“… and this one goes here.” I said placing the book on the shelf. I looked at the cart and it is empty. Yeah, I am still helping Sparkle with the books. It is, almost, the end of the semester and everyone is trying to get higher notes. So… here I am!

I approached to the banister and spotted her typing on the computer. I waved at her as she replies with a thumps up.

“Thank you Blazingsol! I really needed the help!” She said.

“Glad I could help!” Then I heard a noise coming from the upper floor. I thought that no one else is supposed to be here. I decided to check what that was.

I started to hear some noises coming from a room, just where they keep old stuff like, computers or extra carts. I leaned forward and placed my ear against the door. I heard… two voices. I was going to knock but… screw it. I opened the door and-

“BUDDY?!” Astral looks at me as he… stops… thrusting her.

“WHAT THE HECK?!” I just yelled as he tries to cover Applejack with his jacket. Oh, right. they were… doing that in here. I quickly covered my eyes and looked away. “What are you doing?! I mean, I know WHAT you are doing it just… wtf?”

Applejack jumps from the desk, pulls up her skirt and grabs her hat. “Well, this sure was a surprise?” She says laughing. “It’s alright sugarcube you can open your eyes now.”

I opened my middle fingers and saw the two of them blushing like hell. I sighed and crossed my arms. “Surprise… I… would not call it that but… OK. Somehow I knew you two will ended up together.”

Astral then leans his elbow on my shoulder. “Sorry buddy, I hope that you are not that freaked out.”

I just took a deep breath and giggled. “Shut up.” I looked to my left and saw Sparkle running towards us.

“Hey Blazingsol? What happened? I heard you screaming and…” She then notices Astral and Applejack. “Ohh… I…We… are not interrupting, right?”

I was going to answer but Astral grabs Applejack’s hand. “Nope! We were just leaving! See you guys later!”

“Farewell fellas!” Applejack added.

I was left with Sparkle as she understands what just happened. “Oh, dear. So… did you saw them…”

I just nodded and close the door behind me. “I am actually happy for them,, you know? Both of them seemed to enjoy each other’s company.”

“You are right.” Twilight says with a smile. “At least it was you who found them and not a teacher. They would have been in trouble.”

“Let’s just...”

“Forget about this?” Twilight said giggling.

“Yes, please.” I then received a text from Rainbow. “Hey hotshot, are you done with those books? If so, then let’s meet up at the entrance of the school.”I think Sparkle noticed me blushing, a little bit. She then hits my shoulder playfully and smirks.

“Looks like someone received a text from you know who?” It’s funny because Sparkle is teasing me, something unusual for her, but it is fun.

“So… can I leave earlier?”

Twilight nods and taps my back. “Sure, have fun you two!”

I grabbed my stuff and head to the entrance. Just at the entrance I spotted Rainbow leaning against the wall. She is wearing her soccer uniform so… you know how awesome she looks.

“Sorry if I am late.” I said.

“Good, you are here. C’mon let’s go!” She then drags me outside the school and end up at the parking lot.

“Where are we going exactly?” I asked.

“To the Arcades! I heard that there is a new game. So, are you up for it?” She asks curiously.

“You bet I am!” I realized that she brought her helmet. Sooo, she wants to go on my ride? She did not ask but I got the idea.

“Then let’s get ready!” She says putting on her helmet. “You are driving us there, in case you were wondering.”

I just giggled as we hop on my motorcycle and set course to the Arcades.

***

“Show Your Moves!, huh?” I asked as I look at the new game, it is a dance game… you know the one where you tap/jump on the arrows on the floor trying to keep up with the ones at the screen. I am so fuc-

“What is it, Torchie?” Rainbow asks hitting my side.

I took a deep, deep breath and the let it go on a looooong sigh. “R-Rainbow… I…” She looks at me with a curious look. “Idonotknowhowtodance!” I whispered at her.

“What was that?” She asks standing in front of me, arms crossed.

“I do… not know how to dance, Rainbow.” By my surprise she starts to laugh. But! On a good way, not trying to mock at me or anything like that… I think.

“C’mon Ignis! You can block penalty shots, play the guitar, and sing quite decent and other amazing stuff! I bet that you can dance pretty well! Heck, even I am not a pro dancer!” She says poking my belly. “We are just doing this for fun, are you game?”

Somehow she… inspired me to pay that game. But, if she wants to have fun then so be it. “Get your game on!” I said clashing my knuckles together.

“Which song should we pick?” She says as we both look for a song of the playlist.

I… do not know ANY of those songs. At this point I am regretting accepting that but… well, at least there is no one who can-

“Well, well, look who is here.” I said every single swear I know when I saw Hoops, Dumb-Bell and Score. Hoops said standing next to the platform. “Boringsol playing a dancing game with Crash? This is gotta be good!”

“More like a waste of time!” Dumb-Bell added.

They started to mock at us. I, almost, jumped to confront them but Rainbow took my arm. She shakes her head as I tried to stay calm.

“What the heck are you doing here?!” I asked.

“Since… a certain pair of lovebirds accused us to Principal Celestia, we ended up doing some public service.” Score called.

“Yeah, we have to help the old man Discord with his daily routines.” Hoops said pointing at Discord as he gives them a death stare.

“Move your arses, the three of you!” Discord commanded them.

The trio disbands as they continue doing their activities, looks like they are going to be around, But, if they mock at Rainbow again, then I will show them my moves.

Ignoring what just happened, I noticed a song Arctika loves so much. “Let’s go with that one.” I said to Rainbow.

“Thriller, uh? Sure you can keep up?” She asks teasing me.

“I w-will try.” I replied rubbing the back of my head.

“Do or do not, there is no try.” She added tapping my back. Wait, did she just quote Yoda? Goddesses she is perfect.

