. “…you said you’re here to help with the Summer Sun Celebration?”

“Yes, I am.” Jackboot said after taking a sip of tea. “And quiet honestly, I’m not really sure of how I’m supposed to help.”

Discord sipped his tea before he continued.

“Well, how do you think you can help?” He asked. “There has to be a ton of things to do.”

“Hopefully nothing bad happens like the past couple of times.” Fluttershy said. She was all too familiar with what sort of bad things had happened.

“You can say that again.” Rarity agreed.

“I must say this is very good tea.” Jackboot said. “Is this Oolong, is it not?”

“Yes it is.” Fluttershy said.

“Wow, cultured and can make clothes.” Rarity said with interest. “Tell me, how you have such knowledge of cloths making and tea.”

Rarity was looking Jackboot right in the eye with those two sapphires. He almost forgotten to speak, but managed to maintain his composure.

“Well, my mother is actually fashionista back Canterlot…”

Before he could continue, Rarity practically spat her tea all over Discord. In which, the tea turned into tiny bits of tea leaves.

“You’re from Canterlot!?” Rarity asked enthusiastically.

Jackboot almost fell out of his seat. He knew Rarity can be excited easily, based on his experience, but jeez!

“Yes, I am.” Jackboot said, calmly. “I’m actually Celestia’s student.”

“Just like Twilight was?” Rarity asked. Jackboot nodded. “Why my dear Jackboot we must talk more often.”

She then realized that she had cut him off.

“Oh darling, I’m sorry, I interrupted you.” She said with regret in her voice. “Please continue.”

Jackboot then took another sip of his tea before continuing.

He told how his mother had taught him practically everything there is to know about making and repairing all sorts of different types of clothing and how his father had taught him everything there is about forging metal and repairing all sorts of things.

“That’s very interesting.” Fluttershy said with her cup now empty.

“I agree. I knew I’d get along with you the moment I saw your clothes.” Rarity said. “Which by the way, I say again, they’re just amazing. Especially those boots. How do you get those on?”

Jackboot set his tea cup down on the table.

“They go on like this.” Jackboot then used his horn to undo the buttons. He then un-wrapped the leather flap of the boot about three times before his hoof was free. “Like that.” He said. He then re-wrapped the leather and re-buttoned it in place.

“Exquisite.” Rarity said, marveling at Jackboot’s footwear.

Jackboot smiled as he snapped the last button in place.

“Did you come with the design all on your own?” Rarity asked.

“Well, not all on my own.” Jackboot said. “My…”

Jackboot paused for a moment.

“…my father originally created the design.”

“Oh, well I would love to meet this genius of father.” Rarity said with joy. “What is this stallion’s name?”

“His name is…” Jackboot said. “…well, his name was Iron Girder.”

Rarity, Discord, and Fluttershy all put two and two together once they heard “was”.

After several moments of deafening silence, Rarity was the first to speak.

“Darling, I’m so sorry.” She said. “I didn’t know.”

She then out her hoof over his.

Jackboot felt his face heat up upon feeling the mare’s hoof touch his.

“It’s alright.” He said with a smile. “It was so long ago, yet it feels so recent.”

“If it’s not too much…” Discord said. “…how exactly did he, well, pass on?”

“I…” Jackboot felt a lump form in his throat. “…I don’t really feel like talking about.”

Normally, Discord would either coax someone into explaining more, or reach into his thoughts, but this time he decided to leave it be, seeing how serious this was.

“Well that’s perfectly alright.” He said. “If it’s that painful, you don’t have to.”

Discord then drank the last of his tea and set the cup and saucer down.

“Well I think it’s about time for me to go.” He said. “I realized I have something to do.”

He then turned his attention to Jackboot.

“It was nice meeting you Jackboot.” He said. “I hope we can spend some time together again at another time.”

“I hope so as well.” Jackboot said, shaking Discord’s hand.

Discord then bit his farewells to Fluttershy and Rarity before disappearing into and another flash of light at the snap of his fingers.

“Well, it looks like it’s time for me to get going as well.” Rarity said as she set her cup and saucer. “I have to cook those quiches for tomorrow’s

picnic. After I get the proper ingredients of course.”

Fluttershy then looked at Jackboot.

“Jackboot, would you like to come to the picnic with us?” She asked. “We’d really like it if you did.”

Jackboot was being invited to picnic? That doesn’t happen that often, if ever.

“Well, I don’t really see why not.” He said. “What should I bring?”

“Oh darling, you don't have to bring anything.” Rarity said. “Unless you want to that is.”

“I think I will bring something.” Jackboot said. “Just not sure what at the moment.”

“Why don’t you come with to the market?” Rarity asked. “Maybe then you’ll find something.”

Jackboot thought for moment. A chance to spend time with a pretty mare? Is that even a question?

“Lead the way Miss Rarity.”

Chapter VI

Current time: 1:02 PM, Saturday

Rarity led Jackboot through the market place of Ponyville. Despite it being the afternoon, it was rather crowded that day. This would’ve intimidated Jackboot, but he didn’t care that point, he wasn’t alone. He was with Rarity, she knew where everything is.

“So, what sort of quiche are you making?” Jackboot asked.

“I am going to make a lovely vegetable quiche.” Rarity answered. “I already have some of the obvious ingredients like milk and flour. But if I’m going to make a great quiche, I need fresh ingredients.”

Jackboot smiled at how determined Rarity was.

“What ingredients do you need?” Jackboot asked. “I can go and find some of them, that way you can get your ingredients faster.”

“Oh darling that’s a great idea.” Rarity said. “Here’s the list.”

Jackboot looked at the list. He saw that the ingredients listed were onions, green bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, tomatoes, dried basil, and Colby jack cheese.

“You go and grab the, onions, basil, and mushrooms, and I’ll grab the rest.” Rarity said. “Meet me over at the tomato stand.” She then handed Jackboot the list. “You take the list; I’ll remember what I’m after.”

Jackboot nodded.

“Okay.” He said. “I’ll see you in a bit.”

Jackboot looked all around the market. He had found the onions and mushrooms, but was having a difficult time finding where he can find the basil. And another thing, he needed a bag. He had no problem using his magic, but he didn’t want to risk dropping anything.

“Basil. Basil.” He said. “Where is the basil?”

As he trotted along, he spotted a familiar red stallion and small filly with a red bow in her hair selling apples.

“Maybe Big Mac has a bag I can borrow.” He said. “Maybe I can grab some apples as well.”

He approached the large stallion as he was helping a customer.

“Good afternoon, Big Mac.” Jackboot said. “Everything going well?”

Big Mac saw Jackboot and answered his question in his usual way.

“Eeyup.”

The red bowed filly trotted up after helping a customer.

“Hi there.” She said. “You’re that pony that helped Big Mac and Applejack, aren’t you?”

“Yes, I am.” Jackboot said. He then extended his hoof. “Jackboot.”

The little filly shook his hoof.

“I’m Applebloom.” She said. “Thanks for helping my brother and sister out. I can’t remember the last time we collected that many apples. I wish I could’ve been there to see it. Anyway, you want some apples?”

“Why yes.” Jackboot said. “I’ll just take a dozen.”

Big Mac then filled a small sack full of twelve apples.

“That’ll be five bits.” The small filly said.

Jackboot’s jaw hit the ground.

“Five bits!?” He asked. “Sweet Celestia that’s cheap! I know where get my apples now.”

Jackboot the handed Applebloom five bits.

“Also, before I go, can I borrow a saddle bag?” He asked. “I came here unprepared.”

“Eeyup.”

Big Mac then went to the front of the wagon and returned with a saddle bag.

“Thank you, Big Mac.”

“Eeyup.”

Jackboot then put on the bag and put all of his items inside of it.

“Thank you very much.” Jackboot said. “I’ll give this to Applejack tomorrow at the picnic.”

“You’re going to the picnic?” Applebloom asked. “My Sis and I are going to bring some fritters. Are you going to bring anything?”

“I think I will. I just don’t know what to…”

Jackboot then took notice of the apples he had just bought.

An idea came to his mind.

“…where can I find sugar around here?”

“Thank you so much for helping me darling.” Rarity said as she and Jackboot trotted along towards her house. “I really appreciate it. For your help you’ll get the first slice of quiche.”

“I appreciate it.” Jackboot said. “And it was no problem whatsoever.”

“What did you get anyway?” Rarity asked, noticing how stuffed the saddle bag was.

“I got sugar, brown sugar, butter…” Jackboot said. “…you’ll see the outcome tomorrow.”

As the two made their way through town, Jackboot caught a glance of Rarity as the sun shown on her.

“So beautiful.” He thought.

The two approached the boutique and saw that somepony was outside of it playing with a cat. That somepony was a white unicorn filly with a mane that was a mix of pale pink and purple.

The filly saw the two approach her.

“Hey Rarity!” She said in a squeaky sounding voice.

“Hello Sweetie Belle.” Rarity said as she approached the filly. “Jackboot, this is my younger sister, Sweetie Belle. Sweetie Belle, this is Jackboot, he’s the stallion I told you about.”

“It’s nice to meet you Jackboot.” Sweetie Belle said.

“And you as well, Sweetie Belle.” Jackboot said with the same polite tone as the filly.

The cat then started brushing against Jackboot’s legs.

“Hello kitty.” Jackboot said.

“Looks like Opal likes you.” Sweetie Belle said. “By the way, you two might want to hold your breath before going in there.”

Rarity grew concerned.

“Why is that?” She asked. “Opal didn’t leave a mess in the house did she?”

“No, I just smell this weird smell.” Sweetie said. “It smelt so bad I had to open all the windows to air it out. That’s why me and Opal are out here.”

Jackboot took interest.

“Can you keep an eye on this?” He asked Sweetie as he handed her the saddle bag. “I’ll be right back. All of you stay out here.”

The two complied and Jackboot trotted into the boutique.

He looked around the inside. It looked the exact the same the first time he was here. He sniffed and detected the obscure smell.

“What is that?”

He then sniffed again and then walked into the back of the room. The smell was growing stronger. He then found the kitchen. The smell was strongest here.

“Okay. Now where are you coming from?”

He then sniffed around the table and the counter and then the cabinets. And then he got to the stove. This time he coughed.

“Oh no!”

He then turned around and darted out kitchen and out of the boutique.

Rarity and Sweetie Belle sat outside, playing with Opal.

“I hope everything is okay in there.” Rarity said. “He’s been in there for a while.”

“I just hope he didn’t pass out from the smell.” Sweetie added. “That smell was pretty strong.”

Before either of them could say something else, Jackboot stumbled out of the front door. Causing his hat to fall onto Opal.

“My goodness Darling, what is it?” Rarity asked surprised with how fast Jackboot got out of the boutique.

Jackboot coughed as he caught his breath.

“You got a gas leak in the kitchen.” He said. He then looked over at Sweetie Belle. “When did you first notice the smell?”

Sweetie thought for a moment.

“What time is it now?” She asked.

Jackboot looked at his watch.

“It’s three minutes after two.” He answered, stilling catching his breath.

“I got home from Sugar Cube Corner a little after one thirty. I remember seeing that the clock said it was one forty five when I decided to go outside, and that was before I opened all the windows I could.”

“Where were you when you first noticed the smell?” Jackboot asked. “Were you upstairs or downstairs?”

“I was upstairs in my room.” Sweetie said. “Is that bad?”

“A little bit. That means the boutique is full of fumes at this point.” Jackboot explained. “Thank Celestia you weren’t thirsty for tea, otherwise the whole boutique could’ve blew up.”

The two sisters looked at one another. Both with a shocked expression on their faces.

“What can we do about it?” Rarity asked.

“First of all, we need to turn the gas off.” Jackboot said, no longing catching his breath. “Do either of you know where the valve is?”

“It’s behind the house last I saw it.” Sweetie said. “I can turn it off.”

“Please do that.” Jackboot said. “I’m going to get back to the castle and grab my tools. While I’m at it, I’ll grab Spike and Twilight.”

It was rather easy for Jackboot to move the stove. It was even easier when he wasn’t breathing in gas fumes, thanks to Twilight who managed to air out all of the fumes. Spike had to wait outside for a couple of minutes because an accidental sneeze or a burp from him would’ve caused the whole boutique to go sky high.

Jackboot gently set the stove down, with the back less than a foot away from the wall.

“Okay.” Jackboot then turned to Spike. “Spike. I want you to get on the counter and look behind the stove.”

“Gotcha!” Spike said as he gave a salute.

Spike then hoped onto the counter top and looked into the space between the stove and the wall.

“Do you see the gas hose?” Jackboot asked.

Spike looked closely.

“Yeah, I see it.” He said giving a thumbs up.

“What do the connectors look like?”

Spike looked very closely at the hose.

“It’s too dark, I can’t see.” He said. “And I don’t want to use my fire breath.”

“Good point.” Jackboot said he then dug into his saddlebag of tools. “I’ll see if I have a flashlight in… …here we go!”

He then produced a flashlight and handed it to Spike. Who clicked it on and shined it on the hose.

“How about now?” Jackboot asked. “Do you see the connectors?”

Spike looked closely, this time he saw what Jackboot asked for.

“Yeah, I see them.” He said. “It doesn’t look like it’s in good shape. It’s a little rusted.”

“Just as I thought.” Jackboot said. “If the connectors are damaged or too loose, they can cause a leak. Looks like Rarity’s stove won’t be operational until she gets new connectors. Speaking of which, which connector is in bad shape? The one on the hose or the one on the stove?”

Spike looked again.

“The stove’s connector.” He said. “Does that make the job harder or easier?”

“A little bit of both.” Jackboot explained. “Either Rarity needs a new stove or she needs a new connector. How about we go ask to see what Rarity wants to do?”

“Sure.”

Spike then clicked off the flashlight and followed Jackboot outside.

The two sisters were outside with Twilight. As the two mares and filly spoke, Jackboot and Spike walked outside.

“So, is everything alright?” Rarity asked.

Jackboot cleared his throat.

“Everything is fine now we know the problem.” He explained. “You see the connector on the stove that connects to the gas hose is worn out. So you either need to a new stove, or a new connector. I’ll let you decide what to do.”

“I know we won’t be able to get a new stove today.” Twilight said. “The store won’t be open until Monday.”

“I won’t be able to make my quiche for tomorrow.” Rarity said sadly. “Guess I’ll grab something from Sugar Cube Corner.”

“Don’t worry Rarity.” Twilight said. “You can use the stove back at the castle.”

“Really?” Rarity asked. “Oh thank you Twilight. I really appreciate it.”

“It’s no problem Rarity.” Twilight said. “You know, since your stove isn’t working, you want to have dinner back at the castle?”

“Most certainly.” Rarity answered joyfully.

“Yay! Dinner at the castle!” Sweetie added with glee.

Chapter VII

Current time: 11:31 AM, Sunday

Jackboot closed the lid of the cast iron container, sealing it shut.

“There we go.” He said. “Now we wait.”

He then turned around and felt his eyes bulge upon seeing the mess he left.

“Now for the part I don’t like. Cleaning.”

He then grabbed a towel and spray bottle of cleaner and began to clean up the sugar and other spilled liquids on the counter and floor.

Twilight entered the kitchen and saw Jackboot cleaning.

“Everything okay in here?” She asked.

Jackboot jumped, tossing the towel into the air, which landed on his horn. He then turned and saw the Princess of Friendship standing there.

“Oh, hello Twilight.” He said as he took the towel off of his horn. “I didn’t hear you come in. And yes, everything is alright. I just got done making what I’m going to bring.”

Twilight looked at the container on the counter. Jackboot had told her and Spike that he had to use the kitchen late in the night before to make whatever it was he’s bringing to the picnic later. She decided not ask what was in the container, because she knew that Jackboot would tell her that she’ll see later.

“Anyway, I’m glad you’re cleaning this up.” She said. “Rarity will be here soon.”

“That’s good.” Jackboot said as he cleaned the last of the spilled liquid. “What’s she coming over here for?”

Twilight was confused. How could he forget that Rarity was coming over?

“She’s coming to cook her quiche since her stove is out of commission.” She said. “Don’t you remember?”

Jackboot’s memory jolted.

“Oh that’s right!” He said, not meaning to be so loud. “I’m sorry, my memory isn’t the best. Ever since I fell off that ladder when I was a colt.”

“Oh right, Spike told me the other day.” Twilight said. “Guess you’re not the only one with bad memory.”

Before either of them could say anything else, they heard Spike calling to them.

“Twilight, Jackboot!” He called. “Rarity’s here!”

Jackboot’s head turned towards the door so fast, his neck actually popped.

Spike entered the kitchen with Rarity in toe. She had a saddle bag with her.

“Hello Twilight, Jackboot.” Rarity said in greeting. “How have you two been today?”

“We’ve been doing well.” Twilight said. “Jackboot just finished making, whatever it is he made.”

“You’ll see what it is later.” Jackboot said. “And I’ll make sure you’ll get the first of it.”

“Why thank you darling.” Rarity said with a smile. “And you’ll get the first slice of quiche, like I promised.”

Rarity’s smile almost made Jackboot melt. How could such a lovely mare not be in some sort of relationship at this point? He wondered.

“You mind if I help?” Jackboot and Spike asked almost in unison.

The two looked at one another, surprised that at that they said the exact same thing.

“Why thank you darlings.” Rarity said joyfully. “My quiche will be done in no time.”

Twilight chuckled.

“I’ll let you three get to work.” She said. “In the meantime I’m going to head over to the picnic spot and get everything set up. Have fun you three.”

The sun shone high in the sky. A perfect day for a picnic.

Fluttershy and Twilight laid out the picnic blanket on the grass; Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo laid out a plate for each pony that was coming, Rainbow Dash kept Angel Bunny away from the muffins that she had brought while Tank and Owlicious flew around above, and Pinkie Pie had arrived earlier along with Gummy the Alligator with an arrangement of cookies and cupcakes. Now they were waiting for everypony else.

“Howdy y’all!”

They all turned and saw Applejack trotting over to them along with Applebloom and Big Mac with Winona tailing behind them. Bic Mac had a wrapped plate of apple fritters on his back with Applejack carrying a large pitcher of apple cider while Applebloom carried enough cups for everyone.

“What’s up Applejack?” Rainbow asked as she pushed Angel Bunny away from the basket of muffins. Before Applejack could respond, Rainbow immediately saw the pitcher of cider on her back. “Is that…?”

“Eeyup.” Big Mac said, knowing what Rainbow Dash was asking.

“Yep, it’s cider.” Applejack said with a chuckle. “You want some?”

“As much I want some, I promised Jackboot that he’d get the first glass.” Rainbow said as Applejack set the pitcher. “So I can wait.”

Big Mac set down the plate of apple fritters as Applebloom caught side of two familiar ponies and a dragon.

“Hey, there they are!”

Jackboot waved over at the others while carrying the metal container. Spike carried the platter which contained Rarity’s quiche while Rarity trotted along while wearing a white sun hat.

“Hello darlings!” She said as she and the boys approached. “How is everypony?”

“We’re doing well.” Fluttershy answered. “Sweetie Belle told me about the gas leak at your house. Is everything okay now?”

“Everything is fine now, thankfully.” Jackboot explained as he and Rarity set their food down on the blanket. “She just needs either a new connecter on her stove or a new stove in general. Either way she won’t be cooking anything until the store opens.”

He then turned to Sweetie Belle.

“How have you been, Sweetie?” He asked. “Have you been breathing well?”

“I’ve been doing okay.” Sweetie answered.

“That’s good, very good.” Jackboot said. “And how about Opal, is she okay?”

His question was followed by Opal rubbing against his leg.

“I’ll take that as a yes.” He said as he petted the white feline.

“Now with stoves and breathing aside…” Rarity said. “…how about we get to eating?”

“Don’t have to tell us twice.” Rainbow dash said as she grabbed a muffin and took a big bite out of it. “Here Jackboot.” She then tossed Jackboot one of the muffins.

Everypony was silent while eating. Jackboot had gotten the first glass of cider and the first slice of quiche as promised. The quiche was very good and the cider was perfect. The muffins, fritters, and the sweets Pinkie had brought were just as delicious.

As they all ate, Scootaloo took notice of the iron container that Jackboot had brought.

“Hey Jackboot.” She said. “Watcha got in that box?”

Jackboot swallowed the last of his fritter.

“I’m glad that you asked.”

Jackboot then took the iron container in hoof and undid the metal snaps and removed the lid. Revealing a very enticing treat within.

“Is that a pie?” Scootaloo asked.

“A caramel apple pie, yes.” Jackboot said. “I spend the lot of last night cooking it. I think there’s enough for everypony. I hope so anyway. Rarity you mind if I borrow the knife you used on your quiche?”

“Of course, darling.” Rarity said delightfully.

That word again made Jackboot almost melt.

He thanked Rarity for the blade and cut into the delectable desert.

“Who would like to have the first slice?”

It didn’t take long, but everypony got a slice of Jackboot’s desert, of which was highly received. But there was one small issue; Jackboot himself did not get a slice of his own pie.

Rarity was the first to notice this.

“Oh darling you didn’t get a piece.” She said. She then took her knife and cut her piece in half. “Here, have half of mine.”

“Oh, that’s alright, Rarity.” Jackboot said. “You don’t have to. I’ll get one next time.”

“Oh please, darling.” She said. “You slaved over that stove making this pie so you deserve a piece. After all, what sort of friend would I be if I didn’t at least?”

That word again. But Jackboot’s thoughts on that disappeared upon seeing Rarity giving him a warm smile as she slid the piece of pie onto his plate. The sunlight shown onto white mare, making her look absolutely beautiful, and the sun hat most certainly helped.

“T-thank you, Rarity.”

The friends were outside for the remainder of the day. Whether they were playing with the animals, eating whatever was left over or just having a simple conversation, time flew by as it was almost four in the afternoon.

Despite this, Jackboot barely said a word as he only listened to what everypony else had to say.

“My goodness, look at the time.” Rarity said looking at her watch. “I must get back to the boutique. I just realized I need finish that dress.” She then turned toward he younger sister. “Sweetie Belle, would you like to come with me or stay and play?”

“I’ll stay here and play.” Sweetie Belle said. “Are we going to have dinner at the castle again?”

“I don’t see a problem with that.” Twilight said. “That is, if we’re still hungry after all of this food. Especially after that pie Jackboot made.”

“That was an awesome pie by the way!” Rainbow Dash said as she hovered with her belly up.

“I second that!” Applejack said.

“Eeyup.” Big Mac added.

“Really? Was it that good?” Jackboot asked.

“Well of course it was.” Scootaloo said. “Where did you learn to make that anyway?”

“I learned the recipe from a classmate back in Canterlot.” Jackboot explained. “I think her name was Frosted Cookie, if I’m remembering correctly.”

“By the way, Jackboot.” Rarity said. “The six of us are going to have a meeting about the Celebration. Are you going to be there?” She asked.

“I will, yes.” Jackboot said. “After all, I was sent here to help with it.”

Chapter VIII

Current time: 10:30 AM, Monday

Jackboot entered the throne room where everypony else was having a pancake breakfast.

“Morning Jackboot!” Spike said from his sport beside Twilight. “Want some pancakes?”

“Love some.” Jackboot answered.

Jackboot sat himself down at a chair that was placed between Applejack and Rarity where a plate a waited him. As he got himself a stack of pancakes, Twilight began to speak.

“Thank you all for coming out this morning.” She said. “As you know, the Summer Sun Celebration is next Friday, which gives us plenty of time to set everything up.”

She then turned to Applejack who had a mouthful of pancake.

“Back in Thursday, I spoke with Applejack about supplying refreshments. Isn’t that right AJ?”

Applejack swallowed her mouthful of food before answering.

“That’s right.” She said. “And thanks to Jackboot, for the first time in so long, we actually have a surplus of picked apples.”

Jackboot blushed as he scratched the back of his neck.

“Which also mean a whole lot of delicious…?”

“Cider?” Everypony said, finishing Rainbow Dash’s question.

“And again, we’ll have a lot of cider for the celebration.” Applejack said. “Not to mention a lot of apple pie, apple fritters, apple turnovers, y’all get the idea.”

“Very good.” Twilight said as she turned her attention to Pinkie Pie. “I assume Sugar Cube Corner will be up to date with refreshments as well?”

“You betcha!” Pinkie pie answered as she planted another stack of pancakes on her plate. “They’ll be enough sugar to send you to the moon!”

“Tell that to Luna.” Jackboot said casually as he poured more syrup onto his pancakes.

There was brief silence that was followed by everypony laughing.

“Whoa dude, shots fired!” Rainbow said almost spitting out her orange juice.

“Darling you’re terrible!” Rarity snickered.

Jackboot shrugged as he chuckled at his own joke.

After a full minute, everyone calmed down.

“Please don’t tell Luna I said that.” Jackboot said as he wiped some syrup from his cheek. “Anyway, you were saying, Twilight?”

Twilight cleared her throat, but not before one last chuckle.

“So Pinkie, everything okay for the Celebration?” She asked.

“Yeah, everything’s good.” The pink mare said.

Twilight then turned to Rainbow who was pouring herself more juice.

“I don’t even have to ask about the weather for that day.”

Rainbow gave a smile and a nod as she sipped her juice.

“And Fluttershy, I have no doubt that you’ll keep the moles from tunneling under Ponyville today.”

“They’re more energetic than usual this time of year.” Fluttershy said. “Either way, they’ll be fine this coming Friday.”

“And Rarity, what sort of decorations do you plan on using this year?”

“I’m going to go for dark blue and black for Luna, and yellow and orange for Celestia.” Rarity answered. “A bit symbolic don’t you think?”

“I think it’s a great idea!” Spike said.

“I find it an attractive idea as well.” Jackboot said.

“Why thank you boys.” Rarity said. “Didn’t realize that it was going to be that well received.”

“What are you going to do Twilight?” Pinkie asked.

“Making sure everything else goes okay.” Twilight answered. “Essentially make sure no monster comes and ruins everything.”

That was followed by a quick chuckle from everyone.

“Do you have anything in mind Jackboot?” Spike asked after swallowing the last of his pancakes.

“Yeah, watcha going to bring to the table?” Rainbow Dash asked.

Jackboot thought for a moment.

“What sort of thing do you usually have at a Celebration?” He asked. “Well, other than live music and food. Because I’ve been thinking of something different.”

“Watcha got in mind, Sugercube?” Applejack asked with interest.

“I don’t know yet.” Jackboot said. “All I know is that it’s got something new and original. Something…”

Suddenly, a something sparked in Jackboot’s mind, as if the hammer of his cutie mark suddenly leaped off of his flank and hit him in the head.

“Wait, I think I know something.” He then got out of his chair. “I’ll be right back.”

Jackboot then ran out of the throne room, leaving everypony curious.

Jackboot then ran back into the room with what looked like a book.

“I’ve actually brought it with me!” He shouted.

“What is it?” Rainbow asked as she hovered out of her throne.

Jackboot sat down in his chair and plopped the book down and opened it.

“These are my designs from when I was a colt.” He said as he turned through the pages of sketches. “A bunch of my designs never became anything.” He then stopped on one particular page. “With the exception of this one.”

“Electric Pentagon.” Twilight said, reading the name aloud.

“What is this supposed to be?” Spike asked.

“This is supposed to be the ultimate light show.” Jackboot said. “This is essentially how I got my cutie mark.”

“That’s incredible!” Rainbow Dash said, hovering above the table. “You actually built this?”

“Well with my father’s help of course.” Jackboot answered. Suddenly his face slowly went from smile to frown which was followed by a sigh. “It’s just too bad this is how he died.”

Many years ago...

Iron Girder slammed shut the door of the Electric Pentagon’s core module. He was in a clearing outside of Canterlot. The dark gray stallion

wiped the sweat from his short black mane. He wore a dark brown vest which contained his pocket watch.

“Jackboot, how are the other modules?” He called over to the wagon.

A small light gray colt came out from behind the wagon carrying one of the smaller modules with his magic.

“Ready for action!” The little colt said as he trotted over.

“Good.” Iron said. “Now set it eight feet away from the module.”

Jackboot did so before returning to the cart for a second one. After several minutes, all five of the modules were placed in their proper positions.

“How do you feel son?” Iron asked. “Are you nervous?”

“A little.” Jackboot said.

Iron patted his son on the back.

“Don’t worry son, I have all the faith in the world in you.” He said. “After all, you made it this far, so what’s going to stop you now?”

Jackboot smiled and nodded.

“You’re right!”

“Now get suited up. Fancy Pants and his entourage will be here soon.”

Several minutes after Jackboot disappeared behind the wagon, Iron heard somepony calling over to him.

“Hello Mr. Iron.”

Iron turned and saw a familiarly dressed stallion followed by several other ponies.

“Hello Fancy Pants!” Iron called in return.

The entourage stopped as Fancy Pants introduced everypony. These ponies included, Sliver Frames, Swan Song, and Golden Gavel.

Jackboot appeared from behind the wagon in a full body rubber suit, a pair of boots, and a pair of goggles on his forehead.

“I presume this little colt is the pony of the hour?” Silver Frames asked.

Iron turned his head towards his son.

“Yes it is.” He said. “Jackboot, come say hello.”

The small colt approached the adults.

“Hello young pony.” Fancy Pants said. “It is a pleasure to meet you.”

Jackboot shook the adult unicorn’s hand.

“And you as well, sir.” He said. “I see a lot of ponies came out to see this.”

“Well of course.” Swan Song said. “How could we not after hearing about what this…”

She then looked over at the pentagon.

“…whatever this device is.”

“Why don’t you explain what the Electric Pentagon is, Jackboot?” Iron asked.

Jackboot nodded.

“Would you all follow me please?”

Everypony followed Jackboot to the pentagon.

“As my father said, this is the Electric Pentagon.” Jackboot said. “This is pretty much a light show. As you see, there are five smaller modules surrounded the center one. Each one has a certain colored crystal, a command crystal, and a tube of twittermites. The center one on the other hand, has each of the colored crystals; these colors include red, blue, yellow, green, and pink, and a command crystal which is stationed above a larger crystal.”

Golden Gavel raised his hoof.

“Yes sir?”

“What sort of crystal is the large one?” Golden Gavel asked.

“It’s called a black crystal.” Jackboot explained. “We had to go far and wide for this one crystal. And speaking of the crystals, they all have to be the same shape and the same weight as well. From what father and I discovered, when you combine twittermites with the command crystals, it creates a charge; the required charge depends on the amount of twittermites that are in the tube. Does that answer your question?”

“It does, thank you.” Golden Gavel said with a nodded.

“Speaking of twittermites.”

Jackboot then walked over to the central module and opened it, revealing a total of five tubes of twittermites, all positioned on what looked like a rotating platform in a circle. He then picked up a tube of the twittermites and presented them for everypony to see.

“These are twittermites.” Jackboot explained. “You, see they can get pretty annoyed easily. And when they get annoyed, they charge up so they can zap whatever it is that’s annoying them. The crystals absorb the electrical charge, and then the command crystals transfer this charge to the outer modules, which agitate the twittermites in them.”

Golden Frames raised her hoof with a question.

“Yes, ma’am, what is your question?” Jackboot asked.

“How exactly do the lights go on and off?” She asked. “Is there a switch mechanism?”

“That’s a very good question, ma’am.” Jackboot said. “You see, this device can only be operated by unicorns. You see, when one causes the turntable the twittermites are on to turn, the twittermites start to charge up. The faster the rotation, the higher the charge. And once the black crystal absorbs enough charge, it creates a telepathic link between the user and the device. That’s when the colored crystals come into play. You see, much like with teleportation, you can teleport to a certain location, once you have a good image of that location. But when it comes to the device, you can create any image you want by getting a good look of what you want to make. Whether it is a tea cup, a flower, or a pony if you wish.”

Jackboot then paused to see if anypony else had any questions.

“Now, would anypony like to see this in action, or listen to me talk all night?”

“Before you begin the demonstration, Iron had told me earlier that you had gained your cutie mark during the test run of this.” Fancy Pants said. “Is that true?”

“Indeed it is true, sir.” Jackboot said. “I’d show you, but I would have to put this suit back on.”

“Very well.” Fancy Pants said. “Anyway, I assume you want us to stand back?”

“If you please” Jackboot said. “This electricity is no joke.”

(Cut)

Iron and the guests were stood about twenty feet away from the cart. Iron and Jackboot had told them that it was best if they stood that far away.

Jackboot put his goggles on, and began the demonstration. He used his magic to turn the tubes inside the core module. The light from the glass dome had shown how much charge was being created. After thirty seconds, Jackboot was now linked with the black crystal. He then began to think of images to create with the crystals. The first image he created was a rabbit. The second a tea cup. The third a bird.

“Your son is amazing.” Swan Song said to Iron.

“I knew he could do it.” Iron said. “I couldn’t be more proud of him.”

After several seconds, Golden Gavel got Iron’s attention.

“Iron, I was wondering.” He said. “Shouldn’t his horn be covered as well?”

“It doesn’t have to.” Iron said. “Why do you ask?”

“I was wondering because his horn is the only thing not covered in rubber.” Golden said. “And I don’t know that much about electricity that you two know, but wouldn’t it backfire if the charge gets too high?”

It suddenly hit Iron in the back of the head when he saw the light from the core module grew brighter.

“All of you stay here!” He said. “Jackboot, stop!”

(Cut)

Jackboot opened his eyes slowly as he lied down. His body felt like jelly in some places.

“Where…?”

“Easy there.” Somepony said.

He looked up and saw Swan Song sat down beside him.

“You were out for a while now.” She said. “Are you alright?”

