My Little Pony Friendship Is Magic With Reiner and Bertholdt Season 1by TheUnknownPhantom5ChaptersEpisode 1: Prologue: Friendship is Magic arc Part 1Episode 2: New World: Friendship is Magic arc Part 2Episode 3: Medical Attetion: Friendship is Magic arc Part 3Episode 4: Introductions: Friendship is Magic arc Part 4Episode 5: The Party: Friendship is Magic arc Part 5Episode 6: The Mare in The Moon Part 1: Friendship is Magic arc Part 6Episode 7: The Mare in The Moon Part 2: Friendship is Magic arc Part 7Episode 8: The Ticket Master: Gala arc Part 1Episode 9: Applebuck Season: Gala arc Part 2Episode 10: Griffion the Brush off: Gala arc Part 3Episode 11: Boast Busters: Gala arc Part 4Episode 12: Dragonshy: Gala arc Part 5Episode 13: Look Before You Sleep: Gala arc Part 6Episode 14: Bridle Gossip: Gala arc Part 7Episode 15: Swarm of the Centrury: Gala Arc Part 8Episode 16: The Door of Hope: Gala arc Part 9Episode 17: Winter Wrap Up: Gala arc Part 10Episode 18: Call of the Cutie: Gala arc Part 11Episode 19: A Simple Request: Gala arc Part 12Episode 20: Fall Weather Friends: Gala arc Part 13Episode 21: Sutied for Success: Gala arc Part 14Episode 22: Feeling Pinke Keen: Gala arc Part 15Episode 23: Sonic Rainboom: Gala arc Part 16Episode 24: Stare Master: Gala arc Part 17Episode 25: The Show Stoppers: Gala arc Part 18Episode 26: A Dog and Pony Show: Gala arc Part 19Episode 27: Green isn't Your Color: Gala arc Part 20Episode 28: Over a Barrel: Gala arc Part 21Episode 29: Distress: Gala arc Part 22Episode 30: A Bird in a Hoof: Gala arc Part 23Episode 31: The Cutie Mark Chronicles: Gala arc Part 24Episode 32: Owl's Well That Ends Well: Gala arc Part 25Episode 33: Party of One: Gala arc Part 26Episode 1: Prologue: Friendship is Magic arc Part 1(Attack on Titan Plays) Over a hundred years ago, the Titans appeared out of nowhere, and nearly wiped out all of humanity. The survivors constructed three fifty meter tall walls in order to escape from the Titans. The walls were named, Maria, Rose, and Sina. Humanity endorsed a hundred years of piece, until one day. In the year 845 two terrifying new breeds of Titans appeared, the Colossal and the Armored, destroying the gates of Wall Maria, and allowing the Titans to devour 20% of the human population. Five years later, the Colossal Titan returned and destroyed the outer gate of Wall Rose, in Trost District. It was also discovered that some humans had the power to turn into Titans, and one month later, the identities of the Colossal and Armored Titans were finally revealed. Two new members of the Survey Corps, Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover. Trost District Year 850. "DEFEND HIM"! a voice yelled " TO THE LAST SOLDIER IF IT COMES DOWN TO THAT! EREN MUST PLUG THE GATE! DO YOUR BEST TO KEEP THE TITANS OFF HIM"! The voice ordered. Reiner, and Bertholdt were watching from a rooftop, both thinking about what was happening, they're classmate and fellow soldier Eren Yeager could turn into a Titan like them, and Annie. Now the humans behind the walls planned on using his powers to plug the hole in Trost. " "They're trying to plug the hole up with that boulder, that's insane", Bertholdt said. "They're gambling everything, for all they know if Eren gets eaten, then their best hope will be lost forever". "His death would be a problem for us too, if he goes down I'll step in with my Titan". Reiner replied. Bertholdt looked back at Eren, then again to Reiner. "What if he doesn't, we risked alot to make that hole, are we really going to let him seal it"? Bertholdt asked. "Yeah we should, five years we've searched for a lead like this, and we've finally found it" Reiner told his friend. "Um Reiner, Bertholdt"? a voice asked. The two turned around to see another soldier, Marco Bodt standing behind them. "What were you guys talking about? Reiner and Bertholdt stared back at Marco, completely shocked and unaware of how to respond as Marco continued. "You're gonna step in with your Titan" he asked Reiner before turning to Bertholdt. "And Bertholdt, you said you made that hole, what is this"? "Marco". Reiner began to reply. "Everything you heard. Was a joke". " Marco then chuckled nervously "Come on you to! This is no time to be silly! Look the Titans are all around us"! Marco said as he flew away on his ODM gear. As Marco flew to help with the mission, he began to think. "Humans can turn into Titans, I know this because Eren did so. The Colossal Titan appeared and disappeared just as fast. Which means that it must be a human too, The same goes for the Armored Titan". Marco stopped on the roof of another building to think, but when he looked behind him He saw Reiner coming at him with full force, knocking him to another roof. "REINER"! Bertholdt shouted. "Reiner! what are you doing"? a shocked Marco asked. "This is some kind of joke? Right Reiner". Marco question. "Wish I could Marco". Reiner replied "Fact is you're to sharp for something like that to fool you". "SOMEBODY HEL"- Marco began to call before Reiner covered his mouth. Another soldier arrived on the scene. Annie Leonhart. "Annie you gotta help me"! Marco begged. Annie however ignored him, and turned to Reiner. "What's going on"? Annie asked Reiner. "Reiner's acting crazy, get him off me"! Marco pleaded "He heard me and Bertholdt talking, if we let him live he'll expose us". Reiner replied. Annie looked at Reiner in shock. "You shithead. What the hell"? she asked. Bertholdt looked back and noticed a Titan heading for them. "A Titan, it's heading this way"! He called. "Annie! Take off Marco's gear"! Reiner ordered. "What why me"? Asked Annie. "Back at the headquarters, you risked your life to save Connie. Why would you put yourself in danger for him? Seems to me you're becoming sympathetic towards the enemy". Reiner replied. "Wanna convince me I'm wrong well now's the time! Think of your father, he's waiting for you to come home, he you and he are any difference from the filth within these walls then prove it here and now"! Reiner yelled. "Hey it's almost on top of us"! Bertholdt informed the other two. "ANNIE"! Reiner shouted After hearing Reiner's words, Annie began to forcibly remove Marco's Gear. "AAAAAHHAHAHHA! WHAT ARE YOU DOING"! Marco screamed. "ANNIE I THOUGHT WE WERE COMRADES! PLEASE PLEASE I DON'T WANNA DIE HERE! DON'T KILL ME"! Marco begged while Annie looked at him with tears in her eyes. Eventually she was able to take off Marco's gear and threw it into the nearby window. "You did well Annie, this is what makes us Warriors" Reiner replied shocking Marco who then remembered back to a conversation between Annie and Reiner he heard a few hours eariler, "Reiner, do we move out"? "Not yet we have to wait for them to gather" I get it, Marco thought, They we're waiting because they want the Titans to win. "Reiner, Annie, and Bertholdt then flew off leaving Marco alone on the roof. Wait". He called. "Why are you in such a rush to kill me? He asked. "I don't get it how come? WHY AREN'T YOU EVEN WILLING TO TALK TO ME WHY"!!!!!!!!! He yelled as the Titan reached him. Reiner, Annie, and Bertholdt all looked back to see the Titan grab Marco, and bite him in half. Their eyes filling with tears, Annie, and Bertholdt looked up when Reiner asked a shocking question. "Hey. Why is Marco, getting eaten"? he asked. Currently Publicly Available Information Intelligent Titans (with power to transform) An Intelligent Titan is conceived when a Pure Titan lacking intelligence consumes some other Intelligent Titan. By consuming an Intelligent Titan, it gains consciousness as well as the consumed Titan's powers. One month Later. Reiner and Bertholdt were both in a boat, sailing back to Pardis island. They had just delivered Ymir, and the Jaws Titan back to Marley. Now they were on their way back. to receive Eren Jaeger and the Coordinate. "Listen Bertholdt". Reiner said. "The first thing were going to do is rescue Annie. She had to have been discovered". "You're right, but what about Zeke"? asked Bertholdt. "He'll agree, don't worry". Reiner assured him. "And if he Doesn't"? Bertholdt asked again. "Then". Reiner had to think long and hard about what he was going to say next. "I'll Fight Him". he responded after a few minutes. "What! Are you Nuts"! Bertholdt asked. "Maybe but it might be the only way to save Annie". "You can't fight the Beast Titan Reiner! you know if he beats you, you'll loose the Armored Titan". "I'm willing to take that risk. For Annie's sake". Reiner responded. "Then let me help you". Bertholdt suggested. "No! What ever happens we're going to need the Colossal Titan for the battle with the Survey corps". Reiner said. "But Reiner"! Bertholdt began, before noticing something. "Um what's that"? he asked. "What's what Bertholdt"? Reiner pondered. "Look over there". Bertholdt said pointing in front of them. Reiner turned around, and gasped. In the middle of the ocean was a huge vortex. "What the Hell"! Reiner exclaimed. He grabbed the steering wheel of the boat, but no mater how hard he tried, the boat would not turn. "Turn us around man"! Bertholdt shouted. "I'm trying"! Yelled Reiner. However they were unable to turn in time and were both sucked into the vortex. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"! They screamed. Preview. Where are we? What happened? These are all the questions Reiner and Bertholdt are asking themselves Next Episode: New world. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Bertholdt Hoover/Colossal Titan Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Eren Jaeger/Attack Titan (Recap) Mikasa Ackermann (Recap) Armin Arlelt (Recap) Jean Kirschtien (Recap) Conny Springer (Recap) Sasha Braus (Recap) Ymir/Jaw Titan (Recap) Historia Reiss (Recap) Levi Ackermann (Recap) Erwin Smith (Recap) Hange Zoe (Recap) Moblit Berner (Recap) Dot Pyxis (Recap) Ian Dietrich (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Annie Leonhart (Flashback) Episode 2: New World: Friendship is Magic arc Part 2"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"!!!!!!!! Reiner screamed, as both he and Bertholdt were now being pulled into the vortex. "Reiner"! Bertholdt Yelled. What do we do?! "I'm going to transform into the Armored Titan, and see if I can get us out of this"! Reiner replied. Reiner pulled out a knife he had been keeping in his pocket, but before he could slash his hand a piece of their boat hit him in the head, knocking him unconscious. "REINER"! Bertholdt yelled before he too was also knocked out cold by debris from the boat. Reiner awoke with a gasp.He looked at his surroundings, and it didn't take him long to figure out that he was in a forest. "Bertholdt"! he Yelled. "Bertholdt where are you"! "Over Here"! Bertholdt called back. Reiner turned around to see standing in front of him was a strange grey horse with wings, and Bertholdt's hair "Whoa"! he gasp. Meanwhile, Bertholdt was looking at a brown horse with a horn in it's mane, and strangely looked familiar. "Bertholdt"? asked Reiner "Reiner"? asked Bertholdt. "What happend to you"?! They both asked at the same time. "Why are you a horse with wings"? Asked Reiner? "And why are you a horse with a horn"? Bertholdt responded. "I don't know". Reiner replied "What happened"? Bertholdt asked his friend. "We got pulled into that vortex, remember"? Reiner replied. "Oh yeah". Said Bertholdt. "And I think it sent us the forest of giant trees on Paradis". Reiner replied "But then, where are the Titans, and why are we horses"? asked Bertholdt. "I don't know", answered Reiner Reiner began to look around and then started singing. Bertholdt look around, not a Titan insight. This forest should be teaming with them. The sun is out, not a cloud in the sky, but the Titans aren't here to play. Bertholdt joins in I think you're right, not one single Titan. If we really are in another world, then how will we get back home? [Reiner] We head to town! the closest one nearby, and will go from there, because [Both together] We've got the power! We will work together! [Bertholdt] And no matter what happens, Are friendship is on top [Duet] We've got the power! We will work together! [Reiner] We'll save Annie, and capture Eren. [Bertholdt.] Destroy the Walls. Bring them down [Both] And we'll win The Warrrrrrrr. We've Got The Power! Currently Publicly Available Information Manticores.Dangerous creatures that live in the Everfree Forest. Theyhave the body of a lion, the wings of a bat, and the tail of a scorpion After they're little musical number, Reiner and Bertholdt kept on walking through the forest. "Man, when is this forest going to end"? asked Bertholdt. "I don't know". Reiner replied They continued walking for what felt like hours to Bertholdt, even though it had barely been three minutes, but still Bertholdt was tired of walking through this dammed forest. He was about to complain again when he notice movement in some nearby bushes. "Hey what's that"? Reiner stopped, like Bertholdt he was also tired of walking through the forest, and he was also getting incredibly annoyed with Bertholdt's constant complaining, he sighed "What's what"? Bertholdt pointed over to the bushes. "Somethings moving inside those bushes". Reiner looked over at what Bertholdt was referring to, and noticed it as well. He immediately got into a defensive position. This confused Bertholdt extremely. "What are you doing"? "Quiet! we don't know what kind of creatures inhabit this world, let alone this forest. As far as we're concerned they could be more dangerous then Titans". Reiner began to slowly walk towards the bush, meanwhile Bertholdt was looking around worriedly, unsure if something else was going sneak up behind Reiner. "Be Careful". Bertholdt said to Reiner "We don't know what's in that bush. It could be something very dangerous like Reiner said. No I can't think like that, maybe it's something harmless. Besides, if it is a dangerous creature, Reiner can just transform into the Armored Titan, and I can turn into the Colossus Titan if we wanted to". Bertholdt thought to himself. "Bertholdt! come over here"! Reiner called out. Bertholdt hesitated at first, but soon he began to slowly walk towards Reiner. "What is it"? "Look". Reiner pointed behind the push, there was a family of bunnies behind it. Two parents, and 6 babies. The babies we're playing together, hopping and sniffing each other like no tomorrow. "Awwww". Reiner and Bertholdt said in unison. The two of them watched family of bunnies for what seemed like only a few minutes. However, this peaceful moment didn't last for very long. In almost an instant, the rabbit family went from playing, and having fun, to looking absolutely petrified by something. The two stallions we're beyond confused, what were these bunnies so afraid of. The first time it hit they didn't even see it. A shadow of a creature loomed over them. Bertholdt turned to see what was casting it, only to be swatted to the side like a rag doll. His body flew across the forest floor, and into a nearby tree. Bertholdt slammed against it,the wind knocked out of him. "BERTHOLDT"! Reiner was about to run towards the fallen Pegasus, only to be pounced on by the unknown creature. Reiner felt an immense amount of pain as it sunk it's teeth into his back legs, or hooves as they now were, and began to shake him violently. Bertholdt awoke seconds later, only to see Reiner being violently mauled by the thing that swatted Bertholdt into the tree. It was some kind of lion, with bat wings, and a scorpion tail. It had Reiner's legs in it's jaws. "REINER"! Bertholdt was frozen. He had no idea what to do, should he run. No he can't leave Reiner? Transform into the Colossal Titan? No! The explosion would destroy this forest, and the ponies who inhabited any nearby towns would see him, and probably try to kill him, and Reiner like so many others have tried to before. Bertholdt remembered back to when he and Reiner revealed their identities to the scouts, and how Mikasa came so close to offing theme both. Bertholdt looked around for anything he could use, then he saw a pile of stone, just sitting there, "I might be able to use those" Bertholdt thought to himself. Bertholdt went over to the stones, and tried to pick some up, however now that his hands we're hooves he couldn't grab them. "Shit, Shit, Shit". he exclaimed Bertholdt began to panic as he saw Reiner being mauled. "If I can't grab these stones how can I save Reiner"? Bertholdt ask It was then, Bertholdt looked at his wings, and noticed that the looked a lot like hands. "Could I use my wings to grab them"? he thought. Bertholdt decided to test his theory, and low and behold he was able to lift the stones with his wings. "Ha Ha yes"! Bertholdt Exclaimed "Hang on I'm coming Reiner"! he yelled Meanwhile Reiner was still being shook like a rag doll in the Manticore's jaws. "I have no choice". he thought "I must transform into the Armored Titan. I can use my horn to stab my self in my hoof" Reiner thought. However before he could, he felt himself stop being shook. Reiner looked up, and saw that the manticore had let him go. "Wait what?" Reiner looked around, wondering what caused that thing to release it's grip on him, he saw Bertholdt, in the air, flying, or at least trying to fly as he was clearly struggling. The manticore tried to leap at Bertholdt, but the Pegasus was too high up. "Ber............tholdt". Reiner weekly mouth before falling unconscious. Bertholdt kept on throwing the stones at the manticore. It roared angrily at him, and tried to bring him down. "Take that, and That!" Bertholdt yelled. Finally the manticore backed off, and ran straight in the opposite direction, away from Reiner. Bertholdt flew down and saw Reiner's legs, both of them we're messed up fierce. If Reiner wasn't a Titan he would be dead by now. "I have to get Reiner help" Bertholdt thought. He lifted his friend onto his back and began to run for what felt like hours, until finally he saw a clearing. Bertholdt ran towards it with Reiner still on his back. When they got out of the forest Bertholdt saw what looked to be a cottage within a tree. He ran towards it and tripped on the ground. Bertholdt looked up after he fell, and saw staring back at him and Reiner's unconscious body was a yellow Pegasus with a long pink mane, with a look of both fear, and curiosity in her eyes. Preview It was supposed to be a normal day, She was supposed to take care of her animals. Now Fluttershy has two strangers at her doorstep, in dire need of help. Next Episode. Medical Attention. Author's Note Characters in order of appearance Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Eren Yeager (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Hange Zoe (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Mobilit Berner (Flashback) Hannes (Flashback) Fluttershy Episode 3: Medical Attetion: Friendship is Magic arc Part 3Celestia's morning sun shone brightly through Fluttershy's window. She slowly opened her eyes, and sat up in her bed. Stretching with a yawn, the young mare looked over at the clock, "Oh goodness! It's almost 9:00, I need to get everypony's breakfest. Fluttershy flew down the stairs and was about to get everyones food ready, when a small white bunny with a very annoyed look on his face appeared infront of her. " Oh I know Angel, you're hungry, don't worry I'm getting your breakfeast right now, and it's going to be your favaortie, cucummber, carrot salad" That put a smile on Angel's face, and he hopped away to let Fluttershy contiue her work. It took about a half hour to finish feeding all the animals inside her house, including Angel, who happily ate his salad. "Ok now it's time to feed the animals outside." Fluttershy opened the door to her cottage, and walked outside. She went over to her pound and began to feed the two Koi fish inside of it. "There you go, nice and healthy. Alright now it's time to water the flowers. Fluttershy filled up her watering can, and began to water her garden whilie humming a sweet meloday. "I love days like today, when the sun is shining in the sky, the birds chriping, and not a single cloud in sight. I can just tell that today is going to be a perfect day. Huh" Fluttershy was taken out of her thoughts by the sounds of russelting coming from the Everfree forest. She began to tremble in fear, because she knew all to well about the scary cretures that lived in the forest. She remember how when she was 10 years old. she got lost, and was almost eaten by a Timber wolf. If it wasn't for Angel distracting it, Fluttershy wouldn't be here. That experince has always made her wary of the everfree forest, she was about to run back into her cottage, when she saw what was making the russlting noises. A Pegasus stalion came stumbling out of the bushes, carrying a musclar Unicorn, on his back, and it wasn't hard to Fluttershy to deduce that the unicorn was injured. Fluttershy, and Bertholdt looked at eachother for what seemed like hours. Fluttershy then snapped back to reality. "Oh goodness! What Happend to you're friend?!" "We we're attacked by a strange Lion, with a scorpians tail, and bat wings!" "A Manticore?!" "Yeah!" Fluttershy looked at the two. "Hurry come inside!" "Ah! Right!" The three of them rushed into Fluttershy's cottage. "Put him on the couch!" Bertholdt oblidged, and set Reiner down on said couch. Fluttershy turned around to head into the kitchen "I'll be back with some bandges" She ran off into her kitchen and headed to the cabaniet where she kept her first aid kit. Oh my, this is hard to grasp, I'm used to healing animals, but not other ponies! She grabbed the bandges and rushed back to the living room. Reiner, and Bertholdt sat on the couch waiting for Fluttershy to return. "Reiner, you should be laying down" "Relax Bertholdt, I'm going to be fine" With that, steam began to come from Reiner's wounds, just as Fluttershy came walking back in with the supplies "Okay I'm back wi-" She dropped the bandges, and stared directly at Reiner, and gasped as his wounds magically healed. "Wh what just happend? How were you able to" "It's a magic spell" Reiner replied Fluttershy looked at the two, and sighed. "Oh, that makes sense, seeing that you are a unicorn" "Right, anyways I think it's time we introduced ourselves, My names Reiner. Reiner Braun. My friend here, is Bertholdt Hoover." "Hello" "Um hi, I'm Fluttershy" "I'm sorry, could you repet that" asked Reiner. "My name's Fluttershy" "Fluttershy?" The young girl nodded "Alright, nice to meet you Fluttershy" "You too, Bertholdt, and Reiner" Soon the three of them we're chatting away, Fluttershy telling Reiner and Bertholdt about how she came to realize that she had a gift with animals. However, she was curious about one thing. "Hey, Reiner?" "Hmm" "Um, what were you and Bertholdt doing inside the Everfree Forset? Don't you know how dangerous it is? "I don't know actually, we were knocked out, and woke up there." "Oh" "By the way, where exactlay are we"? asked Reiner "You guys are in Equestria, speficly near Ponyville". Fluttershy replied Hmmm it would seem we're not on Pardis Island "Why would yo-" Fluttershy was about the ask why they would want to know where they are when turned and looked at the clock, and her eyes suddenly filled with horror. "Oh no"! "What is it?" asked Bertholdt. "I was supposed to go to the market today! I needed to buy Lettuce, Tomatos, Carrots, and Celary." "Hey don't worry, you were so willing to help us when we didn't really need, so Bertholdt and I will help you" "Really! Thank you!" Fluttershy hugged the two stalions tightly, and smiled, there was something about her, both Reiner and Bertholdt saw it. The way Fluttershy acted, reminded them so much, of Christa. Currently Publicly Available Information Titan Regeneration. Those with the power to become Titans possess an inherent ability to regenerate. Their limbs can be dismembered and their internal organs destroyed, but as long as they survive, their bodies will regenerate back to normal given sufficient time Twenty Minutes Later. The three of them arrived at the market, and began to look for what Fluttershy needed to buy. "Okay first, lettuce" Fluttershy looked, and saw the lettuce stand, she was happy to see that there was no line, and she walked up to the stand "Oh good moring Fluttershy" "Good moring Mrs. Tulip, one roll of lettuce please" "Sure thing, it's the last one. That'll be one bit please". Fluttershy paid for the lettuce" "Thank you". She said "No problem, ever since you helped my cat feel better I feel like I owe you" Mrs. Tulip replied. Fluttershy smiled and headed back over to Reiner and Bertholdt, and the three of them contiued their shopping, soon enough they finshed, and where just about to head out when they heard a voice call out to them "Fluttershy, is that you" Fluttershy turned around to see her friend Rarity, and her little sister Sweetie Belle walking towards them. "Oh good moring you two" "Hello Ms. Fluttershy" "Now Sweetie Belle, Fluttershy is our friend, there's no need to be so formal." "Sorry Rarity." "So what brings you here today?" "Oh I had to do some last minute shopping." "Oh I hope it's going well." "It is." Reiner Replied, as he and Bertholdt walked towards them. "Oh Fluttershy, who are these two?" "Oh Rarity these are two new friends I made. Guys this is Rarity, and her little Sister Sweetie Belle. "Good day ladies." said Reiner "Good moring." Bertholdt replied Rarity, Sweetie Belle, I'd like you two to meet, Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover" "Hello" said Rarity. "Hi" Sweetie Belle responed politely. Soon the five of them were talking about what happend to Reiner in the Everfree Forest. "My goodness darling, so steam came out of your wounds, and caused them to heal?" "That's correct." "If you don't mind me asking, but where did you learn that spell, because I've never heard of a unicorn be able to do something like that." " Well you see. But before Reiner finished, he was intterupted by a loud explosion. "What was That"?! he asked. "It sounded like an explosion, and I think it came from Sweet Apple Acres". Fluttershy stated. "Does anyone live there"? Reiner asked. "Yeah our friend Applejack, and her family". Rarity replied That was enough for Reiner, and he ran off into the direction of the explosion. "Reiner! Wait up" yelled Bertholdt, as he follwed after his friend. "Come on!" stated Rarity, as she, Fluttershy, and Sweetie Belle, followed close behind. Preview A loud explosion coming from the north sends Reiner and Bertholdt into action. Together with their three new friends, they rush to the scene. Next Episode. Introductions. Author's Note Characters in Order of apperance. Fluttershy Angel Bunny Bertholdt Hoover Reiner Braun Historia Reiss (Vision) Mrs. Tulip Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Twist Diamond Tiara Thunderlanes Derpy Hooves Rarity Sweetie Belle Episode 4: Introductions: Friendship is Magic arc Part 4 At Sweet Apple Acres Apple Bloom was inside the barn cleaning it out. Their family dog had made a mess inside, and Apple Bloom had offered to clean it up for her family. After about an hour and a half of working she was finally done. "Alright, now that's done it's time to." Apple Bloom was intteruppted by a loud bang coming from inside the house "WOAH!" She exclaimed before heading into the house. "Inside the house, Apple Bloom's older brother Big Macantoshi was coughing, as he was fanning away a bunch of smoke, Applejack meanwhile was waving an offen mit over the smoke alarm to keep it from going off just as Apple Bloom walked in. "What in Equestria happened in here." She asked. "Big Macintosh burnt breakfeast". Applejack stated looking over at Big Mac who smiled sheepishly. After hearing that Apple Bloom just sighed, and stared at her brother as Applejack walked up to him. I told ya to keep watch over the oven, and not get distracted. Applejack said before turning to Apple Bloom. Apple Bloom sugar, why don't ya go in the living room, and just wait for a bit. Apple Bloom nodded, and walked out of the kitchen. She was just about to sit down on the couch, when she heard frantic knocking at the door. "Apple Bloom can you get that"? Applejack asked from the kitchen. Apple Bloom got up, walked over to the door, and opened it. Standing in the doorway was Rarity, Fluttershy, Sweetie Belle, and two stalions she's never seen before. "Oh hello Rarity, Sweetie Belle, and Fluttershy." She greeted. "What brings you here, and who are those two stalions with you?" She then asked. Rarity was the first to speak. "Apple Bloom darling are you alright we all heard a loud bang come from here". Rarity stated Apple Bloom looked at her confused before replying. "Yeah everypony's fine." "Then what was that bang"? asked Fluttershy. "Oh that was Big Mac. He burnt breakfest." Apple Bloom replied. "Oh, okay". Fluttershy replied. Apple Bloom nodded. "Right, and now um. You're friends"? She asked pointing to the Unicorn and Pegagus Stalion with them. "Oh. Bertholdt, Bertholdt Hoover". the Pegasus stated. "And I'm Reiner Braun". The unicorn replied. Apple Bloom smiled at the two of them. "It's nice to meet you two". she smiled. "So everypony's okay"? asked Rarity. Apple Bloom nodded. "Other then burnt pancakes, I'd say we're all good." Rarity sighed in relief after hearing that everything was okay. "Well that's good, sorry to bother, will just be going now". "Oh no, please come in". Apple Bloom stated. "Um I don't know about that, I mean you all seem pretty busy". Fluttershy replied. "Don't worry it's alright". Apple Bloom insisted. "Hold on let me get Applejack". Apple Bloom stated as she walked back into the kitchen. "Applejack, we have guest". Apple Bloom told her sister. Appejack turned around. "Really, who is it"? She asked. "Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Fluttershy, and two other stalions". Apple Bloom replied. This earned Applejack's curiosty. "Two new stalions you say"? Apple Bloom nodded in response. "Well I'll be." Hey why don't you invite them inside, and I'll fix up a proper breakfest". Applejack told Apple Bloom while gestering to Big Mac who chuckled nervously. Later, All of them we're sitting in the living room eating proper pancakes that Applejack had whipped up. "So, Mr. Braun. and Mr. Hoover, It's very nice to meet the both of you, Ya'll seem like very fine gentelmen". Applejack stated. "Thank you". Reiner replied. "So anyways, how did you meet my friends"? Applejack asked Fluttershy spoke up to answer that question. "You see, I met Reiner and Bertholdt, when I was watering my garden, they came stumbling out of the Everfree Forest, and told me that Reiner was attacked by a manticore" The two farmers looked at Reiner in shock "Well Damn" Applejack replied "Oh no! Are ya alright?" Asked Apple Bloom "Don't Worry" I'm fine Reiner replied "Oh well that's good." Apple Bloom replied. "Well, I'd say". Applejack was about to say something when there was more frantic knocking on the door. "Now who could that be"? Applejack asked as she went up to the door and opened it". Outside stood a pegagus with a rainbow colored mane. "Rainbow Dash? What are you doing here"? Applejack asked the pegagus. "The pegagus named Rainbow Dash walked into the house. "Is everything alright? I heard an explosion". she asked worriedly. Applejack smiled. "Oh don't worry, everything's fine. Big Mac just messed up dinner". Applejack explain. "Oh. Is that it"? asked Rainbow Dash. Applejack nodded. "Eeyup. Come on in, You ain't the only one who's shown up today". she stated as she led Rainbow Dash inside. Once inside, Rainbow Dash noticed the others in the living room. "Oh, hey Rarity, Fluttershy, Sweetie Belle". she greeted the other three ponies. The three of them greeted Rainbow Dash with a smile, and Rainbow Dash smiled back. Then she noticed Bertholdt and Reiner. "Oh, I see you girls made some new friends". Rainbow Dash stated. Everyone looked at Reiner, and Bertholdt, and smiled. Currently Publicly Available Information Sweet Apple Acres. A farm located in Ponyville, that grows delicous Apples. It is owned and run by Granny Smith, and her three grandchildren, Big Macintosh, Applejack, and Apple Bloom. It took about 10 minitues to explain the whole situation to Rainbow Dash. "Well Damn". She muttered. "That's what I said". Applejack replied, Rainbow Dash turned to face the two stalions. "Well it's very nice to meet the both of you". She stated. "Likewise". Reiner replied. Applejack smiled "Well, now that we've all been "EVERYPONY"!!!!! Applejack was interuppted by a loud an enerjectic voice. "Oh no". Rainbow Dash muttered Within seconds, The door of the apple family house flew open, and the eight ponies we're knocked down by another pink pony with a poofy mane. "WHAT HAPPEND IS EVERYPONY OK I HEARED AN EXPLOSION!" "Pinkie Pie darling, we're all fine, now would you please get off of us". Rarity responeded "Oh heh heh sorry about that, I just heared that explosion and." It was then she noticed Reiner and Bertholdt (GASP) She rushed over to them "HI I'M PINKIE PIE WHO ARE YOU ARE YOU KNEW HERE BECAUSE I'VE NEVER SEEN YOU SO THEREFORE YOU MUST BE NEW" the pink pony exclamied. "Um yes, we are new" Reiner confirmed, "I'm Reiner, and this is Bertholdt". "Well you two need to be welcomed", Pinkie Pie stated, She then pulled out a small wagaon looking think with weired looking horns out of it, seemingly out of nowhere. The thing then started playing music and Pinkie started to sing Welcome Welcone Welcome! A fine welcome to you! Welcome Welcome Welcome! I say how do you do! Welcome Welcome Welcome! I said Hip Hip Hooray! Welcome Welcome Welcome! To Ponyville Today! She then stoped singing "Wait for it", The wagon then shot out a small blast of Coffeti at Bertholdt, and Reiner "Uh, thanks for that, that was um pretty entertaing", Reiner responed "So, how did you guys meet my friends"? asked Pinkie Pie. Fluttershy then explained to Pinkie Pie, the whole story. "Woah" Stated Pinkie Pie. "Anyways, thank ya'll again for coming to check on us". "Yeah, you don't have to repay us in anyway.It's what we do, because Bertholdt, and I, are Warriors" Reiner responed "What do you mean Warriors"? asked Sweetie Belle Reiner smiled. "It's just something we called ourselves when we we're around you age, and we never stopped "Oh ok. Sweetie Belle repiled "Yeah that's cool," Replied Apple Bloom. "Anyways, You know what time it is", asked Pinkie Pie "Um, no" Bertholdt Replied "IT'S TIME FOR YOU'RE WELCOME PARTY!" Pinkie Shouted, as she pulled out her Party canyon, and pulled the trigger Preview As the warriors get to know everypony, Reiner finds himself wondering about their situation, and if there is a way for him and Bertholdt to return home. Next Episode. The Party. Author's Note Characters in Order of Apperance Apple Bloom Big Macintosh Applejack Rarity Fluttershy Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Sweetie Belle Rainbow Dash Pinkie Pie Episode 5: The Party: Friendship is Magic arc Part 5Reiner and Bertholdt opened their eyes to see themselves in what appered to be a bakery surround by serveal other ponies , and a big banner that said WELCOME TO PONYVILE BERTHOLDT AND REINER!. To say the two of them we're shocked would be the understatment of the century. Bertholdt's jaw almost hit the floor when he saw what was in front of them "Wh wh wh what how when why who where" Reiner just looked around in shock, "All this for two complete strangers"? "Of course!" Pinkie replied. "You're are new friends now, so we have to throw a party for you, it's mandtory" Bertholdt looked at her confused "Mandtory"? "Of course, whenever a new pony is welcomed to ponyville we need to throw them a welcome party to show we care". Pinkie explained Pinkie begins to sing When I was young, I never knew happiness I lived on a farm, with those dammed rocks. My family was unhappy, I wanted to help, so one day I decied to show them a great time. SO I GATHER UP THE BALLONS, BAKED A DELICOUS CAKE, INVITED THEM INTO ARE BARN AND WE DANCED THE NIGHT AWAY! EVERPONY HAD A SMILE ON THEIR FACE, and that's how I became a party pony. Everypony in the room clapped they're hooves after Pinkie's song. Reiner, walked up to the front counter and rang the bell, A female earth pony walked up to him Hello there, I'm Mrs. Cake, what can I get for you. "Coffee", please Reiner Repiled Just Coffee? asked Mrs. Cake "Yes please" Reiner Confirmed "Alright coming right up" As she left to prepare his drink, Reiner began to ponder what was happening "How did Bertholdt and I get here, and more importantly, why is this town inhabited by colorful talking poines? Was Eren somehow able to unlock a new abilty of the Founding Titan, and project an image of us, For all we know Bertholdt and I could be tyed up in a chamber underground by the scouts". Reiner was still thinking about this when he heard a voice snap him out of his thoughts. "Mr. Braun" Reiner looked down, and saw Sweetie Belle looking up at him confused. "Are you ok"? "Yeah of course, why are you asking". "Because, well, you we're kind of making a scary face". "Oh, heh sorry about that, I was just uh thinking about how impressive it is how Pinkie Pie was able to throw this party so fast for Bertholdt and I". "Oh yes Pinkie Pie is the best party planner in all of equestria!" Sweetie Belle stated "Heh that's beliveable". Reiner said to himself "Well ok then, sorry for bothering you". Sweetie Belle apologized. "Hey don't worry." about Reiner repiled Sweetie Belle left Reiner and went back to Rarity, and two older ponies who Reiner assumed we're they're parents. Reiner gave a small smile just as Mrs. Cake returned with his Coffee. "Here you are sir" "Thank you" Reiner stood up and went to find Bertholdt, after looking around for around 5 mintues he found him talking to Fluttershy. "Hey what are you to taking about" "Oh hey Reiner, Fluttershy was just telling me about how she wants to one day open up an animal sanctuary". "And Bertholdt was talking about how you two have been friends since childhood". "Oh, he did, did he" "Yeah" Fluttershy said. "Wait here I'll get us some cupcakes". Fluttershy left to go up to the counter. Reiner looked at Bertholdt, "Reiner, I know what you're going to ask, and No I did not tell her about our Titan abilties or anyhting like that". "Ok as long as you didn't, we need to keep are abilties a secret for as long as we can". As the finshed Fluttershy came trotting back up to them, Reiner noticed Bertholdt was blushing as Fluttershy was coming up. "Really Bertholdt, I thought you had feelings for Annie?" Reiner whispered to the Colossal Titan. "Wh wh what are you taking about" Bertholdt asked embarrsed. "Dude come on, yes she's cute but she's still a horse, if anyone's going to date a horse, It's going to be Jean". "Oh Shut Up" Bertholdt retorted. Currently Publicly Available Information Scream .Among those with the Power of the Titans some have a special 'Scream.' While the Female Titan can use a 'Scream' to control Pure Titans, the Founding Titan has a similar ability and is believed to possess the power to alter human memories as well. Fluttershy returned with three chocloated cupcakes for the them, "Hey guys what were you talking about" Reiner smirked. "Oh nothing, Bertholdt was just telling about. He couldn't finsh before Bertholdt intterupted him "About how great this party is". Reiner looked at Bertholdt in annoyance. "Right" Fluttershy smiled at the two of them "Yeah Pinkie Pie is a great party planner. She throws one for everypony who comes to Ponyville". "So we've heared". Reiner said Fluttershy looked at the two stallions she had only receantly met, she was usually extremaly shy around ponies, but somehow Reiner and Bertholdt made her feel safe, "You guys are really the first ponies I've really gotten close to since Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie". Fluttershy said "Really?" Bertholdt asked (Eye Water Plays) Yeah, you may not know this but I'm actually really shy, my friends most of my friends are the animals that live in my cottage. Reiner looked at Fluttershy who had tears in her eyes. "Fluttershy, are you okay" "Yeah I'm just thinking about how hard it is to be alone." I'm weak and frail, but you two are brave and strong, I'm mean the way you saved Apple Bloom, Bertholdt, you and Reiner are both really brave, I bet you've done alot of good" Bertholdt and Reiner looked at each other as both of them remembered back to that day "Reiner?! What are you doing?" Marco asked in terror "YOU DAMN TRAITORS"! Screamed Eren Yeager "Reiner! Bertholdt"! Fluttershy snapped the two of them out of their thoughts. "Are you to okay" the pegasus asked. Reiner stared at her, "Uh yeah! We're fine, Right Bertholdt"? "Uh, right." Fluttershy looked at the two unsure of how to respone "Oh, okay". "Hey, Bertholdt and I are going to head out, okay Fluttershy"? "Yeah, sure". Fluttershy responded With that Reiner and Bertholdt left sugar cube corner, just as Applejack, and Apple Bloom came up to Fluttershy. "Uh, where are thoes two going", asked Applejack "I don't know, they said they had something to do." Fluttershy responded "Well It's none of our bussniess really," said Apple Bloom "Yeah you're right Apple Bloom I just hope that whatever it is they'll ask for our help", Applejack replied. Preview Two weeks go by, two weeks in this new world, and Reiner and Bertholdt's journey has just begun Next Episode. The Mare in The Moon Part 1. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Bertholdt Hoover/Colossal Titan Pinkie Pie Mrs. Cake Eren Yeager (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Dina Fritz (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Connie Springer (Flashback) Sweetie Belle Rainbow Dash DJ Pon-3 Octavia Melody Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Fluttershy Marco Bodt (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Historia Reiss (Flashback) Ymir/Jaw Titan (Flashback) Erwin Smith (Flashback) Applejack Apple Bloom Episode 6: The Mare in The Moon Part 1: Friendship is Magic arc Part 6Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria. there were two regal sisters who ruled together and created harmony for all the land. To do this, the eldest used her unicorn powers to raise the sun at dawn; the younger brought out the moon to begin the night. Thus, the two sisters maintained balance for their kingdom and their subjects, all the different types of ponies. But as time went on, the younger sister became resentful. The ponies relished and played in the day her elder sister brought forth, but shunned and slept through her beautiful night. One fateful day, the younger unicorn refused to lower the moon to make way for the dawn. The elder sister tried to reason with her, but the bitterness in the young one's heart had transformed her into a wicked mare of darkness: Nightmare Moon. She vowed that she would shroud the land in eternal night. Reluctantly, the elder sister harnessed the most powerful magic known to ponydom: the Elements of Harmony. Using the magic of the Elements of Harmony, she defeated her younger sister, and banished her permanently in the moon. The elder sister took on responsibility for both... sun and moon. A young purple unicorn sat under a tree reading a book about the legend of nightmare moon. "and harmony has been maintained in Equestria for generations since". Hmmm, elementes of harmony. I know I've heared of those before... But where? Twilight Sparkle ran back to her house, as she was crossing over a bridge she trotted by three of her old classmates from Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. A school in which Twilight was the top student "There you are, Twilight! Moon Dancer is having a little get-together in the west castle courtyard. You wanna come"? "Oh sorry girls...... I've got a lot of studying to catch up on". The three unicorns looked at her in dissapointment before trotting off "Does that pony do anything except study? I think she's more interested in books than friends". Twilight kept running while thinking to herself "I know I've heard of the Elements of Harmony". Twilight ran up to her room and burst open the door. "Spike"! "Spi-ike"! "Spike"? Spike, a baby dragon groaned as he got up after being knocked out by the Twilight bursting through the door. "There you are. Quick, find me that old copy of Predictions and Prophecies" Twilight noticed a small gift box in Spikes claws that had now been destroyed. "What's that for" Spike looked down and sighed "Well it was a gift for Moon Dancer but...." Twilight was not amused by Spike's actions with this whole party thing. "Oh Spike you know we don't have time for that sort of thing." Spike looked at Twilight in shock, he never understood why she was always so focused on Studying. "But we're on a break" Twilight however wasn't listening as she was to busy levitating books in order to find the one she was looking for "No, no, no... no, no, no"! She became increbibley frustrated at not being able to find the book. "Spike"! "It's over here!" Spike called after having found it on another shelf. Twilight praictly dragged Spike over to her and took the book. "Ah Elements, Elements E, E, E... Aha! Elements of Harmony, see: Mare in the Moon? Spike looke up in confusion as to what Twilight referanced. "Mare in the moon? But that's just an old ponies tale" Again Twilight wasn't listening to what Spike had to say, as she was too focused on reading the Mare in the Moon entry in the book. "Mare, mare... aha! The Mare in the Moon, myth from olden pony times. A powerful pony who wanted to rule Equestria, defeated by the Elements of Harmony and imprisoned in the moon. Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about nighttime eternal! Spike! Do you know what this means"? "No- WHOA" Spike fell off of the ladder he was on, fourtently Twilight manged to catch him before he hit the ground. "Take a note please, to the Princess" "Okie Dokie." Twilight knew that her teacher and mentor Princess Celestia needed to know about what she discoverd. she began resiting the things she wanted Spike to write in the letter (進撃pf20130218巨人 plays) "My dearest teacher, my continuing studies of pony magic have led me to discover that we are on the precipice of disaster! Before Twilight could contiue however Spike interuptted her because he was having trobule spelling the word she had just said to him. "Hold on. Preci... preci..." Twilight decieded to use a different word insted. "Threshold" Spike however was still confused. "Threh..... Thinking of what else to use Twilight came up with the easiest word she could think of. "Uh, brink? that something really bad is about to happen! For you see, the mythical Mare in the Moon is in fact Nightmare Moon, and she's about to return to Equestria, and bring with her eternal night! Something must be done to make sure this terrible prophecy does not come true. I await your quick response. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle." Spike just finshed writing down Twilight's name "Twi... light Spar... kle. Got it"! Twilight's eyes lit up in delight. "Great! Send it"! Spike gave her a confused look. "Now?" "Of course!" Twilight replied. Spike however was still hesitating to send the letter to the princess. "Uh, I dunno, Twilight, Princess Celestia's a little busy getting ready for the Summer Sun Celebration. And it's like, the day after tomorrow". However that only gave Twilight more of a reason to send the letter right away "That's just it, Spike. The day after tomorrow is the thousandth year of the Summer Sun Celebration! It's imperative that the Princess is told right away"! Again Spike was confused by the word Twilight had said "Impera... impera. "Important"! Twilight exclamied. Twilight rushed foward causing Spike to fall off her back "Whoa! Okay, okay"! Spike then used his fire breath to send the letter to Celestia. "There it's on its way. But I wouldn't hold your breath"... Twilight however was unfazed by Spike's concern "Oh, I'm not worried, Spike. The Princess trusts me completely. In all the years she's been my mentor she's never once doubted me." Almost imedidedtly Spike belched up a response letter from the princess Spike cleared his throat and began to read the letter "My deareast most faithful student Twilight, You know that I value your diligence and that I trust you completely". Twilight smiled in deilght as Spike contiued reading but you simply must stop reading those dusty old books! This caused Twilight to gasp in shock Twilight and Spike were on a carage heading towards the town of Ponyvile as Spike contiued to read what Celestia had tasked for Twilight. "My dear Twilight, there is more to a young pony's life than studying, so I'm sending you to supervise the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration in this year's location: Ponyville. And, I have an even more essential task for you to complete: make some friends"! That last statment made Twilight groan in disgust. Spike however tried to cheer her up. "Look on the bright side, Twilight. The Princess arranged for you to stay in a library. Doesn't that make you happy"? That did cheer Twilight up. "Yes, yes it does. You know why? Because I'm right! I'll check on the preparations as fast as I can, then get to the library to find some proof of Nightmare Moon's return. " "And then will you make friends?" Spike asked. Twilight however had no intentions on doing so and she made sure to make that clear to her dragon assisant. " She said to check on preparations. I am her student, and I'll do my royal duty, but the fate of Equestria does not rest on me making friends. " The carage landed in the center of town as Twilight and Spike got off "Thank you sirs". Spike looked around the town eager to meet the ponies of the town. he then noticed Pinke Pie walking up to them, 'Maybe the ponies in Ponyville have interesting things to talk about. Come on, Twilight, just try"! Twilight relecutantly agreed to try and talk to the pink earth pony "Um.........Hello" Pinkie Pie however only gasped and ran off leaving both Twilight and Spike very confused. "Well, that was interesting alright." Spike sighed in defeat The two of them made their way to their first stop, Sweet Apple Acres, as Spike was reading off the checklist Celestia gave them. "Summer Sun Celebration official overseer's checklist. Number one, banquet preparations: Sweet Apple Acres. " "Yee Haw"! Twilight and Spike saw Applejack running up to a tree and bucking it with her back hooves. Twilight sighed. "Let's get this over with" She walked up to the earth pony. " Good afternoon. My name is Twilight Sparkle—" Applejack took Twilight's hoove and began to shake it extremaly fast. " Well, howdy-doo, Miss Twilight, a pleasure makin' your acquaintance. I'm Applejack. We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like makin' new friends! " "Friends? Well actually". Twilight began only for Applejack to interupt her "So, what can I do you for"? Spike snickered at the conversation. Twilght cleared her throat and explained to Applejack the reason she was there "Well, I am in fact here to supervise preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. And you're in charge of the food? " "We sure as surgar are! Would you care for a sample? Applejack asked. "As long as it doesn't take to long." Twilight responed. Applejack then ran over to a tringale and began to ring it "Soup's on Every Pony"! Almost immeideltly Twilight and Spike we're surronded by a bunch over other ponies "Now, why don't I introduce y'all to the Apple family"? "Thanks, but I really need to hurry" Twilight began only to again be intterupted by Applejack. "This here's Apple Fritter. Apple Bumpkin. Red Gala. Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp... Big McIntosh, Apple Bloom and Granny Smith. Up'n'attem, Granny Smith, we got guests". The elderly earth pony woke up and walked up to the table. "Wha..? Soup's on? I'm up, here I come, ahm comin"'... Applejack smiled at Twilight and Spike. "Why'd I'd say you're already part of the family." That statment caused Twilight to spit out the food she was basicaly force fed "Okay, well, I can see the food situation is handled, so we'll be on our way" "Aren't you gonna stay for brunch"? Apple Bloom asked with pleading eyes "Oh god she's adorable"! Both Twilight and Spike thought in their heads. Twilight felt bad for the little filly, but she needed to complete her task, however Twilight then noticed something about Apple Bloom. "You, have Amber Eyes". Apple Bloom gave Twilight a confused look, of course she knew her eyes were amber, but that really didn't seem to matter to her, or anyone. "What do you mean"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Oh uh, nothing Twilight replied. She continued to stare at Apple Bloom for a bit. "This filly. She's so pretty". Twilight thought to herself before finally speaking again. "Alright, will stay". Apple Bloom beamed with pure delight, but Twilight's statment lingered in the back of her head. After her meeting with the Apple Family Twilight and Spike we're now walking in town to check on the weather. Spike read what the list said "Food's all taken care of, next is weather". Twilight groaned in pain after eating the food. "Ugh... I ate too much pie"... Spike however was too busy looking in the sky to listen to Twilight. "Hmm, there's supposed to be a Pegasus pony named Rainbow Dash clearing the clouds". Twilight looked up and saw that there we're still plenty of clouds up in the sky. "Well, she's not doing a very good job, is she"? As if on cue Rainbow Dash swooped by knocking Twilight into a mud puddle. "Uh, 'scuse me"? the pegasus replied. Twilight sighed Rainbow Dash laughed "Lemme help you". She went and grabbed a cloud, she then jumped on it causing it to rain on Twilight. Dash laughed again " Oops, I guess I overdid it. Um, uh, how about this?" Rainbow Dash spun around Twilight causing her mane to become rather poofy. "My very own patented Rain-Blow Dry! No no. Don't thank me. You're quite welcome". Both Rainbow Dash and Spike then bursted out laughing at Twilight's sitiouation, which Twilight didn't find funny one bit. "Let me guess. You're Rainbow Dash". " The one and only. Why, you heard of me"? asked the cyan colored pony. "I heard you were supposed to be keeping the sky clear. [sigh] I'm Twilight Sparkle, and the Princess sent me to check on the weather. " Rainbow Dash however ignored the unicorn. "Yeah, yeah, that'll be a snap. I'll do it in a jiffy. Just as soon as I'm done practicing. " Twilight become confused. "Practicing for what"? "The Wonderbolts! They're gonna perform at the Celebration tomorrow, and I'm gonna show 'em my stuff"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed exciedlty. "The" Wonderbolts'? Twilght asked. "Yep"! Rainbow Dash replied. The most talented flyers in all of Equestria? "That's them". Twilight scoffed. "Pfft! Please. They'd never accept a Pegasus who can't even keep the sky clear for one measly day". That statment caused Rainbow Dash to become a little offened. "Hey, I could clear this sky in ten seconds flat". Twilight smirked. "Prove it" Rainbow Dash shot up and began to kick away all the clouds in the sky. "Loop-de-loop around, and wham! What'd I say? Ten. Seconds. Flat. I'd never Ponyville hanging." Twilight was in shock which ammused Rainbow Dash. " You should see the look on your face. Ha! You're a laugh, Twilight Sparkle. I can't wait to hang out some more." "Wow, she's amazing" Spike Laughed. Twilight groaned again. Spike tried to cheer up by complemting her messed up hair. "Wait! It's kinda pretty once you get used to it"! Twilight and Spike headed into the Carousel Boitquie to check on the decarations for the celebration. "Decorations. Beautiful"... Twilight smiled in aggreement. "Yes, the décor is coming along nicely. This ought'a be quick. I'll be at the library in no time. Beautiful indeed". Spike however revealed that it wasn't the decorations he was talking about, it was the unicorn Rarity. "Not the décor, her"! Rarity was trying to decied on what draped to use for the party. "No, no, no, oh! Goodness no". Spike began to get nervous as he began to clear himself off. "How are my spines? Are they straight"? Twilight walked up again began to talk to the white unicorn. "Good afternoon— " Rarity however stopped Twilight before she could go any further "Just a moment, please! I'm 'in the zone', as it were. Oh, yes! Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why, Rarity, you are a talent. Now, um, how can I help yo"— Rarity gasped at the sight of Twilight's mane. "Oh my stars, darling! Whatever happened to your coiffure"?! Twilight looked confused before realizng what Rarity was talking about. "Oh, you mean my mane? Well, it's a long story. I'm just here to check on the decorations, and then I'll be out of your hair"! Rarity however was not satisfiyed with that ansewer. "Out of my hair? What about your hair?! Rarity began to forcibly drag Twilight into the back room. "Wait! Where are we going?! Help"! Inside the back room Rarity was having Twilight try on serveal dresses. "No, no, uh-uh. Too green. Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. Too frilly. Too... shiny. Now go on, my dear. You were telling me where you're from". Twilight began to reply as the strap on her back was being stretched out, causing her a great deal of pain. " I've... been sent... from Canterlot... to—" Upon hearing Canterlot, Rarity gasped in delight. Canterlot?! Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication! I have always dreamed of living there! I can't wait to hear all about it! We are gonna be the best of friends, you and I... Emeralds?! What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies! Rarity ran off and Twilight took the opportunity to escape. "Quick! Before she decides to dye my coat a new color! " Spike sighed as they left. Outside Spike was talking about Rarity. "Wasn't she wonderful"? "Focus, Casanova. What's next on the list"? Twilight asked. Spike checked. "Lights"! he replied. The two of them walked up to a house. "The two stalions who are suppose to be in charge of the lights live here." Spike explained. Twilight sighed "Ok, let's get this over with." "What do you mean there not ready?! The Celebrations tonight! Bertholdt! Reiner! Reiner took a deep breath and spoke to Twilight. I'm sorry kid, but like I said, they're not ready yet. I promise you though we'll have them before the celebration. Reiner's words made Twilight feel a little better. Okay then. Come on Spike let's go. As they started to get up however, Bertholdt spoke up. "Hold on, you two are oringnaly from Canterlot right? "Yeah. that's right." Spike replied. "It must be hard, moving to a new town where you know next to know one, belive me I know what that feelings like." "Oh, where were you two from before moving here to ponyville?" Spike asked "Oh Reiner and I? We come from a small village up in the moutains in the far north." Twilight became confused. "Why did you leave your old home"? she asked. "It happend around dawn. The animals started to become anxious, and I kept hearing this strange noise. I soon realized it was the sound of Death getting closer and closer. I opened my window". A flashback shows Bertholdt staring at a hydra out his window. Spike gulped as Bertholdt contiued. "I. don't really remember much of what happened afterwards, I think everypony just panicked." Reiner put his hoof on Bertholdt's shoulder. "Hey, why are you going on about this?" "Sorry, what I'm trying to say, is that if you think about it, the four of us are pretty similar." Bertholdt Replied. "Hey." Said Reiner. "Sorry. Anyways come on, let's go get those lights." "Really"! Twilight exlcaimed. "Sure". Bertholdt smiled Reiner and Bertholdt took Twilight and Spike into a patch of woods behind their house. It was dark so they had to use lanterns in order to see where they we're going. "I've been told that ponyville is a place where different types of ponies go to make friends. I moved here looking for just that, friendship. The ponies in my old village would make fun of me for wanting to care about something like friendship" Bertholdt explained. Spike felt sorry for the pegasus and tried to cheer him up. "There's nothing wrong with wanting friendship Bertholdt, it's something every pony wants." "Is it? I'm going to return to the hometown we lost, that's all I care about now. I will do it, no matter what" Reiner responed. Bertholdt then looked back at Twilight. "What about you? Why did you move here?" "Well I'm mainly here to check on things for the summer sun celebration, but......." (Heartbeat Plays) Twilight looked down, hesitating to answer, but she decied she had too. "I belive that the mare in the moon is the evil Nightmare Moon, and tommorow she'll escape from the moon and plunge Equestria into eternal night, So I've been studying the Elements of Harmony as they are the only things that could stop her." Reiner and Bertholdt looked back at Twilight. Reiner then spoke up "So you think that tommorow Nightmare Moon will return right?" "Yeah, and if she does Equestria is doomed!" Twilight responed. The four of them stopped on the edge of a ledge, and Twilight looked out at the sight before her. It was the most beautiful thing she ever saw. Reiner then spoke again. "I doubt the legend is true, but if it is, and if Nightmare Moon does return, you'll find away to stop her. I know you will, I can see it in you. Twilight Sparkle, and Spike was it"? Twilight smiled at the unicorn stalion. "Yes. Thank you. Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover right?" Currently Publicly Available Information Summer Sun Celebration. A special holiday celebrated in Equestria to comenrate the defeat of Nightmare Moon. It is held in ponyville in the year 850, roughly two months after the Colossal Titan breached the gates of Trost District. Twilight and Spike were walking in the park. Twilight had a small smile on her face, unlike the other ponies she's met so far she was plesently suprised by how calm Reiner and Bertholdt were. she looke at Spike who had the list in his claws. "Ok Spike, what's last"? Spike looked at the list. "Music." The two of them then heared some birds singing, and saw Fluttershy conducting a bird chior for the celebration. She soon however stopped as a blujay was singing off key "Oh my. Um, stop please, everyone, umm. Excuse me, sir? I mean no offense, but your rhythm is just a teeny-tiny bit off. Now, follow me, please. A-one, a-two, a-one two three- " "Hello!" Twilight called out. which caused Fluttershy to yelp in suprise, and the birds to fly away "Oh my, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to frighten your birds. I'm just here to check up on the music and it's sounding beautiful. I'm Twilight Sparkle. What's your name?" Fluttershy tried to introduce herself, but was too shy to. "Um... I'm Fluttershy". " I'm sorry, what was that?" "Um... My name is Fluttershy". "Didn't quite catch that". The birds soon returned and Twilight decieded it was time for her to get going. "Well, um, it looks like your birds are back, so I guess everything's in order. Keep up the good work!" Twilight went up to Spike who appeared from behind a bush. "Oookay. Well, that was easy". Fluttershy gasped in delight when she saw Spike however. "A baby dragon"! Fluttershy knocked Twilight out of the way to get a closer look at Spike. " Oh, I've never seen a baby dragon before. He's sooo cute!" Spike smiled in amusemnt. "Well, well, well...!" "Oh my, he talks. I didn't know dragons could talk. That's just so incredibly wonderful I, I just don't even know what to say!" Twilight then lifted Spike on to her back and began to walk away. "Well, in that case we'd better be going". Fluttershy however followed them. "Wait, wait! What's his name"? "I'm Spike." "Hi Spike. I'm Fluttershy. Wow, a talking dragon! And what do dragons talk about"? "Well, what do you wanna know"? he asked "Absolutely everything". This caused Twilight to once again groan in frustration " Well... I started out as a cute little purple and green egg..." The three of them kept on walking as Spike contiued telling his life story to Fluttershy. " ...and that's the story of my whole entire life! Well, up until today. Do you wanna hear about today"? "Oh, yes, please"! Fluttershy exclamied It was then Twilight quickly stopped infront of the door of the libriay she and Spike were stating at. "Gyah"! Spike yelped "I am so sorry, how did we get here so fast? This is where I'm staying while in Ponyville and my poor baby dragon needs his sleep". Spike become offened by that statment. " No I don't— whoa!" Twilight knocked Spike off of her back. "Aww, wook at dat, he's so sweepy he can't even keep his widdle bawance"! Fluttershy quickly picked up Spike. "Poor thing, you simply must get into bed"... She tried to go into the libiray only for Twilight to pull her back out. "Yes, yes, we'll get right on that. Well, g'night!" She then slammed the door in Fluttershy's face. Spike looked at Twilight dissaprovingly. "Huh. Rude much"? "Sorry, Spike, but I have to convince the Princess that Nightmare Moon is coming, and we're running out of time! I just need to be alone so I can study without a bunch of crazy ponies trying to make friends all the time. Now, where's the light"? As if on cue, the light flicked on and Twilight and Spike found themselves surroned by a bunch of random ponies. Pinkie Pie then hoped infront of Twilight's face. "Surprise! Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Huh huh huh"? "Very suprised! Libraries are supposed to be quiet". said Twilight Pinkie Pie laughed at Twilight's statment. "Well, that's silly! What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet? I mean, duh, bo-ring! Y'see, I saw you when you first got here, remember? You were all "hello" and I was all [deep gasp], remember? Y'see I've never saw you before and if I've never saw you before that means you're new, 'cause I know everypony, and I mean everypony in Ponyville"! As Pinkie Pie said this, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Fluttershy all appeared next to her. Twilight groaned again and walked over to grab what she assumed was punch as Pinkie Pie contiued talking "And if you're new, that meant you haven't met anyone yet, and if you haven't met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don't have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me so sad, then I had an idea, and that's why I went [deep gasp]! I must throw a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends! " Twilight then realised she had drank hot sauce and not punch, Applejack looked at her in concern. "Are you all right, sugarcube"? Twilight ran upstairs with tears in her eyes "Aww, she's so happy she's crying"! Spike looked at the lable of what Twilight drank. "Hot sauce". Pinkie Pie became confused "Ooh... What? It's good"! Reiner however felt worried for Twilight's well being, and decieded to check on her. In her room Twilight had her face burried in her pillow when she heared a knock an the door. "Come in" she said Reiner stepped in to the room. "Hey, are you okay"? No, I'm not. All the ponies in this town are crazy! Twilight gasped at what she just said. "Im so sorry I didn't mean" "It's ok." Reiner replied Twilight sighed. "Do you know what time it is"? "It's the eve of the Summer Sun Celebration. Everypony has to stay up, or they'll miss the Princess raise the sun. I see you wanna be alone, so I'll head back downstairs'. Reiner left and Twilight groaned again. "Ugh, here I thought I'd have time to learn about the Elements of Harmony but, silly me, all this ridiculous friend-making has kept me from it"! Twilight thought back to what she read in the book. Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about everlasting night." She looked up at the moon. "I hope the Princess was right... I hope it really is just an old pony tale"... The door to her bedroom then opend again, this time it was Spike who came in. "C'mon, Twilight, it's time to watch the sunrise"! Outside Pinkie Pie was standing next to Twilight chattering away. "Isn't this exciting? Are you excited, 'cause I'm excited, I've never been so excited— well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went [deep gasp] but I mean really, who can top that?" The Mayor of ponyvile then came up on the balcony where she was to introduce Princess Celestia. "Fillies and gentlecolts, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration"! The crowd began cheering as the Mayor continued. "In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria"... Fluttershy looked at her birds. "Ready"? The Mayor spoke again. "...Princess Celestia"! However the princess wasn't there. "Huh"? exclaimed Rarity in confusion The crowd began to chatter in confusion "This can't be good" stated Twilight The Mayor tried to keep every pony calm. "Remain calm, everypony, there must be a reasonable explanation"! Pinkie Pie however was oblivious to what was happening. "Ooh, ooh, I love guessing games! Is she hiding?" "She's gone" Rarity exclaimed. The crowed gasped in shock, but Pinkie Pie Still Didn't understand what was going. "Ooh, she's good" Pinkie then gasped in shock when a dark colored alicorn suddendly appeared on the balcony, and was clear that she was not Princess Celestia. Twilght shrunk down in fear. "Oh no... Nightmare Moon"! Spike fanited. "So that's her" Reiner thought. Nighmare Moon chuckled in delight as she looked down at the cowering ponies. "Oh, my beloved subjects. It's been so long since I've seen your precious little sun-loving faces." Rainbow Dash became enraged. "What did you do with our Princess"?! She tried to rush at her only for Applejack to stop her. "Whoa there, Nelly"... Nightmare Moon chuckled at Rainbow Dash. "Why, am I not royal enough for you? Don't you know who I am"? "Ooh, ooh, more guessing games! Um, Hokey Smokes! How about... Queen Meanie! No! Black Snooty, Black Snooty"— Bertholdt covered Pinkie Pie's mouth with his hoof to get her to shut up. Nightmare became annoyed and began asking the crowd questions "Does my crown no longer count now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years? Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs"? Twilight Spoke up. "I did". "So did I"! stated Reiner. "And me"! Bertholdt repiled. You three? well then tell these others who I am. Twilight spoke again. "You're the Mare in the Moon – Nightmare Moon! The crowed gasped in shock. "Well well well, three ponies who remembers me. Then you also know why I'm here". Twilight began to say why Nightmare Moon was there. "You're here to... to"... Twilight however was unable to find the words she wanted to say. Fortunately Reiner was abel to finish what Twilight was trying to say. "You're here to plunge all of Equestria into etenral Night"! He exclaimed. Nightmare Moon smiled in delight at the holder of the Armored Titan. "Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever! Preview Twilight's fears had come true, and now she and the others must venture into the Everfree Forest in order to find the Elements of Harmony and stop Nightmare Moon. Next Episode. The Mare in The Moon Part 2. Author's Note Characters In Order of Appearance Princess Celestia (Storybook) Princess Luna/Nightmare Moon Twilight Sparkle Twinkleshine Minnuete Lemon Hearts Lyra Heartstrings Spike Sweetie Drops Golden Harvest Cherry Berry Berry Punch Shoeshine Big Macintosh Pinkie Pie Applejack Apple Fritter Apple Bumpkin Red Gala Red Delicious Golden Delicious Caramel Apple Apple Strudel Apple Tart Baked Apples Apple Brioche Apple Cinnamon Crisp Apple Bloom Granny Smith Rainbow Dash Spitfire (Poster) Sorian (Poster) Rarity Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Fluttershy Mayor Mare Sweetie Belle Scootaloo Episode 7: The Mare in The Moon Part 2: Friendship is Magic arc Part 7(Previously on My Little Pony Friendship is Magic with Reiner and Bertholdt) "Elements of Harmony, see 'Mare in the Moon'"? "But that's just an old ponies' tale." "It's imperative that the princess is told right away". [burps] "I knew she would wanna take immediate action". "My dear Twilight, there is more to a young pony's life than studying. Make some friends!" [prolonged gasp] "You'll find a way to stop her, I know it. Twilight Sparkle was it?" "All the ponies in this town are crazy!" "I hope the Princess was right." "She's gone!" "Oh no. Nightmare Moon!" [evil laugh] (XLTT Plays) Nightmare Moon contiued to laugh like a mad horse as the Mayor stared at the dark Alicorn, her eyes filling with rage. "Seize her! Only she knows where the Princess is!" She ordered the royal guards The guards flew at Nightmare Moon, however she used her magic to stop them dead in their tracks. "Stand back, you foals"! She laughed again, as ponies kept on screaming. Rainbow Dash managed to kick herself out of Applejack's grip, Causing the Earth Pony to grunt. The pegaus flew at Nightmare, but the Alicorn disappered in a cloud of smoke. "Come back here!" Rainbow Dash flew into the sky and tried to catch her breath just as the realization of what Nightmare Moon had said began to sink in. "Shit. Nightime? Forever?" Dash looked down and noticed Twilight galloping back to her home, "Where's she going" Dash thought to herself Twilight burst back into to the libary and the first thing she did was put Spike to bed, despite his protest. "Uh... We gotta stop Nightmare!..." Twilight smiled as Spike gave into his tiredness and drifited into dreamland. "You've been up all night, Spike. You are a baby dragon after all." After putting Spike to sleep Twilight rushed back downstairs to the Libary and began to sort through all of the books on the shelves. "Elements, elements, elements... Ugh! How can I stop Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony?" The door bursted open and Reiner, and Bertholdt steped into the libary. "Twilight what are you doing?" Reiner asked Twilight looked at the Stailion "I'm trying to find a book about the Elements of Harmony." After Twilight said that Rainbow Dash flew into the libary, past Bertholdt and Reiner, and into Twilight's face where she began pestering Twilight for ansewers "And just what are the Elements of Harmony? And how did you know about Nightmare Moon, huh? Are you a spy? " Reiner stepped in front of Twilight as Applejack grabbed Rainbow Dash by the tail and pulled her back. Rainbow Dash tried to wriggle out of Applejack's grasp. "Lemme Go! She needs to answer for what's going on!" Twilight clung to Reiner's back, and the former human turned unicorn felt the young girl trembling as Rainbow Dash kept accusing her of being responisble for Nightmare Moon's return. "Dash calm down!" Reiner Yelled causing Twilight to flich. Applejack finally let go of Rainbow Dash after she had stopped struggling. "Reiner's right Dash, Ya'll need to simmer down she ain't no spy. But she sure knows what's going on. Don't you, Twilight?" Twilight sighed and stepped out from behind Reiner. "I read all about the prediction of Nightmare Moon. Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her, but I don't know what they are, where to find them; I don't even know what they do!" The ponies then heard Pinkie Pie talking in the background "The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide". Twilight shoved Pinkie out of the way and grabbed the book "How did you find it"? she asked the earth pony. "It was under E". Pinkie said in a sing song voice. "Oh". Twilight flipped through the book and got to the page the explained what the Elements of Harmony we're where she began to read "There are eight elements of Harmony but only seven are known. Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty, Loyalty, Bravery, and Motavation". The eighth one is a complte mystery". "So where are they"? asked Bertholdt. Twilight contiued to read. "It is said, the last known location of the seven elements was in the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters. It is located in what is now. The Everfree Forest". Everypony gasped after Twilight said that. A few mintues Later. The 8 ponies arrived at the foot of the forest, Fluttershy was trembeling in fear and clung to Bertholdt who also had a drip of sweat on his forehead. Great, of all the places here I didn't want to come back to he thought to himself. Pinkie Pie however was very exicited and began to walk forward. "Whee! Let's go"! The earth pony began to bounce forward only for Twilight to use her magic to hold Pinkie back "Not so fast. Look, I appreciate the offer, but I'd really rather do this on my own". Applejack walked up to Twilight with a stern look on her face, she had no intentions of letting the young unicorn go off into the Everfree Forest by herself. "No can do, sugarcube. We sure ain't lettin' any friend of ours go into that creepy place alone. We're stickin' to you like caramel on a candy apple". "Applejack's right Twilight, we're all in this together", Reiner said Everyone nodded in agreement. "Especially if there's candy apples in there". Pinkie exclaimed exicedtly This caused everyone to stair at her. "What? They're good". Pinkie defened her statment. Twilight sighed in defeat, and the eight ponies began to venture into the forest. After about 15 minutes of silence Twilight decieded to speak up. "So, none of you have been in here before"? Rarity repiled to Twilight's question with a hint of disgust in her voice "Ugh, heavens no! Just look at it - it's dreadful". "And it ain't natural. Folks say it don't work the same as Equestria". Applejack replied "What's that supposed to mean"? Twilight asked "Nopony knows" said Rainbow Dash as she crept towards the others. You know why? She contiued "Rainbow! Quit it"! Applejack scolded, The Rainbow haired pegasus however didn't listen to the orange Earth Pony and contiued to creep towards the others "cause everypony who's ever come in has never come" out! All of a sudden there was a loud crash, and Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Reiner, Applejack, and Rarity began to slide down the cliff side. "Fluttershy! Bertholdt! QUICK"! she shouted at the other two pegasi. "Oh my goodness oh my goodness"! Fluttershy stammered Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy flew down and manged to grab Rarity, while Bertholdt got Pinkie Pie, However niether of them we're abel to get to Applejack, Reiner, or Twilight. Applejack manged to catch herself on a branch, But Reiner and Twilight tumble over the edge wtih Reiner holding to the ledge, and Twilight holding on to Reiner legs. "Hold on! I'm a-comin"! Applejack grabbed on to Reiner's hooves, "Applejack! What do we do"? Twilight asked Applejack hesited to ansewer before looking up. "Let go", she told them What?! exclaimed Reiner "Are you crazy"?! Twilight responeded "No I ani't" Applejack said defenseilvy. "I promise You'll be safe". Twilight thought Applejack was insane "That's not true"! However Reiner decieded to they should trust Applejack, he thought back to Armin's speech to the Garrison when Eren's Titan was revealed As a soldier, I have long sworn to give my heart for the restoration of humankind! Nothing would make me happier than to die for that cause! If we combine his Titan ability with our own remaining manpower, we can retake this city! For humanity's glory, in what little time I have left to live, I will continue to advocate his strategic value! "I think she's on to something Twilight". "WHAT! Reiner you can't seriously believe that if we" Applejack intterupted Twilight mid senteance. "Reiner's right Twi, What I'm sayin' to you is the honest truth. Let go, and you'll be safe". Reiner looked up at Applejack and nodded, He then reached down and pulled Twilight up close to him. "Hold on tightly to me, and don't be afraid". Twilight looked into Reiner's eyes, and nodded before wrapping her hooves around his waist Reiner let go of the ledge and let himself and Twilight fall off the cliff. Twilight held tightly on to Reiner and screamed waiting for the impact, However it didn't happen. Twilight, open your eyes the young unincorn heard Reiner say. Twilight oblidged and looked up to see that Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt had caught them, though Fluttershy almost dropped them again, but she manged to tighten her grip. "Sorry girls. I'm not used to holding anything more than a bunny or two". Twilight smiled, as she saw Applejack jumping on the ledges down the cliff. However the black mass that Nightmare Moon had turned into had been following the Ponies since the beggining, Enraged that her plan to stop them failed she went over to the nearest thing she could find, "I need to stop them from getting the elements of harmony, but how". It was then, she spotted something. Rushing over, she pricked an unknown creature causing it to roar in rage. The group kept going listiening as Rainbow Dash talk about what had just happened "And once Pinkie and Rarity were saved, whoosh... Me, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt loop-de-loop around and WHAM! Caught you right in the nick of time". Reiner rolled his eyes at Rainbow's story "Yes, Rainbow, Both Twilight, and I we're there, and we are very grateful to you", Reiner was intteruped when, something appeared infront of them. "A manticore"! Twilight screamed. Sure enough, a huge manticore was standing right in front of the eight ponies blocking their path. "And it's the same one that attacked, me and Reiner"! Bertholdt exclaimed. Everyone looked at the pegasus stallion. "Then we have to get past him"! Twilight stated. Seven of the eight ponies charged at large creature, but Fluttershy stayed back. "Wait" she said meekly, only to be ignored "TAKE THAT YOU RUFFIAN"! Rarity yelled kicking the big cat! The manticore responed by roaring in Rarity's face "Ah! My hair"! the unicorn cried in despair. The creature roared again, prompting Rarity to run away! "Wait" Applejack leaped on the manticore's back "YEE-HAW! Git along, little dogie". "Wait" But once again Fluttershy was ignored Applejack kept on trying to bring the manticore down but she was eventually knocked down. "Whoa! All yours, partner". She shouted to Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash flew over to attack the monster "I'm on it"! Fluttershy tried once again to call out "Wait". Rainbow flew up to the manticore only to have it roar at her. She screamed and fell to the ground. "RAINBOW"! Twilight screamed, but before the manticore could somepony shouted "HEY STINK BREATH"! The manticore turned to see Reiner, and Bertholdt standing there "Remeber us", asked Reiner The manticore did. It got into a stance. So did Reiner. "Reiner, are you sure you can fight that thing"? asked Bertholdt Reiner looked at his friend. "Of course I can"! With that, Reiner charged at the large cat like creture, but Fluttershy finally having enough leaped infront of him "WAIT"! Reiner skidded to a halt and stared at Fluttershy, who looked at him with reasurreance before walking up to the Manticore who raised it's claw at her, the others closed their eyes, but opened them when they heard Fluttershy speaking softly to the manticore. "Shhh... It's okay". The manticore heard the kindness in Fluttershy's voice, and showed her it's paw to reveal a thron inside of it "Oh, you poor, poor little baby". "Little"? Rainbow Dash asked in confusion. Fluttershy however ignored her and contiued to talk to the manticore. "Now this might hurt for just a second". Fluttershy used her teeth to pull out the thorn, causing the manticore to pick her up and roar in her face "FLUTTERSHY"! Everypony shouted in fear, but their fear was replaced by shock when they saw the manticore happily liking her. "Aw you're just a little ol' baby kitty, aren't you? Yes you are, yes you are". Reiner walked up to Fluttershy "How did you know about the thorn"? he asked Fluttershy smiled at him before replying "I didn't. Sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness. Oh also the manticore says he's sorry for what he did to you". Reiner smiled at that. Currently Publicly Available Information Castle of the two Sisters. The old home of Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna. Celestia left the castle after banishing Nightmare Moon over 1000 years ago. It is the last known location of the Elements of Harmony. As the group of ponies kept on walking they came to a darker area of the forest. There was so much mud in the area, and Rarity couldn't stand it. "No. My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck". she stated only to step in a face fool of it. "Well, I didn't mean that literally". Twilight was looking at the map, and was looking for where to go next, but it was so dark she couldn't see anything "That ancient ruin could be right in front of our faces and we wouldn't even know it". As Twilight was staring at the map she felt Rarity bump into her "I didn't see you there, my apologies". Rainbow Dash flying around very confused. "Right here... guh.." she groaned Bertholdt walked up to Twilight who still had the map. "For all we know we could have already past it. He said in concern". "No Bertholdt! we couldn't have". Twilight said in a slight panic. Reiner came over as well "Twilight it's ok, we just need to get out of this area of the forest". "You're right, thanks Reiner". Applejack was stumbling around confused on where she was. "Oh wait, I think I stepped in somethin". As for Fluttershy, she was so scared she didn't know what was going on, but when she was abel to gather her thoughts she saw the face of a monster inside a tree causing her to scream. Applejack turned around in an attempt to calm her down "It's just mud". However Applejack saw the faces as well "Aah"! Soon they we're all surronded by scary faced trees, Twilight and Fluttershy each grabbed on to Reiner, and Bertholdt, who both looked at the trees in shock and confusion, while Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity backed away in fear. The group was for sure this was the end for them, when they suddendly heard giggling, they looked over to see Pinkie Pie laughing and making faces at the tree. "Huh"? they gasped in confusion Pinkie Pie contiued to make silly faces confusing the ponies even more. "Pinkie, what are you doing"?! Run! Bertholdt Exclaimed. Pinkie Pie however looked at him and chuckled "Oh Bertholdt, don't you see"? A few moments later she began to sing When I was a little filly and the sun was going down... "Tell me she's not". said Twilight Pinkie Contiued The darkness and the shadows, they would always make me frown... "She is". Reiner confirmed They contiued to listen as Pinkie Pie kept on singing I'd hide under my pillow From what I thought I saw But Granny Pie said that wasn't the way To deal with fears at all "Then what is"? asked Rainbow Dash Pinkie started again. She said. Pinkie, you gotta stand up tall Learn to face your fears You'll see that they can't hurt you Just laugh to make them disappear. and with that, Pinkie Pie did just that Ha Ha Ha and the face disappered, which caused the other ponies to gasp in shock. So, giggle at the ghostly Guffaw at the grossly Crack up at the creepy Whoop it up with the weepy Chortle at the kooky Snortle at the spooky And tell that big dumb scary face to take a hike and leave you alone and if he thinks he can scare you then he's got another thing coming and the very idea of such a thing just makes you wanna... hahahaha... heh... Laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaauuuugh! and that's what they all did, soon they we're all rolling on the floor laughing themselves silly. After about five minutes of laughing, the group manged to pull themselves together. Reiner stood up and got ready to keep moving on "Well as fun as that was, we have to contiued", "Reiner's right, the elements of harmony won't find themselves". said Twilight. And with that, the group of ponies contiued moving on, though they're still laughing a little bit, soon however they had to stop at a river. The water inside was rushing so fast, and there was no way they would be able to get across How are we gonna cross this? Pinkie Pie asked. It was then she herd a distant cry "Huh"? Bertholdt flew up in the air to see if he could spot who or what made the cry. He looked around until he spotted a giant serpant sobbing in the river, and causing the waves in the river. "What a world, what a world". Bertholdt flew over to the serpant to see what was wrong. "Excuse me, sir. Why are you crying"? "Yeah, what's wrong"? Reiner asked joining Bertholdt The serpant looked down at Bertholdt and Reiner and ansewred their question "Well, I don't know. I was just sitting here, minding my own business, when this tacky little cloud of purple smoke just whisked past me and tore half of my beloved mustache clean off, and now I look simply horrid". Rainbow Dash slapped her face with her hoove "Oh, give me a break". Applejack also groaned in frustration "That's what all the fuss is about"? Rarity however felt sorry for the serpant and wanted to help him, She couldn't belive how insenstive Applejack and Rainbow Dash were being. "Why, of course it is. How can you be so insensitive? Oh, just look at him. Such lovely luminescent scales." The serpant smiled, "I know" "And your expertly coiffed mane". "Oh, I know, I know". Your fabulous manicure. "It's so true"! "All ruined without your beautiful mustache". "It's true, I'm hideous"! "I simply cannot let such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected". Rarity walked over to the serpent, and yanked off one of his scales "YOW! What did you do that for"? The others were very confused on what Rarity's intentions were "Rarity, what are you-". Reiner was about to ask when he saw what transpired. Rarity had cut off most of her tail and used it to replace to missing half of the serpants mustache, and the serpant, well he couldn't be more greatful "Oh-hohohoho! My mustache. How wonderful". "You look smashing". Twilight smiled but felt bad for what Rarity had to her tail though. "Oh, Rarity, your beautiful tail..." Rarity simply smiled at Twilight to reaasure her "Oh. It's fine, my dear. Short tails are in this season. Besides, it'll grow back". "So would the mustache". Rainbow Dash whispered to Applejack who nodded. Reiner looked ahead and saw that they could now cross the river "We can cross now"! The serpant then appeared infront of them again, offering to let them cross over his back. "Allow me". The group walked over thanking the serpant for his help. After some time, they finally noticed a ruined castle in the distances Reiner noticed the castle first, and thought back to when he and Bertholdt we're still with the scouts. That kind of looks like Utgard Castle Twilight walked up to the Unicorn stailion in confusion "Reiner? What are you looking at"? It was then Twilight too noticed the castle. and she gasped in delight "There it is, the ruin that holds The Elements of Harmony. We made it"! Twilight began to rush forward as Applejack called out to her. "Twilight, wait for us"! But Twilight didn't stop, which resulted in her nearly falling off another cliff "We're almost there. Whoa"! Luckliy, Reiner snapped out of his thoughts in time to catch her. "What's with you and falling off cliffs today"? "Now what"? asked Pinkie Pie. "Yeah, how the hell are we gonna get across this"? asked Bertholdt "Duh". stated Rainbow Dash. She flew over to a bridge that was over a few feet next to them "All I have to do is tie this rope to the other siade and we'll be good". "Oh yeah". Said Pinkie Rainbow flew to the other side of the bridge, when she heard a voice call her name "Rainbow" "Who's there"? "Rainbow..." "I ain't scared of you! Show yourself"! Three ponies came out of the fog, to Rainbow Dash, they looked like dark verisons of the wonderbolts. The leader spoke to her. "We've been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the best flyer in Equestria". Dash was confused. "Who? The leader responded "Why, you, of course". Rainbow Dash gasped in delight. "Really?! I mean... Oh yeah, me. Hey, uh, you wouldn't mind telling the Wonderbolts that, would ya? 'cause I've been trying to get into that group for like, ever". But the leader cut her off. "No, Rainbow Dash. We want you to join us, The Shadowbolts. We're the greatest aerial team in the Everfree Forest, and soon we will be the greatest in all Equestria, but first, we need a captain. The most magnificent-" "Yep". "Swiftest."- "Yes". "Bravest flyer in all the land." "Yes! It's all true." "We need... you". Rainbow Dash cheered with joy. "WOOHOO! Sign me up. Just let me tie this bridge real quick and then we have a deal". But the leader stopped her. " No! It's them or us" Rainbow Dash looked back in shock, not knowing for sure what to do. On the other side of the bridge Twilight was confused on what was keeping Rainbow Dash. "Rainbow, what's taking so long"? She gasped when she saw the shadowbolts. "Oh no. Rainbow! Don't listen to them". "Well"? The leader asked Rainbow looked at the ground, and then back up at the leader before speaking. "You". The leader smiled, thinking that Dash had chosen them over her friends, but her smiled faded when Dash contiued to speak. "Thank you! For the offer, I mean, but I'm afraid I have to say no". The leader gasp as she and the shadowbolts disappered while the other ponies cheered as Rainbow Dash flew over to Twilight. "See? I'd never leave my friends hangin". Soon they made it across the bridge when Rarity noticed one of them was missing "Hey, where in equestria is Bertholdt"? The ponies looked over to see the pegasus staillion still on the other side. "Bertholdt! Come on"! Twilight called out. "Right! I'm coming". he called. Bertholdt trotted carefully across the bridge and joined the others. "What the hay was that about"? asked Applejack. "Sorry, not really could with heights". Rainbow Dash gasped in shock. "Then how we're you able to both save Pinkie Pie, and help me, and Fluttershy rescue Twilight, and Reiner". "Honestly it was due to the adrenaline rush. So I wasn't really able to process what was happening, the only thing on my mind at that moment was, Help my Friends, and here. I remember what was at stake. We can't let Nightmare Moon plunge Equestria into eternal night". Bertholdt told them. The group smiled as they headed into the castle "Wow, that was really brave of him". Twilight thought to herself. The eight ponies walked into the castle, and saw seven orbs on the floor "Whoa". gasped Twilight. Applejack walked up to Twilight. "Come on, Twilight. Isn't this what you've been waitin' for"? "The Elements of Harmony, we've found them. Careful, careful"! Twilight lit up her horn igniting a spark which reaveled the Elements. Pinkie Pie counted "One, two, three, four, five, six, seven..... There's only seven"! Twilight was confused. "Where's the eighth"? asked Rainbow Dash "You think we did it wrong"? Bertholdt wondered Twilight spoke up, reciting what she read in the book. The book said: when the seven elements a spark will cause the eighthElement to be revealed. "What the Hay is that supossed to mean"? asked Applejack. "I'm not sure, but I have an idea. Stand back. I don't know what will happen". Twilight replied Reiner walked up to Twilight. "I'll help you, who knows maybe it needs two sparks to work". Twilight looked at him. "Thank you Reiner, the rest of you wait outside". "Come on now, y'all. they need to concentrate". The others stepped outside as Twilight and Reiner lit up their horns, when all of a sudden the dark cloud that had been following them appeared causing Twilight to scream, and Reiner to grunt. Soon a bang was heard by the others outside. "Twilight! Reiner"! they screamed before rushing back into the castle but the two of them we're gone "Twilight, Reiner". called Fluttershy. "What"? asked Rarity "Where did they go"? asked Rarity. "I don't know". said Bertholdt "What happend"? asked Pinkie "What's going on"? asked Rainbow Dash. "Twilight, Reiner"! Where are you asked Applejack. "Look"! Rarity called pointing to a tower "Come on"! said Applejack Meanwhile in the tower Twilight opened her eyes. The first thing she saw was Reiner standing over her with a worried looking on his face. She immediately flew into his hooves and hugged him. "OH MY GOD! REINER, ARE YOU OK"? she asked. "Yeah, I'm fine. How bout you"? he asked Twilight nodded, before gasping and clining on to Reiner tighter. Reiner turned around and saw Nightmare Moon standing there. (Attack on Titan Plays) Twilight and Reiner stared at Nightmare Moon and got ready to charge. "You're kidding. You're kidding, right"? Nightmare Moon asked, but soon enoguh all three ponies where charging each other, just as they were about to colide, Twilight and Reiner both teleported to the Elements and attempted to get the Eight one to appear. "Just one spark. Come on, come on. Aah!" "No! NO!" Exclaimed Nightmare Moon, but unfourently for Twilight and Reiner, nothing happend. Twilight gasped, "But! Where's the eighth Element"?! Nightmare Moon laughed "You Little foals! Thinking you could defeat me"? She then destroyed the Elements of Harmony. "Now you will never see your princess, or your sun! The night will last forever"! Twilight collasped to the ground in defeat. her eyes filling with tears. Reiner looked down at Twilight in remorse. He then rememberd what Eren said the day of graduation. (Heartbeat plays) So what! we're going to do nothing with what we learned, Let it all be meaningless Reiner sighed and spoke to Twilight. "Are you just going to give up, just like that". Twilight looked up at him. "Remember what I told you"? "If Nightmare Moon does return, you'll find a way to stop her" Twilight gave Reiner a small smile, which grew wider when she heard their other friends. Twilight stared back at Nightmare Moon. (Vogel im Kafig Plays) "You think you can destroy The Elements of Harmony just like that? Well, you're wrong, because the spirits of The Elements of Harmony are right here". The Mane Eight stood together to confront the dark alicorn "What"?! Exlcaimed Nightmare Moon. Twilight then recounted what they all did. Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of... honesty Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of... kindness! Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of... laughter! Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift represents the spirit of... generosity! Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends for her own heart's desire represents the spirit of... loyalty! Bertholdt Hoover, who overcame his fear of heights to see the mission through, represents the spirit of... bravery! And Reiner Braun, who just reminded to never give up, represents the spirit of... motavation! The spirits of these eight ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us". Nightmare Moon groweld in frustration. "You still don't have the eighth Element! The spark didn't work"! Twilight smirked. "But it did! A different kind of spark. I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all... are my friends! You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the... the spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the eighth element: the element of... magic! Soon a large Rainbow appeared from the neckles around each ponies neck and Surroned Nightmare Moon. "NO! NOOOO"! In a blink of an eye, it was over. "Ugh, my head". groaned Rainbow Dash "Everypony okay"? asked Applejack. 'Oh thank goodness"! exclaimed Rarity "Why Rarity, it's so lovely". said Fluttershy Rarity, thinking Fluttershy was talking about her tail agreed. "No. Your necklace. It looks just like your cutie mark". "What? Ooh. So does yours". Fluttershy gasped "Look at mine! Look at mine"! exclaimed Pinkie. Aw Yeah! said Rainbow Dash. "Huh, not bad, what do you think Bertholdt'? asked Reiner "Yeah. this is nice". Bertholdt said. "Gee, Twilight! I thought you were just spoutin' a lot of hooey, but I reckon we really do represent the elements of friendship". said Applejack "Indeed you do". a voice said. The ponies looked over and saw Princess Celestia appear before them "Princess Celestia". Twilight gasped as she went to hug her mentor "Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student. I knew you could do it". "But... you told me it was all an old pony tale". Celestia shook her head. "I told you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more. I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return, and I knew it was you who had the magic inside to defeat her, but you could not unleash it until you let true friendship into your heart. Now if only another will as well. Princess Luna!" The mentioned princess gasped and backed away as Celestia walked towards her. "It has been a thousand years since I have seen you like this. Time to put our differences behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister". "Sister"? Reiner and Bertholdt gasped "Will you accept my friendship"? Celestia asked. "Whoa". said Pinkie Princess Luna looked down, before rushing to embrace Celestia. "I'm so sorry"! I missed you so much, big sister! Celestia smiled with tears in her eyes "I've missed you too". Pinkie Pie began sobbing loudly, before gasping in delight "Hey, you know what this calls for"? In a few seconds they're all back in ponyville greated by their friends and familed. "I'm never going to get used to that". Bertholdt said to Reiner. "Me neither". Reiner responed. Twilight smiled at everything, but her smiled soon turned into a frown, as Celestia walked over to her. "Why so glum, my faithful student? Are you not happy that your quest is complete and you can return to your studies in Canterlot"? Twilight nodded. "That's just it. Just when I learned how wonderful it is to have friends, I have to leave them". Celestia nodded. "Spike, take a note, please". The little dragon pulled out a paper and quil I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorn Twilight Sparkle shall take on a new mission for Equestria. She must continue to study the magic of friendship. She must report to me her findings from her new home in Ponyville. Everyone cheered and Twilight smiled at her mentor "Oh thank you, Princess Celestia! I'll study harder than ever before". Pinkie Pie ran over to Twilight. "Isn't this exciting? Are you excited cause I'm excited I've never been so excited, well, except for the time that I went [deep gasp] but I mean really-" "Yes Pinkie, I'm excited" Twilight said. Post Credits A cloaked figure walked in dark room towards a throne that was facing away from the figure. "Master. Nightmare Moon has been turned back to normal. The Elements of Harmony have been discoverd. These eight ponies will pose a great threat to us. What is your plan"? The throne turned around, and the creature sitting on it stood up and stepped into the light. It was a large blue ram, with sharp gleaming teeth, a colar, and glowing red eyes. The ram simply smiled at the cloaked figure before motioning towards a portrit on the wall. A portirit, of a bell. Preview Twilight recives two tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala, but can't decied who to bring. Can Reiner, and Bertholdt help her with out dissapointing their other friends? Next Episode. The Ticket Master. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Twilight Sparkle Spike Pinkie Pie Reiner Braun Rarity Princess Luna/Nightmare Moon Mayor Mare Rainbow Dash Bertholdt Hoover Applejack Fluttershy Armin Arlert (Flashback) Kitz Wooreman (Flashback) Ian Ditrench (Flashback) Rico Brzenzka (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Steven Magnet Eren Yeager (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Thomas Wagner (Flashback) Franz Kefka (Flashback) Hanna Diamant (Flashback) Mina Carolina (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Princess Celestia Lyra Heartstrings Dinky Do Bray Grogar Episode 8: The Ticket Master: Gala arc Part 1The sun shone brightly over Sweet Apple Acres. Twilight and Spike we're helping Applejack harvest some of the apples from her orchrad. As the walked through the trees, Spike was siffting through the apples, and throwing out the ones he thought looked, disgusting "No. Nope. Nope"... Applejack looked back and Twilight, appreciating her help, even though she had just moved to ponyville no more then two days ago. "Thank you kindly, Twilight, for helping me out. I bet Big McIntosh I could get all these Golden Delicious in the barn by lunchtime. If I win, he's gonna walk down Stirrup Street in one of Granny's girdles". Twilight smiled, she was glad she was able to help out Applejack with something that was very important to her family. "No problem at all, Applejack. I'm glad the goal is lunchtime. All this hard work is making me hungry". Spike spoke up from Twilight's back in exicetment "I know, right"? However Twilight only rolled her eyes at Spike's statment "Puh-lease, Spike. You've been lounging on my back all morning while we worked". Spike looked back at Twilight with a sly smrik on his face. "Exactly. You two are taking so long, I missed snack-time". Twilight chuckled nervoulsy at that sentenece, paritly because she new Spike was right. "Eh, I guess we better get some food". Spike kept throwing more apples out of the bag. "Nope. Worm". After throwing more Apples out, Spike finally manged to find one he thought was perfect "A ha"! Twilight looked back and saw the apple, she had a look of pure delight on her face. "Oh Spike, that looks delicious"! Spike however ate the entire apple in one giant bite, causing Twilight to become very annoyed. "Spike"! Spike looked back at her in confusion. "What"? Before Twilight could answer though Spike suddendly burpped up a note. Twilight looked at it, and knew where it was from "It's a letter from Princess Celestia". Spike picked up the letter, and began to read. "Hear ye, hear ye. Her Grand Royal Highness, Princess Celestia of Equestria, is pleased to announce the Grand Galloping Gala to be held in the magnificent capital city of Canterlot, on the 21st day of, eh, yadda yadda yadda, cordially extends an invitation to Twilight Sparkle plus one guest". Twilight and Applejack looked at each other with exicientment "The Grand Galloping Gala". Both Twilight and Applejack squeeled in exicietment. "The Grand Galloping Gala". Spike looked on in disgust before burping again. "Look, two tickets" Twilight smiled at her number one assaisntant. "Wow, great! I've never been to the gala. Have you, Spike"? "No, and I plan to keep it that way. I don't want any of that girly frilly frou-frou nonsense". Spike answered Twilight just chuckled at his reasoning for not wanting to go. "Aw, come on Spike. A dance would be nice". Applejack spoke up in exicetment. "Nice? It's a heap good more than just nice. I'd love to go. Land sakes... If I had an apple stand set up, ponies would be chowin' our tasty vittles 'til the cows came home. Do you have any idea how much business I could drum up for Sweet Apple Acres? Why, with all that money, we could do a heap of fixin' up 'round here. We could replace that saggy old roof, and Big McIntosh could replace that saggy old plow, and Granny Smith could replace that saggy old hip. Why, I'd give my left hind leg to go to that gala". Twilight thoguht about the things Applejack was saying, and decieded to ask her if she wanted the extra ticket. "Oh, well in that case, would you like to"— Twilight was intterupted by a gasp and a crash "Whoa"! Rainbow Dash fell from one of the trees in the orchard, with a look of joy on her face. "Ugh. Are we talking about the Grand Galloping Gala"? Applejack looked at Rainbow Dash in clear annoyance, because said pegasus was supposed to have been helping them that moring. "Rainbow Dash. You told me you were too busy to help me harvest apples. What were you busy doing? Spyin"? Rainbow Dash looked at Applejack with a cockey smirk. "No, I was busy napping, and I just happened to hear that you have an extra ticket"? "Yes but". Twilight began to answer only for Dash to intterupt her. "YES! This is so awesome. The Wonderbolts perform at the Grand Galloping Gala every year. I can see it now... Everyone would be watching the sky. Their eyes riveted on the Wonderbolts, but then in would fly Rainbow Dash! Then, I would mesmerize 'em with my Fantastic Filly Flash. And for my grand finale, the Buccaneer Blaze! The ponies would go wild! The Wonderbolts would insist that my signature moves be incorporated into their routine, and then welcome me as their newest member. Don't you see, Twilight? This could be my one chance to show 'em my stuff. You gotta take me"! Rainbow Dash was pulled back by Applejack before Twilight could say anything. "Hold on just one pony pickin' minute here. I asked for that ticket first". Rainbow Dash looked back at Applejack. "So? That doesn't mean you own it". "Oh, yeah? Well I challenge you to a hoof-wrestle. Winner gets the ticket". "The two of them began to fight". "Come on Dash! I need to the Ticket so I can get the farm more money"! "Well I need it so I can sign up for the Wonderbolts"! "Yeah Well I need it to". Applejack then stopped all of a sudden. "Wait sign! Oh Shit"! "What's wrong"? asked Spike "I forgot, I need to sign a permisson slip for Apple Bloom so she can go on a field trip with her class tommorow. Excues me for a moment". Applejack pulled out a piece of papper and a pen, and signed her name at the bottom. "Twilight, would be as so kind to give this to Apple Bloom, she's in her room". "Sure thing Applejack". Twilight said. "And maybe it will give me enough time to think about who I should give the ticket to" Twilight and Spike walked up the stairs until the came to Apple Bloom's room. Once their Twilight knocked on the door. "Come in. Apple Bloom" said from inside the room. Twilight and Spike walked into the room, and saw Apple Bloom reading a book on her bed. Twilight, and Spike looked around in Apple Bloom's room, there were quite a lot of posters of wolves all around her room, there we're also Wolf statues on her dressers, and even a stuffed wolf on her bed. Apple Bloom looked up from her book, and smiled at Twlight, and Spike. "Hello, Ms. Twilight, Spike, what can I do for ya". Twilight walked over to Apple Bloom, "Applejack wanted me to give you this". Twilight gave Apple Bloom the slip, the little filly's face lit up. "Oh thank you! I was worried Applejack had forgotten". "Yeah, uh no problem". Twilight said as she and Spike continue to look at Apple Bloom's room. Apple Bloom noticed this, and raised her eyebrow. "What's wrong"? She asked. "Oh nothing Apple Bloom, it's just". Twilight began, but couldn't find herself being able to finish so Spike did. "Looks like you really like wolves". Spike stated. Apple Bloom smiled. "Yeah, they're my favorite animal". She told them. "How come"? Asked Twilight. Apple Bloom thought for a moment. "Hmm, I'm not sure. I guess I just find them fascinating creatures". She replied. Twilight, and Spike smiled satisfied with that answer, though there still was one question Spike wanted to ask. "What's with that stuffed wolf on your pet"? He asked. "Please don't touch him, wolfiee is very important to me". Apple Bloom said. Hearing the seriousness in her voice Spike didn't push for anymore information on it, and decieded to let it go. "What book were you reading, is it also about wolves"? Twilight asked. "There are wolves in it. It's a story about a girl who has two guys fall in love with her. One guy is a vampire, and the other is a werewolf, and there are two sides trying to help one of the guys win. Personally I'm on the wolves side". Apple Bloom stated. "Ugh, sounds very cliche and sappy to me". Spike replied. "Maybe to you, but I for one think's it's very romantic". Apple Bloom stated as she got up, and walked towards the windows, and saw Applejack and Rainbow Dash hoof wrestling. "What's going on out there". She asked Twilight looked out the window and sighed "Oh no" Twilight then explained to Apple Bloom what transpired outside. "That is a tough decsion to make". "I know, both of them have valid reasons to want to go, and I can't bring myself to say no to either of them". Apple Bloom looked down, "Well you should tell them that". Twilight looked confused. "What do you mean"? "Ah mean their your tickets, so it's up to you to decied". Twilight smiled, for a little filly, Apple Bloom sure was smart. "You're right, thanks Apple Bloom". "No problem Ms. Twilight". Twilight and Spike left Apple Bloom's room, and walked towards Applejack, and Rainbow Dash who we're still arguing "I need the ticket to raise money for the farm"! "Well I need it so I can achive my life long goal"! Twilight walked up to the two and intterupted them. "Girls, these are my tickets, I'll decide who gets it, thank you very much. Whoever has the best reason to go should get the ticket, don't you think"? Both Applejack and Rainbow Dash then each began giving their reasons as to why they should go. "Drummin' up business for the farm"? "A chance to audition for the Wonderbolts"? "Money t' fix Granny's hip" "Living the dream". Twilight looked at both of her friends, now even more conflicted on which one of them to bring. "Oh my, those were all pretty good reasons, aren't they"? Twilight then heard her stomach rumbling, she sighed in relief as she now had a reason to leave. "Listen to that, I am starving. I don't know about you, but I can't make important decisions on an empty stomach, so I'll, uh, think about it over lunch and get back to you two, okay"? Applejack and Rainbow Dash sighed "Okay". Arriving back in ponyville Twilight stopped to think about her situation, Spike who was curious about Twilight's decsion decieded to ask who she was considering taking. "So, who you gonna give the ticket to, Twilight"? "I don't know Spike, but I really can't think straight when I'm hungry, so where should we eat"? Before Spike could decied however Twilight bumped stright into Pinkie Pie, knocking all three of them down, and causing the tickets to land on Pinkie's face, causing her to compltely flip out. "Gah! Bats! Bats on my face! Help"! However, Pinkie stopped when she realized what they really were "Wait, these aren't... tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala?! It's the most amazing incredible tremendous super-fun wonderful terrifically humongous party in all of Equestria! I've always always always wanted to go"! In her exicetment, Pinkie Pie began to sing an upbeat happy tune "Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me Hip hip Hooray! It's the best place for me For Pinkie"... She stopped for a brief momment to talk about everything she expected to be there "With decorations like streamers and fairy-lights and pinwheels and piñatas and pin-cushions. With goodies like sugar cubes and sugar canes and sundaes and sun-beams and sarsaparilla. And I get to play my favorite-est of favorite fantabulous games like Pin the Tail on the Pony"! She then contiued her song "Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me 'Cause it's the most galarrific superly-terrific gala ever In the whole galaxy Wheee!!" After she was finished, Pinkie Pie rushed to Twilight and gave her a gigantic hug "Oh no" Twilight thought to herself Sure enough, Twilight's fears we're realized when Pinkie began to speak "Oh thank you, Twilight, it's the most wonderful-est gift ever". "Uh actually". Twilight began only to be intterupted by a shocked gasp. Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie looked over to see Rarity eyeing the tickets "Are these what I think they are"? "Uh"...... Twilight began only to have Pinkie Pie intterupt her. "Yes, yes, yes! Twilight's taking me to the Grand Galloping Gala in Canterlot". "The gala? I design ensembles for the gala every year, but I've never had the opportunity to attend. Oh, the society, the culture, the glamour! It's where I truly belong, and where I'm destined to meet him". Pinkie Pie smiled, "Him"! Then she became confused. "Who"? "Him"! Rarity repated. Seeing that her friends we're still very confused, Rarity began to Explain. "I would stroll through the gala, and everyone would wonder, "Who is that mysterious mare?" They would never guess that I was just a simple pony from little old Ponyville. Why, I would cause such a sensation that I would be invited for an audience with Princess Celestia herself, and the princess would be so taken with the style and elegance that she would introduce me to him, her nephew: the most handsome, eligible unicorn stallion in Canterlot. Our eyes would meet, our hearts would melt. Our courtship would be magnificent. He would ask for my hoof in marriage, and of course I would say, "Yes!" We would have a royal wedding, befitting a princess, which is what I would become upon marrying him, the stallion of my dreams". Rarity then turned to Twilight "Twilight, I simply cannot believe you would invite Pinkie Pie so she can... party, and prevent me from meeting my true love. How could you? Hmph". As the three ponies kept talking, Angel snuck up behind Spike and snatched the tickets "Hey"! Angel went to Fluttershy and presented her the tickets, "Angel, these are perfect". Meanwhile Twilight was finally able to get more then one word in "Uh, listen guys, I haven't decided who to give the extra ticket to". "YOU HAVEN'T"!? Both mares gasped Fluttershy then made her pressences known. "Um, excuse me, Twilight. I would just like to ask, I mean, if it would be all right, if you haven't given it to someone else"... Rarity looked at the shy pegausus in complete shock. "You? You want to go to the gala"? Fluttershy shook her head and began to explain "Oh, no. I mean, yes, or, actually, kind of. You see... It's not so much the Grand Galloping Gala as it is the wondrous private gated garden that surrounds the dance. The flowers are said to be the most beautiful and fragrant in all of Equestria. For the night of the gala, and that night alone, would they all be in bloom... and that's just the flora! Don't get me started on the fauna. There's loons and toucans and bitterns, oh my! Hummingbirds that can really hum, and buzzards that can really buzz. White-blue jays, and red jays, and green jays, pink jays and pink flamingos"! Twilight smiled at all the things Fluttershy had just described "Gee, Fluttershy, it sounds beautiful"... Suddendly they're we're all inttreupted by Rainbow Dash. "Wait a minuite" Twilight looked up in annoyance at the cyan pegausus "Rainbow Dash! Were you following me"? Rainbow, knowing she was caught quickly tried to come up with an excuese. "No. I mean, yes. I mean, maybe. Look, it doesn't matter. I couldn't risk a goody-four-shoes like you giving that ticket away to just anybody". Dash was then itterupted by Applejack, "Wait just another minute". Twilight now became even more annoyed "Applejack, were you following me too"? "No. I was followin this one to make sure she didn't try any funny business. Still trying to take mah ticket". Rainbow Dash looked at Applejack in aghast "Your Ticket"?! "But Twilight's taking me"! Pinkie Pie insisted. Soon the five mares we're arguing, causing Twilight to shirnk down in fear. She did not like having this pressure on her, and the argument was making it worse. Twilight thought it couldn't get any worse when all of a sudden, a stallion's voice spoke up. "HEY"! Twilight, and the rest of them looked up to see Reiner and Bertholdt walking towards them. "What the hell is going on here"? Reiner asked. Twilight was about to answer, but was intterupted again when the other five girls all started talking at once. All this did was cause Reiner, and Bertholdt to become even more confused. "Girls! one at a time please"! The authority in Reiner's voice was enough to shut them up. "That's better, now Twilight, will you please explain to Bertholdt, and I what happened". Twilight looked at the two Stallions, and began to explain everything that just transpired. After she was done, Reiner was able to understand the situation. "So Celestia sent you two Tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala"? Twilight nodded. "And You all want the extra Ticket right"? The other five girls nodded. Bertholdt spoke up. "These are Twilight's tickets, so She should decied who gets the ticket". Reiner smiled at his friend. "That's right, now all of you go back home, and give Twilight some space so she can make her decision eaiser". Twilight smiled at the two stailions. "Bertholdt, and Reiner are right girls. This is my decision, and I'm gonna make it on my own, and I certainly can't think straight with all this noise"... Twilight's stomach then growled. "Not to mention hunger. Now go on, shoo". Reiner, and Bertholdt smiled, while the girls left grumbling to themselves. "And don't worry, I'll figure this out... somehow". Currently Publicly Available Information. The Grand Galoping Gala. A Party held in Equestria's captial city of Canterlot. You must be invited by Princess Celestia herself in order to attend. Outside the local cafe, Twilight and Spike were sitting at a table outside, Spike was looking over the menu, but Twilight was lost in thought. She looked up at Spike, and Sighed "Spike, what am I gonna do? I have eight amazing friends,but only two tickets". Spike looked at her confused. "Eight"? "You Spike". Spike smiled at Twilight. "Twilight I told you, I don't want to be part of that girly gala stuff, so I won't get mad if you give the ticket to somepony else". Twilight smiled at Spike, and then began to think about who she should give the extra ticket too "Applejack, or Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, or Fluttershy, Rarity, Reiner, and Bertholdt. Who should I take". The waiter of the cafe then came up to their table "Have you made your decision"? Twilight looked up in annoyance "I CAN'T DECIDE"! Spike looked up at his closest friend "Twilight, he just wants to take your order". Twilight blushed in embarssment "Oh. I would love a daffodil and daisy sandwich". The waiter nodded and wrote down Twilight's order "Do you have any rubies"? The waiter looked at Spike "No? Okay. I'll have the hay fries, extra crispy". After the waiter left, Twilight decieded to Speak to Spike "What do you think, Spike"? Spike answered Twilight without looking at her "I think we have to try another restaurant. I mean, I like grass just fine, but would it hurt anybody to offer some gemstones"? Twilight became frustrated with Spike and spoke up again "I mean about the Gala and the ticket and who I should take". Spike now looking up from the menu glanced at Twilight "Oh. You're still on that"? Twilight glared at the dragon "Spike, listen. How do I choose? And when I do choose, will the other four be mad at me? I mean, I could give up my ticket and give away two, but that would still leave three disappointed ponies. What if I"— Just then, the waiter came back with their order. "Ah, your food" Twilight smiled at the waiter "Oh thank you. This looks so good. I'm sure everything will be much clearer once I eat". However, before Twilight could even get a crumb into her mouth, the waiter called out to her "Em, madam? Are you going to eat your food in ze rain"? Twilight and Spike, looked at him confused as Twilight looked around "It's not raining"... Twilight then looked to her right, and saw that it was rainning all around ponyville, all except where she and Spike were sitting. Rainbow Dash then poked her head out from the whole in the clouds with a supiscous smile on her face. "Hi there, best friend forever I've ever ever had. Enjoying the sunny weather"? Twilight however, was not amused by Dash's actions. "Rainbow Dash, what are you doing"? Rainbow Dash however pretended to act like she didn't know what Twilight was talking about. "Whaddya mean? I just saw the smartest, most generous pony about to get rained on, so I thought I'd kick a hole in the clouds to keep her dry so she could dine in peace, that's all". Twilight raised an eye brow. "Rainbow, you're not trying to get extra consideration for the extra ticket by doing me extra special favors, are you"? Rainbow Dash pretendted to gasp in shock at the accausation. "Me? No no no, of course not". Twilight however could sense Rainbow Dash's bullshit "Uh-huh" "Rainbow Dash, knowing she was caught, still tried to act innocent". "Seriously, I'd do it for anypony". Twilight, was not ammused by Rainbow Dash's excuess "Rainbow, I am not comfortable accepting unwanted favors, so I'd appreciate it if you close up that rain cloud right now". Rainbow Dash gronaed in frustration, fully aware that her plan had failed. "Ugh! Fine!" With that, Rainbow Dash closed the cloud, and left Twilight smiled. "That's better". Unfourtently, before she could take a bite of her sandwich, Twilight ended getting soaked by the rain water, it was then, Rarity showed up. She saw Twilight, and called out to her. "Twilight, it's raining". "No Shit". Twilight thought to herself. "Come with me before you catch a cold". Knowing she had no other choice, Twilight reluctantly followed Rarity to her boitquie. After arrving at the botiquie, Twilight instantly shook off all the water, which ended up soaking Rarity. Twilight smiled sheepishly. "Heh heh, oops, sorry". Rarity simply smiled however. "Oh no, it's quite all right. After all, we are... the best of friends, are we not? And you know what the best of friends do"? "Uh", Twilight began "MAKEOVERS"! Rarity intterupted And with that, Rarity dragged Twilight behind a curtain, and began her work as Twilight grunted in pain. "Ugh, Rarity, ow, this really isn't fixing it. I mean, thank you but, ooh, that's too tight". Rarity finally stopped allowing for Twilight not only to see herself, but also, breath. There. Oh, you're simply darling. Twilight looked at herself in the mirror, and couldn't help but kind of agree with Rarity. "Uh, yeah, it is kinda pretty, isn't it"? Rarity, eyeing Spike then suddendly dragged him over as well "And you. Oh Spike, I have a dandy little outfit for the dashing gent". "D-ah, ow, oh, hey, wow, watch it, whoa"! Twilight giggled at the outfitt Rarity had put Spike in "Oh Spike". "Now you just need a hat." said Rarity Spike teared the outfitt off in annoyance of what Rarity had done to him "Ugh, I told you, I don't want any part of this girly gala gunk. See you back at the library". With that Spike left the botqiue and went outside to wait for Twilight. Rarity laughed off Spike's comment. "Oh, who needs him anyway. This is all about you, and how fabulous you'll look at the Grand Galloping Gala". Twilight, who had been admiring her dress soon realized what Rarity was trying to do. "Wait, the Grand"— Rarity however intterupted her "And oh, my goodness, what a coincidence. I happen to have an ensemble of my own that matches yours to a T. We would be the belles of the ball, you and I. Everyone would be clamoring for our attention. All eyes would be on us, and then everyone would finally know, the most beautiful, most talented, most sophisticated pony in all of Equestria is Rarity the unicorn. Ah, and Twilight Sparkle, of course". Twilight however took her dress off and looked at Rarity in frustration. "I see what's going on. You're just buttering me up so I give you the extra ticket. Well it's not gonna work. You're going to have to wait for my decision just like everyone else. Now if you'll excuse me, I've been trying all day just to get some lunch". Twilight said as she was leaving Rarity's botique. As if on que, right after Twilight said lunch, Applejack appeared right out of nowhere "Did somepony say Lunch". "You got to be kidding" Twilight thought to herself as Applejack grabbed Twilight and put her infront of and cart filled with Apple related food, Apple Bloom was there as well, looking extreamly guilty. Twilight felt sorry that the little filly had been dragged into this. "I got apple pie, apple fritters, apple tarts, apple dumplings, apple crisps, apple crumblers, and apple Brown Betty. Uh, the dessert, not my auntie. What do you say there, best friend"? Twilight's stomach growled and she almost gave in to her hunger which Applejack noticed "Is that a yes" Twilight however was able to overcome her disire for food "No. No. I don't know who I'm giving the ticket to, and all these favors aren't making it any easier to decide. In fact, I'm less sure now than I was this morning. Ugh"! Twilight ran off as Applejack called out to her. "So that's maybe"? "Ugh, I never thought being showered with favors would be so aggravating". Twilight said to herself when she heard a voice call out to her. "Ms. Twilight"! Twilight turned and saw Apple Bloom walking up to her. Twilight smiled at the little filly. "Apple Bloom, I'm so sorry you had to be dragged into this". "Oh don't worry about it", The Little filly smiled. Twilight couldn't help but feel warm at Apple Bloom's smile. Do you wanna come back to the libray with me? Twilight asked. Sure! Apple Bloom replied happily. As the two of them walked they ran into Spike. "So Applejack tried to butter you up too huh Twilight". Twilight sighed. Yeah, hey Spike Apple Bloom's gonna come back to the libray with us, ok? Sure that's fine with me. The three of them then arrived at the libray, and we're greeted to the sight of Fluttershy and her animal friends cleaning the book slelves while humming a little tune. "Fluttershy! Not you too". Fluttershy looked down, and noticed Twilight standing there. "Oh, well, hello Twilight. I hope you don't mind, but we're all doing a little spring cleaning for you". "It's Summer". Twilight replied. Fluttershy quickly came up with an excuse. "Oh, well, better late than never, right? It was Angel's idea". The small bunny then popped out of Fluttershy's tale. Twilight however knew that was not true, but she hoped, and prayed that it was. "You're not doing this for the ticket, are you"? Fluttershy smiled at the unicorn. "Oh no, I'm doing this because you're my very best friend. Right, Angel"? However, the rabbit just looked at Fluttershy, clearly wanting her to tell Twilight the truth. "Oh, yes, we are just doing this for the ticket". Twilight groaned in frustration. "No, no, no! Well, this was all very nice of you and Angel, but I'm not accepting any extra favors until I've made my final decision", so I'm going to have to ask you to leave. The unicorn said as she opened her front door, only to be met with a large crowd SURPRISE! Twilight was then grabbed by Pinkie Pie who began to toss the unicorn up into the air while singing "Twilight is my bestest friend Whoopie, whoopie" ! "Pinkie". Twilight said trying to get the hyperactive pony's attetion, but Pinkie either didn't hear Twilight or simply ignored her as she contiued her song "She's the cutest, smartest, all around best pony, pony!" "Pinkie"! Twilight said again "I bet if I throw a super-duper fun party, party!" "Pinkie"! "She'll give her extra ticket to the Gala to me!" "PIIINKIIIE!!" That finally got Pinkie Pie's attention, and she dropped Twilight. "Yes Twilight?" the earth pony ask oblivously "At least the other ponies tried to be subtle about the ticket". This statment however got the attention of the other poines, as they all came up to Twilight with burning curiosty "Wait, what ticket? What gala"? Without even thinking, Pinkie Pie told everypony Twilight's "secret" "Oh, you didn't know? Twilight has an extra ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala!" This caused all the ponies to shout out in delight "The Grand Galloping Gala?"