ANYWAY!

“S-Sure.” And so the game starts.

***

Well, of course that had to happen. Rainbow totally kicked my digital butt, once again.

“Damn… Rainbow… how can you move… so…”

“Awesome? I am surprise too!” She says crossing her arms. Cocky Rainbow.

Still, I was going to say fast… but it is quite the same. Awesome, fast… no? OK… However, I noticed some people giggled, maybe because I suck at this and Rainbow seemed to be a pro next to me.

“Let’s go… with this one!” She says picking ‘I gotta a feeling’. Sure I do have one. I’ve got a bad feeling about this.

I had to take a grip on the banister behind me; my balancing sucks so… at least I think I am doing it better that last time.

So far so good, once the song finished Rainbow, gently, pushed me. I almost fell. But, then I noticed why she did it. We ended up getting the same score.

“Wow… guess I am getting better at this.” I said looking for another song.

“You almost got me, but hey, Do not get cocky, Torchie.” She said with a smirk.

Eyup, I know that with that one is the third phrase we had said about Star Wars… But you and I know that there is going to be another one.

“Oh, I know this one too. Let’s hit it.” I said choosing ‘Y.M.C.A.’

“…”

“……”

Guess who just beat Rainbow, oh yeah baby. Blazingsol has turned the tides!

“That was marvelous!” I said looking at the score, then at Rainbow and she seems impressed.

“You got lucky.” She replied crossing her arms. “I lost my focus.”

“What made you lose your focus?” I asked curiously.

I do not know why she blushed but she did. She just pointed at me, I rise and eyebrow and confused by what is going on. So… uh…

“Nice moves, Blazingsol.” I heard a voice I have not heard in years. It was husky like mine but with a classy accent. I looked over my shoulder and there he was. A golden hair boy, almost as tall as me, stands there.

“Echo Prime?” I get off the platform and just hugged that bastard. “By the Goddesses, it is you!”

Echo taps my back as I let go of the hug. “Nice to see you, mate.” He says.

“Same here, where have you been? Why did you never call us?! Does anyone else know you are here?” I just asked quite a lot questions but I want to know!

“Many places, I tried but I forgot your number and, no, you are the only one who knows about me.” He said placing his backpack on the ground. She then looks at Rainbow as she approaches.

“Uh… Ignis? Is he a friend of yours?” She asks.

“Not only a friend, he is my childhood friend. Echo, this is Rainbow Dash. She is a student back at Canterlot High School and the most amazing soccer player you will ever see. Rainbow, this is Echo Prime, he… aims to become a Captain at the Royal Navy.”

“Do not let Astral hear you.” Echo replied with a chuckle. “I am honored to meet you, Dash.” He said shaking hands with her.

“Hey, a friend of Ignis is also a friend of mine. I will get some drinks while you boys catch up, OK?” She said before running to where Discord is.

Echo then giggled as he taps my shoulder. “So, she is the girl who drives you crazy, uh?”

“Wait, what? H-How do you know that?!” I asked surprised.

“Well, it is written all over your face and you have not accepted to dance if you were not doing it just to impress her.” Echo… you SOB, nothing can pass through him.

“You got me.” I said. “So, what brings you to this part of the world?”

“To put it simple, I am on vacations. I thought that coming to Canterlot and visiting my old friends would be a nice idea. Here I am.” Echo said rising his arms. “How are you holding up, mate?”

“Things here are good here, mate. You should tag alone with us, you will love Canterlot. It is amazing living here.” I said placing a hand on his shoulder.

“What about Astral and Noire?”

“They are also students at CHS and Astral and I are on the soccer team.”

“That sounds awesome mate. I understand why you said that Dash is an amazing soccer player. You joined the team because of her, right?” He said poking my shoulder.

“You have become smarter.” I said teasing him. “Yeah, you are right.”

“How is Arctika?”

“You know, being an egghead and all that. But, I would be lost if she wouldn’t be here.” I said rubbing the back of my head.

Rainbow returns with three bottles, one of them is a soda and two of them are orange juices. “Here, I thought that since you two are close friends, you will like the same things.” She said tossing me and Echo a bottle of orange juice.

“You are right, Dash.” He said opening the bottle. “But, I do not want to… interrupt you guys so I-“

“No you are not!” Rainbow and I said at the same time.

“C’mon mate, let’s see how good you are.” I said grabbing Echo by his neck and began to mess with his hair, Rainbow giggled as I dragged him to the dancing game.

“Alright Prime, ready to face me?” It was Rainbow who challenged him fist. Better him than me.

“I will accept your trial, Dash.” Echo said stretching his arms. Before they start to dance, I climbed up from behind Echo’s spot and whispered at him.

“I should warn you that she is good, like really good. The chances of beating her are-“

“Never tell me the odds, mate.” Echo said turning pulling out his hat and turns it backwards.

Rainbow chose the song but then she looks at me.

“So… Ignis? Who are you going to cheer up? To your old friend or me?” She had to ask that. I tried to say something but Rainbow starts to laugh. “I am just joking with you, Torchie.”

“Torchie?” Echo said rising an eyebrow and turns his torso to me. “It suits you, mate.”

I just drank from my orange juice and watched them play. My money is on Rainbow, of course.

***

“Bloody Hell! She is good!” Echo yelled trying to keep up with the song.

“Told you.” I replied as Rainbow lifts her arms into the air, she won… of course.

Once we were going to go for another round, my stomach sang the song of its people. Rainbow chuckled as I blushed a little and Echo just laughed.

“Let’s go and get and something to eat.” Rainbow added.

“Yes please.” I replied.

Lucky for me, it did not take long before the three of us ended up eating the best hamburgers in Canterlot, also the fact that Derpy was the one who took our orders. That girl is everywhere.