Before Jackboot could answer, he looked over and saw his father lying down on the ground, with Golden Gavel and Silver Frames standing in front of him.

“Father…?”

Jackboot then stood up.

“Jackboot, I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Fancy Pants said with alarm.

Jackboot ignored him and got passed the two adults.

“Father, are you okay?”

There was no answer.

“Father?”

No answer.

“Papa…?"

The throne room was dead quiet after hearing Jackboot’s story.

“Oh my…” Fluttershy said.

“Jackboot, I’m… …so sorry.” Applejack added.

Rarity wiped tears from her eyes.

Jackboot was quiet as he sat there as a tear went down his cheek.

Suddenly he felt somepony pull him into a hug. He turned his head saw that it was Pinkie Pie who had tears in her eyes.

“I’m so sorry Jacky.” She said.

“You didn’t have to explain what happened.” Twilight added.

Jackboot sniffed.

“No” He said. “It’s alright. I would’ve ended up telling that story eventually.”

He then noticed how quiet the room had become.

“Don’t let my story dampen the mood.” He said as he wiped a tear from his eye. He then took another bite of his pancakes. “These are very good pancakes by the way.”

Everypony else understood that Jackboot didn’t want to continue on with this matter, and focused their attention back on the pancakes, with the exception of Pinkie who was still latched onto him.

“You can let go of me now, Pinkie.” He said. “I think those pancakes of yours aren’t going to eat themselves.”

“Are you sure?” Pinkie asked.

Jackboot nodded.

“If they did eat themselves, I think you’d have a problem on your hooves.”

Pinkie chuckled.

“That would be a problem.”

She then gently let go of him.

As Pinkie walked back to her seat, Jackboot stared down at his notebook, more specifically at the design on the page.

Suddenly a spark went off in his brain.

“I will make you proud papa!” He shouted, accidently aloud.

He then jumped out of his seat.

“Pardon me everypony but I got work to do!”

Chapter IX

Current Time: 12:11 PM, Tuesday

Twilight and Spike approached the building on the edge of town which had a sign that bore an image of an anvil.

“You really think he’s in there?” Spike asked.

“That’s what Mayor Mare said.” Twilight answered. “I hope he’s okay. You told me the last time you saw him, it was when you two installed Rarity’s new stove this morning. How’d that go by the way?”

“It went well.” Spike said. “We didn’t explode.”

Twilight chuckled as the two approached the door of the building. She then knocked on the door.

“Jackboot, are you in there?” She called. “It’s Twilight and Spike!”

There was no answer.

“Jackboot!”

Still no answer.

“Oh no.” Twilight said. “I think something might be wrong.”

“Try knocking again.” Spike said. “Maybe he’s taking a nap.”

Twilight knocked again, harder this time.

Still no answer.

“He must’ve passed out from all that work he’s been doing!” Twilight said in a panic.

She then grabbed Spike and moved away from the building.

“Stay back I’m going to knock the door down!”

She then began to charge up her horn.

“Hello Twilight.”

Twilight jumped, letting go off the charge, sending it straight up into the air, not hitting anything, thankfully.

Twilight and Spike turned and saw Jackboot standing there carrying a large brown paper bag.

He looked up at the sky before talking to the alicorn and dragon before him.

“How are you two today?” He asked casually. He also looked rather tired.

“We were about to ask you the same thing.” Twilight said. “Are you alright? We haven’t seen you since this morning.”

“Of course I’m alright.” Jackboot said as he approached the door of the building. He took a key out of his pocket and unlocked the door. “Care to come in?”

Twilight and Spike followed Jackboot into the building. They first found themselves in what appeared to be a waiting room and then through a door which lead into the workroom.

“Welcome to the Ponyville Metal Shop.” Jackboot said as he set the bag down on a work bench.

Twilight looked at around the large room. First at the anvil at the center of the room, at the fiery forge, and then at the workbench that had pieces of metal and other tools.

“The Mayor let you work in here?” She asked.

“Yeah, she told me that the previous blacksmith retired recently.” Jackboot explained as he took several boxes of rivets. “So, my being here is actually doing the town a favor.”

“Have you gotten any customers yet?” Spike asked.

“Nope.” Jackboot said as he crumpled up the bag and tossed it into the forge. “No pony.”

Twilight looked over at something covered in a tarp.

“What’s that?” She asked.

“What’s what?”

Jackboot looked over at what Twilight was pointing at.

“Oh yes!”

He then trotted over to the tarp and pulled it off. Revealing a familiar looking contraption.

“Presenting, the outer module of the Electric Pentagon!” Jackboot said proudly. “To be completed.”

The module looked just like the picture, with the exception of the glass dome.

“You spend the past couple days working on this?” Twilight asked.

“I have, yes.” Jackboot explained. “I got the frame completed; all I need to do is get the inner workings completed and get a glass dome.”

“Where are you going to get these domes?” Spike asked. “Do you make glass as well?”

“Glass making is one of the skills I actually lack.” Jackboot explained. “So I would have to special order these domes. With these domes being made of special glass and with one of them being a different size, combined with the shipping cost, it’ll cost me some bits. So with this metal shop now officially reopened at this point, I’ll be able to make said bits.”

“The other day you said your mom is pretty rich from her business in Canterlot.” Spike said. “Can’t you ask her?”

“Well, it’s not that I’m desperate for bits. I just don’t have enough at the moment”

Before Jackboot could explain more, they all heard the sound of a bell ringing.

“A customer!” Jackboot said.

He then trotted out to the front counter, where he found a familiar pink mare.

“Jacky!” Pinkie Pie said with glee. “So this is where you were hiding.”

“Well, here I am.” Jackboot said. “Do you need something?”

Pinkie Pie then reached down and pulled a baking tray, a pot, and a pan almost out of nowhere.

Jackboot was surprised by how dented the baking utensils.

“What happened?” He asked as he examined the dented pan.

“Well, one of the shelves back at Sugar Cube Corner popped loose and a bunch of stuff fell.” Pinkie explained. “These got dented and everything, sooooo… …yeah.”

Jackboot looked at each of the dented objects.

“I’ll see what I can do.” He said. “Feel free to wait out here.”

“Okie dokie!” Pinkie said.

Jackboot returned to the workroom with the cookware.

“You want us to leave?” Twilight asked.

“You don’t have to.” Jackboot said. “I actually want you to watch this.

He first set the tray onto the anvil and took hold of a straight-peen hammer.

“We’ll be out in the waiting area if you need us.” Twilight said.

“Actually I’m going to stay and watch.” Spike said.

“Okay.”

Twilight then left the room, leaving Spike and Jackboot alone in the room.

“I’d cover your ears.” Jackboot said.

Then the loud pounding began.

Several minutes passed since Jackboot began to repair the cookware.

“So the whole shelf just fell?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, one moment I set a pan on it and all of a sudden SMASH!” Pinkie explained. “It made Cupcake jump out of her skin when it happened. I’m just glad Poundcake or Pumpkin were upstairs instead of down stairs when it happened. It makes me sad to see them cry.”

Jackboot walked out from the backroom with Spike.

“Man, it’s loud in there.” Spike said.

“I told you to cover your ears.” Jackboot said as he set the cookware on the counter.

“Ah sweet!” Pinkie said as she hopped over to the counter. “How much do I owe you?”

Jackboot looked around the room.

“Didn’t I have a scale out here?” He asked.

“Oh, I saw it in the back.” Spike said. “I’ll grab it.”

Spike disappeared into the backroom and returned with a large scale.

“Thank you.”

Jackboot then set it onto the counter.

“What do you need a scale for?” Pinkie asked.

“It’s to see how much you owe me.” Jackboot explained as he put the cookware onto the scale. “This is a system my father came up with. You see, depending how much these items weigh as a whole, that’ll show much bits you have to pay. Example, let’s say the item I repaired is a pound, you pay, two bits. If it weighs less than that a pound, you pay one bit.”

Jackboot then looked over at the scale.

“In this case, your items altogether are a total of five pounds. So you owe me ten bits.”

“Okie dokie!”

Pinkie then produced ten bits and placed them on the counter.

“Thanks Jacky!” She said. “I’ll see you later!”

Pinkie Pie then cheerfully hopped out of the shop.

Jackboot then put the bits into a jar.

“Ten bits down. Three hundred and ninety bits to go.”

“Whoa, it’s that expensive?” Spike asked.

“Well it’s a special kind of glass.” Jackboot explained. “And combined with the shipping costs, yes, it’s that expensive. So I have a lot of work to do. As if making the rest of the Pentagon’s modules aren’t enough work.”

“Why don’t you just duplicate the one you already made?” Twilight asked. “I think I can find a good duplication spell and…”

“As much of a good idea that is…” Jackboot said. “…it’s out of the question. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate you trying to make it easy for me, but duplicating it would be cheating.”

Jackboot then chuckled.

“Besides, where’s the fun in taking the easy way?”

Twilight smiled.

“I understand Jackboot.” She said. “Although I think things would go easier if you got some help around here.”

“Yeah, you can post some posters around town to advertise your business.” Spike said. “I can grab some paper and pencils and we can get started.”

“Thank you Spike. Both of you.” Jackboot said. “I appreciate it.”

Chapter X

Current time: 11:01 AM, Thursday

“Okay, that’ll be twelve bits, Miss…” Jackboot said to the gray mare in front of him. He had just finished repairing her mailbox. “…what was your name again?”

The cockeyed pegasus didn’t answer. Instead, she planted bits onto the counter.

As Jackboot thanked the mare and gathered the bits, the mare suddenly produced a muffin in her hooves.

“Muffin?” She asked.

Jackboot wasn’t expecting anything else other than bits.

“Oh…” He said. “…thank you.”

He then accepted the muffin and the mare left, giving Jackboot a smile before walking out.

“Nice mare.”

Jackboot took a bite out of the muffin as he dropped the nits into the jar. Since Tuesday, he had gained a total of eighty nine bits. He still had a long way to go in order to gain the glass domes he needs for the Electric Pentagon.

“This is a good muffin.” He said before taking another bite out of the muffin.

As he finished the muffin, he returned to the workroom where under a tarp in the corner of the room were two of the outer modules of the Pentagon. He had finished the second one earlier that day, and had just gotten started on the third when that gray mail mare came in.

“Alright. Back to the work.”

He picked up a piece of metal and was about to bend it to make it into one of the panels for the module, when somepony out front rang the bell.

“Hello?” That somepony said. “Is a Mr. Jackboot here?”

Jackboot sighed and put the metal onto the anvil.

“Coming!”

Jackboot walked through the door and saw a blue earth pony standing at the counter with his back turned.

“Can I help you, sir?”

The stallion turned around. He had a very short gray mane, a scruffy tail of the same color, yellow eyes, and a cutie mark that consisted of a pencil drawing a line.

“You must be Jackboot.” The older stallion said as he extended his hoof in greeting. “My name is Blue Collar. I’m the building owner.”

Jackboot shook Blue Collar’s hoof.

“Nice to meet you.” He said. “What can I help you with?”

“Well, I saw that help wanted sign you have over at town hall.” Blue Collar asked. “So I got somepony for the job.”

Jackboot was surprised. Somepony wants a job?

Blue Collar looked over his shoulder and saw somepony coming.

“Here he comes.” He said. “Ballpin in here!”

Jackboot couldn’t see who Blue Collar was talking to, until that somepony walked through the door.

The pony was a pure white unicorn stallion, with a short blonde mane; a blonde tail cut short, violet eyes, and wore a red handkerchief around his neck.

“This is Ballpin, my grandson.” Blue Collar said. “Ballpin, meet your new work partner.”

Jackboot walked from behind the counter.

“Nice to meet you Ballpin.” He said as he extended his hood in greeting. “I’m Jackboot.”

The white stallion flinched when Jackboot stuck out his hoof. This took Jackboot by surprise. Was this stallion that timid?

The stallion then finally shook Jackboot’s hoof.

“I-it’s n-nice to m-meet you.” He said with a quiet stammer.

Jackboot then noticed his cutie mark. A ball pin hammer. A good sign, Jackboot thought.

“Since you had taken this job, I presume your good with metal?” He asked.

Ballpin answered with smile and a nod.

“That’s good, very good.”

Jackboot then thought of an idea.

“Follow me.” He said. “Let’s see what you can do.”

Ballpin and Blue Collar followed Jackboot into the workroom. He then took the piece of metal he was working with before and bent piece in half.

“Can you make this straight again?”

Ballpin the nodded.

“Then I’ll let you get to it.”

Jackboot then back away from the anvil.

Ballpin picked up the metal with his magic. He thought about how he was going to do this. An idea came to mind. He took the metal and brought it over to the forge and placed it into the fire. After several minutes, the metal began to glow hot. After allowing the metal glow hot, Ballpin then took the metal to the anvil and picked up a straight pin hammer. He took the hammer and bent the metal straight and pounded the crease until the metal was flat. He then took the metal and quickly put it into the vat of water, instantly cooling the metal.

Jackboot then looked at the repaired piece of metal and saw that it looked the exact same as it did before it he bent it.

“Ballpin…”

Jackboot then approached the newcomer and put his hoof onto this shoulder, causing him to flinch.

“…welcome to the Ponyville Metal Shop.”

Ballpin produced a gentle smile.

“I-I’m…” He took a breath. “…I’m glad to be of s-service.”

He then shook Jackboot’s hand.

Blue Collar chuckled.

“You two will get a long perfectly.” He said. He then looked over at the front counter. “What do you do when you get a customer?”

Jackboot looked over at Blue Collar.

“Well usually I head out and see who it is, obviously.” He answered.

“What if you’re in the middle of repairing something?” Blue Collar asked. “Wait, don’t tell me. You stop what you’re doing. That doesn’t seem very resourceful.”

Jackboot caught onto what Blue Collar was saying.

“You want to work front counter don’t you?”

“Well, it would increase your productivity immensely. Especially since you got a new partner.” Blue Collar explained as he gave his grandson a wink. “After all, an old stallion like me doesn’t have that much else to do.”

Jackboot thought for a moment. He had a partner for the workroom and now somepony to watch the front counter. How could he say no to that?

“Blue Collar, you got a deal.”

The two stallions then shook on it.

Suddenly there was a ring at the front.

“I’ll see who it is.” Blue Collar said.

“Let’s get to work.” Jackboot said. He then turned to Ballpin. “You ready?”

Ballpin nodded.

“L-let’s do it.”

Almost two hours had passed since the three stallions got to work. After fixing and forging several items from cookware to ventilation grates, Jackboot’s Dome jar had increased to one hundred and nine bits. Not only did he get several bits closer to his goal, he also got to know Ballpin a little more. Ballpin had similar upbringing as Jackboot. But, unlike Jackboot, Ballpin was much more timid than he was.

Jackboot and Ballpin were now almost finished with the third outer module.

“Y-you made th-those other two by yourself?” Ballpin asked as Jackboot set the module in the corner along with the other two modules.

“Yes I did.” Jackboot answered as he covered the modules with the tarp. “Took me a while. I got started on Monday. I need to make a total of five of these plus a large core module.”

Blue Collar poked his head into the workroom.

“Jackboot, there’s a lovely young mare here to see you.”

Jackboot turned his head so fast, his neck made a loud pop.

“Ow.” He said, feeling the immense pop. He then realized what Blue Collar said. “A lovely young mare? I’ll be right up.”

Jackboot trotted through the doorway to the front counter, only to screech to a halt upon seeing who was speaking to Blue Collar.

“Jackboot, darling!” She said upon seeing him. “So this is where you hiding.”

Jackboot smiled and gave a quiet chuckle.

“Well you found me.” He said. “Is there something you need fixing?”

“You will not believe this.” Rarity said. “You know that new oven you and Spike installed in my kitchen?”

“Yes, I remember.” Jackboot said. “How is it working, by the way?”

“It’s working like a charm.” Rarity said. “Well, unless it did until the door fell off.”

“You’re joking?”

“I couldn’t believe it either.” Rarity said. “If it’s not too much trouble, could you come over and have a look at it?”

An invite to Rarity’s house? Granted it’s for business reasons, but still.

“Of course, Rarity.” Jackboot finally said. “I’ll grab my tools.”

Jackboot trotted into the workroom, right passed Ballpin. As he put on the saddlebag full of tools, he got Ballpin’s attention.

“Ballpin, I got to go make a house call.” He said. “Can you handle everything while I’m gone?”

“Where are you g-going?” Ballpin asked.

“This mare’s stove door fell off.”

“Oh.” Ballpin said understandingly. “Well h-have fun.”

“I’ll be back later.”

Jackboot then gave Ballpin a quick smile and then trotted out the door.

Rarity opened the door to the boutique with Jackboot in toe.

“I was working on a dress for a client and all of a sudden, THUD!” She explained.

She led Jackboot into the kitchen where the oven door lay on the floor.

“Let’s see what we have.”

Jackboot set his tool bag down and looked at the door.

“Hmm… …doesn’t look completely broken.” He said. “In fact, it doesn’t look broken at all.”

The screws holding the hinge together were not there, but on the floor.

Jackboot then looked at Rarity, who gave him a wink. And action that almost made him melt. But that feeling went away when a question entered his mind. Did she loosen the door on purpose? But he didn’t want to think about it too hard; he had a job to do.

“So it just fell down like that?” Jackboot asked. He was skeptical about how it happened, but he successfully hid it.

“Like I said, it just wen THUD.” Rarity said.

THUD? It’s hard to believe that a mare like Rarity would use that kind of vocabulary.

Jackboot then looked back at the hinges.

“The screws just need to be put back in their proper places.” He said. He then reached for his screw driver. “Could you hold up the door for me?”

Rarity nodded and used her magic to levitate the door.

“A little more up.” Jackboot said. “A little more. Hold it there, perfect.”

Jackboot then proceeded to screw the screws into their proper places.

“How have you been lately?” Rarity asked. “I’ve barely seen you since Monday.”

“I was just busy.” Jackboot said as he screwed in the last screw. “I just got done making three of the outer modules. Well not by myself anyway.”

“I noticed you gotten some help.” Rarity said as she let go of the door. “I shouldn’t be surprised. After all I did see that help wanted poster down at town hall.”

Jackboot stood up as Rarity closed the oven door.

“Jackboot, I was wondering.” Rarity said. “Have you been doing alright?”

“I have.” Jackboot answered as he turned to her. “Why do you ask?”

“Because the last time I saw you, was when you told to story about how… …well...” Rarity seemed to have trouble saying what she was going to say.

“About when my father passed?” Jackboot said. “And don’t worry, I’m alright. In case you didn’t catch on, that’s why I hesitated when you gave me that gem when we first met.”

“And again, I’m really sorry for your loss.” Rarity said as she put his hoof on Jackboot’s shoulder.

The two exchanged a warm smile.

Suddenly, Rarity’s face lit up.

“Oh, that’s right.” She said. “I’ll be right back darling.”

She then trotted away and up the stairs.

“So beautiful.” Jackboot said.

Suddenly, he put his hoof to his mouth.

“I hope she didn’t hear that.”

Rarity then returned with a purple gem in hoof.

“What’s that for?” Jackboot asked.

“Your tip.” Rarity said.

She then took the gem and put in Jackboot’s vest pocket.

“Thank you Rarity.” He said. “But you didn’t have to do this.”

“But I have to.” Rarity said. “You now run a business, so I need to give you some sort of payment. After all, you can use the gems I gave you for your Electrical whatchamacallit.”

“As much of a good idea that is, but that blue gem you gave me is too small, and this gem right here is the wrong color.” He explained. “But I do appreciate the payment though.”

“Maybe you can sell those gems.” Rarity suggested. “Gems can go for a lot depending on the size and color.”

Jackboot thought for a moment.

“That’s a very good idea.” He said. “But where can I sell these gems?”

“There’s a jewelry store here in Ponyville that can take them.” Rarity said. She then made her for the door. “Follow me Jackboot.”

Suddenly an idea came to his mind.

“Rarity!” He said, unintentionally being loud.

Rarity turned in a hurry.

“What is it sweetness?” She asked with concern.

Jackboot almost forgot to speak as he looked Rarity in her sapphire eyes.

“I was…” He said. “…I was wondering. I haven’t gotten lunch yet; do you want to grab something after we get the gems sold?”

Rarity smiled

“How can I say no to such a sweet offer?”

“There you go ma’am.” Blue Collar said as he handed the headphones to the white mare. “That’ll be ten bits.”

The white unicorn put ten bits on the counter as she put the headphones on her head.

“Have a good day.” Blue Collar said as the mare left the shop.

Blue Collar put the bits into Jackboot’s jar.

“I think that’s…” Blue Collar did the math in his head. “…one hundred and thirty three.”

He suddenly felt his stomach growl.

“Lunch time.”

He then poked his head into the backroom.

“Ballpin, I’m going to grab something to eat.” He said. “You want to come with or do you want to stay and watch the store?”

Ballpin thought for a moment.

“I-I think I’ll just stay here and watch the shop.” Ballpin said. “If that’s okay…”

Blue Collar nodded.

“Sure, alright.” He said. “I’ll bring you back something. Will you be okay here by yourself?”

Ballpin nodded.

“Alright then, I’ll see you in a little bit.”

Chapter XI

“That was very good Jackboot.” Rarity said. “Thank you very much.”

The Rarity and Jackboot left the Clover Café where they had lunch.

“I should be thanking you.” Jackboot said. “I got thirty eight bits out of that sale.”

“How long do you think it’ll take make the Pentagon?” Rarity asked.

Jackboot thought for a moment.

“Well it took me two days at this point to make two of the outer modules.” He explained. “So it’ll take me several more days to complete the next three, and then I have the core module. Then I have to find Twittermites, the proper crystals, and then I have to get the domes. The most difficult part would be the black crystal. It took me and my father I don’t know how long to find the first one.”

“Can’t you just use the previous one, darling?” Rarity asked. “Why do you need a new one?”

“Well the previous one shattered when… …you know.”

Rarity understood.

“Well anyway, I have to get back to work.” Jackboot said.

He then stopped and looked at Rarity.

“If you ever want to come over, please don’t hesitate.”

“Of course, darling.” Rarity said. She then reached out her hooves and pulled Jackboot in a hug. “I’ll see you later, Jackboot.”

“And you as well, Rarity.”

Rarity then gave Jackboot a warm smile and walked away.

As he watched Rarity walk away, Jackboot sighed.

“Such a beautiful mare.”

Ballpin sighed as he sat in the workroom. It seemed that fifteen minutes had passed since his grandfather left to grab some lunch.

“I hope okay he’s.” He said.

He then realized what he had just said.

“I mean, I hope he’s okay.” He corrected himself, with embarrassment in his voice.

He looked around the workroom. As he did so, he saw the notebook on the workbench. It was Jackboot’s notebook. It was opened to the page that had a design that was called the “Electric Pentagon”.

Ballpin picked the notebook up and examined it.

“Such a great design.”

He then turned the page.

“Oh my…”

The next page was a drawing. A drawing of a gray colt hugging a dark gray stallion. Above the image were the words, “I luv you papa”.

Ballpin smiled. Jackboot had told him earlier that his father had long been deceased.

He then looked over at the tarp which covered two of modules. He then looked over at the anvil and then back at the image on the notebook.

“Time to get to work.”

He then set the notebook down and approached then center of the room.

“Okay gentlecolts.” He said aloud. “Let’s get to work.”

“So the hinges weren’t broken?” Blue Collar asked. “The screws were just taken off?”

“Yep, they were.” Jackboot answered. “I must say, if it ended with me spending some time with Rarity, I have no complaints.”

The two had met up after Jackboot was returning from his impromptu lunch with Rarity. Blue Collar had just returned from the Hay Burger with a bag of food.

Blue Collar laughed.

“What’s so funny?” Jackboot asked.

“That little story you told reminded me of a certain somepony I know.” Blue Collar explained. “The same thing happened with him.”

“How did that turn out?”

“How do you think Ballpin came into this world?”

The two stallions then laughed.

“Speaking of Ballpin. I hope I’m not being rude by asking.” Jackboot said. “But is he, well, okay?”

Blue Collar sighed.

“He’s alright, it’s just that he’s a little, well… …slow.” He said. “It’s not that he was born that way, it’s just that he had a pretty bad accident when he was colt.”

“What happened?”

“He was in racing the Ponyville Derby. I remember that day very well.” Blue Collar said. “He asked me to help him build the cart. It was a great cart by the way; we went with a traditional design, Ballpin actually did almost all of the work. Anyway, we were going pretty fast… …a little too fast.”

Blue Collar stopped in his tracks.

“We made this sharp turn and… …well.” He continued. “He slid across the ground pretty fast and banged his head pretty badly on a post. It didn’t help that his helmet was defective.”

Jackboot understood.

“What were the effects of this accident?”

“Well, Ballpin has a tendency to stutter.” Blue Collar explained. “Not only that, he sometimes mixes up his words. Example, if he were to say, ‘Let’s go for a walk’, he would accidentally say, ‘Let’s go walk a for’. It got him a lot of flak from other Colts and Fillies.” Blue Collar then gave a smile. “But other than, that he’s a very dependable stallion to rely on. Give him a job and he’ll get it job, no questions asked.”

“Except to ask on how to do the job, I assume.”

Blue Collar chuckled.

“Yes, that's true.” He said. “Anyway, let’s get back to the shop. Ballpin is probably starving at this point.”

The two stallions entered the shop.

“Ballpin, we’re back!” Jackboot called.

There was no answer.

“Ballpin?”

“Little colt, you there?” Blue Collar asked.

The two stallions looked at one another.

“I hope he’s alright.” Jackboot said. “Let’s go look in the back.”

The two stallions entered the backroom.

“There he is.” Jackboot said, spotting Ballpin with his head down on work table.

Blue Collar approached the young stallion.

“Ballpin, I got lunch.” He said. “Wake up.”

Ballpin stirred.

“Oh, hello Grandpa.” He said. “You’re back.”

“I got lunch, you still hungry?”

Ballpin nodded.

“Jackboot, you want some? I got extra.”

“Not right now.” Jackboot answered. “I’m going to see about the modules.”

He then took hold of the tarp and proceeded to remove it.

“After all, I have a lot of work to…”

Jackboot suddenly went silent.

“Everything okay Jack…?”

Blue Collar saw what made Jackboot go silent. That something were three new outer modules and one new core module.

Jackboot’s jaw was wide open.

“W-where…?”

He was at a loss of words.

He then looked over at Ballpin who had just started his lunch. Jackboot then realized that Ballpin was the only pony here at the shop.

“Ballpin.” He said. “Do you know where these came from?”

Ballpin looked at Jackboot with a mouthful of hay burger. He then swallowed before answering.

“Yeah. I made them.” He answered.

He then returned to his burger, only for Jackboot to grab him and look at him right in the face.

“You made them?!” He asked. “How did do it? You didn’t use duplication, creation, or some other sort of spell?”

Ballpin was surprisingly calm. Mainly because he knew what happened and was not afraid to explain how.

“I used a spell.” He said. “Just not the spells you mentioned.”

Jackboot was confused. If it was a creation or a duplication spell, then what did Ballpin use?

Jackboot then took his hooves off of him.

“In that case, what spell did you use?” He asked.

“Let’s just say it got me some help.”

Jackboot and Blue Collar looked at one another.

“I guess you can say I helped myself.”

Jackboot then put two and two together and let out a loud gasp.

“You don’t mean?”

Ballpin then stood up and trotted to the center of the room.

“Ask them yourself.”

Ballpin’s horn began emitting a bright light, which blinded both Jackboot and Blue Collar, which was followed by the sound of a series of poofs.

The light then faded, and the two stallions found themselves looking at not one, but five Ballpins.

“What do you think?” They all asked at once.

The two stallions looked at each other again.

“Did you make each one from scratch?” He asked.

“Each one.” One of the Ballpins said.

“Although we did have to duplicate the anvil.” Another said.

“After all we couldn’t share the same one.” A third said.

Jackboot looked at the modules and then back at the Ballpins.

“Want to know what I think?” He asked. He then approached one of the Ballpin clones. “My dead line just got much further away!” He then pulled one of the Ballpins into a huge hug. “Thank you!”

“I’m not the real Ballpin.” The Ballpin said. “The real one is right there.”

“Oh, sorry.”

Jackboot the let go of the Ballpin and hugged the real one.

“Thank you so much, Ballpin.” He said. “You’re a good friend.”

There was that word again. But this time, it felt rather good to say it this time.

Chapter XII

Current Time: 12:58 AM, Friday

“Ow!” Jackboot yelped when an apple landed on his head.

He and Ballpin were taking a half day off and were helping Applejack and Big Macintosh with the apple harvest. After Ballpin completed in making all of the Modules for the Electric Pentagon by himself the day before, he and Jackboot became a bit closer as friends.

Applejack approached Jackboot with Ballpin, or one of him, by her side.

“Thank ya again for the help Jackboot.” She said as she glanced at another Ballpin walking by. “Remind me and I’ll send some of the profits to y’all.”

“I appreciate it, Applejack.” Jackboot said as he picked up the bucket of apples. “But you don’t have to.”

“Why shouldn’t I Sugercube?” Applejack asked. “You and Ballpin here have been a great help.”

After two Ballpins passed by, both with buckets of apples, the original noticed that Applejack didn’t seem the least bit concerned.

“H-hey, Applejack.” He said. “Can I-I ask you s-something?”

“Sure Sugercube.” Applejack said as she bucked another tree. “What’s on your mind?”

“I was wondering w-why you don’t seemed to b-bothered by the fact that there’s five of me walking around and that J-Jackboot appearing and reappearing like that.”

Applejack chuckled.

“Well when you’ve been friends with Twilight for as long as I have, these sorts of things don’t surprise me none. Not as much as they used to anyway.”

Ballpin nodded, confirming that he understood before continuing with his work.

Over half an hour had passed since the harvest started.

As they gathered at the cart, they heard a familiar pony calling over to them.

“Hello Darlings!”

They all looked and saw Rarity approaching them.

“Howdy Rarity!” Applejack called over. “What brings y’all here?”

“I came bearing good news.” Rarity said as she stopped in front of the ponies. “I got a letter from Sassy Saddles!”

Jackboot and Ballpin, one of them anyway, looked at one another. Both of them didn’t recognize the name.

“W-who is that?” Ballpin asked.

“She’s the manager of my boutique in Canterlot.” Rarity answered. “And she invited me to a dinner party this Sunday.”

“Good for you Rarity.” Jackboot said. “When are you heading over there?”

“The next train to Canterlot is tomorrow at twelve. Ooh, I’m so excited!”

Jackboot smiled. He liked seeing Rarity happy. The image of her winking at him still lingered in his mind. That wasn’t the only thing that was on his mind, her removing the screws from her oven door still bothered him. Did she like him?

As the ponies talked, Applejack spotted somepony, or two somepony’s approaching.

“Hey you two!” She called.

Everypony else looked and saw that it was the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Well, two of them.

“Howdy sis!” Applebloom said as Sweetie Belle followed behind.

“What are you two doing out of school?” Rarity asked.

“Miss Cheerilee said that her sister was sick so she cut school short today.” Sweetie Belle explained. “She would’ve got a substitute but it was really short notice.”

Applejack looked around.

“Where’s Scootaloo?” She asked. “I thought you three would be zipping over.”

Her question was answered by the sight of a gamboge colored pegasus trotting towards them. She was wearing her purple helmet but she wasn’t on her scooter.

“There you are Scoot.” Applejack said as the filly approached the group. “We were wondering where you were.”

Scootaloo took off her helmet.

“I had a bit of an accident.” She explained.

“What happened?” Jackboot asked. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine.” Scootaloo said. “I was zooming through town on my way here and…”

“…and she ran into me.”

Everypony looked and saw Rainbow Dash flying over to them with the base of Scootaloo’s scooter in one hoof and the handle bars in the other.

“Jeez, did you hit her that hard?” Ballpin asked.

“A little bit…” Scootaloo said with embarrassment.

“It’s cool kid.” Rainbow Dash as she set the pieces of scooter on the ground before walking over to the filly. “I’ve been hit harder.”

Ballpin took a look at the dismantled scooter.

“Want me to fix it?” He asked.

“Would you really?” Scootaloo asked.

“I’m a blacksmith, of course I will.”

Ballpin then looked at his duplicates.

“Can all of you take care of this from here?”

The four Ballpin’s saluted.

“Alright then. Let’s get over to the shop.”

The two Pegasi followed the white Unicorn out of Sweet Apple Acres.

“Now, what else did I come here for?” Rarity asked rhetorically.

Suddenly it came to her.

“Oh of course!” She said. “Jackboot, I was hoping you can help me with something.”

Jackboot smiled upon hearing this. But he then got suspicious. What else did Rarity break?

“What do you want help with?” He asked. “Did something else break?”

“No, thankfully.” Rarity said. “Spike and I are heading over to the gem fields. I remember that you require some crystals, so I’d thought I’d bring you along.”

A double whammy. Spending time with the loveliest mare in all of Equestria and get materials for the Pentagon. How could he say no?

Oh, and hang out with Spike. He hasn’t seen much of the little guy since he got the shop running.

“I don’t see why not.” Jackboot said. “After all I do need the crystals. Especially the command crystals and the black crystal.”

“What if you can’t find these, command crystal or whatever it is?” Applejack asked.

“Then no Pentagon.” Jackboot said. Suddenly and idea came to his mind. “But there is a way to make one.”

“Make one?” Rarity said. “How does one do that?”

“It’s a special procedure. I’ve never done it, and father hasn’t either. The one’s he used he found.”

“What kind of procedure is it?” One of the Ballpins asked.