! All of them began to walk towards Twilight, giving her all sorts of compliments "Have I ever told you how much I love your mane"? one said "I'll wash your dishes". said another "Would you like any help with your gardening"? "I have a cartload of extra carrots". "I'll paint your cart" Spike and Apple Bloom came out to Twilight, as the ponies kept offering favors "What are we gonna do"? Spike asked Twilight looked at him, and Apple Bloom "We're... gonna... RUNNNNNNNNNN!" Soon the three of them we're running as fast as their hooves, and legs could go, hiding in sevreal different places, Apple Bloom then noticed an area with three different past. "Twilight, Spike we need to spilit up"! "Spilt up"? Twilight and Spike asked in usion. "Yeah"! Apple Bloom replied as she ran down the right path. "Hey Twilight, I think she's on to something" Spike said, before running down the left path. Twilight saw the two of them go in seprate directions, and kept running forward, but soon she found herself corned in an alley. Twilight closed her eyes and prepared for the worst, when she heard a voice. "Hey"! Twilight, and the ponies looked to see Apple Bloom. "Ya'll want that extra ticket? I'm the one that has it". With that Apple Bloom ran off again, the crowd in hot pursuit. "No"! Twilight called out, She was about to go after them when she felt a strong pair of hooves grab her. Twilight tried to scream but the hooves covered her mouth. Stop struggling, Twilight heared a familar voice say. Twilight looked up to see Reiner standing their. A smile formed on her face. "Reiner"! Reiner looked at Twilight. "We need to talk". Reiner led Twilight back to his house, and brought her inside. Once inside, Twilight finally got something to eat, as both Reiner, and Bertholdt shared their dinner with her. "Thanks you two, with all that's been happening with the ticket I wasn't able to get anything to eat". "Yeah, that's what we wanted to talk about", Reiner told Twilight. Twilight soon began to sweat, Were they going to fight over the ticket? she started to get worried, but decied to let Reiner speak. "This whole thing is getting out of hand Twilight, you have only two tickets, but all of the girls wanna go". "What about you two"? asked Twilight. "All admit the gala does sound interesting, but niether Bertholdt or I want the ticket. We just can't bring ourselves to put you throught that pressure". Twilight smiled at the two when the door suddendly opened, and in walked Spike covered in bruises and sticks. "I ran from them for hours, only loosing them after I rolled down a very steep hill, let me tell you it was not fun, at all". Then Apple Bloom walked in, but unlike Spike, she was completly fine, without a scratch on you. Spike looked at her in shock, "How are you"? "I hid in a barrel and waited until I knew for sure the cost was clear". Spike just stood there "Why The Hell Didn't I think of That"!? Apple Bloom then looked up at Reiner and Bertholdt. "It worked"! she said "Wait, what"? asked Twilight Apple Bloom was about to ansewer, but after running through town, and since it was dark out she couldn't stay awake to answer Twilight's question and fell asleep. Twilight smiled as Bertholdt stood up "I'll take her home", and with that Bertholdt left with Apple Bloom on his back and headed to Sweet Apple Arces. Twilight then looked up at Reiner. "What did Apple Bloom mean when she said it worked"? Reiner looked at Twilight and began to tell her about Apple Bloom's plan. "You see, after Apple Bloom left school, she came over to us, and told me and Bertholdt about the ticket. So both of us went to find you, and see what was going on, and sure enough we came to see all of them arguing. After that we went back to Apple Bloom, and she told us that she knew how to solve the problem". "And how was that"? asked Spike. Reiner contiued "Apple Bloom, Bertholdt, and I knew that evenutally the whole town would find out about the ticket, and would start to chase you. So when you got corned in that alley, Apple Bloom took that chance to say she had the ticket and let the crowd chase her, and giving me time to grab you" Spike was utterly shock after hearing that Apple Bloom had come up with that. "She came up with all that"? "Yep Reiner replied, Heh reminds me of somepony I used to know" "Apple Bloom you goddamn genius" Twilight looked at Reiner, "So now what do I do"? "That's easy", Reiner said, "Talk to them." Reiner turned on the upstairs lights reavling Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy. Seeing them all made Twilight scream. "I can't decide, I just can't decide! It's important to all of you and I just can't stand to disappoint any of you, and giving me gifts and doing me favors won't make any difference, because you're all my friends and I wanna make you all happy and I can't, I just can't"! "Twilight calm down" She heard Reiner say. Twilight hugged him tightly as Reiner looked up at the others. "Is there anything you girls would like to say"? He asked. Applejack walked over to them. "Twilight, sugar, I didn't mean to put so much pressure on you, and if it helps, I don't want the ticket anymore. You can give it to somepony else. I won't feel bad, I promise". She was then followed by Fluttershy. "Me too. I feel just awful that I made you feel so awful". Then Pinkie Pie "And me too. It's no fun upsetting your friends". and then Rarity "Twilight, it was unfair of me to try to force you as I did". Rainbow Dash however flew into the air and began to celebrate "Yes! That means the ticket is mine. Ha ha, I got the ticket, I got the ticket"—! but she soon stopped herself when she saw the glare Reiner was giving her. "You know, I haven't perfected my signature moves for the Wonderbolts anyway. I don't need that ticket either." Applejack then spoke again. "We all got so gun-ho about going to the gala that we couldn't see how un-gun-ho we were making you." "We're sorry Twilight" the five girls said in unison. This made Twilight smile and she looked over at Spike. Spike, take down a note. "Dear Princess Celestia, I've learned that one of the joys of friendship is sharing your blessings, but when there's not enough blessings to go around, having more than your friends can make you feel pretty awful. So, though I appreciate the invitation, I will be returning both tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala." "WHAT"! The others said in shock, but Twilight contiued "If my friends can't all go, I don't wanna go either". Applejack spoke up "Twilight, you don't have to do that". "Nope. I've made up my mind. Spike, you can send the letter now". Twilight said Fluttershy looked at Twilight sadly "Now you won't get to go to the gala either". But Twilight reassured them "It's okay, girls. I couldn't possibly enjoy myself without my best friends there with me... So i'd rather not go at all". The six of them hugged eachother as Reiner looked on smiling. Spike then began to start belching, as Applejack looked at him and frowned. "Well wallop my withers, Spike. Isn't that just like a boy? Can't handle the least bit of sentiment. At least Reiner knows how to be mature". Spike then burped out a letter near Applejack's face. "WOAH NELLY"! Twilight and the others we're shocked "A letter from the princess? That was fast". Spike picked it up and began to read just as Bertholdt walked back into the house. "My faithful student Twilight, Why didn't you just say so in the first place"? Spike then pulled something out and gasped in shock "Eight tickets"! he said. "Now we can all go"! said Twilight. The girls cheered while Reiner, and Bertholdt smiled. They each took their tickets. Afterwards Spike sighed "How come I don't get a ticket to the gala"? He then burped again "And one for you Spike" Spike ran out of the house giggling until he saw Applejack looking at him. "I mean, gross, I have to go too"? but he soon started to giggle once more, which caused Applejack to chuckle as well. Preview It's time for the Apple Family to harvest their Apples, but with Big Mac injured, Applejack is left to do the harvesting all on her own, and refuses help from anyone. To make matters worse she's loosing sleep which begins to effect her psyci leading to servearl unfourtnete events for the citzens of Ponyville. Next Episode. Applebuck Season. Author's Note Characters in order of appearance Spike Twilight Sparkle Applejack Big Macintosh (Vision) Granny Smith (Vision) Rainbow Dash Suprise (Vision) Sorian (Vision) Blaze (Vision) Sweetie Drops Minuette Derpy Hooves Apple Bloom Pinkie Pie Rarity Princess Celestia (Vision) Prince Blue Blood (Vision) Angel Bunny Fluttershy Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Golden Harvest Cherry Berry Amethyst Star Twinkleshine Lemon Hearts Drizzle Daisy Shoeshine Armin Arlert (Flashback) Episode 9: Applebuck Season: Gala arc Part 2It was a bright and early moring at Sweet Apple Acres, as Applejack and her older brother Big Macintosh looked over their apple orchrd. Applejack was exicted because it was time to buck the apples out of the trees. "Boy howdy! I got my work cut out for me. That there is the biggest bumper crop o' apples I ever laid eyes on". Big Mac however looked on in concern. He wasn't exactly sure if Applejack could handle the hole thing on her own. "Eeyup. Too big for you to handle on your own". Despite wanting to help his little sister, Big Mac couldn't since he had been injured eairler that week. Applejack however gave him a reassuring smile. "Come on, big brother! You need to rest up and get yourself better. I haven't met an apple orchard yet that I can't handle". She said acidendltly hitting his injury, causing him to grunt in pain. "Oops, sorry. I'll take a bite out of this job by day's end". Big Mac just rolled his eyes at Applejack. "Biting off more than you can chew is just what I'm afraid of". Applejack took offense to this, she saw it as her big brother not trusting her. "Are you sayin' my mouth is makin' promises my legs can't keep"? "Eeyup", Big Mac responded. This cause Applejack to recoil back in shock. "Why of all the... This is your sister Applejack, remember? The loyalest of friends and the most dependable of ponies"? Her brother however would not budge from his opinion. "But still only one pony, and one pony plus hundreds o' apple trees just doesn't add up to"... Applejack intterupted him before he could finish. "Don't you use your fancy mathematics to muddy the issue! I said I could handle this harvest and I'm gonna prove it to you. I'm gonna get every last apple out of those trees this applebuck season all by myself" Applejack walked over to the first tree, and got ready to start her mission. She had full intentions on proving to Big Mac that she could handle this all on her own. "Well I better get kickin'. These apples aren't gonna shake themselves outta the trees". (ətˈæk 0N tάɪtn plays) Before she could start though, an apple fell out of the tree and clocked her on the head. "Hey"! Applejack then felt the ground shaking, and she realized what was happening "Oh no"! Applejack ran to her backyard and called out for her dog "Winona! Come here girl"! Applejack's dog came up to her in a flash, "Alright girl, we gotta big problem heading for town, now are ya'll ready to help me". Winona barked in response, and the two of them headed stright for the town. In ponyville Rainbow Dash flew up into the sky when she felt the shaking, and noticed a cloud of dust getting closer and closer "STAMPEDE"! She shouted. Soon everypony was panicing, and running for cover, Pinkie Pie however was giggling because since the ground was shaking it also made her voice shake as well. "Hey! Ttttthis mmmakes mmy vvoice sssound ssssilly" "Pinkie Pie, are you crazy!? Run"! Twilight called out Fournetnly Bertholdt grabbed Pinkie by her tail and pulled her to saftey. The mayor was standing in the middle of the town trying to keep things in order "Everypony calm down. There is no need to panic". "But Mayor, whatever shall we do"? asked Rarity Reiner then spoke up. "The Mayor's right, we need to remain calm". It was then Rainbow Dash noticed something. "Look There"! Soon they we're all looking, and saw Applejack and Winona rounding up the stampeding cows. They all started to cheer for the farm pony. "YEEHAW! Move aside, Winona. Put 'em up, girl"! Winona obeyed and moved over to the left side of the herd. All of the ponies we're watching in suspense. "This is the best rodeo show I've ever seen". stated Pinkie Pie. Applejack ran up to the side of the cows and tried to get them to turn. "Come on, little dogies! Turn"! She then called out for Winona "Winona, put 'em up"! Finally Applejack was able to get to the lead cow, and stop her, which then caused all the other cows to stop as well. "Atta girl! Yeehaw"! Applejack then went up to her friend Daisyjo in order to get an exclimation for what just happend. "Whoaaa. Hooie. Now what was that all about"? Daisy Jo looked over at Applejack, and began to explain "Oh my! Begging your pardon, Applejack, but Moo-riella here saw one of those nasty snakes". The other cows began to panic, but Daisy Jo manged to keep them calm before contuing "And it just gave us all the willies, don'tcha know". Applejack smiled at Daisy Jo "I completely understand. Just next time, try and steer clear of Ponyville". Daisy Jo Smiled at her friend. "We certainly will, Applejack. So long, Winona"! As the herd left, Applejack walked over the hill, and the citzens all cheered for her. "That was incredible"! Cried Bertholdt. "YEE HAW!" Shouted Applejack. "Yee haw! Ride 'em, cowpony"! Mayor Mare couldn't help but smile at what just transpired. "Applejack was just... just" She was having trouble finding the right word to say. Fourtently Pinke Pie was there to fill in the Mayor's blank. "Appletastic"! That garnerd a smile from The Mayor. Exactly. We must do something to thank Applejack for single-hoofedly saving the town. "I know"! Said Pinkie Pie. "A Party"! A week Later Twilight looked around the center, and was widley impressed with the turn out. "We all ready"? "Just one last thing". Rarity called out, as she put up the banner. "Now we're ready". Reiner walked up next to Twilight with a small smile on his face. "I must say, I'm extreamly impressed with how things turned out. Now we just have to make sure Applejack's all set. Now where is she". Rainbow Dash flew over to them. "Actually, I haven't seen her all week, what about you Bertholdt"? "Sorry, I haven't either". The pegaus stalion said. "Not since the Stampede", repiled Pinkie Pie. "But she'll be here for sure, Applejack's never late". Rainbow Dash reaasured everyone. Soon everything was set up for the party. Twilight walked up to the podium near the town whole. She had prepared a nice speech for her Applejack, and was super exicted to share it with everyone. "Welcome, everypony! Today we are here to honor a pony we can always count on to help in matters great and small. A pony whose contributions to--" Twilight was however intterupted by Rainbow Dash. "Did you see Applejack's slick moves out there? What an athlete. This week she's gonna help me with my new flying trick, and I know it's gonna be so awesome." Twilight smiled and tried to finish what she was saying "Exactly! And...." But she was interuptted once again. This time by Pinkie Pie "This week, I get to run Sugarcube Corner for the first time". This garnerd confusion from the crowd. What does that have to do with Applejack? asked Reiner. Pinkie Pie smiled, and proceeded to explain. "Oh. Applejack, one of the best bakers ever, is gonna help me. Applejack makes everything great, so free samples for everypony"! The crowd cheered at that statment Twilight proceeded to push Pinkie out of the way so she could finally contiue her speech. "Oh-kay, that's great. Now if I could just make a point without being inter--" But then, Fluttershy spoke up. "Twilight." " rupted". Fluttershy went up to the purple unicorn, and gave her a small smile before speaking. "Twilight, I'm so sorry, but I just wanted to mention that Applejack is also helping me this week with the official bunny census, where we count up all the new baby bunnies that were born this season. She's gonna help gather them using her wonderful herding skills". After saying what she wanted to say Fluttershy walked off the stage, and stood next to Bertholdt. Twilight looked around, she wanted to make sure no one else had anything to say "Anyone else, anyone? No? Good! Well then, as I was trying to say..." But once again, Twilight couldn't finish as she saw the mayor giving her a huge smile. "Ugh! Forget it"!. Twilight left the stage in frustration and stood next to Reiner. "Sorry you couldn't complete your speech Twi". "It's not your fault Reiner, I just wish I could have let everyone know how much I apprecated Applejack. She was after all, the first pony I met when Spike, and I came to Ponyville". "Wait I thought I was the first pony you met"! exclaimed Pinkie Pie. "Twilight smiled at the Pink earth Pony". "Applejack was the first pony we talked to here in Ponyville. You just gasped, ran off, and through that welcome party for us". "Oh yeah". Pinkie Pie remebered. Reiner then spoke, "So Applejack's helping you bake some treats and Sugarcube Corner"? Pinkie smiled. "Yep! Both Applejack, and Apple Bloom are some of the best bakers in town". Twilight looked at Pinkie in awe. "Really? Apple Bloom can bake too"? Pinkie kept smilling and spoke again. "Oh yes! Apple Bloom makes the best brownies! You have not lived until you've tried them" "Ah hem"! The three of them we're silenced by the Mayor who was now getting ready to finally present Applejack with her award. "And so, with no further ado, it is my privilege to give the prize, Pony of Ponyville Award, to our beloved guest of honor, a pony of the utmost trustworthiness, reliability, and integrity. Ponyville's most capable and dependable friend: Applejack"! The crowd cheered and stamped their hooves, but the cheering soon came to a stop when they noticed that the farm pony wasn't there. " Cool! Way to go Applejack, that was awesome"! Spike kept on cheering, until he realized what was happening "I mean-- heh" The mayor too was confused by the turn of events. "Ah hem". "Awkward". Spike whispered. But soon, Applejack arrived "I'm here, I'm here she yawned as she walked up to the stage". "Sorry I'm late--whoa--I was just..." She stoped when she stepped on someone's tail. "whoa... Did I get your tail"? She finally made it up to the podium and looked at the trophy. "Miss Mayor. Thank you kindly for this here... award thingy". She looked at her reflection in the trophy and smiled. "It's so bright and shiny and, heh, heh heh, I sure do look funny heh. Ooo-ooo". Soon both Applejack, and Pinkie Pie we're looking at themselves in the trophy, and making silly faces while Twilight looked at them in confusion. "Okay. Well, thank you Applejack for saving us from that scary stampede, and always being there for everypony". Applejack looked up at Twilight with tired eyes, and yawned before replying. "Yeah. I like helping the ponyfolks and". She yawned again. "And Stuff". Applejack then fell asleep for a few seconds before jolting herself awake. "Oh, uh, yeah. Uh, Thanks". And with that, Applejack took her award, and left the party, while everyone looked at her in confusion. Reiner was the first to speak up. "Was it just me, or did Applejack seem a little--" "Tired"? asked Rainbow Dash. "Dizzy"? Suggested Fluttershy. "Messy"? Stated Rarity, which got her several weird looks. "Well, did you see her mane"? Pinkie Pie however was obilousy to the whole thing. "She seemed fine to me". Twilight grew concerned for the orange Earth Pony. She wanted to know what was wrong, and if there was anything she could do to help. She looked up to the two ponies she felt she could trust the most. "Reiner, Bertholdt. I'm don't think Applejack's ok". Reiner looked down at Twilight. "I think you're right. We'd better go check on her". So the three of them, traveled all the way to Sweet Apple Acres. When they arrived, they saw Applejack, standing under a tree trying to buck it, but they noticed that she was having trouble staying awake, since she wasn't catching the Apples. The three ponies looked at each other. "What on Earth is that Pony doing"? asked Bertholdt. "I'm not sure". Replied Reiner Applejack once again bucked the tree only to miss the Apples, and have them splatter all over the ground. "Whoops". Soon the farmgirl had fallen asleep, as Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt walked up to her. When the got up there Twilight tried to get Applejack's attention "Hey Applejack". But Applejack didn't here her. "APPLEJACK"! Twilight shouted whiched caused Applejack to wake up. "Huh! Oh, Howady Twilight, Bertholdt, Reiner". Reiner looked around in confusion. "What is all this"? "It's Applebuck Season". Applejack Replied. "Applewhat season"? Asked Twilight. Applejack hoisted the baskest onto her back as she began to explain. " Neh, It's what the Apple family calls harvestin' time. We gather all the apples from the trees so we can sell 'em". "But why are you doing it all by yourself"? asked Bertholdt. "Cause Big Mac hurt himself". Twilight meanwhile was looking around the orchard, and noticed that Applejack was the only pony there, which prompt her to ask her next question. "What about all those relatives I've met when I first came to Ponyville? Can't they help"? But Applejack was quick to answer Twilight's question. "They were just here for the Apple family reunion. They actually live all over Equestria and are busy harvestin' their own orchards. So, uh, I'm on my own". Applejack began to walk away in order to contiue her work. "Which means I should really get back to work". Applejack stopped when she saw the three ponies standing infront of her. "Ahem, hint, hint. Get back to work". "Fine", Twilight replied as she, Reiner, and Bertholdt moved out of Applejack's way, however, because she was clearly tired, Applejack assumed they we're still infront of her. "Could you three step aside". "We, just did". Reiner told her, but all three of them kept looking at Applejack in concern. Now it was Bertholdt who spoke up "Applejack. You don't look so good". But Applejack simply smiled grogloy at him. She was so out of it, that she began to see tripple. "Oh don't the nine of you worry none, I'm just fine and dandy". Applejack said before tripping. Reiner, Bertholdt, and Twilight still weren't convinced that she was alright however. "Do you... want some help"? Reiner asked. Applejack shot up almost instantly after hearing that, a look of annoyance plastered on her face. "Help? No way, no how". This shocked the other three. "But there's no way you can do it all on your own". Bertholdt stated. Applejack shot the pegaus stalion a glare after he said that. "Is that a challenge"? "Uhm..... No"? Bertholdt responded Applejack frowned before turning away. "Well, I'm gonna prove to you that I can do it! Now if you'll excuse me , I've got apples to buck". And with that Applejack left the three ponies to contiue her work. As they walked Twilight spoke up. "I can't belive she would refuse help when she clearly needs it". Reiner nodded in aggreement. "You're right Twilight, but that's how Applejack is, once she sets her mind on something, she's going to do it no matter what any us say". Twilight sighed in defeat. "I suppose you're right, I just wish she wasn't so stuborn". "Yeah I agree said Bertholdt, and with that, the three ponies left Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack Smiled as she saw them go. Good, now that they're gone, I can finally" She yawned "Start". She yawned again. "Finishing, my work". She fell asleep. It had been a few hours since Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt left, and Applejack was still sound asleep under the tree when she felt something wet touch her face. Applejack grogoly woke up to her dog licking her. "Winona stop, it's too early for this". She yawned "After all, it's only high noon". Applejack's eyes then suddendly shot open when she realized what time it was. "Wait high noon! Oh no! I'm suppose to be helping Rainbow with something right now". Applejack ran all the way to Ponyville, and found Rainbow Dash standing in the middle of town next to some strange contraption. Rainbow looked at Applejack in annoyance. "There you are". Applejack trotted up to Rainbow Dash, and yawned, before apolgying. "I'm a mite sorry, Rainbow. I was busy applebuckin' and I guess ah, I closed my eyes for a second and, when I woke up, I was late. Now, what's this new trick a' yours"? Dash smiled, and showed Applejack her contraption. "See this contraption"? Applejack looked at it in confusion. "Uh.... Yeah". Rainbow Dash then walked over to a catapult and began to explain her plan. "Well, I'm gonna stand on one end, then you're gonna jump down from that platform, launching me into the air faster than I can take off on my own. Once I'm in the air, I'm gonna do some amazing flips and spins that are sure to impress the Wonderbolts". Applejack gave Rainbow Dash a look of both concern, and confusion. "Isn't that a mite dangerous"? Rainbow Dash scoffted at AJ's concern. Pfft, Heh, not for a pony who can Fly. Applejack sighed in defeat and agreed to do what Dash was asking. "Well, all right-y then". Applejack proceeded to climb to the top of the board she was ment to jump off of. "Oh my". Applejack stated as she looked down. Rainbow Dash set herself up on her end and called up to Applejack. "Ready? One... two... THREE"! Applejack jumped off the board but missed the target, insted landing on the ground with a hard thud. Rainbow Dash stepped off her end and walked over to Applejack. "Umm... maybe I wasn't clear. You're supposed to land on the other end". Applejack got up and looked at Rainbow Dash. "Got it"! Applejack went up to try again, and again, and again. Missing each time, causing Rainbow Dash to grow more and more frustrated. "Applejack, what the hay is going on? I mean, I thought I was working with Ponyville's best athlete"! Applejack tried to reassure Dash that everything would work out. "You are! I'm okay. Really. I-I have an idea. Watch this". Applejack proceeded to use all of her stregenth to push her end down, causing Rainbow Dash's end to be slightly lifted off the ground. "Ta Da"! Applejack for a brief moment was proud of herself. Until she saw Rainbow's unammused face. Applejack chuckled nervously. "Oh... Maybe not. Okay, one more try. I'm sure to get it this time". Applejack stepped off her end, causing Rainbow's end to come down hard, temporarliy dissorienting the pegasus pony. Applejack meanwhile had made back to the top of the board. She waited until she could see her end clearly. "Heh heh... Here I go"! Applejack then leaped off the board just as RD manged to regain herself. Unfourntently now, Rainbow Dash was not ready, and desperartley tried to stop AJ. "Wait"! But it was too late. Applejack finally landed on her end, and sent Rainbow Dash flying through the air screaming. "Applejaaaaack"! Applejack just smiled. "You're Welcome". Currently Publicly Available Information Applebuck Season. The Apple family's harvesting season. It involves bucking ever single apple tree in the orchard. A job that requires more then one pony to do. Reiner stepped outside of his and Bertholdt's house, and looked around. He took in the air, but he was also thinking. Why does Applejack want to buck her orchard all by herself? Can't she see that she needs help? Reiner was taken out of his thoughts when he heard a loud crash to his right. He turned to see Rainbow Dash in a tree near the house looking very dissorianted. "Can I help you? asked Reiner" Rainbow Dash shook her head before speaking "I think somepony else needs your help". "Applejack"? Reiner asked. "Yep". Dash confirmed. Reiner sighed, and began to walk to Sweet Apple Acres At the farm, Applejack bucked another tree, and one of the apples landed on her head causing her to grunt in frustration "Ow"! She kept bucking, just as Reiner walked up to her. "Applejack can we talk"? Aj didn't her him, so he tried again. "Applejack can we talk"? Applejack looked up at Reiner in confusion. "Can bees squawk? I don't think so". "No. Can we talk"? Applejack still couldn't understand him. "Twenty Stalks? Bean or Celery". Reiner again tried to get Applejack to understand him No! I need to talk to you! But she still couldn't make out what Reiner was saying "You need to walk to the zoo? Well, who's stoppin ya" Reiner was growing more impatient. "I need to talk to you"! Finally Applejack understood what Reiner was saying. "Oh! Well why didn't you say so? What is it you wanna talk about". Rainbow Dash dropped by my place today. Reiner told Applejack. "Oh, well that was nice of her". AJ replied. "Yes, but she crashed into a tree near my house, after you sent her flying through the air"! Applejack looked at Reiner in confusion before suddendly remebering. "Oh, yeah. I wasn't feeling quite myself this afternoon". "Yes, because you need help"! Reiner said, but once again Applejack couldn't understand him, "What? Kelp? I don't need kelp. I don't even like seaweed". "HELP! YOU NEED HELP"! Reiner shouted in Applejack's ear. Applejack was appaled at what Reiner had just told her. "Nothin' doin', Reiner. I'm gonna prove to you, t' everypony, that I can do this, by myself! Now if you'll excuse me, I need to help Pinkie Pie"! Reiner sighed as he watched Applejack leave. "For her sake, I hope someone will make her realize she can't do this alone". At Sugarcube Corner, Mr. and Mrs. Cake we're getting ready to leave Pinkie in charge while they we're getting ready to leave for the afternoon. Mrs. Cake then looked at Pinkie wanting to make sure the young earth pony really could handle things on her own. "Now Pinkie Pie, are you sure you're up for baking the muffins and running the store this afternoon"? Pinkie Pie smiled just as Applejack walked in. " Yes siree bob, Mrs. Cake. Plus, I have Ponyville's prized pony to help me out. Why, she's one of the best bakers ever! Right, Applejack"? "No". Applejack responeded tiredly confusing Mr. Cake. "No? You're not one of the best bakers ever"? Applejack shot up and quickly corrected herself. "WHAT? Oh no! I mean, don't you fret. I can bake anything from fritters to pies in the blink of an eye". Mrs. Cake sighed in relief. "All right. Well, see you later, girls"! And with that, she and Mr. Cake left the shop. However, now Applejack wasn't so sure she could do this, but Pinkie was oblivous to the farm pony's state of mind, and told her to get ready. "Stop with the shakin', it's time to get bakin". Once the two of them were in the kitchen Pinkie Pie began to gave Applejack instructions on what they needed in order to bake the muffins. "All right-y! I'll get the sugar and the eggs. Can you get me some chocolate chips"? Applejack couldn't undestand what Pinkie had asked her, so she asked the pink earth pony to repeat herself. "Eh, uh, whu, what was that"? So Pinkie once again told AJ what she wanted "Chocolate Chips". Applejack however only heard chips. "Chips...... Got it". Applejack walked over to the cupbord pulled out a bag of potato chips, and placed them into the bowl. "Tater chips, a little salty and dry, okie-dokie. What next"? Pinkie Pie, who was completely oblivous to what Applejack had done contiued. "Baking Soda". But once again, Applejack only heard Pinkie Pie say Soda. So she went over and got out a big litter of soda. "Soda". Applejack poured the Soda into the bowl. " Perfect. That'll get the tater chips nice and wet. Now what". Pinkie, still not noitcing what Applejack had done smiled and said. "A cup of Flour". But Applejack thought she said Sour. "A cup o' sour? Well, lemons are sure sour". So Applejack got a bunch of lemons and began to squeeze their juices into the mix. "One cup o' sour, comin' up. Anything else, Pinkie"? "One last thing. Wheat germ". Applejack however once again mistook Pinkie's words, and thought she said worms, insted of germs. "Wheat worms? Oh, that must be fancy talk for earthworms". So Applejack went outside, dug up a bunch of earthworms, and put them into the bowl. Pinkie Pie, not even noitcing the very obiovous worms, took the mix, and put it in the oven. "Now that's gonna be delicous"! "If you say so", answered an unsure Applejack. About an hour later, the muffins we're done, and soon there were a bunch ponies in Sugarcube Corner, ready to sample some. "Free muffin sample spectacular"! Pinkie Pie announced! The ponies we're very exicited and went over to grab some muffins as Applejack tiredly encourged them to grab some. "Yeah! Muffin spectacles! Get 'em while they're hot". A soon everyone had a muffin Applejack smiled and looked at Pinkie Pie. "Well Pinkie, I best be getting back, I've got a lot more trees to buck". "Ookie Dookie Lookie Applejack, thanks for your help". As soon as Applejack left Pinkie Pie grabbed a muffin for herself, and gobbled it down. After a few minutes the ponies started to feel funny. Pinkie Pie thought it was nothing at first, but about fiffteen minutes later, she and the other ponies would find themselves in huge trouble. Twilight, and Spike rushed to ponyville's urgent care once they got news of what had transpired at Sugarcube Corner. "We came as soon as we heard"! Nurse Redheart came up to The two of them. "Oh, thank you Twilight, we need all the help we can get". Twilight looked around, and saw a bunch of sick ponies, with nurses trying to care for them. Even Apple Bloom was there, giving soup to a sick stalion. "What happend"? asked Twilight Apple Bloom looked over at Twilight, and Spike, and began to exlplain. "It was a mishap with some of the baked goods". "No' Pinkie Pie responed "Not baked goods. Baked bads". Apple Bloom walked up to Twilight. "When I saw what was happening here, I came over and offered to help the best I could". All of a sudden Apple Bloom, and Twilight heard a little filly crying, and screaming, as her mother was trying to comfort her. "OW! MAMA IT HURTS"! The filly was crying so loud, it broke Twilight's heart. She then noticed Apple Bloom walking towards them, and began to hum a soft song for the filly. The filly stopped crying, and smiled at Apple Bloom, the mother smiled at her as well. "Bless your heart Apple Bloom". Twilight and Spike couldn't help but smile, both of them thinking the same thing, though Spike was the first to say it. "That filly is an angel". Twilight however shook her head. "No Spike. Apple Bloom. Is a Goddess. Anyways I need to go check on Applejack, are you all good here". Apple Bloom nodded. "Yeah. Please go help my sister". "I intend too". With that Twilight Left. Meanwhile, Spike had found one of the nasty muffins, and decieded to try it. To his suprise he found it delicous. "Want one", he asked Apple Bloom, only for the filly to give him a disgusted look. Twilight returned to Sweet Apple Acres, and found Applejack under sleep bucking it, Twilight walked up to her friend. "What? Huh"? Applejack mumbled to herself as Twilight came up to her. "Applejack, we have to talk". Applejack took a little bit to noticed Twilight infront of her. "Wha, huh? Oh, it's you, Twilight". She yawned before begining to walk away. "I know what you're gonna say, but the answer is still no"! Twilight however knew Applejack was wrong. "Not to upset your applecart, but you need help". But Applejack refused to listen to Twilight. "Hardy har, No I don't! she said as she fell over". Twilight tried to offer Applejack assiastants. "Here let me help". But Applejack refused. "Help? No thank you Twilight, I already told Reiner that I don't need help, and I'm gonna tell you the same thing"! She began to buck a tree that was already empty. "I just need a little more time, and I'll prove to you I can get all these Apples". Twilight noitcing that Applejack was bucking an empty tree quickly pointed it out to her friend. "Um I think your beating a dead....... tree". Applejack looked up in suprise before coposing herself. "Uh.... I knew that". Applejack began to walk away with Twilight following "Actually, Applejack, I had something else to talk to you about. I just came back from Ponyville Urgent Care and--" But Applejack interuptted Twilight. "Look Twilight, I don't need you lecturing me right now, I'm very busy with". "Your little sister was there"! Twilight intterupted Applejack looked at Twilight. "Why was Apple Bloom there"? "She was helping the nurses with the sick ponies". Applejack smiled. "Yep, that was defiently Apple Bloom, always thinking of others before herself. Ya'll know she's referred to as the Apple Family Goddes". Twilight gave a small smile of her own, remebering how Apple Bloom calmed down that crying filly "I can belive that". she said to herself. Twilight looked back at Applejack. "And that's another reason why I'm here, because Apple Bloom asked me to come. She practiley begged for me to help you! So why? Why the hell can't you tell that your friends, and your family are worried about you Applejack"! Applejack just frowned. "No Twilight, I don't need help from anypony". With that, Applejack left Twilight, who side in frustration. "Ugh! That pony is as stubborn as a mule"! Twilight then noticed a random mule standing next to her. "No offense". "None taken". Said the mule. A few hours after the incident with the muffins Applejack was now helping Fluttershy with the newborn baby bunnies like she had promised, however this time Applejack wasn't too thrilled with the idea. She wanted to get this done as quick as she could so she could get back to the farm, and finish Apple bucking. Fluttershy meanwhile was extreamley greatful for Applejack's help. "Oh Applejack! Thank you so much for offering your herding skills for the annual rabbit roundup". Applejack just groaned in response. "Ugh! Why are we doing this again"? Fluttershy taking no notice to Applejack's complaint just smiled, and explained the situation. " Well, lots of new baby bunnies have been born, so it's my job to get a count of all the new families". Applejack sighed "Fine! Let's just get it over with." Fluttershy smiled at Applejack. "Of course, but remember, this are bunnies we're dealing with not cows, so they need to be treated gentely, and with care". Applejack was in no mood to listen to Fluttershy however. "I do NOT need you telling me how to round up critters, right Winona"? Winona barked in response. Fluttershy walked up to a group of bunnies and began to softly direct them into the center. "Okay, little bunnies! I need you to all gather here in the middle". Applejack however stomped infront of the bunnies and began demanding for them to move. "That's right! Let's go, bunnies. In the center. Hop to it"! The furry in Applejack's voice scared the bunnies, and they started running making Applejack even more frustrated! "Swell! Just swell"! She and Winona gave chase to the bunnies! "Put em up Winona"! Fluttershy followed after them, and despertely tried to get Applejack and Winona to stop. "Wait! Applejack, Winona please stop! You're scaring them". Applejack refeused to hear Fluttershy out, and contiued to chase the bunnies. "We know what we're doing Fluttershy! Get along little bunnies". Soon Applejack, and Winona had the bunnies cornerd in the center, and were both staring intensely at them. Fluttershy knew what was about to happen next, and could only mumble out two words. "Oh no". Sure enough the bunnies got so scared, and began to run right in the direction of Ponyville. Fluttershy looked on in shock as Applejack and Winona simply left her to deal with the problem herself. Fluttershy tried to call out to Applejack. "Wait! aren't you gonna he"l- But Applejack ignored her and left. Fluttershy sighed and began to follow after the bunnies hoping she could stop them. Back in Ponyville, Rainbow Dash flew up into the air, and noticed the dust cloud coming she knew what was next. "STAMPEDE"! (XLTT Plays) Once again everypony began to run for cover, but unlike last time, Applejack didn't come to stop the stampede, and the bunnies ran through Ponyville as the citzens could only watch on. Fluttershy quickly arrived only to find that she was to late to stop the bunnies, she quickly went into the town and tried to gather them up. Twenty Mintues Eailer. Twilight was on her way back to the urgent care tent to see how things we're going. As she was walking she heard someone call out to her "Twilight"! Twilight turned around to see Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover walking up to her. "Where are you going? Asked Bertholdt" Twilight smiled before replying. "Oh hey you guys, I'm just heading to urgent care, there was a problem with the muffins that Applejack helped Pinkie Pie bake". Reiner sighed "Yeah, I figured something like that would have happened". Twilight looked up at him. "I heard what happened with Rainbow Dash. I guess you also tried to tell Applejack she needed help"? "I did". Reiner responed. The three of them arrived back at the urgent care tent, and we're pleased to see everyone was looking a lot better, Pinkie Pie was back to her bubbly self. Apple Bloom was still there, and once she saw them she quickly ran up to the three of them. "Twilight! Did Applejack accept your help? Oh please say she did". Twilight look down. "I'm sorry Apple Bloom, but Applejack just won't listen to reason, I can't understand why she's so stubborn". Apple Bloom looked down. "She gets that from my father, he was sturbon too. But daddy knew when to ask for help when he needed it! I remember him always telling me to always think of what others would want, and how it would effect them. That's why I try hard to help out whenever I can. It's part of the reason I helped out here". Reiner looked at Apple Bloom, "Hmmm Maybe if all four of us talk to Applejack together, we can convice her that she needs help". Twilight smiled at the unicorn. "That's a great idea Reiner, what do say Apple Bloom, do you wanna help your sister"? Apple Bloom smiled "Yes of Course"! With that, the four ponies left the tent in order to head to Sweet Apple Acres Twilight, Reiner, Apple Bloom, and Bertholdt were walking through Ponyville when they say the three flower ponies Rose, Lilly, and Daisy sprawled out on the ground in obivious distress. They then each began to speak "The horror, the horror". Said Rose. "It was awful" replied Lily. "A disaster, a complte disaster"! Stated Daisy. Twilight, Reiner, Apple Bloom. and Bertholdt stared at each other confused. The three ponies then began to relay the reason why they we're so upset. "Our gardens, destroyed". said Lily. "Every last flower, devoured". responed Rose. "By... by... THEM"! said Daisy. Twilight, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt looked to where Daisy was pointed, and saw the bunnies, along with Fluttershy trying to round them up. "Oh my. Oh... Please stop, little bunnies. Oh no! Please, let's go home. Oh my goodness". Twilight's eyes filled with rage at seeing this. "Alright. Enough, is Enough". The four ponies arrived at Applejack and saw her once again under a tree. "Must...... Keep...... Bucking...... Must finish...... harvest". Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt walked up to Applejack. Twilight being the first to speak to AJ. "All right, Applejack. Your applebucking hasn't just caused you problems, it's over-propelled Pegasus', practically poisoned plenty of ponies, and terrorized bushels of brand new bouncing baby bunnies. I don't care what you say, you need help"! Reiner then spoke. "Twilight's right Applejack, you need help". But Applejack just kicked the tree, until all the apples fell off. She then gave the three of them a smug look "Ha! No I don't. See", Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt looked around to see all the apple trees where empty "I did it. I harvested the entire Sweet Apple Acres without your help. How d'ya like them apples"? However, Big Mac came up to Applejack and pointed out a bunch more trees on the other side of the farm that still had plenty of apples on them "Um... How do you like them Apples". Applejack noticed them and was compltely shocked to the point she fainted. "Applejack? Applejack"? Applejack opened her eyes to see Twilight standing over her. "Oh good, your ok". Said Twilight. Applejack stood up, "Alright Twilight, thank you for your concern, but I need to get to bucking thoes other trees". Twilight was about to speak, but Applejack intterupted her. "Without Your Help"! Twilght Gasped. "But Applejack"! Applejack intterupted Twilight Again. "No buts Twilight! I don't need your hel-" (Heartbeat Plays) "APPLEJACK"! Applejack, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt looked over to see Apple Bloom, who had finally decieded to speak. Applejack looked at her little sister and was about to speak. "AB sugarcube" But Apple Bloom intterupted her sister. "No! Listen! You need help, you keep saying you don't but you do! Applejack you're working yourself to exhaustion! Please Applejack, Let Twilight and your friends help you! Please do it. For Me"! Apple Bloom had tears streaming down her face, as she spoke to her big sister, and Applejack could only stare at Apple Bloom in shock. It was then Reiner decieded to speak up. "Applejack, We completely respect the Apple family ways. You're always there to help anypony in need, so maybe you can put a little of your stubborn pride aside and allow your friends to help you". Applejack looked down and spoke. "Okay Reiner". "We're not Taking no for ansewer" Reiner said, before realizing what Applejack had said. "Wait what"? Applejack contiued. "Yes you guys. Please I could really use your help". Reiner, chuckled. Soon enough, Twilight, Bertholdt, Reiner, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Spike, and Rainbow Dash we're all helping Applejack with the harvest during the time Twilight was realying the letter she sent to Princess Celestia. Dear Princess Celestia, My friend Applejack is the best friend a pony could ever have, and she's always there to help anypony. The only trouble is, when she needs help, she finds it hard to accept it, so while friendship is about giving of ourselves to friends, it's also about accepting what our friends have to offer. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle Applejack came out of the farm with bottles of Apple Juice for them all. "How about y'all take a little break? I got some fine apple juice waitin' for ya"! The other ponies walked up to Applejack to take their juice. Applejack took this time to thank them for their help "I can't thank you enough for this help. I was acting a bit stubborn". "A bit"?! Retorted Bertholdt. Applejack chuckled at him. "Okay. A mite stubborn, and I'm awful sorry. Now, I know the town gave me the Prized Pony award, but the real award is having you seven as my friends". They all laughed afterwards. Dash then spoke up. "All this harvesting is making me hungry". Spike then walked up smelling something delicous. "What's that smell". he asked Apple Bloom then walked out of the house with a tray filled with brownies, "Don't worry" she said. "I've got the perfect treat". "Oooh Apple Bloom I've always loved your brownies", Said Pinkie Pie. "Thank you Pinkie", said Apple Bloom. She then looked at Twilight, Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt, and gave each of them a brownie. "Here you are. Allow me to put a magical spell on them. Abracadabra become delicous". Apple Bloom poured choclote cream on each brownie, and each pony ate one. Twilight gasped in shock. "Apple Bloom these are delicous, I can't belive you made them all by yourself". "Oh thank you Twilight". Applejack then spoke up. "Thank you, Apple Bloom. You we're the one who made me realize that I needed help. If you hadn't yelled at me the way you did, I won't have figured that out". Everyone laughed after that. Preview Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash spend their time pranking their friends, but when an old friend of Rainbow Dash comes to visit, Pinkie Pie knows, trouble is a foot. Next Episode. Griffion the Brush Off. Author's Note Characters in order of apperance Applejack Big Macintosh Rainbow Dash Sweetie Drops Berry Punch Shoeshine Pinkie Pie Twilight Sparkle Bertholdt Hoover Mayor Mare Rarity Reiner Braun Daisy Joe Mooriella Fluttershy Spike Mrs. Cake Mr. Cake Lyra Heartstrings Derpy Hooves Minuette Ellie Redheart Apple Bloom Lilly Valley Rose Daisy Episode 10: Griffion the Brush off: Gala arc Part 3The sun shone brightly over the nature park in Ponyville. There, Pinkie Pie was talking about how awesome she thought Rainbow Dash was. "Hoof-biting action overload! She was like a stunt superstar, flying higher and higher, and then Rainbow Dash swooped down—swoosh—and right before she hit the ground—shoom, she pulled up—vrrrmmm"! Twilight Sparkle, who was sitting on a bench reading book simply nodded as Pinkie Pie contiued. "And then she looped around and around like whoo whoo whoo whoo whoo whoo whoo"! Twilight again, just nodded in response. She just wanted to read her book in private, when Pinkie Pie came out of know where, and began telling Twilight everything about Rainbow Dash. Fourtently for Twilight Pinkie Pie looked up, and noticed Rainbow Dash flying in the air, and began to follow the cyan pegaus. Twilighy sighed in relief seeing Pinkie leave. Rainbow flew through the air, enjoying the view until she heard an all too familar, and somewhat annoying voice. "RAINBOW DASH"! Dash looked down, and saw Pinkie Pie following her, again. She groaned in frustration. "Ugh, Pinkie Pie. Not Again". Rainbow began to fly faster. Pinkie Pie saw this, and began running faster calling out to the pegaus "Rainbow Dash"! "Not now Pinkie Pie". "But Dash"! "I'm busy"! "But Rainbow Dash"! "I said not Now", But before Dash could complte her sentence, she flew face first into a mountain. Pinkie Pie trotted up to her. "I was going to tell you to look out for that mountain". Pinkie Pie was trotting through ponyville humming a little toon. Rainbow Dash, who was up on a cloud trying to sleep plugged her ears, but then she heard Pinkie Pie say something that made her groan in frustration. Pinkie Pie walked up to three ponies near a cart, and began speaking to them. "Hi, I'm looking for Rainbow Dash. Have you seen her"? The ponies shook their heads so Pinkie Pie went to another group of ponies. "Hi there, have you seen Rainbow Dash"? They also said no. Pinkie Pie then noticed Bertholdt Hoover coming out of a shop, so she decieded to ask him. "Bertholdt, have you seen Rainbow Dash anywhere"? Bertholdt looked up, and Saw Dash on a cloud right above them. "Yeah. She's right up there". Pinkie Pie looked up, and Saw Rainbow Dash, and called out to her. "Rainbow Dash"! Rainbow Dash groaned in frustration, and flew quickly away, Pinkie Pie Hoping after her. Rainbow Dash flew all the way to Sweet Apple Acres, and hid beside the barn. Thinking she was safe Dash sighed in reflief. That was until she turned around, and saw Pinkie standing right there with a huge smilie on her face. "Hi"! Dash quickly shot off in the opposite direction, Pinkie Pie again hoping behind her. Rainbow Dash flew all the way into the leaves of Twilight Sparkle's house. Once again Pinkie Pie had manged to catch up with her. "Hi Agian". Rainbow Dash flew off again, eventually she flew down by the local pound. But once again Pinkie Pie was there waiting. "I need a favor, Rainbow Dash". Rainbow Dash was about to fly away again only to deciede aganist it, knowing it was useless "Waaa— oh, forget it". Pinkie Pie smiled "I totally promise it will be super fun". Rainbow Dash sighed in defeat. "Alright". A few moments later, Pinkie Pie was having Rainbow Dash adjust a cloud infront of the post office. "Over to the right. No no, a little to the left. Oh wait, back to the right. Now a little leftish while staying rightly. Stop Hmm. Maybe a few inches to the south. Now a couple centimeters north. Okay. One more smidgimeter to the—" Rainbow Dash, who had absoutley no clue as to why Pinkie Pie wanted her to move the cloud in the first place was growing more and more impaticent. "Pinkie"! Pinkie Pie jump with a start, before decieding the cloud was perfect. "Uh, I mean, perfect. Now wait for my signal". Rainbow Dash sighed, but decieded to play along. Just to humor Pinkie Pie. After a few mintues of waiting Spike walked out of the post office with a bunch of scrolls in his hands. Once Spike was right underneth the cloud Pinkie Pie singled for Rainbow Dash to kick the cloud. Rainbow Dash did so creating a loud thunder clap which startled Spike so much he ended up getting the hiccups. Pinkie Pie began to crack up with laughter. "Oh Rainbow Dash look, we gave Spike the hiccups". Now Rainbow Dash was starting to chuckle a bit, even Spike. "Ha good one Pinkie Pie. You sure got me". One of Spike's hiccups then caused him to breath fire on his arm, as well as burn one of the scrolls. Pinkie Pie stopped laughing and became concerned. "Spike, are you ok". Spike gaving Pinkie a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. Dragons are fireproof". Spike proceeded to pick up the remaing scrolls only to hiccup again buring all of them in the process. He sighed "I wish it was the same for scrolls". Said scrolls suddendly appeared in Celestia's throne room falling on the princess head. Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash we're now both laughing histarictley. "Have you ever seen anything so funny"? asked Pinkie Pie. Rainbow Dash smirked before replying "I can think of one thing". Rainbow Dash flew back up to the cloud and kicked it creating another loud crack which ended up scaring Pinkie Pie into also getting the hiccups. Rainbow Dash smiled and flew down to Pinkie Pie. "I had no idea you we're a prankster Pinkie Pie". Pinkie Pie smiled and began to speak through her hiccups. "Are you kidding, I love to pull a good prank here and there! After all it's just in good fun, and I love to have fun"! Rainbow smiled and decieded to ask Pinkie Pie a question she thought she'd never hear herself asking the pink earth pony. "You know Pinkie Pie, you're not as annoying as I thought, you maybe wanna hang out"? Pinkie Pie became really exicted, and tried to answer, however her hiccups prevented her from saying a complte sentence, so Rainbow Dash stopped her from trying. "A simple nod would work". A little while later Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash went to a store, and bought flowers. They then put some type of powder on it, after doing that they the flowers infront of Rarity's door and waited for her to come out while hidding behind some bushes. "Is she even home"? Dash asked. "I don't know". Pinkie replied. They waited for a few more minutes until Rarity finally opened the door. Seeing the flowers she went to sniff them only the have her nose covered in the powder causing her to start sneezing uncontroblly. Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash could barley maitain their laughter. They soon contiued on the pull more pranks. Next they we're at Twilight's place. The two of them had replaced her ink with dissappearing ink, and everytime Twilight tried to write something down about her research, the words would dissapper causing her to grow more and more frustrated. After that. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie went to Sweet Apple Acres, and panited every single apple on every single tree. When Applejack walked out of her barn, she saw what happened to all of her apples. "Land sakes"! Apple Bloom heard her sister and came out to see what was wrong. "Applejack! What happened"?! Apple Bloom then noticed the apples, and gasped, they then saw Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash with paint supplies snickering. The two of them then ran off when Apple Bloom grabbed some Apples and began throwing them at the two pranksters, one landed in a barrel of water which washed the paint off of one of the apples. Seeing this, caused Applejack, and Apple Bloom to give a each other a small chuckle. Finally Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash we're at Reiner, and Bertholdt's house. Pinkie walked up to the door and rang the doorbell before running and hiding behind a bush next to Rainbow Dash. A few moments later Reiner Braun opened the door looked around, and walked back inside. Next Rainbow Dash rang the doorbell, and Reiner opened it again this time he called out. "Hello! is anyone out there"? Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash did this three more times, until finally on the fourth ring Reiner caught them. He gave the two girls a dissaproving stare. Later that day, Fluttershy was by the pound looking at the turtles living there when a certain caught her eye. Unknown to Fluttershy this wasn't a real turtle, but a toy one ment to squrit out water. Behind a bush hid Rainbow Dash watching Fluttershy through a large telescope while Pinkie Pie was standing a few feet away with the squriter in her mouth. Pinkie Pie didn't know that Fluttershy was their target so she asked Rainbow Dash who they we're pranking. "Is someone over there? Who are we gonna squrit"? Rainbow Dash snickered. "Fluttershy". However once Pinkie Pie heard who they we're pranking she gasped! "What! nononononono! We cannot prank Fluttershy I mean she's so sensitive. It'll hurt her feelings, even our most harmless prank". Rainbow Dash sighed, knowing all to well that Pinkie Pie was right. "Yeah that's true. We need another victim who's made of tougher skin". Pinkie Pie then started to Giggle. "Oh I can think of somebody. The toughest around". Dash smiled "Really who is it do I know them". Pinkie Pie then looked at her reflection in the pound, prompting Rainbow Dash to do the same. When she did she saw her left eye had an ink ring around it. Realizing what Pinkie Pie had done caused Rainbow Dash to chuckle. "Ha good one Pinkie". Rainbow Dash and Pinkie started to laugh while Fluttershy was stll staring at the fake turtle in confusion. Currently Publicly Available Information Griffin. Creatures from greek mythoghy, griffins have the head of an eagle, and the body of a lion. In Equestria they are known to be greedy and rude even to their fellow griffins The next moring Pinkie Pie was out once again heading towards Rainbow Dash's house in order to pull more Pranks with her. Arrving at Rainbow's place Pinkie called up eager for another day of fun. "Rise and shine Rainbow Dash! It's a brand new day and we got a lot of pranking". Pinkie stopped mid sentence when a strange looking creature peared at her from over the cloud. Pinkie Pie just stood there in confusion until Rainbow Dash finally came out. "Mornin Pinks". Rainbow Dash then turned to the creature and began to intrdouce the two strangers to eachother "Pinkie, this is my griffon friend, Gilda". Pinkie Pie looked at Dash in confusion. "What's a Griffion"? Dash smiled at Gilda and proceeded to answer Pinkie Pie's question. "A creature who is half eagle and half lion". Gildia then flew down to join the conversation. "Don't forget all awesome! Raa. Heh-haa. Yeah, that's right". Rainbow Dash turned back to Pinkie and said. "Gilda's my best friend from my days at Junior Speedster flight camp". She then turned to Gilda again. "You remember the chant right"? Gilda scoffed. "Of course! They made us reciet it every damn day. I'll never get it out of head". Dash looked at Gilda with pleading eyes. "Sooooo"? Gilda, knowing what Rainbow Dash wanted sighed. "Only for RD. The two of them then began to reciet the chant". [bJunior Speedsters are our lives, Sky-bound soars and daring dives Junior Speedsters, it's our quest, To someday be the very best!] Pinkie Pie clapped after the song. "Oh that was awesome, and it gave me a great idea for a prank. Gilda, you game"? Gilda would be lying if she said she wasn't a little interested. "Huh. Well, I groove on a good prank as much as the next griffon. But Dash, you promised me we'd get a flying session in this morning". Rainbow Dash looked back at Pinkie and apologized to the young earth pony. "Yeah, uh, well, Pinkie Pie, you don't mind, do you? Gilda just got here. We'll catch up with you later". Pinkie Pie looked at Dash in dissapointment, before sighing. "Oh. Um, well sure, no problem. Have fun you guys, I'll, uh, just catch up with you—" Rainbow Dash, and Gilda then flew off in the opposite direction leaving Pinkie behind. About half and hour later Rainbow Dash, and Gilda flew onto a cloud and we're laughing with each other. Gilda smiled as it reminded her of their past together. " Whoa, that was sweet. Just like old times". Rainbow Dash couldn't agree more as she smiled at her old friend. "Yeah except faster, So now what"? Gilda was about to answer when all of a sudden Pinkie Pie jumped through the cloud they we're on confusing both Gilda, and Rainbow Dash. "Hi! It's later and I caught up". Rainbow Dash and Gilda looked down and saw that Pinkie Pie was jumping on a trampoline into the cloud. Seeing this caused Rainbow Dash to chuckle. "Pinkie Pie. You are so random". Gilda however was growing more and more annoyed. She had to think of something to get rid of Pinkie Pie. Luckliy for Gilda, an Idea was quickly able to pop into her head. "Hey Dash, think you got enough gas left to beat me to that cloud"? Rainbow looked over to where Gilda was pointing and smiled. "A race? You are so on". Gilda smiled back and began to count down. "Okay, three, two, one, Go"! The two of them flew off again leaving Pinkie behind! "Hey"! Rainbow Dash, and Gilda both made it the cloud close to around the same time making them both belive that the other had won. "I win"! Stated Dash, "No way". Gilda responed. "I won". The two of them began to argue about who had actually won their race when Pinkie Pie caught up with them again this time floating on some ballond "Wow guys, that was really close, but I think Rainbow Dash beat you by a teeny weeny itty bitty hair, or a teeny weeny itty bitty feather". Dash smiled at Pinkie Pie, and looked back at Gilda. "See! I told you". Gilda sighed. "Fine". Gilda looked around and saw another cloud. "Hey Dash how about we race to that cloud? Go"! Rainbow Dash flew off in the direction of the cloud Gilda pointed out, while Gilda turned to Pinkie Pie. "I think the high altitude is making you dizzy". Gilda then proceeded to pop Pinkie's Baloons. She then went to catch up with Rainbow Dash, but unfourtently for Gilda, Pinkie Pie once again caught up as well, this time on some strange flying contraption. "Phew, you guys almost got away from me that time, but luckliy I manged to catch up". Gilda looked over at Rainbow Dash once again. "Hey, You gotta any new tricks or are you completey old school". Rainbow Dash smiled at Gilda "New moves? Heh, sit back G, this is gonna take a while". Rainbow Dash quickly left to get somethings she would need in order to show Gilda her tricks. Once Rainbow Dash was out of sight Gilda looked over to Pinkie Pie. "Hey Pinkie, C'mere". Pinkie Pie looked at Gilda confused. "Yeah"? Gilda the proceeded to grab the handled bar of Pinkie's contraption, pulling both it and the young pony closer to her. Pinkie was shocked, and a little frightened by what Gilda was doing. Gilda then began to speak, and she made sure Pinkie understood what the griffion was saying to her. "Don't you know how to take get lost for an answer? Dash doesn't need to hang with a dweeb like you now that I'm here. You're dorkin' up the skies, Stinkie Pie, so make like a bee and BUZZ OFF"! Gilda then threw Pinkie and her contraption to the ground just as Rainbow Dash returned from doing her tricks. "Hah! See if you can top that". Rainbow Dash then noticed that Pinkie Pie was gone. "Hey, where's Pinkie, and that weird thing she was on"? Gilda looked at Dash, and lied to the pegasus. "Oh she had to go, something about being as busy as a bee". Pinkie Pie looked up, and groaned in anger before walking away. Later she was at Twilight's house talking with her, Spike, Reiner, Apple Bloom, and Bertholdt about Gilda, and after hearing everything Pinkie Pie had to say about Gilda Reiner spoke up. "So Pinkie Pie, are you sure that this friend of Rainbow Dash is really so mean"? Pinkie stared at Reiner and replied "Uh yeah! she keeps stealing Rainbow Dash away, she pops my balloons, and she told me to buzz off. I've never met a griffon this mean. Well, actually, I've never met a griffon at all, but I bet if I had, she wouldn't have been as mean and grumpy as Gilda". Twilight then spoke up. "You know what I think Pinkie". Pinkie stared at Twilight in confusion. Twilight sighed and told Pinkie Pie what she thought. "I think you're jealous of Gilda". Pinkie Pie gasped in shock. "Jealous"?! "Green with envy, or in your case Pink with envy stated Spike". Bertholdt then spoke up agreeing with Twilight. "Well, yes. Jealous. Listen Pinkie, I don't want to upset you, but just because Rainbow Dash has another friend doesn't make Gilda a grump. I mean, perhaps it's you, Pinkie, who needs to improve her attitude". Pinkie just stared at Bertholdt in shock and tried to find a way to counter his words. "Improve my attitude? But I... d... b.. it's Gilda that... d... are you seri..." Pinkie Pie couldn't find the words, and simply groaned in frustration before running out of the libary. Apple Bloom walked over to the older ponies. "Pinkie Pie seemed really upset about how we accused her of being jealous". Reiner nodded in agreement. "Yeah maybe we should check to see if she's okay". He looked over to Bertholdt. "You wanna come with"? Bertholdt looked at his friend. "Sure". he replied. So Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt left the libary to catch up with Pinkie Pie. The eventualy found her sitting in a cafe sipping on a milkshake. Apple Bloom called out to the party pony "Hey Pinkie Pie". Pinkie looked up and saw the three other ponies coming towards her. "Hey you guys". The three ponies each pulled up their own chairs and sat with Pinkie Pie, Bertholdt was the first to break the silence. "So, are you okay"? Pinkie Pie stared a him for a second before replying. "Yeah, and I've been thinking". "Thinking about what"? asked Reiner. Pinkie Pie looked up at him, and replied. "I've been thinking that maybe you guys might be right, and that I just am jealous of Gilda". Hearing this caused Reiner to give Pinkie Pie a small smile, he was proud that she was able to admit how she was feeling. The three of them sat and talked for a bit when Rainbow Dash and Gilda flew into the middle of town. "Is that Gilda?" Apple Bloom asked Pinkie Pie Pinkie Pie nodded in respone while glaring at Gilda. The four of them decieded to listen in on Gilda and Dash's conversation. Rainbow Dash was laughing. "That was awesome Gilda"! Rainbow Dash then grumbled in annoyance. "Ugh! , I gotta take care of a few weather jobs around here. Shouldn't take long. Just, uh, hang out in town and I'll come find ya". Gilda smiled at Dash. "That's cool , I guess. I'm gonna go chow down". Rainbow Dash smiled at her friend. "See you"! Once Dash left, Gilda began to walk through the town before eventually walking up to a fruit cart where Apple Bloom's grandmother Granny Smith was waiting to buy some fruit. Decieding this was the perfect oppurtiunty for a prank Gilda hid behind the cart and used her tail to tickle Granny Smith's nose. Granny Smith thinking the tail belonged to a rattle snake jumped back with a start. "Aaah! A rattler, a rattler Run for the hills! Everybody forsake yourselves"! Gilda looked at the salespony. "It's just not fresh dude". Pinkie having saw the whole thing got really angry. "That was so mean! I can't belive Gilda would do that to Granny Smith"! Apple Bloom also stared at Gilda upset that the griffion had startled her grandmother, but she decieded to represe her feelings not wanting to judge Gilda over one prank. Pinkie Pie also began to second guess herself thinking back to what Apple Bloom, Twilight, Bertholdt, Spike, and Reiner had all told her in the library. "No, no, I can't misjudge her. It was kind of a funny prank, I guess". Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom however we're starting to second guess themselves. Maybe Pinkie Pie was right about Gilda. Their supscions only grew when Gilda took an Apple off of a cart without paying, and ate it causing Pinkie Pie to gasp. "I did misjudge her! She's not only a meanie mean-pants, she's also a thief"! But she then second guessed herself again. "Nonononono, she might give it back. It's just a joke". "Are you sure about that Pinkie"? asked Bertholdt. Pinkie was about to ansewer when all of a sudden the four ponies stopped when they saw Fluttershy leading a family of ducks through the town. "All right little ones, this way, this way. Mama duck, you're free and clear". Fluttershy was so busy with the ducks and couldn't see where she was going which caused her to bump into Gilda who promptly shouted at the young pegasus. "Hey"! Fluttershy looked up at the Griffion. "Pardon me please". Gilda however only shouted at Fluttershy. "I'm walking here". Hearing and seeing this caused Reiner to get up, and walk over to the two of them as Fluttershy was trying to apologize. "Oh, um, I'm sorry. I-I-I was just trying to". Gilda only mocked the pegaus's apology I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Why don't you just watch where you're going, doofus? Fluttershy began to tremble unable to speak proplerly. "B-b-b-but I... I..." Just as things where getting intense Reiner made it to the two of them and put his hoof around Fluttershy. Seeing him caused the young girl to calm down a bit. Reiner looked at Gilda, then at Fluttershy before sighing and speaking to Fluttershy. "Come on lets go". He began to lead Fluttershy away when Gilda stopped them. "Hey! I wasn't done talking to your friend here. Don't you know it's rude to intterupte someone when they're talking". Reiner stared at Gilda before replying. "Look were sorry. We didn't mean to bother you so can we just". "I don't want your apoglizes you big oath"! Gilda intterupted. Just then Apple Bloom arrived and tried to calm the situation. "Ma'am please calm down, no one here meant any harm". Gilda just stared at the filly, and then she did something the shocked everyone. Gilda brought her claw up, and slapped Apple Bloom super hard, sending her flying into a cart of fruit. The ponies gasped as Reiner and Fluttershy ran over to see if Apple Bloom was alright. Gilda just scoffed. "Ugh, please, all these lame ponies are driving me buggy. I gotta bail". Pinkie Pie, and Bertholdt stood there in shock. "My god Pinkie, you we're right about her". Said Bertholdt. Pinkie who had a look of pure anger on her face stared back at him and said. "I know! She's a grump, and a thief, and a bully! The meanest kind of mean meanie-pants there is! I can take it, but no one treats Apple Bloom like that! No one. This calls for extreme measures, Pinkie Pie style"! You can count us in Reiner stated as he and Fluttershy returned with a dazed Apple Bloom on Reiner's back. Pinkie Pie smiled at her friends. "Alright then we do it together! What do you say Apple Bloom" Apple Bloom who was still dazed like a drunk old stalion could only muster one word. "Excelsior". A few hours after the whole fisco at the market place, Pinkie Pie had set up a party for Gilda. Everypony had shown up, Applejack was talking with Rarity wondering who Gilda was. "Who's this Gilda I've heard nothing about"? "I belive she's an old friend of Rainbow Dash's. A griffion to be exact, very rare". Rarity replied. Applejack then saw her little sister walking through the doors. "Howday there Apple Bloom". Apple Bloom turned and saw Applejack and Rarity. "Oh hey there you two". Rarity and Applejack walked up to Applejack and began a conversation with the little filly. "You've met Gilda right darling". Apple Bloom nodded. Applejack smiled, proud that her sister possbily made a new friend that wasn't a pony. "So, what's she like". "She's a jerk"! which is what Apple Bloom wanted to say, but she didn't. Insted she said. "Uh, Gilda's............. interesting". Applejack, and Rarity nodded, both satisfiyed with Apple Bloom's answer. At the other side of Sugarcube Corner Fluttershy, and Twilight we're watching Apple Bloom's conversation. This prompted Twilight to ask Fluttershy what she thought of Gilda? "Hey Fluttershy, you've met Gilda haven't you"? Fluttershy turned to Twilight and nodded softly so Twilight contiued. "Is she like Apple Bloom says she is". "Um............................." Fluttershy tried to responed all while remembering how Gilda yelled her back at the market Fluttershy was extremaly greatful that Reiner intervined when he did, she didn't want to think about what would have happened to her if he hadn't come to her rescue. Fluttershy then noticed Pinkie Pie, and decieded to head over to the party planner. "I'll tell you later". Fluttershy said excuesing herself from Twilight, and walking over to Pinkie Pie. The earth Pony was still welcoming more ponies when Fluttershy walked up to her, and began speaking. "Um, Pinkie Pie, about this party for Gilda. Umm... do you really think it's a good idea? I mean—" Pinkie Pie just smiled. "Don't worry your pretty little head about mean old Gilda. Your auntie Pinkie Pie's got it all taken care of". Fluttershy just frowned in annoyance as Pinkie Pie walked away. "I'm a year older then you". Fluttershy then got a look of fear in her eyes when the guest of honor arrived. Seeing the griffion Fluttershy quickly walked over to Reiner and Bertholdt, both of them glaring at the griffion. Oh how both of them wanted to transform into their Titan forms, and smash Gilda, but they manged to contain their anger and remain civil. Pinkie Pie, noticing Gilda immeditdley ran up to her. "Gilda! I'm so honored to throw you one of my signature Pinkie Pie parties, and I really, truly, sincerely, hope you feel welcome here amongst all us pony folk". Gilda took Pinkie Pie's hoof to shake, only to be electrocuted by the joy buzzer hidden on the pink pony's hoof. This caused both Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash to burst out laughing. "Oh Pinkie Pie, the old hoof buzzer trick, what a classic". Rainbow Dash said while still laughing. Gilda chuckled nervously and gave a forced smile. "Yeah........... Good one Pinkie Pie". Rainbow Dash walked over to her. "Come on Gilda I'll introduce you to my friends". Gilda smiled "Alright". She then turned back to Pinkie Pie and gave her a threathing glare. "I know what you're doing'. Pinkie Pie just smiled, and said "Great"! This made Gilda even more angry. "I know what you're planning". Pinkie Pie still acting oblivious to what Gilda was talking about responed with. "Well, I hope so. This wasn't supposed to be a surprise party". "I mean. I've got my eye on you". Again Pinkie Pie just smiled, and responded with "And I got my eyen on you". She then turned to the other guest and introduced them all to Gilda. "Everyone, I'd like you all to meet Gilda, a long-time, dear friend of Rainbow Dash. Let's honor her and welcome her to Ponyville". All the ponies cheered for Gilda as Pinkie Pie offered her a treat. "Here! Help yourself". Gilda smiled and took the snack. "Vanailla lemon drops? Don't mind if I do". Gilda plopped the lemon drop into her mouth and almost instantly felt a burning sensation in her mouth. She cried out in pain as Rainbow Dash called out to her. "G Hurry, the punch"! Gilda quickly ran over to the punch bowl and took a large gulp, or at least attempted to, because the punch was pouring onto her chest, and not into her mouth. That garnered another laugh from Pinkie Pie. "Well, whaddya know, pepper in the vanilla lemon drops, and the punch served in a dribble glass"! Rainbow Dash couldn't help but laugh as well. "Ha! Priceless"! Gilda also tried to force a smile. "Yeah....... Hilarious". Rainbow Dash then walked over to another table filled with wraped boxes. "Hey G look presents". Seeing the gifts on the table Gilda rushed over and picked up a cylinder shaped box. She exicedtly opened the box only to have a bunch of springing snakes jump out at her. This caused the other ponies to burst out laughing. "Spittin' snakes. Hah, somepony pulled that prank on me last month". Said Applejack. Gilda snorted. "Yeah, I bet I know what that was". "You do"? asked Pinkie Pie. Apple Bloom giggled before turning to her sister. "Applejack I need to tell you something". Applejack smiled at Apple Bloom "Sure thing sugarcube, what's up"? Apple Bloom whispered something into Applejack's ear. When Apple Bloom was done Applejack shot Gilda a menceing glare then switched back to a friendly smile when the Griffion looked her way. Pinkie Pie then called out to everyone at the party. "Alrighty everypony, it's time for cake". Spike spoke up to ask Pinkie a question. "Can I blow out the candles"? Twilight however gentley shot him down. "How about we let Gilda blow them out. She is the guest of honnor after all". "Exactly". Gilda replied. She went over to the candles and blew, however they lit up again so Gilda blew again, she kept blowing them out, but the candles kept on re-lighting causing everyone to start laughing. "Re-lighting birthday candles, I love that prank! What a classic". Spike said. Pinkie Pie walked over to the cake with a confused look on her face. "I wonder who could have done that"? Gilda looked up gritting her teeth. "Yeah. I wonder". Both of them we're taking out of their thoughts however by Spike. "Mmm, who cares. This cake is amazing". Reiner gasped seeing this. "Spike"! But the dragon remained oblivious to Reiner's complaint. "What? It's great, try some". Rainbow Dash walked over to Gilda with a concerend look on her face. "Hey G, you're not upset about some silly candles, are you"? Gilda turned to Dash, and gave her a reassuring smile. "No way, Dash. Like I said, I'm down with a good prank". Rainbow smiled after hearing that. "Come on then, let's have some cake". Gilda nodded before turning to Pinkie Pie, grabbing her by the throat, and dragging her behind. "Hey, I'm watching you. Like a hawk". Pinkie Pie simply smiled again and said. "Why? Can't you watch me like a griffon"? That's how she was feeling on the outside, but on the inside, Pinkie Pie was trembling. She was unable to recall a moment when she had been this terrified. Applejack and Apple Bloom having both seeing the whole think tried to think of something to defuse the situation. It was then Apple Bloom noticed a very popular party game over on the wall. "Hey y'all, it's pin the tail on the pony. Let's play". "Oh, my favorite game. Can I go first? Can I have the purple tail"? asked Rarity. Gilda however spoke up. "Well, since I'm the guest of honnor I'll have the purple tail". Pinkie Pie nodded with a smile on her face. "Yeah, Gilda should definitely go first. Let's get you blindfolded". Gilda nodded, but became confused when Pinkie grabbed onto her waist. "Hey what— ugh— what are you doing? Rrrah"! Gilda yelled as Pinkie Pie started to spin her around. "We're spinning you around and around and then you can pin the tail on the pony". After spinning Gilda at least three more times Pinkie stopped, and explained to the griffion the rules of the game. "Now just walk straight ahead and pin the tail". Gilda grumbled to herself, mocking what Pinkie Pie had told her. "Now just walk straight ahead and pin the tail". Gilda turned around and scoffed. "Hmph, yeah, right. This is another prank, isn't it? I'm going this way". She said walking in the opposite direction as Pinkie Pie despertley tried to stop her. "Wait. The poster is this—" But Pinkie was too late as Gilda sliped on some frosting from the cake, and flew right into the back kitchen. When she came back out, she was dazed and had the tail on her beek, which Pinkie Pie kidnly pointed out, "Uh, Gilda? You pinned the tail on the wrong end". Everypony started laughing, and Gilda. Finally. Snapped. She roared in anger and frustration, and flew up. 'This is your idea of a good time? I've never met a lamer bunch of dweebs in all my life! And Pinkie Pie, you. You are queen lame-o with your weak little party pranks! Did you really think you could make me lose my cool? Well, Dash and I have ten times as much cool as the rest of you put together"! Gilda then landed and called out to Rainbow Dash. "Come on Dash, we're bailing on this pathetic scene". Rainbow didn't move. "Come on Dash, I said we're leaving"! Rainbow Dash still didn't move, but she did speak up. "You know Gilda, I was the one who set up all those weak pranks at this party". Gilda gasped in shock "What"?! Rainbow Dash contiued. "So I guess I'm queen lame-o" Gilda just stood their, she couldn't belive what she was hearing. "Come on, Dash, you're joshing me". Dash just stared at Gilda some more "They weren't all meant for you specifically, it was just dumb luck that you set them all off". Pinkie Pie suddendly understood what had been happening. "I shoulda known, that dribble cup had Rainbow Dash written all over it". Gilda could only stammer for a bit before being able to conpose herself. "No way, i-it was Pinkie Pie! She set up this party to trip me up, to make a fool of me". Pinkie Pie gasped in offense. "Me? I threw this party to improve your attitude. I thought a good party might turn that frown upside down". Rainbow Dash looked at Gilda and contiued. "You didn't need any help making a fool out of yourself Gilda, and I wouldn't have done all this if you hadn't done what you did in town today". A few hours eariler. Rainbow Dash returned from her weather duties and began to search for Gilda "Gilda"? She called, but got no answear. Dash looked around, and saw Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom (Now able to walk) comming towards her. "Hey everyony, have you seen my friend Gilda"? Reiner spoke up, "Yeah we actually want to talk to you about her". Rainbow Dash looked at him in confusion. "Oh, what's up"? That's when Pinkie Pie blurted out. "She's a bully"! Rainbow Dash was dumbfounded by what Pinkie just said. "What are you talking about"? she asked "She played a really mean trick on my Grandmother"! Stated Apple Bloom. Rainbow Dash looked at her and smiled. "Oh Gilda was probally just joking around, I'm sure she ment know harm". "She then Stole an Apple"! Said Pinkie Pie. That took Rainbow Dash aback, and she started to ponder what they we're saying, but once again brushed it off. "Like I said, it was probaly just a harmless prank". "After that, she bullied Fluttershy, just for walking into her"! Ranted Bertholdt! Fluttershy nodding in agreement. Now Rainbow Dash was starting to take the whole thing seriously. "Are you sure"? Now it was Reiner's turn to speak. "Finally, she slapped Apple Bloom, and sent her flying into a fruit cart". Apple Bloom nodded, and showed Rainbow Dash the red mark Gilda left her. Seeing this, finally made Dash realize that what her friends we're saying we're most likely true, and she couldn't let Gilda get away with any of this. Back in the present Rainbow Dash looked at Gilda in dissapointment. "You know, this is not how I thought my old friends would treat my new friends. If all you care about is being cool, then maybe you should go find some cool, new friends to hang out with". Gilda just stood there, her anger boiling inside her. She then turned her eyes to Pinkie Pie. "You". Pinkie Pie stared at her in confusion "Huh"? Suddendly without warning, Gilda lunged at Pinkie, grabbing her by the neck again, and pinning her to the wall. "THIS IS ALL YOU'RE FAULT! YOU MAD RAINBOW DASH SOFT! YOU" Gilda was intterupted when Rainbow Dash flew up, and kicked her in the gut, making the griffion let go of Pinkie. Gilda stared at her old friend in shock before eventually getting up. She stared at Rainbow Dash, enraged. "Rrgh... yeah? Well you, you... you are such a, a flip-flop, cool one minute and lame the next. When you decide not to be lame anymore, gimme a call". With that Gilda walked out the door, confusing everypony. "Not cool". stated Rainbow Dash "Wow, talk about a Party pooper", Said Spike. Twilight nodded in agreement. "Yeah, what was that all about"? The ponies began to talk amongst themselves, when Rainbow Dash spoke up. "I'm sorry everypony, for bringing Gilda here. I didn't know how rude she was". She then walked over to Pinkie Pie. "And Pinkie Pie, I'm really sorry she ruined that awesome party you put on for her". Pinkie Pie just smiled at Rainbow Dash. "Hey if you want to hang out with party poopers then that's your bussiness". Rainbow Dash smiled. "I'd rather hang with you. No hard feelings"? Pinkie Pie smiled back at Rainbow Dash. "No hard feelings". Twilight, and Reiner then walked up to the two of them, and Reiner spoke to Pinkie Pie. "Hey Pinkie. Sorry we accused you of misjudging Gilda. Looks like we're the ones who misjudged you". Pinkie Pie gave the two of them a reassurng grin. "Oh that's ok Reiner even you can't be a super smart smarty smart-pants all the time. Come on everypony, there's still a whole lotta party to finish". The party contiued while Twilight wrote out another letter to Princess Celestia. "Dearest Princess Celestia, Today I learned that it's hard to accept when somepony you like wants to spend time with somepony who's not so nice. Though it's impossible to control who your friends hang out with, it is possible to control your own behavior. Just continue to be a good friend. In the end, the difference between a false friend and one who's true will surely come to light." In Canterlot, Celestia pulled out her own pen and paper and began to write Twilight back. "Dear Twilight Sparkle, My most faithful student." Celestia stopped when she realized she was using dissapearing ink. "Oops, wrong ink". Back at Sugarcube Corner the party was finally over, and ponies were leaving, Reiner being the last one out, before he left, he turned to Pinkie Pie. "Hey, are you going to be ok? I mean after what Gilda did to you, and" Pinkie Pie smiled and told him "Don't worry Reiner, I'll be fine". Reiner smiled at the party pony, and left. Once Reiner was gone, Mr. and Mrs. Cake walked over and put their hooves on Pinkie Pie. This told her that the other ponies were gone. Knowing that the cost was clear, Pinkie Pie finally broke down, and began to sob, and trembele. "I was so scared, I thought she was going to". She couldn't bring herself to finish and contiued to cry while the cakes assured her that everything would be alright. Preview. When a traveling magcian arrives in Ponyville, and begins boasting about how great she is, Twilight is hesientant to stand up to her, Believing her friends will hate her. Next Episode Boast Busters. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Pinkie Pie Twilight Sparkle Rainbow Dash Golden Harvest Sweetie Drops Minuette Derpy Hooves Bertholdt Hoover/Colossal Titan Spike Princess Celestia Rarity Applejack Apple Bloom Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Fluttershy Gilda Granny Smith Big Macintosh Berry Punch Mr. Cake Mrs. Cake Episode 11: Boast Busters: Gala arc Part 4Twilight Sparkle, Princess Celestia's most faithful student was pratcticng some new magic spells, in her home in Ponyville. Helping her out was her dragon assistaint Spike, and Apple Bloom, the little sister of Twilight's friend Applejack. The two of them stood in anticipation, as Twilight was about to perform her next spell. Spike in particular was really excited for this next one. "Come on, Twilight. You can do it"! Twilight nodded, she had complete confidiance in herself right now. "Alright, here I go". Twilight's horn began to glow, she strained with all her might. Apple Bloom watched the event from her spot in the library. "Come on Ms. Twilight, you can do this". And she did, with one poof the spell worked. A short but very noticble mustache appeared on Spike's face. "Ha ha! Ya did it! Growing magic". Twilight smiled, and looked over at Apple Bloom. "Alright, Apple Bloom, how many is that"? "That would be twenty five, Ms. Twilight". Twilight smiled, and looked over at Spike who was admiring himself in the mirrior. "I'll say, this has the be the best Spell yet". Spike then began to imange himself talking to Rarity "Hello, Rarity. What's that? Aw, it's nothin', just my awesome mustache". Twilight, and Apple Bloom both laughed at Spike's fanasty. Unfourtently for the dragon though, it was time for Twilight to "ruin his fun" "Sorry, Romeo. As attractive and enticing as you look, it's just for practice, and it's gotta go". "Wait"! Spike tried to protest, but he was unsucessful. "Aw, rats"! Twilight and Apple Bloom again started to laugh while Spike sighed in despair. Apple Bloom then spoke up. "Oh Spike, don't go being like that. You don't need facial hair to impress a girl". Spike looked up at Apple Bloom as she contiued talking. "You're fine just the way you are". Twilight nodded agreeing with what Apple Bloom had said. This caused Spike to smile and start laughing as well. Twilight, Spike, and Apple Bloom we're all walking through the town. The whole time Spike was excidetly talking about, all the spells Twilight had performed that day. "Twenty-five, Twilight. Twenty-five different kinds of tricks and counting". "I thought unicorns were only supposed to have a little magic that matches their special talents". said Apple Bloom. Twilight smiled at the two of them. "True, for ponies whose talents are for things like cooking or singing or math. But what if a unicorn's special talent is magic"? "Like you, Twilight, and you know a ton of magic". stated Spike. Twilight blushed in embarsement. "Oh, Spike, stop. I'm sure there are lots of ponies right here in Ponyville that know just as much magic as me". Spike just scoffed firmly beleving that no one could ever compare to Twilight. "Are you kiddin'? I don't think there's another unicorn in all of Equestria with your kind of ability, Twilight". Twilight couldn't help, but smile at her number one assiantant. All of a sudden, the three of them heard a voice yell out. " Gangway! Comin' through"! Apple Bloom, Spike, and Twilight turned around to see the two young unicorn colts Snips, and Snails running at them at full speed. Twilight, and Apple Bloom stepped to the side, and out of the way of the two young colts. Spike however was unable to move, and ended being taken along with both Snips, and Snails. " Augh! Snips, Snails! What's goin' on"? Snails looked at Spike in confusion. " Wha, haven't you heard"? Spike was thrown off of Snips horn, as the two unicorns came to an abrubt halt. Twilight, and Apple Bloom qucikly caught up with the three boys, as Snips began to explain what was going on. "There's a new unicorn in town"! Snails nodded in exicetment. "Yeah! They say that she's got more magical powers than any other unicorn ever"! "Really"? asked Twilight. Spike scoffed after hearing what Snails had said. There was absoultely no way any unicorn had more maigc then Twilight, and was going to make sure these two knew that. "Aw, no way, that honor goes to Twilight here". Twilight again blushed in embarassment. Apple Bloom looked over at Snips, and Snails, who both blushed themselves when they saw her staring. "So, where is this unicorn"? Apple Bloom asked Snails, and Snips both quickly snapped back into reality. "Oh! She's in Town Square". Come on! Snails said as he, and Snips led Twilight, Apple Bloom, and Spike to where this unicorn was. Arrving at the town square Twilight, Spike, and Apple Bloom saw some sort of stage wagon in the middle, and a bunch of ponies surronding it. The three of them pushed their way through the crowd, and met up with their friends. Apple Bloom was the first to speak up. "What's going on here"? "I'm not sure, this wagon just showed up in town, and now everypony is interested to see what this is all about". Replied Reiner. All of a sudden a voice spoke out from behind the curtian of the stage wagon. "Come one, come all! Come and witness the amazing magic of the Great and Powerful Trixie"! A blue unicorn wearing a magican's costume appeared on the stage with a very smug smile on her face. The ponies stared at her in confusion as she began to adress the crowd. "Watch in awe as the Great and Powerful Trixie performs the most spectacular feats of magic ever witnessed by pony eyes"! Rarity only rolled her eyes, unamused by Trixie's braging. "My, my, my! What boasting"! Spike was also angered by this new unicorn's attitude, and was going to make sure everyone there new it. "Come on, nopony's as magical as Twi—' However he began to stutter when he realized that he was standing right next to his crush. "Twi— Twi— Oh! Hey, Rarity, I, uh—" Spike then remembered he didn't have any facial hair anymore! "Mustache"! As Spike ran off Twilight looked over at Applejack with worried eyes. "There's nothing wrong with being talented, is there"? "Nothin' at all, 'cep'n when someone goes around showin' it off like a school filly with fancy new ribbons". Rarity nodded in agreement "Just because one has the ability to perform lots of magic does not make one better than the rest of us". "Especially when ya got me around being better than the rest of us". Rainbow Dash stated with pure confidance. That statment only earned her several looks disapproval from the others, causing dash to chuckle nervously. "Eh, I mean, yeah, uh, magic shmagic. Boo"! Trixie, having heard everything took great offense to what they were saying, and almost instantly called them out. "Well, well, well, it seems we have some neighsayers in the audiance! Who is so igronant as to challenge the magical ability of the Great and Powerful Trixie? Do they not know that they're in the presence of the most magical unicorn in all of Equestria"? "Who the hell does she think she is"? asked Bertholdt. Again, Spike spoke up in favor of Twilight. "Yeah! Since we all know that Twilight here is—" "Spike Shhh"! Twilight whispered. This garnered a confuse look from the dragon. "What? What's wrong"? he asked. Twilight took Spike aside and began to explain why she didn't want him to talk about her magic skills. "You see the way they reacted to Trixie? I don't want anyone thinking I'm a show-off". While Spike, and Twilight were talking Rainbow Dash flew up to Trixie and began perstering the new unicorn to proove what she's saying is true. "So, "Great and Powerful Trixie". What makes you think you're so awesome, anyway"? Trixie only smirked in response. "Heh, why, only the Great and Powerful Trixie has magic strong enough to vanquish the dreaded ursa major"! The crowd gasped in shock as Trixie used a fireworks display to show them exactly how she "defeated" said Ursa Major. No pony was more impressed by the display then Snips, and Snails. "What"? "No way". Trixie then proceeded to tell the citzens of ponyville the story of her "great encounter" "When all hope was lost, the ponies of Hoofington had no one to turn to, but the Great and Powerful Trixie stepped in, and with her awesome magic, vanquished the ursa major and sent it back to its cave deep within the Everfree Forest"! Snips, and Snails both smiled in delight after hearing the story. "Awesome"! They said in uinson. Snips spoke up for all the crowd to hear. "That settles it"! "Trixie is the most powerful unicorn in Ponyville"! Snails stated. "No! All of Equestria"! Hearing this Only made Spike angrier. He couldn't belive that the two unicorn colts we're falling for Trixie's lies. "How do you know? You didn't see it! And besides, Twi—" Before he could finsh Twilight used another spell to zip his mouth shut, all the while Trixie laughed, clearly amused by Snips, and Snails admoration for her. "It's true, my enthusiastic little admirers. Trixie is most certainly the best in Ponyville". None of ponies responded to Trixie's claim, in fact the only thing she really got was an eye roll from Bertholdt. Trixie noticeing that no one had reacted then decieded to offer them something. "Don't believe the Great and Powerful Trixie? Well then, I hereby challenge you, Ponyvillians. Anything you can do, I can do better. Any takers? Anyone? Hmm? Or is Trixie destined to be the greatest equine who has ever lived"!? Spike, having finally had enough unziped his mouth, got on the ground and begged Twilight to do something. "Please! She's unbearable! Ya gotta show her! Ya just gotta"! Twilight however refused. "There's no way I'm going to use my magic now, Spike. Especially since—" But before she could finish, Trixie found a Pony she wanted to challange. "How about You"! Twilight, thinking Trixie was pointing at her gulped nervously. Twilight was still standing there dumbfounded as Trixie kept on speaking. "Well, how about it? Hm? Is there anything you can do that the Great and Powerful Trixie can't"? Twilight who was still in shock was trying to find the words to say. "I— I—" But Twilight soon noticed that Trixie wasn't talking to her, she was talking to Applejack. "Well, little hayseed"? Applejack, gasped at Trixie's insult. There was no way in hell she was going to take that sitting down. "That's it! I can't stand for no more of this"! Apple Bloom looked up at her big sister. Applejack stared at the little filly and gave her a reassuring smile. "Don't ya worry none little one, I got this". "Yeah go Applejack"! Spike called out. "With that, Applejack walked on to the stage". "Can your magical powers do This"? Applejack started to do serveal tricks with her laso. Once she was done, Applejack gave Trixie a very smug look. "Top that missy". Trixie only responded with a yawn, clearly unimpressed with what Applejack did. "Oh ye of little talent. Watch and be amazed at the magic of Trixie"! Trixie lit up her horn, and took hold of the rope. She then began to move it around like a snake, in front of Applejack. Trixie then wraped the rope around Applejack's hooves, fliped her upside down, and put an Apple in her mouth. The crowd laughed as Applejack hobbled off the stage, Apple Bloom rushing over to make sure she was alright. Trixie laughed out loud. "Once again, the Great and Powerful Trixie prevails". Reiner was begining to have enough, Trixie wasn't just a showoff, she was entitled, and a bully. Sure he's done way worse things, but still, what Trixie was doing was too much. He was about to step up to her, when Rainbow Dash flew into Trixie face. "There's no need to show off in front of everyone here"! Trixie raised an eyebrow at the cyan pegaus, but let her contiue. "That's what I do". Rainbow Dash proceeded to fly up into the sky, spin on a windmill, go throw some clouds, and came back down, landing with a screeching halt on Trixie's stand. The crowd cheered in delight at Dash's peformance. "They don't call me "Rainbow" and "Dash" for nothin'"! Even Trixie had to admit she was a little impressed by Rainbow Dash's skills, but Trixie was never one to play fair, and she had no intentions on starting now. "When Trixie is through, the only thing they'll call you is loser". Once again, Trixie lit up her horn, and grabbed the rainbow that had appered over Dash, causing it to Spin around Dash, making the pegaus extreneley disy. "Whoa! Whoa! Whoa-a-a-a"! Finally Dash stopped spinning. "I, think, I'm gonna be sick". Trixie stared smuggly at the crowd. "Seems like anypony with a Dash of good sense would think twice before tussling with the Great Trixie". Trixie then used a cloud to zap Dash with a bolt of lighting. Twilight and her friends couldn't belive how rude Trixie was being. "What we need is another unicorn to challenge her. Someone with some magic of her own". said Spike Rainbow Dash nodded in agreement. " Yeah! A unicorn to show this one who's boss" Applejack also agreed. "A real Unicorn, on Unicorn brawl". Reiner looked over at Twilight, and saw that she was getting nervous, so he decieded to do it himself. Despite not being a unicorn for very long, and still getting use to this knew world he and Bertholdt we're in, Reiner just couldn't stand Trixie and how annoying she was. But just as Reiner was about to confront her, Rarity stepped in front of him. She looked back at Reiner, as if to tell him she's got this. Rarity turned back around and looked at Trixie dead in the eye. "Enough. Enough, all of you. I take your hint, but Rarity is above such nonsense. Rainbow Dash and Applejack may behave like ruffians, but Rarity conducts herself with beauty and grace". Trixie just smiled. "Ooo, what's the matter? Afraid you'll get a hair out of place in that rat's nest you call a mane"? That got Rarity. No one ever insults her mane. Trixie had crossed a very big line, and Rarity was going to make sure she new it. " Oh, it. Is. On! You may think you're tough with all of your so-called powers, but there's more to magic than your brutish ways. A unicorn needs to be more than just muscle. A unicorn needs to have style". That statment caused the crowd to gasp in suprise. "A unicorn is not a unicorn without grace and beauty". As Rarity kept on talking, Trixie just yawned and performed a Spell. Spike smiled in delight, after all if Twilight wouldn't stand up to Trixie, then Rarity surley could. That was, until Spike saw what Trixie had done. "Rarity won't let Trixie get the best of her! She's strong, she's beautiful, she's—" Hearing the audiance gasp, Rarity instantly knew something was wrong. "Quick, Somepony grab me a mirror! I need a mirror"! She called out. Rarity then looked over at her friends. "What did she do to my hair"?! "Nothing! Said Twilight "It's fine"! Said Rainbow Dash "It's gorgeous"! Said Applejack "It's Perfect"! Said Reiner "Spectactular"! Said Bertholdt "It's just as beautiful as ever"! Said Apple Bloom. "It's green". Said Spike, prompting all of them to give him a glare. "What"? Rarity looked up and saw that Spike was right. Her eyes filled with tears. "Ugh, no. Green hair! Not green hair"! Rarity ran of the stage crying in despair. "Such an awful, awful color"! One pony, who happened to have green hair scoffed, insaulted by Rarity's statment. "Well, I never". After Rarity ran off Spike turned to Twilight, she just had to show up Trixie in order to teach that Unicorn a lesson she wouldn't forget. He just hoped that Twilight would agree. "Well Twilight, guess it's up to you. Come on, show her what you're made of". But Twilight just chuckled nervously. "What do you mean? I'm nothing special". Spike, knowing that wasn't true tried his best to reason with Twilight, and make her see that she could beat Trixie. "Yes, you are! You're better than her"! Again Twilight refused to do anything though, and now she was even more nervous because ponies were all staring at her. "I'm not better than anyone". Trixie, having heard Twilight, and Spike's conversation, scoffed and began to walk towards them, eyes directley on Twilight who was now getting even more nervous. Seeing that Twilight was uncomfterble, Reiner stepped in front of her, something the lavnder unicorn was greatful for, especialy when Trixie began talking. "Hah! You think you're better than the Great and Powerful Trixie? You think you have more magical talent? Well, come on, show Trixie what you've got. Show us all". Twilight gulped nervously as Trixie began pestering her. "Who, me? I'm just your run-of-the-mill citizen of Ponyville. No powerful magic here. I, uh... I think I hear my laundry calling. Sorry, gotta go". Spike looked on in worry as Twilight ran off. "Twilight"? Trixie however just laughed seeing Twilight run off in embarssement. "Ha! Once again, the Great and Powerful Trixie has proven herself to be the most amazing unicorn in all of Equestria. Huh, was there ever any doubt"? Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Spike, Apple Bloom, Reiner, Rarity, and Bertholdt looked on as Twilight ran off. All of them were extremley worried for their friend. "Gee, I sure hope she's going to be alright". Stated Rainbow Dash. "I'll go make sure". Said Reiner. Applejack looked at the unicorn Stalion, and gave him a small smile. "Thank ya kindly Reiner, I'd really like to know what's wrong". "She doesn't want to stand up to Trixie, because she thinks you'll hate her if she uses her magic to show Trixie up". answered Spike. They all looked at him in shock. "Hate her, oh heavens no"! exclamied Rarity. "Why on earth would she think that"? asked Bertholdt. "Probaly because how you acted when Trixie was doing her magic tricks, Applejack you even said that being talent is bad, when somepony shows off". Replied Apple Bloom Applejack looked down in shame. "You're right little sis, this is all my fault. I should have been more clear as to what I meant". Rainbow Dash put a hoof on Applejack's shoulder. "We're all to blame for this AJ. None of us were clear as to what we meant in this situation". The friends all looked down feeling gulity about the situation. "Alright", Reiner spoke up. I'm going to make sure Twilight's alright, and let her know that we will always be there for her no matter what". Spike looked at the unicorn stalion with a huge smile on his face. "Thank you Reiner, Thank you". With that, Reiner headed for the Golden Oak Library. Currently Publicly Available Information Ursas. Creatures that live in the everfree forest. They are very simlar to bears, but much larger, and are transparent in color, with Stars over ther bodies. Babies are referred to as Ursa Minors, and grow to about 15 meters tall, which is the largest height of most Titans, where as the adults are called Ursa Majors, and grow to about 60 meters, roughly the same height as the Colossal Titan Reiner arrived at the library, and opened the door. When he walked inside he found Twilight, by her podium, reading a book. "Hey, Twi......... What are you doing"? Twilight turned around, and gave him a small smile. "Hi Reiner, I'm just doing some reading". "Reading about what? asked Reiner". "Oh uh, just some research on some random things". Stated Twilight. Reiner looked at Twilight in confusion, but brushed his supscions off. "Listen, Twilight Spike told us how you've been feeling, and I just wanted to let you know, that none of us will think badly of you, if you use your magic". "Yes you will". Twilight said blankly. So don't lie to me Reiner". Reiner was taken aback at Twilight's response. He tried to think of a way to reason with her. "Twi, That's not true, and you". "Yes it is"! Reiner sighed, knowing he couldn't get through to Twilight, he left the libary in silence. As Reiner left the Library and began walking down the street, he ran into Spike, and Bertholdt. Both of them had looks of worry on their face. Seeing Reiner they walked up to him, Spike was the first to speak. "Hey Reiner, how's Twilight doing"? "She refuses to listen to me, she's so convinced we'll hate if she stands up to Trixie". Spike looked down sadly, he couldn't believe Twilight was being this stubborn, and not using her magic to stand up for her friends. He was about to say something else, when all three of them noticed Snips and Snails walking by with a smoothie on Snips Back. "What are those two up too? asked Spike". "I'm not sure, but lets go see. You coming Bertholdt"? asked Reiner. "Yeah, let's go". Bertholdt replied. Snips, and Snails contiued walking through town, until they came upon Trixie, who was busy brushing mane. She reeled back in shock when Snips shoved the smoothie into her face. "Here's your smoothie you asked for, with extra hay, just how you like it". Trixie tooked the smoothie, and started to drink it, stopping when she noticed Snips, and Snails giving her very weird looks. "Yes"? "Tell us another story". said Snails. "Yeah, tell us about how you defeated an Ursa Major"! Snips requested. Trixie groaned in annoyance. "Guh! Trixie is far too exhausted from performing feats beyond imagination. Begone with you until morning". Snips, and Snails slowly began to back away, all while still praising Trixie. "Oh, of course, Great and Powerful Trixie". "Whatever you say". The two colts kept walking backwards until they bumped into Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt. "What are you doing"? asked Spike "Just bringin' the Gee an' Pee Tee a—" "The what"? Bertholdt asked in confusion. "The Great and Powerful Trixie". Snips replied. "Sheesh. Spike groaned. "We brought her a smoothie". Snips continued. Reiner looked at the two colts, before sighing. "You guys seriously belive everything she says is true"? Snips and Snails both nodded in response which caused Spike to get even more frustrated. "How can you fall for her lameness? She's just a show-off. Unlike Twilight, who—" Snips intteruppted Spike before he could finish is sentence. "The Great and Powerful Trixie vanquished an ursa major. Can your Twilight claim that"? Spike however only scoffed in response. "Oh really? Were you guys actually there"? Snips began to stutter. "Well, eh, uh... no, but—" "But nothing, You weren't there, and unless and ursa comes walking up the street for Trixie to vanquish, I'm not going going to believe it, and neither should you". Snips began to ponder Spike's words, and soon an Idea popped into his head. "An ursa walking up the street eh"? He looked over at Snails. You thinking what I'm thinking. "Why is it called a flea market if i doesn't sell fleas"? Snips slapped his forhead in frustration. "No! Ugh, come on"! With that, Snips and Snails left, leaving, Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt to wonder what they we're up too. "What do you think their planning"? asked Bertholdt. "I'm not sure, but we shouldn't worry about, we need to figure out what to do with Twilight". Reiner replied. He then turned over to her number one assistant. "Spike, do you think maybe you you could convince her to use her magic, and stand up to Trixie". Spike gave Reiner a smile and saluted. "You can count on me"! Spike left to go to the library with the intend on convincing Twilight to use her skills. Once he arrived, Spike found Twilight, still reading that same book. He went over and grabbed the chart they had been working on eariler that day. "Twilight, can you please put down that book, and listen to me just for a minute"? Twilight knew what Spike was going to ask her, and she had no plans on fufilling his request. "Didn't you see how they hated Trixie's bragging, Spike? If I go out there and show off my magic, I run the risk of losing them as friends". Spike tried his best to reason with Twilight. "It's not the same thing, Twilight. You'll be using your magic to stand up for your friends"! Twilight however refused to listen to what Spike was saying. "It is the same Spike". Spike just stood in shock, he couldn't believe that Twilight was being so unreasonable. "What is wrong with you?! Are you so worried about the possiblity of loosing your friends that you can't stand the idea that you might be wrong". "I'm not Spike! I'm not going to show up Trixie"! Spike began to list off all the spells Twilight could use. "Come on, Twilight, any one of these tricks, even the teeniest, would be enough to show up Trixie". Twilight still wouldn't listen. "I don't wanna be known as a bragger". "But you're the best"! Stated Spike "Spike, stop! I said no"! Realizing he too couldn't get through to Twilight Spike sighed in defeat. "If that's the way you want to be, then fine". Spike left the library, and Twilight went back to reading her book. Spike walked for a little while thinking to himself. "I don't understand, Why can't Twilight see that if she uses her magic to stand up to Trixie, our friends won't hate her". Spike got more and more frustrated, to the point where he picked up a rock and through it at a wall making a loud clang. "DAMNIT"! The combanation of the rock hitting the wall, and Spike's yell, happened to wake up Apple Bloom, who opened her window and looked out. Seeing Spike, she called out to him. "Spike, what are you doing, and why are you shouting, and throwing things at my familes house"? Spike looked up, and blushed in embarrasment once he realized that he was on Sweet Apple Acres. "Oh um sorry Apple Bloom, I'm just a little frustrated about how Twilight's being. She still thinks everypony will hate her if she stands up to Trixie". "Didn't you tell her that wasn't the case"? Apple Bloom asked. "Reiner and I both did". Spike replied. Apple Bloom pondered what Spike had said, and soon was abel to come up with an idea. "Maybe she'll listen if all of you tell her that you guys won't hate her if she uses her magic". Spike thought about it, and smiled. "That's perfect! Apple Bloom you goddamn genius"! Apple Bloom blushed and gave Spike a small smile, that made the dragon's heart melt. "Well I gotta get going, I'll see you around Apple Bloom". With that, Spike left the farm, and Apple Bloom closed her window, but just as she was about to go back to bed Applejack came in, with a confused look on her face. "Apple Bloom who we're you talkin to"? "Oh, just Spike big sis". Apple Bloom then proceeded to tell Applejack about what she and Spike talked about. Applejack agreed to Apple Bloom's plan. Meanwhile in the Everfree Forest Snips and Snails found themselves walking into a dark cave. The two colts kept blindly walking forward until Snips realized their situation. "Oh, how we gonna find an ursa major when I can't even see my own hoof in front of my face"? "Hold on". Snails began to light up his horn brighting up the cave. "Oh, that is better". Snips stated. Unfourtnetley for them, a huge blue bear happened to sleeping right behind them, and Snails light was enough to awaken the giant creature, and it was not happy to see two intuders in it's home. The bear growled at the boys, and slowy began to stand. Snips and Snails both screamed, and ran out of the cave with the ursa in hot pursit. Elsewhere, Spike was walking alone, when he heard the screams. He looked up and saw Snips and Snails running for their very lives. Confused, Spike called out to them. "Hey, guys, where ya goin"? But they ignored him. "Can't talk now"! Snips called back "Got a major problem"! Snails stated. "Yeah! Ursa Major to be exact". Spike looked at them confused, until he heard a loud roar. He turned and saw the bear that Snips, and Snails we're running from. "TRIXIE"! Snips and Snails screamed "Twilight"! Spike yelled. Snips, and Snails ran as fast as their hooves could carry them. They kept running until they came up to Trixie's wagon yelling and pleading for her to wake up. Trixie came up to the door, and wasn't to pleased to see the young colts again. "Trixie thought she said the Great and Powerful Trixie did not want to be disturbed"! Snips began to explain the situation. "We— We have a— a tiny problem". "Actually it's a big one". Snails Corrected Trixie, annoyed honestly didn't care what it was they were going on about. "What is so important that you cannot wait until moring to disturb Trixie"?! It was then she heard the growl. Trixie looked past the two, and saw the ursa major emerge from the treeline. (XLTT Plays) Trixie screamed in horror, and ran out of her wagon, Snips and Snails following behind while the ursa smashed the wagon under it's paw. Meanwhile, Spike ran back to the golden oak library, and burst through the door finding Twilight still reading the same book. "Twilight! You gotta come, quick"! "I already told you Spike, I'm not going to show up Trixie". "No you don't understand"! Twilight was about to protest, when she heard the roar. "Uh, is that what I think it is"? "Majorly". Spike confirmed. The ursa had manged to corner Trixie, Snips, and Snails, the latter two urging the former to fight it. "Great and Powerful Trixie, you've got to vanquish the ursa". "Yeah! Vanquish so we can watch"! "It took a lot of trouble to bring that thing here"! Trixie looked back at the two of them in shock. "Wait! You brought this here!? Are you crazy"!? Snips looked at Trixie in confusion, wondering why she was so nervous. "But, you're the Great and Powerful Trixie". "Yeah, remember. You defeated an ursa major"! Snails reminded her. Trixie gulped nervously before finally agreeing to their request. "Alright, st-stand back". Trixie ordered with a shakey voice. She then used her magic to pull out the same rope she used against Applejack eairler that moring, and began to tie it around the ursa. "Their, piece of cake". Trixie said nerously. Unfourntently for them however, The rope only went around two of the bear's fingers which it eaisly snapped. Snips and Snails looked on in confusion. "Oh come on Trixie"! "Yeah, Stop messing around and defeat it already". Trixie tried another spell, but only manged to summon a small storm cloud "Well, that sucked". Snails Stated. "Yeah, what gives?! Where's all the cool explosions and smoke and stuff like earlier? You know". Just after Snips had said that a bolt of lighting shot out of the cloud, striking the ursa in the rear causing the beast to roar out in anger. Trixie and the boys screamed and ran in the opposite direction while the ursa kept roaring, awakening the citizens of ponyville, who all ran away from the monster, while Twilight, and Spike ran towards it, meeting up with Bertholdt and Reiner. the four of them then met up with Snips, and Snails. "What the Hell is happening! Asked Twilight. "We brought an Ursa to town". Snips said with a triumphant smirk on his face. "You what"!? exclamied Reiner. Snails looked at Twilight and Spike with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, The Great and Powerful Trixie will vanquish it"! he said reassuringly. Trixie however just stood in place, before sighing and making a confession. "I can't". Snips and Snails, both gasped in shock and shouted. "WHAT"?! Trixie then contiued. "Oh, I can't, I never have. No one can vanquish an ursa major. I just made the whole story up to make me look better". "MADE IT UP"!? the boys exclaimed in shock. They we're all taken out of their states when the ursa roared again. Spike turned to Twilight, and pointed at the bear. Twilight gulped, but quickly copsed herself, and walked towards the ursa. Bertholdt looked over to Reiner with a worried expression. "Reiner, maybe you should". "No. Reiner intterupted. If Twilight's life is in real danger, then I'll step in as the Armored Titan". Reiner whispered to Bertholdt. Twilight meanwhile was lighting up her horn. She grunted, and strained until the spell she was trying to use finally worked. The townsfolk looked around whe a soft gentle tune began to play in the ursa's ears. The bear quickly went from angry to calm. Spike smiled in exicetment. "Nice use of number sixteen"! Twilight strained some more, and lifted the dome off of the town's watertower. Dumping out the water, moving it inside a barn filled with a bunch cows, and filling it with milk. "Well damn". Spike Stated. The Bear began to topple over, only for Twilight to catch it. With all her stregth she lifted the ursa, gave it the milk, which it started drinking like a bottle. Finally Twilight, using her magic manged to gentley float it all the way back to it's cave. Twilight sighed in refief, she was tired after all that, but was snapped back awake by cheers and appluads. She turned around to see all her friends cheering for her. "Unbeilveable"! Stated Rainbow Dash. "That was amazing"! Said Spike "Heavens to Betsy! We knew you had ability, but not that much"! Applejack pointed out. Twilight began to panic, thinking her friends we're angry with her. "I'm sorry. Please, please don't hate me". Rarity smiled at Twilight. "Oh darling, Spike told us how you we're feeling durning the show. We don't hate you, but we would like to know why you would think that we would". Twilight looked down, and responeded "Well, I know how much you all hated Trixie's showing off with her magic tricks, and I just thought--" "Whoa, whoa, whoa. Magic's got nothing to do with it. Trixie's just a loudmouth". Dash intterupeted "Most unpleasent". Rarity stated "All hat and no play". Said Applejack. Twilight looked at the three of them in confusion. "So, you don't mind my magic tricks"? Applejack smiled at Twilight "Your magic is a part of who you are, sugarcube, and we like who you are. We're proud to have such a powerful, talented unicorn as our friend. Didn't Reiner tell you that". Twilight smiled sheepishly after Applejack asked that. "I, uh kind of didn't want to listen to him, because I was so conviced that you would all hate me for using my magic". "Twilight, none of us would ever hate, and don't you ever think otherwise". Reiner stated. Spike had a huge smile on his face. He was glad that Twilight finally understood what he, and Reiner had been trying to tell her, but there was one thing he just had to know. "Wow, Twilight, how'd you know what to do with that ursa major"? "That's what I was doing when you came looking for me. I was so intrigued by Trixie's bragging that I was compelled to do a little reading up on them". Spike also became more interested after hearing that. "So a pony can defeat an ursa major all by themselves"? he asked. "That wasn't an ursa major. It was a baby, an ursa minor". Twilight answered. Everyone gasped in shock. "That was only a baby"! exclaimed Trixie in complte disbelif "And it wasn't rampaging. It was just cranky because someone woke up"! Twilight contiued gesturing to Snips and Snails, who both chuckled nervously. "Well, if that was an ursa minor, then what's an ursa major like"! asked Spike. Twilight thought for a bit, before chuckling. "You don't wanna know". Trixie, who had now finally calmed down from her intenial shock, walked up to Twilight with a smug look on her face. "Huh. You may have vanquished an ursa minor, but you will never have the amazing, show-stopping ability of the Great and Powerful Trixie"! With that, Trixie through down a smoke bomb and ran off. "Why that little"! Rainbow Dash stated with annoyance. She was just about to fly after Trixie, but was stopped by Reiner. "Just let her go Dash, maybe someday she'll learn her leasson. Now as for you two". Twilight said to Snips, and Snails who we're trying to sneak away. "Uh, we're sorry we woke up the ursa minor". Snips chuckled nervously. "Yeah, we just wanted to see some awesome magic". Snails replied. "And the way you vanquished that ursa minor was really cool". Snips stated, hoping Twilight would let them go, but she just gave them am unamused look. Seeing this, Snips and Snails both bowed down in shame. "We will accept any punishment you give us". Snails stated. "For starters, you can clean up this mess". Twilight told them, looking over at Trixie's destroyed wagon. She then turned to Spike. "And... What do you think, Spike? Should I give them number twenty five"? Spike chuckled devilsly. "Oh, twenty five! Yes! And I think I deserve it, too". "I think you're right"! said Twilight. Snips and Snails closed their eyes in fear while Spike exicitedly put his face out. Twilight then used her magic to put three mustaches on the boys. "Sweet". They said in uinson. Back at the library, Twilight was once again at her podium, but this time, she was writing her letter to the Princess. "Dear Princess Celestia, I have learned a very valuable lesson about friendship: I was so afraid of being thought of as a show-off that I was hiding a part of who I am. My friends helped me realize that it's okay to be proud of your talents, and there are times when it's appropriate to show them off... Especially when you're standing up for your friends". Once she was finished, Spike came back after showing his mustache to Rarity. "So, you finally admit, you're the most talent unicorn in town"? he asked. Twilight thought for a bit, before smiling. "Well, yeah, but it's nothing to brag about. Anyways how'd it go with Rarity". Spike sighed and looked down. "Eh, she didn't go for the mustache". Twilight Smiled at Spike. "Well, maybe you should trying being yourself. Remember what Apple Bloom" Said? "You don't need facial hair to impress a girl, you're pefect just the way you are" Spike thought for a minute, and smiled. "You know, Maybe you and Apple Bloom are right". Twilight and Spike both laughed afterwards. Preview Twilight recives word from Princess Celestia that a dragon is sleeping in a cave in a mountain. So she and her friends try to get it to move. However, Fluttershy's fear of Dragons may prevent them from complteting their task. Meanwhile, Reiner remebers back to his encounter with the Female Titan during the 57th scouting mission beyond the walls. Next Episode: Dragonshy. Author's Note Characters in order of apperance Spike Twilight Sparkle Apple Bloom Snips Snails Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Applejack Rarity Rainbow Dash Fluttershy Trixie Lulamoon Pinkie Pie Sweetie Drops Lyra Heartstrings Minuette Shoeshine Golden Harvest Cherry Berry Berry Bunch Samatha Cheerelie Amethyst Star Episode 12: Dragonshy: Gala arc Part 5(XLTT Plays) "It's offically begun, the 57th recon mission! Scouts move out"! In the year 850, less then one month after Wall Rose was sealed, The Survey Corps went out on it 57th expedtion beyond the walls. They're mission, secure a route to Shiganshina District which is belived to house the secrets of the Titans. Reiner was riding on his horse. So far Commander Erwin's long distance scouting formation was working wonders, and they've been able to avoid most of the Titans outside the walls. Still, something was eating away at the back of Reiner's mind. "I wonder where Annie is? I hope she's able to come, we need her in order to capture Eren." Reiner was taken out of his thoughts when he saw a black smoke singal flare shoot up into the sky. "Shit, an abmormal". Reiner took off in the direction of the smoke singal arrving in only a few minutes. Once he got there, he saw another soilder sitting on the ground. "Armin"! Reiner called out to the young boy causing him to look up. "Reiner"! "Hey, you need a ride? What the hell are you doing this is full blown Titan territory you can't be without a horse. Climb on". Reiner told Armin, The two of them then began chasing after a Titan. One Reiner recgonized as Annie, but he pretendted to not know what was going on. "I came as fast as I could as soon as I saw the black smoke. Nice ass for an abnormal gotta admit". "It's not an abnormal! It's a person controling a Titan body". Armin explained. "Wait, what"? asked Reiner Armin however had to do something before he could explain. "I'll explain in a bit, but first we need to fire a smoke singal flare". Armin attempted to set up his flare, but he couldn't. "Come on, work you piece of Garbage it's an emergency". Fourtentley though, another soilder, Jean Kirstien fired his own smoke singal shell. "Hey don't worry, looks like Jean's got you covered". Reiner and Armin then noticed a bunch of yellow smoke shells in the air. "Oh man, that's not good. The right wing spotters have suffered to many casualties to move on". Reiner poinited out. "Yeah apparently most of them were wiped out by a Titan ambush, I don't know how it happend, sons of bitches we're lighting fast though, and who ever's left is trying to fend them off". Jean explained as he caught up to Armin and Reiner. Armin then realized something about the Female Titan. "Wait she came from that direction, so dose that mean. Could she have led the Titans here like a commander". Jean looked up, noticing the Female Titan. "Who her? Why the hell is she running from us by the way? Is he abnormal"? "No she isn't, I don't know how it's possible, but she's another human who's taken Titan form, someone who has the same power as Eren"! Armin Explained. "Please say you're not serious". Jean begged. "Really? What makes you so sure"? Reiner asked out of curiousty. Armin thought for a bit, but was able to come up with an answer. "Titans eat people". he began. "But they're not murderers. Sure they kill us in the process, but that's not their intention. This one's different. When the others went for her nape she struck them down, and swatted them like flies. She didn't eat them, she killed them and moved on, that's out of character even for an abnormal". Armin explained. He thought about the situation a little more, and came up with another theory. "The Titans that took out the right wing, I think she brought them here, just like the Colossal and Armored when they struck. I just know it. She's not just simply satasfying bloodlust she has it in for us. Or perhaps, I think she's after someone specifcaly. That just begs the question who, and what for"? Armin thought for a bit before realizing the most likley person. "Hold on could it be Eren"? "Eren? He's with Levi Squad they're spearheading the right wing, or at least, they we're". Reiner stated. This garnered him a confused from both Jean and Armin. "Wait Levi's team? I'm fairly certain you're wrong there big guy my copy of the plan has them on the left wing". Jean responed. "That's odd because my copy has them at the front of the right wing too which now that I think about it wouldn't be smart. Putting them in the vanguard like that wouldn't be safe". Armin theorized. "Well then, where the hell are they supposed to be". asked Reiner. "Come on where else, the safest place in the formation. Which I beilive, would be rear of the center rank". Armin concluded. "Rear of the center rank". Reiner thought to himself. He was then taken out of his thoughts by Jean, who spoke up. "Armin! Now's not the time to be chasing our own heads about this, we have to get word out on how dangerous this one is, smoke flares aren't going to cut it. At this rate she'll cut down the command squad! If we let that happen, everything goes to hell and we're all going to get killed"! "You have an idea"? asked Reiner. "More like a wing, and a prayer. Look we have to find a way to distract her somehow so the plutoon has a chance to retreat. If we're careful from this distance we should be able to manage it, and surivive". Jean responded. Armin looked at Jean intentley. "She's smarter then ones we normaly deal with you can take my word for it, from her ponit of view we're nothing but insects, one swing from that arm and we're all flatten". "Oh, is that right. Gee what a comforting fact to know". Jean stated sarcasticlay. "Alright, who are you and what have you done with Jean Kiristien? No offense, but the one I knew only seemed to care about himself". Reiner pointed out. (Attack on Titan Plays) "Your people skills need work. Believe me friends, I'm still all about number one I just don't want to end up as a pile of bones no one knows we're mine. Thing is, I get it now, I get what we're going to need to do in order to survive this fight, and last time I checked we weren't forced to take on this postion. Now are you with me or not"? Jean asked. Armin and Reiner stared at Jean for a bit before Armin put his hood over his head. "Put your hood up all the way! She won't try to kill you if she can't see your face. If she's looking for someone specifficaly she won't mow us down unless she's certain we're not them". Reiner smiled and copied what Armin did. "Great Idea, as far as she knows anyone of us could be Eren under these hoods, that's actually kind of an encoruging thought. Who knows, maybe she'll be near sighted to boot". Jean looked at Armin before resoping. "Not going to lie, I found it kind of creepy how you always clung to Eren like a security blanket, but I always knew you we're a genius". Armin looked back at Jean in both confusion, and a little hurt. "Oh, um thank you, but calling me creepy was kind of mean". The three of them galloped after the Female Titan, Armin and Jean moving on either side of her, while Reiner stayed directley behind her. When Armin manged to get next to her he noticed something. "She's moving alot more slowly then when she first came after us, tired maybe? Let's hope, if she speeds up we lose her, we have to do this now before she gets her energey back". On Jean's side he was remebering the plan. "Okay guys like we disscuesd. Draw her away from the others so they have a chance to escape, keep her focused on us for as long as possible, giving the rest of the plutoon plenny of time. Cutting her achilles should do the trick, nothing crazy though. If she is what Armin says she is, then we need her alive". Back on Armin's side he was thinking about the Titans weak point. "She knows where her soft spot is so she'll defend it. This is no run of the mill fight. Killing her out of the question. Well for normal people at least so let's just focus on keeping her distracted". Armin thought about Levi and Mikasa, knowing full well that they we're the only ones who could possibly stand a chance "When the time calms maybe they can take her down". Jean leaped off his horse and prepared to go after the Female Titan, only for her to turn around and blow some dust towards his direction. While not blinding Jean it was defentiley enough to distract him. The Female Titan then went after Armin, swatting his which was sent flying over Reiner's head, who ducked, and knocking Armin to the ground and giving him a minor cut on his head. Armin looked up to see the Female Titan over him, his eyes widing in fear, as Jean rushed towards him. "Armin"! Feeling Jean's achor hook in to her, the Female Titan moved fast, which Jean took note of. "The Moves on this one. she's like a damn athlete! We are so dead! We didn't think this through"! The Female Titan stomped on the ground removing Jean's hook, and tried to swat at him. Fortuentley Jean ducked out of they, and tried to go for the nape, only for the Female Titan to block it with her palm, just has Jean hooked in to it. "What? She's protecting her weak spot"? Reiner seeing this rushed towards his friends. "Jean"! "Damnit, there's nothing I can do, I'm a goner, she's going to yank my wire"! However, before the Female Titan could finish Jean off, she was halted when Armin shouted "Jean, Don't let that suicidal bastard die in Vain"! Hearing this caused the Female Titan stop mid swing, confusing Jean greatley "Huh? Why did she stop"? He flew down next to a tree as Armin contuied. "She did it, she killed him! I told him going to the right wing was too dangerous but he didn't listien, and now he's dead because of her". "What's going on, has Armin lost it"? Jean thought to himself. He then noticed Reiner leaping off his horse and going towards the Female Titan, "Reiner? what's he doing"? Jean the realized what was going on as Armin contiued. "She crushed my best friend! I saw it with my on eyes, his intrelies where splattered all over her foot"! "Of course! He has a clear opening while she's focused on Armin". Unfounrtently, The Female Titan noticed Reiner, and proceeded to grab him shocking both Jean, and Armin. However unknown to the two of them, while being crushed Reiner was secretly using his blades to carve a message into Annie's palm. Rear of the Center Rank The Female Titan used her thumb to squeeze Reiner's face, until POP! Jean and Armin both gasped in shock and sadness, beleving Reiner to be dead, as the former stammered in disbelief. "No, it can't be. Reiner". However, as if like magic, Reiner bursted out of the Female Titan's hands, before landing on the ground, grabing Armin, and running away. "That beautiful bastard. Mikasa's been doing so many crazy stuff latley that I let myself forget how much of a badass he is". "I'm sure we we're able to by the plutoon plenny of time, so I say it's time to get out of here"! Reiner stated as the Female Titan began running away, which he took noticed off. "Look! That Titan's scared and running home"! But Armin realized where The Female Titan was really going. "No, she's not retreating. She's heading towards the center rank. Where Eren is". (Equestria) Reiner awoke in his bed, and stretched with a yawn. "Why am I thinking about that day"? The sun rose near Fluttershy's cottage as she opened her door, ready to feed her animals. For the next fiffteen or so minutes, she made sure all her little furry friends we're fed and well taken care of before coming up to her pet bunny angel who was chewing on a carrot. "Not too fast now, Angel Bunny. You don't wanna get a tummy ache". she warned. Hearing this, Angel decieded he was done, but Fluttershy wasn't satisfyed and tried to get him to finish. "You really should eat more than that, don't you think"? Angel just ignored her, and began to hop away, only for Fluttershy to stop him. "It's not play time yet. I know you want to run, but... just three more bites"?. she asked. Angel Rufused. "Two more bites"? Fluttershy asked. Angel Refused again. "One more bite"? Fluttershy asked. Angel still Refused. "Alright". Fluttershy sighed, and began to walk away when she heard Angel coughing. "Oh, goodness. Are you okay"? she asked Angel kept coughing. "Are you coughing because there's a carrot stuck in your throat"? asked Fluttershy. Angel kept coughing. "Do you need water"? Fluttershy asked. Angel coughed again, and pointed up to the sky, causing Fluttershy to look up as well, and what she saw scared her to her very core, and she gasped "Because of that giant cloud of scary black smoke"? Angel gave her a dissapproving look. "I'll take that as a yes". Fluttershy ran into the park hoping to warn everyone of the smoke she saw. "Help. Help! Please? Help? There's- there's a horrible cloud of smoke. It's headed this way and-" She screamed in shock when Rainbow Dash landed next to her, bouncing a ball on her head "Don't be such a scaredy-pony. It's just me, future Equestria ball-bouncing record holder. Three forty six, three forty seven"... Pinkie Pie came over with a huge smile on her face "This calls for a celebration"! she exclaimed. Fluttershy however knew that this was no time to be silly, and she tried to tell Pinkie Pie that "Oh, no, Pinkie Pie, this is no time for celebration. This is a time for panic, for-" But Pinkie intteruppted Fluttershy before the pegagus could finish. "Ooo! I'm going to need balloons! One for every pony in Ponyville"! Fluttershy meanwhile kept trying to tell her two could friends about the situation. "There's- there's smoke. And- and where there's smoke, there's fire. And-" But niether of them we're listening to her as they we're both now focusing on Rainbow Dash bouncing the ball. "Let's see, that's one, two, three, four"... Pinkie Counted "Three hundred fifty four"... Dash Counted "Five, six".. Pinkie Counted. "Three hundred fifty five", Rainbow Dash counted, but she soon lost count due to Pinkie's counting. "Seven". Pinkie Counted. Now Rainbow Dash had compltely lost track, and was now looking at Pinkie in frustration. "Damnit Pinkie Pie Now I have to start over". Fluttershy again tried to tell them about the smoke. "We're all going to have to start over, in a new village. 