I was a bit worried that Rainbow would not agree that Echo should tag alone but I was wrong. They seem to enjoy hanging out. Oh, and do not get the wrong idea. I will never be jealous for someone like Echo. The thing is… he has a tiny, innocent crush on… Arctika.

“No way!” Rainbow exclaimed. “Did you really do that Ignis?!”

“I was shitting my pants but… yeah.” I said shrugging my shoulders as Echo laughs.

“I still remember the way Astral and Ignis came out of that house, Ignis carrying Astral on his back and the ball on his free hand as they were being chased by the neighbor’s Rottweiler.” Echo then chuckled. “It was marvelous.”

“We were like 10 years old. But, then I became the master of Rock-Paper-Scissors and got my revenge!” I said giving a bite to my hamburger.

“What did you make him do?” Rainbow asked curiously.

Echo almost spat his drink but managed to contained it. “Throw some toilet paper at the house of… I believe it is your Principal back at CHS.”

Rainbow… spat her drink into the air. “You what?!” I began to laugh followed by Echo and finally Rainbow. “Damn, I wish I should have met you boys before. It seems that you were a chaos when you were kids.” She said chuckling.

“Not to mention that Arctika and Noire tried to stop us, but! We always knew how to evade them so we can go pranking.” Echo added.

“Well, now that Mr. Toilet Paper is here, then maybe you can join us, Rainbow.” I said fist-bumping Echo.

“I AM GAME!” Rainbow replied.

“We should change our name, instead of being the Mayhem Trio we shall be known as the Maelstrom Quartet.” Echo added.

Once we all finished our meals, we headed to the parking lot. It is kid of late so I need to drive Rainbow to her place.

“Hey Echo, do you have a place to stay?” I asked as I put on my helmet.

“I just look for a hotel, mate.” Echo replied typing on his phone.

“No way! You are going to my place!” I exclaimed.

“Easy mate, I still need to do some shopping. I accept your offer, though.” Echo added. “So, give your address and I will meet you there.”

I gave him my address and once Rainbow and I were all set, I set course to her place. We waved at him as he waves at us back.

“He seems like a nice guy.” Rainbow said.

“Astral and he are like brothers to me, so… yeah. He is a nice dude.” I replied giggling.

“I still cannot believe that you were the prank type when you were a kid. You… were shy, almost like Fluttershy.” Rainbow then poked my side.

“What can I say? They seduced me to the Dark Side.” I chuckled as I stop in front of Rainbow’s building.

“Alright hotshot, thanks for everything.” Rainbow said taking off her helmet. “It was fun.” She added.

I lifted up my visor and nodded. “So… guess I will see you later.”

“Yeah, hey… “I look at her as she twirls her hair. “Drive safe.” She says opening the door and waving at me.

Holy Guacamole, she cares about me.

I was daydreaming when I got a message from Arctika. ‘I have some amazing news, hurry up so I can tell you!’ Did Echo arrived before me or… is it something else? Guess I will find out.

Welp, I made it home and no one is around. So, there is gotta be something I do not know. I opened the garage and take off my helmet. I proceed to the living room when Ruby jumped at me and well, she tackled me quite hard. I fell on my butt as she licks my face. “Easy girl! I am here!” I, somehow, managed to get up and by my surprise Astral and Noire are here.

“Hi there, lover boy.” Noire said.

I made a force smile at her as I sit next to my sister, Ruby jumps and cuddles on my lap, looks like someone is a bit jealous. They are watching Jurassic World, cool. “So, what news do you have, sis?” I said stealing a portion of her popcorn.

“Hey, those are mine!” She coughs and tries to stay calm. “To put it simple, I… heard Vice-Principal Luna speaking with some guy call Timber and-“

“Isn’t he the one in charge of the Camp Everfree?” Noire asked.

“Let her finish.” Astral added.

“As I was saying… guys, I think we are going there! To the Camp!” Arctika sounded way too excited.

I, once again, stole some popcorn from her. “Wfhat isd da furpose?” I asked with my mouth filled with popcorn.

“I have no idea!” Arctika said smiling. “But! If I have to guess, they are planning this as a school trip, the semester is coming to an end.”

Everyone nodded as the Indominous Rex makes her way out of her… cage? I forgot the exact word from that. Anyway! I kind of feel excited about Arctika’s news.

“Sounds awesome.” I was going to take some popcorn but Arctika slapped my hand. “Auch!”

Astral and Noire giggled. “Do you know the date of departure?” Astral asked.

“Nope.” Arctika replied crossing her arms. “It has to be soon, I think.”

“In that case.” I reached a soda. Arctika tried to take it away from me. “Hey stop, this one is mine!” I opened it and gave it a gulp. “Alright, so… I… also have news, for all of you.” They look up at me with a curious look. “I… met someone back at the Arcades and you are not going to believe who-“

Someone just rang the door bell. Ruby immediately ran to the door as she barks.

“Are we expecting more visitors?” Astral asked.

Ruby started to bark as I ran to the door and opened it, it is Echo. I whispered at him to wait for my command. “Look who showed up!” That was the signal so Echo can make his entrance.

“Your old friend, Echo!” He says tossing his backpack to the sofa and lifting his arms into the air.

Astral and Noire get up faster than I thought and before I knew it, I got stuck in the middle of a group hug… Help me…

“SO GOOD TO SEE YOU, MATE!” Astral said messing with his hair.

“The gang is complete!” Noire added.

I saw Arctika playing with her ponytail as she looks at us.

“H-How are you, Echo?” Arctika asked as we break the hug.

“F-Fine, It is good seeing you. All of you!” Echo rubbed the back of his head.