“It involves making a certain concoction.” Jackboot explained. “I think I have the ingredients written down in my notebook. They’re some pretty unique ingredients and I don’t know that much about potion making or anything like that.”

Suddenly Applebloom spoke up.

“I know somepony who can.” She said. “Zecora can help.”

“Who’s that?” Jackboot asked.

“She lives in the Everfree Forest.” Applebloom explained. “I help make all sorts of potions and all sorts of stuff. I’ll tell you what, meet me at the entrance to the forest over near Fluttershy’s house, We’ll go to Zecora’s from there.”

“Sounds like a plan.”

The workroom of the metal shop was filled with the noise of somepony welding.

That somepony was Ballpin with a welding mask on. He was using the energy from his horn to weld the handle bars back onto the rest of the scooter.

“How hard did she her hit?” Ballpin asked himself, not bothering to correct himself.

He then stopped the welding. He then stood it up to make sure it was perfectly straight.

“Perfect.” He said. “Now to scrap the melted bits off.”

He then took hold of a hammer and pick and began to chip away the melted metal.

As he picked away, he saw Rainbow Dash poked her head in.

“Is it okay if we come in?” She asked.

“By all means.” Ballpin said. “Come in.”

Rainbow Dash then entered the room with Scootaloo in toe.

Scootaloo’s face lit up when she saw that her scooter was fixed.

“My scooter!” She said.

She then ran and gave Ballpin a big and sudden hug.

Ballpin almost dropped his hammer.

“Thank you so much!” Scootaloo said with joy.

“Not a problem.” Ballpin said as he chipped the last of the melted metal away.

He then set the scooter on the floor as Scootaloo let go of him.

“How much do I owe you?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Rainbow you don’t have to pay.” Scootaloo said.

“It’s cool Scoot.” Rainbow said as she rubbed the filly’s mane.

“Let’s get this over to the scale.” Ballpin said as he led the filly and mare into the front room.

Scootaloo then stepped off of the scooter, allowing Ballpin to put the scale.

Blonde stallion eyed the scale carefully.

“You owe me…”

The needle on the scale stopped.

“…its nine pounds, so that means you owe me eighteen bits.”

“No problem.”

Rainbow Dash then planted eighteen bits onto the counter.

“Thank you.” Ballpin said. “Have a good day.”

“Yeah you too.” Rainbow Dash said. “Come on Scoot, let’s go and grab a couple of shakes. Try not to crash into anything.”

“You’re on!” Scootaloo then turned to Ballpin. “Thanks Ballpin, I’ll see you later!”

The two pegasi then raced out of the shop.

Ballpin laughed as he dropped the bits into the jar. The jar had gotten really full lately.

“What do I do now?”

As he stepped into the backroom he heard somepony ring the bell.

“Coming!”

He entered the waiting area and saw the new customer.

“Oh, hello there.” He said to the gray pegasus. “What can I do for you?”

The cockeyed mare held up a shiny toaster, which had really large dents one both sides.

“I just don’t know what went wrong.”

Jackboot and Rarity scanned the ground in front of them with their horns.

He, Rarity, and Spike were all at the fields outside of the Ponyville looking for crystals, or gems as Rarity called them.

“What colors are you looking for Jackboot?” Spike asked.

“I need red, blue, green, yellow, and pink.” Jackboot answered. “I need six of each. And I need six other crystals that are to be command crystals.”

“What about that black crystal, darling?” Rarity asked.

“I don’t know about that one.” Jackboot answered as he followed his horn. “Maybe if Zecora really knows her stuff. Maybe she’ll figure something out.”

Jackboot then saw something glow in the ground in front of him.

“Found some.”

Before Jackboot could start digging, Spike lunged forward onto the ground and began digging, flinging dirt everywhere.

“Here we go!”

Spike then held up several crystals in his claws.

“Good job, Spiky Wikey.” Rarity said causing Spike to almost go into a love sick trance.

Jackboot and Rarity then collected the crystals they needed.

Rarity watched as Jackboot examined each crystal carefully for their color and size.

“Okay, these are perfectly sized, I just need to cut them to a certainly shape.” He explained. “I also need to be sure that each one of these is the same exact weight, otherwise they won’t work.”

He then looked over and saw Spike drooling over the crystals.

He smiled upon seeing this.

“Hey Spike, when I get done cutting down the crystals I’ll give the rejects to you. How does that sound?”

“Will you really?” Spike asked excitingly.

“Of course. What else am I going to do with them?” Jackboot asked as he put the crystals into his saddlebag. “I’d give them to Rarity but I’m pretty sure she has no use for crumpled up bits.”

“Spikey Wikey!” Rarity called over. “I found more!”

Without a word, Spike darted over to the spot Rarity had pointed out and dive head first into the dirt.

“Jackboot come on, there’s more here!”

Chapter XIII

Jackboot and Spike followed Applebloom through The Everfree Forest. The stallion looked around at the surrounding wildlife. He’s been in forests before, but nothing like this. The forests he’s been in at least had more sunlight for one thing.

Spike decided to come and help as Rarity had decided to take a nap after their crystal hunt. Jackboot had the crystals he needed, now he was taking them to Zecora so she can help him turn some of them into the command crystals he needs.

“It’s just a little further.” Applebloom said. “Just stick to the path and y’all will be fine.”

“You seriously come out here by yourself?” Jackboot asked. “Have you ever gotten lost?”

“I did once.” Applebloom said. “Granted it was the first time I came out here to see Zecora.”

As the three trotted along the path, Spike got Jackboot’s attention.

“Hey Jackboot.” He said. “Can I ask you something?”

“Of course.” Jackboot said. “What’s on your mind?”

“Well it’s… …what do you think of everypony?” Spike asked. “You know, Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, you know…”

Jackboot had no trouble answering.

“I like them all.” He said. “I’ve always admired Twilight from the start; I like Applejack’s work ethic, not to mention she’s a good friend to talk to. I like Rainbow Dash’s attitude, Fluttershy is as sweet as she can be, Pinkie Pie is… …well Pinkie Pie; and Rarity...”

Jackboot paused.

“…well, what isn’t there to like about Rarity?” He asked. “She’s friendly, generous, obviously, has a good work ethic like Applejack, and she’s, well…”

He was embarrassed to say at first.

“…she’s just plain pretty. Not just pretty, beautiful.”

This caught Spike’s attention.

“And then, there is you.” Jackboot continued. “You’re loyal to your friends and a hard worker. I like that in a pony. Or well, dragon, if you will.”

Spike’s mood immediately.

“Thanks Jackboot.” He said.

“What about me?” Applebloom asked, listening to their conversation.

“I like your enthusiasm.” Jackboot said. “After all, you and your friends didn’t get a cutie mark for helping other ponies by doing nothing.”

Jackboot was amazed by the inside of Zecora’s hut that resided within a tree. He admired the many masks, jars, bottles, and books around the hut. What really caught his attention was the cauldron in the center of the room. What was inside of it?

Before Jackboot could ponder anymore, he saw a newcomer enter the room. The newcomer was Zecora herself. And what amazed Jackboot more is that Zecora wasn’t a pony, she was a Zebra.

Zecora saw Jackboot and greeted him.

“Jackboot, meet Zecora.” Applebloom said, introducing her friend. “Zecora, meet Jackboot. He was wondering if you could help him with somethin.”

“I will be happy to be of assistance.” Zecora said. “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“Nice to meet you too.” Jackboot said, shaking Zecora’s hoof. “I was hoping if you knew how to make a command crystal. Or in this case, six of them.”

Zecora smiled and nodded.

“You can’t find this practice just anywhere.” She said. “Fortunately for you, I am aware.”

“That’s good, very good.” Jackboot said. “So do you need to perform some sort of spell or something like that?”

“I don’t need to perform any spell, but there is a method I know quite well.” Zecora explained. “This method is a potion that requires ingredients of a certain kind. Thankfully, they are easy to find.”

“Okay then.” Jackboot said thankfully. “Where can we find these ingredients?”

The ground crunched and squished as Jackboot walked along the path. He, Applebloom, and Spike were all tasked in getting five ingredients.

These ingredients he was told to find are poison joke and a certain fungus that can be found in a certain cave.

“Poison Joke.” Jackboot said. “Zecora said that it’s a blue colored flower. Applebloom said that the girls got into a weird situation with it, so I must be careful.”

A question then came to mind.

“Why am I talking to myself?”

He scanned the ground around him and saw something that caught his eye.

“Gotcha!”

He then approached the blue flower and used his magic to pick it up and put it into his saddlebag.

“Perfect.” He said. “Now for the fungus.”

He then proceeded down the path.

“What color did Zecora say it was?”

He then thought for a moment.

“That’s right it’s… …WHAO!”

“Here Spike, I found some the berries!”

Applebloom had found one of the five ingredients, the ingredient being an assortment of different colored berries.

Spike said nothing as Applebloom picked the multicolored fruit.

Applebloom took notice.

“Spike, y’all alright?”

Spike said nothing.

“Spike?”

Applebloom then tapped him on the shoulder.

“Spiiiiiike?” She said. “Helloooo.”

Spike snapped out of it.

“Oh sorry Applebloom.” He said. “I was deep in thought.”

Applebloom understood and picked the last of what she needed.

“Applebloom, can I ask you something?” Spike asked.

“Sure Spike, what is it?”

Spike was hesitant at first but went for it anyway.

“Have you ever, well, liked somepony but was afraid to fully tell her, I mean them, how you really feel?”

Applebloom caught on.

“You mean Rarity right?” She asked.

Spike’s eyes went wide.

“How did you…?”

“It’s pretty obvious.” Applebloom said. “I’m surprised Rarity doesn’t really know.”

Spike was quiet with embarrassment.

“That’s why you ask Jackboot about what he thought about everypony, huh?”

Spike nodded.

“It’s alright Spike, I understand.” Applebloom said. “But, I don’t see a reason why you should feel threatened by him. I mean, I’m pretty sure he knows about your crush on Rarity.”

Spike slowly produced a smile.

“You’re right.” He said. “I shouldn’t assume that he’d ignore how I feel about Rarity.”

“Ow…”

Jackboot rubbed the back of his neck. He had fallen into a hole when he wasn’t paying attention.

He looked up and saw the mouth of the cave like hole as he dusted up his suit jacket.

“How did I not see that?” He asked himself.

He looked around the cave and was amazed by what he saw.

“Maybe that fungus is down here.”

He then lit his horn to light the way.

“One way to find out.”

He trotted down the cave and looked around, shining his horn where he could.

Suddenly, something caught his eye on the wall.

“Is that it?”

He then approached the wall and saw that it was a dark red fungus.

“Dark red of course!”

He then used his hoof to carefully scrap the fungus off of the wall. He then caught the fungus with his magic before it hit the ground and put it in his saddle bag, in the pocket opposite of the one with the poison joke.

“Good, I got what I need.” He said. He then looked around the cave. “Now how do I get out of here?”

He scanned the cave with the light from his horn. As he did so, he caught sight of a light of a different sort, coming from a different part of the cave.

“What is that?”

It suddenly came to him.

“It must be a way out.”

He then trotted over to the source of the light, but was met with rather amazing sight.

“Sweet Celestia…”

What he had found was a cavern, completely filled from the floor to the ceiling, full of crystals of all different shapes, sizes, and colors.

He then walked toward the large stockpile of crystals.

“This is incredible.” He said. “Had I known about this place I would have come here for crystals. But then again, I wouldn’t have spent time with Rarity.”

He then shook his head.

“Right now I need to get back to Zecora.”

He then turned around and saw another passage way.

“This must be it.”

As he trotted towards the passage way, but he was then stopped by, to his shock, a giant green tail which smashed into the ground.

“Just who are you?” A deep, booming voice.

Jackboot slowly turned around and saw the origin of the giant tail. That being a giant green dragon.

Jackboot’s eyes went wide with shock.

“Uh…”

He didn’t know what to say.

“…hello?”

The dragon then put his head closer to Jackboot, staring the stallion down with his giant orange eyes.

“What are you doing in my cave?” He asked. “What did you steal from me?”

Jackboot almost forgot how to speak.

“Well?”

Jackboot then snapped out of it.

“I didn’t steal anything, I swear Mr. Dragon, sir.” He said frantically.

Jackboot was terrified for his life.

The dragon was unconvinced.

“Prove it.” He said. “Empty your pockets.”

Jackboot was still with terror.

“NOW!”

Jackboot then frantically pulled everything from his pockets and his saddlebag. The poison joke, the fungus, his handkerchief, whatever bits he had on him, and finally his watch.

The Dragon eyed the watch greedily.

“I’ll make you a deal, pony.” He said. “You give me that watch, and I’ll let you go unharmed.”

Jackboot was shocked by this demand. Give up his watch? The very watch his father gave him, the same watch he repaired after it was broken, the very watch that he had cherished all of his life since colthood, and this dragon wanted it.

Jackboot picked up the watch.

“No.” He said. “No deal.”

The dragon snorted.

“Give me the watch or you’ll never see day light again!”

“NO!” Jackboot shouted.

The dragon sighed. This stallion was rather stubborn, even with his life on the line.

Suddenly the dragon thought of an idea.

“I’ll tell you what…”

He then reached his claw into his giant pile of treasure and loot.

“…you will trade me the watch for your freedom. And I will give you this as well.”

Before Jackboot could protest, what the dragon had to offer caused his jaw to hit the ground.

That something in the dragon’s claw, was a round crystal that was as black as night.

“That’s, that’s…”

Jackboot was at a loss of words.

“…the black crystal!”

Applebloom led Jackboot and Spike out of the Everfree Forest. Zecora’s potion was successful in turning the crystals into command crystals, a process that didn’t take long at all. The potion turned all of the six crystals completely clear, as opposed to their original color.

“Thank you again for introducing me to Zecora, Applebloom.” Jackboot said. “It was a great help.”

“Now all you need is that black crystal, right?” Spike asked. “You said it’s the most important part.”

Jackboot rubbed the top of his head, which his cap covered.

“Yeah, the most important part…”

The three entered town.

“I’ll see you two later.” Applebloom said. “Good luck on your Pentagon thingy, Jackboot.”

“Thank you.” Jackboot said.

The little filly smiled and left the two.

“So what do you want to do now?” Spike asked.

Before Jackboot could answer, he heard somepony calling his name.

“Jackboot!”

He looked around and saw no pony, other than the passersby.

“Did you hear that?”

Before Spike could answer, they heard Jackboot’s name again.

“I heard it that time.” Spike said.

The dragon then looked up and spotted something rocketing towards them.

“Look out!”

Spike then rammed in Jackboot, knocking him out of the way, which was followed by whatever it was coming at them crashing into the ground.

“Ouch…”

Spike and Jackboot saw that it was none other than Ballpin and rather familiar gray mare.

Before Jackboot could say hello, he realized that his hat had fallen off.

He looked and saw it on the ground and rushed over to it and put it on his head.

“You two okay?” Spike asked Ballpin and the pegasus.

That’s right, his co-worker and the local mail pony just crashed.

“Yeah, we’re okay.” Ballpin said as he adjusted his handkerchief. He then turned to the mail mare. “Are you okay, Derpy?”

The gray mare nodded.

“Sorry about that.” She said. “I just don’t know what went wrong.”

Ballpin then turned his attention to Jackboot.

“Right.” He said. “Jackboot, I got great news!”

“Since you two flew to us, it must be great news.”

Ballpin turned to Derpy.

“You want to do the honors?”

Derpy nodded.

“I dropped my toaster so I went to get it fixed at your shop.” She explained. “So when Bally fixed it, I paid him twenty two bits for it.”

“Good job Ballpin.” Jackboot said. Before he returned his attention to Derpy, he realized what she had just called him. “Did you just call him Bally?”

“Jackboot, you reached your goal!” Ballpin said. “You can get your domes!”

Jackboot took a moment for his brain to calculate what Ballpin just said before his jaw hit the ground.

“I can get my domes.” He said. “I CAN GET MY DOMES! YES!”

He then turned to Derpy and hugged her.

“Thank you so much Miss Derpy!”

Chapter XIV

Current Time: 3:31 PM, Saturday

“Ooh, Jackboot look we’re here, we’re here!” Rarity said excitingly. “It’s Canterlot, we’re in Canterlot!”

Jackboot had reached his four hundred bit goal the day before thanks to the dented toaster of a certain mail mare. With Rarity going to Canterlot and the glass domes being made at the city’s glassworks, Jackboot saw an opportunity to tag along. Not only he could avoid the large shipping cost, he could say hello to his mother and Celestia, and also, spend time with Rarity.

The train came to a screeching halt at the station.

“Canterlot!” The conductor shouted. “All out for Canterlot!”

“Come Jackboot let’s go!” Rarity said tugging at Jackboot’s hoof.

Jackboot laughed.

“I’m coming.”

He then grabbed his suitcase and followed the mare off of the train and onto the platform.

“You said that you were staying at the Castle, right?”

“Oh of course.” Rarity said. “In the royal suite.”

“Really?” Jackboot asked. “Well, I hope you like the new chandelier, because I was the one that installed it a couple days before I arrived to Ponyville.”

“Where are you staying at, darling?”

Jackboot thought for a moment.

“Well I had Spike send Celestia a letter for me saying that I was coming to visit.” He said. “And she wrote back saying that she’d have a room set up for me.”

“In other words we’ll be staying at the same place.” Rarity said. “Now come on, let’s get settled in and then I’ll introduce you to Sassy Saddles. I bet you two will get along perfectly fine.”

“Thank you very much again for the help, Derpy.” Ballpin said. “I would’ve used my duplication spell, but I thought I’d ask for help this time.”

He and the gray mail mare had just gotten finished collecting ten tubes worth of twittermites for the Electric Pentagon and had just dropped off these tubes of twittermites at the shop and were now walking through town.

“It’s no problem.” Derpy said. “I’m happy to help.”

As the two walked through town, they heard somepony yelling.

“Mommy!”

The two turned and saw a pail violet unicorn with a grayish gold mane running over.

“Hi Dinky!”

Derpy then embraced the young filly.

“Is this your daughter?” Ballpin asked.

“She is.” Derpy then let go her daughter. “Ballpin, this is my daughter Dinky. Dinky, this is Ballpin. He works at the metal shop.”

“Hi.” Dinky said as she approached the blacksmith. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“And you as well, one little.” Ballpin said. “I mean… …little one.”

“What have you been up to Mommy?” Dinky asked.

“I was helping Bally collect twittermites.” Derpy explained to her daughter. “How about you?”

“I had a great time hanging out with Featherweight and Pip.” Dinky said happily. “And then things got better when the CMC showed up.”

Derpy laughed.

“I bet it did.” She said. “Listen, I’m going to go do some shopping for ingredients for dinner. Do you want to come?”

“Sure Mommy, I’ll come with you.”

Derpy then turned to Ballpin.

“Do you want to join us for dinner?” She asked.

An invite to dinner. That doesn’t happen often, if ever.

“I d-don’t see why not.”

“Goody!” Dinky cheered as she bounced up and down.

“We’ll see you then.” Derpy said with a smile.

Blue Collar flipped through his newspaper as he sat on the porch of his cottage.

“Same old news.”

He then looked up and saw his grandson trotting towards the cottage and saw that he had a big smile on his face.

“Scratch that, new news.”

Ballpin screeched to a halt as he arrived at his grandpa’s porch.

“G-grandpa g-guess what!” He said joyfully. “I invited g-got dinner to…”

Ballpin’s speech turned into a slur.

“Easy there boy, slow down.” His grandpa said. “Take a breath.”

Ballpin breathed in and then let the breath out.

“Okay, now what did you want to tell me?” Blue Collar asked.

Ballpin took another breath.

“Remember that mail mare I met?” He asked. “Well she invited me to dinner. So I thought I’d let you know first.”

Blue Collar’s face produced a face of joy and surprise.

“Really?” He asked. “Good for you Ballpin.”

“I’m just going to get washed up now.” Ballpin said as he made his way inside.

Jackboot and Rarity entered the castle grounds. Each carrying their luggage. Jackboot had his black suitcase and Rarity had an assortment of luggage.

“Hasn’t changed a bit.” Jackboot said. “Granted, I’ve only been away for a week.”

Rarity chuckled.

Jackboot almost melted after hearing her laugh.

The two entered the throne room, where Princess Celestia sat at her thrown, looking through scrolls and papers.

Celestia glanced away from the paper she was looking at and toward the throne room entrance. She then did a double take, recognizing the ponies who entered the room.

“Well, look whose here.”

With the way she said that aloud, she seemed to be rather relieved to stop looking through paperwork for a moment.

She set the papers down and stepped down from her throne.

Jackboot looked over at the stack of papers at the throne.

“I hope this isn’t a bad time.” He said.

“Not at all Jackboot.” Celestia said as she approached the two. “It’s always a good time.”

Jackboot, on reflex, took off his cap and bowed before Celestia.

Celestia and Rarity looked at one another and then at Jackboot.

“It’s alright Jackboot, you don’t have to do that.” The Princess said.

Jackboot, almost immediately, got up and put his cap back on.

“Sorry about that. Old habit.” He said. “And I must say dear princess, you look even more beautiful since the last time I saw you.”

Celestia and Rarity both laughed.

“Thank you Jackboot.” The Princess said. “And you look just has handsome since the last time I saw you.”

Jackboot blushed.

“I thank you again for letting me stay in the castle Princess.” Rarity said. “I really appreciate it.”

“Your very welcome, Rarity.” Celestia said. “Oh, and by the way, Jackboot.”

“What is it, Princess?”

“I’m sorry to tell you but the other living quarters have to go through some renovations.” Celestia explained. “You won’t believe this, but every room experienced a terrible gas leak.”

“You’re joking. Every one of them?” Jackboot asked. “How is that possible?”

“I don’t know.” Celestia said. “I’m sorry, but I don’t think we have the room for you.”

“Oh, it’s alright.” Jackboot said. “I’ll find myself an inn or hotel somewhere.”

Before Jackboot or Celestia can say something else, Rarity chimed in.

“He can stay in the Royal Suite with me.” She said. “Well, if that’s alright.”

“Why of course.” Celestia said. “That’s perfectly alright. Do you want me to call somepony to help you with your bags?”

“I’ll grab them.” Jackboot said, picking up every piece of luggage with his magic. “I’ll just bring these to the suite.”

As he walked towards the throne room door, he turned towards Celestia.

“And Princess.” He said. “It’s good to see you again.”

Celestia smiled.

“And you as well Jackboot.”

Jackboot then smiled at the Princess and trotted out of the room.

“Isn’t he just the sweetest thing?” Rarity asked the Princess.

Celestia chuckled.

“You’re telling me.”

“Okay, where do I find Derpy’s house?”

Ballpin looked at the different houses, trying to find Derpy’s house. Who of which had invited him to dinner with her daughter.

As he trotted along the road, he spotted an earth pony up ahead.

“Maybe she might know.”

He then approached the mare, and got a better look of her, despite having her back turned. She had a goldish gray coat and a dark gray mane and tail. Her cutie mark was a violet treble chef.

“Excuse, miss.”

The earth pony turned, and upon seeing her face, Ballpin’s jaw almost hit the ground.

Her mane was stylized and had a pair of grayish mulberry eyes. She also wore a white collar with a violet bow tie.

“Yes, can I help you?”

She spoke in a rather upper-class sounding accent, rather similar that other pony Jackboot has a crush on.

The mare noticed that Ballpin had gone quiet.

“Are you alright?”

Ballpin then snapped out of it.

“Oh I’m sorry, my head was elsewhere.” He said. “Anyway, I was wondering. Do you know where a Miss Derpy Hooves lives?”

The mare recognized the name.

“Of course.” She said. “She lives down that way and then you make a left. You’ll see a mailbox with a picture of a muffin on it.”

“Thank you very much, Miss.” Ballpin said. “Have a good evening.”

“And you as well.” The mare said with a smile that made Ballpin’s heart melt.

Ballpin then returned the smile and trotted down the direction the mare pointed out.

As the distance between him and the increased, Ballpin then realized something.

“I didn’t stutter.” He said. “I didn’t even get my words mixed up.”

He then stopped in his tracks and looked back towards where he saw the mare.

“Who she is?” He then realized his mistake. “Is she. There it went!”

“Mmm, that was really good!” Rarity said gleefully. “Do you think so Jackboot?”

“Yes, it was delicious.” Jackboot agreed.

The two had just gotten back from having dinner with Sassy Saddles and Jackboot’s mother, Emerald Button, at the finest restaurant in Canterlot. Like Rarity said earlier that day, Jackboot did actually get along with Sassy Saddles, the latter being really impressed with Jackboot’s fashion sense. She was also impressed with the Electric Pentagon, and had promised to take a trip to Ponyville just to see the device’s demonstration.

The two ponies were now making their way up the spiral stairway that led up towards the royal suite. Due to the other living quarters being under renovations, Jackboot is to sleep in suite with Rarity. How it was going to work out has yet to be disclosed.

Rarity yawned as she opened the door to the suite. It had gotten surprisingly late.

“Somepony had fun.” Jackboot said as he closed the door as the two entered.

“Oh darling, just wait till the dinner party tomorrow.” Rarity said. “I might have to be carried home at that rate.”

Jackboot laughed.

He then looked around the room, and just so happen to notice that there was one bed in the room.

“So, how are our sleeping arrangements going to work?” He asked. “You want me to take the floor?”

“Well actually darling…” Rarity said. “…I was thinking that we could, well, share the bed.”

Jackboot’s heart dropped.

Was it happening? Was Rarity really inviting him to bed? Granted it was because there wasn’t really any other option other than sleeping on the floor. But still, the most beautiful mare in Equestria was inviting him to sleep in the same bed as her.

Rarity noticed the look on Jackboot’s face, indicating that he did not see that suggestion coming.

“Well if you don’t want to, I understand.” She said.

Jackboot then realized the opportunity was going away quickly.

“Of course!” He said, accidently being loud. “I mean, since you offered, how can I say no?”

Rarity chuckled.

“Very well.” She said. “Do you mind if take a shower first?”

“Ladies first.”

Ballpin unlocked the door of his house.

He looked the inside of the house as he locked the door and saw Blue Collar asleep on the couch.

Ballpin smiled and picked up a blanket and laid it down on his grandpa.

“Good night, grandpa.”

He then walked up the stairs and into his bedroom.

Upon closing the door, he plopped himself onto his bed.

“Such a dinner good.” He said, not bothering to correct his sentence. “Good dinner, good company. That stallion said he was a doctor of some sort right?”

His mind then found its way back to that mare.

“I still want to know who that mare was.” He said. “Such a beautiful mare.”

He turned his head toward his desk and saw paper and a feather quill.

“Hmm.”

He then got off his bed and approached the desk.

“I haven’t done this in a while.” He said as he took out a vile of ink from the drawer.

He then dipped the quill into the ink and began to write.

“Dear Princess Celestia…”

Jackboot stepped out of the washroom after brushing his teeth.

He then saw Rarity lying in bed reading a book while wearing a pair of red framed glasses.

“What that’s your reading?” He asked.

“The latest addition of Shadow Spade.” She answered. “This is one where Shadow is…”

Rarity stopped talking upon seeing Jackboot. This is first time she’d seen him without any of his clothes on. He actually had a decent looking body, she thought. After all he does do a lot of physical work.

Jackboot noticed Rarity staring at him.

“What is it?” He asked. “Do I have something on my face?”

Rarity shook her head.

“Oh no, it’s just…” She didn’t really know what to say. “…you look different without clothes on.”

Jackboot smirked.

“Oh really?” He said. “How different do I look?”

Rarity blushed.

“Just… …different…”

She then dug her head deeper into the book.

She suddenly felt the mattress of the bed shift. She then looked and saw Jackboot was about several inches away from her.

“What sort of different?” He asked.

Rarity blushed even redder.

“Very… …different.” She said.

Jackboot then moved his head away.

“Okay, just wondering.” He said, this time more casually.

He then tucked his hind legs under the blankets and laid his head down on the pillow and put his hooves behind his head.

“So what are you going do in the morning?’ He asked. “I have to go and check on the glass domes. Thankfully I remembered to bring the bits with me.”

“Well I have to go down to the boutique and help Sassy with her orders, that way she can make the dinner party.”

“Where is the party being held at anyway?”

“At the home of the one and only, Fancy Pants.” She answered with an excited smile.

“Oh, Fancy Pants.” Jackboot said, remembering the name. “I haven’t seen him in a while.”

“You know Fancy Pants!?”

Suddenly Rarity was the same distance from Jackboot’s face, just as his was from her face earlier.

“Yes, I do know him.” Jackboot answered. “Didn’t I tell you?”

Rarity then realized how close she was to him.

“Oh, of course. You must have.”

She then backed away from Jackboot to her side of the bed.

“Well, we’d better get some sleep.” She said as she set her book aside and took her glasses off. “We both have a lot to do.”

Rarity then turned the lamp off and got comfortable.

“Good night Jackboot.”

“Good night, Rarity.”

Chapter XV

Current Time: 10:21 AM, Sunday

Jackboot stirred in his sleep. The sunlight that beamed through the window landed on his eyes. His eyelids quivered before finally opening.

He groaned as she stretched his legs.

“Morning, Rarity.”

There was no answer.

“Rarity?”

He looked around and saw that he was the only pony in the room. As he looked around the room, he saw a piece of paper with writing on it on the dresser.

He approached the paper and picked it up.

It read…

Jackboot nodded after he finished reading the note.

“Not a bad idea.” He said. “The glassworks aren’t too far away. I think I might end up getting there early.”

He then set the note down.

“First, I will brush my teeth.”

He then proceeded to walk towards the washroom door, but then stopped in his tracks as he then realized something.

“Wait a moment.”

He then trotted back to the letter and got a good look at it.

“Did she draw a heart on there?”

He picked the letter up with his magic and took a closer look.

“She did.” He said. “Does that …?”

He thought about it for a moment.

“No, it’s probably a friend heart. She probably signs it like that with her other friends as well.”

He then set the paper down once more.

“I’ll ask her about it when I meet up with her.”

“Such a beautiful day.” Ballpin said as he arrived at the Ponyville Park.

Ballpin had just gotten finished having breakfast with Blue Collar and had gone for a walk.

As Ballpin trotted across the bridge over the stream that ran through the park, he started to hear something in the distance. It wasn’t a noise. Well, yes it was a noise, but it was a pleasant sound.

“What is that?”

Ballpin then put his hoof to his ear, trying to indicate what direction the pleasant sound was coming from.

He turned his head slowly, and managed to lock on to the sound. He saw that the direction was towards a gazebo at the top of a hill.

“That way.”

He trotted along the path towards the gazebo. As he got closer, that pleasant sound was music. And that music seemed to come from a string instrument of some sort.

“I’m getting closer…”

He managed to find the end of the path and he found himself at the gazebo where the source of the music was. In the gazebo appeared to be a cellist. And this cellist, Ballpin recognized.

“That’s her. The mare from last night.”

He looked around and saw that several ponies were gathered to watch. A total of five were present. A mint green unicorn, an earth pony with a cobalt blue and fuchsia mane, and a white unicorn with a blue mane who wore a pair of purple lensed glasses and a pair of headphones around her neck. The other two he had dinner with the night before.

He walked over toward the mail mare and her daughter.

He called as quietly as he could.

“Hey, Derpy, Dinky!”

The pegasus and unicorn turned their heads.

“Hi Bally.” Derpy said.

“Hello.” Dinky said.

Ballpin sat down next to the mother and daughter.

“How have you two been?” He asked, keeping his voice low.

“We’re doing fine.” Derpy answered her voice at the same volume as his. “We had a nice breakfast earlier.”

“Let me guess…” Ballpin said. “…muffins?”

“Pancakes actually.” Derpy said. “We have them every Sunday.”

The two then turned their attention towards the cellist, who was still playing a very pleasant tune.

Ballpin looked at the mare’s face and saw that she had a rather serious look on her face, which showed how focused she was.

He then leaned over to Derpy.

“Hey, Derpy. Who is she?”

“Her name is Octavia.” Derpy answered. “Octavia Melody. She’s the best musician in town.”

The white unicorn looked over at the two, which Derpy took notice.

“One of the best.”

The unicorn smiled and returned her attention to Octavia.

After several minutes, Octavia finished her piece.

Everypony then applauded the mare who bowed.

“You go Octavia!” The mint green unicorn shouted.

The white unicorn then pumped her hoof up and down.

Dinky and her mother cheered.

“Thank you everypony.” The cellist said as she set her cello in its case.

As Octavia stepped off the gazebo, a brown stallion ran up to the crowd.

“Oh no, am I too late?”

If it weren’t the hourglass he had for a cutie mark and the white collar and green bowtie he wore, he would’ve mistaken him for somepony else.

The stallion turned and recognized Ballpin.

“Great whickering stallions it’s you again, hello.”

The stallion then shook Ballpin’s hoof.

“Nice to see you as well.” He said. “What was your name again?”

“My name is Time Turner.” The brown stallion answered. “But ponies often call me Doc. I guess you can call me that as well.”

Octavia recognized Ballpin.

“I remember you.” She said. “Derpy told me you made it to her house. Your name is Ballpin, yes?”

“The only and one.” Ballpin quickly realized his mistake. “I mean, one and only.”

“So you’re the Ballpin Derpy and Dinky told us about?” The mint pony asked. “It’s nice to meet you. I’m Lyra Heartstrings. This is my friend Bon Bon and that pony right there in the glasses is Vinyl Scratch, or DJ-Pon three, depending on who you ask.”

Vinyl nodded her head in greeting and gave Ballpin a hoof bump.

“So what brings you out here, Ballpin?” Bon Bon asked. “Did Octavia’s music catch your ear?”

“I did actually.” Ballpin said. “She’s pretty beautiful.”

Everypony’s eyes went wide.

Ballpin realized his mistake almost immediately.

“I-I m-mean, you’re beautiful is very music.” He said in a panic, mixing up his words. “I mean... …can I start over?” He asked as his cheeks reddened with embarrassment.

Several of the ponies laughed, with Ballpin, not at him.

“It’s alright Ballpin, we’ve all done that.” Lyra said.

Ballpin blushed still, and to his surprise, Octavia blushed as well.

“Bits well spent.”

Jackboot walked down one of the vast streets of Canterlot. He had just left the glassworks, where he was told that the domes for the Pentagon. To his surprise, since his father had done a lot of business with them, they gave him a discount. This caused him to have a surplus of leftover bits.

Now that the business with the domes was done, he was on his way toward The Cake Plate, the bakery Rarity told him to meet in her note. He was actually familiar with this place, but never actually been here first hand. The bakery looked almost similar to that of other Canterlot establishments, but had a color scheme of light brown and ice white, probably to represent a cake with frosting. The sign above the door was a picture of an assortment of pastries with the words “The Cake Plate” below it.

“Rarity said she’d meet me around half past noon.” Jackboot said as he looked at the bakery. “What time is…?”

Before he could finish his question, the answer came to him almost immediately.

“…oh, right.”

He then looked back at the bakery.

“They must have a clock in there.” He thought. “I’ll have a look.”

He then walked through the doors of the establishment and looked around. He looked and saw the tables and chairs made of maple wood, the marble countertops, the pastries and cakes in the glass display, and smelled the sweet scent of something cooking. In short, he liked the place the moment he walked through the doors. But looks could be deceiving. He wanted to try what they had to offer.

As he looked up at the menu board above the front counter, he sound of somepony caught his attention.

“Heeey!” The somepony said. “Jackboot is that you?”

Jackboot looked down and saw a light brown unicorn mare, which caused him to do a double take. She had a mane and tail that were white and light blue and had a pair of green eyes. He saw that her cutie mark was that of a white piping bag making a line of frosting.

“I know who you are.” He said. “But I can’t place you.”

The mare chuckled cheerfully.

“It’s me, Frosted Cookie.” The mare said. “Remember, from school?”

Jackboot’s eye burst out of his head.

“Now I remember! How are you?”

The mare then ran from behind the counter and joyfully hugged Jackboot.

“It’s so good to see you.” She said. “How have you been?”

“I’ve been doing well.”

Frosted Cookie then let go of Jackboot.

“So, what have you been up to Jack?”

“I came here to meet somepony. Speaking of which do you have a clock here? I forgot my watch back in Ponyville.”

Cookie pointed at the wall behind Jackboot. He turned and saw that it was several minutes before twelve thirty.

“So who’s this somepony your meeting?” Cookie asked. “A date?”

Jackboot heard the bell above the door ring and saw Rarity enter the establishment.

“Ask her yourself.”

“So your domes are ready to go by tomorrow?” Rarity asked as she took a bit of her sandwich.

“They will, yes.” Jackboot answered.

The two were in the middle of a lunch of sandwiches and pastries. Frosted Cookie had joined them while she was on her break. Jackboot had filled her in on the electric pentagon, of which really intrigued her.

“I got to see this pentagon thing in action.” Cookie said. “That sounds awesome.”

“You’re telling me.” Jackboot said. “I got my partner back in Ponyville gathering the rest of the materials. Hopefully I’ll get it functioning by Friday.” He then took a sip of his chocolate milk. “I also hope I can figure out how to keep the charge at a safe level. Otherwise it’ll back fire like it did last time.”

Cookie swallowed the last of her sandwich.

“Didn’t you say that you two will be at Fancy Pants’ dinner party tonight?”

“We will, yes.” Rarity answered as she wiped her mouth. “Jackboot and I will attend. And if I remember correctly, his mother will be there as well.”

“Funny thing is that The Cake Plate is catering the event.” Cookie explained. “So I might see you there. My coltfriend will be there too.”

“You have a coltfriend?” Jackboot asked. “Who’s the lucky stallion?”

Before Cookie could answer, the stallion from behind the counter got her attention.

“Hey Frosty! Break’s over!”

“Okay, be right there!” Cookie then returned her attention to Jackboot and Rarity. “Sorry you two, I got to get back to work. So, I’ll see you two tonight?”

Jackboot and Rarity said their temporary goodbyes to Cookie and made their way out of the Bakery after paying.

“So Jackboot, is there anything else you want to do?” Rarity asked.

“Go for a walk?” Jackboot suggested. “You know, to kill time.”

“Never thought I’d set hoof in one of these places.”

Ballpin looked around the inside of the Ponyville Spa. Normally Lyra and Bon Bon spent some times together at the spa on Sundays. But since Bon Bon had to attend to something urgent, Lyra decided to invite Ballpin to tag along.

Lyra chuckled after hearing what Ballpin had said.

“Don’t worry. A lot of stallions come here.” She said. “I remember when Derpy brought the Doc here with her.”

As the two spoke to one another, one of the spa ponies, a pink mare with a blue mane came into the waiting area.

“Lyra!” She said, spotting the mint green pony. “I haven’t seen you in a long time!”

The pink spa worker kissed Lyra on both cheeks in greeting.

“It’s good to see you too, Aloe.”

Aloe then turned her attention Ballpin.

“And who do we have here today?” She asked. “I’m Aloe; it’s nice to meet you.”

“And you as well.” Ballpin said shaking the mare’s hoof.

“He’s here to fill Bon Bon’s reservation, if that’s alright.”

“Of course darling.” Aloe said happily. “And will you be having your usual?”

“Yep. Hooficure, a message, and a good steam.” Lyra said. “What about you Ballpin?”

Ballpin thought for a moment.

“I think I’ll…”

He paused upon seeing the next pony to enter the spa.

“Hey Tavy!” Lyra called over to the mare.

The cellist approached the two.

“Hello, Lyra, Ballpin.” She said. “Come here for a message?”

“I am.” Lyra answered. “But I’m not sure what Ballpin is having.”

Ballpin then panicked. Would a mare like Octavia like a stallion who coming to a spa? Sure, Lyra had just said that a lot of stallions come to the spa, but that didn’t make said stallions immune to criticism.

“I’m for a…” He said, trying to think of something. “…deep tissue message. Yeah, like the sportsponies get.”

The three mares looked at one another and then back at Ballpin.

“Are you sure?” Lyra asked.

“I-I’m sure.”

Aloe then nodded.

“Alright then, I’ll show you to your room.” She said with a smile. “Follow me please.”

Ballpin followed the pink mare into the back, down a hall, and into a room.

“Bulk Biceps will be with you in a moment.” Aloe said. “Enjoy your message.”

“I will. Thank you.”

Aloe walked out of the room. Leaving Ballpin alone.

As he sat on the message table, he thought about the event that had just unfolded. The prettiest mare he’s ever seen was right there and he panicked. He could have gotten something like Lyra thought, but he didn’t know what Octavia would think.

Another matter came to mind. Who was Bulk Biceps and how bad would a deep tissue message be?

His internal question was answered by the sight of possibly the biggest stallion he’s ever seen walking into the room. He was light gray pegasus with red eyes and an amber mane. What made him even more intimidating was that his cutie mark was a dumbbell. Was this stallion really a message therapist?

“Are you ready?!” He asked loudly.

Ballpin had no other choice.

“I guess so.”

After what felt like an hour of bone popping, Ballpin was finished with his message.

“How do you feel?!” The pegasus asked.

It took Ballpin a moment to even sit up.

“Well I feel different than I did before.” He answered as he got on all of his hooves. “Thanks.”

“No problem!”

Ballpin walked into the waiting area with what almost looked like a limp. He saw Lyra and Octavia talking. The former saw Ballpin and waved him over.

“Enjoy your message?” She asked.

“You can say that.” Ballpin said as he stretched. “How about you?”

“We enjoyed our session very much.” Octavia said. “We just got done with our time in the steam room.”

Ballpin could not help but looked at Octavia. Suddenly, an idea came to his head.

“I’ll ask her out.” He thought. “Jackboot did it with Rarity, so I’ll do it as well.”

He then took in a breath.

“Octavia. Can I ask you something?”

Octavia turned her head.

“Yes, what is it?”

That voice of hers. Such a lovely sound.

“I was wondering.” Ballpin said. “Are you doing anything later?”

Octavia thought for a moment.

“Well I was going to practice my cello more. I’m going to perform at the Celebration this Friday.” She said. “Why? Do you suggest something to do?”

Ballpin thought for a moment.

“I don’t know.” He said. “I didn’t think that far ahead.”

Chapter XVI

The sun began to set as ponies poured into Fancy Pants’ mansion. All of these ponies were of Canterlot’s upper class elite and were most certainly dressed for the occasion. Four of these were Jackboot, Emerald Button, Rarity, and Sassy Saddles, all of which were dressed in their best formal wear.

Jackboot wore a black tuxedo white and, instead of his newsboy cap, he wore a homburg of the same color. He also didn’t wear his boots, at the suggestion of his mother. The three mares all wore dresses. His mother’s dress was green with silver tassels; Sassy’s was black frilled, while Rarity’s made her look like a Princess, better yet a queen according to Jackboot. She had told him that she wore it when she attended the Grand Galloping Gala.

“Hard to believe that we were at the same party without knowing it.” Rarity said with glee. Jackboot had told her earlier that he was a part of the wait staff during that year of the Gala. Unfortunately, Jackboot couldn't remember seeing her, or any of her friends. “It’s too bad we didn’t meet then.”

The four entered through the front door of the mansion, following and being followed by other members of the city’s elite. They were welcomed by members of the wait staff as they entered the ballroom. On one side of the room was a band playing classical music while on the opposite side was a table where a spread of horderves where a couple of ponies could be seen sampling some of the delectable snacks. In the center of the room was a large spot cleared to serve as a dance floor.

“Where should we sit?” Jackboot asked. “By the snack table or near the band?”

Before either of the mares could answer, they heard somepony calling over to them.

“Jackboot!” That somepony said. “Jackboot, my boy, is that you?”

Jackboot looked over at table that bordered the dance floor and saw six ponies there. Three of them were stallions and the other three mares.

All of which Jackboot recognized. The one who called over was a unicorn stallion with a light azure mane.

Jackboot smiled and approached the group.

“Hello Fancy Pants.” He said. “It has been a while.”

Ballpin and Octavia sat at a table at the Clover Café. It was good time to be there as it was Just as Celestia was lowering the sun, and the stars in the sky were popping out.

“How long have you been playing the cello?” Ballpin asked as he took a sip of his water.

“I started playing it when I was merely a filly.” Octavia answered. “Since then I got a good feel for it.”

Ballpin smiled as their food arrived. Octavia had ordered a garden salad, while Ballpin ordered a hay burger with hay fries.

As Ballpin began to take a bite of his burger, Octavia decided to ask a question of her own.

“Do you play any instruments as well?” She asked before taking a bite of her salad.

Ballpin swallowed.

“I don’t actually.” He answered as he took another bite. “But…” He then swallowed. “…I do sing sometimes.”

This caught Octavia’s interest.

“Really?” She asked. “What sort of songs do you sing?”

“An assortment of them.” He said as he popped a couple of hay fries. “Pretty much anything that sounds good to me. But I don’t sing that often.”

“Why is that?”

“As you probably noticed, I stutter and mix my words sometimes.” Ballpin explained. “Just the thought of going out in front of a crowd makes stutter me.” He realized my mistake. “I mean, me stutter.”

“Maybe if you were in front of a couple of ponies you know, you’d feel more comfortable.” Octavia said. “And then work your way from there.”

“I don’t know.” He said as he looked down. “I’d probably just mix my words up again.”

He suddenly felt something touch his hoof. He looked and saw that it was Octavia’s.

“I know you’ll do fine.” She said. “I myself had trouble when I first starting playing the cello. Now that I think about it, Vinyl had a lot of trouble when she got into music. Now she’s one of the best musicians in Ponyville. She is even has her own little dance club over in Manehattan.”

“Really?”

Octavia nodded.

“I’ll tell you what.” She said. “Maybe once we’re done here we can go back to my house and see what you can do.”

Ballpin thought for a moment.

“I don’t see why not.” He said. “But I don’t want to stay out to long. I got to get up in the morning to open the shop.”

The dinner party was in full swing.

Jackboot and the three mares were sat at the same table as Fancy Pants and his entourage. He had introduced two of them as writer Trenderhoof and Fancy Pants’ lady friend, Fleur Dis Lee. Who of which Jackboot went to school with when he was a colt, while he had actually read some of Trenderhoof's articles.

“So you’ll be demonstrating this Pentagon device at the celebration?” Fleur Dis Lee asked from Fancy Pants’ side.

“I will, yes.” Jackboot said. “I’m almost done with the construction with the modules. The only parts I need are the glass domes, ten tubes of twittermites, and the black crystal. Thankfully the domes will be ready by tomorrow morning and I have a partner back in Ponyville who is collecting the twittermites. And I assume he’s collected all of them by now. Come to think of it, if it wasn’t for him, the deadline would be much closer than it is.”

“What is this pony’s name?” Trenderhoof asked as he pulled out a notepad and pencil. “Will he be helping you with the demonstration?”

“His name is Ballpin.” Jackboot answered as he took a sip of his cider. “And I’m not sure if he’ll be helping me. I haven’t asked about it yet. But with him being a unicorn I think he’ll a great help.”

“Why does it matter that he’s a unicorn?” Sassy Saddles asked.

“You see, only a unicorn can operate the Pentagon.” Jackboot explained. “I have this theory that, if one unicorn can get the charge going and keep it going, then a second one can maintain the charge.”

Trenderhoof wrote in his notepad.

“This is really something.” He said. “I’d like to meet this Ballpin at the celebration.”

“Sure, I’ll introduce you.”

Jackboot then took another drink of his cider.

“This is very good cider by the way. Where did you get this from? It tastes rather familiar.”

“Why thank you.” Fancy Pants said. “I got it imported from Sweet Apple Acres. Funny enough, Miss Rarity here is friends with the mare that works there.”

“So am I.” Jackboot said. “Come to think of it, I think I helped buck the apples that went into this cider.”

Suddenly Jackboot felt his stomach growl.

“Somepony’s hungry.” Rarity said from Jackboot’s left.

“If you are, help yourself to the horderves we have.” Fancy Pants said. “I highly recommend the black apple-root mushrooms.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Jackboot said as he got up from his seat. “Does anypony want anything while I’m up there?”

“Mmm, everything looks so good.”

By the time Jackboot got to the center of the row of food tables, the plate he carried was almost completely full.

As he pondered on what pastries he wanted, one of the caterers got his attention.

“Hey, Jackboot!” She called quietly.

Jackboot looked up and saw that it was Frosted Cookie in a white chef’s coat.

“I was wondering when I was going to see you.”

“I just got here a couple minutes ago.” Cookie explained. “Anyway, do you see anything that interests you?”

As Jackboot selected a cinnamon roll, he saw Cookie’s face change.

“Hey baby!” She shouted quietly over to an unseen pony.

Jackboot looked behind him and saw somepony that made his eyes widen.

“How’s my favorite mare?” The red pegasus ask, giving Cookie a kiss on the cheek.

The flying stallion had a red and yellow mane and tail, blue eyes, and wore a tux similar to Jackboot’s. But what made his different was that he wore a blue six pointed star with a gold border around his neck on a gold chain. His cutie mark was a red arrow with a yellow border. Inside the red of the arrow was an object that Jackboot had only seen on very rare occasions, a bomb, the kind that is dropped from the sky.

Cookie then turned the stallion’s attention to Jackboot.

“Let me introduce you to a friend of mine.” She said. “This is Jackboot. He was a class mate of mine when I was in magic school.”

The pegasus looked over at Jackboot.

“Oh, I know ‘em already.” He said. “What’s up Jackboot?”

He then stuck his hoof out.

Jackboot looked at the hoof and then at the pegasus’s face.

“I’ve been doing well.” He said as he shook the hoof. “Dive bomber.”

Ballpin sat down on the sofa as Octavia made tea in the other room, while Vinyl sat beside him listening to her music.

“I see your headphones are working fine.”

Vinyl didn’t hear him.

“And indeed are they…. …I mean, they are.”

Octavia walked into the room with a tray of tea.

“Let me help you.”

Ballpin then grabbed the tray with his magic and carefully set it on the table in front of the sofa.

“Thank you, Ballpin.” Octavia said with a smile.

She then sat down in a chair across from her friends and grabbed a cup and took a sip.

“This is good tea.” Ballpin said. “This is Earl Grey, right?”

“Indeed it is.” Octavia said. “It’s very good tea to drink before singing. At least for some ponies anyway.”

Ballpin took a sip of his tea before setting it down.

“So, what song do you want me to sing?” He asked. “Because I know a couple.”

“Any song you feel comfortable with.” Octavia answered.

“Well there was this one that caught my interest. It was one of the proposed anthems for Equestria after Luna returned.”

Octavia and Vinyl looked at one another and smiled before looking at Ballpin.

“That’s sound good.” Octavia said. “How about that?”

Ballpin took a long swig of his tea before standing up. He then stood at one end of the table.

“When you ready.”

Ballpin took a breath.

Youtube Video

The two mares had a look of amazement on their faces.

“That was…”

Octavia was at a loss of words.

“…awesome.” Her blue maned housemate said.

“Was it really that good?” He asked.

“Yes it was.” Octavia said. “Your voice is just so, clear and perfect.”

Ballpin blushed.

The white unicorn spoke up again.

“Hey Tavy…” She said. “…I think the celebration just got a new act.”

“You think so?” Ballpin asked. “You think I can do it?”

“Yeah, you’ll do fine. It’ll all be good.”

Ballpin blushed as he scratched the back of his neck, until he realized something.

“Wait a moment.” He said. “Vinyl, you can talk?”

The white unicorn merely smiled and gave off a sassy shrug.

Chapter XVII

“And that’s how I beat Spitfire.”

Dive Bomber had pulled up a chair to the table Jackboot and everypony else was. He had just finished telling a story where he challenged and won a race against the captain of the Wonderbolts herself.

“A fascinating story, Mr. Bomber.” Fancy Pants said. “Are you actually a member of the Wonderbolts?”

“I am actually.” Dive Bomber said. “Well, the reserves anyway.”

“Jackboot and I are friends with somepony who is a reserves member as well.” Rarity said.

“Oh really? What’s this pony’s name?”

“Her name is Rainbow Dash.” Rarity answered. “And speaking of Spitfire, Jackboot here told me that he had actually met her as well.”

Everypony’s eyes suddenly were on Jackboot.

“Well, it was only a brief encounter.” He said. His tone wasn’t as vibrant as it was earlier, even for him. “But, yes I met her.”

Rarity and Emerald both took notice of Jackboot’s tone change, but decided to leave it for now.

“That’s cool.” Dive Bomber said. “Maybe I’ll ask about you next time I see. We’re going to perform at the Summer Sun Celebration this coming Friday.”

“Oh really?” Sassy Saddles said, who sat between Golden Gavel and Silver Frames. “Jackboot here is going to doing something for the Celebration as well. It’s called the… …um… …Electro Octagon? I’m sorry what is it called again?”

“The Electric Pentagon.” Emerald answered for her son. “In fact, Celestia herself sent him to Ponyville to help out with the celebration. Isn’t that right?”

Jackboot nodded.

“Well that’s something I got to see.” Dive Bomber said. “Maybe when I’m down there we’ll hang out. How’s that sound?”

“I have no objections.” Jackboot said, still maintaining that same tone.

“Awesome.” Dive Bomber said with glee.

As everypony continued to talk, the music the bad played changed.

“Oh, I like this song.” The red pegasus said. He then turned to Rarity. “Hey, Rarity, you mind if I ask you to dance?”

Rarity put her hoof over her heart.

“Well of course Dive Bomber, how could I saw no?”

Jackboot’s heart dropped. Did Rarity really just accept his offer?

Jackboot merely watched Rarity follow Dive Bomber out to the dance floor.

Emerald noticed the look on his son’s face.

“Sweetheart, are you alright?” She asked. “You look distressed.”

Jackboot then snapped out of it.

“Oh, I’m alright.” He answered. “I just need get some air. Pardon me.”

Rarity and Dive Bomber held one another as they dance. Fancy Pants and Fleur Dis Lee had joined them as well.

“You’re a very good dancer.” Rarity said.

“Thank you.” Dive Bomber said. “I’ve been around.”

The two spoke quietly so they didn’t drown out the music.

“By the way, Miss Rarity.” Dive Bomber said. “Did you notice anything about Jackboot? He seemed a little off.”

“I did actually.” She said. “I wonder what it was that was bothering him.”

“I think I know.” Dive Bomber said. “You see, we used to be classmates when we were colts. And let’s just say I was anything but nice to him.”

Rarity was surprised.

“You bullied him?” She asked.

“Yeah… …I did…” Dive Bomber said with clear guilt in his voice. “…and I’ll tell you one thing, I’m anything but proud of it.”

This caught Rarity’s attention.

“Really?”

“Yes, really.” Dive Bomber said. “And I really would like to apologize to him, but I don’t think he’d want to hear it. Can’t say I blame him, especially from the way I treated him.”

Rarity grew more curious. What did this stallion do to Jackboot that was so regrettable? This sounded to be a lot more than the usual antics of a schoolyard bully.

“Maybe I should talk to him.” She said. “What do you think?”

“It’s not a bad idea.” Dive Bomber said. Before he could say something else, a look of realization came over his face. “By the way, what time is it?”

Rarity looked over a clock and saw that it was almost nine fifteen.

“It’s about a quartered after nine.” She said. “Why do ask?”

“It’s that late?” Dive Bomber asked with a panic. “Oh jeez. I forgotten I couldn’t stay too long. I got to get going or else Spitfire will have my head. It was nice meeting you Rarity.”

“And you as well, Dive Bomber.”

Dive Bomber then trotted away to bit his farewells.

“Now where did you go my dear Jackboot?”

Jackboot sighed as he looked up at the night sky as he stood out on the balcony.

“Are you alright, darling?”

Jackboot almost jumped.

He turned and saw the white mare approach him.

“Oh, hello Rarity.” He said. “Are you enjoying yourself?”

“Indeed I am.”

Rarity then joined Jackboot and looked up at the sky.

“It’s a beautiful night isn’t it?” She asked.

“Yes it is.”

Jackboot looked over at Rarity. The moonlight almost reflected off of her mane and her white coat.

“She is so beautiful.” He thought once again.

“I spoke with Dive Bomber.” Rarity said. “He’s a rather nice stallion.”

“What’s he doing now?”

“He had to leave. According to him, he had to report to the rest of the Wonderbolts.”

She then looked over at Jackboot.

“If you don’t mind me asking…” She said. “…what exactly happened between you two?”

“What do you mean?”

“Well the way he spoke about the history between you two, it seems to be more than simply stealing your lunch money.”

There were no excuses to be made.

“Do you really want to know?” He asked.

“Of course, darling.” Rarity said. “I wouldn’t be out here if I didn’t.”

Jackboot then cleared his throat.

“Well, I remember it all clearly.”

Jackboot stared at his magic book as he sat alone at lunch outside. It was one of the many books his father kept in his library. But his father was gone now, taken from him. The only thing he had now, were the many pictures around the house, his tools, his books, and more importantly, his pocket watch of gold.

As he turned a page, he heard what sounded like hoofsteps and looked up, to his surprise, members of the popular crowd approaching him. Of them was one of the school’s star athletes, Dive Bomber. He also recognized several of the other fillies and colts. These included Neon Lights, Sunny Flare, Indigo Zap, Royal Pin, and Fleur Dis Lee. All of which had a tray of food.

“Watcha reading?” The red pegasus asked.

Jackboot didn’t answer. Instead he placed the piece of paper he used as a bookmark in the spot he left off and handed the book to the red athlete.

Dive Bomber carefully propped open the book and flipped through it.

“Magic huh?” He said. “Pretty cool. I wouldn’t know how to practice it. Cause, you know, not a unicorn.” He then flapped his wings to show that he was a pegasus as he handed Jackboot back his book. “Is it cool if we sit with you?”

Jackboot nodded, allowing the pegasus and his friends sat down at the table.

“I never caught your name.” Dive Bomber said. “What is it?”

“J-Jackboot.” Jackboot answered.

“Well it’s nice to meet you Jackboot.” Dive Bomber said. He then looked as his tray and realized something. “Oops, I forgot to get an apple.”

Before Dive Bomber could slid his chair back, Jackboot got up before him.

“I’ll get it.”

“Well that doesn’t sound so bad.” Rarity said.

“It started out nice.” Jackboot said. “But, let’s just say I got a little too willing to help.”

Rarity didn’t understand.

“What do you mean?”

“Have you ever been asked to perform a favor for somepony?” Jackboot asked. “Like, say, help with homework for example.”

“Oh of course.” Rarity answered. “Many times when I was a filly.”

“Have you ever been the one that did all the work?”

Rarity then realized what Jackboot was getting at.

“Oh.” She said. “I see what you mean.”

“Yep. I was merely a worker for them. The only payment I received was so-called friendship.” Jackboot said with scorn building his voice. “But I was naïve at the time. I didn’t care that I did a bunch of work, I had friends.”

Jackboot sighed before continuing.

“I didn’t realize what was going on until it was too late.”

“What happened?” Rarity asked with concern.

“Well… …no pony came to my birthday party.”

Rarity gasped.

“After all I did for them; they didn’t even bother to come to my birthday.” Jackboot said. “I later learned that it was the result some awful rumor. If I remember correctly, the rumor was that my house was infested with bugs and that the cake was made of coach stuffing. Sure it sounds silly now, but at the time, I felt as if my heart was in a thousand pieces. As soon as I saw that red rat with wings the following Monday I just lost it.” Jackboot explained. “At one point he had the nerve to say, “Dude, calm down, we’re friends aren’t we?”

“What happened then?” Rarity asked with surprise.

“After a second I shouted, “I’m not your friend”, before storming off.” Jackboot answered. “Clearly they got the message because for almost over a month I endured nothing bullying. From glue being poured on my seat, being tripped once in a while, paper thrown at me. You know basic stuff.”

Jackboot took a deep breath.

“And then one day, it ended.” He said. “But not in the way one would imagine.”

“Man I’m so bored!” Dive Bomber said aloud.

It was the last class of the school day and the teacher had to go to a staff meeting, leaving the colts and fillies alone.

“Wish we had a record player in here or something.” Neon Lights said.

“Somepony needs to make a record player you can fit in your pocket.” Royal Pin added.

“Yeah, that would be cool.” Sunny Flare agreed.

The mulberry maned mare looked over at Jackboot who sat at his desk quietly with a book in hand.

Sunny then leaned over to Dive Bomber.

“Maybe Jackmule over there can sing for us.” She suggested.

Dive Bomber thought for a moment.

“Good idea.” He said. “Neon, with me.”

The two approached Jackboot.

After Jackboot turned the page, his book was suddenly snatched from his hooves.

“Hey, give that back!” He said as the opalish gray pegasus looked through the book.

“You can have it back…” Dive bomber said as he stood to Jackboot’s right. “…after you sing a song for us.”

He then looked at the rest of the class.

“Hear that everypony?” He asked. “Jackboot here is going to sing for us.”

Dive Bomber then turned back to Jackboot and tried to pull him out of the chair.

“Come on, get up front.” He said. “Pin, help me out over here.”

Royal pin then trotted over to Dive Bomber and grabbed Jackboot, pulling him to the front of the room.

“Now sing!” Dive bomber said.

Dive Bomber then sat back down next to Sunny Flare after Neon tossed him the book.

“Why do you want him to sing anyway?” He whispered to the mare. “You know he’ll sound terrible.”

“Because dearie, it’ll be funny.” Sunny said. “Come on Jackboot, sing for us!”

“What do I do?” Jackboot thought as he glanced around the room. “I want my book back, but I don’t want to get beat up in the process.” He then looked over at Dove Bomber who was looking through the book Jackboot was reading. “And I don’t want my book torn apart.”

“Come on Jackmule sing!” Indigo Zap shouted from the back of the room.

“You have ten seconds to sing or else Bomber is going tear your book up.” Sunny said as she began to count. “Ten, nine, eight, seven, six…”

“Think, think, think!” Jackboot said. A song then came to mind. “I got it!”

“…five, four, three…”

Youtube Video

Before Sunny could get to two, Jackboot began to sing a song that she or her friends have never heard before.

“Wow…”

That was all she could say. Not only was it a song she or anypony else has never heard before, it was in a different language.

Royal Pin and Neon trotted over to Diver Bomber and Sunny.

“What in Celestia is he singing?” Sunny asked. “I’ve never heard it before.”

“I think it’s from that set of sheet music and lyrics that came through some portal Celestia made by mistake.” Neon said. “Apparently it’s from another world, from what I heard.”

“You can buy a copy of it.” Royal Pin added. “But its costs a lot of bits.”

Several minutes later, Jackboot was finished.

After a brief silence, the class, to Jackboot’s surprise, applauded.

Dive Bomber and his friends were at awe. They intended for Jackboot to get laughed at, not applauded.

“Well this is awkward, huh Dive bomber?” Sunny asked. “Dive Bomber?”

She looked over and saw that her friend was quiet.

Jackboot then trotted over to the red pegasus.

“Can I have my book back please?”

Dive Bomber wasn’t sure what to do. He merely got up and gave the book back to Jackboot.

But as He let go of the book, he caught sight of the golden chain going into a pocket on his vest. Without a second thought, he dug his hoof into the pocket and pulled out the watch from within.

“Hey what are you doing?!”

Without answering, Dive Bomber ran out of the room.

“Get back here!”

“He really did that?” Rarity asked. “Why?”

“He did.” Jackboot said as he looked his watch. “And to be honest I didn’t know why he did it exactly.”

“Since you have your watch, I assume you got it back, right?”

“I did.” Jackboot said. “But how I did it still haunts me to this day.”

“What happened?” Rarity asked.

Jackboot was silent. He had a look on his face that showed reluctance.

Rarity then put her hoof to Jackboot’s cheek and turned it towards her.

“Jackboot. You can tell me. I won’t think of you differently, no matter what happened.”

Jackboot took a deep breath, deeper than the one he had taken earlier.

“As you know, I can teleport.” He began. “So when I chased after Dive Bomber, I decided to use this skill. When I did, I appeared in front of him. Obviously it scared the tar out of him, because he then threw my watch. I still remember seeing it fly out of his hoof, as if time had slowed down. Time went back to normal speed as I watched the clockwork scatter across the floor.”

Jackboot’s voice started to strain.

“Before I knew it, all I saw was red.” He continued. “Dive Bomber tried to saying something, I turned around, and a blast from my horn sent him careening against the wall. Last thing I remember from that was a couple of teachers pulling me away after I beat him bloody.”

A tear went down his cheek.

“I thought I killed him.” He said as his voice choked. “I honestly thought I killed him.”

Rarity watched Jackboot as he slouched to the ground as he began to cry.

“He really feels bad about it.” She thought.

She then sat down on the ground and hugged him, disregarding her dress.

“It’s alright Jackboot.” She said. “Shh…”

Jackboot sniffed. His sadness then began to thaw as Rarity held him.

“Are you alright?” She asked.

Jackboot nodded.

“I’m sorry if I’m being a bit of a cry baby right now.” He said. “I’m probably just ruining your evening.”

“Absolutely not.” Rarity said. “You’re my friend who is saddened, so I could care less about my evening.”

Jackboot then took a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped away his tears.

“Are you alright?” Rarity asked.

Jackboot nodded.

Rarity looked back at the doorway that led back inside.

“Jackboot, would you care to dance with me?”

Jackboot turned his so fast towards Rarity, his neck actually popped.

“I know it’s an odd question to ask after sharing such a moment, but I think it’ll be a way to cheer you up.” Rarity explained. “What do you say?”

“I, well…”

Jackboot didn’t see this question coming.

He then smiled.

“…sure, I’d love to dance with you.”

Chapter XVIII

“Oh that was so much fun!” Rarity said with delight.

Rarity and Jackboot had now returned to the castle after leaving Fancy Pants’ party. While they were there, Jackboot ran into an old classmate, Dive Bomber. Who of which had bullied him when they were in school.

As the two trotted down the hall towards the royal suite, they spotted a certain red pegasus walking down the other end of the hall.

“What the? What’s he doing here?” Jackboot asked.

His question wasn’t out of anger, but surprise.

The red pegasus turned and saw Jackboot.

“Hey Jackboot!”

He then flew over to the gray unicorn and landed in front of him.

“I thought I’d find you here.” He said. “How are you?”

“I’m well.”

Jackboot didn’t have anger in his voice, but legitimate surprise.

“What brings you here? Weren’t you supposed to report with the Wonderbolts?”

“I asked Spitfire if I could come and find you.” Dive Bomber explained. “I wanted to apologize.”

Jackboot was even more surprised. He came all this way to apologize?

“Really?”

“Yeah.” Dive Bomber said. “After I saw you today, it brought up some memories that I’m not proud of. So when I found out you were staying at the castle from Cookie, I decided to come and apologize.”

Jackboot was quiet as he calculated what Dive Bomber was saying to him.

“Although, unless you don’t forgive me, I understand.”

“Actually…” Jackboot finally said. “…I should be the one who should apologize.”