Mmm… I sense a disturbance in the Force… Arctika acts different when Echo is around so… yeah. Let’s see what happens next.

Now we are enjoying the hunt for the Indominous Rex, I managed to stole, again, some popcorn from my sister’s bowl.

“Those are mine!” She yelled punching my arm.

Echo smoothly took some too since he is sitting next to her. “Mind if?”

“You can take more! If you want!” Arctika replied.

Welp, that is my sister everyone.

“Stahp whining, sis.” Then an idea hit me like a truck. “Hold your pegasus everyone! Before Echo’s arrival we were discussing something about Camp Everfree, right?” Everyone nods. “Sooooo, if we are going then Echo should join us too!”

“That will be great, mate!” Echo instantly replied. “But… are you sure that it is a good idea talking to Principal Celestia after what we did a few years ago?”

Astral giggled and grabs a can of soda. “Pfff! Nonsense! I bet that she does not remember who did that!”

“Do you really think that?” Noire asked.

“I mean… we ran as fast as we could AND we were wearing disguises!” Astral replied with an innocent smile.

I looked at my sister as she quietly eats her popcorn. “Maybe… we can send the top student of my class to… negotiate with Principal Celestia.”

Arctika nodded. “I will see what I can do.”

Uh? She agreed faster than I thought. I looked at the time and, “Damn, it is that late already?!”

Noire and Arctika suddenly get up and yelled. “Slumber Party!!!” Astral, Echo and I had to cover our ears.

“Just like old times!” Noire added.

A few minutes passed and before I knew it Astral, Echo and Ruby are in my room. Noire is on Arctika’s room. I let those morons sleep on my bed so they are on top, as for me, I am on my sleeping bag. But Ruby is here with me to keep me company.

We were watching some random movies on the TV but… we ended up doing something else. Aaaaand we ended up playing Smash or Pass…

“What about, Trixie?” Echo asked.

“No.Fricking.Way.” I replied.

What happened next kind of… scared me. Astral actually gave it a thought! Echo and I looked at him, waiting for an answer.

“What?” He said. “I mean… she has… something but! I am not in the position to answer that.” Astral said giggling.

“Riiiight.” I added and started to rub Ruby’s belly.

“C’mon mate, it is your turn. Do not play dumb.” Echo said throwing me a peanut.

“I…uh… Wha… I pass! Astral, you are up!” Did I sound nervous? Nah.

I know that he exchanged looks with Echo as they giggled. “If you say so. Let’s see… What about Dash?”

…

YOU SON OF A BITCH!

They started to laugh as my face turned red, just like Ruby’s eyes. I crossed my arms as they keep laughing. Well, you can say that I gave them and answer…

“I take that as a bloody YES.” Echo replied.

“Hey buddy, are you mad?” Astral asked.

“O-Of course not… It is just that… you are a pair of idiots.” I swear that I am going to kill them… in their sleep.

I heard footsteps coming to my door, Arctika opened the door. “Keep your voice down! We can hear your stupid game from my room!”

“So you heard that Astral and AJ made it at the library?” I asked… without thinking it twice. Arctika blushed a little and quietly nodded. Then I grabbed a pillow and threw it at her. “Oh! Right in the face!”

“He is fucked!” Echo managed to say before Arctika jumped at me and started to punch me on my arms. As we keep this friendly and funny fight, Echo and Astral are enjoying what is left of the cookies Noire cooked before heading to bed.

“Idiot.” Arctika said.

“Crazy.” I replied.

“Moron.” She added.

“Tsundere.” I exclaimed as she blushed even harder.

“Asshat.” She said flicking her hair and heads to her room.

“Awww… I love you too sis!” I managed to say before she closed the door.

I lay down on my sleeping bag as Ruby cuddles with me. I… whispered at her. “Who is a good girl? Who is a good girl?” She then licked my face until I heard those two laughing. “What do you morons know about pet/owner love?”

“Quiet, mate. I was thinking… what do girls do to have fun at night?” Echo asked sitting at the edge of the bed.

Astral raised his arm. “Normally I would say things like painting their nails, covering their faces with avocado and cucumbers on top of their eyes. But I then remembered that Ark and Noire will NEVER do that! Unless Rarity convinces them.”

We all laughed. It was a good one.

“Sure they are not that ‘girly’.” I said. “But hey, Arctika takes ages to dress up. We barely made it to Father’s Ceremony.”

“But why are you curious?” Astral asked the real question here.

“Well, she called our game stupid but I have heard girls playing it too.” Astral and I looked at Echo confused.

“Yeah, like that would happen!” We all said.

One second later…

“What about Big Mac?” Arctika asked.

“Nnnnnope.” Noire replied.

“Snips?”

“Too dumb.”

“Flash?”

“Never.”

“Thunderlane?”

“Ark… really?” Noire added crossing her arms. Not amuse.

“Right, so… who is left?” Arctika exclaimed. “The only ones left are those three and well, one is your brother the other one is… Echo and my bro-“ Arctika was left speechless when Noire started to play with her hair. “Noire?! ARE YOU SERIOUS?!”

“You have to admit that Ignis has grown up!”Noire then ate a cookie as an awkward silence takes place. “What?” She asked. “I mean, he is kind of cute.”

“Noire… stop please.” Arctika added. Noire starts to laugh as Arctika tries to understand what the heck is going on.

“I am just kidding!” Noire said. “At least… 70% of what I said was a joke.”

“W-What was real then?” Arctika asked curiously.

“That your brother is cute!” BAM! A pillow hits Noire’s face.

Back to Astral, Echo and… me.

“So, if we are going to Camp Everfree then someone has to make his move, don’t you think Astral?” Echo asked poking Astral’s shoulder.

“Oooh, definitely.” Astral replied.

“What do you mean?” I had to ask, didn’t I?