Dive Bomber and Rarity were both surprised.

“What?” The former said with confusion in his voice. “I bullied you and you’re apologizing to me? Why is that?”

“I’m apologizing for beating you up like I did.” Jackboot explained. “After all I did get expelled for it, so I guess you can say I was punished for it.”

“But looking back you were pretty justified.” Dive Bomber said. “After all what did lead to your watch getting broken. By the way, did you ever get it fixed?”

"I'd show you but I left it in Ponyville." Jackboot said. “And before you ask or say anything, yes, I do forgive you.”

“Really?!” Dive Bomber asked.

“We were colts were we not?” Jackboot asked. “Besides, after Rarity and I spoke earlier, I thought it rather pointless to hold a grudge.”

Dive Bomber produced a large smile on his face.

“Thank you, Jackboot.” He said. “It means a lot to me.”

The two stallions then exchanged a hoof bump. Little did they know, a certain lunar mare was watching.

Celestia yawned as looked up at the moon her sister had raised earlier. She was in the middle of looking over papers and scrolls.

Suddenly door opened and the Princess of the Moon, Luna, entered the room.

“Good evening sister.” She said. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything.”

“Good evening, Luna.” Celestia said in greeting. “And no, you’re not interrupting anything. I’m actually almost finished. Is there anything I can help you with?”

“Actually I came to tell you that I saw something you’d want to know.” Luna said. “I saw Jackboot earlier.”

“Oh, is he doing well?” Celestia asked as she rolled up a scroll.

“Apparently he had been reacquainted with an old classmate. If I am correct, it was the same one that had bullied him.” Luna explained. “And from what I seen, they had reconciled.”

“Oh that is very good.” Celestia said happily.

She then let out a small chuckle.

“What is funny, sister?” Luna asked.

“Have I told you how he ended up as my student?” The Sun Princess asked. Luna shook her head. “Well, as you know I’m friends with the principal of the school Jackboot had attended.” Luna nodded. “We were having tea one day and she had told me about this certain colt she had to expel for beating up another student. When he did so, he well, teleported.”

“Teleported?” Luna asked with interest. “At that age?”

“I was surprised as well, so I had to find out who this colt was.” Celestia continued. “When I found him, I asked him to enroll in the Magic School.”

Before Celestia could continue, a scroll suddenly materialized before her.

“What do we have here?” She asked as she took hold of the scroll.

“What does it say?” Luna asked as she approached her older sister.

Celestia cleared her throat before reading the letter aloud.

“Dear Princess Celestia

I know that I had just sent you a letter, but I couldn’t wait to tell you about this. I have had a very good day. How I had a good day, you ask? Well, I got to spend time with a very lovely mare. Her name is Octavia Melody, and she is just wonderful. She is a very talented cellist who will be performing at the Celebration this coming Friday. Anyway, I had the honor to sing in front of and her friend, who will also be performing at the Celebration. And guess what, they liked it! So I have been thinking of considering performing at the Celebration. I thought I‘d tell you that myself. Hopefully between then and now, and more hopefully after the Celebration, I get to spend more time with Octavia. As I have completely fallen head over hooves for her.

Yours ever,

Ballpin”

Celestia produced a smile on her face and Luna followed suit.

“I’m glad that he is doing well.” The latter said. “Has Jackboot learned about Ballpin yet?”

“No he has not.” Celestia said to her sister. “Either way, he had been a great help to Jackboot. From what I’ve heard from him, he is almost finished with his project.”

“I really hope to see this extraordinary device.”

“I too, Luna.” The Old Sister said. “I too.”

The doors to the royal suite opened as Jackboot and Rarity entered.

“I must say that I am proud of you Jackboot.” The latter said as Jackboot closed the doors. “Normally some ponies would merely just hold on to such a grudge.”

“Well, like I said, I find it pointless to hold on to a grudge.” Jackboot said as he took his homburg off. “Especially since it was over something from when we were just colts.”

Rarity threw herself down onto the bed with a loud, satisfied sigh.

Jackboot saw this and smiled.

A sudden idea came to his head, an idea that he immediately acted on.

He ran towards the bed and threw himself onto it, causing Rarity to bounce up from him landing, letting out a loud laugh.

The two looked at one another and smiled as they lied down.

“Such a beautiful mare.” Jackboot thought.

“Well I’m going to take a shower.” Rarity said as she stood up. “We have to get up in the morning if we want to go home. And you need to get those domes, yes?”

Jackboot nodded in agreement.

As Rarity walked over to the dresser and removed her jewels, the moonlight reflected off her mane like it had done earlier.

“So beautiful.”

That thought managed to slip out like it had done at Rarity’s boutique back in Ponyville.

“Did you say something darling?”

This time however, Rarity heard it.

Jackboot’s eyes went wide.

“Oh, nothing.” He said. “Just thinking out loud.”

Rarity smiled and nodded.

Despite this, Jackboot felt as if something was biting at him.

“Tell her!” A voice in his head shouted. “Tell her!”

Jackboot looked over at Rarity as she made her way towards the shower.

“TELL HER!”

“Rarity!”

Rarity flinched when Jackboot got her attention.

“My goodness, what is it darling?”

Jackboot realized that he had shouted.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to be that loud.” He with a chuckle. “Can I ask you something?”

“Of course.” She said. “With the way you got my attention it must be important.”

She then walked over to the bed and sat down next him.

“What did you want to ask me?” She asked.

Jackboot stood up and paced around the room for the moment before clearing his throat.

“What do you think of me?”

“What do you mean darling?” Rarity asked.

“Just, in general, what do you think of me?”

Rarity thought for a moment.

“For one, I think you’re very nice stallion. You’re hard working…” She said. “…you’re kind, you’re handsome…”

She suddenly stopped talking.

“What was that?” Jackboot asked.

Rarity sunk her head slightly.

“I said you’re…”

She then murmured the rest of the sentence.

“You think I’m what?” Jackboot asked, not understanding.

Rarity took a deep breath.

“I think you’re…” She seemed rather anxious rather than reluctant. “…handsome.”

Jackboot’s eyes went wide.

“Really?” He asked with surprise. “You think I’m handsome?”

Rarity looked finally looked at Jackboot and gave him a warm smile.

“I do. I think you’re one of the nicest, handsomest stallions I’ve ever met.” She said.

Jackboot’s heart fluttered.

“A-are…” He stuttered. “…you serious?”

Rarity nodded.

“I am. After all, a couple of oven screws don’t just pop off. And I did leave that cute little heart I put on the note I left you.”

“I knew it!” Jackboot thought.

“But, it’s not just because you’re handsome.” She continued. “You’re different.”

“How so?” Jackboot asked.

“Well, the other stallions I’ve had a crush on have been either already spoken for, not interested…” She then produced a look of displeasure. “…or is nothing but a complete buffoon. Like that idiot Blueblood. Seriously, what grown stallion is so frightened by a little cake frosting?”

Jackboot knew what she was talking about. He had heard Blueblood talking about how a mare covered in cake soiled his clothing and mane.

“But then I met you.” Rarity continued. “You were a Canterlot stallion who wasn’t rude, or snobby, or, well, taken.” She giggled. “Not only are you a good looking, but you’re not afraid of work either. Seriously, I can’t believe you were working all those several days on your own. Granted that friend of yours came, but still.”

Jackboot blushed.

Inside he could not believe that such a beautiful mare cared about him so.

“I think I should tell you what I think of you in return.”

He then sat down next to the mare.

“The minute I saw you, I thought of you as one of, if not the beautiful mare I have ever seen.” He said. “The other two being Celestia and Luna of course, but that’s without saying.”

Rarity was in shock. Did this stallion just compare her looks to that of the princesses?

“You think I’m that beautiful? That’s…”

She was at a loss of words.

“…that’s the sweetest thing anypony has ever said to me.”

“Rarity you deserve to be treated as such.” Jackboot said. “And…” He paused. “…I want to be the stallion to do so.”

Rarity then suddenly latched onto Jackboot with a tight hug.

Jackboot returned the hug.

“Yes!” He cheered in his mind. “She does like me!” She does like…”

His thought was suddenly cut by the feeling of lips being pressed against his cheek.

Rarity had just given him a kiss on the cheek.

The two then looked at one another eye to eye.

Before either of them could realize, the space between them was shrinking…

…and shrinking…

…and shrinking until suddenly, their lips had touched.

Jackboot’s mind was running at full throttle. It continued so as they both went from sitting upright, to falling onto the bed.

“I’m kissing Rarity!” He thought. “I’m kissing Rarity!”

The kiss was sweet. The taste of the mare’s lips was better than any candy Jackboot had ever tasted.

After what felt like an eternity. They parted to catch their breath.

They both had a gitty smile on their faces.

“That was…” Jackboot said. “…great…”

Rarity nodded in agreement.

“That was my first kiss.” The former said. “And I’m…” He took another breath. “…I’m glad it was with you, Rarity.”

Rarity smiled affectionately.

“Me too, darling.”

She then gave him a quick peck on the cheek.

“Me too.”

Chapter XX

“Come on Tank, keep up!” Rainbow Dash said to her pet tortious as the two flew over the town.

As she and Tank flew over the center of the town, she saw a familiar stallion trotting about.

“Oh look who it is.” She said. “Okay buddy, try to keep up.”

She then then zoomed down to the well-dressed stallion with her pet in toe.

“Hey, Jackboot!”

Jackboot did not respond, he continued to trot and looked around in a rather frantic manner.

Rainbow Dash grew concerned.

“Jack! What’s up?!”

The latter still did not answer.

“Come on Tank, something must be wrong.”

“Come on Spike, where are you?” Jackboot asked. “How could I be so foolish?”

As he trotted through the town, a sudden blue blur appeared in front of him.

“Jackboot!” The blur said.

Jackboot fell backward with surprise, his hat falling to the ground.

He looked and saw that it was Rainbow Dash hovering in front of him.

“Oh, Rainbow Dash.” He said. “Hello.”

“What’s up?” Rainbow Dash asked as Tank caught up behind her. “I was calling over to you. Are you okay?”

“Well I…” Jackboot said as he got up from the ground and put on his hat. “…no, I’m not alright.”

“What’s up?” Rainbow Dash asked, now standing on the ground.

“Well, Spike saw me and Rarity together and I think he’s heartbroken now.” Jackboot said. “Rarity and I are looking for him. You think you can help?”

“Sure, I’ll help you out.” Rainbow Dash said. “But, what do you mean by you and Rarity were “together”?”

“Is that really important right now?” Jackboot asked with annoyance.

“Well, it’ll help me understand the situation better.” Rainbow Dash answered. “So yeah.”

Jackboot sighed.

“Well, back in Canterlot…” He began. “…Rarity and I started to get really, well, friendly with one another.”

It didn’t take Rainbow Dash long for her to put two and two together.

“You two are a thing?” She asked with surprise.

Jackboot merely gave off a small smile and shrugged.

“That. Is. AWESOME!” The blue pegasus, throwing her front legs up. “I’m really happy for you two!”

Rainbow Dash then pulled Jackboot into a tight hug.

“Thank you…” Jackboot said with a strained voice. “…but anyway…”

“Oh sorry.” Rainbow said, letting the stallion go. “You were saying.”

“I helped Rarity get her luggage back to her boutique and I asked her if I cold kiss her again…”

“Again?!”

Jackboot gave Rainbow an annoyed look.

“Oh, sorry, go on.”

“…I asked if I could kiss her again, and apparently Spike saw it as we found small package of cupcakes in the hallway outside Rarity’s bedroom. So right now, she and I are looking for the little guy. Think you can help look for here?”

“Sure, I’ll help.” Rainbow said. “Where do you think he went?”

Spike didn’t know what to think as he sat alone under a tree at Sweet Apple Acres. Then again, it was pretty hard to think when he was crying uncontrollably.

“…R…Rarity…”

An apple fell and hit the ground with a noticeable thud.

Spike merely glanced at it before burying his face back into his claws.

“Oh, what’s wrong, pal?”

Spike looked around, tears still in his eyes, for whoever it was who spoke.

“Who…” He sniffed. “…who’s there?”

“Who’s there?” The voice asked. “You just looked at me and acted like I wasn’t there. How rude!”

Spike then looked back at the apple and noticed that it was different looking. Different, as in that it now had the face of the Spirit of Chaos himself.

Spike jumped when he saw the face blink.

The face then manifested onto the rest of the body.

“Sorry about that.” He said as he took a bite out of an apple. “You know I love making an entrance.”

Spike merely looked away.

“Leave me alone.”

This surprised Discord.

“What’s wrong?” He asked. “It’s rare that I see you like this.”

“I’m fine.”

Discord wasn’t convinced.

“Spike, you’re alone out here by yourself and you’re crying.” He said in a more serious tone. “Now tell, what is…?”

“I SAID I’M OKAY, ALRIGHT? NOW LEAVE ME ALONE!”

Discord was surprised by Spike’s reaction as he watched the purple dragon continue to cry.

He then sat down next to Spike and put his left claw on his shoulder.

“Spike, listen to me.” He said. “I’m your friend, and I want to know what it is that’s bothering you. And I don’t want to hear you say that you’re fine, because that little outburst you just had says otherwise.”

Spike sniffed as he looked at Discord, his eyes completely bloodshot.

“R…Rarity has…” He tried to say. “…Rarity has coltfriend…”

Spike could say no more and completely broke down as he grabbed onto Discord.

Discord wasn’t expecting Spike to grab onto him like he did, but given the situation, the last thing wanted to do is protest.

He softly patted Spike on the back.

“It’s alright Spike, let it all out.”

“So, how did you feel when you saw Rarity kissing Jackboot?”

Discord was now dressed in a suit and tie, a pair of glasses, and had a pen and notepad in hand. He sat down on an armchair while Spike lied down on a coach that would be found in a therapist’s office. There was even a small table with a box of tissues. Discord said earlier that he got the idea from a certain therapist he had met at one point, according to him, was named Wolf. Whether or not this therapist is a Wolf was yet to be answered.

“I felt, pretty bad about it.” Spike answered.

“How long have you had feelings for Rarity?” Discord asked as he wrote Spike’s answer down. “I assume long enough to have such a reaction.”

“I’ve known her since me and Twilight first came to Ponyville. I can’t believe it was so long ago.” Spike answered. “I still remember first seeing her. She was so beautiful.” He then paused and smiled. “Who am I kidding, she’s always beautiful.”

“I can’t argue with that.” Discord said as he wrote in the note pad. “But, how did you feel when you saw that it was Jackboot who was kissing Rarity.”

Spike’s smiled faded.

“I felt…” He had trouble answering. “…betrayed. I mean, I really thought we were friends. He knows that really like Rarity, but…” Spike sighed. “…I don’t know.”

Discord finished writing down in his notepad.

“Let me ask you a question.” He said. “Why is it that you waited so long to tell her how you feel?”

“I don’t know.” Spike said. “Well, there was that time I went a little crazy when I started hoarding stuff. But that I thought she really knew how I felt. Guess I was wrong.”

“And I assume you know that Rarity was going to meet a stallion eventually, right?”

“I know!” Spike shouted, unintentionally. “I mean, I know. I just didn’t think it would happen so soon.”

“Let me ask you a different question.” Discord continued. “Do you trust Jackboot?”

Spike looked at Discord with confusion.

“What?”

“Do you trust Jackboot?” Discord repeated his question.

“Of course I trust him, why wouldn’t I?” He said. “I don’t think Jackboot would do anything bad to Rarity. I mean he’s hard working, he’s cool, and he’s really just a good guy, to be honest. What do I need to worry a…”

It then came to Spike.

“…I think I see you’re point.”

“It’s not that you’re that worried about whether or not you’ll be with Rarity…” Discord explained. “…you’re more worried about who Rarity will eventually get to together with. Am I correct so far?”

“Actually yeah.” Spike said, now sitting up. “Just look at the other stallions she had crushes on. You have Fancy Pants who’s already taken, there’s Trenderhoof who was more interested in Applejack, and then you have Prince Blueblood who, from what I’ve heard is kind of a mule.”

“And then you have Jackboot”

“Who is actually a pretty decent stallion, unlike others.” Spike said. “I guess I really don’t have anything to worry about now.”

Before either of them could say anything more, they both heard a familiar mare calling over to them.

“Spikey Wikey!”

“Uh oh…” Spike said as he looked over at Discord. “…what do I do?”

“Just be calm, and tell her what we had just discussed.” Discord said as he made the furniture and his clothing disappear. “Good luck.”

As Discord was about to walk away, Spike got his attention.

“Oh and Discord…” He said. “…thanks.”

Discord smiled.

“Not a problem… …friend.”

Rarity trotted over to Spike as Discord strolled by casually.

“What are you doing here?” Rarity asked, noticing him.

“Just helping a friend out.” Discord answered.

Discord then disappeared, leaving Spike and Rarity alone.

“Spike, are you alright?” The latter asked.

“Yeah, I’m alright.” Spike answered as he approached the mare.

Rarity saw that he wasn’t as upset as she thought he might be. What did Discord say to Spike? She thought.

“Spike, I’m really sorry you had to find out this way. I didn’t mean to make you so upset.” She said. “I know how you feel about me but…”

“Rarity, it’s alright.” Spike said, interrupting Rarity. “If Jackboot makes you happy, I’m perfectly fine with it.”

Rarity was surprised by what Spike had said, but at the same time relieved.

She smiled.

“Thank you Spike.” She said as she pulled the little dragon into a hug. “No matter whom it is I’m with…”

She then kissed Spike on the cheek.

“…you’ll always be my Spikey Wikey.”

Chapter XXI

“Couldn’t find him anywhere.” Rainbow Dash said.

She and Jackboot were making their way to Twilight’s Castle. The two were searching for Spike when he had saw Jackboot and Rarity together. Ballpin joined had joined the two earlier. He had explained that he had finished installing the domes on the modules of the Electric Pentagon. All that was left was to build the internal mechanism.

It was very late in the afternoon, late enough to close the Metal Shop.

“Where do you think he went?” Ballpin asked, dodging Tank as flew alongside him.

“I don’t know. I just hope the little guy is alright.” Jackboot answered with a sigh. “How can I be so foolish? I can’t believe I forgot about his crush on Rarity. I mean he cares about her.”

Before anypony else could say something, Rainbow Dash spotted somepony in the distance. Well a certain somepony and a certain dragon walking alongside her.

“There he is!”

“So has Pinkie set everything up?” Rarity asked Spike.

“Last I spoke to her, the cupcakes was all that was left, so yeah.” Spike answered. “Speaking of which, did you get the cupcakes I, well, left for you?”

Before Rarity could answer, they heard a familiar somepony zoom past them.

“Spike!” The somepony shouted as she zoomed past.

Rainbow then slowed down and landed in front of Spike and Rarity.

“There you are Spike.” She said. “We’ve been looking everywhere for you.”

Spike was confused.

“We?”

Rainbow then pointed behind Spike. He looked and saw Jackboot and Ballpin trotting over.

“There you are.” Jackboot said as he caught his breath. “Spike, I…”

Spike then lifted a claw up, which caused Jackboot to stop talking.

“Jackboot, it’s alright.” He said. “If you and Rarity care for each other, I’m perfectly fine with it.’

Jackboot was surprised.

“Really?” He asked. “You’re not mad at me?”

“I wasn’t really mad, just surprised… …well, shocked.” Spike explained. “But still, I’m not mad.”

Spike then walked toward Jackboot and stuck his claw out.

“Friends?”

Jackboot smiled.

“Come here you!”

Jackboot then went and pulled Spike into a joyful hug.

“I think Twilight must be in here.”

Spike led his friends toward the castle throne room.

“What did she want to talk to me about?” Jackboot asked. “I didn’t do anything did I?”

“Don’t worry.” Spike said. “You’ll see.”

Spike then threw open the throne room doors and all of them were welcomed with a big surprise.

“Surprise!”

In the throne room were Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and the Cutie Mark Crusaders. The table in the center of the room was covered with different snack and a punch bowl. Balloons and screamers were spread throughout the room as well.

Jackboot was certainly surprised.

“Who’s the surprise for?” He asked.

“For you silly! It’s you’re Welcome to Ponyville Party!” Pinkie Pie answered as she bounced up to him. “Sorry if it took so long. You’ve been so busy.”

“Yeah, sorry about that.” Jackboot said as he rubbed the back of his head, just Tank hovered into the room.

“It’s perfectly fine, Jacky.” Pinkie said as she hugged the welled dressed stallion. “Now go on, enjoy yourself. Let’s get the party started!”

The party was in full swing. Everypony was either eating or drinking something while conversing with one another. A record player also played in the corner.

“So how’s that Pentagon thing comin along?” Applejack asked. “Did you get them domes?”

“I did, thankfully.” Jackboot said. “Ballpin said he got the domes installed. And thanks to him I have all the materials I need.”

“I can’t wait to see your invention work.” Twilight said with excitement. “But can you really find a black crystal before Friday?”

Jackboot took a long swig of his punch. He knew full well the answer to Twilight’s question, and he knew the cost of it.

“It appears I’m out of punch.” He said. “You want me to get either of you anything while I’m at the table?”

“How was everything in Canterlot?” Ballpin asked. “You said you were checking on your boutique?”

“I did yes.” Rarity answered after nibbling on an apple fritter. “Everything was fine as usual.”

“Didn’t you say you and Jackboot went to a party while you there?”

“We did. And my goodness it was a great party.” Rarity answered with a joyful sigh. “I swear I must make a note to visit Fancy Pants more often.”

“Yeah, his parties are always fun.” Ballpin said before taking a big bite out of his cupcake.

This caught Rarity’s attention.

“You’ve been to one of Fancy Pants’ parties?” She asked.

Ballpin’s eyes went wide as he as wiped some of the frosting from his face.

“O-Oh, I mean…” He struggled to find an explanation. “…I heard it from a relative, yeah, a relative.”

There was a brief silence before Ballpin found a different subject to talk about.

“D-Do you know a mare named Octavia?” He asked. “Octavia Melody?”

Rarity recognized the same.

“Who hasn’t?” She asked. “She one of the best cellists around. Why do you ask, darling?”

“Well…” Ballpin felt embarrassed to say. “…she and I had spent some time with one another yesterday.”

“Oh really?” Rarity was getting invested. “Do tell more.”

“We got along well.” Ballpin continued. “I even sang for her and her roommate. And I’ve… …well, got a liking to her.”

“Well, have you told her about how you feel?” Rarity asked.

“No, but something interesting did happen earlier.” Ballpin continued. “I was working on the Pentagon at the shop and Octavia walked in. Want to know what she wanted? A hug.”

“A hug?”

Rarity was surprised by what Ballpin had said.

“She told me that she was a little stressed from working on a piece she’s going to perform at the Celebration this Friday. She said she could’ve gotten hug from Vinyl, but she’s in Manehattan.”

“Did she ask anything else of you?” Rarity asked, fully invested in Ballpin’s story.

“Well she did ask if I wanted to do anything afterward, but I had to turn her down.” Ballpin explained. “But I said I’d go with her another time.”

“Well that’s good, Ballpin.” Rarity said. “I hope things work out with you and Octavia.”

She then turned to make her way toward the table of snacks.

“And I must say…” She said. “…you have good taste in mares.”

A full two hours had passed since the start of the party. Half of all the snacks were gone and everypony started to make their leave.

Jackboot took a bite out of a cookie as Pinkie Pie bounced in front of him.

“Did you enjoy the party, Jacky?” She asked.

“I did.” Jackboot said after swallowing the rest of his cookie. “I really appreciate your throwing this party.”

Pinkie then pulled him into a tight hug.

“It’s no trouble at all bestie!” She said. “I just can’t wait to throw your birthday party.”

Jackboot laughed as Pinkie let him go.

“I can’t wait either.”

Pinkie then smiled at him before bouncing away.

“Did you enjoy the party darling?” Rarity asked as she approached Jackboot.

“I did.” Jackboot said. “I really did.”

Before Rarity could say something else, everypony heard a loud crash of thunder.

“Is that thunder?” Jackboot asked.

“Oh, riiiiight…” Rainbow Dash said with a hint of embarrassment in her voice. “…I forgot that since it didn’t rain last week, it’s going to come down pretty hard this evening.”

“Nice planning weather manager.” Applejack said.

“In that case I better get going.” Fluttershy said. “I’ll see all of your tomorrow.”

Everyone have their goodbyes as the yellow pegasus left the room.

“Come on Scoots, you can stay with me tonight.” Rainbow said to the younger pegasus. “How does that sound?”

“Really? Yes!” Scootaloo said with joy.

“In that case, me an Applebloom are going to high tail it home.” Applejack said. “See y’all tomorrow.”

After saying their goodbyes Rarity and Sweetie Belle made their way to the door. Ballpin had already left after saying his goodbyes as well.

“Mind if I walk the two of you home?” Jackboot offered. “After all, Rainbow Dash did say it was going to be a downpour.”

“We would appreciate that.” Rarity answered. “Thank you very much.”

“Yeah, thanks.” Sweetie Belle added as she opened the door.

As the door opened, the three unicorns were met with what looked like a wall of water.

“Jeez!” The filly said in surprise. “How are we supposed to get through that?”

Twilight trotted up to them from behind.

“There’s no way you’re going out in that.” She said. “Guess you two will have to stay here until the rain passes.”

“Yay! Sleepover!” Sweetie Belle said with joy.

“Spike, could you get the guest rooms ready?”

Spike nodded and before he could make a step away from the ponies, Rarity got his attention.

“Spikey, I think you’ll be preparing one bedroom.”

She then looked over at Jackboot and winked, causing his cheeks to turn red.

“Yeah, one room apparently.”

“Mind if I help, Spike?” Sweetie asked.

“Sure, come one.”

The filly then followed the drake down the hall away from the adults.

“In that case, I’ll be right back.” Jackboot said as he made his way toward the door.

“Where’re you going?” Twilight asked.

“I left my suitcase over at the boutique.” Jackboot explained. “I’ll just teleport over there and grab it right quick. Back in a moment.”

“Okay, now grab the other corner.” Spike said a she grabbed the corner of the bed sheet.

Sweetie Belle did so as she stretched the sheet across the bed.

“Okay, now grab the blanket and we’ll do the same thing.”

“Got it.”

Sweetie then brought the blanket over with her magic and set it on the bed.

As Spike adjusted the blanket, Sweetie Belle decided to start some small talk.

“So, Rarity told me about what happened.” She said. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah I’m fine.” Spike said as he made sure the blanket was fully aligned with the bed. “If Rarity is happy with whoever she’s with, then I’m happy for her.”

Sweetie smiled.

“Wow, Spike.” She said. “That’s pretty grown up of you.”

“Well, I have Discord to thank for it.”

Sweetie was surprised by who Spike said who helped him. Out of the names he could have said, she was most certainly not expecting Discord’s.

“So, who are you going to court now?” She asked as she sat down on the bed.

“I don’t know really.” Spike answered as he sat down next to Sweetie. “Rarity was the only mare I really cared for. I never really had an interest in anypony else.”

Sweetie then scooched closer to Spike.

“I know you’ll find somepony else.”

She then put her hoof around the dragon.

“I know you will.”

Spike looked at the filly and smiled.

“Thanks Sweetie Belle.”

Jackboot flashed into the middle of Rarity’s Boutique.

“Okay, I think I left it in Rarity’s room.”

He climbed up the stairs and into Rarity’s room, where his suitcase lay.

“There it is.”

As he approached the suitcase, he heard something scurrying across the floor. He turned to see what it was.

“Oh, hello Opal.” He said as the white Persian began to rub against his front leg.

Opal meowed several times.

“What is it kitty?” Jackboot asked as he lowered his head to the cat’s level.

Opal meowed once more and walked towards the bedroom door, looking back at Jackboot.

“Want me to follow you?”

Opal then meowed and then scurried out into the hall.

“I’ll take that as a yes.”

Jackboot followed Opal down the stairs and into the kitchen, where Opal stopped in front of two bowls, both of which were empty.

“Oh you’re hungry, I see.” Jackboot said. He then trotted over toward the cabinets and searched through each of them, until he found a large bag of cat food. “Bingo.”

He then took hold of the bag and carried it over to Opal’s bowl. He until the clip which kept the bag closed and poured the bowl full.

After closing the bag with the clip, he saw that the other bowl was empty.

“Water.”

He put the bag back into the cabinet and picked up the bowl and brought it over to the sink. Just as he put the bowl under the spout, Opal jumped onto the counter and planted a paw on the bowl.

“What is it?”

Opal then hoped down onto the floor and then went to the fridge and patted her paw against the door.

Jackboot opened the fridge and saw that there were several bottles of water.

He then looked down at Opal who meowed.

“Seriously? Bottled water?”

Opal meowed.

“Alright then.”

Jackboot set the water bowl back next to the food bowl. He then took out one of the bottles and brought it over to the bowl and emptied it into the bowl.

“Happy?”

Opal meowed and then began to eat her food.

“Very well.”

Jackboot the disappeared back up the stairs and returned with his large black suitcase.

“Well I’m off.” He said to Opal. “I’ll see you next time Opal.”

Opal payed no attention to Jackboot.

“Okay…”

Jackboot’s horn began to glow, causing him and the suitcase to do the same.

When the light went away, Jackboot realized that his suitcase was gone, but he was still at the boutique. The only difference being that he was a foot away from where he originally standing.

Before he could ask what went wrong, he knew the answer right away.

“Oh right, it’s pouring out.”

He then walked over to the window and looked, seeing nothing but the wall of rain.

He sighed.

“Guess I’ll have to make a break for it.” But I don’t want to leave Rarity’s door unlocked.” He then thought of an idea. “I’m close enough to the window. Guess I’ll have to…”

His horn then began to glow, along with the rest of his person.

He then suddenly felt his clothing becoming wet.

“…run!”

Ballpin poked his head from under the tree.

“Thanks for saying that it was going to rain, Rainbow Dash.” He said sarcastically. “You were a real help.”

He flinched when several droplets fell through the branches and hit his yellow mane.

“This would be a good time to use that shield trick.”

As he pondered on this idea, he spotted somepony running through the rain.

“Hey, over here!”

The somepony, who didn’t hear him, instead the pony fell over, face planting into a muddy puddle.

Without a second thought, Ballpin ran over to the pony.

“Are you okay?” He asked. “Come on, follow me.”

He then pulled the pony over to the tree, where the rain was less forceful.

“Are you okay?” He asked the pony again.

Before the pony answered, she flung her wet mane out of her face, revealing a pink bowtie around her neck.

“Octavia?” Ballpin said with surprise. “What are you doing out in the rain?”

“I was about to ask you the same question.” Octavia said. “I was having a small dinner over at the Clover Café and it then started to pour like it is now.”

Ballpin looked around the surrounding area.

“You’re house is around here isn’t it?”

“It is, yes.” Octavia answered. “Although it might be a long while before this blasted rain dies down.”

The idea from earlier came back to Ballpin’s head.

“Are you okay to run?”

“I think so… …ow!”

“What is it?”

“Ow, my knee.” Octavia said as she put a hoof to her front left leg. “I must’ve scraped it.”

Ballpin look at the Octavia’s knee, and at the blood that leaked from it.

“Yeah you did.”

Another idea came to mind.

“Do you trust me?”

Octavia was confused.

“Pardon?”

“Do you trust me?”

“Of course I do, why?”

Instead of answering, Ballpin’s horn glowed and shot a beam of light at Octavia, in casing her in a white bubble.

“What in the world?”

“And now here comes the interesting part.”

Suddenly Octavia felt her bubble begin to levitate from the ground. She saw that the stallion’s horn was glowing, which showed that he was the source of the levitation.

“Hold on to something!”

Spike and Sweetie Belle were walking down the hall when they heard what sounded like a loud, electrified poof.

“Did you hear something?” Sweetie Belle asked.

“Maybe it was Twilight or Jackboot teleporting.” Spike said. “It must’ve been one of them.”

The two entered the throne room, seeing Twilight and Rarity setting the table. Their dinner consists of vegetable soup and bread.

“Smells good in here.” Spike said as he and Sweetie approach the two mares. “I bet it tastes good as well.”

“Grab a bowl and you’ll find out.” Twilight said.

As Spike and Sweetie Belle found a seat, they all heard the sound of a door being thrown open before being slammed shut.

“That must be Jackboot.” Spike said as his bowl was being filled with soup.

The doors of the throne room were then opened by a well-dressed stallion who looked like he had just gone for a swim.

“My goodness, darling!” Rarity said as she trotted over to him. “You’re soaked. What happened?”

Jackboot took a breath.

“Well, apparently…” He said but was interrupted by a sudden shiver.

“You need to go a take a shower.” The alicorn said. “Right now.”

“You don’t need to tell me twice.”

Jackboot then turned around made his way out of the room, emitting a squishing sound.

“We’ll save you some soup, darling!”

“That’s so much better!”

Ballpin exited the washroom of Octavia’s house as he tied his handkerchief back around his neck. Octavia had finished her shower before him and had offered to prepare some tea for the two of them. He saw the gray mare set the tray of tea onto the coffee table. He saw that her mane was now stylized in its normal form. A bandage was wrapped around her knee, and it seemed to not bother her one bit.

“Have a nice shower?” She asked, seeing him walk into the room.

“I did, thank you very much.”

Ballpin sat down on the sofa, thanking Octavia as she handed him a cup of tea.

“I thank you again for helping me out of the rain, Ballpin.” She said. “I really appreciate it.”

Ballpin sipped his tea.

“This is very good tea.” He said. “You just can’t beat good old Darjeeling.”

“You’re familiar with this tea?” Octavia asked.

“I’ve been around.” Ballpin replied.

A brief silence filled the room as the Octavia and Ballpin drank their tea.

“Maybe I should say something.” The latter thought. “But what?”

He looked over at Octavia who smiled at him.

“So…” He said. “…how was your day?”

“Rather boring.” The mare answered. “Especially if you’ve been up for so long like I have.”

Ballpin nodded as he took another sip of his tea.

“That was a boring question.” He thought, scolding himself. “Think of something else.”

He spent almost a minute thinking of something, till Octavia caught his attention.

“It’s really pouring out there isn’t it?” She asked as she looked out the window.

Ballpin looked out the window as well.

“There’s no way you’re going out there.” Octavia said. “I think it would be best if you stayed the night.”

Ballpin turned his head toward Octavia so quickly, his neck actually popped.

“Really?” He asked with enthusiasm is his voice. Noticing this, he cleared his throat. “I mean, really?”

“Yes, I certainly don’t want you catching a cold.” Octavia explained. “After all, consider this as repayment for helping me earlier.”

Octavia then stood up from her spot on the sofa.

“I’ll go and get you a pillow and blanket.” She said. “I’ll be right back.”

“Thank you, I appreciate it.” Ballpin said.

Octavia then smiled and walked out of the room.

Ballpin the pumped his hoof into the air.

“Yes!” He quietly said. “Thank you rain.”

Chapter XXII

Current Time: 5:21 AM, Tuesday

Rarity stirred as she began to wake up.

“Uh… ….hmm…” That was all she could say. Her vocal cords needed a couple of seconds to wake up as well. She looked at the clock and groaned seeing that it was almost half past five in the morning. With her line of work, she often had to wake up pretty early.

She looked around the room and saw that she wasn’t at the boutique.

“W-where…?”

She then looked to her right and saw that there was somepony in the bed. Even with the lack of light in the room she could make out the chocolate maned stallion leaning on his left side.

“Oh, right.” She said with a smile. “I’m in Jackboot’s room.”

She then glanced back at the clock and then back at the stallion before her.

“Just a little longer.”

She then lied down next to Jackboot and put her front legs around her gray lover.

She let out a quiet sigh as she snuggled up to Jackboot, feeling his chest rise up and down as he breathed.

“Just a… …little…” Her words slowed as she began to drift back to sleep. “…longer.”

Blue Collar put the key into the lock of the Metal Shop.

A drop of water ran off the roof and fell on the top of his head.

“That enough water for ya?”

Blue Collar turned and saw his grandson approaching him, the ground squished beneath him.

“Morning Ballpin.” He said. “Where were you last night?”

“I was on my way home last night but I gotten caught in the rain.” Ballpin explained. “Not to mention I helped a certain somepony get home safely. Especially since she scrapped her knee.”

Blue Collar opened the door to the shop and entered, waving for Ballpin to follow.

“Oh really?” He asked. “Who was this somepony?”

“Octavia.” Ballpin said as he closed the door behind him. “You know. The mare I told you about.”

“Oh yes, the mare who came all the way here for a hug.” Blue Collar said with a smile. “You two seem to get along pretty well. When are you two going to get together again?”

“I’m not sure, really.” Ballpin answered. “Maybe at lunch.”

As Ballpin turned some of the lights on, something came to his mind.

“Speaking of getting together, did you hear about Jackboot and Rarity?”

“No, what about them?” Blue Collar asked.

“They got a little friendly when they were in Canterlot.” Ballpin explained. “Long story short, they’re essentially a couple now.”

“That’s good. Good for them.” Blue Collar said. “Speaking of Jackboot, where is that stallion?”

Before Ballpin could answer, the door burst open and a familiar unicorn came panting in.

“I’m… …I’m here…”

“There he is.” Blue Collar said. “Jackboot, Ballpin just told me about you and Rarity. Congratulations.”

“Tha… thank you.” Jackboot said as he gasped for breath. “Sorry I’m late. I was having breakfast with Rarity and Sweetie Belle and I lost track of time.”

“It’s alright Jackboot, we just got here.” Ballpin said. “With that out of the way, let’s get to work.”

Frosted Cookie trotted through the center of town. She had arrived in Ponyville earlier to help cater the Summer Sun Celebration. She had dropped off her suitcase at the local Inn and was now looking for something to eat. She is supposed to meet a mare named Pinkie Pie.

“Sugar Cube Corner, Sugar Cube Corner.” She said. “Where do I find Sugar Cube Corner?”

Her question was answered by the sight of possibly the most flamboyant looking building she’s ever seen. If she didn’t know better it looked like she could take a bite out of it.

“Answers my question.”

She trotted up to the building and went through the doorway. She looked saw that a short line at the front counter and decided to join it. Behind the counter was a blue mare with a mane that was reminiscent of the icing on a cupcake.

After the three ponies in front of her got what the ordered, it was Cookie’s turn.

“Hello there, what can I get you?” The blue mare asked.

“Yes, I’m looking for somepony named Pinkie Pie.” Cookie said. “I was told I could find her here.”

A look of realization came over the mare’s face.

“You must be Frosted Cookie.” She said. “It’s nice meet you, I’m Cupcake. Pinkie is out doing deliveries; she’ll be back in a while. Feel free to wait here if you want.”

Cookie ordered a piece of chocolate cake and several sugar cookies.

As she went to find a seat, two particular ponies sitting at a table caught her eye immediately.

“Jackboot! Rarity!”

The two looked and smiled upon seeing the Canterlot mare.

“Cookie, when did you get here?” Jackboot asked as stood up.

“Just a while ago.” Cookie answered.

Cookie set her plate down on their table and exchanged a hug with Jackboot.

“It’s good to see you again Cookie.” Rarity said as she gave her a hug as soon as Jackboot sat back down.

Cookie then took a seat at the table with Jackboot and Rarity and began to feast on her sweets.

“So did you come all the way here to see me?” Jackboot asked with a sly grin on his face.

Knowing that it was a joke, Cookie smiled before swallowing her mouthful of cake.

“I’m here to help cater the Celebration.” Cookie explained. “I’m supposed to meet somepony named Pinkie Pie, but she’s out on deliveries.”

Almost on que, the pink mare walked through the front door. She spotted Jackboot and Rarity and trotted over to them.

“Hey guy two.” She said happily. “How’s it going? Enjoying your food?”

“We are, thank you.” Rarity said. “By the way, Frosted Cookie here is here to see you.”

Cookie looked at Pinkie and smiled.

“It’s nice to meet you Pinkie.” She said. “I hope we get along w…”

Cookie was cut off by Pinkie latching onto her.

“It’s so good to meet you!” She said. “We’ll get along perfectly!”

She then let go of Cookie and took hold of her hoof.

“Follow me, I’ll show you the kitchen.”

She then turned to Jackboot and Rarity.

“I’ll see you love birds later.”

Pinkie and Cookie then disappeared into the kitchen.

Jackboot stood up from his seat and wiped his mouth.

“I have to get back to the shop.” He said. “I’ll see you later.”

Rarity then wiped her mouth and stood up. As she did so, Jackboot suddenly let out a loud cough in which he quickly covered his mouth.

“Oh Darling, are you alright?” Rarity asked.

Jackboot took a breath.

“Yes, I’m alright. Just a little tickle.” He said. “Anyway, maybe I’ll see you after work?”

“Of course.”

Rarity and Jackboot the exchanged a brief kiss.

“I’ll see you later, Darling.”

“Two points!” Rainbow Dash shouted as she bashed through two clouds at once.

After the large rainstorm from the night before, Rainbow Dash was making sure the weather was on under control.

She then set her sights on a decently sized to her left.

“Oh, you are so mine.”

She charged at it with as much force as he wings would allow.

Before she even entered five feet away from the cloud, it suddenly burst.

Dash screeched to a halt.

“Did that just happen?” She asked with confusion.

She then saw another cloud.

“Okay, now you are mine.”

She then sped towards that cloud, only for it to burst like the last. This time on the other hand, she managed to catch sight of what appeared to be a red blur.

Dash was starting to get annoyed.

Suddenly, she then thought of an idea.

She set her sights on a cloud that was almost directly over the Metal Shop.

“Oh well, I guess I’ll just go and bust that one.” She said aloud.

She then sped towards the cloud, but halfway there, she immediately stopped. As she stopped, she finally saw the culprit as he rocketed through the cloud. A red pegasus.

Without a second thought, Dash zoomed after the second pegasus.

After what seemed like a minute, Dash managed to get in front of the newcomer.

“Gotcha!” She said, pointing her hoof at him.

The red pegasus stopped in his tracks.

He had a red and yellow mane and tail and wore a six pointed blue and gold star around his neck.

The red stallion produced a smirk on his face.

“Nice to see you caught on.” He said.

He then extended his hoof forward.

“Dive Bomber.”

Rainbow looked at his hoof and shook it.

“Rainbow Dash.”

“Thank you again for lunch, Ballpin.” Octavia said.

She, Vinyl, and Ballpin had just had finished lunch at the Hay Burger

“Yeah, thanks man.” Vinyl added. “It’s nice to finally eat something after a long train ride.”

“Don’t they have concessions back on the train?” Ballpin asked.

“Yeah but they don’t got any hay burgers.” Vinyl explained. “Besides, I’ve been trying to cut down on the sugar. That’s what Minuette told me at my last check up.”

“I thought her name was Colgate.” Octavia said. “Maybe I’m thinking of somepony else.”

“Well, I’d love to stay and talk about names with you ladies…” Ballpin said. “…but I have to get to work. I’ll see you two later.”

The three exchanged goodbyes and went their separate ways.

As Ballpin neared the shop, he saw that there were two pegasi waiting for them. He recognized one of them thanks to her rainbow mane, but he didn’t know who the red one was.

“Must be a new customer.”

Jackboot coughed as a he trotted towards the metal shop

“Geez, what’s wrong with me?” He asked himself.

His question was followed by another cough.

He was about to pull his key from his pocket, when he heard what sounded like pounding coming from inside.

“Guess one of them got here before me.”

He then opened the door and pushed it open, in which he was welcomed with two pegasi.

“Oh hello, Rainbow Dash, hello…” He then recognized the second winged pony. “…Dive Bomber? When did you get here?”

“About an hour ago. The Wonderbolts sent me to hold their reservations over at the Inn.” Dive Bomber explained. “I must say, you got a nice town.”

“Did you come here with Cookie?” Jackboot asked as he closed the door. “Because she’s probably about knee deep in cake batter at this point over at Sugar Cube Corner.”

“I assume so.” Dive Bomber said.

Ballpin came from the back room, carrying what appeared to be necklace.

“Good as new. Next time, look where you’re going.” He said. “Now I just need to weigh it, and see how much you owe.”

Ballpin placed the necklace on the scale and saw that the needle on it barely moved.

“Since it is under a pound, you owe me two bits.”

Dive Bomber pulled out two golden bits and set them on the counter.

“Thanks Ballpin. You’re alright.” He said. “I’ll see you all later, I’m going head to over to that Sugar Cube Corner place I heard so much about.”

“I got to get going to too.” Rainbow Dash added. “Those clouds ain’t going to bust themselves.”

The two pegasi left the shop, leaving the two unicorns alone.

“So, how many modules do we have left to work on?” Jackboot asked. “We have three left, right?”

“Yes, we do.” Ballpin answered. “Then we got the core module to work on.”

“Good let’s get to…”

Jackboot suddenly let out a loud cough, which surprised Ballpin.

“Jeez, are you okay?” He asked. “That sounded like it hurt.”

Jackboot took a breath.

“Yes, I’m fine. Let’s get to work.”

Chapter XXIII

Current Time: 7:32 AM, Wednesday

Twilight Sparkle trotted into the kitchen and saw Spike preparing breakfast.

“Morning Spike.” She said. “Watcha making?”

“Just some eggs.” He answered. “Want some? Sunnyside up or scrambled?”

“I’ll take scrambled, if you please.” The alicorn answered.

“Good because I already scrambled them.”

Twilight chuckled.

She then looked over at the breadbox.

“I think I might make some toast to go with it.” She said as she made her way to the counter. “Care for a slice?”

“Sure, two please.”

The dragon and princess pulled stools up to the preparation table and began to feast upon their breakfast.

“This is very good Spike.” Twilight said. “Could you pass the salt?”

“Sure.”

Spike slid the salt shaker to Twilight as he returned to buttering his toast. He then put some of the egg on the second slice and ate it all like a sandwich.

As Twilight wiped her mouth, she took notice of the clock in the room.

It was now almost eight o’ clock.

“Have you seen Jackboot?” She asked. “He’s usually up at this point.”

Spike swallowed the last of his toast and egg.

“Nope, guess he isn’t up yet.”

As the two put their dishes in the dish, they heard the sound of the kitchen door opening.

“M-Morning…” A dreary voice said.

The two turned and saw Jackboot entering the room.

“Morning, Jackboot.” Twilight said. “Forget to turn your alarm on?”

“No…” Jackboot said. “…I couldn’t find the will to get…”

Suddenly Jackboot coughed really hard, causing his hat to fall off.

“…get up.”

Concerned, Twilight approached her friend and put a hoof to his forehead.

“Oh my goodness, Jackboot...” She said with worry. “…you’re burning up. Come on, let’s get you back to your room.”

She then turned to Spike.

“Spike, go and find the thermometer.”

Spike entered Jackboot’s bedroom. Who of which was sat on the bed.

“Got the thermometer.”

Twilight thanked Spike and took hold of the thermometer and stuck in Jackboot’s mouth.

“Hold this under your tongue.”

Jackboot complied and kept the thermometer in place.

After a minute, Twilight took the thermometer from Jackboot’s mouth and was surprised by the number the mercury landed on.

“Sweet Celestia!” She said. “One hundred and five!”

“Don’t worry Twilight. I’m fine.” He tried to stand up. “I’m just going to take a couple of pills and I’ll be fine by lunch.”

“Oh no, you’re not going anywhere.” Twilight said. “You’re staying in the bed right here.”

“But Twilight, I’m fine.”

“Oh really? In that case, how come you were having trouble getting out of bed earlier?”

“Haven’t you had one of those days?” Jackboot asked.

“He’s got a point.” Spike said.

The purple alicorn turned her head gave her assistant an annoyed look.

“Oh, I’m not helping.” He said. “Sorry.”

Twilight then sighed.

Suddenly, she then thought of a way that’ll make sure that he’ll stay in this room. Something she'd never thought she'd eve have to say.

“Jackboot…” She began. “…as the Princess of Friendship, I hereby order you remain in this room until you’re better!”

Jackboot’s eyes went wide. He mostly certainly didn’t see this coming.

He let out a sigh.

“Okay…” He said. “…as your wish, Princess Twilight.”

“Very well.” Twilight said. “Do you need anything right now? Some water?”

“Not at the moment. I’ll lie…”

Jackboot paused as his breathing started to quicken.

“I’ll just…”

His face started to go pale.

“I’ll…”

He suddenly felt his mouth fill with saliva and his stomach begin to heave.

“Bathroom!”

He then bolted for the door. He then looked around the hall before turning to the princess and dragon.

“Where’s the bathroom!?”

Twilight answered his question by making her horn glow and zap Jackboot, making him disappear.

This caught Spike off guard.

“Where’d he go?”

His question was answered by the sound of the most violent sounding vomiting he’s ever heard coming from down the hall.

“I’ll check if he’s okay.” Twilight said. “I think you know what to do, Spike.”

“Careful, careful.” Ballpin said to himself as he hammered a nail in place.

He was in the middle of Town Square where a lot of ponies were working on stalls for the Summer Sun Celebration, which was the day after tomorrow. The stall he was helping set up belonged to the Cakes, and was making sure the sign was in place.

He wasn’t alone as Pinkie Pie and a light brown unicorn named Frosted Cookie was helping.

“Perfect!” Pinkie said. “Thanks a lot Bally!”

“No problem.” Ballpin said as he hoped of the stand. “Anything else you need help with?”

“Nope, not right now anyway.” Cookie said.

As Ballpin gathered his tools, a red pegasus touched down right behind Cookie.

“Gotcha!” He said as he wrapped his front legs around her.

Cookie chuckled.

“Hi honey.”

She and the pegasus exchanged a brief kiss.

“Like the sign.” He said. “Build it yourself?”

“Well, not on my own. Pinkie and Ballpin here helped me out.”

The pegasus approached the two.

“Nice to meet ya, ma’am.” He said. “I’m Dive Bomber, Wonderbolts reserves.”

“You’re with the Wonderbolts?!” Pinkie asked with glee. “Does that mean you know Rainbow Dash?”

“Yeah, we met one another yesterday.” Dive Bomber said. “And how are you Ballpin, you doing good?”

“I’m doing well.” Ballpin said. “I’m a little busier today. With Jackboot being sick and all.”

This caught the unicorn and pegasus’s attention.

“Is he okay, what happened?” Cookie asked.

“He got caught out in the rain the day before yesterday.” Ballpin explained. “From what I heard from Spike, he had to make a desperate trip to the washroom if you understand my meaning.”

“You think he would mind if we stop by?” Dive Bomber asked. “Just to see how he’s doing.”

“I was actually on my way there.” Ballpin said. “I was going to grab some food from the Hay Burger on the way. If you’re interested you can come along.”

“Everything okay in there, Jackboot?” Spike asked from outside the washroom door.

“Yeah I’m… …one moment!”

Spike then heard Jackboot start to loose what he had for breakfast. Or what was left.

“I’m going to grab you some more water. I’ll be right back.”

Spike made his way down the hallway, until he heard the sound of somepony knocking at the door.

“Coming!”

He opened the door and was greeted by two unicorns he recognized.

“Hey, Rarity, hey Ballpin, what’s up?”

He then noticed that there was another unicorn and a pegasus accompanying them. These two he didn’t recognize.

“Never seen you two before.” He then stuck out his claw in greeting. “I’m Spike.”

“I’m Dive Bomber.” Dive Bomber said shaking the Dragon’s claw. “And this is my girlfriend Frosted Cookie.”

“Just call me Cookie.” Cookie said as she shook the dragon’s hand.

Spike then sniffed the air and was met with a familiar aroma.

“Is that…?”

“Yes it is, Spikey Poo.”

Rarity then floated over a white paper bag that said “Hay Burger” on it.

“Wow thanks!” Spike said as he took hold of the bag.

“We all thought we’d have lunch with Jackboot.” Ballpin said. “Is he doing well?”

His question was met by the faint sound of sickness coming from down the hall.

“Oh come on, where’s all this coming from!?” Jackboot asked loudly in the distance.

“I don’t think he’ll be able to eat, but I think he’d enjoy some company.” Spike said. “Come on.”

The toilet flushed as Jackboot wiped his face with a moist towel.

“This is getting annoying.” He said to himself.

He opened the door and slowly walked out.

As he made his way for his room, he heard a familiar call his name that caused his spirits to rise.

“Jackboot, there you are darling!”

A smile grew on his face as he turned around.

There trotting down the hall was Rarity.

“Oh, hey.” He said.

Rarity stopped in front of. She was rather surprised by what she was looking at. For one thing Jackboot was not wearing any of his clothing, his hat, or his boots. But it wasn’t the first time she seen him like this. What really surprised her was that his face looked so pale.

“Are you alright?” She asked.

“I’m alright.” Jackboot said. “I must look terrible don’t I?”

“Nonsense, you still look handsome as the day I met you.” Rarity said.

She then approached him to give him a kiss.

Jackboot backed up.

“As much as I would like a kiss from you. I don’t want you getting sick.”

“But I’m already sick.” Rarity said.

She then suddenly leaned forward and planted a kiss on Jackboot’s cheek.

“Sick with love” She said with a wink.

As Jackboot blushed, he spotted Spike and three other ponies behind him. Some of them were holding familiar white bags.

“Had I known I was having visitors, I would’ve freshened up a little.” He said jokingly.

“Alright so the stage will be set here?” Twilight asked.

“Yes it will. As you see we’re making some real progress.” Mayor Mare answered.

Twilight was in the square overseeing the organization of the Summer Sun Celebration. From the entertainment to the food, everything must be perfect.

Blue Collar approached the Princess and the Mayor.

“I just spoke to Granny Smith and the Apples.” He said. “According to them they have enough Cider to fill the Ghastly Gorge and enough pies and fritters to feed an army or two.”

“Okay good, thank you Blue Collar.” Twilight said.

“Anytime, Princess Twilight.” Blue Collar said in return. “Have you seen Ballpin anywhere? We need to get back to work.”

“Last I saw him he was heading over to the Castle.” Twilight answered. “He’s probably seeing how Jackboot is doing. I hope he’s doing well. He couldn’t keep food down earlier.”

“I see. I think I might give him a visit. I haven’t seen him in a while.” Blue Collar said. “I’ll see you later, Princess.”

“And that’s why you should never taste the rainbow.”

Everypony in Jackboot’s room laughed after hearing Dive Bomber’s story.

Jackboot’s stomach was a lot calmer this time around. As a precaution, Rarity had cut up his burger into smaller pieces. According to her, it was so he wouldn’t risk his stomach taking so much at once.

“Thanks again for the Hay Burger by the way.” He said. “I just hope I can keep it down long enough.”

“Don’t worry, darling.” Rarity said. “It’s been, how long has it been since you last, well, expelled?”

“I think it’s been like I don’t know, maybe almost twenty five, thirty minutes.” Cookie said. “I don’t know.”

“What’s it say on your watch, Jackboot?” Dive Bomber asked as he wiped his mouth.

Jackboot’s eyes went wide. He completely forgot that he told everypony that he left the watch here in Ponyville.

Now that he was here in Ponyville, what excuse did he have now.

Before he could even think of one, there was a knock at the door.

“Thank Celestia!” He thought. “Come in!” He said.

The knob of the door turned and opened in inward and in came Princess Twilight.

“Having a party in here?” She asked, seeing the amount of ponies in the room. “How are you feeling Jackboot?”

“A lot better than before.” Jackboot answered. “I’m managing to keep my food down.”

They were all joined by Blue Collar.

“How you feeling, Jackboot?” He asked. “I haven’t seen you in a while.”

“I’ve been doing well.”

Blue Collar then introduced himself to Cookie and Dive Bomber.

“Well, I hate to ruin you’re fun, but Ballpin and I need to get back to work.”

“Okay.” Ballpin said with disappointment. “I hope you get better, Jackboot. We still have to work on the main module.”

“Oh, that’s right.” Jackboot said. “And we still need to figure out how to make sure the charge doesn’t backfire. But we’ll cross that bridge when we get there.”

“Okay, well I see you tomorrow.”

Ballpin and his grandfather left the room.

“I need to get going too.” Cookie said. “I got to help out at Sugar Cube Corner. Between baking and looking after the babies, the Cakes and Pinkie need all the help they can get. See ya later, Jack.”

“Well, I got to get back and help Mayor Mare organize.” Twilight said. “Will you be okay on your own Jackboot? Because I’m going to need Spike’s help.”

“Don’t worry, darling. I’ll look after him.” Rarity said. “The boutique is closed today until after the Celebration, so I have a lot of time on my hands.”

“In that case, I’ll see you two later.” Twilight said. “Come on Spike.”

Spike then bid his farewell and followed Twilight out, closing the door on the way.

The room went quiet for a moment.

“So, how was your day?” Jackboot asked.

“It was nice.” Rarity answered. “I helped out Rose and the other mares from the flower store, spoke with Fluttershy, she was convincing all the gofers not to dig around the square, and then I ran into Octavia and Vinyl, they’re doing well. What about you?”

Jackboot shrugged his shoulders.

“To put it bluntly, I just slept, drank water, talked to Spike, and vomited all day.” He said. “And now I’m talking to you. So, my day is going pretty well.”

Rarity then got onto the bed lied down next to him.

“So what are you going to do tomorrow?” Jackboot asked. “Because I might be available once my illness goes away.”

Rarity then wrapped her front legs around Jackboot’s left front leg and nuzzled him.

“You might want to be careful; I don’t want you getting sick because of me.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll be fine.” Rarity said. “By the way, thank you so much for feeding Opal.”

“It’s no problem at all.” Jackboot said.

Something then entered his mind.

“You mentioned Octavia earlier, right?”

Rarity nodded.

“You know that Ballpin has a crush her, you know.”

“Oh yes, he told me himself.” Rarity said. “Why do you ask?”

“Well, I probably should’ve told him, but it didn’t come to mind till now.” Jackboot explained.

Rarity was confused.

“What do you mean, darling?”

Octavia set her cello on its stand after spending some time practicing.

“Almost sun down already.” She said as she stretched. “I think I’ll have some evening tea.”

As she waited for the water to boil, there was a knock at the door.

“I wonder who that is.”

She trotted over to the door and opened it, revealing the knocker to be a familiar blacksmith.

“Oh, good evening Ballpin. Please, come in.”

Ballpin followed Octavia into her house.

“I hope I’m not interrupting anything.” He said.

“Oh don’t worry, I just got done practicing.” Octavia said. “I really feel like I got this piece down. Care for some tea?”

Ballpin accepted the mare’s offer and took a seat in the living room.

Several minutes later, Octavia came into the room with a tray of tea.

“Thank you, Octavia.” Ballpin said as he accepted a cup and saucer.

He took a sip of the hot drink as Octavia took a seat.

“So how was your day, Ballpin?” She asked.

“It was nice.” Ballpin answered. “Helped set some stalls up and I went and saw how Jackboot is doing.”

“Is he alright?”

“He’s fine.” Ballpin said after taking another sip of his tea. “He got caught out in the rain the other day and he got pretty sick.”

“I hope he’s alright.” Octavia said.

Ballpin looked upon the mare who sat near him as she drank her tea.

“It’s now or never.” He thought.

“Octavia, can I ask you something?” He asked.

“Of course, Ballpin, what is it?” Octavia asked as she set her cup and saucer down.

Ballpin then cleared his throat.

“Octavia I…”

Ballpin was then interrupted by a knock at the door.

“I wonder who that is.” Octavia said. “Pardon me, Ballpin.”

The gray mare hoped up from her seat and trotted to the door and opened the door.

“Surprise!” Said a male voice from outside the door.

“Oh sweet Celestia your back!”

Octavia practically lunged at the unseen stallion.

Ballpin grew concerned. Who was Octavia talking to?

“Please come in!”

Octavia then returned inside the house followed by a stallion Ballpin has never seen before. He had a grayish blue hide, a dark blue mane and tail, gamboge eyes, and a cutie mark that consisted of two black music notes.

“Noteworthy this is my friend Ballpin.” Octavia said. “Ballpin, this is Noteworthy, my coltfriend.”

Chapter XXIV

Current Time: 12:23 PM, Thursday

“Come on, come on.” Twilight said as she tapped her hooves on the train platform with excitement. “When’s the train going to get here?”

“Twilight, calm down.” Spike said. “Cadence and Shining will get here soon enough.”

“Sorry Spike, it’s just that I’m so excited!” The purple alicorn said. “I haven’t seen them since they told us about their baby!”

Suddenly the air was pierced with the sound of a loud whistle.

“Here it comes!”

The crystal train rattled along the track just as the brakes emitted its loud screech, grinding it to a halt.

As soon as the train stopped moving, the air was then filled with the fanfare of royal trumpets. The door to the train car opened and out came two royal guards. One on the left was a crystal pegasus, while the one on the right was an orange pegasus with a blue mane.

“Presenting, the Princess of Love and the Empress of the Crystal Empire, Cadence…” The orange guard said. “…and presenting the Captain of the Crystal Guard, Shining Armor!”

On que, the pink alicorn and white unicorn stallion walked out from the train car and onto the platform.

“You’re highness.” Cadence said as she and her husband bowed.

“You’re highness.” Twilight said as she bowed in return.

After a quiet moment, the two mares began to laugh.

“It’s good to see you Twilight.” Cadence said as she opened front legs open. “C’mere.”

Twilight then found herself entangled in a hug with her sister in law.

“It’s been too long Twily.” Shining Armor added as his younger sister gave him a hug.

“You’re room is all set up back at the castle.” Spike said. “Want me to get your bags?”

“Thank you Spike.” The Princess of Love said. “Flash Sentry will help you.”

She then nodded to the orange stallion, who of which made his way to where the bags were held.

“Here I come!” A new voice shouted form inside the train.

Everypony looked and saw a green unicorn mare trotting out of the train car wearing a red ascot around her neck while carrying a large suitcase with her magic.

“Enjoy your nap, Emerald?” Cadence asked.

The green mare put her suitcase down.

“I did, thank you.” She said. “Sorry about that, I almost left with the train.”

Cadence chuckled.

“It’s alright. Let me introduce you two.” She then directed her attention to Twilight. “Emerald, this is Twilight Sparkle, the Princess of Friendship. Twilight, this is Emerald Button, the mother of the creator of the mechanical wonder that we’re going to see tomorrow.”

Jackboot, finally better from his illness from the day before, was finally almost finished with the core module of the Electric Pentagon. He had finished the inner workings of the module. The inner workings were much more complex than with the outer modules, as it had a rotary mechanism which held five tubes of twittermites set up in a circle. The center of the circle was a smaller circle which consisted of five crystals, which were red, blue, yellow, green, a pin, with the clear command crystal in the center. Above the circle of crystals was currently vacant as it was meant for the most important piece of the mechanical puzzle. The Black Crystal.

Ballpin wasn’t with him as Jackboot convinced him to go on his lunchbreak. He had also noticed that Ballpin seemed to be rather down about something, when he would ask him; Ballpin would merely say that he either didn’t get that much sleep. Despite not being convinced, Jackboot decided it let it be for the time being.

“I’m the Jack to the B, to the double O and T…” He sang to himself as he reached for the last tube of twittermites. “…and ain’t no other stallion pound that metal like me, I’m Jackbootlicious!”

“I bet you are, darling.”

“WHAO!”

Jackboot jumped, flinging the glass tube into the air.

The tube was then suddenly surrounded by a light blue aura of magic.

Jackboot turned around saw that it was a familiar white mare.

“Oh, Rarity, what a surprise.” He said with a pant. “I didn’t hear…”

He then realized that there was a second mare in the room.

“Mother!”

He then trotted over to the green mare and put his front legs around her as she did the same.

“When did you get here?” Jackboot asked as he let his mother go.

“Just did earlier.” Emerald said. “Along with a couple other ponies who want to see you and your little project. I think you might be a little familiar with them.”

“Oh really?” He asked. “Who are they?”

“Ask them yourself.”

Emerald then turned to the doorway.

“You two can come in now!”

Just then entered a tall white stallion with a blue mane and a pink alicorn mare with a multicolored mane donned with a golden tiara.

“Hello, you must be Jackboot.” Princess Cadence said. “Shining and I have heard so much about you.’

“The pleasure is all mine Princess Cadence, Shining Armor.” Jackboot said as he carefully shook each of their hooves in greeting. “I know it’s a bit late at this point, but congratulations on getting married.”

“Why thank you, Jackboot.” Shining Armor said. “Emerald told us that you helped with the repairs after the Changelings attacked.”

“I did.” Jackboot confirmed. “But I couldn’t stay long. I had to go and clean the house and the old shop. A couple of Changelings thought it would be good idea to use the shop to set up a nesting ground. I swear the shop smelt terrible for weeks.”

The ponies chuckled at this.

Shining Armor then noticed the six modules behind Jackboot.

“Is that the Electric Pentagon we heard so much about?” He asked.

“Indeed it is. Please, have a look.” Jackboot said, waving the royal couple over to the core module.

The two trotted to the module as Jackboot took hold of the tube of twittermites that Rarity had saved from destruction.

“As you see, this one is the core module, the most important part of the pentagon.” Jackboot explained. “You see, each module uses these twittermites.” He held up the tube of twittermites. “The twittermites are what create the charge that is needed. Thanks to the command crystal, it is able to transfer the charge to each of the five outer modules, all of which contain a tube twittermites. All of which take hold of said charge.”

“I was made aware that it can create an image of some sort.” Cadence said. “How does that work.”

“That is where the crystals come in.” Jackboot said as he placed the twittermite tube into the core module. “This device requires a total of thirty six crystals, well thirty seven counting the black crystal. These crystals are colored different and are required to be a certain size and weight. There are six blue, six red, six green, six yellow, six pink, and six command crystals, of which were created with the help one Zecora, who will be present tomorrow, I’ll take note to introduce you. Anyway, that’s how the image is produced; now here is the interesting part, the black crystal. Pardon me a moment.”

Jackboot then turned around and disappeared in a bright flash.

“Where’d he go?” Cadence asked.

Before anypony could answer, the flash returned and disappeared, leaving Jackboot in its place, holding something that was wrapped in a brown cloth.

“May I introduce…” Jackboot removed the cloth revealing a large, black crystal the size of a grapefruit. “…the black crystal.”

Emerald’s eyes almost went as wide as the crystal.

“This is right here is what makes the Pentagon go.” Jackboot continued. “You see, only a unicorn can operate this device. How to operate it is that you use your magic to both take hold of the black crystal and the rotary assembly that holds the tubes. And as you know, an irritated twittermite causes a small discharge of electricity; put a lot of irritated twittermites into a group and the discharge becomes larger. Now combine one tube of irritated twittermites with multiple tubes of them, and the discharge is even larger. Since the operator has a hold of the crystal and the assembly, the crystal begins to absorb the charge. When you apply a large charge of electricity to a black crystal, it does some pretty strange things, such as enabling the ability to synchronize with the operators mind. Through which, you can create any image you wish.”

“What sort of images do you plan on creating for tomorrow?” Rarity asked.