“Ignis… mate; you have to make you move with Dash!” Echo leans in front of my bed, I looked up at him and sighted. “What is the matter?”

“Nothing… just… I do not think… that… it is too soon!” Heck even Ruby is trying to comfort me now.

“Hey, when I saw you spending time with her I saw something between you two. It was not something just ‘friends’ do. I am pretty sure that she, if not already, she has a crush on you.” Echo can be… quite a moron for some things but when it comes to motivate people around him, giving them a real view of the scene… well, he does a pretty good job.

“OK, I get it. I will do my best. Just… do not put pressure on me.” I replied.

“Welp, goodnight everyone!”

***

“School… just… a few… more weeks and the semester ends!” I shouted raising my arms.

“I know!” Astral replied.

“Uh… you know that I am just here because of you, right?” Echo said as we all stop in front of the Main Gate of CHS.

I placed my arm around his neck and pulled him just to mess with his hair. “Yeah, well, you are coming with us to the Camp! That is if our info is correct.”

“You seem to be well-informed, Mr. Blazingsol.” I am going to look behind me and… Vice-Principal Luna is standing there. “Good morning.” She says flicking her hair.

“D-Does that mean we ARE going to Camp Everfree?” Noire asked.

Vice-Principal Luna nods and gives her a paper with the logo of the Camp. It looks more like an invitation.

We all gathered around Noire to take a closer look at the sheet. After mumbling for a couple of seconds we looked up at Vice-Principal Luna and gave us a smile.

“I hope that you all ready to spend the last days of the semester at Camp Everfree.” She said as she enters the school.

“I CANNOT WAIT!” Arctika yelled in excitement.

“THE HYPE IS REAL!!!” I… did not notice that I never let go of Echo. At this point he is… kind of suffocating. “Sorry, mate.” He recovers some air but then he hides behind me like a little cat.

“What is wrong with him?” Astral asked. He looks at Principal Celestia walking towards us. “Oh, that is why.”

“Good morning everyone.” Principal Celestia gives us a warmth smile. She then peeks behind me. “Oh, it is good to see you again, Mr. Echo Prime.”

“G-Greetings… P-Principal Celestia.” Echo replies, is he nervous?

It is Hero Time!

“Principal Celestia! I was wondering if Echo can join us to the school trip.” I rushed to ask.

She took a moment to answer, but once she nodded Echo felt relieve and his soul coming back to him.”

“Of course he can.” She passes next to us but stops next to him and whispered something at him. “As long as you do not throw toilet paper at the Camp, then I approve it.” Principal Celestia continues greeting other students and makes her way to her office.

“Then it is official! We are all going!” I clashed my knuckles together.

“YAAAAY!”

“Hold on a sec.” Astral said interrupting our Group High Five. “We are not going until next weekend.”

“You son of a Bi-!” The bell just rang! “RUN! I do not want to be late!” I yelled… actually, we all yelled.

…

Timeskip!

***

“Socks, check. Shirts, check. Yeah! I am ready to go!” I took my suitcase as Ruby follows me to my sister’s room. “Arctika *knock*, Arctika *knock*, Arctika *knock*.You ready?”

“I… hate it when you do that!” She replied as she opens the door. “Yes, I am ready.” She throws me her suitcase but managed to catch it, almost, with one hand.

“Damn, this thing is heavy; you do realize that we are staying just for one week, right?” I asked as we go downstairs.

“AJ should be here any moment now.” Arctika said wrapping her hair into her classic ponytail. “I still cannot believe that she and Astral are on a relationship.”

“Yeah… I… kind of… witnessed… their… you know.” I put a hand behind my head. “At least Big Mac offered to take care of Ruby while we are gone.”

In that moment Ruby rubs her nuzzle on Arctika’s leg. “I am going to miss you girl!” She says rubbing her sides. “Do not worry; I am going to take care of him.” Ruby barked as a sign of approval.

I was going to say something but I heard a truck parking outside. Once outside, I saw Big Mac and Applejack waving at us.

“Hop in everyone!” AJ says as Arctika sits next to her, as for me I put the suitcases on top of the luggage rack, carefully tightening the rope from my side as Big Mac tightens his side. He gives me a thumps up as I sit next to my sister, Ruby cuddles on my lap! HA! I get to spend this time with her.

We are supposed to go to CHS first and from there to Camp Everfree. The trip was shorter, mot of the time we walk to CHS but sure we needed the ride. Anyway, my sister and I gave Ruby her favorite chew toy. A Blue Eyes White Dragon.

“See you in a week, girl.” I said as Ruby licks my face and then licks Arctika’s. “Thanks again, Big Mac. You sure you do not need anything else?”

“Nope.”

“Right, thanks again!” Arctika and I waved as he sets off.

I was going to pick up the suitcases but Astral and Echo jumped at me.

“There you are mate!” Echo shouted.

“My back!” I landed on my own suitcase. I heard footsteps coming towards us, it is Rainbow, AJ and Rarity. “Hello there.”

“You had to pick the black shirt, don’t you Ignis?” Rainbow says lending me a hand so I can get up. Oh, and yeah. I picked up since we need to wear a distinctive but equal outfit. “Well, you know I like black.” I overheard Astral and Echo giggling. I swear that I am going to kill them on their sleep at the Camp.

“Gather up everyone!” Principal Celestia said at the bus door. “We are going on the same bus, so start boarding. Oh, and you better sit with a friend. The road is long but we will be comfortable.

Let’s see… Astral is going with Echo; my sister is going with Noire… then that leaves with… myself… great. I noticed that Rainbow is like… she wants to say something but looks like she is waiting for something.

“Dash, Blazingsol! Hurry up!” Sunset opened the window and called for us from inside the bus.