“I’m glad you asked my dear.” Jackboot said with a smile. “I had Ballpin, he’s a colleague of mine by the way, place several advertisements around town for suggestions. I’ve been getting letters all day.”

Shining Armor raised his hoof.

“Do you have a question?” Jackboot asked.

“How did you find the black crystal anyway?” Shining Armor asked. “Because this doesn’t seem like you could find it just anywhere.”

Before Jackboot could come up with an answer, his mother spoke up almost immediately.

“Could it have something to do with the disappearance of your watch?” Emerald asked.

Jackboot’s eyes went wide.

“W-What do you mean, mother?” He asked.

“You never go anywhere without your watch.” Emerald explained. “It might be the possibility that you might have forgotten it in Ponyville. But since you’re here in Ponyville, where is it?”

Jackboot was at a loss of words. He knew his mother was smart, he never doubted that in the least, but he never expected that she was aware of the situation the entire time. But now, there’s no other way out.

Jackboot sighed.

“It’s…” He began. “…It’s gone.”

Ballpin swallowed part of his hay burger as he sat at a table at the Clover Café before letting out a sigh.

Last night Ballpin had visited Octavia to ask her to be his special somepony. But there was a problem. A stallion by the name of “Noteworthy” showed up, revealing to be Octavia’s coltfriend. As a result, Ballpin felt as if his heart had fallen out of his chest and shattered on the ground.

As he looked upon his half eaten hay burger, he heard somepony calling over to him.

“Excuse me are you Ballpin by any chance?”

Ballpin looked over and saw a pegasus standing there. It was a stallion with a cornflower blue coat with a dark, grayish blue mane. His cutie mark appeared to be a swooped cloud with a lightning bolt striking the center of it.

“I’m him.” Ballpin said. “Who are you?”

“Oh where are my manners…” The stallion then offered his hoof in greeting. “…Soarin. I’m pretty sure you don’t recognize me without my uniform.”

Ballpin’s eyes almost burst from his head.

“Soarin, as in Soarin of the Wonderbolts?” He asked with amazement as he shook the pegasus’ hoof.

“The very same.” Soarin said. “Anyway, I’m glad I found you.”

Soarin then pulled out a pair of flying goggles. The rim of the left lens was cracked.

“If it’s not too much trouble, I was wondering if you could fix it.” He said. “This is the third time I cracked my goggles and if Spitfire finds out she’ll have my flank on a platter. Could you please do me a solid? I’ll even pay for your lunch.”

Ballpin’s eyes went wide. Was one of the “Big Three” of the Wonderbolts really asking him for help? If it were another pony, it wouldn’t be that much of a big deal, but this was Soarin. How could he say no?

“Of course, I’ll help.” He said. “And you don’t have to pay for my lunch.”

“Hey, it’s alright man, I insist.” Soarin said as he sat down in the seat across from Ballpin. “Besides, I’m starving. We had to cut breakfast short.”

A waiter trotted over and took Soarin’s order, a large piece of apple pie and a glass milk to wash it down.

After the waiter left, Soarin looked back over at Ballpin who suddenly had a look of sorrow on his face as he chewed.

“You okay?” He asked.

Ballpin swallowed.

“Yes, I’m alright.” He answered. “Why do you ask?”

“You looked like a mare said no to you.” Soarin said. “Trust me, I know that feeling.”

Ballpin sighed.

“Well, she didn’t exactly say no.” He said. “But she might as well have, given that she was already taken.”

Soarin was surprised on how on the mark he was.

“Sorry to hear that buddy… …thank you.” Soarin’s pie and milk had arrived to their table mid-sentence. He took a good forkful of the pie before continuing. “It’s never a good feeling for a mare to say no.”

Before either of them could say anything else, a third pony approached them.

“Ballpin, there you are!”

The two looked and saw a blue stallion with a pair of music notes for a cutie mark trotted up to the table.

“I knew I’d find you around here.” He said. He then noticed the Wonderbolt and introduced himself.

“Nice to meet you Noteworthy.” Soarin said before taking a gulp of milk.

“Anyway, I’m glad I found you Ballpin.” Noteworthy said. “I wanted to say thank you for helping Octavia when she scraped her knee like that. You have my respect.”

“Really?” Ballpin asked.

He wasn’t expecting this at all; then again, he wasn’t expecting to meet a member of the Wonderbolts either.

“Yeah, seriously. What you did was a really good thing.” Noteworthy said as he pulled up a chair. “I’d buy you lunch but it seems to me that you beat me to it.”

“Order what you want man, I’m buying.” Soarin said after swallowing another mouthful of pie.

“Might as well.” Noteworthy said as flagged down a waiter. “And still Ballpin, thank you very much.”

“I hope Jackboot has a big appetite.” Frosted Cookie said as she and Dive Bomber approached the metal shop.

Cookie carried a Hay Burger bag that was filled with several hot hay burgers and fries.

“He probably does now that his stomach isn’t like it was yesterday.” Dive Bomber said. “I hope so anyway.”

As they approached the metal shop, they saw a familiar green mare exit through the front door.

“Hello Emerald!” Dive Bomber called over. “How are you?”

“I’m doing well.” Emerald said. “I just got here earlier.”

She then saw the Hay Burger bag on Cookie’s back.

“Looks like you got some lunch.” She said. “There isn’t anything sugar related in there, right?”

“No, why do you ask?” Cookie asked.

“Well Jackboot is forbidden from anything sweet until tomorrow. He is also to come straight home… …I mean, straight to the Castle after he’s finished with whatever needs to be done.”

“So, we can’t have lunch with him?” Dive Bomber asked.

“Oh you can have lunch with him.” Emerald said. “He’s in the middle of a break anyway. He’ll need a break to rest his hoof after all the writing I made him do.”

“What did he do anyway?” Cookie asked. “If you don’t mind me asking.”

Chapter XXV

The pencil clattered against the counter top as Jackboot dropped it from his hoof. He had spent the past half hour writing, “I will never lie to my mother ever again, no matter the reason” one hundred times, without using his horn. Earlier he had told Emerald what had happened to his watch. His mother was understanding for the reason of why he had to give that dragon his watch, but she didn’t take to kindly to that fact that he had lied to her about what had happened and writing that he would never lie to her even again till his hoof went sore was his punishment, along with not being allowed anything sweet until tomorrow.

As he began to caress his sore hoof, the door opened and entered Frosted Cookie carrying a Hay Burger bag.

“Afternoon, Cookie.” Jackboot said. “How’s it going?”

Before Cookie could answer, a red blur zoomed passed her and stopped at the counter. This blur being Dive bomber.

“Hey Dive Bomber, how…”

Before Jackboot could finish his question, Dive Bomber grabbed him by the collar and pulled him where they were now muzzle to muzzle.

“Why did you do it?!” Diver Bomber asked with anger.

“What do you…?”

“Tell me why!” Dive Bomber said, interrupting Jackboot again.

Cookie set the bag on the counter and pulled her coltfriend off of Jackboot.

“Dive Bomber just calm down, please?”

Dive Bomber took a breath and let Jackboot go.

“Sorry.”

Jackboot’s eyes were wide after what had just happened.

“You want to explain why you got into my face like that?” He asked.

“He just heard about what happened to your watch.” Cookie answered. “And he’s a little…”

“I spent all these years feeling guilty for breaking your watch and you go and give it away?” Dive Bomber asked, cutting of his marefriend. “How could you do that?!”

“Dive Bomber!” Cookie shouted.

Dive Bomber immediately went quiet.

“How about you let Jackboot explain?”

Cookie then turned to Jackboot.

“Jackboot could you please explain? Because Dive here didn’t hear the whole story.”

Jackboot cleared his throat.

“As you know, the Electric Pentagon requires several command crystals.” He explained. “This process involves soaking crystals of a certain size in a special concoction. I managed to accomplish this thanks to the local Zebra by the name of Zecora.”

“There’s a Zebra here?” Cookie asked with interest.

“There is, yes. She’s in the Everfree Forest, I’ll introduce you sometime.” Jackboot said. “Anyway…” He continued. “…she required certain ingredients for it to work. As I was looking for one certain ingredient until I fell down this hole and into a cave where I found the ingredient I was looking for. While I was looking for a way out, I came across this large part of the cave that was just packed full of these gems and treasures of all kinds. Thankfully this part of the cave had the way out.”

“Well that’s good.” Cookie said as she took a hay burger out from the bag. “What happened then?”

“Well as I made my way toward the opening, this large tail just came and slammed down in front of me, blocking me in.” Jackboot explained. “Apparently that cave was the den of a dragon, which explains the gems. He thought I had taken something of his so he told me to empty my pockets. Despite that I didn’t take anything, he still wouldn’t let me leave unless I give him my watch.”

Dive Bomber’s eyes went wide.

“I told him I wasn’t going to give it to him, but he wasn’t going to take no for an answer. But then he offered me this if I gave him the watch.”

Jackboot entered the work room and returned with something in his hoof.

“The black crystal.”

The stallion and mare were amazed by the large crystal.

“This right here is what makes the Electric Pentagon possible.”

“And you traded your watch for that?” Dive Bomber asked. “I mean, I’m glad you’re okay, but still, you could have just run away when you had the chance.”

“Do you really think I could have out run a dragon?” Jackboot asked as he set the crystal down. “Besides, sometimes you have to make sacrifices. I think father would’ve understood.”

“How do you know that for sure?” Dive Bomber asked.

Jackboot sighed.

“I don’t know.”

Dive Bomber thought for a moment.

Just as Jackboot reached his hoof into the bag and pulled out a hay burger, something clicked in Dive Bomber’s head.

“I have an idea.”

Ballpin opened the door to the metal shop and found no pony there. With him was Soarin, one of the Big Three of the Wonderbolts. He had acquired Ballpin’s assistance with repairing his goggles; otherwise he’d get into some hot water with Spitfire. While they were talking back at the Clover Café, Ballpin was approached by a stallion named Noteworthy, the coltfriend of Ballpin’s former crush, Octavia Melody, who had come to Ballpin to say how grateful he was for Ballpin helping Octavia when she scraped her knee when she had gotten caught in the rainstorm the other evening. Since then, Ballpin had no more feelings of sorrow in regards finding out his crush was already taken.

“Jackboot, you here?”

Ballpin got no answer.

“Must be out.” He said. “Follow me, Soarin.”

The Wonderbolt followed him into the workroom. He then handed Ballpin the goggles. Ballpin then set the goggles down on the work table and took a closer look. The crack wasn’t large but was still noticeable.

“This just needs a little sealant and some paint to cover it.” Ballpin said. “This’ll take a moment.”

Ballpin retrieved a bottle from a shelf and squeezed a small amount of white liquid into the crack.

“Just let that dry for a moment.” He said as he re-tightened the cap on the bottle of sealant.

As Ballpin returned the bottle to its original place, Soarin caught his attention.

“So, Ballpin…” He said. “…what kind of mares are you into?”

Ballpin turned.

“Pardon?”

“What kind of mares are you into?” Soarin asked again.

Ballpin didn’t see this coming, and then again he wasn’t expecting to being talking to one of the Wonderbolts today so what else is new?

“Well…” Ballpin was trying to think of an answer. “…they have to be a mare for one thing.”

Soarin laughed.

“Well that’s obvious.” He said. “What I mean is, what do you like in a mare?”

Ballpin thought for a moment.

“Let’s just say I’ve often aimed a little too high when it comes to mares.” He said. “You know, the ones that are clearly out of my league but I go for anyway them… …I mean, them anyway.”

“I know what you mean.” Soarin said. “It really is heart breaking when they say no to you.”

“You do realize Octavia didn’t say no, right?”

Soarin understood and returned to subject at hoof.

“Define “too high”.” He said.

“You know, smart, pretty, well mannered.” Ballpin said, listing off the traits that one would tribute to a Canterlot pony. “Like I said, out of my league.”

Soarin nodded.

“I hear ya.” He said. “I’m asking because I got this friend of mine who’s in the same position you’re in.”

This caught Ballpin’s attention.

“Really?”

“Yeah, really.” Soarin said before continuing. “She's this friend of mine who's been having trouble in the dating game. She can't seem to find the right stallion, ya know? How would you like to...?"

“Meet up with her?” Ballpin asked, finishing Soarin’s sentence.

“Yeah, that.” Soarin said. “What do ya say?”

Ballpin thought for a moment.

“Where do you want me to meet her?”

“How ‘bout the Clover Café?” Soarin suggested. “Sound good? Even though you already had lunch there?”

“Well...”

Ballpin took a moment to think.

“…why not? I’ll need a break after Jackboot and I finish the Pentagon.”

“Geez, it’s creepy around here.” Dive Bomber said as he looked around at the surrounding wilderness.

“Yes, I found the Everfree rather unsettling myself.” Jackboot said.

The two stallions trotted their way through the Everfree Forest. Dive Bomber’s earlier idea involved going back to the cave which the dragon, who Jackboot gave up his watch too, lived and try and steal the watch back. The current trouble that they were having was finding the cave itself and avoiding the local wildlife.

“This is a really stupid.” Cookie said who had tagged along.

“You know, you don’t have to come if it’s so stupid.” Dive Bomber said.

“I’m only coming along in the event one of you messes up.” Cookie responded.

Dive Bomber was about to say something when Jackboot suddenly flinched backward.

“Here we are.” He said as he looked down into the dark cave. “This is it.”

Jackboot began to descend into the cave when Dive Bomber grabbed hold of Cookie.

“Hold on.” He said as he wrapped his legs around the mare.

The three made it to the ground floor of the cave without incident.

“Alright, follow me.” Jackboot said as his horn began to light. “And stay close, it’s easy to get lost down here.”

It took what felt like almost ten minutes searching the cave before the three found where they were going.

“Shh, be very quiet.” Jackboot said.

He then poked his head into the large cave that was pile high with gold and other treasures. Behind one large pile had a large green mass behind it.

“There’s the dragon.”

Jackboot then turned and saw the tunnel that led to the other entrance, or exit in this case.

He then turned his attention to his friends.

“Alright, here’s the plan.” He began to explain. “I’m going to encase the dragon in a bubble of silence, that way we can look through each of the piles until we find the watch without waking it up.”

“And maybe we can sample some of the treasures as well.”

Dive Bomber and Jackboot immediately looked at Cookie.

“What?” She asked. “Can you blame a mare wanting nice things?”

“That explains the bags you brought.” Jackboot said, looking at the saddle bags Cookie wore.

“Well the lot of these treasures were already stolen.” Dive Bomber said. “So maybe it’s not a bad idea. After all, ponies pay a lot for gems.”

“You two can trot out of here with a million bits worth of gems.” Jackboot said. “As long as we find my watch, I don’t care what either of you take. Either way, let’s get this over with before big green over there wakes up.”

Jackboot walked ever so quietly over to the dragon with his horn at ready.

The loud breathing of the dragon caused shivers to go down Jackboot’s back.

He then swallowed as his horn began to glow, until finally, the dragon was encased in a large white bubble.

“Okay you two, let’s start looking!” He called over to his friends.

Dive Bomber dove into one pile while Cookie began stuffing her saddle bags full of gold and gems, while looking for the watch at the same time.

Gems and gold clattered against the cave floor as the three searched.

“Find it yet?” Dive Bomber asked Jackboot as he tossed gem after gem over his shoulder.

“Nope, not yet.” The latter answered. “I did find some sapphires, though. You think Rarity would like them?”

“Maybe she would.” Cookie said. “Toss them in my bag for later.”

As Jackboot put the sapphires into Cookie’s bag, Dive Bomber called over to them frantically.

“Jackboot! I found it! I found it!” He called, waving his hooves around with a metallic object in one of them.

Jackboot rushed over to the red pegasus.

“Are you sure?!” He asked as she screeched to a stop.

Dive Bomber allowed the gray unicorn to look at the watch, who instantly recognized it.

“It is!” He shouted as he embraced the red stallion before. “Thank you! Thank you!”

“Um… …Jackboot…” The pegasus said. “…I need air!”

“Oh sorry.”

Jackboot let Dive bomber go and began to secure the watch to his vest. He then clicked it open, finding that it was still ticking.

“Still works.” He said as he closed it again. “Now let’s get…”

He was suddenly cut off by the sound of something breathing. Breathing deeply and loudly.

Jackboot, with widened eyes, slowly turned his head to find the giant green head several feet away.

“What are you doing here?” The dragon asked with anger burning in his voice.

Jackboot took a step back.

“Well you see…”

Jackboot then teleported to where his friends were, standing right next to the exit tunnel.

“…RUUUN!!!”

Chapter XXVI

The tunnel echoed with the sound of fast paced hoofsteps.

Dive Bomber carried Cookie who wore the saddle bag of treasure as he flew while Jackboot ran as fast the red pegasus could fly. The three ponies had just gotten Jackboot’s watch back from the lair of the dragon who Jackboot had given to the other day when he had gotten himself cornered by the titanic reptile.

The stomping of the dragon followed behind the three. That being followed by a loud roar.

“Keep going! Keep going!” Dive Bomber shouted. “Wonderbolts training, don’t fail me now!”

They managed to get to the exit of the cave and out into afternoon sun.

Before they could catch their breath, the dragon roared again.

“Oh sweet Celestia we can’t lead him into town.” Jackboot said.

Dive Bomber set Cookie down on the ground.

“Cookie, go back into town and get help.” He said. “Get the Wonderbolts, Princess Twilight, heck, go and find Faust herself. Just get somepony.”

Cookie then exchanged a brief kiss with the pegasus. Before Cookie could say something else, Dive Bomber beat her to it.

“And yes…” Dive Bomber said. “…I’ll be careful.”

Cookie smile and exchanged one last kiss with him before running for help.

A loud roar caught the two stallion’s attention, both of which said in unison.

“Let’s do this!”

“So then I saw these cheerleaders that were pretty cute looking…” Soarin said as he was telling Ballpin about an incident that had happened during tryouts for the Equestria Games as the two hung out in the waiting area of the metal shop. “…you see, I wasn’t paying attention, that’s when I hit this pole at full speed, clipping my wing.”

“That must’ve hurt.” Ballpin said as he sat on the counter.

“It did.” Soarin continued. “That’s one of the reasons why…”

“…why you’re late for practice?”

Soarin immediately spun around and saw two familiar Wonderbolts entering the shop, one of them wearing a pair of sunglasses.

Soarin tried to look as innocent as possible.

“O-oh, hey Spitfire…” He said. “…how’s it going?”

“It’s going to get pretty bad in a moment if I don’t hear an explanation of why you’re not at practice.” The shades wearing mare said with disapproval in her voice. “Right… …now.”

Before Soarin could begin to explain himself, Ballpin chimed in as he hoped off of the counter.

“It’s my fault ma’am.” He said. “I had a few one too many questions.”

Spitfire looked at Soarin and then back at Ballpin.

“Well, I guess I can forgive that.” She said. “After all, Soarin’s ego can get the best of him sometimes.”

“Hey!” Soarin said with displeasure.

Ignoring her subordinate, Spitfire removed her glasses.

“Nice to meet ya.” She said as she extended her hoof in greeting. “Spitfire’s the name.”

“Oh, I know you are who.” Ballpin said as he shook the Wonderbolt’s hand He then realized his error. “I mean, who you are.”

Ballpin’s attention was then caught by the sight of the third Wonderbolt. The mare had artic blue fur, fuchsia eyes, and a light gray mane and tail that was almost white. Her cutie mark was that of a horseshoe within a yellow arch.

Soarin took notice of this and moved in.

“Since she’s been quiet this whole time, I’ll speak for her.” He said. “Ballpin, meet Fleetfoot.

“Nice to meet you.” The mare said.

“And you as well.” Ballpin said.

Before he could interact with the Wonderbolts further, heard what sounded like something shaking. As if somepony had a back of coins or other metallic objects in a bag and was shaking it rapidly. This sound was followed by a familiar brown mare barreling into the shop, almost knocking Spitfire over.

“Oh jeez, what’s the rush?” The yellow Wonderbolt asked.

Ballpin recognized the mare that was now gasping for her breath with several bits and gems now scattered on the floor.

“Cookie?” He said with surprise. “What happened? And where did these gems come from?”

“Jackboot… …Dive…” She gasped, evidence that she had been running for a long distance. “…dragon… …in trouble.”

Ballpin and the Wonderbolts looked at one another and then back Cookie.

“I’m sorry…” Spitfire said. “…did you just say dragon?”

Cookie nodded.

Without a word, Spitfire nodded to her fellow Wonderbolts.

“That’s all I need to hear.” She said as she put her sunglasses on. “Now where is little dragon of yours?”

Jackboot jumped out of the way as the dragon’s tail swung over him.

“This is getting ridiculous!” He shouted as he picked up his cap.

Dive Bomber delivered a blow with his hind legs to the dragon’s face before getting swatted away like a fly.

“You’re telling me!” The pegasus said as he landed next to Jackboot. “I just hope that Cookie managed to… …heads up!”

Dive Bomber zoomed and Jackboot teleported ten feet away as a large breath of fire scorched the ground which they used to stand. As the latter regain his composure after the teleport, he received a hard swipe from the dragon’s tail, knocking him into the tree line.

Dive Bomber watched his friend go zooming into the shrubbery like a rocket.

“It’s this way, keeping going straight!”

Cookie led Ballpin and the Wonderbolts through the woods as fast as she could. It was much easier to do so as she didn’t have what felt like a ton of treasures on her back. What made it more easier was that she and Ballpin were being carried by the flying heroes.

“So let me get this straight…” Spitfire said as Cookie was being carried by Fleetfoot. “…Jackboot gave up his watch to a dragon for a part for this contraption of his, so Dive Bomber got the idea to steal it back, and that plan has gone wrong. Right?”

“Yeah pretty much.” Cookie said. “Right now they’re holding the dragon off so it doesn’t go into town.”

“Guess Dive Bomber is a lot more bite than bark.” Soarin commented as he carried Ballpin.

“I hope they’re doing alright.” Fleetfoot added.

The moment the flying mare said what she said, a gray blur came out of nowhere and rammed right into Spitfire, knocking the Wonderbolt out of the air.

Fleetfoot and Soarin screeched to a halt and looked and saw a gray unicorn stallion lying on top of their superior.

“Spitfire, you okay?” The former asked as she set Cookie down.

Soarin set Ballpin down as well while checking to see if the mare was alright.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Spitfire said with a disoriented grown.

She then got a good look at the stallion that landed on her.

“Oh, hey Jackboot.” She said. “What’s up?”

“Nothing much.” Jackboot said as he got off of her. “Just fighting a dragon. How are you?”

“I’m good, just got acquainted with your friends.” Spitfire answered. “Nice ponies, by the way.”

“Jackboot, are you okay?” Cookie asked. “And where’s Dive Bomber is he alright?”

Before the stallion cold answer, a loud roar in the distance interrupted him.

“Come on Jackboot, where’d you go?”

Dive Bomber spun through the air after getting swiped by the dragon’s tail.

“Wherever he is, he’d better hurry.”

He delivered another blow to the dragon’s face, again with his back hooves. This time the blow was effective as the dragon actually held his nose.

“Yeah, how do you like that?”

The dragon then tilted his head back and let out a large burst of firs from his mouth, causing Dive Bomber to dodge out of the way.

“Jackboot better hurry up before I’m fried chick… …whoa!”

Before Dive Bomber could say anything, the dragon managed to grab a hold of Dive Bomber; in way in which he couldn’t flap his wings.

“Hey, let me go!”

The dragon pulled him in and opened his mouth, preparing to swallow him.

“No please no!” He shouted. “Somepony help me!”

The dragon threw him toward his mouth.

“HEEELP!!!”

Before Dive bomber got within three feet of the dragon’s maw, what looked like a white blur came, from what seemed to be out of nowhere, knocking the red pegasus out of the air.

Dive Bomber hit the ground with almost a thud.

“What the…?”

His question was cut off by the sight of a certain multicolored maned pegasus.

“Rainbow Dash!” He said with surprise. “What are you doing here?”

“I was flying around and I saw that huge flame earlier, so I came to check it out.” Rainbow Dash explained. “It’s a good thing I… …look out!”

Dash and Dive Bomber flew out of the way before the dragon’s tail slammed against the ground.

The two pegasi turned to the dragon and prepared to charge toward it, but before either of them could move, the dragon received several blows to his face, from what looked like streaks of light. The two pegasi looked and saw that the light streaks came from Ballpin. Well, “a” Ballpin, which was then followed by four more of the same unicorn.

Rainbow Dash and Dive Bomber both looked at one another with the most quizzical look on their faces, as they weren’t sure of what they were looking at.

“I think I hit my head harder than I thought.” Dive Bomber said.

Suddenly, there was a sudden crash of thunder, followed by the dragon flinching as a bolt of lightning hitting him in the head.

The flying stallion looked and saw that the source was a black cloud being pushed by Spitfire and Soarin with Fleetfoot jumping on the top of it, emitting the thunderous lightning.

“Dive Bomber!”

Dive Bomber saw Cookie and Jackboot running towards him, the later calling over to him.

“Dive, are you okay?” She asked.

“I’m fine.” Dive Bomber said. “I see you brought the handkerchief army with you.”

Cookie and Jackboot looked over at the Ballpins who were zapping the dragon, keeping it in its place.

“Yeah, I forgot to tell you about that.” Jackboot said.

Suddenly Ballpin, or one of them, suddenly received a massive blow from one of the dragon’s feet and flew backward into a tree with a loud thud. Before anypony could say anything, the Ballpin disappeared in a cloud of white smoke, indicating that it was a clone.

Jackboot looked at the cave and at the dragon and then at Dive Bomber’s necklace.

“I got a plan.” He said. “Dive Bomber, give me your necklace.”

Dive Bomber was confused.

“My necklace? What for?”

“I’m going to lead the dragon back to the cave.” Jackboot explained. “Once the dragon is inside, I want you, Dash, the Wonderbolts, and the Ballpins to last the top of the cave with everything you got. Once I’m inside I’ll go out through the other entrance.”

Another Ballpin slammed to the ground, disappearing like the previous.

“This is really stupid.” Dash said. “But we got your back dude.”

Dive Bomber removed the necklace and handed it to Jackboot.

“Come back in one piece.”

The dragon stomped its way into its gem filled with fire in his eyes, and also in his breath.

“Where are you?!” He shouted.

He looked around at the piles upon piles of his horde of treasures.

Out of frustration, he swung his tail and crashed it into a pile, scattering the contents around the cave.

“You can’t hide forever!” He shouted once more. “Come out and face me!”

Another loot pile shared the same fate as it clattered against the floor and walls. With another angry swing, another pile exploded, this time with a little extra, which flew through the air with a scream before hitting the ground with a thud.

“Ow!”

Jackboot grunted as he tried to stand up after his little trip through the air. The impact from hitting the ground caused his front left leg to shoot a large wave of pain upon any weight bearing down on it.

Jackboot looked over his shoulder and saw the green behemoth looking at him with what looked to be both anger towards him and what appeared to be satisfaction of finding his prey.

“Nowhere to run now!” The reptile shouted before forming a sinister grin.

Jackboot said nothing for several moments before saying something.

“I think we both know what happens now.” The unicorn said.

“I believe we do.” The dragon said.

Dragon tilted his head back and breathed it, building up the fire that was to come.

“I’m sorry Mother.” Jackboot thought, seeing the glow of the dragon’s fire building up.

The dragon tilted his head back one more time before letting out a burst of fire in its direction.

“I’m sorry Rarity!”

Chapter XXVII

“What?!” Emerald Button asked with horror. “What do you mean my Jacky is fighting a Dragon?!”

Ballpin, Frosted Cookie, Dive Bomber, Rainbow Dash, and the Wonderbolts have arrived back at Twilight’s castle. With Jackboot’s mother were Princess Twilight, Spike, Cadence, Shining Armor, Flash Sentry, Mayor Mare, Blue Collar, and Rarity who had come looking for Jackboot. Dive Bomber explained to Emerald what had happened, from when he learned what had happened; them going to the dragon’s cave to the get the watch, to fighting the dragon, and Jackboot running back into the cave so the cave can be sealed.

“I hope he’s alright.” Cadence said.

“How long ago did he run back into the cave?” Twilight asked.

“Well if one were to take the location of the sun in the sky into account, and add the amount of time it took for us to run here…” Ballpin explained. “…it was about minutes sixteens… …I mean, sixteen minutes. Or twenty one minutes if you add the time it took for us to explain what had happened.”

“Where is this cave exactly?” Shining Armor asked. “Because Flash Sentry and I can assemble a squad to go and help him.”

“I can send for a squad right now.” Flash Sentry said.

Before anypony could say anything else, there was a massive POOF.

“That won’t be necessary.”

In front of the ponies was none other than Princess Celestia herself in all he royal glory, with an unconscious unicorn slouched over her back.

“Jackboot!”

Emerald and Rarity ran over to him.

“What happened?” The former asked.

“Is he okay?” The latter asked.

Celestia gave a calming smile.

“He’s a tad bruised and unconscious from shock.” She said. “Other than that he’s alright. He’s had an eventful day as far.”

“When will he wake up?” Spike asked.

“Soon, Spike.” Celestia answered. “Can you point me in the direction of his room? He needs his rest.”

“I hope he’s alright.” Ballpin said to the Wonderbolts as they strolled through town.

Since Jackboot needed his rest, Ballpin and everypony that was required at the castle were allowed to leave.

“He’ll be fine.” Spitfire said. “Sprained hoof and a little shock isn’t the worst thing the in world. Right, Soarin?”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Soarin asked with annoyance, causing Ballpin and the two mares to laugh.

“Anyway, we’d love to stay and chat, but we got some practice to break in.” Spitfire said. “We’ll see you tomorrow. If you have any suggestions for our routine or something, just gives us a heads up.”

“Oh! And before I forget…” Soarin said. “…make sure you head over to the Clover Café at five, tell them you're with "pie party of two".”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Ballpin said. “See you all later.”

The other two Wonderbolts said their goodbyes and left with their superior.

As Ballpin watched the winged wonders fly away, somepony caught his attention.

“Ballpin!”

He turned and saw a familiar, bowtie wearing mare.

“Oh, hello Octavia.”

Octavia stopped in front of him.

“Are you alright?” She asked.

“Of course.” Ballpin asked. “Why do you ask?”

“Well, after you left my house last night, I saw that you looked a little distraught.” Octavia explained. “Do you; have a crush on me by any chance?”

Ballpin didn’t see this coming.

“Well, yeah.” He said. “But can you really blame me? You are a lovely and talented mare after all.”

Octavia’s cheeks turned red.

“And in regards to me being distraught, I’m alright now.” Ballpin continued. “Noteworthy found me earlier and thanked me for helping you out the other night. So either way, we’re cool.”

“Besides, Soarin is setting up an evening for me with this mare. I'm not sure what her name is, though. Guess there's only one way to find out."

“Oh really?” Octavia said with a smile. “Good for you.”

Octavia then looked up for a moment.

“What else did I come out here for?” She asked. “Oh that’s right. Vinyl and I were talking earlier about our performance and she brought up your singing from the other night. And then we talked about that device you and Jackboot are building.”

Ballpin took full interest.

“Tell me more.”

Emerald, Rarity, Dive Bomber, and Celestia sat in Jackboot’s room. It had been about half an hour since Celestia brought the gray unicorn home.

“I really hope he’s alright.” Rarity said, rubbing Jackboot’s forehead.

“He will be.” Celestia said. “After all he’s only passed out because of the shock.”

Emerald let out a sigh.

“I shouldn’t have been so hard on him.” She said. “Maybe then he wouldn’t have gone to that cave.”

“It’s my fault actually.” Dive Bomber said. “It was my idea to go to the cave in the first place.”

“It doesn’t matter who’s at fault.” Celestia said, cutting into the conversation. “What matters is that Jackboot is alright, and the dragon has been dealt with.”

“What happened to that dragon anyway?” Rarity asked.

“Let’s just say a certain Lord of Chaos has a new play thing.” Celestia answered plainly.

Suddenly, everypony in the room saw Jackboot begin to stir on his bed.

“Uh…” He said as he vocal chords began to work again. “…what happened?”

Suddenly, Jackboot found himself in the tight embrace of his mother.

Emerald looked at her son in the eye, with what looked like tears in her eyes.

“Don’t ever scare me like that again!” She said before embracing him again.

As Jackboot hugged his Mother back, he spotted Rarity and smiled at her, who smiled back and joined in the hug.

“Nice to see you’re alright, man.” Dive Bomber added.

After giving Dive Bomber a hoof bump, Jackboot realized that the Princess of the Sun and his teacher was in the room as well.

“Princess?” He said as Rarity and emerald let go of him. “What are you doing here?”

“She was the one who brought you here, darling.” Rarity said.

“She poofed in after we told everypony what happened.” Dive Bomber added.

Jackboot looked back at the Princess, who maintained her signature warm smile.

“I can’t thank you enough, Princess.” He said.

“I’m just glad you’re alright.” Celestia said as she approached her student. “How is your hoof?”

Jackboot looked and saw that his front left hoof was wrapped in a bandage.

“Oh, right. I remember now.” He said. “By the way, how did you know I was in the cave? Did somepony tell you? And was the entrance to the cave sealed?”

“Let’s just say I was in the right place at the right time.” Celestia said. “In regards to the cave, Ballpin told me that he managed to seal the cave as you told him. Expected nothing less from one of my students.”

The last of what the Princess said caught Jackboot’s attention.

“Student? What do you mean?” He asked. It then clicked in his head. “Are saying Ballpin is…?”