Ooooh, she wanted to come with me… silly me.

“We are coming!” Rainbow suddenly woke up from her daydreaming, took my hand and dragged me to the bus.

The next that happened is that I found myself at the window seat. That is great. My favorite spot if I may add. I turned to my leftt and… Rainbow is looking at the landscape, some houses and even farms that are just outside Canterlot. But then I realized something, something really important.

“She is too close to me.”

“Did you say something?” Rainbow asked without losing sight at the horizon.

“N-nothing!” I said as she returns to her normal posture. A scent of citrics came to me. Could it be that her hair smells like that? “So, Rainbow… would you like to play thumb wars?” Seriously? That was my best thing to say?!

“Sure, just keep in mind that I hate losing.” She replied cracking her fingers.

Can’t believe that worked!

“Loser pays the first round of sodas at the Camp!” I replied as we hold each other hands.

“Game on!” She replied tightening the grip on my fingers.

…

……

This is it, if I lose then I would have to pay, but if I win two more then SHE lose and free soda once we get to the Camp.

“Nervous, Dash?” I asked with a grin.

“You wish, Blazingsol.” She replied going with a surprise attack on my thumb.

I have to admit that she is fast but predictable at some points. Behind us are AJ and Sunset watching out little game. AJ cheers for her but Sunset supports me. I might even share with her a soda once I defeat Rainbow.

“HA! I win!” I yelled crushing her thumb.

“Y-You got lucky! I was not paying attention!” She said crossing her arms.

“Oh yeah? The you should focus more on the game than… in whatever distracted you.” I said rubbing my hand on my shirt. “Alright, it is all or nothing.”

She smirks at me and gets in position. “One… two… three!”

AND IT’S SWEET, SWEET VICTORY! YEAH!
It’s ours for the taking
It’s ours for the fight!

On a decisive her thump slipped with mine, leaving me with the chance to go for the win.

“What! How did that happened?!” Rainbow said looking at her hand.

I gave Sunset a high five for believing in me. “Team Fire! YEAH!” We both screamed. Since… you know, we both look like walking flames.

“You gave your best, Rainbow.” AJ said tapping her back. “But you can blame your sweaty hand for losing this round.”

“I want a rematch, Ignis. Let’s see how strong your arm is. A single round of arms wrestling should be enough to see who the real winner is. Of course we are going to wait until we have a table or something.” Rainbow then pulled out her phone as I nodded. She searches for her headphones but she cannot find them. “Holy Cow, did I leave them back home?!”

I pulled out mine and give them to her. “Here you can use mine.”

“Thanks, hey let’s share them. I know that we like the same kind of music.” She said plugging the headphones and hits the play button.

A couple of songs later, I noticed that we are getting closer to the Camp. I looked to see how everyone is doing. My sister is playing with her 3DS alongside Noire. Astral and Echo are… sleeping. I bet that they stayed up late last night. Sunset and AJ are talking about what kind of stuff we can do at the Camp and Twilight is… reading a book about the wildlife. You saw it coming… am I right?

***

“WE MADE IT!” Rainbow yells as the rest of us, crack our backs, grabbed our backpacks and look around the Camp.

I noticed some cabins not too far from here. They look comfy. Must… rest… now.

“Welcome to Camp Everfree students from Canterlot High School! My name is Timber and I will be your guide for this week, and you can also ask my sister, Gloriosa, if you need anything!” this guy Timber then proceeds to speak with Principal Celestia.

As they speak, Gloriosa is handing over some kind of cards to groups of three; each card has the image of a gemstone. They represent the cabin where the groups shall stay.

She approaches me just in time for Echo and Astral to gather around me.

“Hello boys, here.”She gives the card with a ruby on it. “Have fun! And please, enjoy the camp!”

“Will do!” Astral replied.

“What a coincidence that we get the ruby cabin, am I right mate?” Echo said taping my back.

“Yeah, I miss her already.” I looked at my sister as she speaks with Noire and Rainbow. She waves at me with, I think, is an emerald on the card. “The girls are going to be next to us.”

Astral puts an arm around my neck and pokes and shoulder with his other hand. “What is it, buddy? Does that make you nervous?”

“Not really.” I replied punching him, gently, on the belly. “C’mon morons, we need to get out stuff to the cabin.”

I opened the door and noticed three beds, some photos hanging in the wall with beautiful landscapes and a small window. There is a small desk in front of each bed and some towels.

“I want the left one!” Astral said as he jumps to the bed.

“Middle one!” Echo added.

“Right! I mean… I get the right one.” I placed the backpack on my bed and noticed a picture, at first I did not care too much but then, taking a second look, I noticed that Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna are there.

“Guess this is not their first time here.” Astral commented. “So, what are we going to do first? Archery? Wall climbing? Ropes course? Uh… fishing?”

“Fishing? Are you serious?” Echo instantly replied. “Hey Ignis boy, let’s shoots some arrows!”

“Yeah, count me in. But don’t you ever call me Ignis-boy again or I will shoot an arrow on your ass.” I said with a friendly smile.

“Fine, fine. Whatever you say… Torchie.” Echo… you bastard.

We headed outside just to see Applejack with some fishing rods, begin followed by Rainbow, and she looks already bored if I may add, Noire looks… excited, and my sister who… looks… nervous. Hey, it’s a secret but… she does not know how to swim. But there is nothing to worry about; she is going with Rainbow and Noire, I know that they are good swimmers.

“Hello fellas, wanna join us to catch dinner?” AJ said as Astral ran to her and kissed her.

“I will! But those two are heading to the field archery so…” Astral got interrupted as Echo and I ran so fast to get our fishing rods that we came back gasping for air.

“I… want to join the hunt for dinner!” My hunter instincts are tingling!

“I… am going just because I find exciting the idea of fishing on an unknown lake!” Echo the giggled as Rainbow and Arctika looked at each other confused at first but then they smile.

“Alright!” Applejack said swinging her arm. “The bigger the group the better and don’t ya’all worry! This is going to be fun!”

4 hours later…

“Hey… AJ, any luck?” Astral asked yawning.

“Uh… not as good as I expected.” Applejack replied. She looks at the empty bucket beneath her feet. “Not a single fish in hours. This is weird.” She then looks at the second boat where Echo, Noire and Arctika are. Arctika seems to be keeping her cool as Noire and Echo are struggling to capture a fish. They succeed! “Well, at least they got one. How about Ignis and Rainbow?”

Astral turns around just to see both of us asleep, Rainbow laying her head on my shoulder. Just before I fell asleep, I tied up the rod on my right hand. I thought that the movement would wake me up. This is your answer.

“They fell asleep… again.” Astral said taking a deep breath. “We should head back before nightfall.”

Applejack nods but sighs. “Sorry, I said that this was going to be fun and well... things went the other way.”

“Cheer up, AJ. I… enjoyed this time with you and everyone here. Sure we did not catch fish for everyone but spending time with the people I truly care is the best thing I could ever ask.” Astral might not know this but he sounded sappy as hell. Thank the Goddesses I was asleep!

They were going to kiss but a scream interrupt them.

“WOMAN OVERBOARD!!” Noire yelled as Arctika is trying to swim back to the boat.

Astral get up and made signs to get Echo’s attention. “What the hell happened?!”

“Something pulled her to the lake!” Echo replied as they help Arctika. “You OK?”

Arctika starts to laugh but her laughter sounds creepier than usual. “I… almost die… and my stupid little brother is sleeping. I am going to kill him on his sleep with a spoon… ha… haha…”

Noire smiles and gives them a thumps up. “She is fine!”

It was at this moment I felt it. The rod started to reel so fast that once it got stuck, I managed to return to my senses.

“What the… FUUUUUUUUUUUCK!” I grabbed the rod with both hands as I try not to fall into the water. Rainbow immediately grabbed my waist and started to pull.

“What is that thing?!” She asks struggling to keep me on the boat.

“I don’t know but whatever you do, DON’T LET GO!” This is it, all those hours fishing on Ocarina of Time and Final Fantasy XV are going to be my trump card! “I SPENT HOURS HERE! I AM HUNGRY AS HELL! YOU ARE GOING TO GET FRIED!”

“You got this buddy!” Astral cheers for me and so does Applejack.

“Woohoo! Go for it Blazingsol!” Applejack says swinging her hat.Just before that, the flicking fish started to pull the entire boat.

“THAT IS NOT A NORMAL FISH!!!” Rainbow yelled as the boat is being pulled all around the lake, at some point we are in collision route with Arctika’s boat.

“Abandon boat!” Echo yelled as our boat crashes with theirs.

***

Sunset looks up at the sky, the wind gently blowing making her long hair wave in one direction. “Where are they?” She asks leaning her back against the wall of her cabin.

Twilight then appears with her phone. “I tried to contact them but no one is picking up. I… am starting to worry.”

Rarity taps her back and comforts her. “I am sure that they are fine, darling. If there is a group capable of doing such a task like that, it is them!” Sunset then takes a closer look at some figures approaching from the lake.

“There they are!” Sunset says before she starts running towards us.

I looked up just to see Sunset being followed by Rarity and Twilight. “Oh, hello there!” I said waving at them, Arctika then tightens her grip with her legs on my wrist. Oh, I am giving her a piggyback since she is a little bit tired for swimming like… a lot. “Is it cold?” She just nods.

Just next to me are Echo, Applejack and Astral pulling a wagon, with AJ leading them. “C’mon fellas! Use your muscles!” Right behind me are Rainbow and Noire carrying all of our stuff.

Damn we are all so wet right now that my sister might get a –

“Achu!” She sneezes and rubs her nose with her finger. “Hurry up brother!!”

“What happened to you?!” Sunset asked then she looks at the… fish on top of the wagon. “and what in the Seven Kingdoms is that??!!”

Rarity takes a sneak peek and gasps. “Oh my Gosh! Is it… alive?”

“Nope!” I replied.

Twilight adjusted her glasses and pulled out her small notebook. “I-I cannot believe it! You guys captured an Ictalurus furcatus or blue catfish.” She says giggling. “Wow, this thing sure is big! This fella has a length of 57 in (145 cm) and a massive girth of 47 in (120 cm).”

“But… how did you managed to capture it?” Sunset asks at the moment we arrive at the Camp. Fluttershy and Pinkie appeared with some towels. Our saviors!

“You can thank our Boy Scout for that!” Rainbow said hitting my side with her elbow.

“Well… after that thing sunk both of our bots, I voted to use my secret weapon.” From my backpack I pulled out a kukri. “Father says that never leave home without it.” And showed it to Sunset.

“You… brought a knife… here?!” Rarity asked can’t tell if she was amazed or… scared.

“It’s a kukri… but at this point we are all glad that he did!” Echo said giggling.

“Best fight between man and fish ever!” Astral added.

“Who is ready to eat it?!” I yelled as we all sneezed. It was like a fricking orchestra of sneezes. “OK… maybe after we all change to dry clothes.” We nodded and entered into our respective cabins.

***

…
Can’t believe I find myself in a ‘Arts and Crafts’ lesson but silly me, I just wanted to craft something out of wood but I never expected that we are to take a lesson before going to the actual crafting part.

But, lucky for me I already have a design to go for. A pegasus. I saw Astral making one for AJ so… I thought… that… I could… make one for Rainbow. I hope that she likes it.