“I just realized that I was in the middle something before I came here.” Celestia said, cutting Jackboot off. “I’ll see you all tomorrow. And Jackboot, good luck with your project.”

Celestia then disappeared in a flash of light.

Before Jackboot could ponder on what Celestia was talking about, he felt Rarity grab onto him again.

“I’m glad you’re alright, darling.” She said.

Jackboot returned the hug.

“I’m sorry for worrying you.” He said.

“I’m the one who should be apologizing.” Dive Bomber said. “If I didn’t suggest going to that cave, you wouldn’t have gotten hurt like you did.”

“Well if I…”

“Let’s just say you’re both sorry.” Emerald said, interrupting her son, causing him and his friend to dodge a cliché.

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door.

“Come in!”

The door opened and a familiar blonde hair unicorn entered.

“Nice to see you’re okay.” He said. “How you feeling?”

“I’m still alive thanks to our beloved sovereign.” Jackboot answered. “What are you doing back here?”

“I come bearing an idea.” Ballpin said. “I ran into Octavia earlier and she mentioned the evening I spent with her and Vinyl when I sang for them, and I came up with a great idea.”

“Well, what is it?” Dive Bomber asked.

“It involves the Electric Pentagon, the Wonderbolts, and Octavia and Vinyl’s music.” Ballpin explained.

Jackboot cocked an eyebrow with interest.

“What sort of music? What do you have in mind?”

“Well we should probably get the Pentagon working first.” Ballpin said. “Come on!”

Jackboot looked to his mother.

“You don’t need my permission.” Emerald said. “As far as I know, you’re punishment is revoked.”

Chapter XXVIII

Ballpin held the black crystal in place in the core module of the Electric Pentagon, in what looked like a mechanical claw, which was attached to the rotary system below it.

It had been about fifteen minutes since Jackboot woke up and the two stallions were hard at work to get the Pentagon running. Earlier that day, Jackboot revealed to his mother that he gave up his watch to a dragon in order to escape from his cave, and to gain the black crystal. Upon hearing of this, Dive Bomber, an old school bully and now Jackboot’s friend, got the idea of them getting it back, only to get chased out of the cave by the dragon. In the end, Jackboot managed to lead the dragon back into the cave so Ballpin, who had arrived with the Wonderbolts, and seal the cave. At one point, Jackboot was cornered by the dragon, resulting in a sprained hoof, only to be rescued by none other than Princess Celestia herself. When asked, she merely said “Let’s just say I was in the right place at the right time” and had mentioned that Ballpin managed to seal the cave, and saying that she “expected nothing less from one of her students” before returning to Canterlot.

After Celestia left, Ballpin came to Jackboot with an idea with the demonstration of the Electric Pentagon. It involves Octavia and Vinyl’s music and the Wonderbolts. Jackboot was so interested in the idea they got to work immediately.

“Okay, hold it there.” Jackboot told Ballpin.

Ballpin did so as a second claw, encased in Jackboot’s magic, was put over the ball like crystal. Jackboot then brought a screwdriver to the entangled claws and tightened them together, fully encasing the crystal.

“Alright, you can let go of it now.”

Ballpin let go of the crystal from its magic encasement.

“So it done?” Ballpin asked.

“By jingo it is!” Jackboot said with glee. “We finally did it!”

The two stallions then exchange a hoof bump.

“Ballpin I can’t tell you enough how much I thank you for helping me out.” Jackboot said. “Without you I probably would be still working on the core module.”

“It’s not a big deal.” Ballpin said.

“Are you kidding me? Of course it’s a big deal.” Jackboot said, putting a hoof on his shoulder. “You’re my best friend.”

Ballpin blushed and look to the side.

“But we shouldn’t celebrate too much.” Jackboot continued. “Because we still have to test it.”

“How do we do that exactly?” Ballpin asked.

“It’s pretty difficult at first, but don’t worry you’ll get the hang of it.” Jackboot said. He then waved his friend over with his sprained hoof, as he tried to keep weight of off it. “What you got to do, is you that try to get a hold of the rotary assembly and get rotating until you it up to enough speed for to cause the twittermites to get irritated, creating the charge required. The faster the speed, the greater the charge.”

“And since there’s two of us, you want me to hold it at that speed, right?”

“Exactly!” Jackboot said as he putted Ballpin on the shoulder. “And don’t worry, before we left I asked for help.”

“Jackboot, I’m here!”

“And here she is.” Jackboot said. “We’re in here!”

On que, Twilight entered the work room along with her scaly assistant.

“With Twilight having such an interest in this sort of subject, I decided to ask her for assistance.” The gray stallion explained. “Along with Spike, of course.”

“What do you need help with?” Spike asked.

“To test the theory of mine.” Jackboot answered. “If I get the rotary system to rotate to a certain speed, which creates a charge, thanks to the twittermites, and have Ballpin hold it at that speed and charge, it won’t backfire like the original did.”

“I’m not sure if I can do this.” Ballpin said.

“Don’t worry, Ballpin, you can do it.” Jackboot said. “You aren’t one of Celestia’s students for nothing.”

Everypony’s, except Jackboot’s, eyes went wide.

“H-How did you that know?” Ballpin realized his error. “I mean, how did you…?”

“I didn’t.” Jackboot said with a smirk. “But I do now.”

Ballpin lowered his head.

“I’m… …I’m sorry…”

Shame was clear on his face.

“Ballpin, look at me.”

Ballpin looked back up at Jackboot, who, to his surprise, had no anger on his face, but a gentle smile.

“If you were under orders from Celestia, I can understand.” He said. “But there are several questions I want to ask you. Is that alright?”

Ballpin nodded, still with a frown.

“First question, are you really from Ponyville?”

Ballpin nodded.

“Okay. Second question, is you’re name really Ballpin?”

Ballpin nodded.

“Third, is your speech impediment real?”

“Of course is it!” He said. “I mean, it is.”

“Okay, just wondering.” Jackboot said. “Come on, let’s get started.”

Ballpin was confused.

“Wait a minute, what?” He asked. “I’ve been hiding this from you the whole time, and you’re not mad?”

Jackboot turned to Ballpin with a confused look.

“Mad? What for?” He asked. “You didn’t do anything wrong, I’m pretty sure Celestia told you to keep it a secret till a certain time, and you’re pretty much the reason why the Pentagon is completed now. So what is there to get mad about?”

“Well…”

Ballpin couldn’t find an answer.

“I didn’t think so.” Jackboot with a chuckled. “Now come on, I managed to pick up a couple of anti-electricity suits before Rarity and I left Canterlot. What do you say?”

Ballpin looked down at the floor for a couple of moments before looking back up at Jackboot with a smile.

“Let’s do it!”

Jackboot and Ballpin were fully dressed head to hoof in suits made of a combination of canvas and rubber. If the suits were blue and yellow, they’d look like Wonderbolts if unicorns were eligible to join. Unlike the previous anti-electricity suits that Jackboot and is father had used, Jackboot had modified them to have a special glass cones over their horns.

“How do we look?” Ballpin asked.

“Like you’re going to the moon.” Spike said jokingly.

“Funny.” Jackboot said. He then pulled out his watch and floated it over to Spike. “Spike, I want you to keep an eye on the watch.” He said. “If my theory is correct, after five minutes the pentagon will reach a charge of at least one thousand volts. Which is enough to get the all the crystals going. And once five minutes have passed, I want you to signal Ballpin to hold the rotary system at the speed and keep it there, that way the voltage stays the same and the possibility of backfiring.”

“How do I use for signal?” The little dragon asked.

“You can tap me on the shoulder.” Ballpin said. “One tap for go and tap twos for… …I mean two taps for stop. You got it?”

“Got it!”

Ballpin then nodded at Jackboot and the two put on their goggles and got to their positions.

Jackboot used his magic to take hold of the rotary system and began to rotate it, emitting a metallic sounding clicking. The clicking became faster and faster. As the rotation speed increased, the domes of each of the modules began to glow as the crystal within them began to light up.

Spike eyed the watch carefully while observing what the pentagon was doing. When he glanced down again, he saw that three minutes had passed and it was now passed thirty seconds. As planned, Spike scurried over to Ballpin. Once the second hand hit twelve, he tapped Ballpin on the shoulder. Immediately, Ballpin’s horn glowed, and afterward, the clicking of the rotary system continued at a steady pace.

Suddenly, a light blue beam shot from each dome of the outer modules and into the dome of the core module. From there, the beam spread towards the ceiling and, slowly, an image began to form. That image was that of Princess Celestia herself walking with her mane and tail gracefully flowing in the breeze, and, had the image not be almost completely transparent, looked to actually be there. The image then changed to that of a group of birds in flight, a tea cup, an apple, and, to Spike and Twilight’s surprise, or un-surprise, Rarity.

Jackboot’s horn stopped glowing and he opened in eyes and took a breath. He then looked over at Spike and nodded, signaling the little dragon to tap Ballpin on the shoulder twice, telling him to stop.

After his horn stopped glowing, Ballpin let out a sigh.

“How’d it go?” He asked.

“I was about to ask the same question.” Jackboot added.

The two stallions looked over at the Princess of Friendship, who had a look of awe on her face.

“What did you think, Twilight?” Jackboot asked.

Twilight had trouble putting what she thought into words.

“That…” She tried to say. “...that… …was… …AWESOME!”

She then rushed over her put her hooves on Jackboot’s shoulders.

“Jackboot you did it!” She said. “I’m so proud of you!”

Jackboot blushed.

“Well I can’t take all the credit.” He said. “I have Ballpin to thank for the assistance and my father for coming up with the design.”

“I’m sure your dad is proud of you.” Spike said.

Jackboot smiled and closed his eyes as a tear ran down his cheek.

“Yeah.” He said. “He would.”

Note from the Author

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter III

Current Time: 10:21 PM, Thursday

Jackboot slowly opened his eyes as he lied in his bed. The bed was really comfortable, so comfortable Jackboot didn’t want to wake up. But unfortunately, that wasn’t going to happen.

As his eyes opened completely, they almost popped out.

“Where am I?” He asked frantically.

He then looked over at the opposite wall and saw his suitcase sitting there. The sight of it triggered his memory.

“Oh, right. I’m in Twilight’s castle.”

He then realized what he had just said.

“I’m in Twilight’s castle!” He said with excitement.

As he hopped up and down on the bed with joy, he glanced over at the alarm clock on the night stand. The time was 10:23 in the morning.

Jackboot suddenly did a double take.

“Oh no it’s that late?” He asked with mixture of fear and surprise.

His surprise of the time caused him to hop right off the bed, hitting the floor with a thud.

“I got to get dressed now!”

Jackboot trotted down the corridor of the castle as fast as he could without his jacket or cap.

“Throne room, throne room. Where is it?” He asked.

He then came to a familiar door.

“Here we go.”

He pushed open the door open into the correct room. There at the throne was Twilight with a bunch of papers spread among the table before her with Spike by her side.

To his surprise, there was a second pony present in the room. This pony was an orange mare wearing a hat. Jackboot noticed her cutie mark consisted of several red apples. How did she get that as her cutie mark?

The sound of the doors opening caught all of their attention.

“Good morning Jackboot!” Twilight said from her seat.

“Somepony’s a late riser.” Spike said.

“Did you know that alarm clocks work when you actually set them?” Jackboot asked jokingly.

This caused everypony to laugh.

“So this is the pony y’all were talking about.” The orange mare said.

She then approached Jackboot with a smile on her face.

“Pleasure to meet you Jackboot.” She said. “My names Applejack.”

She then shook Jackboot’s hoof with rapid pace.

“Nice to meet you as well, Miss Applejack.” Jackboot said in greeting.

Jackboot then turned his attention back to Twilight.

“I apologize for sleeping in so late, Twilight.” He said. “I’ll make sure it never happens again.”

“It’s alright Jackboot.” Twilight said. “We haven’t really gotten started on preparations. After all the Celebration won’t be until the Friday after next, so there’s no real rush.”

A thought entered Twilight’s mind, giving her an idea.

“You know, with the amount of time we have, you can go have a look around Ponyville.” She said. She then turned to Applejack. “Applejack, you think you can show Jackboot around town?”

“I would love to, Twilight.” Applejack said. “But I got a lot of work to do. Big Mac and I got to get the harvest underway before the Celebration, and we got a lot of ground to cover.”

This caught Jackboot’s full attention.

“What are these apples going to be used for?” He asked. “Pies?”

“Apple pies, apple fritters, apple turnovers, apple tarts, apple cake, apple cider…” Applejack explained, listing almost every single apple related good under the sun. “…if it’s got apple in it, we’ll make it.”

“How about I help you out?” Jackboot asked.

“Oh, Jackboot you don’t have to.” Applejack said. “Besides, we have a lot of apples to pick. Are you sure you want to help?”

Jackboot suddenly produced a serious look on his face.

“I was sent here by Celestia herself to help with the Celebration.” He said with a just as serious tone. “And I will do whatever it takes to fulfill that order. So yes, I am sure, Miss Applejack.”

Applejack, Spike, and Twilight all looked at one another, all surprised by how serious Jackboot had gotten.

Applejack then looked back at Jackboot.

“Well, ain’t no point in arguin about it.” She said. “Come with me, we’ll see what you can do.”

“Yeah! Woo!” Rainbow Dash shouted as she busted through a cloud.

The weather that day is to be clear, and Rainbow was making sure of it.

As she put both of her back hooves through a cloud, she came up with an idea. She then quickly gathered the lot of the remaining clouds and put them in a row.

“And for the grand finale!”

She then flew as fast as she could at the row of clouds, ramming through each one of them with a loud POOF.

“Yeah!” She shouted, marveling at her handy work. “That’s how it’s done!”

She then looked at the sky around her, knowing that her work was done. She then looked and saw she was near Sweet Apple Acres.

“I wonder what AJ is up to?” She asked herself.

The thought of Apple Cider entered her mind, causing her mouth to water.

“Sweet, sweet cider.” She said with glee. “Yep, I’m going there.”

She then flew over one of the many orchards, searching for the hat wearing mare.

She then spotted Applejack, bringing a bucket full of apples to a wagon, along with a familiar red stallion.

“There you are.” Rainbow said.

She then dove down towards the orange mare, but pulled up just enough so she doesn’t crash into her friend.

“Sup, Applejack?!” She asked, zooming past her friend, almost causing her to lose her hat.

Before Applejack could reply and before the blue pegasus could slow down, she spotted a gray unicorn in a brown vest and cap dead ahead carrying a bucket of apples.

Rainbow, with every fiber in her body, tried to stop.

“Watch out!” She shouted.

The gray unicorn looked and saw the pegasus coming at him. Without a second thought, a large flashed occurred, and he found himself standing right next to Applejack and Big Macintosh, still holding onto the bucket.

“Another bucket of apples, Applejack.”

Applejack had told him earlier that he can drop the formalities, who of which willing complied, although still letting “Miss” slip out couple of times.

“Good job Jackboot.” Applejack said. “Just dump that in the wagon with the rest of em.”

As Jackboot dumped the apples into the large wagon, he saw the blue pegasus hovering towards them with a brown cap over her face.

“Did somepony lose a hat?” She asked.

Jackboot realized that his cap was no longer on his head.

“That would be me.” He said.

Rainbow then took the cap of her face and tossed to Jackboot, the latter which caught the cap out of the air and place it back on his head.

“I never saw you around here before.” Rainbow said. “You a friend of AJ’s?”

Friend. There was that word again. A flash of anxiety came over Jackboot’s face.

“Hey, you okay?” The rainbow haired mare asked.

Jackboot hen shook his head, flinging the anxiety away.

“Yes, I’m fine.” Jackboot said. “My mind was elsewhere.”

He then stuck out his boot covered hoof in greeting.

“Jackboot. At your service.”

Rainbow then shook Jackboot’s hoof.

“I’m Rainbow Dash.” She said, introducing herself. “Maybe you’ve heard of me. The most awesome flyer in Ponyville.”

Funny enough, Jackboot is rather familiar with this multicolored flyer.

“Actually, I think I have heard of you.”

This caught both mares by surprise and Big Mac looked over as he came back from bucking another apple tree.

“Do you know anypony by the name of Spitfire?” Jackboot asked.

“You mean the captain of the ever so awesome Wonderbolts?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Yes.” Jackboot said. “She told me about you once.”

Before a second passed after those words had left his mouth, the blue mare was about an inch away from his face with the most excited look Jackboot has ever seen.

“You know Spitfire!?” She asked.

“Well, not personally.” Jackboot explained. “I just happened to meet her at the Wonderbolts Derby one time and she mentioned how you almost gave up being a Wonderbolt for your friends. That’s very admirable of you.”

Rainbow, now out of Jackboot’s face, produced a rather proud look on hers.

“Well, just shows how awesome I am.” She said. “But enough about me. What brings you to Ponyville?”

“Well, I was sent by Celestia to help with the Celebration.”

Rainbow Dash was surprised by this.

“You know Spitfire, and Celestia?” She asked. “Do you know Luna as well?”

“Well, not as well as some, but I have met her on several occasions.”

“Jeez, I was only joking.” Rainbow said. “Anyway, what did I come here for?” It then returned to her. “Oh yeah. AJ, how’s it coming with the…?”

“Cider?” Applejack asked, finishing Rainbow’s question. “Don’t worry Rainbow; we’ll have as much cider as you can drink. And that might actually be possible thanks to Jackboot here. We’ve gotten so many apples, Big Mac here actually had to go and grab another cart.”

Rainbow looked over at Jackboot.

“In that case, I’ll make sure Jack gets the first glass.”

“I appreciate it, Miss Dash.” Jackboot said.

“Well anyway, I’m going to go grab a nap. All that cloud busting has got me beat.” Rainbow said. “See you guys later.”

Rainbow Dash then zoomed away, causing Jackboot and Applejack to hold onto their hats.

“She was nice.” Jackboot said. “Anyway, is there anything else you need help with?”

Applejack smiled. Twilight wasn’t kidding about how hard of a worker he was.

“It’s alright Sugercube.” She said. “Me and Big Mac will take it from here.”

“Are you sure?”

“Eeyup.” Big Mac said.

Big Mac then grabbed an apple and tossed to Jackboot, who, like with his hat earlier, caught it out of the air and took a bite out of it.

“Thank you.” He said. “Well anyway, I’m going to have a look around town. I’ll see you two at another time.”

“Okay, see y’all later.”

Jackboot then collected his jacket and left the two apples, who bid their farewells.

“Fine fella ain’t he?” Apple asked her older brother.

“Eeyup.”

“That was such a good apple.” Jackboot said aloud.

He looked around at the buildings in town. He hadn’t really payed attention when he first arrived yesterday when Spike collected him from the train station, or when he followed Applejack to Sweet Apple Acres earlier that day.

“Maybe I could see what they have at the library.”

He came upon a large hole in the ground, which what appeared to be the remains of a very large tree. It the appeared to be have also been a house of some sort, the evidence being a door. He stepped forward to have a closer look, but suddenly stepped on something. He looked down and saw that it was what used to be a sign that said, “Golden Oaks Library”.

“Sweet Celestia, what happened here?” He asked aloud.

He looked around as if somepony were to give him answer. He then spotted a white pony with blue hair and a pair of large sunglasses.

“Excuse me!” He said to the mare.

The mare couldn’t hear Jackboot as she was wearing a pair of blue headphones, which played music loudly right into her ears.

“Madam! Do you know what happened here?” Jackboot asked.

The mare still couldn’t and continued walking, without noticing him.

Jackboot then gave up.

“Oh well.”

Suddenly his stomach made a loud gurgling sound.

“Guess that apple didn’t do it.” He said. “I wonder if there’s somewhere I can grab something to eat.”

He looked around to see if there were any restaurants around, or any building that looked like a restaurant. He then spotted a building that looked as if it were completely made of baked goods.

Just looking at the building made his stomach rumble even more.

“That must be a bakery.” He said. “Very good design.”

His stomach then growled.

“Okay, stomach, we’ll go to there.”

He walked into the bakery, passing a sign that read, “Sugar Cube Corner.” A nice name, Jackboot thought.

It was rather crowded inside, as there were different ponies of every color and every type. He saw a tall yellow stallion and a short blue mare going in and out of the back. They must be the owners, Jackboot thought.

Jackboot would’ve walked further into the bakery, but he felt a little intimidated by the crowd. Even though he came from a place like Canterlot, he still didn’t like crowds. Then again, he never liked crowds no matter where he was.

“Maybe, I’ll come back later.”

The crowd wasn’t as large as one would think, but it was big enough to send him away.

His stomach growled again, as if to protest Jackboot’s decision.

“Oh, quiet you.”

He then made his way towards the door, only to look back at a mint green unicorn receive a chocolate cupcake.

“That does look good.” He thought. “Hopefully it won’t be too crowded later.”

He made it outside as he turned his head, but ran right into somepony.

As he stumbled back, he saw the somepony he ran into was a pink earth pony with blue eyes and really puffy hair.

“I’m so sorry, Miss.” He said frantically. “I wasn’t looking.”

“Hey, it’s cool.” The mare said, clearly unfazed by what had happened. “I wasn’t looking either.”

Jackboot smiled and nodded as he walked way. As he did so, he heard the mare gasp loudly.

“Hey wait!” She shouted.

Jackboot turned around but saw that no pony was there.

“Where’d she go?”

He then turned back around to continue walking, but found himself looking at the mare he had walked into.

Jackboot almost jumped out of his clothes upon seeing the mare. He then looked back at the entrance of the bakery and then back at the pink mare. Did she teleport or something?

“Hi there!” She said. “What’s your name?”

“Jackboot.” Jackboot answered, still alarmed by the quick moving mare.

“That’s such a cool name!” She said as she bounced up and down. “I’m Pinkie Pie! I know every pony in Ponyville, but at least I thought I did until I ran into you! So what kind stuff do you like? What’s your favorite food? What’s your favorite color? Do you like cake? What’s your favorite cake? What’s your favorite icing? Do you like icing?” Pinkie Pie then gasped again. “I need to throw you a welcome party! That’s exactly what I’ll do! Would you like that?”

Before Jackboot could answer, his stomach growled louder than before.

“Sounds like somepony’s hungry.” Pinkie said, not bouncing anymore. “You want a grab something from inside?”

“Well…” Jackboot said. “…I would, but it’s a bit crowded in there. I don’t really like crowds.”

Pinkie thought for a moment.

“On my way back here I saw that there was barely anypony over at the Hay Burger.” She said. “You want to go there?”

Jackboot’s stomach growled again.

“I think my stomach speaks for the both of us.” He said with a small chuckled.

“Great!” Pinkie said with glee. “I’ll go tell Mr. and Mrs. Cake first and then we’ll be on our way. Be right back!”

Jackboot looked at Pinkie Pie as she walked into the bakery.

It didn’t take long as she bounced out of the bakery.

“Okay, let’s get going!”

Pinkie then grabbed Jackboot’s hoof and practically dragged him along.

“We’ll be friends in no time.”

That word again...

...friend.

Chapter XIX

Current Time: 12:21 PM, Monday

The train raddled down the track as it approached Ponyville.

Jackboot looked at the afternoon sky and let out a joyful sigh. A lot had happened since arriving at Canterlot. He had obtained the glass

domes he needed for the Electric Pentagon, he reunited with an old classmate from Magic School, had fun at a dinner party hosted by Fancy Pants, and had made up with an old bully of his. But more importantly, Jackboot got to spend time with Rarity. And that time was well spent as the two of them expressed their feelings for one another which ended with them exchanging a heartfelt kiss.

Jackboot then looked over at Rarity who was resting her eyes as she leaned on Jackboot’s shoulder.

Jackboot smiled as he looked upon the sleeping mare.

As he looked back over at the window, he felt his right front leg being grabbed.

He looked over saw it was Rarity, wrapping her legs around Jackboot’s, and seemed to be mumbling something.

Jackboot didn’t want to ease drop, but his curiosity had gotten the better of him.

He leaned down and listened closely. What Rarity was saying was inaudible, until she started to giggle in her sleep.

Jackboot’s interest peaked.

“Is she dreaming about me?”

Before he could listen more, the train car suddenly shifted, waking Rarity up.

She yawned as she looked at Jackboot.

“Sleep well?” Jackboot asked.

“I did, yes.” Rarity said. “Thank you for allowing me to use your shoulder as a pillow.”

“Not a problem at all.” Jackboot with a smile. “If you want, I’ll be your designated pillow for whatever trips you go on.”

Rarity then chuckled and nuzzled against his neck.

Ballpin looked around as he and Spike waited on the train platform.

“What did you say Jackboot was bringing back?” The little dragon asked.

“He’s bringing back several domes glass for the Electric Pentagon.” Ballpin answered. “I mean, glass domes.” He corrected himself. “It’s a good thing that Rarity had to go to Canterlot. That way Jackboot could bring the domes back with him.”

The air was the pierced with the sound of the train’s whistle.

“Here they come!” Spike said.

The train clattered and screeched to a halt, letting off a large cloud of steam.

Ponies poured off of the train and onto the platform. Among them was a familiar white mare and gray stallion.

“Jackboot, Rarity.” Ballpin said. “Welcome back.”

“Good to be back.” Jackboot said as he and Ballpin exchanged a hoof bump.

“Now if you will excuse me, I’m going to go and claim our baggage. Pardon me.”

“How was the trip?” Spike asked as Jackboot trotted away. “Did you have fun?”

“Oh we most certainly did darling.” Rarity said. “We got to stay in the royal suite; we went to a great dinner party, we…” She let out a joyful sigh. “…we had a really lovely time.”

Spike smiled upon seeing the mare in such a good mood.

Jackboot returned carrying a large amount of baggage with his magic. Among the baggage was a wooden crate that had the word “fragile” stamped on the side in red.

“Are those the domes?” Ballpin asked.

“Yeah they are.” Jackboot answered. “Can you do me a favor? Take it to the shop for me, will you?”

“Sure, I got you.”

Ballpin then took hold of the crate with his magic before trotting away.

“Oh and Jackboot, before I forget…” Spike said. “…Twilight needs to speak to you.”

“Sure okay.” Jackboot said. “Can you tell her I’ll be there later? I’m going to help Rarity get her stuff back to her house.”

“Okay, I’ll do that.” Spike said, giving a thumbs up. “In the mean time I’ll be at Sugercube Corner. I promised Pinkie I’d help her make cupcakes.”

“Careful, careful.”

Ballpin unlocked the front door of the metal shop while holding the crate with his magic. With it containing such fragile contents, he didn’t want to mess up in any way possible.

“There we go.” He said as he heard the click of the lock.

He then entered the backroom and carefully set the crate on the workbench.

“I wonder if Jackboot would mind if I have a look.”

He then thought for a moment.

“Just one look.”

He grabbed a crowbar and opened the top lid with one quick heave.

“There we go.”

He looked into the box and saw the glass through the packing hay, which is used to reduce the chance of harm coming to it.

“Careful…”

Ballpin elevated the glass out of the box with hay scattering across the floor. There were a total of six glass domes. The one being elevated being the biggest, this one made for the core module of the Electric Pentagon, while the other five are for the outer modules.

“Only four days left.” He said as he unpacked the rest of the domes. “Now to get these installed. I’ll have to wait on the twittermites though, as I’ll have to wait for Jackboot.”

He then realized something.

“I didn’t mess up my words.” He said with surprise. “Also, why am I talking to myself?”

He then grabbed hold one of the outer modules from the corner and got to work.

After several minutes, Ballpin was now on the third module when he heard somepony ringing the bell at the front desk.

“Coming!”

Ballpin then set down the dome onto the workbench and into the front room, where a familiar bowtie wearing mare was waiting.

“Oh, hello Octavia.” He said. “What kind I do for you?”

Octavia let out a loud sigh.

“Can I have a hug?”

Ballpin was surprised.

“I’m sorry, what?” He asked. “Are you alright?”

He wasn’t expecting this question.

“I was up before the sun came up trying to perfect this song I plan on playing at the celebration.” Octavia explained. “Essentially, I really need a hug right now.”

Ballpin didn’t need any further explanation.

He trotted out from behind the counter and approached the mare who then pulled him into a hug, in which he willing returned.

As he held Octavia, he heard her calmly breathe in his ear before she let out a sigh of satisfaction.

“Thank you Ballpin.” She said. “I really appreciate this.”

“It is no problem at all.” Ballpin said as he let go of her. He then noticed that she is still latched around him. “Um, Octavia?”

Octavia then returned to reality.

“Oh, sorry.” She said as she let go of him. “Your hug was so calming; I guess I just got caught in the moment.”

Ballpin smiled as he watched the mare blush.

“With hugs aside, is there anything else I can help you with?” He asked. “Anything need fixing?”

“Oh no, just the hug.” Octavia answered simply. “But, since we had such a good time last night, do you want to do that again? Later maybe?”

Ballpin thought for a moment.

“I don’t know.” He said. “I just got back from my break, not to mention meeting Jackboot at the train station, and I have a lot of work to do. Maybe a different time?”

“Alright.” Octavia said, sounding half disappointed. “So tomorrow then?”

“Sure, tomorrow.” Ballpin said.

Octavia then gave a quick hug.

“I’ll see you tomorrow then.”

Octavia then let go of Ballpin and left the shop.

“Such a lovely mare.”

“Are you sure you’ve got it?” Rarity asked as she and Jackboot climbed up the stairs of her boutique.

“It’s alright.” Jackboot said. “After all, I am using my magic to carry all of this.”

Rarity entered her room with Jackboot in toe.

“Just set them down anywhere.”

Jackboot complied and set them down the five pieces of luggage in the center of the room, six if counting his own suitcase.

“Thank you very much Jackboot.” Rarity said. “I really app… …oh goodness.”

“What is it?” Jackboot asked if concern. “Is something wrong?”

“My mane has gone awry.” Rarity answered, seeing herself in the mirror.

She then grabbed hold of a brush and began to fix the tangles in her mane.

Jackboot could not help but look as the white mare brush her mare. The windows were not covered by curtains, allowing sunlight to come into the room, shining off of Rarity’s mane.

As she brushed the tangles from her mane, she saw the gray stallion stood still in the center of the room.

“Are you alright darling?” She asked. “You’ve gone pretty quiet.”

Jackboot shook himself back into reality.

“S-Sorry, I couldn’t help but look.” He explained awkwardly.

Rarity then smiled and returned to her brushing.

“There, much better.”

As she set the brush down, Jackboot got her attention.

“R-Rarity.” He said. “Can I ask you something?”

“Why of course darling.” Rarity said as she approached Jackboot. “What do you wish to ask me?”

Jackboot’s heart began to pound as the mare approached him.

“I was wondering if…” He had a hard time asking what he wanted to ask. “…I was… …never mind, it’s silly.”

“Oh please darling, you can tell me.” Rarity said insistently.

Jackboot took a breath, gathering enough strength to ask his question.

“Can I… …k-kiss you again?”

Spike walked through town holding a small, white package.

“Good thing Pinkie let me help make the cupcakes for the party.” He said as he patted the package. “I just hope Rarity likes them.”

He knocked on the door of the boutique.

No pony answered.

“Rarity!”

No answer.

He then knocked on the door again, this time the door opened slightly. Seeing this as a sign that Rarity might be home, he then opened the door and looked around the inside of the boutique.

Before he could call Rarity’s name, he heard somepony shouted something.

“Oh darling that tickles!”

He climbed up the stairs and found himself at the bedroom door, of which was cracked open.

Before he could even knock on the door, he heard somepony giggling.

Curious, he looked through the crack between the door and the frame and saw the somepony he was looking for. But there is a problem, she is kissing somepony. That somepony was a familiar boot wearing stallion.

“R-Rarity…?” Spike said as his eyes began to water. “…Jackboot, how…?”

He wasn’t sure what to say or what to do, other than rush out of the boutique, leaving behind the package of cupcakes…

…and leaving with a broken heart.

“Oh darling that tickles!”

Rarity laughed as Jackboot kissed her neck.

She and the stallion then sunk to the floor in complete lip lock.

Jackboot’s heart was pounding as he kissed the mare.

“I still can’t believe I’m kissing her again!” He shouted in his mind.

The taste of the kiss was just as great as it was before. No, it was actually sweeter.

The two then broke the kiss for air.

“You’re such a good kisser.” Rarity said as she caught her breath. “Are you sure you’ve never kissed a mare before?”

“Of course I have.” Jackboot answered. “Who do you think kissed you back in Canterlot?”

Rarity laughed as she and Jackboot began to kiss again.

But before either of their lips touched, they both heard a loud slam from downstairs, causing the both of them to jump.

“What was that?” Jackboot asked.

“Sounds like someone’s here.” Rarity said as Jackboot let go of her. “Sorry if I have to cut this short Jackboot.”

“It’s alright.” Jackboot said as got up from the floor and grabbed his cap. “I have to get back to the shop anyway. After I drop my suitcase off at the castle and speak to Twilight about whatever it is she wants to talk to me about.”

Rarity smiled as she opened her bedroom door.

As she walked out into the hall, she felt her hoof hit something.

“What’s this?”

Jackboot walked out into the hall and saw that it was a white paper package.

Rarity picked the package up and opened it, seeing that contents were an assortment of cupcakes.

“Cupcakes?” Jackboot asked. “Where did those come from?”

“I don’t know.” Rarity said. “You think whoever just left, left them here?”

A thought came to Jackboot’s mind, causing his eyes to go wide.

“Spike said he was going to help Pinkie make cupcakes.” He said. “And I think those are for you.”

Immediately putting two and two together, she let out a gasp.

“Oh dear…”

“We need to go make sure he’s alright.” Jackboot said. “Come on.”