Bulk was nice for letting me tag alone with him, I did not want to go alone in the first place and he told that he needed pot holders… uh, OK.

Just before the lesson I also heard that campers usually leave something for the Camp, like a present. It could be a Totem, a sun watch. Since we arrived here, Twilight and the girls have been thinking on something but once we captured that fish, well, Timber decided to dissect it and hang it on the wall. Yeah, that means that we did not eat it… but it was us who managed to catch ‘The Kaiju Cat’ that was the campers before us called it. What a ridiculous name, am I right?

Anyway, the time to start crafting has begun.

“Looking good, Blazingsol!” Timber shows up. “Have you done this before?”

“Yeah, once. I made a lion to my sister a few years ago. But a Pegasus is more difficult, the wings are my concern.” I said stretching my arms.

“You will do great, I mean, it is for the girl, am I right? Just make sure not to cut yourself!” Timber says before checking on Lyra.

How the hell did he know that this is for… ANYWAY! I should continue this later. It’s lunchtime! I placed the, almost, finished pegasus on my backpack and got out.

I headed to the dock and joined with my friends, by my surprise, Rainbow and Sunset where there too.

“Hey it’s Mr. Kaiju Hunter.” Echo said calling me again like that. At least is better than Ignis-boy.

They are all sitting on a single line, so Rainbow and Sunset made a space for me to sit. “That is me, please no pictures.”

“Careful everybody, his ego is rising faster than I expected.” Rainbow commented.

“As long as it does not reach his level of stupidity, we will be fine.” Arctika just wrecked me there.

“Says the one who does not how to swim!” I sat down and gave my subway a bite.

Things were smoother as we enjoyed the view and the food Pinkie made for us, the rest of the girls came and we were having a small party here. I lay down on my back to rest my back as my sister sits next to me and Rainbow on my left. I heard them talking a little bit but I think I fell asleep for a short time.

I overhear them talking about how they met, Arctika is not an athlete. She needed to pass gymnastics in order to get a scholarship, so, she joined the track team. Bad idea. Lucky for her, Rainbow Dash helped to get in shape. It was thanks to her that she got that scholarship. A smirk appeared on my face as they continue talking, and I am pretty sure that at some point they a talked about me since I heard my name and nickname several times alongside some laughter.

A few hours passed and the only ones here are Rainbow, Arctika and I.

“Those were the good old times.” Arctika said.

“I am pretty sure that more will come!” Rainbow added.

I remembered that I am suppose to finish that pegasus, so I pulled it out and made some final touches. I do not mind that Rainbow is here. I was planning on giving to her as soon as possible.

Arctika looked at me, then she smile and get up. “Well, I need to help Noire with… her stuff. See you later!”

Uh… what? I DID NOT SEE THAT ONE COMING!

Rainbow then looked at the wooden pegasus. “It looks so cute!” She says smiling.

“You like it?!” I asked giving it to her.

“It’s awesome! I can’t believe you made it in one day!” Rainbow starts to look at it closer. “Oh, sorry. I just wanted to look it closer.”

I shook my head and refused to take it back. “It was meant for you in the first place.” I said as her cheeks turned red a little bit.

“Oh, is that so? I mean… thanks!” Rainbow said rubbing the back of her head. “So… are you enjoying the camp so far?”

“Totally, I did not what to expect at the beginning. But so far it has been an excellent experience.” I replied crossing my legs. “What about you?”

“Well, everything is going good just that tiny, little accident Pinkie made at the cafeteria.” Rainbow added chuckling.

For the record, Pinkie tried to make the biggest cotton candy. She did it, but then it exploded covering the whole place in sugar. I am just glad I was not there when that happened.

“That Pinkie, always finds a way to… lighten up our lives.” I said.

“If you tried to make a pun then you failed.” Rainbow said hitting my side. We both get up but she slipped. I managed to catch her hand before she falls into the water.

“Wow, you are OK?” I asked helping her to stand on her feet. She nods but then she looks away. We, we were not this close to each other since the Festival.

“What? Do I have something on my face?” She asked.

“Well, you are cute girl. That is why I like you and-” Uh… CRAP! J-Just like that!There is no way back, that just slipped through my lips. I just said that to Rainbow and she looks confused as hell. The time now is the time! I am going to tell her everything! Right now! “Rainbow… I… have feelings for you. Since the first day that I met you, that is why I have been acting weird. You… drive me crazy. Rainbow” I took her hand and looked at her eyes. “W-Would you like to be my girlfriend?”

That’s it, I just said it. But, Rainbow is still astonished. She is standing there, staring at the ground. She let go of my hand and slowly starts to walk away. “Ignis… I… do not know what to say.” She said sobbing. “I… I… don’t-“She said before turning around and started to run.

I was left speechless but also broken from the inside. She just ran off without saying anything else. OK, then. If that is how things are going to be. I took my backpack and headed to the cabin.

Once inside, I put on my headphones pressing the play button on my phone. I need to listen to music to… keep things cool but, no. Things went totally different the way I expected. I just said to Rainbow if she wants to be my girlfriend, instead of saying something she just… ran.

I closed my fist and hit the wall so hard that the whole cabin shook, even some stuff on the walls fell. I did not care. I opened my eyes as a tear drops falls into the desk. “Did…I do something wrong?” I thought. “Did I rush things? Why did she…-“

In the meantime, Rainbow gets inside her cabin. She goes and takes the wooden pegasus I made for her and lies down on her bed. She holds it tightly against her chest. “You are an idiot, Ignis.”

Author's Note

OH YEAH BABY! I AM BACK IN BLACK! I mean, just... back. So... yeah... fishing is not really my thing. But I will do my best if I do it again! IRL.

Thanks for reading!
Be cool!