'Cause ours is gonna be-" But Rainbow Dash was already walking away, with Pinkie Pie following after. "Rainbow Dash wait up"! "Damnit"! Fluttershy thought as she ran after them. Reaching the middle of the park, Fluttershy tried to get somepony, anypony's attetion. "Oh, please, this is an emergency. I-I need everypony to-" Fluttershy was again intterupeted, this time by Twilight Sparkle. "Listen up! Smoke is spreading over all of Equestria". All of the ponies now noticed the smoke and gasped in shock, while Fluttershy looked down. "That's what I was trying to say". Twilight then contiued. "But don't worry, I've just received a letter from Princess Celestia informing me that it is not coming from a fire". Fluttershy sighed in relief, now knowing that the forest wasn't in danger of burning down, but she soon felt a cold swet run down her when she heard what Twilight said next. "It's coming from a dragon". "A... d-dragon"? Currently Publicly Available Information The Long-Distance Scouting Formation. A theory devised by Scout Regiment Commander Erwin Smith. Since implementing this formation, the Scout Regiment's survival rate outside the Walls has drastically increased. To describe it in simple terms, this formation is like a human-powered radar. By allowing Erwin, who sits in the center of the formation, to quickly know about Titan spottings, it is possible for the group to change direction before encountering that Titan. (Megata Kyojin Kuchiku Plays) Inside of the Golden oak Library, a group of Eight Ponies were getting ready to go and confront the dragon. They consited of Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Reiner Braun, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Bertholdt Hoover, and Fluttershy. "What in the name of all things cinnamon swirled is a full-grown dragon doing here in Equestria"? asked Applejack. "Sleeping". Twilight answered. "Huh"? The others asked. "According to Princess Celestia, he's taking a nap. His snoring is what's causing all this smoke". Twilight contiued. "He should really see a doctor. That doesn't sound healthy at all". Pinkie suggested. "Well at least he's not snoring fire, that would be devastating, but what are we suppose to do about it"? asked Rarity. "I'll tell you what we're meant to do. Give him the boot. Take that. And that"! Dash stated. Twilight however shook her head. "No Dash, we need to convince him to move somewhere else to take his nap. Princess Celestia has given us this mission, and we must not fail. If we do, Equestria will be covered in smoke for the next one hundred years". Hearing this caused the others the gasp, they knew now that they needed to get rid of this dragon as soon as possible. "Woah, talk about getting your beauty rest". Rarity pointed out. "All right everypony, I need you to gather supplies quickly. We've got a long journey ahead of us. Let's meet back here in less than an hour". Twilight said. Seven of the ponies nodded they're heads while Fluttershy meekley stepped back, something both Reiner and Bertholdt took noticed of. The others however didn't as Rainbow Dash flew in between Rarity, and Pinkie Pie with a huge grin on her face. "Okay guys, you heard her. The fate of Equestria is in our hooves. Do we have what it takes"? Rarity, Pinkie, and Applejack all nodded. "Umm actually". Fluttershy began. "Let's Go". Said Applejack, "Umm, let's"...... not Fluttershy said meekley, but again, she was fallen on deaf hears as the others left to get ready for the mission. At her home in cloudsdale, Rainbow Dash dabbed some warrior paint on her cheaks. At Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack's family was putting sides into her saddlebag, Apple Bloom walked up to her big sister and gave her a hug. "Be careful". she said. "Don't worry Apple Bloom, I'll be fine". Applejack reassured her. Pinkie Pie came out of sugarcube corner with her saddle bag on. Rarity put on an army hat she really liked. Reiner and Bertholdt came out of their house with they're supplies And Fluttershy came out of her cottage in a helemet, and a bunch of pillows around her body, flinching when her door slammed behind her. Back in town, Twilight was informing her friends of the plan she came up with. "All right guys listen up. I'm mapping out the fastest route, but we've all got to keep a good pace if we expect to make it up the mountain by nightfall". Hearing this caused Fluttershy stammer in nervousness. "M-m-mountain"? "The Dragon's in a cave at the very stop". Twilight responed. "Seems pretty high up". AJ Pointed out. "Not to mention very cold". Stated Bertholdt. Rainbow Dash flew over with a look of huge exicetment on her face. "You bet it is. The higher you go, the chillier it gets". "Which is why I brought my scarf". Rarity pointed out. "Oh, yeah, that should keep you warm". Dash pointed out. Twilight, and Reiner we're looking at the map, while Fluttershy was trying to get their attention. "Um, excuse me, Twilight, Reiner? I know you two are busy busy, but"... They however couldn't hear her. "Uh-huh. Well, we could go this way". Twilight stated to Reiner. Fluttershy tried again. "But if I could just have a second"... Again she was ignored. "Uh-huh. No, we want to avoid that". Reiner pointed out. "So, um, I was thinking that, um, maybe I should just stay here in Ponyville". Fluttershy said. "Uh-huh". Twilight nodded. This caused Fluttershy to beam in delight. Oh! Good. I'll stay here and- That finally got Twilight and Reiner's attention, who both looked at Fluttershy in alarm. "What! no you have to come"! Twilight exlcaimed. "Yeah Fluttershy, your way with wild animals could really come in handy". Reiner told her. "I don't think I-" Fluttershy began, only for Twilight to intterupt her. "Oh, and don't worry about your little friends in the meadow. Spike's got it covered while you're gone". Spike nodded in response. "You can count on me Fluttershy"! Fluttershy however stilled tried to convince Twilight and Reiner to let her stay behind. "I don't really think he's up to the task. Maybe... but... but"... Rainbow Dash also thought Fluttershy should stay behind, and she voiced this opinon to Twilight, and Reiner. "Are you sure you want Fluttershy to come along? I mean, that pony's afraid of her own shadow. She's just going to slow us down". Twilight just shurgged off Dash's concens. "Oh, she's just a little nervous. Once we get going, I'm sure she'll be fine. Okay, which way do you think we should go Reiner"? Reiner took the map from Twilight. Staring intentley at it as he tried to pinpoint the best direction to take. Finally, he was able to figure out the best route to take. "Alright, I think I know the direction we should go, come on everyone". Fluttershy still tried to convice her friends to not let her come. "But...... But....... no"! However her friends didn't pay her any mind, forcing her to follow after the others. And so, our fearless heroes, and Twilight Sparkle, set off, on their mission the get rid of the Dragon. Arriving out the foot of the mountain the group reealed back in shock when the heard a loud sound, causing Fluttershy to hide behind Applejack. "Woah, what was that"? asked Rainbow Dash. "The sound of a Dragon snoring". Twilight Replied. Fluttershy peaked out from behind Applejack, and stared up at the mountain. "It- it's so... high"! she stammered. "Well it is a mountain Rainbow Dash pointed out. I'm gonna fly up and check it out". she stated only to be pulled back down by Applejack. "Hold on, now. I think we should all go up together. Safety in numbers and all". Rainbow Dash sighed in annoyance. "Oh alright". The Mane Eight began walking up the side of the cliff, all of them wondering what to expect. Rarity in particulary was intrested in a so called tresure she believed the dragon would have. "I hear the only thing that sparkles more than a dragon's scales are the jewels they use to build their nests. Ooo, if I play my cards right, I might be able to convince him to part with a few"! Pinkie Pie found this amuzing and began to joke with Rarity by mocking the dragon. "Welcome to my cave, Rarity. Care for a diamond"? Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie all started laughing, only to be stopped by Reiner. "Girls! This isn't the time to be joking around"! He stated before calling out to Fluttershy. "Fluttershy, you're the expert on wild creatures. What do you think the Dragon will be like"? When Reiner didn't get an answer, he looked around in confusion. "Fluttershy"? The ponies looked down, and saw Fluttershy peak her head out from behind a bush at the bottom of the cliff. "Hey! What are you waiting for? An invitation"? asked Rainbow Dash, in clear annoyance. "Ooo! I think I have one in my bag"! Exlclaimed Pinkie Pie. "That was a rhetorical question". Dash replied "I-it's so... so... steep". Fluttershy stammered. "Well it is a cliff, why not just fly up here"! Rainbow Dash stated "Yeah! Pinkie cried trying to encourge Fluttershy. Flap thoes wings". "Oh.... Ok"... Fluttershy began to fly up, but the Dragon snored again, causing her to shut her wings, and fall back to ground, making Twilight more frustrated "Uh, we don't have time for this". She then noticed Reiner taking the map from her. "What are you doing"? she asked. "I'm going to need this if I'm going to take her around the mountain another way". Reiner replied. "Another way! That's gonna take them forever". Rainbow Dash complained. "I'll go with you"! Applejack stated. "Thanks AJ". Reiner replied. The two of them made it down to where Fluttershy was, just as the Dragon snored again causing the pegagus to faint. Applejack helepd hoist Fluttershy on to Reiner's back, before calling up to Twilight. "Don't worry, Twi. We'll be there lickety-split". As Applejack and Reiner began walking around the mountain with Fluttershy, the pegagus couldn't do anything to resisit and try to run away. "Why? Why are they trying to take me with them? Don't they know I'll just be a burden to them"? Fluttershy was taken out of her thoughts when she heard Applejack's voice. "I know you're nervous Fluttershy, but Remember we're this together. Just remember, to trust us". Hearing those words cause Fluttershy to remember back to a time in her past. (Everfree Forest. Year 845) (VC-PF20130218 Plays) A ten year old Fluttershy ran through the trees as fast as her little hooves could go, despreately trying to find the way out of this horrible place. She had gone into the forest to get a closer look at a cute animal she spotted, only for her to get lost. Getting more and more exhausted, Fluttershy finally cololapsed next to a tree, and began to sob. She kept on crying until she heard russleing in the bushes, think it to be a monster, or worse, Fluttershy began to tremble in fear, but stopped when two Earth Ponies and a Unicorn filly walked through the bushes. One of them immeditly ran up to Fluttershy and began talking super fast. "HiImPinkiePiewhat'syournamebecauseI'veneverseenyoubeforeand". The Pink earth pony was pulled back by the orange one. "Slow down their Pinkie Pie, She seemes to be a little nervous". The orange filly walked up to Fluttershy, and began to slowly walk up to her. "Hey there, I'm Applejack, this here's Pinkie Pie, and That's Rarity. What's your name"? "I'm Fluttershy" "What was that"? asked Applejack "Flutteshy" "You're gonna need to speak up". "FLUTTERSHY"! The pegagus filly gapsed in shock and quickly coverd her mouth in both embarrasment, and fear. Applejack just smiled. "Nice to meet ya Fluttershy". "So, what are you doing out here in the forest darling"? asked Rarity. "Well, I was following this really cute animal I saw, and I ended up getting lost". Fluttershy said, before once again beiginning to cry. "Hey now, don't start the waterworks, It's okay, just come with us. We know the way". Applejack stated. "You...... You do"? Fluttershy asked. "Eeyup! Trust us". Applejack replied. (Back in the Present) "That's right. It's because they trust me, and I need to trust them". Fluttershy thought to herself. Fluttershy didn't know how long it had been, but they finally met up with the others. "We made it". Reiner called out as Rainbow Dash flew next to Twilight. "Told you it was going to take them forever". The group soon made it to a small gap in the cliff. Knowing they had to complte the mission they all began to jump across the gap. All of the, expcept Fluttershy. "Your turn Fluttershy". Twilight called out to her. Fluttershy looked across the ledge, only to timidly move back. "But... it's so... wide". "Come on Fluttershy, we should have gotten much further by now". Twilight pointed out. "You can always leap across". Applejack stated. Fluttershy considered, only to stop herself when she heard the Dragon snore again. "I'm not sure". Seeing that Fluttershy was nervous, Pinkie Pie decieded to help encourage her the best way she new how "There's nothing to be afraid of. It's just a hop, skip and a jump. See"? She then started to sing. [b"It's not very far Just move your little rump You can make it if you try with a hop, skip and jump"] "We don't have time for this". Twilight tried to point out, only to be ignored by Pinkie Pie as she contiued her song. "A hop, skip and jump, Just move your little rump, A hop, skip and jump, A hop, skip and jump, A hop, skip and jump, A hop skip and jump, A hop skip and jump"! Fluttershy attempted to use Pinkie's words as a form of encourgement. "O-okay. Here I go. A hop". "That's it. Applejack" supported. "You've got it". Said Twilight. "Almost There". Said Rarity. "Skip". Said Fluttershy. "Just don't look down". Twilight stated. Unfourtently, that's exactaly what Fluttershy did. She whimpered in fright, and blindly leaped across, landing on Rainbow Dash's back who groaned in frustration. "Guess I didn't jump". Fluttershy chuckled. Soon the ponies made it to another part of the cliff. As they we're walking Reiner was warning them about the dangers of the area they we're in. "Stay quiet everyone. According to the map, this place is prone to avalances. The smallest peep could cause a huge rock slide". Hearing this only seemed to increase Fluttershy's nerves. "An... an ava... ava..." Twilight quickly shushed her, but soon a small leaf landed on Fluttershy's back causing her to panic. "AVALA"-! Reiner quickly covered Fluttershy's in despration, but his efforts we're unsucessful, as the group heard a loud rumbling (Attack on Titan Plays) Everyone looked up to see a bunch of rocks falling towards them "Avalanche"! the girls screamed, as they all ran trying their best to avoid the falling rocks, some of them almost hit Twilight. "Oh no! Help! Ooh"! Fourtentley, Reiner pushed her out of the way, and soon enought the whole thing was over. "Phew. Everyone alright". asked Applejack. "Yeah, I am. Thanks to Reiner". Twilight said. Don't mention it. Reiner replied. Pinkie Pie burst up with a huge smile on her face. "Whoo-hoo! Let's do it again"! Rarity on the other hoof was not in the mood to go through something like that ever again, and insted went to like through her bag. "This is why a girl always packs extra supplies". She stated as she pulled out a scarf. "Oh please tell me I brought the tiara that goes with this". Rainbow Dash however couldn't be bothered by either Rarity, or Pinkie Pie's wants, or problems, as there we're bigger issues they had to deal with. "Uh, think we got bigger problems than making sure our hair bows match our horseshoes". Looking to see what Rainbow Dash was reffering to, the group's hearts sank when they saw that the rockslide had blocked the path. Fluttershy, knowing she was the reason for the avalance looked down in shame. "Sorry". she said sheepishly. "Aw, no big whoop, sugarcube". Applejack said trying to comfort Fluttershy. Twilight, also tried to reassure Fluttershy. "Yeah, we just have to......." But Twilight soon realised their situation, and sighed in despair. "Climb over". So that's what, they did, the Mane Eight climb over the mountain. However, Fluttershy once again got scared, and slid down the moutain, crashing into Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie. "My apolgies". Rarity stated, as Rainbow Dash flew over to them with an angry look on her face. "Not your fault". she said Glaring at Fluttershy. Bertholdt, who had been taking noticed of how Dash had been treating Fluttershy glared at the cyan pegagus, who took noticed. "What"!? she snapped at the stalion. "Nothing". Bertholdt said putting his head down. "Good". Rainbow Dash stated turning around. "If I we're you, I'd keep my mouth shut Bertholdt Hoover". Rainbow Dash coldy stated before flying over to Twilight, and Reiner. "Still think it was a good idea to bring Fluttershy along"? "We're about to find out, we're here". Twilight stated. Once the group made it to the cave entrance, Twilight, and Reiner began to discuss the plan with the others. "Rainbow Dash, you'll use your wings to clear the smoke". Said Reiner. "Right". Dash Replied. "Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Bertholdt you'll create a diversion to distract the dragon if things get a little hairy in there". Twilight Stated The three of them nodded. "Applejack, you're ready with the apples in case he decides to attack. But it shouldn't come to that, because Fluttershy will do what she needs to do to wake him up, and between the two of us, we should be able to get him to understand why he needs to go. Is everypony ready"? Asked Reiner. The group save for Fluttershy nodded their heads. Twilight smiled, and turned to Fluttershy. "Okay then, we're goin' in. Fluttershy, what's the best way for waking up a sleeping dragon". But Fluttershy didn't answer. "Fluttershy"? Twilight looked around and saw Fluttershy with her head burried in the sand. Groaning in frustration, Twilight walked over to Fluttershy and attempted to push her into the gave. "Oh, come on! There's no time for this. Every second longer the dragon sleeps, the more smoke he realseses". The rest of their friends all came and tried to get Fluttershy to move. "I can't go in the cave". Fluttershy stated. "What"? Reiner asked. "Oh wonderful. She's afraid of caves now". Rainbow Dash stated. "No! I'm not. I'm scared of Dragons"! Fluttershy stated. As soon as Fluttershy said that, more smoke came out of the cave, causing her to hide behind Applejack. Once the smoke cleared, Reiner went up to the peagus. "But Fluttershy. You have a wonderful talent dealing with all kinds of animals". "Yes, because they aren't dragons". Rainbow Dash couldn't believe what she was hearing, especsially after seeing what Fluttershy did during their battle with Nightmare Moon. "Oh come on! We've seen you walk right up to a horrible manticore like it was nothing". "Yes. Fluttershy replied. Because he wasn't, a dragon". Pinkie Pie then decieded to remind Fluttershy of Spike. "Spike is a dragon. You're not scared of him". "Yes". Fluttershy replied. "Because he's not a huge, gigantic, terrifying, enormous, teeth-gnashing, sharp-scale having, horn-wearing, smoke-snoring, could eat a pony in one bite, totally all grown-up dragon"! "But why didn't you tell us you we're afraid of Dragons"?! asked Twilight. "I was afraid too. Fluttershy stated", but then Bertholdt spoke up. "No! It was because we didn't listen to you, all of us we're so worried about how to deal with the Dragon that none of us took into account your own feelings on the matter". He turned, and stared directley at Rainbow Dash who stared back and him. "You've been the worst! You've done nothing but complain about Fluttershy this entire trip like some hipocrit"! Rainbow Dash gasped in shock at what she was told. "How Dare You"! She snapped. "You've hardly said a word this entire trip, and when finally do decied to speak it's to defend her"!? Dash asked while harshy pointing at Fluttershy who looked down in shame. "See! There you go, treating your friend like she's nothing! It's like you don't even care about Fluttershy"! Bertholdt shouted back. "Of course I care about her! I've known her longer then you after all, but we have a mission to take care of, and that is to get rid of this Dragon"! The two of them kept going back and force, until Twilight finally had enough. "Both of you stop"! Rainbow Dash, and Bertholdt both looked at Twilight. "We don't have time for this, we need to deal with this problem". Twilight stated before turning to Applejack. Applejack smiled knowing what to do, she walked up to Fluttershy, who was still tremebling in fear. "All of us are afraid of that Dragon". Applejack told Fluttershy, only for Dash to intterup. "I'm not"! Applejack side in frustration, but contiuted. "Almost all of us are afraid of that dragon, but we've got a job to do, and I know you have what it takes to help get rid of that Dragon, if you just trust us". Fluttershy looked at her friends, who we're all giving her supportive looks, except for Rainbow Dash who just rolled her eyes, and groaned impaceintley. "I can't" Fluttershy stated, and she walked away. "Fluttershy"! Wait, Bertholdt shouted following after her. Reiner sighed, and looked at Twilight. "I'm going after them". Twilight looked at Reiner and nodded. "Ok. Well try to figure out what to do here". Reiner followed after Fluttershy and Bertholdt, and Twilight shot a glare at Rainbow Dash who looked back at her in confusion. "What"? asked Dash. "What Bertholdt said was true! Twilight began. You have been extremley cruel to Fluttershy, constantly complaining about her, and blamming her for all the things that happened"! Twilight said as Rainbow Dash looked down in shame, knowing that Twilight, and Bertholdt we're right. "I'll go aplogize to her". Rainbow Dash stated. "It'll have to wait, at least until we deal with the problem at hand". Twilight stated. "Well, what are we going to do", asked Rarity. Twilight looked at her friends, who all had confused looks on their faces. Twilight then sighed. "I'm going in, He probaly doesn't even know what he's doing. Right"?. Twilight walked into the cave, silentley trying to get the dragon's attention in a way as to not anger it. "Mr Dragon, Hello, Mr. Dragon". Twilight finally made it up to the dragon, who groggly opened his eyes to look at her. "Oh good, you're awake, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Twilight". Before Twilight could finish, the dragon blew a jet of stinky breath into her face. Despite the smell, Twilight contiued. "Sparkle, and my friends and I are residents here in Equestria. Ponyville, to be exact. We've come here to ask that you find another spot to take your nap. It's just that you seem to be doing an awful lot of snoring, and every time you do you send out a terrible cloud of smoke. Equestria simply can't survive a hundred years in a dark haze. You understand, don't you"? The dragon just stared at Twilight. "So you'll leave right"? Twilight asked. The dragon did not leave, he just closed his eyes, and went back to sleep, but not before blowing out another breath of smoke, causing Twilight and the other girls to cough. "So much for persuasion". Dash commeted. "Now what"? asked AJ. Rarity gave her friends a smile, and stepped up. "Obviously, this situation just calls for a little "pony charm". Allow me, girls". With that, Rarity walked into the cave, and up to the dragon waking him up. "I'm so sorry to interrupt. But I couldn't possibly head back home without mentioning what handsome scales you have". Hearing this caused the dragon to smile, he let Rarity contiune. "And thoes scales being hidden away for a hundred years in some dirty cave". The dragon thought for a bit, this pony had a point after all, he was a grand dragon, and the world should see his glory. "Personally, I believe you should skip the snoozing and be out showing them off". Unfourtently it was what Rarity said next the caused her plan to backfire. "Of course I would be more then happy to keep an eye on your jewels while you're gone". Hearing this, angerd the dragon greatly, and he snatched his treasure away from Rarity who ran out of the cave. "Damnit I was this close to getting one of those diamonds". She whined. "You mean getting rid of the dragon"? Twilight asked. "Oh um yes". Rarity replied nervously. The girls sat around pondering their next move, when they heard a horn blow. They turned around to see Pinkie in some weird costume "What in sam hell are you wearing Pinkie Pie"? asked Applejack. "You look ridiculous". Rarity stated. Pinkie just smiled. "Exactly! Sharing a laugh is a sure-fire way to get someone on your side"! Pinkie walked into the cave. "Hi". she said. The girls waited only to hear a loud crash and see Pinkie Pie walking out of the cave. "Apparently he doesn't like laughing, heh. Or sharing". Rainbow Dash had finally had enough and decieded to handle the situation the way she wanted to from the very start. " All right, that's it. We tried persuasion, charm, whatever it is Pinkie Pie does, it's time to stop wasting time! I'm going in"! Rainbow Dash flew into the cave, as Twilight tried to stop her. "Raindow, wait"! But Dash didn't listen, and insted flew up to the dragon kicking him into the nose. "Get! Out"! she shouted. This however only caused the dragon the sneeze, and then roar and Rainbow Dash. "Sorry". she said sheepishly. The Dragon knocked Dash out of the cave. The girls looked up to see the Dragon stepping out of the cave, glaring at them angrily. Meanwhile behind a boulder, Bertholdt and Reiner had found Fluttershy, and we're talking to her. "Fluttershy, you know Rainbow Dash didn't mean what she said". Reiner told her. "Yeah, you have some many talents. I know you're scared but we believe in you, and I know you can face your fears if you just try". Bertholdt stated. Fluttershy looked down. "I'm sorry you guys, but I just can't do it. I". Fluttershy was intteruptted when she, Reiner, and Berthold heard a loud crash. They looked up to see the dragon staring menceingly at their friends, who we're trembeling in fear. Seeing this, all of a sudden caused Fluttershy to get very angry. "How dare you. How Dare You"! Fluttershy flew write up to the Dragon as Bertholdt tried to stop her. "Fluttershy stop"! But Fluttershy ignored him, and got right into the dragon's face. "Listen here, mister. Just because you're big doesn't mean you get to be a bully! You may have huge teeth, and sharp scales, and snore smoke, and breathe fire. But you do not—I repeat—you do not hurt my friends! Understand"? The dragon backed off after Fluttershy's scolding, and tried to defend his actions. "But that rainbow one kicked me". "And I am very sorry about that". Fluttershy told the dragon. "But you're bigger than she is, and you should know better. You should also know better than to take a nap where your snoring can become a health hazard to other creatures". She told him. "But I". the dragon began only for Fluttershy to intterupt him. "Don't you 'but I' me, mister. Now what do you have to say for yourself"? When the dragon didn't answer, Fluttershy repated her question. "I said. What do you have to say for yourself". The dragon could do nothing but cry, as Fluttershy comforted him. "There, there. No need to cry. You're not a bad dragon, you just made a bad decision. Now go pack your things. You just need to find a new place to sleep. That's all". The dragon agreed and left Equestria to take his nap somewhere else while the others cheered for Fluttershy, "You did it! I knew you could". Said Bertholdt. Back in ponyville the other pegasi we're clearing up the smoke, while Spike was inside the golden oak libary trying to deal with Fluttershy's animals. "I said come back here! Ooh! How does Fluttershy put up with you furry little things"? Twilight then walked into the room, and told Spike to write a note to the princess. "Spike, take a letter". "With pleasure". Spike sighed in relief. "Dear Princess Celestia, I am happy to report that the dragon has departed our fair country, and that it was my good friend, Fluttershy, who convinced him to go. This adventure has taught me to never lose faith in your friends. They can be an amazing source of strength, and can help you overcome even your greatest fears. Always your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle". Once Spike sent the letter, Applejack called out to Twilight. "Twilight! You gotta come see this! Dash is just five away from a new pony record"! Twilight came out to see Rainbow Dash bouncing the ball off of her head, and counting. "Three hundred forty-seven, three hundred forty-eight..." However she was intterupted by a roar. "Dragon"! She screamed in fright, while the others to laugh. "Why are you guys laughing, that horrible dragon is back". she asked, only to see that it was Pinkie who roared. "Pinkie Pie, you scared me"! Dash said, before quickly catching herself. "I mean, uh, you... broke my concentration". "It's alright Rainbow Dash, Not everyone can be brave like me". Fluttershy stated. Only for a leaf to land on her flank again, causing her to faint, and everyone to laugh. Preview During a masssive Storm, Twilight decieds to invite Applejack and Rarity over for a slumber party. Unfourtently Applejack, and Rarity's rivarly may ruin all the fun slumber parites are suppose to have. Next Episode. Look Before you Sleep. Author's Note Characters in order of appearance. Erwin Smith (Flashback) Hange Zoe (Flashback) Miche Zachurius (Flashback) Levi Ackerman (Flashback) Petra Ral (Flashback) Eld Jinn (Flashback) Oruo Bozad (Flashback) Gunther Schultz (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Reiner Braun Armin Arlert (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt/Female Titan (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Luke Sis (Flashback within a Flashback) Dieter Ness (Flashback within a Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback within a Flashback) Fluttershy Angel Bunny Minnuette Golden Harvest Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Lily Valley Rose Daisy Amethsty Star Rainbow Dash Pinkie Pie Twilight Sparkle Applejack Rarity Bertholdt Hoover Granny Smith Big Macintosh Apple Bloom Spike Razer Episode 13: Look Before You Sleep: Gala arc Part 6The sun shown brightly over ponyville, at least it did for a few mintues, until one of the pegasai blocked it with a cloud as the citizens of Ponyville we're getting ready for a massive storm the pegasi head planned for that day, and serveral ponies we're helping out. Applejack was using her lassso to pull branches off of trees that we're in danger of snaping, Rarity was using her magic to move another branch, Apple Bloom, Big Macintosh, and Reiner we're moving leaves out of the way, and Bertholdt was of course helping move the clouds into position. Rarity looked up at her work, and smiled. "Hmm. Hah! Perfect". Applejack spit the branch out of her mouth and scowled at Rarity. "Just take the broken limbs down, Rarity. Don't y'all care about nothin' other than prettifyin"? Rarity, simply scoffed at Applejack, and contiued her work. "Somepony has to. You were making an absolute mess of the town square, Applejack". "Yeah, well, the storm's gonna make an even bigger mess if we don't prune all these loose branches so they don't tumble down on anypony". Applejack responed. "Applejack's right Rarity, we need to make sure everything and everyone is safe from the storm". Apple Bloom stated. Rarity sighed, and looked up at the sky. "I simply cannot imagine why the Pegasus ponies would schedule a dreadful downpour this evening and ruin what could have been a glorious sunny day". "It has to happen, the pegasai acciedently skipped a scheduled sprinkle last week, so we need to have a massive storm in order to make up for it". Reiner told her, as Bertholdt flew down next to them. "How's everything going on down here". He asked. "We're just about finshed". Apple Bloom said. "Right Big Mac"? "Eeyup". The Stailion responed. A gust of wind then gust past the six ponies, causing Applejack to look up. "That's storm's gonna be here soon. Apple Bloom, Big Mac, why don't you two head on home, before it starts to get really bad". "Are you sure Applejack"? asked Apple Bloom. "I'm sure, you've done a great job with helping, don't worry, we can finish the rest up". Applejack told her little sister. Apple Bloom sighed, but decieded to listen to Applejack. "Alright." she sighed, as Big Mac hoisted Apple Bloom and began walking back to Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack then turned to the other two stalions. "Reiner, Bertholdt how about you head back too, Rarity, and I got this". "Are you sure? Bertholdt and I could still help you out". Reiner stated. Don't you worry none. we got this. Applejack stated. "Alright, but don't stay out for too long you two, we don't need you catching colds, or worse. Reiner told them". "Don't worry, we'll be fine". Applejack stated. Unfourtently for her and Rarity, as soon as Reiner and Bertholdt left, it started pouring. "Oh no! My wonderfully styled mane shall be ruined"! Rarity complained. "Ya shoulda hurried up and finished the job already". Applejack told her, but Rarity wasn't listiening, and began to panic, and run around. "Oh! Ah! Oh! Ph! It's coming down too fast! Ah! Oh! Oh! Ah! Help me"! Applejack sighed, and looked around, before spotting a small bench that was big enough for Rarity to fit under. "Uh, there. Hunker down to yer heart's content whilst I finish things". Rarity saw the bench, and shook her head. "No way"! "What now"? asked an annoyed Applejack. "I will not, get my hooves dirty". Rarity stated causing Applejack to groan. "There is just no pleasin' ya, is there? Everything's got to be just so". Rarity scoffed at Applejack's statment. "Well, and how does muddying my hooves serve any useful purpose"? "Y'all wouldn't know useful if it came up and bit'cha". Applejack stated. "That makes no sense". Said Rarity. "Does so". argued Applejack. "Does not". argued Rarity "Does so". argued Applejack. "Does not". argued Rarity "Does so". argued Applejack. "Does not". argued Rarity "Does so". argued Applejack. "Does not". argued Rarity "Does so infinity. Hah". Applejack shot. "Does not infinity plus one". Rarity shout back, before sighing. "What say we go our separate ways before one of us says something she will regret"? "I reckon y'all are gonna say something you'll regret first". Applejack ponited out. "On the contrary, I believe it shall most certainly be you who says something you will regret first". Rarity responed. "I'm not saying anything". Stated Applejack. "Nor I am". Rarity shot back. The two of them stood in place for a second before Applejack spoke up. "Y'all just be on yer way, then". "After you". Stated Rarity. But before either of them could get far, a loud clap of thunder startled both of them into getting back under the bench. "Perhaps we should stick together for now and find some shelter". Rarity stated. "Uh-huh, perhaps we should. And fast". Applejack agreed. As the rain kept pouring around them, Applejack and Rarity remaind huddled together with Applejack trying to make light of the situation. "Heh. Nice and dry under here, sorta". Rarity however was none too pleased with their predicament. "Oh! Unacceptable". The two of them stayed under the bench for a few more minutes when they heard the voice of Twilight Sparkle calling out to them. "Applejack! Rarity! Applejack! Rarity"! Twilight? They said back. "Quickly, come inside". Twilight called out again. The ponies got out from under the bench and sprinted towards the Golden Oak Library, but before Applejack enterted, she stopped. "Whoa, nelly. Is inside a tree really the best place to be in a lightning storm"? She asked. "It is if you have a magical lightning rod protecting your home like I do. Come on in"! Twilight answerd. Rairty shook the water out of her mane, and smiled at Twilight. "Hah! We are most grateful for your invitation". "Yeah, thank ya kindly for yer hospitality". Applejack nodded in agreement, before getting a look of worry on her face. "Applejack, what's wrong"? asked Twilight. "I just hope, That Big Mac, and Apple Bloom, made it back home safetly. Reiner and Bertholdt too". Applejack stated. Back at Sweet Apple Acres Granny Smith was pacing around back and force looking worridly out the window, when the door opended, and Big Mac, and Apple Bloom stepped inside. "Phew! It's really coming down". Apple Bloom pointed out. "Eeyup". Big Mac responeded. Granny Smith walked over to them with a smile on her face, before noticing that they we're alone. "Where's yer sister". She asked. Apple Bloom looked up at her grandmother. "Applejack said she was going to finsish up in town, and catch up to us, but then it just started pouring, and now she's still out there". "Don't you worry now AB. Big Mac reassured his sister, I'm sure Applejack, and Rarity both found shelter". Granny Smith nodded. "That's right, Applejack is resorceful, and knows how to get out of tight situations". "Okay". Apple Bloom stated, but she was still unsure if her sister would be alright. On the other side of town, Reiner, and Bertholdt stepped into their house and shut the door. "Man, It's really coming down". Reiner stated. Bertholdt nodded in agreement. "I hope, Applejack, and Rarity manged to find shelter". Reiner looked at his friend. "Don't worry, I'm sure they're fine". He stated as Bertholdt looked out the window. Back at Twilight's house, Rarity looked at Applejack, and saw that she was a little dirty. "Uh, do be a polite house guest and go wash up please, won't you"? Applejack grumbled in annoyance at Rarity's complaint but did what she was asked, not without complaing to herself of course. "If I gotta spend one more second with that fussbudget Rarity today, I can't be held responsible for what I'm gonna do". Twilight on the other hoof was looking out at the storm going on outside. "Some storm, huh? The Pegasus ponies sure have outdone themselves this time. I hope you and Applejack don't have any trouble getting home". she said to Rarity. Rarity nodded in agreement. "It may indeed be a problem". "Well, you're welcome to stay if need be. Spike is away in Canterlot on royal business. I'm home all alone tonight". Twilight offered. Then an idea flew into her head, and a huge smile appeared on her face. "You and Applejack should totally sleep over! We'll have a slumber party! I've always wanted one of those". A look of horror suddendly appeared on Rarity's face. The thought of spending all night with Applejack sounded dreadful. So she quickly tried to come up with an excuse. "Oh! Uh, goodness. Uh, I do believe I have another engagement scheduled for this evening that completely slipped my mind until just now. Ah, silly me, I can't possibly stay here all night -- with Applejack". Rarity was about to leave, when she noticed Twilight of course reading a book. "Slumber 101: All You've Ever Wanted to Know About Slumber Parties But Were Afraid to Ask"? "My own personal copy. It's a fantastic reference guide. You should see the table of contents. I've been waiting for a chance to use it, and today is the day! This is gonna be so great"! Twilight answered. "Yes, uh, great". Rarity chuckled nervously. Back at Sweet Apple Arces, Apple Bloom was sitting on the couch looking out the window. She was of course waiting, and hoping Applejack would come up the path any second now, and open the door. Of course she knew the chances of that were slim to none. As Apple Bloom sat by the window, a huge flash of lighting, followed by a loud clap of thunder shook the house, this caused Apple Bloom to remeber back to a time in her past. She couldn't remember every detail of the memory, because it was a day she would rather forget then to go through again, all she could remember was seeing two dead ponies laying in front of her, as she looked at them with horror in her eyes, and tears streaming down her face. "Apple Bloom, dinner"! Apple Bloom was taking out of her flashback by the voice of her grandmother. "Coming"! "I can't go through something like that again" she thought to herself. Apple Bloom got off the couch and walked into the kitchen, trying her best to look like everything was alright, however both her brother and grandmother knew her better then that, they would be able to tell if something was wrong. Sure enough, when she entered the kitchen she heard her brother say. "You alright"? Apple Bloom knew her brother well enough not to lie to him, so she sighed, and told him what was going on. "I'm just worried about Applejack, Rarity, Mr. Braun, and Mr. Hoover". Granny Smith gave her youngest grandchild a reassuring smile. "Don't you freat now youngin, Applejack and the others will be fine". Apple Bloom, knowing her granny was usaully never wrong about things smiled and joined her family at the table, and they listen to the sounds of the storm outside the small house. Back at Twilight's place, Applejack had just fininished washing herself off, and walked back inside only to see Twilight, and Rarity covering themselves in mud face masks. "What in tarnation"... she exclamimed. "Now wait just a goll-darn minute. Ya make me wash the mud off my hooves, but it's okay for y'all to have mud all over yer faces"? Applejack asked. Rarity simply scoffed at the earth pony before explaining. "Silly! This is called a mud mask. It's to refresh and rejuvenate your complexion". "We're giving each other makeovers"! Eee-hee! Twilight stated with glee in her voice, before hovering the book infront of Applejack's face. We have to do it, it says so in the book. explained the purple unicorn. Applejack saw the book and began to read. "Slumber 101: everything you". Applejack stopped abruply, realizeing what Twilight wanted to do that night. "Oh hey, heh, would'ja look at the time. I gotta skidaddle on home quick. I'm powerful late for, uh, fer somethin. Uh, g'night". Applejack walked slowly out the door, doing her best not to look like she didn't want to be there, but she was stopped by a loud clap of thunder, causing her to slowly walk back inside. "Or maybe I'll sit here for a spell". Twilight remained oblivousy to Applejack, and Rarity's discomfort, and clapped her hoofs in excitment. "Hurray slumber party"! Applejack stood in place for a few minutes before being taken off guard by Rarity shoving a mud mask onto her face. "Blahch. What in the world is this for"? Applejack asked realing back in shock. Rarity sighed in annoyance to Applejack's complaint before explaining. "To reduce the puffiness around one's eyes, of course". Applejack just scoffed. "Puffiness-schmuffiness!" she stated, before proceeding to eat the cucumbers off of her eyes. "That's good eatin"! Twilight, still noticing what was going on between her friends just kept getting more and more excited for the slumber party. "Hee-hee! Isn't this exciting? We'll do everything by the book, and that will make my slumber party officially fun". Hearing this, Rarity turned to Applejack. "Did you hear that, Applejack? You certainly would not want to do anything that would ruin Twilight's very first slumber party, would you?" "Of course not, 'n you wouldn't either, I reckon"? Applejack asked. "So do we have an agreement"? Rarity asked. "You betcha"! Applejack stated before spitting into her hoof and presenting it to Rarity, for her to shake. Rarity just realed back in disgust. "Oh, gross! You know there's messy and there's just plain rude". Rarity stated. "You know, there's fussy, 'n there's just plain gettin' on my nerves". Applejack retorted back. Rarity just sighed before speaking again. "Fortunately, I can get along with anypony, no matter how difficult she may be". "Oh yeah"! Applejack began. "Well, I'm the "get-alongin-est" pony you're ever gonna meet". "That isn't even a word"! Rarity stated. But before the two of them could get into another argument, Twilight got in between them with a huge smile on her face. "This is going to be the bestest slumber party ever! Yay"! "Yay". Applejack and Rarity both chuckled nervously. Back at their home, Reiner, and Bertholdt were both sitting inside, Bertholdt staring out the window. "Some storm, the pegasi really made this one a doozy". He stated. "Yeah, they sure did". Reiner stated. "It kind of reminds me of that day back when we we're with the 104th cadet corps". Bertholdt thought back, remembering what Reiner was talking about. Bertholdt and Reiner had just finished the days training session, and we're walking back to their barracks. "Man, that training did a number on my shoulders". Bertholdt complained. "Next time be more careful when hitting your mark". Reiner told him before looking up at the sky, and seeing the storm clouds. "Looks like a storms brewing". he stated. His suspicions were confirmed when bright flash of lighting, and loud clap of thunder rocked the trees. "Come on, let's get back qucikly". Reiner stated. The two of them were about to run back to the barracks when the heard soft whimpering coming from behind a small bush. Walking over to the bush, they looked behind to see a female cadet, Mina Carolina trembleing behind it. "Mina, what are you doing"? asked Reiner. The girl, jumped in shock, hearing their voices, but sighed in relief once she saw them. "Oh, Reiner, Bertholdt, it's just you." "Yeah" Reiner stated. "Are you alright'. He asked. "Yeah! I'm fine, I'm just" Mina was intterupted by another loud clash of thunder, causing her to scream and cling to Reiner, who was taken aback. "Mina, are you afraid of storm"? asked Bertholdt. Knowing she couldn't hide it, Mina nodded. "Hey it's okay to be afraid, you know I used to be afraid of storms too". Reiner told her. "R-Really"? asked Mina. "You bet, but you know what I did"? "What"? "Well, everytime lighting would flash, I would start counting. The more numbers I counted, the farther the storm would be". Reiner explained. As soon as Reiner said that, another flash of lighting appeared, and he and Mina started to count. "One, Two, Three". Thunder clashed loudly, causing Mina to scream again. Reiner gave her a small smile. "Come on, let's get you back to your barracks". The three of them arrived back at the girls barracks in time to see three other cadets Sasha Braus, Christa Lenz, and Mikasa Ackerman all in their rain uniforms, and holding lantterns. Spotting Reiner, Bertholdt, and Mina. They ran over to the, "Mina, are you alright". Asked a concered Sasha. "Yeah, I just got lost, and then storm hit, but Reiner and Bertholdt found me, and walked me back". Mina explained. Mikasa gave Mina a small smile, before removing her rain uniform, and putting it on Mina. "Come on, let's get you back inside, and warm you up". she said, leading Mina back to the barracks, with Sasha following. Before she followed after them, Christa turned to Reiner, and Bertholdt with a smile on her face. "Thank you, for helping her". Reiner blushed slighteliy, but kept his composher. "No problem". he stated. With that Christa turned around and followed after Mikasa, Sasha, and Mina, while Bertholdt, and Reiner returned to their own barracks. Three years later, Reiner, and Bertholdt we're on the roof of a bulding, listening as Armin Arlert gave them terrible news. "They we're. The cadets of Squad 34. Thomas Wagner, Nack Tierce, Milieus Zeremski, Mina Carolina, and Eren Yeager! These brave five, upheld their duities, they died heroicly in the field of battle". Reiner, and Bertholdt stood their in shock. "Please no". Sasha stated with despair in her voice "His whole squad was wiped out"? asked a soldier. "The same will happen to us if we try to take on those Titans". said another. Reiner sighed as he looked at the storm happening in ponyville. "Mina Carolina, one of the many people whose deaths are on us". He thought to himself Currently Publicly Available Information Unyielding Vow. Through extensive research and accounts of various incidents, it has become clear that the scourge of Titans which have long plagued humanity are of human origin. The Colossal Titan which destroyed the Wall at Shiganshina District is a human possessing the ability to transform into a Titan, demonstrated by its intent to breach the Wall with the purpose to exterminate humans. Titans are not sent by the heavens to punish us for our sins, but invaders that must be driven back. Thus, we swear, by the blood our brothers and comrades spilled waging war against this foe, we shall not relent our lands nor yield the fight. Back at the library, Applejack, and Rarity we're sitting a few feet away from each other, both having their own scales on their faces. "So, how are you getting along over there, Applejack"? asked Rarity. "Just fine, Rarity". Applejack responeded. Twilight meanwhile was over by her desk, with a huge smile on her face. "This is so awesome"! she giggled before writing a check down on her self made slumber party checklist. "Makeovers, check". Twilight looked back into the book to see what was next, a huge smile appeared on her face when she saw the next step. "Ooh, it says here we have to tell ghost stories". Twilight looked over to the two ponies sitting a few feet away from her. "Who wants to go first?" she asked. Hearing this, Applejack instantly shot up. "Me! I'd like to tell y'all the terrifying tale of the prissy ghost who drove everypony crazy with her unnecessary neatness. Oo-oo! I'm sure y'all are familiar with that one"? Rarity, knowing that Applejack was talking about her decieded to tell her story. "Never heard of it, but I have a much better one. It's the horrifying story of the messy, inconsiderate ghost who irritated everypony within a hundred miles! Oo-oo"! "That's not even a real story, You made it up"! Applejack stated. "It's a ghost story. They're all made up"! Rarity retorted. All of a sudden the lights went out, causing Applejack, and Rarity to scream, as Twilight appeared in between them. "I've got one! This story is called The Legend of the Headless Horse. It was a dark and stormy night, just like this one. And three ponies were having a slumber party, just like this one"... Twilight told her story for about twenty mintues, finally getting to the end. "and just when the last pony thought she was safe, there, standing right behind her, just inches away was-- The Headless Horse". Once again the lights flashed off, again causing Applejack, and Rarity to scream, as Twilight appeared with a sheet over her body, to look like the headless horse. Twilight removed her costume and smiled before checking her list again. "Ghost story, check. Now, who wants s'mores"? Twilight looked at her friends in confusion. Rarity sighed, and smiled at Twilight. "S'mores are a wonderful deseret to have during either a slumber party, or even camping". "Oh". Twilight said. "How to you make them"? she asked. "First we need graham crackers". said Rarity. "Okay". Twilight said, as she pulled a box of graham crackers out of her cabient. "What else"? she asked. "Chocolate". answered Rarity. "Okay". Twilight replied pulling a box of chocolate bars out of another cabient. "And finally, marshmellows". Rarity said. "Got em". Twilight called out. "Alright now darling, come over here and I shall show you how to make the perfect s'mores". Rarity told the other unicorn. About five minutes later, Twilight was finshing making her very first s'more. "Then you place one marshmallow on the top of the chocolate and be sure it's centered--that's critical--and then carefully put another perfectly square graham cracker on the top. And done. Ta-da"! Rarity explained. Twilight looked on in amazment, while Applejack just scoffed. "Nah, ya just eat 'em"! Applejack stated before ploping the s'more into her mouth and chewing it up. Once she was done, she let out a loud belech, as Rarity looked on in disgust. "You could say excuese me you know". Applejack stared at Rarity in annoyance. "Aw, I was just about to, but you interrupted me. Pardon". Twilight still wasn't noticing what was going on and check her list once again. "S'mores, check. Now the next item of fun we have to do is Truth or Dare". Rarity shot Applejack a look, and smirked. "I dare Applejack to do something carefully and neatly for a change". "Oh yeah"? Applejack shot back. "Well I dare Rarity ta lighten up and stop obsessin' over every last little detail, for a change". Rarity looked back at Applejack before responding. "I believe the truth in the matter is that somepony should pay more attetion to details". "And I think the truth in the matter is somepony outgha quit complainin all the time". Applejack retorted. Twilight looked at the two in confusion before looking at the book. "Umm, I don't think that's how it works. You have to give an honest answer to any question or do whatever anypony dares you to do". "Well then I dare Rarity to step outside in the rain, so she can get her mane all messy again". Applejack declared. Rarity gapsed in shock, and looked at Twilight, who just nodded. "You have to, it's the rule". Twilight stated. "Fine". Rarity mutter in defeat. Rarity stepped outside, and came back all wet, and shivering, while Applejack laughed. "Okay. I dare Applejack to play dress-up in a frou-frou, glittery, lacey outfit". Rarity stated. Applejack gasped before walking off, She came back in a frilly princess dress. "Happy". she asked Rarity. "Very". Rarity replied. Twilight looked on in confusion. "Um.... Do I get a turn"? she asked. She however fell on deaf ears as Rarity, and Applejack kept daring each other to do crazy things. "I dare ya to enter the next rodeo when it comes to town". Applejack told Rarity. "I dare you not to enter the next rodeo that comes to town". Rarity told Applejack "I dare ya to not comb your mane a hundred times before bed". Applejack stated. "And I dare you to comb yours just once". Rarity retorted Realizing that things we're getting out of hoof, Twilight decieded to end the game right their. "I, uh, I think we should check off Truth or Dare and move on. Let's see what our next fun-fun-fun thing is, shall we? Hm, what does this mean? Pillow fight"? Rarity scoffed at the idea of a Pillow fight. "Oh, please. I am not at all interested in participating in something so crude". She soon had a change of heart however when Applejack threw a pillow right in her face. "Oh! It! Is! On"! Rarity declared as she and Applejack started throwing pillows at each other while Twilight looked on, finally understanding the concept of Pillow fight. "Oh, I get it! Pillow, fight! Fun"! Twilight smiled for a bit, before noticing that the fight was causing a decient amount of damage to her house. "Ugh. Ah. Uh, girls? Maybe we should take it down a notch"? "I will if she will"! Applejack stated pointing at Rarity. Rarity gasped, before pointing her own hoof at Applejack. "She started it"! They kept throwing pillows at each other until one was thrown at Twilight's face. So she decieded now was a perfect time to call it a night. "Maybe we should just call it a night and get some sleep"? At Sweet Apple Arces, Apple Bloom was still staring out the window, it had gotten much darker outside. "We're going to have a lot of messes to clean up tommorow. Hopefully everypony will be willing to do their part". Her mind then swicthed over to her sister. "If Applejack and Rarity ended up under the same roof together, I sure do hope they're gettin along". All of a sudden, Apple Bloom was taken out of her thoughts by a loud clap of thunder. "Woah"! she exclaimed. "Whoo Nelly, now that was probaly the loudest thunder clap all night". Granny Smith stated as she and Big Mac came into the living room with some hot coco, Big Mac offering a mug to Apple Bloom, who smiled at him, and took it. At Reiner, and Bertholdt's place, the two of them we're sitting around, board until Bertholdt decieded to break the sileance. "Do you think Applejack and Rarity are getting along"? he asked Reiner. "I sure hope so". Reiner replied Suddendly, there was a very loud clap of thunder, causing both Bertholdt and Reiner to jump. "Holy Crap"! Exclaimed Bertholdt. "That one was really loud". "I know". Reiner replied Back at Twilight's house, Twilight was a sleep in her bed, but Applejack and Rarity we're both having trouble getting to sleep on the guest bed Twilight had provided for them. "Keep your muddy hooves on your side of the bed". Rarity whispered to Applejack. "My hooves ain't muddy". Applejack responded. "They were. There might still be a little on them". Rarity retorted, "There ain't. See"? Applejack stated, shoving her hoof into Rarity's face who realed back in disgust. Rarity then took the covers all for herself, leaving Applejack with none. All the while Twilight could hear them, but did her best to ignore it, hoping that they would get over it themselves. "Now who's bein' inconsiderate"? Applejack asked as she took the covers back. Rarity groaned and got out of the bed. "I have to make the bed again so the blanket will be right. Get up". She said as she knocked Applejack out of the bed. "Hey"! Applejack exclaimed. Once Rarity was done, Applejack tried to climb back in, only for Rarity to stop her. "Ah ah ah! You'll ruin it. You have to do it like this. Mm, uh, ooh, u-u-u-uh, uh, ah". Rarity stated as she gentley climd under the covers. Applejack just rolled her eyes in response. "Yeah, that's not gonna happen". Applejack stated as she leaped into the air. "Geronimo"! Once again the covers shot up so they only covered Applejack, and left Rarity without any. "You did that on purpose". Rarity accused. "Um, Yeah". Applejack responded. "Get up so I can fix it again". Rarity stated, but Applejack ignored her. "Can't hear ya, I'm asleep". Applejack then started to pretend and snore, fueling Rarity's anger as she tried to once again push the earth pony out of the bed, but Applejack wasn't going to knocked off so eaisly this time. "I ain't budgin". She told Rarity. Hearing this, an idea flew into Rarity's head. "You will if you want any blankets". And with that, Rarity yanked the Blanket off of Applejack, That got Applejack to get up, and she stared at Rarity with anger in her eyes. "Give it back"! Applejack demaned. "I will not". Rarity retorted. "Yes you will". Applejack stated. She, and Rarity then started to tug at the blanket. Twilight could her all of this going on, her frustration growing, until finally she decieded to intervine. "Enough"! She shouted at the two of them. This caused both Applejack, and Rarity to look at Twilight who hovered the book infront of their faces. "It says right here that the number one thing you're supposed to do at a slumber party is have fun, and thanks to you two I can't check that off"! "I've been tryin' my darndest to get along". Applejack stated trying to defened her own actions, and place all of the blame on Rarity. "No, it is I who have been trying my best". Rarity retorted. "No it was me"! Applejack stated. "No it was I"! Rarity replied. The two of them then started aruging again, but we're quickly stopped by Twilight. "I hope you're happy, both of you. You've ruined my very first slumber party. The makeover, the s'mores, Truth or Dare, the pillow fight... I mean, is there anything else that could possibly go wrong"? As soon as Twilight said that, a huge flash of lighting stuck a tree a feet away from the library, cracking it a bit, and frighteing Twilight who hid under her covers. "Sorry I asked". Twilight stated sheepishly. The three of them stared out the window, and noticed that the three was about to crash on another house. "Ya see? That's why we needed to take down all those loose branches in town, not spiffy 'em up". Applejack told Rarity. "But I--" Rarity started only for Applejack to interupt her. "Outta my way, missy! Time's a-wastin"! Wait, stop! Rarity tried to tell Applejack, only to be ignored, as the only thing on Applejack's mind was saving that house. "No waitin'! No stoppin'! Doin"! Applejack then lassoed the tree with her rope and pulled it up, smilling at her work. "And that, my friends, is what we call gettin' 'er done". Applejack stated. Unfourtently, all of Applejack's efforts ended up being futile, as the tree ended falling inside Twilight's house instead. Rarity looked at Applejack with a disaproving glare. "I tried to tell you it would come crashing down in here". She stated. "Well you shoulda tried harder! Applejack shot back before looking at Twilight". "I'm mighty sorry, Twilight". she apologized. Twilight tried to think of a response, to make Applejack feel better, but she couldn't, not with the current situation at hoof in her own room. "It's... Well, it's not okay. There's a giant tree branch in the middle of my bedroom, and the book doesn't say anything about having a giant tree branch at your slumber party. Or at least I haven't found that entry yet". The purple unicorn stated. Applejack sighed before noticing Rarity tididying up the area. "Cleaning up this mess somepony made! Who was that again? Oh, right, that's you!" Rarity shouted at Applejack. "We gotta do sometin"! Applejack stated to Rarity, while Twilight was still looking through book hopeing to find a situation to their problem. "Baking....... BFFS....... Brothers......... There's nothing in here about branches". Twilight groaned in frustration. Applejack was still trying to remove the tree from the room, but stopped when she noticed that Rarity was still only worrying about the small things. "Rarity, for pony's sake, stop sweatin' the small stuff and help me get rid of this thing"! She called out, only for Rarity to ignore her. "I said hussle over here and help me"! Applejack demanded. Only to be ignored again. Finally, Applejack sighed. She knew what she had to say in order to get Rarity to help her. "Look, I'm sorry, all right"? "What was that"? Rarity asked in confusion. "I said I'm sorry! I shoulda listened to you when you noticed where this here branch would end up. Yer annoyin' attention to detail would'a saved us from this whole mess. But right now, ya need to stop bein' so dang fussy pickin' up all the little things and help me move the one big thing in here that actually matters! Please"! Applejack begged. Rarity didn't want to at first, because of the risk of getting dirty. "Uh. Uh, but I'll get all icky". She complained, causing Applejack to get frustrated once again. "Consarnit! What the... eh... you"... Applejack managed to calm herself down, and decieded to speak calmly to Rarity. "I mean, yes, ickiness is often a side effect of hard work. But y'all need to get over it, on account I just can't fix this mess I made myself. I need your help". Applejack stated. Hearing this, Rarity finally relented, and agreed to help. "Oh. Let's do this". She declared. The two of them began working to remove the tree from the bedroom, all the while Twilight was still looking through the book when she found something she thought could help them "Well, they do have a section about backyard slumber parties. Is that what we're doing right now? Does this count as camping"? she asked. Applejack and Rarity we're too busy working on the tree to hear Twilight. Finally, after a bunch of hard work, they manged to get the tree out of the library. Of course while doing so, Rarity had made some small little pony shaped tree statues, she also ended up getting dirty like she was afraid of. "U-ugh. Oh, I look awful". she complained. Applejack gave Rarity a small smile, and put two cumcumbers over her eyes. "Better"? she asked. "Hmph, thanks". Rarity replied. Twilight realized that things had quiet down, so she put down the book, and noticed the tree statues. "Oh, cute"! she stated, before quickly looking at the book again. "They're also not in the book." she pointed out, causing Applejack and Rarity to laugh. Later, all three of them we're downstairs playing 20 questions. Twilight was thinking of something, and Applejack, and Rarity had to guess what it was she was thinking of. "Is it bigger than a barn"? Applejack asked. "Nope"! Twilight laughed. "Is it smaller then a saddle". Asked Rarity. No! Only three of your twenty questions left"! Twilight laughed again. "We're never gonna guess what you're thinkin' of, it could be anythin". Applejack complained. "Are we getting warmer"? Rarity asked. Twilight looked at her friends with worry, thinking that they we're too cold. "Why? Is it too cold in here for you? I can turn up the heat". Applejack smiled at Twilight, and explained what Rarity meant. "She means are we gettin' any closer with our guesses"? Twilight smiled back, now realizing what Rarity meant. "Oh! No. And that technically counted as a question, so only two more left"! Applejack thought for a bit before coming up with the first answer that popped into her head. "Is it... a six-legged pony with a purple polka-dotted mane and shootin' stars comin' out of his eyes"? She began. "Who flies through the air all over the world to hide magic, sparkly eggs"? Rarity continued. Twilight stared at the two for a bit before answering. "That's it"! she declared. "Really"? asked both Applejack and Rarity. "No". Twilight admited. "It's that". She said, pointing up to her telescope. "But it was just so nice to see you two finally getting along, that I wanted you to win together". Twilight explained. Applejack, and Rarity both laughed after hearing this, causing Twilight to smile. "See? We could have been having fun like this all along". She stated. "If only somepony hadn't been so persnickety". Applejack stated "Well, maybe she wouldn't have been if somepony else hadn't been so sloppy". Rarity retorted back. The two fo them glared at each other for a bit, and then smiled. "Sorry for being such a pain in the patootie". Applejack apologzied to Rarity. "Oh, no, I'm sure I was much worse." Rarity stated. "That's kind of ya to say, but I'm the one who's sorry". Applejack replied. "Oh, I'm much more sorry than you are". Rarity declared. "Ugh. Are not". Applejack argued. "Are too". Rarity argued back. The two of them began to argue again, but this time, instead of staying mad, they started to laugh, as Twilight came in between them with the book, ready to check off the final item on the list. "I declare my first slumber party a success"! Applejack and Rarity cheered, as Twilight checked off the final thing. "Have fun! Check"! A few minutes later, Rarity was gudieing Applejack, who had two cumcumbers over her eyes. " Now take two steps to your left". Applejack began to move to the left, only for Rarity to stop her. "No, my left". she corrected. "Whu, which is it"? Applejack asked, before crashing into the book fort from the eariler pillow fight. "This mess is your fault, not mine". Applejack stated while laughing. "Sorry". Rarity apologized. Laughing as well. While the two of them we're laughing, Twilight was writing a letter to Princess Celestia. "Dear Princess Celestia, It's hard to believe that two ponies who seem to have so little in common could ever get along. But I found out that if you embrace each other's differences, you just might be surprised to discover a way to be friends after all". At Sweet Apple Arces. Apple Bloom, Big Macintosh, and Granny Smith we're sitting by the fireplace, and drinking their hot coco, While at Reiner, and Bertholdt's place, they we're sitting on their couch. Once Twilight was finished her letter, she looked over to Applejack, and Rarity. "So, who's up for another slumber party tomorrow night"? She asked. Twilight's response was getting two pillows thrown into her face. "Ugh. How about a week from Thursday? Oh, how about two weeks from Saturday? A month from now"? she kept asking, while Applejack, and Rarity just laughed. Preview When strange things befall Twilight and her friends, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy are quick to blame a mysterious stranger who came to town eailer that day. Now it's up Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom to not only find a cure, but proove that their friends supicions, are wrong. Next Episode. Bridle Gossip. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Derpy Hooves Sweetie Drops Golden Harvest Samatha Cheerliee Applejack Daisy Rarity Big Macintosh Apple Bloom Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Twilight Sparkle Granny Smith Bright Macintosh (Flashback corpse) Pear Butter (Flashback corpse) Mina Carolina (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Historia Reiss (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Episode 14: Bridle Gossip: Gala arc Part 7It was bright and beautiful morning in ponyville. Celestia's sun shone brightly over the town, with not a single cloud in the sky. Twilight Sparkle, and her dragon assistaint Spike we're walking along, both admiring the glorious day. "Wow, what a gorgeous day"! Twilight stated. Spike nodded in agreement as he looked up at the sky. "Rainbow Dash must have gotten up early for once and cleared all the clouds away". He theroized. "I bet all of Ponyville is going to be out enjoying the sunshine. Twilight pointed out. As if on cue, after Twilight said that, she and Spike, saw Apple Bloom, Bertholdt Hoover, and Reiner Braun. They walked over to the three other ponies. "Good morning you three". Twilight called out. "Oh, hello Twilight, and Spike". Reiner greeted. "What are you doing out here, on this fine day" Spike asked. "Well Granny Smith asked me to pick up some items from the market for supper tonight". Apple Bloom explained. "But as you see". Apple Bloom pointed out, before looking around the town, along with Reiner, and Bertholdt. This caused Twilight, and Spike to look around too, that was when they noticed that the town was compltely empty. "Huh? Where is everypony"? asked Twilight. "I don't know, when I got to the market, it was empty, that was when I ran into Bertholdt, and Reiner". Apple Bloom explained. Spike Looked around in confusion. "Is it some sort of pony holiday"? "Not that I know of". Twilight answered. "Does my breath think"? Spike asked, as he burped. "Not more then usual". Stated Bertholdt, as he fanned the area with his wings. Spike tried to think of any other possible reasons as to why the town was empty. "Is it... zombies"?! He asked in fear. "Uh... not very likely". Apple Bloom responeded. "Not liklely, but possible"? Spike asked again. The five of them stood around for a while, until they heard the voice of Pinkie Pie whisperer out to them. "Psst! Twilight! Spike! Apple Bloom! Reiner! Bertholdt! Come here! Come! Here! Hurry! Before she gets you". They looked at Pinkie Pie in confusion for a bit, before Apple Bloom shurgged, and walked inside, Reiner sighed, and followed after her, along with Twilight, and Bertholdt. Once inside, Spike was the first to speak. "Who are we hiding from? The zombie Pony"? "Z-Zombie pony"?! Pinkie Pie asked, trembeling. "Spike! There are no Zombie ponies"! Twilight stated. Reiner looked around, he noticed that all the lights were out. That only added to his confusion. "Pinkie Pie, what's going on? Why are you hidning alone in the dark"? he asked. "I'm not alone". she answered before pulling out a lanteren and shinning it around the room to reveal Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy all in the room with them. "Okay then, what are you all doing here in the dark"? Reiner asked again. Yeah, what's going Applejack"? asked Apple Bloom. "We're hidin' from her"! Applejack answered while pointing out the window. This prompted Twilight, Spike, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt too also look out, and they saw what appeared to be a hooded pony. "Did you guys see her? Did you see, Zecora"? asked Pinkie Pie, which caused Applejack to give her a stern look. "Pinkie! I told you not to say that name"! The five new faces in sugarcube corner gave Applejack, and Pinkie Pie confused looks before Reiner spoke up. "Well, we saw her glance this way". "Glance evily"? Pinkie Pie intteruptted. Reiner stared at her Blankly for a few seconds before contiuing. "And then a bunch of you flip out for no good reason". Applejack gasped in shock hearing Reiner say that. "No good reason? That Zecora lady is dangerous, why if ya'll didn't come in here when Pinkie Pie called you, whose knows what woulda happened". "Okay........... Well maybe you could explain why she's dangerous? Cause she looks pretty normal to me" Twilight told them. "Ugh! Normal"? Rarity gasped. Fluttershy noddeded in agreement. "She's mysterious". She stated. "Sinister". Rainbow Dash replied. "And spoooooky"! Pinkie Pie finished, causing Twilight the groan, and Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy to gasp. "Will you stop that"? Twilight asked. They continued to stare at Zecora while she did, whatever she was doing. "Just look at those stripes! So garish"! Rairty insulted. "She's a Zebra". Stated Reiner. "A what? asked everyone", except Twilight, Spike, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom. "A zebra, and her stripes aren't a fashion choice Rarity, they're what she was born with". Twilight answered. That statment caused Rarity to fanit in horror, while Applejack spoke up. Born where? I've never seen a pony like that in these parts, 'cept... Her. "Well, she's probably not from here, and she's not a pony. My books say that zebras come from a faraway land. But I've never seen her in Ponyville. Where does she live"? Twilight asked. "That's just it, she lives in... the Everfree Forest"! Applejack replied. All of a sudden there was a loud crash from the kitchen, causing everyone to look in that direction, and see Spike, who had knocked over some pots and pans. "Spike"! Twilight scolded. "Oops, sorry". Spike Chuckled nervously. As soon as that situation was handled, Applejack started to speak again. "The Everfree Forest just ain't natural. The plants grow"... "Animals care for themselves". Fluttershy stated. "And the clouds move". Rainbow Dash began. "All on their own"! She, Applejack, and Fluttershy finished. Once again, Rarity fanited, as Twilight, and Reiner just rolled their eyes. Pinkie Pie then spoke up. "Also that wicked enchantress Zecora lives there doing her evil... stuff! She's so evil I even wrote a song about her"! Hearing this caused Dash to groan in annoyance. "Here we go". But she was unable to stop Pinkie Pie from singing her little musical number. She's an evil enchantress She does evil dances And if you look deep in her eyes She'll put you in trances Then what will she do? She'll mix up an evil brew Then she'll gobble you up In a big tasty stew Soooooo........ Watch Out! Once Pinkie Pie was finshied her song the others just staried at her. "Wow...... Cathcy". Bertholdt pointed out. "It's a work in progress"! Pinkie defeneded Apple Bloom then looked at her sister. "Applejack, you can't seriously believe that all this is true can you"? She asked. "Of course I can belieive it"! Applejack stated. "But how can you believe something so...... Silly"? Apple Bloom asked. Applejack just sighed before putting her hoof on Apple Bloom's shoulder. "Sugarcube listen, you just gotta trust me on this, I mean when have ever lied to you about things". Applejack countered. "Never". Apple Bloom stated. "But maybe if you explained why you all believe Zecora is bad, then maybe I would have a better time understanding your suspicions". Apple Bloom concluded. Apple Bloom's right, everything you're saying about Zecora is just a lot of gossip and rumors. So please tell us. what exactly have you actually seen Zecora do? asked Reiner. The five ponies who we're already in sugarcube corner stared at each other for a bit before Rainbow Dash spoke up. "Well... Once a month, she comes into Ponyville". "Ooooooh". Reiner groaned mockingly. "Then she lurks by the stores". Rarity contiuned. "Oh my". Twilight stated in the same maner as Reiner. "And then, she digs at the ground". Fluttershy concluded. "Good gracious"! Twilight, and Reiner both said as the pretended to hug each other. Once the others were done explaing Reiner went back to talking in his normal voice. "Okay, I'm sorry. But how is any of this bad? Maybe she comes to town to visit"? Apple Bloom nodded in agreement. "That's true, she might just be trying to be nice". "And maybe she's not lurking by the stores, maybe she's going to them, lurk free, you know to shop". Twilight stated. "That's also true. Everyone likes to shop". Bertholdt pointed out. Twilight, Reiner, and Apple Bloom all nodded in agreement. "That's exactly what I was doing before you dragged us in here". Apple Bloom stated. "Twilight smiled at Apple Bloom". "You don't believe any of this do you Apple Bloom"? she asked. Apple Bloom thought for a bit, she was unsure how to feel, on one hoof Applejack has never lied to her, about anything, but on the other, everything that they had said was just plain silly. "I don't know, It does sound silly but"..... Apple Bloom put a hoof to her head, and groaned. "Are you okay"? asked Reiner. "Y-yeah, my head just hurts". Apple Bloom stated. "Probaly because this topic is very serious, and you can't handle it. Why don't you sit down and rest, while us older ponies discuss this". Applejack said gentley. "Okay". Apple Bloom stated as she went to one of the booths to sit down, listing as the others contiued their conversation. "W-what about digging at the ground? You've got to admit that's strange". Rainbow Dash pointed out. "Maybe she's digging for cute innocnet creatures". Fluttershy suggested while Pinkie was singing her song in the background. Twilight, and Reiner couldn't believe what they we're hearing. "I am sure there is an explanation for everything Zecora does, and if any of you we're willing to go up and talk to her, you would find out the truth". Twilight stated. Apple Bloom sat at her table, listening intently to the entire conversation. "I'm brave enough, maybe I should talk to her". she thought to herself. With that, Apple Bloom got up out of the booth, and began to sneak outside, she was almost out the door, when she felt someone touch her shoulder, causing her to jump in shock. Apple Bloom turned around to see Reiner, and Bertholdt staring at her with dissaproving glances. "What do you think you're doing?" asked Reiner. Apple Bloom just stared at the two of them, as she struggled with what she was going to say. "I-I was gonna go out there and try to talk to Zecora". she stammered. Reiner shook his head at her explamation. "No you're not". Apple Bloom was shocked, after Reiner had said that Zecora wasn't evil he still wouldn't talk to her? "But, you said"! Apple Bloom began, only to have Reiner intterupt her. "I know what I said, but you should never go up to someone you don't know". He explained. Apple Bloom looked down in sadness. "Then how are we going to know if she's evil or not"? she asked. Reiner gave Apple Bloom a small smile. "Don't worry, Bertholdt and I are going to try and speak with her". He answered before looking at the pegagus stalion. Right Bertholdt"? "Of course". Bertholdt replied. Reiner smiled at his friend before turning to Apple Bloom. Well be back, now no matter what, stay here! He told her firmly. Apple Bloom nodded her head, and with that, Reiner and Bertholdt left. Apple Bloom watched as they headed for Zecora, she wanted to tell the others what they we're doing but she saw that they we're still arguing with Twilight. Apple Bloom opted to go after the two stalions, but remembered that they told her to stay put, that only made her more confused though, and she ended up getting another migrane, so she decieded to sit by the wall in the back of sugarcube corner, in order to get her thought together. While Apple Bloom sat in the back, Twilight was still arguing with the rest of her friends. "You ponies are being ridiculous"! Twilight stated. "Oh yeah! Well I heard that Zecora eats hay". Pinkie Pie argued. Twilight only rolled her eyes at this. "Pinkie. I eat hay, you eat hay"! She stated. "Yeah, but I heard it's the evil way she eats it". Pinkie told Twilight. It was then, that Applejack noticed that not all of their friends we're in view. "Hey! Where are Bertholdt and Reiner"? she asked. The ponies began to look around for the two staillions. "The door's open". Fluttershy stated. "And Zecora is still out there! Cried Rarity in despair", while Twilight simply rolled her eyes. "Girls! Reiner, and Bertholdt are full grown stalions. They can handle themselves". Twilight stated mater of factorly. "Not against Zecora"! Applejack argued, as she, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie rushed outside. Twilight sighed, and looked at Spike, who had just came out of the kitchen. "Spike, you stay here with Apple Bloom in case Reiner, and Bertholdt come back". She told him. Spike nodded his head. "Can do"! Spike agreeded, as Twilight ran out of the room. Outside, Reiner and Bertholdt we're following behind Zecora, watching her every move. Evenutally she started to head for the Everfree forest. Reiner and Bertholdt made sure to stay close behind. Finally Reiner decieded to call out to her. "Hey". Reiner began, only for him to be intterupted by Pinkie Pie's loud voice. "REINEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR"! Reiner turned around, and was instantly knocked into a patch of strange blue flowers, as Pinkie Pie was on top of him, hugging him tightly. "IMSOGLADYOUTWOARESAFEIWASSOSCAREDTHATZECORAWASGOINGTODOSOMETHINGHORRIBLETOYOU"! She exclaimed super face. "Pinkie, I can't breath". Reiner complained, as the rest of the Mane Eight came up. All of them walking into the patch of Blue flowers. "Oh my stars, thank goodness you two are safe"! Cried Rarity. Reiner, and Bertholdt looked at her in confusion, and then, Zecora spoke! "Beware! Beware, you pony folk! Those leaves of blue are not a joke"! "Y-you keep your creepy mumbo-jumbo to yourself, ya hear"? Applejack nervously yelled back at Zecora. She, along with Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity all started yelling nonsense at Zecora, while Bertholdt looked on, Reiner rolled his eyes, and Twilight sighed. Oh, brother. She sighed. Zecora ignored their shouting, and contiue to chant. "Beware, Beware". Rainbow Dash was unfazed by Zecora's warnings, and shouted back at her. "Yeah, back at ya, Zecora! You and your lame curse are the ones who better beware"! As Zecora left, Applejack turned to Reiner, and Bertholdt, A look of releif on her face. "Are ya two alright"? she asked. "Yeah of course, why wouldn't we be"? Reiner asked in confusion. "Why"!? Applejack stated in shock. "Because who knows what kind of nasty curse Zecora could have just put on you"? she pointed out. "Just like in my song"! Pinkie Pie stated, as she began to sing her song, once again. "You guys, there's no such thing as curses"! Twilight shouted at her friends. "Well that's funny coming from Miss Magical unicorn herself". Rainbow Dash mocked Twilight. This only caused Twilight to smirk, as she then began lectuering her friends. "My magic, which is real comes from within. It's a skill you're born with. Curses are artificial, fake magic. It's conjured with potions and incantations; all smoke and mirrors meant to scare. But curses have no real power, they're just an old pony tale". But when Twilight looked, she noticed that Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy ignoring her, while Applejack just stared at her, Bertholdt, and Reiner with a disaproving glare. "Just you three wait. You're gonna find out that some pony tails, really are true". Applejack stated as she walked away. "And tommorow when we're all fine, I'll be the one laughing at you"! Twilight shouted to Applejack. This caused the orange Earth Pony to turn towards Twilight, but rather then yell back, Applejack just smirked. "We shall see". she stated before walking off Twilight groaned in frustration. She couldn't believe how judgemental her friends we're being. "Why are they being so damn stuborn". She asked. "Sometimes there are those who believe one thing, and hate it when they're told that they're wrong". Reiner explained That night, Twilight slept in her bed, but her mind was racing with thoughts. She remebered part of Pinkie Pie's Song "She's an evil enchantress, and she does evil dances". Zecora's words. "Beware! Beware" Pinkie's song again. "If you look deep in her eyes, she will put you in trances". Rainbow Dash mocking Zecora. "Was that suppose to scare us"?! Rarity's words "Wicked, wicked zebra". Fluttershy's "..... It's a curse". Applejack's warning "Some pony tales, really are true". The end of Pinkie's song. "Then she'll gobble you up in a big tastey stew! Soooo... Watch out"! And finally, Zecora laughing evil. "NO"! Twilight awoke with a start, and looked around her room, panting. I'm letting my imagantion get to me. Yeah tommorow, Applejack will be the one to see that I'm right, and she's wrong Currently Publicly Available Information Zebras. A species of Pony that lives in a land far from Equestria, their most notable features are their stripes. The next morning, Twilight woke up, and stretched her hoofs. "Phew, what a dream". She muttered to herself, before looking around. So far, everything seemed normal, this caused Twilight to smirk. "Curses, schmurses. Will see who's laughing today Applejack." Twilight snickered devishly as she walked to the mirror. Once Twilight got to her mirror she gasped in shock notcing that she had a very bad case of bed head. "Whoah! Maybe Zecora cursed my hair". she chuckled, as she began to brush her mane, but as she brushed, she noticed that something was indeed wrong. "Or maybe she cursed my horn"! She gasped, as she noticed that her horn was flabby, and covered in strange blue polka dots. Twilight rushed downstairs, waking up Spike in the process, and she began to look through all her books on dieses, and illments. "No no no no no! None of these books have a cure! Ugh! There has to be a real reason for this! An illness? An allergy"?! "A curse!" Spike suggested. "I said a real reason". Twilight explained. Spike contiued to help Twilight look around, before finding something. "How about this one"? Spike asked as he presented Twilight with the book he found. Twilight only sighed when she read the title. "Supernaturals? Spike, the word supernatural refers to things like ghosts and spirits and zombies, which are as make-believe as curses. This book is just a bunch of hooey"! She stated. "But what if you're wrong Twilight"? Spike tried to argue. "I'm Not"! Twilight exclaimed. Spike was about to counter, when he and Twilight we're intterupted by a knock on the door. Twilight opened it and saw Reiner, and Bertholdt standing outside, but somehing was off. Reiner looked smaller, as in his broud shoulders seemed more deshevled, and one of Bertholdt's wings was much bigger then the other. Twilight and Spike both gasped when they saw the two of them. "Reiner, Bertholdt, are you guys alright"?! Twilight asked in concern. "I don't know, Reiner and I just went to bed last night perfectley fine, and when we woke up we we're like this". Bertholdt explained. Spike looked around nervously before asking Reiner if he had any idea what caused this. Do you think Zecora did this? Do you think it's"... "Ah pfurse"! a voice intterupted Spike who turned around a saw Pinkie Pie at the door, but like the other three, something was wrong with her. Pinkie Pie's cheeks had been puffed up to the point where her tounge forced to stick out of her mouth and making it hard for anyone to understand what she was saying. "A purse? How could it be a purse"? asked Spike. Twilight however was more concered for her pink friend and went over to see what was was wrong. "Pinkie? What happened"? "Pee pah Zthecora! Sthe put a cursthe on me"! Pinkie spat. "Hey! Say it, don't spray it Pinkie"! Spike exclaimed in annoyance. "What are you talking about"? asked Reiner. Before Pinkie could continue they all herd a loud thud, and looked over to see Rainbow Dash who had just crashed into the libray. "She's trying to tell you that Zecora put a curse on us"! Rainbow Dash stated. Twilight was about to debunk this claim when she was intterupted by another voice. "I'm afraid I have to agree". Rarity commented. Her hair had grown so long and shaggy that it made hard for her to see. Next Applejack arrived, but she was super tiny and had to hitch a ride on Apple Bloom's back, the red haired filly had a very uncomfortble look on her face, which Twilight, and Reiner both took notice of "I hate to say I told ya so, Reiner but I told ya so! It's a curse I tells ya"! Applejack ranted. "She kept repeating that over and over while we we're on our way." Apple Bloom stated, with a hint of distress in her voice. Bertholdt looked around the library, and then he noticed Fluttershy, who seemed pretty normal to him. "Well what about Fluttershy"? she seems fine. "Yeah, there doesn't seem to be a thing wrong with her". Rarity pointed out, as much as she believed Zecora had put a curse on them, part of her had to admit that Bertholdt had a point, but Fluttershy being who she was just might not be willing to tell them what her problem was. "Fluttershy, are you okay"? Reiner asked. Fluttershy ignored him "Is there something wrong with you"? asked Twilight Fluttershy nodded. "Would mind telling us"? asked Bertholdt. Fluttershy ignored him. "So... you're not going to tell us"? Twilight asked. Fluttershy nodded, but that only confused Twilight more. "Yes you're not, or yes you will"? Twilight asked. Applejack was getting annoyed and ran across the table over to Fluttershy. "Good gravy, girl! What's wrong with you"?! Fluttershy turned away, before finally speaking. "I don't wanna talk about it" she answered in a deep male voice. Seeing all of the ponies in this state, Spike couldn't help but burst out into laughter, as he thought of several nicknames for the eight friends. "This is hilarious! Look at all of you! We got: Hairity, Rainbow Crash, Spitty Pie, Apple Teeny, Flutterguy, Big Bertie, Old Man Braun, and... uh... I got nothin'... Twilight Sparkle. I mean seriously, I can't even work with that. Twilight and the others however did not find Spike's humor to be funny in the slightest "This is no joke, Spike. Now start looking for more books so I can find a cure"! Spike groaned. So did Rainbow Dash. "I think we'll find a cure to this curse at Zecora's place"! She exclaimed. "It's not a curse"! Reiner argued. "I agree with Dash! We'll go to Zecora's and force her to remove this hex"! Applejack retorted. "It's not a hex either"! Twilight shouted agreeing with Reiner. The ponies all started to shout over each other as Apple Bloom looked on in distress seeing all the ponies she looked up to arguing with each other. She got another headache and had to step outside. Once out of the libaray Apple Bloom began to think. "What can I do, how can this problem be resolved"? Should I go try to find Zecora myself? No that's stupid, she lives in the Everfree forest with all kinds of dangerous creatures. Then again, she's probally the only one who knows what really happend, even if she wasn't directly responisble." As Apple Bloom pondered her thoughts, she remebered something her Father told her a while back. "Remember Apple Bloom, never judge a creature just on the way it looks, Every Creature is special and has a role to play in our world". "Daddy, if only you we're here now to tell them that". Apple Bloom whispered. The young filly was then taken out of her thoughts by a tap on her shoulder. She looked up to see Reiner looking at her in concern. "Hey, you alright"? He asked. "Oh, um yeah. I'm fine. Why"? "Well why everyone was arguing in their, Twilight happened to notice you walk out, and she asked me to check on you". "Oh so Twilight's worried about, but not Applejack. Of course". Apple Bloom stated sarcastictly. Reiner looked Apple Bloom in cofusion but decieded not to push any further. Back inside the libray Rainbow Dash was getting into Twilight, and Bertholdt's faces. "I don't care what you two say It's time to pony up and confront Zecora. Come on, girls. Are you with me". "Ah am-pft"! Pinkie spat "So am I"! Rarity agreed. Fluttershy however was more hesientant then the others. "Uh, I don't know. Seems awfully dangerous". "What about you Applejack"? asked Dash. "You betcha"! Applejack stated just as Apple Bloom, and Reiner walked back in. "What's going on"? Reiner asked. "We're going to stop Zecora once and for all"! Rainbow Dash stated. "That's right"! Rarity confirmed. Twilight, Apple Bloom, Bertholdt, and Reiner all looked at the others with concernd. "But". Apple Bloom began only to be intterupted by Applejack. "Let's gather the whole town, and run Zecora out"! "YEAH"! Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash all cheered. With that all of them ran out of the libary, Applejack on Fluttershy's back while Rainbow Dash crashed into the wall, before making it out of the library and following the other four as Twilight, Spike, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom stood in the library. "What are we gonna do"? asked Apple Bloom in despair. "I don't know. They've seem to have lost it"! Twilight stated. Reiner stood with Bertholdt, thinking of how to handle the situation. "There's only one thing we can do, and that's to go to Zecora and ask her how to fix our problems". Reiner stated. This confused the others for a bit. "Are you sure that's a good idea Reiner"? asked Bertholdt. "We don't have a choice Bertholdt". Reiner told his friend. Twilight looked down before nodding her head. "You're right, we have to do this. we have to confront Zecora, and see if she can help us". "I'm going with you"! Apple Bloom stated, causing the others to look at her. "No, you stay here". Reiner told her, but Apple Bloom shook her head. "As far as I'm concerend an innocent Zebra is about to be accused and possibly arrested for a crime she didn't commint. I always belived that everything Applejack told me was true, but this, I just can't agree with what she, and the others want to do. So please Twilight, Let Me Help You"! Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt looked at Apple Bloom, and saw that she had no intentions of backing down, Twilight sighed. "Alright, you can come, but stay close to us". Apple Bloom beamed in delight. "Thank you". "I'll stay here, and uh, keep the library safe, yeah. I'm totally not afraid of Zecora". Spike chuckled nervously as Twilight rolled her eyes before leaving, and heading towards the Everfree Forest, with Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom. Meanwhile in the center of town, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy had gotten the attention of a huge crowd, with Rainbow Dash adressing them with a megaphone. "Listen up! As you can clearly see, something strange has happened to Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie. Well something happened to me too, and I'll show you". Rainbow Dash flew into the air, only to crash back down, causing the crowd to gasp. "What about Fluttershy is something wrong with her"? asked a random stalion. "Yes". Fluttershy confirmed in her deep male voice which the ponies to gasp again as Rainbow Dash continued. "The one who did this to us, was Zecora, and we need to teach her a lesson! It's time to stand tall, and run that evil witch out once and for all"! Rainbow Dash concluded. The crowd cheered in response as they all left to gather pitchforks and torches to form an angry mob. Meanwhile. Twilight, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt we're walking through the forest when they once again came across the blue plants. Seeing them caused Reiner to remember back to something Zecora had sad yesterday. Beware! Beware, you pony folk! Those leaves of blue are not a joke! This caused Reiner to stop, the others to bump into him. "What's wrong"? asked Twilight. "We shouldn't walk in those blue plants they're dangerous". Reiner stated. "Why do you think that"? asked Bertholdt. "I'm not sure, but I bet Zecora will". Reiner said as he used his magic to pick a few up, and put them into his saddle bag. After about fiffteen minutes of walking, the group finally made it to a tree that had a door. "You think this is the place"? asked Apple Bloom. "Only one way to find out". Twilight said as she knocked on the door. The four ponies waited for a few minutes before the door slowly opened, and Zecora stepped, with a look of shock on her face. "Oh, vistiors I see, what brings you to my humble home inside of a tree"? the zebra asked. The ponies just stood in place for a few momments before Twilight finally spoke up. "Hi, um Zecora right"? The zebra nodded causing Twilight to smile. "I'm Twilight Sparkle, and these are my friends, Reiner Braun, Bertholdt Hoover, and Apple Bloom. Zecora stared at the four ponies inside of her house, and it didn't take her long to notice that something was a miss with three of them. "I see you did not heed my warning about the leaves of blue, I told that they we're no joke". Zecora said dissapointly. "Yeah, that's actually what we wanted to ask you about. Reiner said as he opened his saddle bag to show the blue plants he collected, and gave them to Zecora. "What are these plants anyway"? asked Bertholdt. "This is poison joke". Zecora answered. "Poison joke"? Apple Bloom questioned. "Yes, it is very much like poison oak, but it's results are like a joke". Zecora replied. Apple Bloom just looked at her in confusion. "What does that even mean"? She asked. "It means this plant does not breed wrath. Instead this plant just wants a laugh". Zecora answered, but that only confused Apple Bloom more. "Okay, could someone please talk normal"? Twilight chuckled, realizing what Zecora was saying. "I think what she means is that when Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and I followed after Reiner and Bertholdt, we ran into the poison joke". Twilght stated before turning to the two stallions. "And when we left, you guys walked through it on our way back to Sugarcube Corner. All our problems are just little jokes it played on us". Zecora nodded. "That is quite correct my little pony". the zebra smiled. "Okay, so how do we fix this"? asked Reiner. "I need a few items to make a brew, that fix you up in no time". "Alright, well what is it you need?" asked Bertholdt. "Freshwater from a river, Honey from a beehive, Leaves from an oak tree, and a Patch of blueberries". Zecora told them. Twilight nodded. "Okay, will get those, and be right back". With that, the four ponies left Zecora's hut. They stood in silence for a bit before Twilight spoke up. "Okay so we need freshwater, honey, oak tree leaves, and blueberries. Now who's going to get which item"? "Well I can't get the honey, because I'm extremley allergic to bees". Apple Bloom stated. The group ponderd for a bit before Reiner finally thought of something. "Okay, Bertholdt and I will get the honey, and the fresh water, while Twilight, and Apple Bloom you two get the oak tree leaves, and the blueberries". The other three nodded in agreement to Reiner's plan and then split off to get their respective items. Back at the golden oak library, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy returned. They we're hoping to convice Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom to join them in driving out Zecora, but when they arrived they noticed that the four ponies where gone, leaving only Spike behind. "Spike where's Twilight"? asked Rainbow Dash. "And Reiner"? asked Rarity. "And Berthodt" asked Fluttershy. "And Apple Bloom"? asked Applejack. "They went to Zecora's place". Spike told them. "WHAT"! They all shouted in shock. "Oh no! Who knows what kind of curse is being put on them right now"! exclaimed Rarity. "Well I for one ani't gonna wait to find out, we have to get to Zecora's and fast". Applejack stated as she hoped onto Rainbow Dash's back. "Giddy-up pony"! Applejack ordered. Something Dash took great offense too. "Ex-CUSE me"? she asked as she was lauched outside the door, Rarity, Pinkie, and Fluttershy following close behind, and once again leaving Spike alone. Back in the Everfree Forest, Reiner was collecting water from a river and putting it into a bucket. Meanwhile Bertholdt was in the air, scanning trees for beehives. Finally he spotted one. "Reiner, there's a hive in that tree right there". he pointed. The two of them walked over to the tree and looked up at the hive. "Okay, time to get the honey". Reiner said. He then pulled out some kind of devices with a fan. Before they had left, Zecora had given him and Bertholdt a special pump that would shoot gas to temporarly knock the bees out. Reiner then sprayed it using all of his strength. Once the bees we're out, Bertholdt went up to collect the honney. "Okay got it". he called to Reiner. "Good, now lets get back to Zecora's". Reiner stated as he and Bertholdt went back to the hut. Elsewhere in another part of the forest, Apple Bloom was shaking the leaves off of low hang branch of an oak tree and putting them into Twilight's saddle bag. "Alright, now let's go find the blueberries". Twilight said as she pulled out a map that Zecora had given her and Apple Bloom. "I've never been this far into the forest before, even when my parents took me in order to collect materials Zap Apples". Apple Bloom stated. This caused Twilight to give her an uneasy look. (PFmeldey Plays) "Um Apple Bloom"? "Yeah Twilight"? Twilight gulped, unsure of how to ask this question, but she gathered her coruage and asked anyway. "Where are your mom and dad"? Apple Bloom paused before looking down. "They're gone". she answered. "Oh, sorry I brought it up". Twilight replied feeling guilty for talking about something that had to be a senstive subject for Apple Bloom. "It's fine, hey I'm willing to answer any questions you have". Apple Bloom said reassuringly. "Oh". Twilight smiled. She then thought of a question to ask, and came up with something. "I guess I'd like to know, which one of them did you get along the best with, because I know there are some foals who get along with their mothers best, and others who get along better with their fathers, where do you stand on that"? Twilight asked. Apple Bloom thought for a bit before replying. "Well, Applejack defenitly got along the best with Ma, and Big Mac had a better realtionship with Daddy, but for me. I'd have to say both of them. I remember, my mother and I would bake together in the kitchen, all kinds of deserts and pastries, and daddy would let me watch him buck trees to get their apples, telling me that I too would do that one day". Twilight smiled, as Apple Bloom kept telling stories of memmories of her parents. She was so intriqued by them that she didn't notice that they found a blueberry bush, but Apple Bloom did. "Hey there's a bush"! she called out. Twilight noticed it and smiled. The two of them gathered the blueberries and made their way back to Zecora's. Meanwhile, at Zecora's the others had made it and we're looking inside, where Rarity was able to catch a reflection of herself. "Ugh I look horrible". she complained. "Plis place plooks horrible"! Pinkie Pie stated, causing Rarity to take a closer look. "Oh my, you're right Pinkie, this place does look horrible". Rarity said before eyeing the mask that we're around the hut. "Nice decorations, if you like creepy"! The ponies then gasped when they noticed Zecora mixing something into a coldron. "Sthe sthtole my sthong! Shthe shtole mm mm"! Pinkie exclaimed. "She stole your song"? asked Rarity. "Ugh Pinkie that sounds nothing like your song". Rainbow Dash pointed out causing Pinkie to frown. She then threw herself at Fluttershy and gave her a pleading look, causing Fluttershy to sigh and start singing the song. She's an evil enchantress And she does evil dances And if you look deep in her eyes She will put you in trances Then what would she do? She'll mix up an evil brew Then she'll gobble you up In a big tasty stew Soooo... Watch out. Rarity looked inside. "Twilight and the others had to have seen this". she stated. then she gasped when she and the others heard Zecora speak. "Mmm! The perfect temperature for ponies, I presume. Now, where are those four". Rarity gasped. "She's making soup out of our friends"! she exclaimed She, Pinkie, and Fluttershy all screamed in horror, while Applejack force Rainbow Dash to break down the door. "I'm comin' for ya, Apple Bloom"! The ponies bursted through the door shocking Zecora. "Whoa there. Easy, Rainbow Crash". Applejack stated before leaping on the Zecora. "What have ya done with our friends"! she demanded confusing Zecora. Pinkie Pie then came in and knocked over the coldron, greatly shocking Zecora. "No! No! You do not know what you have done". The zebra cried out. "We're on to you Zecora"! Rainbow Dash stated. "You made me look ridiculous". Rarity shouted. "You made me sound ridiculous". Fluttershy added. "You made me speak ridiculous". Pinkie Pie spat. "You ruined Twilight's horn, made Reiner old, and did something strange to Bertholdt's wing"! Rainbow Dash finished. All these accuasations only succeded in making Zecora even angrier. "How Dare you You destroy my home, destroy my work, then rudely accuse me of being a jerk". she retorted, but Rainbow Dash was unfazed. "You put this curse on us, now you're gonna uncurse us". she stated. It is unwise to venture down this road. Your actions will make my anger explode! Zecora scolded. "Where are our friends. Rainbow Dash demaned, before she was intterupted by a voice. "Zecora we got the stuff". Everyone turned to see Twilight, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Berthodt standing in the door way looking confused. "What's going on here"? asked Reiner. Applejack noticed them and sighed in relief. Ya'll are okay!. "Yeah, why wouldn't we be"? asked Berthodt. "Because Zecora is an evil enchantress who cursed us and was gonna cook you up into soup"! Rainbow Dash accused. This caused Zecora and the four other ponies to start laughing. "Oh girls, I told you there was no such thing as curses". Twilight stated. Rainbow Dash looked at her in confusion. "Twilight look at us. You can't just say this isn't a curse"! "Alright, I won't, but she will". Twilight said pointing to Apple Bloom who walked past Rainbow Dash. "This isn't a curse". Reiner then explained. "You see, that blue patch of plants we stepped into, they're called poison joke, and everything that happend to us we're just little jokes it played on us". "Little jokes?! Very funny". Applejack stated in annoyance. Rainbow Dash sighed after hearing this. "Okay fine, but what about the coldron". she asked "And the chanting"? asked Fluttershy "And the creepy decor"? asked Rarity. "Treasures of the native land where I am from. This one speaks 'hello', and this 'welcome". Zecora explained. "Not welcoming at all if you asked me. Rarity stated". "The words I chanted were from olden times. Something you call a nursery rhyme". Zecora explained again. "But still, the soup"? Rainbow Dash asked asked Apple Bloom walked up to her "Lookie here Dash, that pot of water wasn't for us, it was for all these herbal ingredients. The cure for poison joke is a simple old-natural remedy. You just gotta take a bubble bath". Twilight then spoke up. "That is one thing that does confuse me, because I looked all over for a cure and couldn't find one in any of my books". Zecora smiled and took out the book Twilight was looking for, which was too her shock the same one Spike had shown her. "Here is the book, you see? Sad that you lack it in your library". " Actually, I do have this book, but I didn't look inside because the title was so... Weird". Twilight stated before looking down in shame. "I...I... I'm so sorry, Zecora. I had the answer the whole time, if only I had bothered to look inside". Twilight apolgoized, causing Zecora to chuckle. "Maybe next time you will take a second look, and not judge the cover of the book". Rarity then looked over to Zecora. "Zecora? Would you be kind enough to mix up another batch of the herbal bath"? she asked. Zecora nodded. "Mix it up I certainly will. Yet I am missing an herb from Ponyville". "But whenever she comes into town, the shops are all closed for some reason". Said Apple Bloom. "I think we can help with that". Twilight stated. Walking back into ponyville, the eleven ponies we're spotted by the flower ponies. "Look Rose! How awful"! Daisy exclaimed "The wicked enchantress has cursed them all". Rose cried out. "The horror, the horror"! shouted Lilly, as everypony hid inside their houses, while the arriving ponies went up to the flower shop, and knocked on the door, causind Daisy to slowly open it. "Daisy, we need to talk". Said Reiner. About fiffteen minutes later The mane eight we're inside the bath, while Twilight was resiting her latest letter to Princess Celestian Dear Princess Celestia, My friends and I all learned an important lesson this week: Never judge a book by its cover. Someone may look unusual, or funny, or scary. But you have to look past that and learn who they are inside. Real friends don't care what your "cover" is; it's the "contents" of a pony that count. And a good friend, like a good book, is something that will last forever. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle Once Twilight was done. Lotus Blossom came up to Zecora. "Miss Zecora, I would love to get the recipe for this bath. It's simply luxurious"! It was then that Apple Bloom noticed that Applejack was missing. "Applejack! Where's Applejack"! They all began to panic and look for the orange earth pony until they heard her voice. "I'm right here little sis, I ain't tiny no more". Applejack stated. Rairty couldn't help but smile. "Oh! I have never felt so lovely in all my life"! Then Pinkie Pie spoke "Oh, my gosh! I never realized how horrible it is not to be able to talk. I mean I love talking so much, and when I couldn't talk anymore, my tongue was all 'ehhhh'! It was the worst Don't you agree, Fluttershy? "Yes" Fluttershy said, in her normal voice, and everyone laughed. That night, Reiner layed in his bed, thinking about his past. First he remember his comrades from the 104th. Then his mother talking to him, and how he trained to become a warrior. "We we're abandoned". His mother told him. "That's why we live in this walled ghetto", she contiued. "The devils blood flows through our veins. If we're not locked up then we'll bother everyone else. That's why your dad isn't here, because he's a Marleyan, and it's forbidden for Marleyans to love Eldians. His mother told him. "So this is a secret okay"? "Yes". Reiner Replied "We can't be with him, because we're eldians, decendents of the devil". "If only you we're born Marleyan. she whispered with tears in her eyes". That's right, I wanted to be a warrior in order to become an honrary Marleyan and live happliy with my Mother and Father (ArmyGo Plays) Later, Reiner was running through the rain with a bunch of other children. as a soldier on horse back was shouting at them. "Who told you to walk you filthy devils, get running"! "Damn. Reiner mutterd as one of the boys past him". "Marcel Galliard"! You pass! Next he was shooting targets, but kept missing, however Bertholdt was on point with the target. "Berthodlt Hoover! You pass" "Dammit"! Reiner complained. Reiner then found himself being flipped over by Annie. "Annie Leonhardt! You pass"! Next he was taking a written test. "Damn, Damn, Damn" he muttered. Once the test was over, Reiner held his breath, then he heard his name. "Reienr Braun! You pass"! A huge smile formed on Reiner's face as he rushed home to show his mother. "Mom! I was chosen as a warrior cadet"! "That's wonderful. Now we're only one step away from being honarary Marleyans". his mother smiled. "Yeah, I promise that one day, I'll inherit one of the nine titans". Reiner told his mother The next they, Reiner, Bertholdt, Annie, Zeke, Marcel, Porco, and Nova we're all in the field traning "Did you know that the pardis island operation will be happening in a few years"? asked Zeke "The time for us to inherit the Titans has come". "Huh"? asked Reiner. "The war with the south will be over soon, and we will be victourus. After that the time for us to be warriors will approrch. I heard that they'll be reorginizing the warrior unit as part of the army's new structure. Out of the seven of us. six will take the power of the Titans". Zeke explained. Hearing this caused Reiner to smile. "Yes. I did it, now I can become a Marlyean". Porco looked at him judgemently. "You didn't do anything" he told Reiner, causing the other boy to look up at him, as Porco continued. "You're clearly the weakest one out of all of us. If anyone is getting left behind, It's you". "What did you say". Reiner asked, his anger growing, and Porco contiued. "What are you good at exactaly? Are you strong? Smart? A good shot? A good fighter? No you're not, you're none of those, the only thing they saw in you, was that you're extremley loyal to Marley. I respect you for that. You always make sure to licking the captains boots. Yes sir I'll kill the island devils sir". Porco stated while mocking Reiner, causing the other boys anger to flare up as got into Porco's face. "Don't you know who lives on that island?! Demons who brought fear to the entire world"! Reiner exclaimed shocking Porco who stepped back "Woah"! "It's only a matter of time before they start killing us, unless we kill them first"! Reiner contiued. "Are you insulting are mission! Or, are you one of those remaining Eldian Restorationists who support King Fritz"?! Reiner asked. "Admit it! It's true! I'll report you to Captain Magath"! Reiner yelled, enraging Porco who reeled his fist back, and clocked Reiner in the face "What's the matter with you"?! Porco yelled at Reiner as Marcel ran up to them. "Porco Stop"! he exclaimed as he pulled his brother back, while Porco was still yelling at Reiner, who was now on the verge of tears. "Anyone here can say how much they hate that island! You can stay here and take care of the place by yourself for the next thriteen years". Porco said to Reiner who was crying now. "Damnit". Reiner muttered as Porco began to walk away. "Let's go". Porco said to Marcel "Sorry Reiner". Marcel whispered, as he and Porco left. Come as soon as he's done crying. Zeke said to Annie, and Bertholdt who had stayed behind. "I'm gonna catch another beating from Magath if you're late". Zeke told the three of them Bertholdt walked over to Reiner and helped him to his feet. "Reiner, stand". Reiner took Bertholdt's hand and stood up. "I need to be a Marlyean now. I can't wait thirteen years, I need to inherit one of the nine titan powers so that my mom and dad can be together". Reiner stated. "What do you mean"? asked Bertholdt "I can't say". Reiner replied. "We don't know who's going to have to wait yet. Porco doesn't decied who inherits a Titan, the Marleyan army does". Bertholdt informed Reiner. "But he's right. I'm at the bottom of the list". Reiner stated. "Are you sure"? because I think Loyalty is important. Wouldn't you agree Annie? Bertholdt asked the young girl, who turned around in confusion. "What was that? Sorry I wasn't paying attention". she admitted before leaving. "Come on". she said to the two boys, who followed after her, and kept talking. "But are you really okay with this"? asked Bertholdt. "What do you mean"? Reiner asked back "Well. You'd only get to enjoy life for thirteen years. Bertholdt stated. "But then I'd be a hero. If I can punish the devils of Paradis Island who strike fear into all of us, then I'd be able to save Eldia, no the whole world, and then. I'd make my parents the proudest ever". Reiner declared Elsewhere a young Eren Yeager with sitting in the crash looking up at a huge wall. "I wish something would happen". Eren said as Armin came running up to him. "There you are Eren"! Preview When Fluttershy discovers a strange new creature she quickly takes it to show her friends, but soon one creautre turns into many, and Ponyville is infested. To make matters worse. Princess Celestia is visting the town that day. Next Episode. Swarm of the Centruy. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Twilight Sparkle Spike Apple Bloom Bertholdt Hoover Reiner Braun Applejack Rainbow Dash Rarity Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Zecora Bright Macintosh (Flashback) Minnuette Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Dr. Hooves Goldengrape Daisy Rose Lily Valley Pear Butter (Flashback) Big Macintosh (Flashback) Lotus Blossom Sasha Braus (Flashback) Keith Shadis (Flashback) Connie Springer (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Thomas Wagner (Flashback) Sameul Linkie-Jackson (Flashback) Mina Carolina (Flashback) Ymir (Flashback) Historia Reiss (Flashback) Karina Braun (Flashback) Theo Magath (Flashback) Marcel Galliard (Flashback) Porco Galliard (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Zeke Yeager (Flashback) Pieck Finger (Flashback) Episode 15: Swarm of the Centrury: Gala Arc Part 8On the outskirts of the Everfree Forest, Fluttershy and her animal friends where collecting flowers, now on a normal day, any flower would have been fine, but on this particular day, Princess Celestia was making a visit to ponyville, and Fluttershy knew that the flowers had to be extra special. "La, la la, la la, la la, la la". She sang as a squriel came up to her and presented a flower he had collected for her, causing the pegagus to smile. "Thank you little squirrel, but remember: these flowers are for Princess Celestia. Only the prettiest ones will do". Fluttershy told him, as she kept singing. "La, la la, la la, la la, la la". All of a sudden, she heard a chirp which caused her to jump behind the cart she had with her. She remained their until she saw what was making the chirping noise. It was a small, strange, yet super cute creature. "Oh, hello there little guy". Fluttershy said, unsure of what to make of this strange new creature. "I've never seen anything like you before". Fluttershy then noticed that the thing was sniffing the fruit in her basket, so she decieded to be nice and feed it. "Oh, are you hungry"? she asked. She then gave a small piece of fruit to the strange creature. It respondeded by devouring the whole basket shocking Fluttershy. "Oh my, I guess you we're hungry". she giggled. The creature then flew into Fluttershy's hair, and began to rest. Fluttershy couldn't help but smile at how adorable the creature was. "You're the cutest thing ever! I can't wait to show you to my friends". she said as she trotted off into town. At the Golden Oak, Twilight was rushing around trying to clean the place in order for it to be ready for Princess Celestia's visit. " Oh! Hurry up, Spike! This place isn't gonna clean itself". she told her dragon assiastant. "It also didn't mess itself up". Spike grumbled, Twilight however heard him and shot him a glare. "She'll be here tommorow"! She stated. "I thought this was just an unofficial casual visit". Spike said. "There's nothing casual about a visit from royalty. I want this place to be spotless, and you've barely made a dent in the clutter". Twilight retorted. Spike just groaned and contiuned. "Maybe you should, ugh, start reading them one at a time-- whoa ho! Aw". Spike had tripped and fallen over one of the many books Twilight had scattered across the floor, causing her to roll her eyes. "Everything's got to be perfect. No time for fooling around". Spike grunted as he got to his feet. "You know, this would be an awful lot easier if there weren't two of us here getting under each other's feet". Twilight smiled at Spike's idea and jumped to her hoofs. "Great idea. You clean, I'll go see how everyone else's preparations are coming". "That's not what I! Spike tried to protest but Twilight was already gone". (2chi Plays) Twilight trotted through Ponyville, so far everything was looking well for Princess Celestia's visit, as she walked admiring the decarations she heard a voice call out to her. "Good morning Twilght". Twilight turned and saw Reiner Braun walking up to her. "Oh, hello Reiner, how are you doing"? Twilight asked. "I'm fine." Reiner replied, "What are you doing out". he then asked. Twilight smiled. "I'm just checking to make sure everything is perfect for Princess Celestia's visit" she responded before asking "Do you wanna help". "Sure thing". Reiner replied. The two of them walked through the town, spotting Apple Bloom working on a drawing for the visit. Reiner walked up to her and put his hoof on her shoulder. "That's a nice drawing". he compliemeted. Apple Bloom, not knowing Reiner was even behind her yelped in suprise, before grabbing Reiner's hoof, and then flipping him onto his back, causing Reiner to groan in pain. Once Apple Bloom realized what she did, she gasped in suprise. "Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry Reiner, but you should know never to sneak up on a girl like that"! Apple Bloom scolded. "Dully noted". Reiner groaned. Apple Bloom gave him a small smile. "I'll go get you an icepack", she said before trotting away. "Thank you". Reiner groaned again, as Twilight walked over to him, chuckling. "You okay". she asked. Reiner groaned as he stood up. "Yeah". "Apple Bloom's right you know. You should never sneak up on ponies, especialy a girl". Twilight stated just as Apple Bloom returned with an icepack for Reiner, who put it on his forhead. "So what are y'all doing anyways". Apple Bloom asked. "We're just checking on preperations for the Princess's visit tommorow". Twilight explained. "Wanna help". she asked. "Sure I'm pretty much done here". Apple Bloom responed as she let the two older ponies look at her drawing. Twilight and Reiner stared at it, and their jaws dropped and how detailed and accruate it was". "Apple Bloom". Twilight began. "This is amazing, I never knew you we're such a talent artist". Apple Bloom blushed. "Aww, thanks Twilight". "Well then, let's go see how everyone else is doing". Twilight stated. The three ponies walked through the park admring all the hardwork everypony was doing. Apple Bloom in particular was excited to see everyone working so hard and felt honored that Twilight asked her to help out. Twilight and Reiner too we're glad to see everything seemed to be going smoothly, that was until Twilight saw the welcome banner hung up by Golden Harvest and Berry Punch. It didn't take long for Twilight to notice something was wrong as she walked over to the two mares. "What happened to the rest of her name"? Twilight asked. "We couldn't fit it all in". Golden Harvest explained Twilight frowned at that excuse. "You can't hang up a banner that says welcome Princess Celest! Take it down and start over". Twilight demanded. Reiner in the meantime walked over to Bon Bon who was watering flowers. "That looks amazing, keep up the good work". he complemeted. Eventually the three of them made their way to Sugarcube Corner to check on the baking. "Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Cake. How's the banquet coming". Twilight asked. "Oh it would be coming alot better if" Mrs. Cake explained before pointing over to Pinkie Pie who was eating all the deserets. "Pinkie! What are you doing? Those sweets are for Princess Celestia"! Reiner exclaimed. I know. That's why I'm tasting them. Somepony needs to make sure that everything is tasty enough to touch the royal tongue, and I, Pinkie Pie, declare that these treats are fit for a king, or a queen, or a princess! Pinkie explained causing Reiner to roll his eyes. They were then intterupted by Fluttershy's voice. "Twilight, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Reiner, you'll never believe...." Fluttershy stopped and looked down sheepishly. "Oh sorry, am I intteruping something"? She asked shyly. "Not at all, come on in"! Pinkie Pie smiled. Fluttershy smiled back and got a very excited look on her face. "You'll never believe what I found at the edge of the everfree forest. Come on out little guy". As Fluttershy said this, the creature popped out of her fur, but it was then followed by four others, shocking Fluttershy. "Five"? Twilight and Apple Bloom looked at the creatures in aww. "They're amazing. What are they"? asked Twilight. "I'm not sure, I also don't know where these other four came from". Fluttershy explained. "I'll take one off your hooves. I've never seen anything so... adorable". Twilight said as she hugged one of them, before chuckling nervously. "Besides, it'll be nice to have a companion for Spike so he won't bother me so much while I'm studying". "I'd like one too. They look absoultley precious". Apple Bloom stated as one landed onto her hoof". Fluttershy looked over to Reiner and Pinkie Pie. "How about you two"? she asked. "Sure, why not it might be interesting to have one of these little guys around". Reiner replied. Pinkie Pie however wasn't as thrilled as the others seemed to be. "Ugh a parasprite! Are you kidding". she exclaimed in disgust. "Ugh"? asked Fluttershy in confusion. "A Para what"? asked Twilight. "How could you not like"? Fluttershy began only to be intteruppted by Pinke Pie as she left sugarcube corner. "Now I have to find a trombone"! she stated. "A what". asked Reiner. "A trombone, you know" Pinkie Pie then began to imitate the sound of said instrument. "Why do you need a trombone"? Apple Bloom asked, but Pinkie Pie was already long gone. Twilight sighed. "Ahhh, typical Pinkie". She then turned to Apple Bloom, and Reiner. "I'm gonna go check on Rarity and see how she's doing with the dresses". She told them "Okay, bye Ms. Twilight". Apple Bloom waved At the Carousel Botique Rarity was trying to fit Rainbow Dash in a dress, but the pegagus wasn't willing to hold still, and wanted to do anything else besides be fittied for a dress. With them was Bertholdt Hoover who was wearing a tan colored suit, and tie. "Stand still, Rainbow Dash". Rarity ordered "I cannn't, I need to flyyy. This is wayyyy toooo boring for me". Dash complained. "You didn't hear Mr. Hoover complaing now did you"? Rarity questioned. Rainbow Dash just groaned as Bertholdt chuckled when Twilight walked in through the door and noticed the dresses, a smile forming on her face. "Wow. Rarity, those outfits are gorgeous". Rarity smiled at Twilight's complement. "Thank you Twilight it's nice to know that at least two ponies appreciates my talents". Rarity stated shooting Rainbow Dash a glare. "Ugh sooooooo Booooring" Dash complained. All of a sudden the creature that Twilight got from Fluttershy chirpped and came out of Twilight's fur with 3 others in tow, confusing the mare. "Wow, what are they"? asked Rainbow Dash. "The better question is, where did they come from? I only had one a minute ago". Twilight explained. " Uh, I'll take one". Rainbow Dash offered. "Me too, oh, they're perfect". Stated Rarity. "How about you Bertholdt"? asked Twilight. Bertholdt thought for a bit, as he looked at one of the creatures. "Sure, I'm pretty sure if I didn't, I'd regret it later" the stalion said when Pinkie Pie walked in. "Does anypony know where I can find an accordion"? she asked only to be ignored. "Um you guys? Hello". Currently Publicly Avalible Imformation Parapristes. Small adorble little flying insects who despite they're cute features are known to mutilpe very quickly and eat anything in site. Apple Bloom trotted through the town, still admiring all the hardwork everypony was doing to ensure that Princess Celestia's vist was special, but then her mind went back to what happened at sugarcube corner. "Now I need a trombone"!. "What would Pinkie Pie need a trombone for, and why did she have such a negative attitude to the cretures"? Apple Bloom pondered this for a while, until she felt herself bump into to someone, who took her out of her thoughts with a shocked. "Woah Nelly"! Apple Bloom looked up, and was greated by the curious look of her older sister Applejack. "Oh, sorry Applejack, I didn't see you there". Apple Bloom explained. Applejack raised her eyebrow, and gave Apple Bloom a look. "Ya alright their Apple Bloom"? she asked. Apple Bloom was confused by Applejack's question. "Yeah, why wouldn't I be"? "Because you seemed to be lost in thought, and I know you. You always pay attention to your surrondings unless you're really thinking hard about something". Applejack explained. Apple Bloom sighed. "Yeah I guess I am lost in thought". "You wanna tell me what's on yer mind". Asked Applejack. "Okay, look what Fluttershy gave me". Apple Bloom said as she looked up at her hair. That was when not one, but four of the creautres came out, shocking the little filly. Applejack was shocked as well. "Apple Bloom, what are these things". "I'm not sure, but I do rememebr Pinkie Pie calling them........... Parasprites". And Fluttershy gave you four of them? asked Applejack. "She gave me one". Apple Bloom explained. Then she remembered the same thing happened with Fluttershy. "When Fluttershy came to show them to Twilight, Reiner, Pinkie Pie, and I she also claimed that she only origninally had one, but then one became five, and now I took one, and it became for, so that's one thing we can learn about these creatures, is that they can multiplie very quickly, question is how though"? "That's a question for later, right now we're going to have to figure out a place to keep them, if that's alirght with you". Asked Applejack. Apple Bloom nodded. "You know another thing that confused me, was that Pinkie Pie said she needed a trombone". Apple Bloom stated. "Why woud she need a trombone"? asked Applejack. "I don't know, just Pinkie Pie being Pinkie Pie I guess". Apple Bloom answered The two Apple Siblings bursted out laughing as they headed for Sweet Apple Acres That night, Twilight finally returned home after checking on all the preprations for the visit tommorow. "The decorations, the banquet, I really hope everything comes together in time for tomorrow". "She looked at Spike snoring, and then at the creature and gave a small smile. "Oh, what can go wrong". The next moring Twilight awoke to find a startling suprise waiting for her. The creature had mutiplied again, and now this time, instead of four, their were at least a hundred flying around her house. "Spike! Wake up! What happend!? Twilight asked in a panic. Spike looked around in complete shock "Huh? Whaaa! What's going on"? "Where did they all come from"? asked Twilight. "I don't know. The little guy got hungry in the night, so I gave him a snack, but... I have no idea where these others came from". Spike answered before noticing that they we're making a mess of the libaray all over again. "Oh no they're ruining all my hard work"! He complained while Twilight herself looked around in a panic. "The princess will be here in a few hours! Spike help me round them up"! she exclaimed. "Ugh, what does it look like I'm doin"? Spike asked before once again falling off the ladder. "Ooow, waaah! D'oh. I know, I know, stop fooling around". At her home cloud home, Rainbow Dash was awoken by the sight of serveal of the creatures. No matter how hard she tried to escape they just kept flying around her. Meanwhile in their house, Reiner and Bertholdt we're doing the best they could to keep the creatures in check. "Why did we agree to take two of them"? Bertholdt asked rhetoricly. On Sweet Apple Acres, the creatures we're contained in a giant enclousers as per Apple Bloom's sugestion. She stood their with Applejack, the two of them we're sweating but had smiles on their faces as Apple Bloom turned to face Applejack. "And you said this was going to be a waste of time when Daddy and I we're building it". Applejack just rolled her eyes, and smiled when all of a sudden Pinkie Pie came right out of nowhere and tackled Applejack to the ground. "Hi Applejack, Apple Bloom" the pink earth pony smiled. "Ugh, Pinkie Pie, what the hay are you doing"? asked Applejack. "Oh! I need a harmonica! Do you have a harmonica, oh please, oh please say you have one"! Pinkie praticly begged the orange pony. "Uh yeah, I do actually". Applejack said as she pulled one out, and gave it to Pinkie Pie. "Oh thank you thank you"! she said. "Um Pinkie, why do you need all these instruments"? asked Apple Bloom, but Pinkie Pie was already long gone. Unfourtenlty though, when she ran off Pinkie aciedently unlocked the gate keeping the creatures inside the enclourse, allowing them outside. Apple Bloom was able to jump out of the way in time before they came swarming, Applejack. Was not so lucky as they flew right by her, making her disy, and dazed. "Applejack, You okay"? Apple Bloom asked in concern. "Uh, I'll take a side order of fries with those Chicken Mcfingers". Applejack state in a daze. At her botique, Rarity was more or so accepting of the fact that the creatures had mutiplied, as they we're helping her with her work. "Not only are you adorable, but you're also quite useful". One of them came over and landed on Rarity's hoof, purring, but then it started to gag causing Rarity to become concerned. "Oh, are you alright". She asked it only for the creature to then throw up another one of itself right infront of Rarity, grossing her out. "Aaah! Eewwww! Aaah! Gross gross gross! No creature that behaves so revoltingly is allowed in my boutique"! Rarity exclaimed. The creature responed by once again vomiting another one, causing her to scream. As Rarity tried to round them up, Pinkie Pie suddendly came bursting through the door with a huge smile on her face. "Rarity look! Applejack gave me a harmonica"! She said in excitment before noticing the swarm. "And not a moment too soon"! she gasped. Rarity however was in no mood to hear about Pinkie's musical instrument. "Pinkie I'm a little busy at the moment". "And I'm not"? You know how many more instruments I've gotta find? a lot! that's how many. Now if we split the list between us, we might just make it in time". Rarity only rolled her eyes in response. "Pinkie I don't have time to take part in your little scavanger hunt I've got a real problem"! Rarity stated. "You've got a real problem, all right. And a banjo is the only answer"! Pinkie Pie responded. Rarity just walked away from Pinkie. Elsewhere, Twilight was rushing through the park with the creatures in her bag, when she saw Rarity, and gasped. Rarity herself stopped and walked up to Twilight. "I see you and I are having the same problem". Rarity stated. "Dito". They heard Rainbow Dash say as she flew by, with the things in hot pursuit. "Yeah, us two". Reiner said as he and Bertholdt came up to the group. "And you ani't the only ones". Applejack called out as she and Apple Bloom joined up with the others as well. "How could this have happened"? asked Apple Bloom. "Im not sure, but Fluttershy is an expert on animals. I'm sure she can figure out how to make them stop mutilplying". Twilight stated. So the group raced over to Fluttershy's cottage with the hopes of figuring out how to stop the spread of these creatures, but once they arrived, they saw that her house was infested with them. "Or, maybe not". Twilight muttered. The Parasprites kept swarming around the cottage as Fluttershy tried to gather them up. "Ugh Fluttershy do something! Can't you get them under control"! asked Reiner. "I've tried everything I know: I've tried begging, and pleading, and beseeching, and asking politely"! Fluttershy exclaimed. Twilight then had a vision of Princess Celestia arrving in ponyville and the parasptrties capturing her. "If we can't get them under control before the princess arrives, it'll be a total disaster". Another Parasprite went up infront of Rarity and once again through up in her face. "Ew! If you ask me, it's already a total disaster". "What do we do"? asked Fluttershy in a panic. They all thought for a moment, until Reiner came up with an idea. "I got it"! He exclaimed before turning to face the Apple Sisters. "Applejack, no one can herd like you". Rainbow Dash smiled at Reiner's plan. "Yeah! We can drive 'em back into the forest". she stated excietedly. Applejack thought for a bit, before nodding her head. Alright, I'll rastle 'em up, but I need everypony's help to do it. Twilight, you Reiner, Apple Bloom and Rarity wait over there. I'll herd the little critters straight at ya like a funnel. Rainbow Dash, you, Bertholdt, and Fluttershy stay on top of 'em, don't let 'em fly away. "Aye aye". Said Rainbow Dash "Yeeeeeee-haw"! Applejack exclaimed (進撃 st-hrn-egt20130629 巨人 Plays) Applejack charged towards a group of parasprites, getting them into one place. Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt did the same, and so did, Twilight, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Rarity until finally, all of them we're in a massive ball that the eight ponies starting rolling into the Everfree Forest. "Alright y'all, here goes nothin". Said Applejack before she noticed one was trying to fly out of the ball. " Look out Rarity, that one's fixin' to get away". Fourtently, Rainbow Dash prevented it from doing so. "Keep a lead on 'em, Rainbow Dash"! AJ called out, as the group got closer to the edge of the forest. "That's it! We're almost their"! Reiner pointed out. Twilight had a huge look of determantion on her face, but she was also relieved as well. "Is this really going to work, have we actually saved Princess Celestia's visit"? She thought. Twilight Smiled, thinking everything was going to work out, until she saw Pinkie Pie running right next to her. "Pinkie"? Twilight asked in confusion as she didn't know where the earth pony had even come from. "Twilight, we don't have much time". Pinkie stated. "You're telling me. The princess could arrive at any moment". Twilight responded. "Exactly. That's why I need you gals to drop what you're doing and help me find some maracas". Pinkie said, but that only succeeded in confusing Twilight even more. "Maracas? Pinkie, we've got much bigger problems than missing maracas". Pinkie gasped in shock, realizing that Twilight was on to something, she smiled. "You're right! Getting a tuba has to be our number one goal. Follow me". When no one follwed her, Pinkie Pie turned to face them. "I said follow me". "Pinkie Pie, you are so random". said Rainbow Dash. "And you are all so stubborn"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Forget her ladies. Focus. Head 'em up and move 'em out". Applejack stated. Apple Bloom was the only one who felt kind of bad for not listening to Pinkie Pie, but she knew she had to stay focus on the task she was helping with right now. Soon the massive ball of parasprites we're finally in the everfree forest, and they rolled far away. "Alright"! Rainbow Dash cheered, as she high hooved Bertholdt, and then Fluttershy. "Ouch". Fluttershy said meekley. Twilight, and Reiner both smiled at eachother, pleased that their work had paid off. "We did it! Nice work Applejack"! Reiner stated. "Yeah big sis, you we're amazing"! said Apple Bloom Applejack smiled sat her friends. "Couldn't a'done it without y'all". Twilight smiled as well, before turning to the others. "Now let's get back and clean up the mess they made before the princess arrives". The group walked back to Fluttershy's cottage, and the yellow pegasugs went to open the door, but when she did, another a swarm of parasprites came out, causing everyone to gasp. "Where did they come from"?! asked Bertholdt. They all looked over to Fluttershy, who had her head down in shame. "Well, I may have kept just one. Heh". Fluttershy chuckled nervously. "I couldn't help myself. They're just so cute". she explained. Twilight looked over at the swarm in a panic. "We don't have time to keep rounding up these things". She exclaimed. "Well what do we do"? asked Bertholdt. That was when Rainbow Dash flew up into the air. "We call in the weather patrol"! she proclaimed, and then proceeded to make a small sized tornado that began to suck up all the parasprites. "Time to take out the adorable trash. YAAAAAA"! "Way to go, Rainbow Dash"! Twilight called out. Soon all the parasprites had been sucked up by Dash's tornado, which was heading towards the Everfree Forest. "Looks like all our problems are solved". Applejack smiled, but everything changed when Pinkie Pie came back. "They will be with these cymbals". Unfourtenlty though, the wind was so strong, that it pulled Pinkie Pie's cymbals right away from her and into the tornado. "Hey! Give me those back"! Pinkie exclaimed. The cymbals flew into the Tornado, causing mayhame and breaking up Rainbow Dash's concetration. "Whoa. Yaa! Yow! Whoa! Wow! I can't hold it! She's breaking up". Dash called out. Soon enough, the tornado fell apart, and all the parasprites escaped into Ponyville. Was the shock of the situotion passed, they all glared at the Pink Earth Pony who was responsible for the mess. "Pinke Pie! What have you done"! exclaimed Reiner "I've lost a brand new pair of cymbals, that's what I've done. "Will you forget about your silly instruments for one second? You're ruining our efforts to save Ponyville"! Twilight scolded causing Pinkie Pie to gasp, insualted. "Me? Ruin? I'm not the ruiner, I'm the ruin-ee! Or is it ruiness? Ruinette? Applejack walked past her, looking towards the others. "Come on girls, there's no reasoning with that one. She's a few apples short of a bushel". The others began to move past Pinkie Pie as she kept trying to talk to them. "Hey! I'm trying to tell you all that the ruining is on the other hoof. If you'd just slow down and listien to me"! Apple Bloom was the only one who stopped and looked back at Pinkie. She really wanted to know why Pinkie Pie needed those instruments, and what was so important about them. Part of Apple Bloom wanted to walk over to Pinkie Pie, just to make her feel better, but she was stopped by Applejack calling out to her. "Let's go Apple Bloom". Apple Bloom heistated for a moment, before deceiding to turn around and go with the others, leaving Pinkie Pie alone. The group arrived in Ponyville, just in time to see the parasprites causing mayham, and distruction. "What do we do? They're eating all the food in town"! Fluttershy stated, as a swarm went stright to a basket of Apples. "My Apples"! Shouted Applejack. "We've gotta do something."! Shouted Twilight. She looked around, trying to think of something to do that could stop them, then a lightbulb appeared above her head. "I got it! I'll cast a spell to make them stop eating all the food". Using her magic, Twilight created the spell she was thinking off, and it seemed to worked, all the parasprites stopped eating the food just as Pinkie came over. "Look, tambourines! If you could all just..." But once again only Apple Bloom paid attention to Pinkie Pie, as the others were too busy gawking at the parasprites, wondering what they we're going to do next. One flew towards a basket with a single apple inside. Twilight watched in anticaption, wondering what it would do. To her relief, the parasprite sniffed the apple, and poked it's head in disgust. Twilight sighed in relief, until the parasprite opened it's mouth, and ate the basket, and soon all of them we're eating objects, instead of food. Twilight's spell had failed. Rainbow Dash glared at Twilight. "Heh, hey it worked, they're not eating to food". she said sarcastilcy "This is no time to be sarcastic Rainbow Dash". Reiner stated. "Yeah now they're eating the town, what do we do"? asked Bertholdt. They all stood in place for serveal mintues, until Apple Bloom finally spoke up. "Um guys". "Yeah Apple Bloom"? asked Twilight. Apple Bloom gulped, knowing that she was taking a big risk with her idea, but she felt as if might be the only one. "I think we should hear out Pinkie Pie". Apple Bloom stated Twilight looked at Apple Bloom in confusion, before speaking. "We don't have time with the princess arrving". Twilight was intterupted by Apple Bloom before she could finish her statment. "I know Princess Celestia is arriving soon, but I also remember that she sent you here to learn the magic of friendship, and one thing friends do, is listen to eachother. Even if what they're saying sounds silly, good friends would always hear eachother out, even if it doesn't seem important, and also no offense but you all we're pretty mean to Pinkie Pie early. I know she caused all this, but she didn't do it on purpose. To me it looked like she was trying to help. Everyone looked at eachother after Apple Bloom finshed, before Applejack sighed. "Apple Bloom is right, we weren't being good friends to Pinkie Pie". "But how can we find Pinkie, and protect the town"? asked Fluttershy. That was when Reiner came up with an Idea. "I got it, Bertholdt, Apple Bloom, and I will go ask Pinkie Pie why she wants those instruments, and the rest of you can try and figure out a way to stop these things". Twilight thought for a moment, before nodding her head. "Ok go find Pinkie while we try to do something". Rarity then noticed that the swarm was heading towards her botique. "Oh no... if they get inside my store... EVERYPONY FOR HERSELF"! she shouted as she ran into the store, just in time to see the parasprites eating all her fabric. "My outfits! Go on, shoo! Get out of here, you naughty! Naughty"! Just then Pinkie Pie came into the store with a recorder. "I'll save you"! she proclaimed as she started to chase the parasprites around the botique. That action however only caused Rarity more stress. Pinkie Pie did however manage to chase them out of the botique where she ran into Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt. "Pinkie Stop"! Apple Bloom called out to her. The pink earth pony did and turned to face the three. "What is it, can't you see I'm busy". Pinkie Pie stated. "Yes, we can see that, but we want to know what the big deal is". Said Reiner. "What do you mean?" asked Pinkie. "We mean why do you want to get all these instruments, what use could they possibly be in a time like this" Bertholdt questioned. Pinkie looked at them, and sighed. "I know what these things are, I've encounterd them before. "You have"? asked Apple Bloom. Pinkie Pie nodded and continued. "Five years ago, I lived on a farm, but it was a rock farm. One day I saw one of those things, and like all of you I thought it was the cutetest thing I've ever seen, and I just had to take it home, but I found out the hard way what those things we're capable off. It mutilpled and ate all our food, but luckily, my Granny Pie manged to figure out that music drives them out. If you plat certian instruments, then you can lead them away from your home". Pinkie Pie explained. "Why didn't you just tell us"? asked Reiner. "I did! You didn't listen"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Oh um, sorry about that." Reiner chuckled nervously. "Well anyways now you don't have to worry, because we're going to help you"! "Really! Thanks you three"! Pinkie exclaimed. Meanwhile at Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack, Big Mac, and Granny Smith were preparing for the oncoming swarm "No woodline critter is gonna devour the Apple Family crops". Applejack Stated just as the Parasptrites. "Brace yourself, y'all, here they come. The three of them prepared to defend their crops, but the swarm ingorned them, and litterly ate the barn. "Didn't see that one coming" Applejack stated. Back at the golden oak library Twilight arrived to see Spike being swarmed. "Help"! he called out as Twilight noticed what the parasprites we're doing to her books. "They're eating the words"! She exclaimed She then grabbed one and ran out the library once again leaving Spike. "Help". he said this time more meekly. "Twilight ran all the way to Zecora's hut just as she was in the middle of medatating. The noise of Twilight bursting through the door caused Zecora to break her concetration. "Have you gone mad". Zecora asked in annoyance, as Twilight came up to her and showed her the creature. "Zecora, these little guys are devouring Ponyville, and the princess is on her way. Can you help us, please"? Twilight begged. Zecora looked at he creature and gasped. "Oh, monster of so little size. Is that a parasprite before my eyes"? "I don't know is it"? asked Twilight. Zecora walked over to her pot and began to speak. "Tales of crops and harvests consumed. If these creatures are in Ponyville, you're doomed". Twilight gulped and ran back to town, but not before spotting Princess Celestia arrving. "Oh no, here she comes". Twilight made it back to town and saw all the destruction. Seeing this caused her to briefly snap. "Okay, here's the plan. Rainbow Dash, you distract them". Rainbow Dash flew by with a swarm chasing after her. "Good Everyone else, we need to build an exact copy of Ponyville right over there. we've got less then a minute". But as Twilight was about to set her plan into motion, she realized just how crazy it was. "Zecora was right, we're doomed". All of a sudden Twilight heard the sounds of instruments. "Oh no princess's procession is here. It's all over"! But Twilight soon saw that it wasn't the princess, it was Pinkie Pie, playing a bunch of instruments. Seeing those caused Twilight to get angry. "Pinkie? We're in the middle of a crisis here. This is no time for your..." but she stopped when she saw that Pinkie had gotten the swarm's attention. "Nonsense"? "Twilight"! Reiner called out. "Reiner, Bertholdt, Apple Bloom what's going on"? Twilight asked. "Just like I said, we needed to listen to what Pinkie Pie had to say, she knows what to do". Apple Bloom explained. They all followed Pinkie Pie just as Princess Celestia landed. "Look" said Twilight. Twilight, Applejack, Reiner, Rarity, Fluttershy, Apple Bloom, Rainbow Dash, and Bertholdt ran past Pinkie to meet up with the princess who greeted them with a smile. "Twilight Sparkle, my prized pupil". "Hello Princess". Twilight stated "So lovely to see you again, as well as your friends". Princess Celestia stated. "So... how was the trip? Hit much traffic"? Twilight asked nervously, but Celestia was too busy looking at the Parasptrites moving past as one flew up to her. "Ah, what is this? Oh ho ho, these creatures are adorable". "They're not that adorable". Rainbow Dash muttered. The Princess just Smiled before looking at the eight ponies before her. "I'm terribly honored that you and the good citizens of Ponyville have organized a parade in honor of my visit". "Parade"? Twilight asked in confusion before realaztion hit her. "Oh yes the parade". she chuckled nerously. "Unfortunately, that visit is going to have to wait for another time. I'm afraid an emergency has come up in Fillydelphia. Apparently there's been some sort of infestion". Princess Celsestia explained. "An... Infestation"? Reiner asked nerously. "Yes, a swarm of incredibly bothersome creatures has invaded the poor town. I'm sorry Twilight, to have to put you all through so much trouble". "Trouble what trouble"? Twilght chuckled as Celestia got ready to leave, but not before turning to Twilight. "Before I have to go, would you care to give me your latest report on the magic of friendship in person"? "My report"? Twilight asked. "Haven't you learned anything about friendship today"? asked Princess Celestia. "Twilight thought for a bit, before smiling. "Actually, I have. I've learned that sometimes the solution to your problems can come from where you least expect it. It's a good idea to stop and listen to your friends' opinions and perspectives... Even if they don't seem to make sense. Princess Celestia smiled. "I'm so proud of you, Twilight Sparkle, and I'm very impressed with your friends as well. It sounds like you're all learning so much from each other". "Thank you Princess". Said Twilight. Soon Celestia left, and the others went over to Pinkie Pie, and got her to stop. "Hey what happened to the Princess"? she asked. "Emergency in Fillydelphia". Reiner explained. "Some sort of. infestion. Rainbow Dash stated. "Oh no! Have they got parasprites too? Well, have tuba, will travel". Pinkie announced. "I think she can handle it. Twilight pointed out. So you knew what those critters were all along, huh Pinkie Pie? Applejack asked. "Well, duh! Why do you think I was so frantic to get my hooves on all these instruments? I tried to tell you". Pinkie explained. "We know Pinkie, and we're sorry we didn't consider listening, but then Apple Bloom told us that good friends always listen to each other". Twilight apolgized along with the others. "You're a great friend, even if we don't always understand you". Reiner stated. causing Pinkie to blush. "Thanks guys, you're all great friends too, even when I don't understand me". "You saved my reputation with Princess Celestia, and more importantly, you saved ponyville"! Twilight exclaimed, only to return and be greated to a destroyed ponyville. "Or not." Twilight sighed. It took a while, but eventually the town was repaired. Reiner was walking across town when he ran into Apple Bloom playing with a ball. "Good moring Apple Bloom". Reiner greeted "Good moring "Mr. Braun". Apple Bloom greeted back. "Where you going"? she then asked. "Oh I'm just going out for a walk, hey I never thanked you". "For what"? asked Apple Bloom. Well if you hadn't suggested it, Bertholdt and I probally wound't have considered listening to Pinkie Pie. Reiner explained. "Oh heh, thanks Reiner". Apple Bloom blushed. "Anyways I have to get going, you enjoy yourself". Reiner told the filly. "Okay, goodbye". Apple Bloom waved. Reiner kept walking through town, as another memory flashed into his head. "I know I'm going to have to return to that island one day". He thought to himself. Unknown Location. Year 845 (Attack on Titan Plays) The Armored Titan, and the Female Titan, ran across a large field. Both of them in the middle of helping out the Marlyean Army combat an enemy nation, as Theo Magath and General Calvi looked on. "Wonderful, they turned out much better then expected". Calvi pointed out as he stared at the Titan form of Annie Leonhardt, and began to analyize it. "The Female Titan. An all purpose unit. It is capable in every field. In addition to high mobilty and endurance. The Titan's hardening abilties combinded with Leonhardt's martial abilty make for an incredible destructive force. She's also able to summon Pure Titans, though her range is limited". The two men then turned their attention to Reiner. "As you can see, The Armored Titan is one that specializes in the hardening abilty. One slam from that body should be able to destroy both walls and gates. As a Titan who will act as Marley's shield and absorb attacks well, Braun's stoic nature fits the role. Calvi concluded. The ememy nation fired all they had at the two Titans, but one of their cannon's was destroyed by another one. This Titan was smaller then Annie, and Reiner, and had sharp teeth and claws. Calvi looked at it, and began discusing it. "The Jaw Titan is an assualt unit. It's small size makes it the fastest of all. It's powerful jaws, and claws can crush just about anything. We have entrusted it to the quick witted Marcel". Marcel began to use his Titan's namesake to use, and crushed all the cannons and guns. Seeing this, the enemy soldiers began to retreat, only to be stopped, when a bunch of projectiles we're thrown at them, crushing and killing them. Magath, and Calvi looked over at the source of the throw, another Titan, this one covered in fur. "The Beast Titan is the same as ever. It is a bit larger then the others, but that's far from all. It's pitching assualt makes it an unprecedented, awe-inspring weapon. But most impressively, is the power within his blood. Zeke Yeager has given us miracle". Magath and Calvi then turned their attention to the ocean, as another Titan rose out of it. This one was Small like the Jaw Titan, and seemed to be covered in some type of metal armor. "The Cart Titan, with it's unusually high endurance, is well suited for long missions. This allows us to equip it with armaments, expanding the variety of tactics at our disposal. Giving it to Pieck, who has shown strong judgement was surley the right move". Pieck put down a container on the grass, and ran off as fast as she could. Inside the container, was Bertholdt Hoover, who had a small cut on his finger, and was beginning his transformation. With in seconds, there was a huge explosion, and all the surronding area was destroyed by Bertholdt's Titan. "And finally, the Colossal Titan. It is a god of destruction. We hope that Hoover can handle it. I almost feel sorry for those island devils. That thing is going to show up one day, and start killing them". Calvi stated. Yes our new warrior unit is more powerful then it was in the past. Training them since infancy has paid off. Still though, I have doubts about the army's descion. Entrusting the mission to retake the Founding Titan to four children? That doesn't seem sane to me". Magath pointed out. "Oh? But those children just now, have crushed an entire nation before our eyes". Calvi stated. A few weeks after the battle with that nation, Magath was in a room with the warriors discussing with them their next mission. "The Beast Titan, and Cart Titan are to remain here and help defend the mainland aganist enemy nations, and therefore will not participate in this mission. So the plan to retake the Founding Titan will be carried out by the Jaw, Armored, Colossal, and Female Titans. Marcel, Bertholdt, Annie, and Reiner we live this to you". After Magath concluded and left, Porco walked up and pinned Reiner up against the wall. "It doesn't make any sense! You we're at the bottom of the list! Why would they pick you?! What did you do to get chosen"! Porco demaned. Reiner only smirked in response. "Doesn't this mean it was you at the bottom Pock"? Reiner retorted. Porco flew into a rage and went to swing at Reiner. "You Little"! But he was Stopped by Marcel. "Porco! Are you disobeying the army's orders". he asked before leading his brother away. "Sorry Reiner". Marcel apologized. The next the four warriors we're paraded throught the interment zone, as the eldians inside cheered for them. Reiner looekd around and spotted his mother in the crowed. He looked around a spotted a man leaving the parade, and decieded to follow him. Reiner found the man inside a kitchen, and began to speak to him. "Dad"? The man turned his head a little as Reiner continued. "I'm right aren't I. Mom worked in the barracks before I was born. That was when you met her, Karina Braun. I saw your face, and thought it might be you". When Reiner's father didn't answer Reiner continued by showing the man his armband. "Look. Mom and I have become honorary Marleyans. We're able to walk freely outside the wall if we ask permission. You and Mom, can now lived together". Reiner concluded. That statment caused the man to snap, as he turned to face his son. "Are you kidding me! That woman told you to come here didn't she?! So she could get revenge on me! Damnit, and she force her kid to become a warrior for all that? If they look into your orignis, my family is done for! You're trying to get me hanged aren't you! Well I'm going to run as hard as I can away from you. You and you're mother, you eldian devils"! With that the man walked into another room, and slammed the door shut. "Wait. Reiner tried to call out, before hearing the ships horn. "Oh, right. It's time to go". Reiner walked out and found his mother who took him aside. "Reiner, are you okay"? she asked in concern, but Reiner just looked her causing her to give him a reassuring smile. "I know you'll be able to complete your mission. And I'm sure your father is praying for your sucess too". She told her son, causing him to smile back With that, Reiner got on the boat with the others. As it started to leave, everyone on the doc began to cheer for them. "Our Chosen Eldian Warriors! Save Us From Those Island Devils! The crowed cheered. "That's right, It doesn't matter if I don't have a father. I'm a chosen warrior entrusted with the Armored Titan. I'll save everyone from the island devils, and become a hero to the world. Eventually the boat made it to the island, and the warriors got off with Magath who began to explain to them what they had to do. " This is the bordered of Paradis, Move south once the sun sets. From there, just follow the plan. The Marleyan army will anchor here at the full moon. Remember that as you carry out the plan to retake the Founding Titan". Magath told them "Yes sir"! they all said. "Now, Carry out your mission. Come back with the Founding Titan. All of you". Magath comammed That night, the four of them set off on their journey. They trotted on their horses for hours before stopping to set up camp in a field. "I guess we can't cover much ground at night huh". Marcel Chuckled. "Don't worry about it. It was overcast". Reiner reassured him. "I'm just glad we didn't run into any Titans, but is the king of the walls really not going to use the Founding Titan, even if the walls are destroyed. Asked Bertholdt. "Why would you bring that up now Berthodt? Marley's research is realible". Reiner stated. "Yes, there's no going back now. Tommorow, we're going to that wall, and". Marcel hesatatied to finish his statment, something Reiner took notice off. "What's wrong? Wait. Don't tell me you're having second thougts about killing those island devils! Have you forgotten what they've done to Marley, and us?! They are descendants of devils who trampled over the world and turned into a living hell! The world still lives in fear of them! We're here to represent that world. Chosen warriors meant to judge them for their actions". Reiner stated. Marcel just sat quitely for a moment before speaking. "Sorry Reiner". he muttered. "Huh"? Reiner asked in confusion as Marcel continued "You see... You weren't supposed to be chosen as a warrior in the first place.... But.... I influenced the army's opinion by putting you on a pedestal, and making my little brother look bad. I just, wanted to protect Porco from this hell we have to go through with the Power of the Titans. Please forgive me Reiner. Marcel begged. This only confused Reiner more. "Huh? Why are you apologizng"? Reiner asked. All of a sudden, the ground began to shake, as something rose up. Marcel quickly realizng what it was. "A Titan! Run"! The Titan spotted Reiner, and was just about to grab him when Marcel pushed him out of the way, and was caught instead. Reiner, Annie, and Bertholdt could do nothing but run, as Marcel was eaten alive by the Titan, all the while Reiner remebered back to his vow he made before the trip to the island "I'm a chosen warrior. Entrusted with the Armored Titan. "I'm gonna punish the island devils, and become the hero who saves everyone. With Marcel gone, Annie wants to abandon the mission, but Reiner is detirment to see it through, and will stop at nothing to prove that he is a warrior. Next Episode. The Door of Hope. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Fluttershy Twilight Sparkle Spike Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Apple Bloom Daisy Minnuette Derpy Hooves Twinkleshine Golden Harvest Berry Punch Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Shoeshine Goldengrape Amethyst Star Pinkie Pie Mr. Cake Mrs. Cake Rarity Berthodt Hoover/Colossal Titan Rainbow Dash Applejack Princess Celestia Igneous Rock Pie (Flashback) Cloudy Quartz (Flashback) Maud Pie (Flashback) Limestone Pie (Flashback) Marble Pie (Flashback) Big Macintosh Granny Smith Zecora Annie Leonhardt/Female Titan (Flashback) Theo Magath (Flashback) Calvi (Flashback) Marcel Galliard/Jaw Titan (Flashback) Zeke Yeager/Beast Titan (Flashback) Pieck Finger/Cart Titan (Flashback) Porco Galliard (Flashback) Karina Braun (Flashback) Reiner's Father (Flashback) Ymir (Flashback) Episode 16: The Door of Hope: Gala arc Part 9 (Vc-pf2013 Plays) Reiner ran as fast as he could. He kept running for God knows how long, his legs we're getting tired, and he was loseing his breath. Evenutally he stopped next to a single tree and began to process what had just happened. "Annie, Bertholdt"...... Marcel". Reiner remembered back to what Marcel did earlier. He got eaten by a Titan, just to protect me. Here? Is this where I die? Did everyone get eaten because of me? What the hell happened? My mind is blank. What should I do"? Reiner began to panic, thinking it was over for him, and he was about to die next, he could do nothing but scream in anquish until someone came up to him and kicked him in the stomach, causing Reiner to look up and see Annie standing over him, with Bertholdt a few feet behind her. "Not bad, that's the first time you've ever beaten me in a foot race". Annie complemented before looking up. "If we had stayed, we could have captured that Titan that ate Marcel, and we would have still had the Jaw Titan. But you two ran away like cowards, and I didn't know what to do either, so I followed after you. Goddamnit! He's not coming back now". She Continued Reiner looked at her in confusion. "But there weren't supposed to be any Titans yet. Magath said they'd be closer to the wall". Reiner stated. "Not all of them". Bertholdt mentioned. Reiner and Annie turned to face him as Bertholdt continued. "It's not like every Titan is going to act exactly according to plan. Don't you remember learning that". He asked Reiner. Annie sighed, turned around, and starting walking away. "Enough. Let's go back. She told them", confusing Reiner. "Huh"?. he asked, whiched caused Annie to slightly turn and look at him. "We'll find the Jaw Titan, and go back home. The Titan that devoured Marcel has most likley turned back into a human by now, and is somewhere wondering on the island. Plus It's not like we can continue the mission to retake the Founding Titan without Marcel's leadership. Face it Reiner, the plan is a failure. Besides, this place isn't safe either, a Titan could show up at any moment". With that, Annie began walking away, with Bertholdt following close behind her, leaving Reiner alone to process what Annie had just said. All of a sudden, his mind flashed back to what his mother had said before they left "I know you'll be able to complete your mission. And I'm sure your father is praying for your sucess too". Remembering the promise he made to his mother Reiner called out to his friends. "Wait"! Annie and Bertholdt turned around to look at him. "No. We can't go back. We'll contiune the plan". Reiner told them. Berthlodt and Annie paused for a moment, before the girl spoke up. "True. You can't go back like this". she stated, confusing Reiner. "If you go back to Marley now, they'll strip you of the Armored Titan for this disgrace. The next warrior will eat you. Not that it makes any differance to me". Annie told Reiner, who just stared at her before countering. "And are you sure that only I'll lose my Titan"? he asked. "Hm"? asked Annie. Are they only going to hold me responsible for the three of us running away? Are you two compltely certain that you'll escape punishment"? He asked. Annie and Bertholdt just stared at Reiner as he continued. "Besides going after the Jaw Titan is a bad idea. What if the person who obtained the power uses it to escape from us"? "How could someone learn to use a Titan's power that fast". asked Bertholdt. "Are you serious?! Bertholdt, you mastered how to use the Colossal Titan in no time! Anyway if screw up chasing after the Jaw Titan and use up our Titan powers here, well just end up getting eaten! And if we show up at the boat with nothing but this fiasco, we'll be done for anway"! Reiner explained When niether of his friends responed, Reiner continued. "If we ever want to go back to our hometown, we need results. We need the Founding Titan. We can't go back without it". After a few moments, Annie finally spoke. "You know, if you had been a hundredth that composed a minute a go, we wouldn't have lost the Jaw Titan or Marcel. So you plan to put us in danger, just to save your own skin"? "I don't know, I just". Reiner began before Annie kicked him in the face super hard, shocking Bertholdt. "Annie"?! he yelled out in shock as the girl began to rant while kicking Reiner to the ground. "Then you explain the Magath! SAY IT WAS ALL MY FAULT! Honorary Marleyan! Chosen Warrior! Who gives a damn! Marley, Eldia, they can all go to hell! They're all liars! Every single one of them! They only ever think about themselves! And you know what? I'm the same. I need to get home alive! You were supossed to die a minute ago right? Well if you're feeling so ashamed about it, then die right now! TAKE THE BLAME AND DIE"! Annie screamed as she kicked Reiner until his face was battered and bloddy. Bertholdt all the while just stood there silently, tears streaming down his face as he had watched his friends fight. Once she was done beating Reiner, Annie turned and began to walk away, only for Reiner to stand up, and lunge at her, bringing Annie to the ground and putting her in a chokehold. "Reiner's Dead. If you need Marcel........ Then I'll become Marcel". Reiner stated as Bertholdt just watched on. "Please. Just stop". He begged the two of them, as Reiner continued. "This, is the only way we can go home". Reiner.... We get it already". Bertholdt said. "Let's all get back to our hometown". Reiner finished as he got off of Annie who slowly stood up. "So, are we going to complete our mission"? he asked her. Annie simply nodded her head. "Stand back". she told them. Reiner and Bertholdt did as she ordered. After moving back Annie bit onto her finger and transformed into the Female Titan. (進撃st-hrn-gt-pf20130629巨人 Plays) Once in her Titan form, Annie grabbed Reiner and Bertholdt, and proceeded to place them on her shoulders. She then began running, letting out an extremeley loud scream in the process. That scream had manged to grab the attention of hundreds of pure Titans who began to pursue the Female Titan who kept running. Annie kept running for god knows how long, and it was begining to have a toll on her. "Reiner! She's running out of stamina"! Bertholdt stated. "I know"! Reiner replied as he looked back and saw the Titans getting closer. Damnit they're about to catch up. Are we still not to the Wall yet? The plan was for the Female Titan, and Jaw Titan to switch out durning the transport, but with Marcel gone Annie's doing it all on her own. She must have hit her breaking point a while ago, but the plan can't succeed if we wear down the Armored Titan". Reiner began to ponder what they should do, when Bertholdt noticed something in the distance. "I see It! The Wall"! he pointed ahead of them. Sure enough, there in the distance was Wall Maria. "Annie let's switch out now"! Reiner told her. So Annie left her titan form, and Reiner transformed into the Armored Titan and ran the rest of the way to the wall. Once there, he placed Bertholdt down infront of the closed gate. There are more Titans then we expected. We've got to hurry. We're counting on you Bertholdt". Reiner thought He then took Annie, and moved far away from the area. Bertholdt in the meantime stared up in wonder at the height of the wall, and began to ponder his next move. "So this is Wall Maria. It's huge, and we have to destroy it. Will I really be able to do it"? he wondered. Reiner meanwhile began to go through the plan in his head. Well destroy Wall Maria, and then make use of the chaos caused by the invading Titans to slip in with the population. After that, will track down the movements of Fritz. The king of the walls..... Then figure out a way to get the Founding Titan. It's all riding on wheather or not we can destroy the wall. While Reiner was in his thoughts. Bertholdt had transformed into his Titan. "We're counting on you Bertholdt". (Counterattack Mankind part 2 Plays) The Colossal Titan slowly rose up, and peered over the Wall, looking down into the town, and noticing tons of people staring up at him. Including three young children, who seemed a little younger then Him, Annie, and Reiner. The Colossal Titan then brought his massive leg back, and kicked a massive whole into the wall, sucessfully breaching it as Reiner looked on from his Titan. He did it. Bertholdt (Vogel Im Kafig plays) All of a sudden, the Titans that had been chasing them caught up and grabbed the Armored Titan, and tried to go for Annie as well. Reiner manged to break lose before noticing that one was heading for the downed Colossal Titan. Oh no! A Titan's heading for Bertholdt! Reiner ran towards Bertholdt, who turned around and noticed the Titan near walking towards him. However, the Titan ignored Bertholdt and walked into the hole he made just as Reiner grabbed Bertholdt and climbed to the top of the Wall, and placed Bertholdt and an unconscious Annie down on it as he began to remember why he became a warrior. "I wanted to become a warrior, because I thought it would grant my mother's wish to live with my father". Reiner began to climb down the wall and into the town. "But... I never had a father who felt the same way. My mother was always dreaming of something that would never come true". Reiner made his way through the town. Watching as countless civilians got eaten by Titans. Eventaully, he made his way to the inner gate, and began to charge towards it. "I was never supposed to become a warrior, and I wasn't supposed to surivive past today". Reiner then remembered how Marcel apologized to him. "Please forgive me Reiner" "Why did he apolgize? Why would he save someone like me"? Reiner pondered this for a moment before deciding it didn't matter. "No. I don't this to end here. I haven't changed anything yet". The Armored Titan bursted through the inner gate, destroying it, and making it possible for the Titans to invade Wall Maria. Afterwards, Reiner went back into the town and fetched Bertholdt and Annie, who was still unconscious, and they made their way into the next wall, with the other refugees. Currently Publicly Available Information About the Walls. Humanity lives surrounded by three walls. The outermost wall is Wall Maria, the second is Wall Rose, and the centermost wall is Wall Sina. The Walls are separated from one another in roughly equal intervals. There is a distance of about 100 kilometers between Maria and Rose, and there are about 130 kilometers between Rose and Sina. From Sina, it's about another 250 kilometers to the center of the interior. Annie awoke to find herself laying on a blanket in what looked like some kind of shelter. She turned to see Reiner and Bertholdt next to her. "Where are we"? she asked. "Inside Wall Rose". Bertholdt replied before looking down in shame. "Annie, Bertholdt, I'm sorry" he apologized. He then remembered his late friend as he pulled to two of them into an embrace. "Marcel. I promise to become a true warrior". Sometime Later, Reiner, Annie, and Bertholdt found themselves talking to a man who was the sole survivor of the Titan attack on his town. "My village was located in the mountains southeast of Wall Maria. Unlike the thriving riverside towns, we didn't recive word about the breach until later. Infact, the Titans got to us first. It was around dawn. The livestock were getting extremley restless. I heard these strange rumbling sounds getting closer and closer. That was when I realized they we're the sounds of footsteps. So I went and opened my window". A flashback shows the man looking out his window, and a Titan pearing inside. "I don't really remember what happened afterwards, but somehow I manged to escape on my horse. Leaving three kids behind, who we're just about your age". the man finished. A few days later, the man was found dead. Hanging from a tree as other people looked at his corpse. "Wasn't he the only survivor from that villiage"? someone asked. "What village"? asked another person. "Oh I forgot the name of it. That tiny setllement right? The one that's not even on the maps"? the first person replied. "We should cut him down". Someone else stated. Two Years Later, Reiner, Annie, and Bertholdt found themselves working in a garden, and had just figured out a massive secret about the king. "Oh, so the king is just a figurehead"? asked Annie. "Not only the old man, it's apparently an entirely different family. They're all puppets without any shred of authority. But they're probably not Subjects of Ymir. The people ruling from the center of the walls are most likley a diffrent race of Eldians who sucked up to Fritz a hundred years ago. Because there was no need for the Power of the Founding Titan, So he gave them power in exchange for their silence and loyalty"? Reiner Question. "Then we just need to get inside that family. They must have a connection to the true king of the walls". Bertholdt stated. "How do we do that? get them to hire us as servants or something? Or do you want me to get close to one of the men in the family and marry into it"? asked Annie. "No you can't do that". Bertholdt exclaimed. "You're right I can't. They're able to stay in a seat of power because they're not subjects of Ymir. they'd never risk infecting their family tree with tainted blood. And ever since the Wall was breched, they haven't hired new servants out of concern about invaders. Plus. I don't have the kind of charm it takes to seduce a man". Annie stated. "That's not true"! Bertholdt yelled, confusing Annie. "Um..... Thanks"? Reiner, having heard enough then spoke up. "That means. We only have one option. Become soldiers and get close to the inteior military police". Annie, and Bertholdt looked at Reiner for a bit. "I know you don't want to hear this from me. But it's taken us two years to learn this much". Annie stated. "And we've spent that time uprooting trees. You're the only one who's able to enter and exit the royal captial". Reiner replied. "We only have ten years left. You're saying you want us to spend those ten years playing soldier"? asked Annie It's been two years since the wall was breached, but the king of the walls never made a move. If the Tybur family's imformation is correct, then the king is bound by some kind of vow to renounce war". Reiner pointed out. "If that's the case then we should just stop wasting time and put an end to this". Annie said "Oh, so you want to destroy Wall Rose, and Wall Sina too"? asked Reiner. Annie and Bertholdt looked at him in shock as he continued. "Yes doing that might cause the Founding Titan to show themselves, but you realize that no matter how defeated they may be, one scream from them can turn everything around right? And then we precious warriors will die with the rest of the world, our mission is incomplete. The fate of humanity is riding on us". Reiner stated as he had a vision of the countless Colossus Titans inside the walls being awoken and destroying their hometown. "So we can only march slowly forward. I've started to realize it finally. That is what we're here for". Reiner concluded. Later, Reiner found himself in the 104th cadet corps being interrogated by the instructor. "TELL ME WHY YOU CAME HERE"! The instructor demaneded. "I came to save humanity"! Reiner told him firmly. He then had a flash of memmories flooding to him. Training with the cadet corps. Meeting Eren Yeager, and Armin Arlert. The Battle of Trost. Discovering that Eren was a Titan. Killing Marco. Joining the Survey Corps. Fighting the Female Titan with Jean, and Armin. Revealing his, and Berthodlt's identittes to Eren. Escaping to Wall Maria. Getting sucked into the vortex. Meeting Fluttershy. Rarity. Sweetie Belle. Apple Bloom. Applejack. Rainbow Dash. Pinkie Pie. And Twilight Sparkle. "I'm a chosen warrior. Entrusted with the Armored Titan. I'm gonna punish the island devils, and become the hero who saves everyone". Preview The time to clean up winter, and get ready for spring has arrived, however Twilight can't seem to find any activty to help out with, and with Ponyville's track record of always being late for spring, things don't look good. Next Episode. Winter Wrap Up. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Reiner Braun/Armored Titan (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt/Female Titan (Flashback) Bertholdt Hoover/Colossal Titan (Flashback) Karina Braun (Flashback) Marcel Galliard (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Eren Yeager/Attack Titan (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Dina Fritz (Flashback) Keith Shadis (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Hanna Diamant (Flashback) Franz Kefka (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Fluttershy (Flashback) Rarity (Flashback) Sweetie Belle (Flashback) Apple Bloom (Flashback) Applejack (Flashback) Rainbow Dash (Flashback) Pinkie Pie (Flashback) Twilight Sparkle (Flashback) Episode 17: Winter Wrap Up: Gala arc Part 10Night at the Golden Oak Library, Twilight Sparkle, and Spike were both asleep in their beds, when Twilight's eyes shot open, and she let out an excited gasp as she remembered what today was. "Spike, wake up. Wake up, wake up, it's Winter Wrap Up day"! She exclaimed with glee as she nuzzled the young dragon's head who looked up in confusion. "Huh? mommy"? "Winter Wrap Up day" Twilight repeated. "You're not mommy". Spike grumbled as he tried to go back to sleep. Twilight however rushed downstairs and began to put on her boots and jacket. "Spike, the first day of spring is tomorrow, so everypony in Ponyville needs to clean up winter. Now help me get ready". "Clean up winter? Who cleans up winter? Don't they just use magic to change the seasons like they do in Canterlot"? Spike asked. "No Spike, Ponyville was started by Earth ponies, so for hundreds of years they've never used magic to clean up winter. It's traditional". "It's silly". Spike grumbled as he crawled back under the covers of his bed. "No magic..... Fuh". Twilight paid no attention to him and kept trying to get ready. She got her jacket on, and then went and put on her scarf. Once she got that on, she pulled out a checklist. "Okay, let's see: scarf, check; saddle, check; boots, check; Spike refusing to get up and going back to sleep, check. It's a good thing I'm so organize". Twilight smiled, as she opened the door to her house. "I'm ready, bright and early"! she declared, only to realize that it was still dark out, and the sun hadn't even started to rise yet. "Oh... maybe a little too early". she smiled sheepishly. Elsewhere at their house, Reiner Braun was up as well, however unlike Twilight, he wasn't exicted for Winter Wrap Up. He couldn't be, because he had something else on his mind. In the interior part of the Walls, Annie Leonhardt was trailing behind a mysterious man. Something about him seemed off, and she was determainted to find out more about him. "That man in the black coat. There's something strange about him, something different from the other goverment officials. If I can discover where he's going, then maybe I can get to the King of the Walls". She thought. Annie followed the man until he rounded a bend, however when Annie got there she saw that the man was gone. "What"? she asked in confusion, when all of a sudden she felt a very tight grip on her shoulder. "Hey there little lady". The man said. "So, you decided to follow an old geezer like me eh? Well I must say, you've got quite an interesting taste in men". Annie just stood still for a moment, not knowing what to do. How did this guy know she was following him. Deciding it was best not to ask him that, she instead came up with a lie. "I was born in an inn. My Mother worked as she raised me alone, but she told me stories about my father. A man she only met once, and once I saw you, I knew you were him at first sight". Annie said. "Now ain't that just sweet". the man said sarcasticly. "Well if you want a hug from daddy then you should be a good girl and put your hands up". He told her. Annie knew right then and there that he didn't fall for her fib. "So, you don't believe it then do you"? she asked him. "Not a chance in hell. This is the one type of joke I hate the most". The man said. Annie just sighed in defeat. "I can't believe you daddy". she muttered. Then Annie tried to kick the man, but he dodged her attack. However it did give her enough time to run past him as he called after her. "Hey come on now! You've already hit that rebellious stage in your life eh". The man chased Annie, but gave up after seeing she went down into the sewerers. "Whatever. I don't need a daugther who tries to kick her old man to death anyways". The man said as he walked away, while Annie made her way through the seweres, disgusted by the smell. The next morning back at the barracks Thomas Wagner, Connie Springer, and Marco Bodt were standing over a sleeping Bertholdt Hoover. "He's doing it again." Connie pointed out. Refering to the fact that Bertholdt was in one of his strange positions again. "So what do you think his legs mean today, snow? asked Thomas. "No, his torso is saying that will have clear skies". Marco replied. "You're all wrong, his body means it'll hail". Reiner stated as he walked up to the three of them. "Get going, or you're going to be late for morning call". he told them, before turning to Bertholdt."Come on Bertholdt, wake up". Later that day, the trainess we're all eating breakfest. One of them, Eren Yeager, had a very angry look on his face, something Reiner noticed and pointed out. "You seem more bloodthristy then usual today Eren". That was when another trainee, Jean Kirstien spoke up. "It's because he failed hard at training yestarday. You should have seen it, such a sad sight. You got all tangled up in the wires that I thought they we're going to strangle you". Jean said to Eren. The boy, Eren Yeager sat at his seat, glaring at Jean for a while, before speaking up. "Not as sad as the sight of you practicing how to turn tail and run away from a Titan you horse faced coward". He retorted. Jean just shrugged and continued to Mock Eren. "Right, and you'd just charge headfirst into a battle, and get killed in a web of your wires. I'm sure the Titans will find that hilarious. Face it Eren, that's your life, and you know it". That statement set Eren off, and he lunged at Jean, who got up as well. Reiner seeing this threw himself between the two of them, and held them back. "How many times to I have to tell you two to cut it out"?! Reiner asked in annoyance as another soldier named Floch Forster shouted at them as well. "Shut up you two, It's too damn early for this". Floch said while the others watched the struggle. Later that night, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Annie all sat away from the barracks discussing what they should do next. "You know, while you two got to sleep like babies after a day of fooling around with your new friends, I was crawling around through the captial's sewers". Annie told them. She then started to talk about the guy she encournterd. "The man in black was different from the others. He's the real deal. He almost caught me..... I bet he must've seen my face. So if I join the interior MPs and he's there, I'll be done for". "So that's it". Reiner stated cold-heartedly. "Let's go back to Marley, and just give them the information we've already gotten. It's already been five years since we destroyed Wall Maria, I'm sure they'll be happy to just hear something". Annie said. "Are you really so sure about that"? Reiner asked. When Annie didn't answer Reiner continued. "I'm pretty sure they'll be disappointed if these five years of results are all we bring them". Then......... What do we do"? asked Annie. Reiner thought for a moment, before standing. "We'll destroy Wall Rose. Whether or not the King really has made a vow to renounce all war this is the only way to smoke out the Founding Titan. The day our training corps class is in Trost is the same day the Survey Corps will be going on another scouting mission beyond the walls. If we can create as much chaos as possible, even the training corps will be forced into battle. We can disappear then. Even if they never find our bodies, no one will suspect that we're still alive. We can even slip in with the crowd of refugees that will be flooding into Wall Sina. Or depending on the situation, we can continue being soldiers. If it looks like we're going to be in the top ten, then we can wait to graduate and become MPs in the interior. What I'm trying to say, is that we'll move as the King of the walls moves and put ourselves in the best position to take action". He told them. Annie, and Bertholdt looked at him for a few minutes. "Alot of your friends will die, maybe even all of them". Annie told Reiner, who knelt down to her eye level. "I keep telling you, they're not my friends. They're eldian devils who are different from us. However, that doesn't mean we shouldn't try to gain their trust. If anything, your attitude of isolating yourself is way more flagrantly". Reiner stated. "I'm gonna puke. Could you please, get your face away from mine"? Annie asked uninterested. Reiner did as Annie asked, and stood up. "You must be tired, I always feel bad for putting this much burden on your shoulders. So let's leave at that for today". Reiner said as he, Annie, and Bertholdt began walking back to the barracks. "I keep having the same dream. It's about the old man from that villiage. I wonder why he told us that story, before he put the noose around his neck" Bertholdt stated. Reiner only stared back at him Back in Equestria Reiner watched as the sun began to rise as Reiner looked out the window. "Time to wrap up winter I guess" Twilight rushed out of her house smiling with glee, while Spike lie on her back, still to tired to do anything. As they moved through town, Twilight took noticed of the different colored vest the ponies were wearing. Each of them represented a different job for Winter Wrap Up. "Those must be the team vests Rarity designed. Blue for the weather team, green for the plant team, and tan for the animal team. I wonder which team vest I'll be wearing". Twilight thought. Spike also saw them, and instantly knew which one he wanted to wear. "I'll take a blue vest, same color as my blankie, which I think I hear calling my name. "Spike! Spike! Come to bed!" Ugh, it's too early". He stated. Twilight just rolled her eyes as she galloped to town square, where there was a crowd of ponies already. Twilight made her way through the crowd, and saw Reiner standing near the front. "Hi Reiner". Twilight smiled. "Good morning Twilight". Reiner replied with a small smile of his own. The two of them stood around for a bit when Mayor Mare came up to adress the ponies. "Thank you, everypony, for being here bright and early. We need every single pony's help to wrap up winter, and bring in spring". Everypony with the exception of Reiner, cheered as the Mayor continued. "Now, all of you have your vests, and have been assigned to your teams, so let's do even better than last year, and have the quickest Winter Wrap Up ever"! Twilight had a huge smile on her face as the Mayor spoke. "Oh, this is so exciting". "All right everypony, find your team leader, and let's get galloping"! The Mayor concluded. Once Mayor Mare was done with her speech each pony went in a different direction, while Twilight looked around, wondering where she should go. "Oh gosh, where should I go? I'm not sure where I fit in. What exactly does everypony do"? she asked. Rainbow Dash then walked over and started singing. Three months of winter coolness And awesome holidays. She was then joined by Pinkie Pie. We've kept our hoofsies warm at home Time off from work to play. Followed By Applejack But the food we've stored is runnin' out And we can't grow in this cold. Then Rarity And even though I love my boots This fashion's getting old. Now Twilight started singing. The time has come to welcome spring And all things warm and green But it's also time to say goodbye It's winter we must clean How can I help? I'm new, you see What does everypony do? How do I fit in without magic? I haven't got a clue! Reiner joined in We'll work together, and get through this. I Know you're confused, but you don't have to worry, because I'll never leave your side. The whole town then joined the song. Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Applejack] Cause tommorow spring. [Rainbow Dash] Is here. [Chior] Cause tommorow spring is here. [Rainbow Dash] Bringing home the southern birds A Pegasus' job begins And clearing all the gloomy skies To let the sunshine in We move the clouds And we melt the white snow. [Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie] When the sun comes up Its warmth and beauty will glow! [Chior] Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! [Rarity] Little critters hibernate Under the snow and ice. [Fluttershy] We wake up all their sleepy heads So quietly and nice". [Bertholdt Hoover] We help them gather up their food Fix their homes below. [Fluttershy] We welcome back the southern birds. [Rarity, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt] So their families can grow! [Chior] Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Rarity] Winter, Winter! [Chior] Let's finish our holiday cheer Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Rarity] Winter, Winter! [Chior] Cause tomorrow spring is here Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Rarity] Winter, Winter! [Chior] Cause tomorrow spring is here 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! [Applejack] No easy task to clear the ground Plant our tiny seeds With proper care and sunshine Everyone it feeds Apples, carrots, celery stalks Colorful flowers too We must work so very hard. [Applejack, Cherry Berry, and Golden Harvest] It's just so much to do! [Chior] Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Pinkie Pie] Cause tomorrow spring is here. [Chior] Cause tomorrow spring is here! [Twilight] Now that I know what they all do I have to find my place And help with all of my heart Tough task ahead I face How will I do without my magic Help the Earth pony way I wanna belong so I must Do my best today, Do my best today! [Chior] Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Reiner Braun] Cause tomorrow spring is here 'Cause tomorrow spring is here 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! After song was over, everypony went off to their respective teams. All except for Twilight, who didn't know where to go, and Reiner, who wanted to remain by her side. "Everypony belongs to a team. What should I do? Where should I go"? Twilight asked. "Don't worry Twi, you'll figure out something, and I'll stay with you". Reiner reassured her. Twilight looked up at the unicorn stalion and gave him a small smile. "Thank you Reiner, but what about Bertholdt". Twilight asked. "Oh he decided to help Fluttershy, and the animal team today, between you and me, I think Bertholdt has a little thing for Fluttershy". Reiner told Twilight making her giggle. Twilight thought about what she and Reiner could do when she looked up and saw Rainbow Dash, and the weather ponies about to go and move the clouds. "Rainbow Dash". Twilight called causing the pegagus to look down. "Oh, hey Twilight, Reiner". "What are you doing"? asked Twilight. "Sending off one of my flight crews to retrieve the birds that have flown south for the winter". Rainbow Dash replied. "Can Reiner, and I help". Twilight asked hopefully, causing Dash, and Reiner to look at her. "Uh Twilight". Reiner started to say, but didn't have to finish because Twilight knew what he was referring too. "Right, no wings". "Sorry you two". Rainbow Dash apologized as she flew off with her team. Twilight sighed. "Great, now what am I supposed to do"? she asked. "I don't know about you, but I'm gonna be nappin". Spike stated as he closed his eyes and went to sleep. "Come on Spike, this is serious business. Winter needs to be wrapped up, and I'm determined to do my part. Somehow". Twilight replied. "I Know, why don't we go see what Rarity's doing, and ask if she needs any assastiance". Reiner said. "Great Idea". Twilight exclaimed as she gave Reiner a hug. The three of them headed over to where Rarity was, and found her working on several birds nest. "Rarity, please tell us there's something, anything Reiner, and I can do to help". Twilight pratictly begged. Reiner put his hooves on Twilight's shoulders, telling her to remain calm, before looking at Rarity. "Rarity, would you like some help"? he asked. Rarity thought for a bit before nodding. "Well, how would you like to help create Ponyville's finest birds' nests"? she asked. "Birds nests"? Reiner asked in confusion. "Why yes. When the weather team guides the birds back north for the spring, they'll need a place to live and lay their eggs". Rarity told them, as she showed Twilight, and Reiner the one she had just finished. "Wow, Rarity, that one's really beautiful". Twilight complented. "Oh why, thank you most sincerely. Would you like to try your hoof at a nest"? Rarity asked. "Oh yes please"! Twilight exclaimed. "How about you Mr. Braun". Rarity asked. Reiner thought for a moment. "Sure". he replied. Rarity smiled and gave each of them supplies to get them started. Once both Twilight, and Reiner had what they needed Rarity began to instruct them on what to do. "Okay. Now... uh, take some of that straw and hay over there, and a little bit of branch. Now, weave them through there, yes". Twilight and Reiner did what Rarity asked, both pretty well. "Uh, take some ribbon". she told them. Both Reiner, and Twilight did what they we're told, however while Reiner was doing pretty well, Twilight was having some trouble, which Rarity took notice of. "oh uh, n... not there, oooh, yes, uh, tuck it in over there, uh but be careful not to... I don't know I guess that would do... oh dear". Reiner, and Twilight both finshed around the same time, and while Reiner's was almost identical to the one Rarity made, Twilight's wasn't so much. "Wow, Reiner your's looks just like Rarity's". Twilight complemented, she then looked at her's, and saw that it did not match the other two. "Oh". She sighed in disappointment. "That house needs to be condemmed". Spike insaulted upsetting Twilight a littile. Rarity tried to reassure Twilight that it wasn't that bad. "Oh, Spa-ha-hike, it's not so bad, ah, maybe birds can use it as a..." Rarity couldn't find the right word to finish her sentance, "An outhouse"? Spike suggested. "Spike It's just fine. It's just a little rough around the edges". Rarity stated as she walked over to Twilight in order to assiast her. "Let me lend you a hoof. Let's just untie this ribbon, and let me take out these sticks here, we'll shave this..." However soon Rarity was to distracted to even notice Twilight, who once again sighed. "I think we lost her". Spike stated. "Nevermind, lets go see if Pinkie Pie needs, any help". Reiner said. "Great idea". Twilight stated. The three friends walked through town, eventually making it to one of the lakes. There, they say Pinkie Pie happily ice skating on the lake in order to making it eaiser for the it to be melted. The pink earth pony smiled when she noticed Twilight, Spike, and Reiner coming over the hill, and happily called out to them. "Hellooooooo, Twilight, Spike, Reiner. Wheeeeeeee"! Twilight looked on in amazment. She was absoultey astonished by Pinkie Pie's ice skating skills. "Wow, Pinkie Pie, you're quite the skater. Probably the best skater I've ever seen". Twilight complemented. "Thanks Twilight, I've been doing this since I was an itty-bitty little-wittle Twinkie-Pinkie. Just comes natural. Which is probably why they designated me the lake scorer. I cut lines in the lakes with my skates. That way, when the rest of the weather team comes here to break the ice, it'll be easy as pie". Pinkie Pie explained. Twilight was fascinated by that. "How clever. When the thick ice begins to melt, it'll break along the lines, and since Pinkie seems to be a natrual ice skater I have no doubt she'll be able to get the job done. Thing is though, this isn't the only lake in Ponyville, and sure Pinkie Pie could defenitly do one, but I doubt she could get all of them done in time. I wonder". Twilgiht was taken out of her thoughts when Pinkie Pie skated over to her. "You know Twilight, there a qutie a few lakes here, so I was wondering if maybe you'd like to help me"? Pinkie Pie asked. Twilight's eyes lit up in excitment. "Would I? Of course"! She exclaimed. "Great"! Said Pinkie as she tossed over some skates to Twilight. Pinkie Pie then turned to Reiner. "You want some skates too Mr. Braun"? she asked inoccently. "No thank you, I think I'll sit this one out". Reiner said giving Pinkie Pie a small smile. Pinkie Pie smiled back, and went back to her skating. "YAAAAAY"! The pink earth pony cheered excitedly, as Twilight finshed putting on her skates, and was about to step onto the ice. However, once she did she had trouble keeping her balance. "Uh... maybe on second thought". Twilight considered giving up right then and there, as she was worried about getting injured, or worse falling through the ice, and drowning. Spike however walked up to Twilight with a frown on his face. "What are you talking about? You said you wanted to be helpful". Spike reminded Twilight just as Pinkie Pie skated by them again. "YIPPIEE"! "Now get out"!. Spike exclaimed as he pushed Twilight onto the ice. But just as Twilight feared, she had trouble keeping her balance on the slippery ice, and began slipping and sliding. "Twilight, steer! Steer"! Pinkie Pie called out. Twilight tried to do what Pinkie Pie said, but she couldn't, and instead headed stright for the pink pony. "Oh boy"! Pinkie exclaimed as she tried to get out of they way, but she couldn't, and Twilight crashed into her, and then both of them crashed into Spike, before finally crashing back onto the snow bank. Reiner, having seen to whole thing came over to see if they we're alright. "Ha ha, you are a natural, Twilight. A natural disaster". Spike laughed, causing Reiner to frown at the purple dragon. "Twilight, you did a great job your first time around. I'm sure my first time was just as wobbly and bobbly and crasheriffic as yours". Pinkie Pie stated, trying to make Twilight feel better. "Really"? Twilight asked. "No". Pinkie sighed, "But did I make you feel better? she asked. "Mm-hmm, yeah, I guess". Twilight responded. Pinkie Pie smiled at Twilight. "I think you'll be super awesome at something that keeps your hooves on the ground". Pinkie thought for a bit on what Twilight could do to help out, then an Idea flew into her head. "I know, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt could probably use your help with the critters". "Hey that's a great idea Pinkie, whadaya say Twilight"? asked Reiner. "Well... I'm pretty good with little animals. Yeah, I'll go help them"! Twilight declared, as she began sliding away. "Um, it's that way". Pinkie Pie said pointing in the other direction. Currently Publicly Availble Information Winter Wrap Up. The Ponies of Ponyville are tasked every year to clean up the winter season in order to get ready for spring. Because Ponyville was Founded by Earth Ponies, that means that Unicorn Magic is not allowed to be used. Twilight, Reiner, and Spike arrived over to where Fluttershy and Bertholdt were. Fluttershy was ringing a bell inside of a den in order to wake up the animals inside. "Wake up, little sleepy heads. Hope you had some wonderful dreams and restful hibernation, but it's time to get up now, spring is coming". Two hedgehogs came out of the den, just as Twilight, Spike, and Reiner came up. " Awww, how cute". Twilight cooed softly. "Aren't they? This is my favorite task the whole season, when I get to see all my little animal friends again". Fluttershy stated. "Um, what's hibernation"? Spike asked. "It's like a long sleep". Bertholdt stated. "Long sleep"? Spike asked in confusion. "Yes". Bertholdt answered, as Flutterhsy went over to another den. "Wake up little porcupines". She said softly into the den. "Animals often hibernate through the winter to save their energy and eat less food". Bertholdt explaine Spike smiled hearing all the things that hibernation had to offer. "I definitely like the idea of hibernation, uh, except for the "eat less food" part". "How do you know all about this Bertholdt"? asked Reiner. "Oh, um Fluttershy told me". "I see". Reiner said snarkaly. "What's that suppose to mean"?! Berthodlt asked in annoyance. "Oh nothing" Reiner smirked just as Fluttershy came back over to them, she frowned when she saw all the dens that we're still left. "Oh, would you just look at all these warrens and dens? Bertholdt I'm worried that we won't be able to wake up every animal before spring comes". Fluttershy said sadly. "Yeah, that does seem to be a problem". Bertholdt replied. "Well don't worry you two, Reiner, and I will help". Twilight stated happily. "You will? Oh thank you". Fluttershy smiled. " Okay, let's start there". Twilight said as she took a bell from the pile, and walked over to one of the dens. Once she arrived, she gentley rang the bell in order to awaken whatever animal was inside the den. "Hello? Wake up little friends, wherever you are. Spring is coming". Twilight rang the bell again. "Oh Reiner I wonder which cute little furry creatures I've awoken". She asked. Her question was soon answered, however it wasn't anything she was expecting, as three snakes came out of the den, causing Twilight to scream. "Waaa! Snakes! Snakes"! Twilight scurried back all the way into another den. A den full of bats. Twilight ran out screaming, she ran so fast that she didn't see where she was going, and bumped right into a tree. The force of her impact caused a beehive to fall and land right on her head, angering the stinging insects who did exactly that to Twilight. Once again she ran, right into a den that was the household of two Skunks who sprayed Twilight with their stink, and came out of the den as Fluttershy greeted them. "Good moring friends". Twilight groaned in both pain, and frustration. Back at the Golden Oak Library Spike, and Reiner we're cleaning Twilight off in order to get the skunk stink off of her. "All this Winter Wrap Up stuff is a lot harder than it looks". She stated. "Right, because there's no magic. Why don't you just use magic Twilight, and get it done the right"? Spike asked. " No, Spike, I have to do it the traditional way. Ponyville has never needed magic to wrap up winter". Twilight replied. "She's right Spike. We can't go aganist tradtion, this is the way it has to be done". Reiner stated. Spike however still tried to reason with both of them and said "Well, they never had you here before, either. Think how much quicker they could wrap up winter with your magic". No, no, no! I'm gonna find some other way that I can help out if it kills me"! Twilight responed with a newfound determination in her voice. After a few hours Twilight was finally ready to get back outside and help with winter wrap up. She went up to several different ponies to see if they needed help, but all of them kindly declined. Eventually though, Twilight, Spike, and Reiner made their way over to where Applejack, and Apple Bloom where. The elder Apple sister was ordering a group of stallions who were pulling snow carts around in order to clear the frozen water up. "Keep pushin', Caramel. That's it, Bumpkin. I know it's hard work, but you guys are doin' great. Yee-haw"! "Wow Applejack this is going wonderfully". Apple Bloom complemented just as Twilight walked up. "Hey Applejack, Apple Bloom how's everything going"? she asked. "Oh just dandy A little slow startin', but peachy all the same. There's a lot of ground to clear, ya hear? We can't even start the plantin' and the waterin' until we git all these heap a' snow hightailed outta here". Applejack explained. "Well Reiner and I would like to help". Twilight offered. Applejack, and Apple Bloom turned to Twilight with looks of heasitation. Unlike Rarity, Pinkie, and Fluttershy they were more reluctant to let Twilight help, as this was a job meant for strong ponies like Big Mac, or Reiner, the only reason Apple Bloom was even there was because Applejack wanted to prepare her for when she would eventually be pulling one of those snow carts, Applejack tried to tell Twilight that. "Well, I... I dunno Twilight". "Please! Just give me a chance". Twilight begged. Applejack looked down at Apple Bloom. "What do you think little sis"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom thought for a moment before answering. "Twilight is our friend, and this is her first winter wrap up in ponyville, so I think you should let her help, besides look at those guys down their, they seem so tired, they could probably use the extra assistance". "You're right Apple Bloom, besides I'd never turn down two hard workers". Twilight smiled after Applejack agreed to let her help, and soon she and Reiner we're straped to their own wagons to get ready to work. Reiner had an easy time pulling the wagon do to his streghth, and possible thanks to his Armored Titan abilty. Twilight on the other hoof was having trouble pulling her wagon. It was very heavy after all. As she struggled Twilight remembered back to what Spike said. "Think of how much quicker they could wrap up winter with your magic". Twilight thought for a moment. Maybe Spike's right, I mean a little magic couldn't hurt, yeah I could use a come to life spell". Twilight lit up her horn "Alright, here it goes". The spell seemed to work, now Twilight was having a much eaiser time pulling the cart, Reiner took notice of this, and stopped. "Twilight how are you"? He then noticed her horn was glowing. "Oh no". he mutterd. Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Spike also noticed how strong Twilight seemed to have gotten. "Hmm. She's awful strong for such a little pony". Applejack pointed out. Spike also seeing it realized what Twilight was doing, and a huge smile spread across his face. "That's my girl, following my advice". "And what in tarnation those that mean"? asked Applejack. Down bellow Twilight smiled as things seemed to be going pretty smoothly, but then her spell went wrong. She lost control of herself, and started to faster, and faster, causing more snow to pile up in the places that we're already cleared. "Uh-oh. Slow down. Slow down"! she cried out despreately, but to no avail, and soon she was ended rolling the snow into a giant snowball, that was headed striaght for Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Spike. Apple Bloom seeing the snowball wisely leaped out of the way just in time, However, Applejack, and Spike weren't so lucky, and the ball crashed into them causing both of them to start rolling in it. "What's going on? Wha'd'ya do? You used magic, didn't you"?! Applejack questioned. The ball kept rolling and rolling, until it crashed into a siding causing both Apple Bloom, and Reiner to cringe at the sight. The crash also caused a huge pile of snow to sprayed all over where the stalions had just cleared, meaning that they had to start over again. Something they we're not happy about. Apple Bloom, and Reiner came over to see if everyone was alright just as Applejack got up and began to scold Twilight. "Nuts, Twilight, you used magic"! "The nerve, can you believe her"? Spike stated, clearly trying to make it seem like he had nothing to do with this. Applejack only glared at him before turning back to Twilight. "That's not how we do it around here, Twilight, and especially not on my farm"! Applejack shouted. (vc-pf20132018 plays) Twilight's eyes filled with tears as she tried to explain the situation. "Well, see, I just wanted to... ". She couldn't bring herself to finish and ran off crying, as Reiner went after her. "Twilght wait"! he called out, as Apple Bloom went over to her sister. "Oh Apple Bloom, do you think I was a little to hard on her"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom couldn't answer. Reiner caught up with Twilight and ran infront of her. "Don't be so hard on yourself, everypony makes mistakes". "Not as bad as this". Twilight retorted as she looked at the mess she caused. "Okay, but still". Reiner began only for Twilight to intterupt him. "I know you're trying to make me feel better, and I really appriceate that Reiner, but I just want to be alone". With that, Twilight slowly walked off leaving Reiner alone. "I know exactaly how you're feeling". Reiner said in his head as he remembered the words of his mother, and Marcel. "I know you'll be able to complete your mission. And I'm sure your father is praying for your sucess too". "You weren't supposed to be chosen as a warrior in the first place.... But.... I influenced the army's opinion by putting you on a pedestal, and making my little brother look bad. I just, wanted to protect Porco from this hell we have to go through with the Power of the Titans. Please forgive me Reiner". After about twenty minutes of searching Spike eveuntally found Twilight hiding in a bush. Sighing he walked over to her. "Come on Twilight come on out". he begged. But Twilight refused. "I'm a winter mess up". Spike, wanting to be there for his friend tried to reassure her. "Well you're good at a lot of things, just not nest-making, ice-skating, animal-waking, snow-clearing". "Wow thanks for brighting up my mood". Twilight said sarcasticly. "That's what I'm here for, sister". Spike responeded just as Reiner came up to the bush. "Twilight come on, you can't stay in there forever". He said. "Yes I can! I'm not coming out". Twilight replied. Reiner sighed in frustration, he tried to think of something to get Twilight out of the bush, when his thoughts we're intterupted by Applejack's voice. "Rainbow Dash, y'all on the weather team need to melt the rest of the snow here on the ground and the trees, pronto". "Got it". Dash replied, and was just about to do what Applejack asked when Fluttershy, and Bertholdt stopped her. "Wait the animals homes will be flooded if the snow melts too fast". Fluttershy stated. "That's right, you need to wait Rainbow". Bertholdt replied. "Right". Dash replied this time listening to Bertholdt and Fluttershy. Applejack didn't like what she was hearing, and again told Rainbow Dash to melt the snow. "I'm telling you need to melt the snow now"! "No wait"! Fluttershy argued. "Okay"? Dash replied now unsure what to do as Applejack, and Fluttershy kept arguing. "Go"! Yelled Applejack. "Stop"! Yelled Fluttershy. The two of them kept going back and forth causing Rainbow Dash to get extremely frustrated with both of them. "Make up your minds already"! she exclaimed just as The Mayor walked over after hearing the argument. "Oh! What in Equestria are all you arguing about? This sort of silliness is why we were late for spring last year, and the year before that, and the year before that". The Mayor complained. Her statment had manged to get Twilight's attention, who poked her head out of the bush. "Did she say, late"? Twilight asked. "Sure sounded like it". Reiner responeded as the Mayor Continued. "I was hoping my amazingly inspirational speech would urge everyone to do better than last year, but now it looks like we're going to be later than ever. I mean just look at this catastrophe! The ice scorers made the ice chunks too big to melt. The nest designer is horrendously behind. We need several hundred, and she's only made one"! Mayor Mare stated as Rarity wept. "And don't get me started on all the clouds in the sky, the icicles on the trees... this isn't good, not at all". The Mayor sighed. "And it's gonna be all to pieces disastrous if we can't get our seeds all planted". Applejack stated. " Chillax Applejack, we're bustin' our chops as fast as we can". Rainbow Dash said. "No, not fast. We have to wake animals slowly". Fluttershy replied. Just then, Big Macintosh, and Apple Bloom came over with Caramel. "Um, Applejack". Apple Bloom called to her older sister. Applejack, already knowing what Apple Bloom was about to tell her sighed in frustration. "Oh good gravy, Caramel lost the grass seeds again, didn't he"? "Eeyup". Big Mac confirmed. Just then another pegagus named Rainbowshine came over to deliever more bad news. "Derpy just went north to get the southeren birds"! Rainbow Dash facehoofed in annoyance after hearing that. " Oh that featherbrain. Didn't she learn her lesson last year when she went west"? The ponies all started to complain and argue as Mayor Mare tried to calm everyone down. "Stop this at once. We don't have time to argue. It's almost sundown. Spring is going to be late again. Another year of scandal and shame. If only we could be more organized". Hearing this caused an idea to fly into Twilight's head. "Spike! Get my checklist and clipboard, STAT"! Spike looked at Twilight in confusion before nodding. "Eh, yes, ma'am". "What are doing"? asked Reiner. "I have a plan Reiner". Twilight replied as she tried to get the crowd's attention. "Stop, everypony". Twilight called. No one stopped. "Stop"! Twilight called again. No one stopped. Twilight then used a spell to cause a bird to chirp very loudly like a whistle. That got everyone's attention. "Sorry". Twilight apologized to the bird before turning to the others to adress them. "I know you all want to complete your jobs on time, but arguing is no way to go about it. What you need is organization, and I'm just the pony for the job. Twilight said just as Spike came back. And so, with Twilight's organization skills, the nest were completed, all the lakes melted, the southern birds brought home, all hibernatine animals awake, the fields all cleared, and soon all the snow melted. Once everything was done Mayor Mare couldn't be more happy. "I can't believe it. Spring is here! On time! And we have you to thank for it. If it weren't for your organizing skills we would still be arguing". She told Twilight. "Eeyup". Big Mac replied. "I told you you'd find a way to help out". Reiner said walking up to Twilight. "It was a team effort". Twilight responeded. Mayor Mare then walked over to Twilight with something. "And since you helped every team, we have an official vest for you. We give you the title, All-Team Organizer". Twilight was shocked, she couldn't help but smile. "Gosh, I don't even know what to say. Thank you, everypony". Mayor Mare then turned to the crowd. "And hereby I declare that winter is... wrapped up on time"! The crowd cheered in delight as Applejack looked over to where Spike was who was sleeping over one of the lakes on a small patch of ice about to melt. "Spike's sure gonna be in for a hell of a surprise when that last piece a' ice melts". she chuckled. Later that night, Twilight was resiting her letter to the Princess. "Dear Princess Celestia, Winter Wrap Up was one of the most special things I've ever been a part of here in Ponyville. It helped me to learn we all have hidden talents, and if we're patient and diligent, we're sure to find them, and as always, with good friendship and teamwork, ponies can accomplish anything". "Did you get that Spike"? Twilight asked, only to turn around and see Spike asleep. "Oh Spike". She laughed. Preview A strange dream effects Apple Bloom's peformance at school, not only that but some of the others children start to tease her for her lack of a cutie mark, so she plans to do whatever she can to both figure out what her dream means, and get her find her speical purpose in life. Next Episode. Call of the Cutie. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance. Twilight Sparkle Spike Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Kenny Ackerman (Flashback) Connie Springer (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Thomas Wagner (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Franz Kefka (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Floch Forster (Flashback) Mina Carolina (Flashback) Shoeshine Ameathsyt Star Lemon Hearts Golden Harvest Daisy Twinkleshine Derpy Hooves Berry Punch Mayor Mare Cherry Berry Lyra Heartstrings Applejack Rainbow Dash Apple Bloom Rarity Dr. Hooves Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Caramel Bumpkin Karina Braun (Flashback) Marcel Galliard (Flashback) Big Macintosh Rainbowshine Episode 18: Call of the Cutie: Gala arc Part 11The day was perfect. The sun was shining, birds were chirping, and there wasn't a single cloud in the sky, it was just beautiful. Apple Bloom happily frolicked in a field of red flowers, giggling and smiling as she fell to the ground and looked up at the clear blue sky. "Days like today should honestly be ilegal". Apple Bloom thought to herself, but then again, how could anyone want to spend their time inside on such a lovely day. Apple Bloom couldn't stop thinking about that fact, and it made her feel lonely as she was the only pony in the field. "Oh, I wish I had somepony to play with". she sighed before rolling over and staring off into the distance. That was when she saw something, at first Apple Bloom couldn't make out what it was, but once she got a closer look she could see that it was another filly up on the hill. The filly saw Apple Bloom, smiled, and waved, Apple Bloom smiled and waved back. For a while Apple Bloom just stared at the filly, she had a light pink coat, and curly light blue hair. The filly then beckoned for Apple Bloom to follow her, and then ran off. "Hey wait"! Apple Bloom called as she began to follow after the filly. However she stopped for a second, and looked back at her house, seeing her sister in the kitchen. "Applejack won't mind if I'm gone for just a few minutes".Apple Bloom thought. So she followed after her new friend. "Hey wait up". Apple Bloom called, as the filly kept giggling. They both kept running until Apple Bloom lost sight of her. "Huh, where'd you go? Are we playing hidie and seek"? She asked. Apple Bloom looked around, and it was then she realized where she was. The Everfree Forest, and she was deep in it too. "Oh no, I was so busy trying to follow that girl that I must have wondered into the forest". Begining to panic Apple Bloom started to run, hoping to find away out before any of the creatures that lived in this dastertly place came out to eat her, or maybe even find Zecora's hut. As she ran she heard a faint voice ""Apple Bloom". She ran faster, covering hears trying to drown out the sound, but it kept getting louder and louder. "Apple Bloom". "Apple Bloom"! Apple Bloom awoke with a start, panting she looked up to her teacher staring down at her with a stern look on her face. "Good moring". said Miss Cheerlie. Apple Bloom looked around in confusion. "What. Happend"? she asked. "You fell asleep during class". Cheerlie stated. "Oh, sorry". Apple Bloom apologized. Miss Cheerlie sighed "Well don't let it happen again, I really need you to pay attention to today's leason, because today we're learning about Cutie Marks". One student, Diamond Tiara was unimpressed by this leason. "Bo-ring". She sighed. Cheerlie ignored what Diamond Tiara had said and just continued on with the leason. "You can all see my cutie mark, can't you? Like all ponies, I wasn't born with a cutie mark. My flank was blank". Cheerlie explained while showing a picture of her as a filly. "Aww...! She's so precious"! exclaimed a student named Twist as Cheerlie continued. "Then one day, when I was about your age, I woke up to find that a cutie mark had appeared". "Hey look at her hair"! One student stated. "Yes I know, but honestly, that's how everypony was wearing their mane back then. I had decided to become a teacher, and the flowers symbolized my hope that I could help my future students bloom if I nurture them with knowledge. The smiles represented the cheer I hope to bring to my little ponies while they were learning. Now, can anyone tell me when a pony gets his or her cutie mark". Cheerlie asked. "Oh! Oh! Oh! When she discovers that certain something that makes her special"! Twist said. Cheerlie nodded. "That's right Twist . A cutie mark appears on a pony's flank when he or she finds that certain something that makes them different from every other pony. Discovering what makes you unique isn't something that happens overnight, and no amount of hoping, wishing, or begging, would make a cutie mark appear before its time". Cheerlie explained. "Apple Bloom tried to listen, and pay attention, but something was in the back of her mind, and that was the dream she had. "I don't know why, but I have a strange feeling about that dream. No I'm sure it meant nothing, then again Granny Smith told me once that dreams are sometimes visions of the future, but all I did was play in a field of flowers, and follow a strange girl into the Everfree forest. Maybe I'll meet her in real life one day........ No, I just". "Psssst". Apple Bloom was taken out of her thoughts by a noise, she looked over to see Diamond Tiara trying to hand her a note. Apple Bloom chose to ignore her, after all she had already gotten in trouble for falling asleep she wasn't going to be excused of passing notes either. Diamond kept trying to pass Apple Bloom the note, but unfourtently for her, she ended up being caught. "Diamond Tiara! Are you passing a note". Diamond Tiara dropped the paper and began acting innocent, as Cheerlie walked over. "What's so important that you couldn't wait till after class". she asked, but then looked down and saw that the paper had nothing on it. "Huh? It's blank". Cheerlie whispered, as Diamond Tiara smirked. "Remind you of anypony"? Diamond Tiara said looking towards Apple Bloom, however the farm filly was too focused on her dream to pay attention to what anyone was saying around her. After the class was over Apple Bloom headed over to her locker to get her lunch when all of a sudden Snips, Snails, and another colt named Featherweight came up to her. "Hey Apple Bloom you wanna eat lunch with us"? asked Snips "Yeah do you, do you"? Snails asked as well. Apple Bloom stared at all three of them in shock, she didn't know what to do. "Uh, I... Um..." Apple Bloom stuttered as she franitcly tried to come up with an excuse. She silently thanked her lucky stars when she saw Twist up a head. "Oh, I'm, uh terribly sorry you guys, but...um.... I promised Twist I'd have lunch with her today, and you know can't break a promise, heh heh, um... Buh bye". Apple Bloom said as she quickly trotted off leaving the three in confusion. Once Apple Bloom was far enough away she began to think about that, after all it wasn't the first time that had happened to her. "Ponyville Junior High. A fairly decent school in my opinon, sure it's nothing like Schools in big cities like Canterlot, or Manehatten, but It gets the job done. I still remember my first day here, I walked into my class, and for one reason or another I instantly became the most popular girl in the school. I don't know why it happened, and I certainly didn't ask for this"! Apple Bloom sighed, as she caught up with Twist. "Hey Apple Bloom, what's wrong"? Twist asked her friend. "Oh nothing, just have somethings on my mind". Apple Bloom replied. "What would that be"? Twist asked. Apple Bloom gave her friend a small smile. "Don't worry about it, after all I'm sure it's nothing important. I guess I just want to know how I got all this attention drawn onto me". Twist gave Apple Bloom a wide grin. "That's easy! It's because ever since the first day of school, you were so nice, and caring to everypony. If anyone needed help with their homework, or with solving a problem you'd offer your assistance, if you ever saw one of our fellow classmates sitting alone at lunch, and recess you would always join them in order to make them feel better, and you're always the first to welcome new students to the school". Hearing Twist say all this made Apple Bloom smile, maybe she was right. However, Apple Bloom's smile soon faded when she heard a familar, snobby voice. "I don't know why we had to sit through a lecture about getting a cutie mark". Apple Bloom looked over to see Diamond Tiara, and her little cohort Silverspoon coming towards them. "I mean, waiting for your cutie mark is sooo last week. You got yours, I just got mine. We all have them already. I mean, almost all of us have them already, I can't believe you two haven't got your's yet". Diamond Tiara said sarcasticly to Apple Bloom, and Twist. "Don't worry, you two, you're still totally invited to my cute-ceañera this weekend". "It's going to be amazing". Silverspoon piped up. "It's a party celebrating me and my fantastic cutie mark. How could it not be"? Diamond Tiara questioned as she and Silverspoon did their special little dance. "Bump! Bump! Sugar-lump, rump"! "Gimme a break". Apple Bloom sighed as Diamond Tiara and Silverpoon left. "See you later, Blank Flanks"! they insaulted. That night Apple Bloom went to bed early since she didn't want a repeat of what happened that morning, and once again she had the dream. The dream picked up right where it left off with Apple Bloon in the forest. She looked around franticly, trying to find anyway out. "Oh this dream is starting to turn into a nightmare". she muttered. Apple Bloom kept looking for something when she once again spotted the filly in a patch of trees, but this time she was with another filly. Apple Bloom couldn't see the other filly's face, but could make out some details about her. She had golden hair, and appeare to be wearing some tattered clothing. Of course they both ran off in the oposite direction. "Hey hold on"! Apple Bloom called out as she followed them all the way to a cave. Apple Bloom stopped, not sure if she wanted to go into the cave, but she wanted to know who those two were, so she decieded to go in. Apple Bloom ran through the cave, not stopping for any reason whatsoever. Finally she saw a light up ahead, and ran towards it. Apple Bloom however didn't find the exit, insted she seemed to be in some kind of other area of it, this one covered in what looked like crystals. "Woah" Apple Bloom stared in aww, when she suddenly heard something. Hiding behind one of the pilars, she saw eight strange looking creatures having a what seemed to be some kind of conversation. "Please, oh king I beg of you, please help me! Save the people before my wife, and childern, before everyone is eaten"! "Eaten? By what"? Apple Bloom asked in confusion her curiosty piecked as she wait for the female creature to responed. "No! This is our punishment for the sins we have commited for the last two thousand years"! She said. "Sins? What is she talking about, who are they"? Apple Bloom wondered. For awhile all of them seemed to just stand still confusing Apple Bloom even more. Then a blinding flash erupted from where the creature that asked for help was standing, sending a shockwave of crystal debries towards Apple Bloom who was knocked out. When she came too she looked around, and saw that the place had been slightly damanged. Apple Bloom looked around, and gasped when she saw a horrible sight. The children, and the mother of the creatures were most defenitly dead. Apple Bloom gasped in shock, espesicaly at the one who clearly seemed to be the youngest. Apple Bloom took a look at each of their bodies. They seemed to have been crushed from above, but what could have done that, there we're no rocks to have fallen on the ground. Apple Bloom backed away, and while doing so she caught glimpse of another creature, just standing still, looking at the carnage. Apple Bloom stared back at him for a bit, before seeing another light, hoping this one would lead her out, and sure enough it did. Apple Bloom found herself in another field. Breathing a sigh of relief, she decieded to take a rest, and forget about those two fillies. She laid down, but not only two seconds later the ground started to shake, and Apple Bloom jolted up in suprise as she wobbled and tried to keep her balance. She looked around, and in the distance, she could see a huge cloud of smoke up in the air. Apple Bloom gasped as she woke up from her dream. She looked up to see her older sister Applejack staring down at her with a stern look on her face. "Huh, Applejack? What happend"? Apple Bloom asked. "Ya overslept, come on you got chores to do". Applejack stated. "Oh, sorry". Apple Bloom apolgized. Applejack sighed, "Well come on you're gonna have to eat first before you do any work and". Applejack stopped when she looked back at Apple Bloom, a look of both confusion, and concern on the elder apple sister's face. "Apple Bloom..... Why are you crying"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom was confused by Applejack's question, so she looked in the mirror, and sure enough tears were streaming down her face. "I don't know". Apple Bloom simply replied. Later, Applejack, and Apple Bloom were outside gathering Apples from the trees in the orchard. Applejack bucked one tree and Apple Bloom caught them inside the basket she was carrying. "Nice catch sis". Applejack complemented. "Thanks". Apple Bloom smiled before looking down. "What's wrong"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom sighed. Why don't I have my cutie mark yet. She asked. Applejack looked at her little sister in confusion. "Now what brought this up"? she asked. "Well, Diamond Tiara invited me to her cute-ceañera this weekend, but the way she was braging about her cutie mark means I just can't show up without one of my own. Applejack gave her a confused look. "And what makes you think that"? she asked. "I just know I do"! Apple Bloom responeded. Applejack looked down at her little sister. "Well, I hate to break it to ya, but a cutie ani't just going to appear because you want one too, and besides I was the last one in my class to get my cutie mark, and I couldn't be prouder of it. I knew my future was to run Sweet Apple Acres, and these bright shiny apples sealed the deal. I think Big Mac, and Granny Smith we're also the last ones in their classes too, huh must run in the family. Hey hold on a minute. Run in the family". Apple Bloom gave Applejack a confused look before asking. "What are you talking about"? Applejack smiled and replied. "Think about it, I have three Apples for a cutie mark, Granny Smith has an Apple Pie, and Big Mac has half an Apple". "What are you getting at"? Apple Bloom asked. Applejack smiled again. "How would you like to help me at the market today". She asked. Apple Bloom gasped in shock. "A are you sure about this, I mean I" She stuttered, but Applejack put a reassuring hoof around her shoulder. "Don't you worry none, I know you're ready for this, and besides maybe you'll get your cutie mark". Hearing this Apple Bloom gave her sister a big smile. "Okay"! She exclaimed excitedly. Later that day, Applejack, and Apple Bloom were both in the market trying to cell the apples they had in their stand. "Get your delicious, nutritious apples here"! Applejack called out to the crowd. "Delicious, and nutritious"! Apple Bloom repeated. "As well as so many uses." she began to explain i hopes of drawing in at least one pony. "You can eat them". She said as she swallowed one whole. "Play with them". She said as she threw one, only for it to hit another pony. "Watch it"! "Sorry"! Apple Bloom apolgized, she then started to look around, and saw a stalion walking by. "Excuse me sir, would you like to buy an apple"? The stalion looked down at Apple Bloom. "No thanks I've got plenty at home". he responeded. Apple bloom looked down in dissapointment. "Oh, okay". she sighed. Seeing Apple Bloom's dissapointed look, the stalion sighed. "You know, maybe I don't have enough, tell you what I'll buy one, okay"? he asked as he gave Apple Bloom a bit, and bought an Apple. Apple Bloom gave a wide grin, happy that she made a sucessful sale. "Apple Bloom grab some more Apples from the wagon for me please". Applejack called out to her. "Sure thing big sis". Apple Bloom replied as she went over to grab more apples from the wagon. "This is going great, I thought it was going to be alot harder, but it's actually quite easy". Apple Bloom thought to heself as she made her way back over to Applejack, however she failed to see a chair leg sticking out in her way, and when Apple Bloom walked over to that area she tripped, sending the Apples flying into the air, and causing them to land all over Sweetie Drops. "Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry I didn't mean, I mean it was an aciedent and". Apple Bloom began to stutter. Sweetie Drops gave Apple Bloom a small smile. "It's alright, I mean I wasn't planning on buying any apples today, but since they're alredy in my bag I might as well. So how much". Apple Bloom turned to Applejack in hopes that she would know what to say. "Tell you what, do to the situation no charge". Applejack stated. "Why thank you". Sweetie Drops said as she left. Applejack smiled and turned towards Apple Bloom only to see her taken over her aporon. "Now what are doing Apple Bloom". Applejack asked. "I just don't think I'm ment to be a salespony". Apple Bloom replied. "Oh come on it was just one little mistake, everypony makes them on the first day". Applejack stated. "But what if I make more, and hurt somepony"! Apple Bloom protested. Applejack thought for a moment really unsure of what to responed with. Then she came up with something. "Listen, sugarcube, I know it's hard to wait for your very own cutie mark, but, you just can't force it. Besides, you're not that grown-up just yet. Ain't there other fillies in your class without one"? Apple Bloom thought for a bit. "Twist doesn't have her's yet". "Well then there you go, wouldn't you feel better going to the party with her"? Asked Applejack. Apple Bloom nodded. "Well alright then". Applejack said. As soon as Apple Bloom left, a stalion spoke up, "Hey, who's been using my racket". Applejack gave a nervous chuckle. Currently Publicly Avalible Imformation Cutie Marks. A mark that appears on A pony's flank. It is ment to tell a pony their special calling in life. Apple Bloom made her way over to Twist's place and knocked on the door. Twist smiled when she saw Apple Bloom. "Hi Apple Bloom, what's up"? she asked. Apple Bloom smiled at her friend and told Twist the reason why she was their. "So I was thinkin'... maybe we could go to Diamond Tiara's cute-ceañera together. I don't have a cutie mark, you don't have a cutie mark". Twist stopped and gave a nervous look. "Well, actually". Twist turned around and reavled that she had gotten her cutie mark shocking Apple Bloom. "Isn't it wonderful"? Twist asked. "I've always loved making my own favorite sweets, but it took me some time to discover that it was my super-special talent. Pretty sweet, huh"? Apple Bloom was still in shock, sure she was happy for her friend, but now she truly was the only one in class who didn't have a cutie mark. "Uh....... Yeah". She responeded. Indeed Apple Bloom was happy for her friend, but she was also clearly upset that she was now most likely the only one in her school without a cutie mark. "Hey... this doesn't mean we can't go to the cute-ceañera together. You're still gonna come to the party, are you"? Twist asked. "Of course she will". Said Diamond Tiara who had just shown up with Silverspoon". "Yeah It's not like being the only pony there without a cutie mark would be, like, the most embarrassing thing ever". Silverspoon laughed, as she and Diamond Tiara walked off with Twist leaving Apple Bloom alone. Apple Bloom, unsure of what to do next found herself laying beside a tree when Rainbow Dash showed up all of a sudden. "Whoa, looks like somepony's got a dark cloud hanging over her head. Let me do something about that. What's the matter, kid"? Dash asked. Knowing that Rainbow Dash was one of Applejack's best friends Apple Bloom took a deep breath and explained everything. "There's a cute-ceañera this afternoon and everypony in my class will be there and they'll all have their cutie marks and I wanna get my cutie mark but I'm no good at sellin' apples but I really wanna go to the party but how can I go to the party if I don't have my cutie mark which my big sister says I'm gonna get eventually but... I WANT IT NOW"! "Cutie mark? I can get you a cutie mark like that"! Rainbow Dash stated. "Applejack says these things take time. I have to just wait for it to happen". Apple Bloom Pointed out. Rainbow Dash just scoffed in response. "Why wait for something to happen when you can make it happen"? Dash asked. "But Applejack says th....." Apple Bloom began only for Rainbow Dash to intterupt her. "Hey, who are you gonna listen to, Applejack, or the pony who was first her class to get a cutie mark"? Rainbow Dash asked "I can think of a number of reasons not to listen to you". Apple Bloom mumbled to herself as Rainbow Dash continued "I always liked flying an' all, but I was going nowhere in a hurry. It wasn't until my very first race that I discovered a serious need for speed, and KAZAM, this sweet baby appeared as fast as lightning". Rainbow Dash took off beckoning for Apple Bloom to follow her. The little farm filly sighed. "I know I'm gonnna regret this". she said to herself as she followed Rainbow Dash (DOA Plays) Once they had gotten to a specfic area, Rainbow Dash had Apple Bloom doing push ups while she coached her on. "That's right, stretch out those legs. Gotta be nice and loose. The key here is to try as many things as possible as quickly as possible. One of them is bound to lead to your cutie mark. Are you ready". "I'm ready"! Apple Bloom said. "I said are you ready"! Rainbow Dash asked again. "I'M READY"! Apple Bloom repeted. "Juggling, go"! Rainbow Dash shouted. Apple Bloom proceeded to juggle five balls, and found that she was pretty could at it, but no cutie mark. So Dash opted to try something else. "Hang Gliding go"! Apple Bloom ran towards the edge of a cliff and leapt off. Soon she was soaring through the air, and while it was exciting it was also terrifying, so Apple Bloom landed on the ground without a cutie mark, Yet Rainbow Dash still had more tricks up her wings. "Karate, go"! Apple Bloom jumped at one of those things that's used for karate training. She kicked it so hard it was knocked out the window impressing Rainbow Dash. "Well Damn". she muttered. but still Apple Bloom had no cutie mark. "Kite flying go"! Ordered Dash. Apple Bloom flew the kite, but no cutie mark. "Ultrapony Roller Derby, go"! Again, no Cutie Mark. Rainbow Dash and Apple Bloom sat under a tree as Rainbow went over all the things they did in order for Apple Bloom to get a cutie mark. "Tried that one... tried that one... tried that one...". Apple Bloom sighed when once again she heard Diamond Tiara, and Silverspoon. She looked over and saw them wearng their new dresses for the party. "Your new outfit is, like, perfect for the party". Said Silverspoon. "I know. It totally shows off my cutie mark". Diamond remarked. "I love being special". Silver replied Can you imagine how embarrassing it must be to be... not special"? asked Diamond Tiara. "I don't even wanna think about that". Silverspoon replied as she and Diamond Tiara laughed. Apple Bloom sighed, when Rainbow Dash shouted out. "I got it!" "What is it"? asked Apple Bloom. Rainbow Dash came over to her and showed her a picture of a 60 meter ramp going stright down over several rings that were lit on fire. Apple Bloom gulped. "This pony's trying to kill me". "With this I'm sure you'll get your cutie mark in no time, and "Uh that's nice Rainbow Dash, and I really appreciate your help, but I uh, have somewhere else I really need to be right now". Apple Bloom said as she quickly ran off leaving Rainbow Dash alone and confused. Apple walked through the town. The whole time thinking about how she was going to be humilated at the party later. It plauged her mind so bad that everything and everyone became a blur. Apple Bloom had to sit down, and once she did, she began to hyperventilate. All of a sudden she saw two figures heading towards her. It was Toola Roola, and Coconut Cream. "Apple Bloom". Called Toola as she and Coco came up to her. Are you alright? Asked Coconut Cream. Apple Bloom shook her head. Toola Roola and Coconut Cream both looked at each other before Coconut Cream nodded. "Alright. Toola Roola stay with her, and I'm going to get some help". Eventually Coconut Cream returned with both Miss Cheerlie, and Nurse Redheart. Both of whom told Toola Roola and Coconut Cream to go as they could handle it from there. Once they left Redheart gave Apple Bloom a glass of water which she drank slowy. Once Apple Bloom had her composer back, she started to explain what happen. "I was walking, and then everything went blurry, and I had trouble breathing". "You've had a Panic Attack". Nurse Redheart explained simply. "Did something upset you, make you anxious"? She asked. Apple Bloom thought for a moment, remembering that it was the fear of being humilated at the party that caused the attack, but she didn't want them to know about it. "Yeah a little a guess". Apple Bloom stated. "You wanna talk about it, you can you know". Nurse Redheart said. Apple Bloom shook her head. Nurse Redheart nodded. "Well Panic Attacks can be very scary, but the symptoms are temporary remember that if it happens again. Hearing that scared Apple Bloom "It's gonna happen again"? She asked. "It might, I deal with filles younger then you who have them everyday". Nurse Redheart explained. "No! I can't go through that eveyday". Apple Bloom stated. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to sugesst that you would". Nurse Redheart Apolgized. "You know what how about I get Applejack". She sugesseted. "No! Don't tell Applejack, about this. Or Big Mac, or Granny Smith". Apple Bloom begged. "Apple Bloom, your family can really help you with this". Said Miss Cheerlie. "No"! Apple Bloom stated firmly. "Okay". Nurse Redheart Nodded. With that Apple Bloom walked off in the opposite direction. Once she was out of sight Cheerlie turned to Redheart. "Ellie, you're not really gonna keep this from Apple Bloom's family are you"? She asked. "For now Sammy, yes I am". Redheart confrimed. "But how long can you keep it from them, you know they'll find out eventually". Cheerlie protested. "I'm well aware, but this is what Apple Bloom wants". Redheart stated. Cheerlie sighed. "Alright". Meanwhile Apple Bloom kept on walking through town, however she couldn't help shake the feeling she was being followed, but when she turned around there was nopony, at least nopony who looked suspicous at all. Eventually Apple Bloom found herself at sugarcube corner where Pinkie Pie was setting out a tray of snacks, she looked up and noticed the little filly at the entrance. "Oh, hey Apple Bloom, how are you today". Pinkie Pie asked. Apple Bloom starred up at the pink party pony and began to explain. "Diamond Tiara is having her cute-ceneria today, and I've been trying to get my cutie mark so that I wouldn't become the laugh stock of the school". Once she finshed Apple Bloom looked over to wear Pinkie Pie was standing, but saw that she wasn't there anymore. Apple Bloom became confused and started to look around for the silly pony. "Pinkie? Hey Pinkie where'd you go"? she asked. Pinkie then appeared right behind Apple Bloom shocking the little filly. "What the, how did you". Apple Bloom was about to ask, but then she remembered who she was talking to. "It's Pinkie Pie, don't question it". she mummered to herself. "You wanna get your cutie mark"? asked Pinkie. "Um........... Yeah". Apple Bloom said hesetating a little with her response. "Well I can help you with that. I happen to know the perfect cutie mark for you". Pinkie Pie exclaimed excitedly. Apple Bloom beamed with happiness after hearing Pinkie's word's. "Really?! What, what is it"? she asked. "A cupcake making cutie mark!" Pinkie exclaimed as she grabbed Apple Bloom and brought her into the kitchen. "Hold on Pinkie, I'm not so sure about this". Apple Bloom protested. "What are you talking about you're an amazing baker". Pinkie Pie stated. "Yeah but those are all apple related dishes I make". Apple Bloom told her. "Well what about those brownies you bake? They're not apple related". Pinkie Pie said. "That was just an experiment I tried". Apple Bloom responeded. "An experiment"? asked Pinkie. "Yeah, I saw them in a recipie book one day, and decieded to give baking them a try. Them turning out the way they did was purely a coincidence". Apple Bloom replied. "Well now you can experiment with cupcakes, come on just give it a try". Pinkie Pie encouraged as she began to sing a little tune. "All you have to do is take a cup of flour! Add it to the mix! Now just take a little something sweet, not sour! A bit of salt, just a pinch! Baking these treats is such a cinch! Add a teaspoon of vanilla! Add a little more, and you count to four, And you never get your fill of... Cupcakes! So sweet and tasty! Cupcakes! Don't be too hasty! Cupcakes! Cupcakes, cupcakes, CUPCAKES"! Though she was still unsure if this was a good idea, Apple Bloom couldn't help but smile at Pinkie Pie's song. "Alright, let's make some cupcakes"! Apple Bloom said. "YAY"! Pinkie Pie cheered. After about thirty minutes the cupcakes were done, and they suprisnigly looked promising, though Apple Bloom was still unsure about the whole thing. "Oooh, those look amazing Apple Bloom"! Pinkie Pie stated as she took one and ate it. Seeing how Pinkie Pie gulped the whole thing down, Apple Bloom decieded to take a small bite herself, and to her suprise, they weren't half bad. "Huh maybe I will get my cutie mark in cupcake baking". she thought to herself. Just then Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "What's that"? Causing Apple Bloom to get excited. "What's what? Is there something on my flank? Is there, is there, is there"? Apple Bloom gasped when she spotted what looked like a cutie mark on her. "A cutie mark! It's a... a measuring cup? No. A mixin' bowl? No... Are those cupcakes? A tower of cupcakes maybe". She exclaimed, but then Pinkie Pie blew on it revealing that it was just some flour that got onto Apple Bloom's flank when they were baking. "Flour. It's flour! Yay! I guessed it. What game you wanna play next? Please say bingo, please say bingo". Apple Bloom however just sighed in dissapoinment and looked down. Just then, Twilight Sparkle, Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover all walked into the kitchen. "Hey Pinkie Pie, what are doing"? Twilight asked. "We've been making cupcakes, wanna try them"? Pinkie Pie asked as she brought the tray up to the three new ponies. "Woah, these look amazing". Stated Reiner as he Bertholdt, and Twilight each took one. "And they taste amazing too". Bertholdt pointed out. "Yeah who made them"? asked Twilight. "Apple Bloom did"! Pinkie Pie replied. Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt all turned to see Apple Bloom, still looking down in dissapointment. The three walked over to her. "You seem like you got something on your mind". Reiner stated. Apple Bloom didn't reply, she just kept looking down. "Apple Bloom? Are you okay". Asked Bertholdt. The little filly shook her head. "What's the matter"? asked Twilight. Apple Bloom took a deep breath. "Tiara's cute-ceañera's today and everypony in my class will be there and they'll all have their cutie marks and I want to get my cutie mark but I keep failing no matter what I try or how good I am at it but I wanna go to the party but how can I go to the party if I don't have my cutie mark, which Applejack says says I can't just make appear, but I need it it to appear, right now"! Twilight looked at Apple Bloom in confusion? "Why does it need to appear right now"? she asked. "Because if I go to the party without a cutie mark I'll be humilated". Apple Bloom stated. "And what can we do"? asked Twilight. "Can't either you or Mr. Braun use your magic to make my cutie mark appear"? asked Apple Bloom. Twilight looked at Apple Bloom in shock. "What? Oh no, Apple Bloom. A cutie mark is something a pony has to discover for herself". "Can't you please try? Pretty please"? she begged giving them really big puppy dog eyes. That almost got Twilight to cave, she would have most likley given in had it not been for Reiner. "Im sorry Apple Bloom, but neither Twilight nor I can do that for you". "But". Apple Bloom began only for Reiner to intterupt her. (Vogel Im Kafig Plays) "No! Apple Bloom listen to me, A cutie mark appears when a Pony finds his or her special talent right"? Apple Bloom nodded. "If Twilight or I just magically poof a cutie mark on to your flank, then you'll most likley end up with something you won't enjoy"? Reiner explained. Apple Bloom thought for a moment. "But Diamond Tiara said". Reiner stopped her before she could finish. "If all Diamond Tiara cares about is cutie marks, then she's not someone you should be trying to impress. You already have a family who loves you, and friends throughout Ponyville, the opinion of two little fillies isn't going to matter to anyone, and you know that". Apple Bloom didn't know what to say at first, but after thinking it over she knew that Reiner was right. "Yeah, you're right Reiner I shouldn't care what one pony thinks of me". "Right, now I suggest you go out there, and if Diamond starts to give you trouble, just let her know that you don't care what she thinks. Apple Bloom nodded, took a deep breath, and step outside to join the party. Once she was in the main room, she began to tense up, and get nervous, but she brushed her worries aside. You can do this Apple Bloom, remember what Reiner said, the opinion of one pony doesn't matter Just then Apple Bloom saw Applejack, and went over to her, Applejack smiled when she saw that her little sister had made it. "Apple Bloom, you made it. After I heard about Twist, I was afraid you wouldn't show up. I sure am glad you came to your senses about this whole cutie mark thing. These things happen when these things are supposed to happen. Trying to rush 'em just drives you crazy. I'll let you be, looks like your friends want to talk to you". Apple Bloom turned around, and saw Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon standing behind her with devious grins on their faces, but Apple Bloom didn't let that faze her. "Well well well, look who's here". Diamond Sneered. "And look who's still a blank flank". Silver Spoon joined in. Apple Bloom cringed at their remarks, but remembered what Reiner had said, and spoke up. "You're right, I don't have my cutie mark, and that's okay". Apple Bloom stated confusing both bullies. "O Okay"? asked Silver Spoon. (Call your Name Plays) "Yeah, because your opinions of me don't matter, If all you care about are cutie marks, then I'm not going to waste my time or my life trying to impress either of you. I know that I will get my cutie mark eventually, and It will be something I'm really good at. Now what that is I don't know, but I will when I discover it. Now if you two will excuse me". Apple Bloom went back over to Applejack who stood their in shock, so did everypony else. "Wow Apple Bloom, that was quite mature, and I for one am proud of you". Applejack stated. "Thanks Applejack, can we go? I'd honestly rather be with Ponies who like me for who I am, and not what's on my flank". Applejack smiled. "Sure thing, you got anywhere in mind". (The Reluctant Heroes plays) "Well".......... Apple Bloom stated. A couple moments later Apple Bloom, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt we're all hang gliding, and having a lot of fun while Twilight resited her letter to Princess Celestia "Dearest Princess Celestia, I am happy to report that one of your youngest subjects has learned a valuable lesson about friendship. Sometimes, the opinon of others doesn't change how your true friends feel about you..." "They help you learn who you should associate with, and who truly cares about you". Celestia concluded as she smiled at her own cutie mark. (Inside Wall Rose) Eren Yeager awoke from the dream he had, just as Mikasa Ackerman walked into the room. "Eren, are you alright"? she asked. Eren looked at her confused,before nodding. "Yeah, Yeah I'm fine Mikasa don't worry. What was that dream about"? Eren wondered. Preview Still trying to get her Cutie Mark, Apple Bloom and her class take a filed trip to Manehatten, where she encounters a troubling situation, luckily for her, there are old friends, and even new ones who will come to her aid. Next Episode A Simple Request. Author's Note Characters In Order of Appearance Apple Bloom Cozy Glow (Dream) Applejack Samantha Cheerlie Diamond Tiara Silverspoon Twist Toola Roola Coconut Cream Featherweight Snips Snails Ymir Fritz (Dream) Grisha Yeager (Dream) Frieda Reiss (Dream) Rod Reiss (Dream) Lady Reiss (Dream) Ulkin Reiss (Dream) Abel Reiss (Dream) Dirk Reiss (Dream) Florian Reiss (Dream) Eren Yeager Lyra Heartstings Tornando Bolt Lucky Clover Golden Harvest Shoeshine Dr. Whooves Berry Bunch Sweetie Drops Ace Point Rainbow Dash Ellie Redheart Pinkie Pie Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Princess Celestia Mikasa Ackerman Episode 19: A Simple Request: Gala arc Part 12(VCNPf Plays) 3 Years ago. "I'm going to return to the hometown we lost, that's all I care about now". Reiner stated, as he, Bertholdt, Eren, and Armin walked up the hill. I joined the ranks hoping to get into the military police, and work from the safety of the interior. What about you? Why'd do you want to be a soldier"? asked Bertholdt. Eren thought for a moment, remembering his mother's death before answering. "I decided I have to kill them, I won't stop until every single Titan is dead". Eren told them. The four people kept walking, as Reiner spoke to Eren. "You saw what those monsters are capable of, and you still wanna take them on"? he asked as they reached their destanation. Reiner turned back to look at Eren. "I know you can do it, I can see it in your eyes. Eren Yeager was it"? Present Reiner stared out the window of his home. One day, we will return to our hometown. The sun rose up at Sweet Apple Acers as Apple Bloom got up from her bed, stretched, and looked out the window. The sky was clear and crisp, not a single cloud at all. Apple Bloom smiled, and walked into the bathroom where she took a shower, and got ready for school. Once she was done Apple Bloom headed downstairs to where her family was having breakfest. "Morning little one". Granny Smith greeted. "Good moring everypony". Apple Bloom said with a smile as she joined them at the table. "How'd you sleep last night"? asked Applejack. "Pretty good". Apple Bloom replied as she took a bite of the pancakes that were on her plate. "Wow Granny these are amazing"! she complemented. Granny Smith smiled as she walked back over to the table to join her grandkids. "Why thank you kindly youngin". Granny Smith said. Applejack smiled as she stared at Apple Bloom's happy face. "Ya'll might wanna move along, don't forget you have a field trip today". Applejack stated causing Apple Bloom to gasp. "I completly forgot about it"! Apple Bloom exclaimed. I a panic she began to rush eat her pancakes when Applejack stopped her. "Woah woah slow down there AB, don't worry you got plenty of time. I was just telling you to move along, but that doesn't mean I want you to eat so fast that you end up choking". Applejack stated. Apple Bloom blushed in embarrsement and looked down. "Sorry". she mummbled meekley as Applejack, Big Mac, and Granny Smith all laughed. Apple Bloom hapily trotted through ponyville towards ponyville junior high. As she walked through town, she walked path Mr. and Mrs. Cake who kindly waved to her. "Hello Apple Bloom". Called Mr. Cake "Good Morning". Apple Bloom waved back. Apple Bloom then walked past city hall, where the Mayor was outside speaking to two of her assistants. "Howday Miss Mayor". Apple Bloom called out. "Mayor Mare turned around after hearing her name called, she looked over to see Apple Bloom. The Mayor then smiled at the little filly and waved back. Eventually Apple Bloom arrived at Ponyville Junior High, and saw that everyone was already outside getting ready. Apple Bloom sighed, realizing that she had made it just in time. The first thing she needed to was find Miss Cheerlie, and give her the permission slip. Apple Bloom looked around for her homeroom teacher, and eventually saw her speaking to Twilight Sparkle, Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover. Curious, Apple Bloom decieded to evesdrop on their conversation. "I wanna thank the three of you again for coming on this trip, Celestia knows will need all the help we can get". "No problem Miss Cheerliee, we're happy to help". Reiner Replied. "Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt are going to be coming with us? That's wonderful"! Apple Bloom thought. "As I was sent here to learn about friendship, I feel this will be a good experince for me". Twilight stated. "I just wanna see more cities in Equestria, all my life I've lived in that villige, and never saw anything beyond the mountians". said Bertholdt. Hearing that made Apple Bloom feel bad for Bertholdt, she of course new of what happened to Reiner and Bertholdt's hometown, and also knew that they missed it and wanted to go back there one day, but maybe there was a part of them that was glad they didn't live there anymore. "Hello Apple Bloom". Apple Bloom jumped in suprise when Reiner called out her name. She looked up to see the three ponies staring her, smiling. "Listening in on our converstion I see, quite sneaky my little filly". Twilight chuckled. Apple Bloom didn't say anything, she just pulled out the permission slip, gave it to Miss Cheerilee, and quickly got in line. After a few miniutes Miss Cheerlie walked up to address the children. "Okay boys and girls, now that we're all here let's head to the train station". The students all began to walk, Apple Bloom a little more slowly then the others. As she did, she remembered a momment from her past. A young Apple Bloom gulped nervously as she looked up at her father. "I don't know, are you sure they're gonna like me Daddy"? Bright Mac looked down at his youngest daughter and gave her a warm smile. "Of course they will sweetie, now you go on and have a good day okay". Apple Bloom gave her father a small nod before hugging him goodbye, and walking into the building. Apple Bloom had to consider herself lucky as her class was the first one on the right. She walked up, and knocked on the door. A kind looking mare opened up and smiled at Apple Bloom. "Hello you must be the new student". Apple Bloom nodded. "I'm Miss Cheerilee, you're new teacher, now please come on in, and introduce yourself to the others". Apple Bloom followed Miss Cheerilee inside. "Children". Cheerile annocued to the others. "We have a new student joinning us today". She gestured to Apple Bloom who walked up infront of the board. "Introduce youself". Cheerliee stated "Hello, I'm Apple Bloom, it's very nice to meet all of you". Apple Bloom stated. Apple Bloom looked around, and saw that the other students were all staring at her. "She's adorable". said one female "Where are you from Apple Bloom". asked another male "I live at Sweet Apple Acres". Apple Bloom responded "Woah so cool". said another colt. Apple Bloom looked up, and saw that everyone was smiling at her, well almost everyone, their happened to be two her were giving very dirty looks which confused her, but she decieded not to let it bother her. "Alright Apple Bloom why don't you take your seat in the back row okay". said Miss Cheerilee. Apple Bloom nodded, and went to her seat. "Alright now I want everyone to pull out their textbooks and a pencil, and head to page 13". Orderd Miss Cheerilee. Apple Bloom did as she was told, and opened the book, but noticed she was missing a pencil. "Apple Bloom, where's your pencil?" asked Cheerliee. "Oh, I don't seem to have one". Apple Bloom stated. That was when she heard a voice next to her speak up". "Here, I have an extra you can use". said a small earth pony filly with curly red hear and glasses. "Thank you". Apple Bloom smiled as she took the pencil from the girl. "No problem my name's Twist and I think we're going to be good friends". Said the filly. Apple Bloom smiled at the memmory as she and the others arrived at the train station. As she was waiting to board, she heard a harsh "Ahem" next to her. Apple Bloom turned around to see Diamond Tiara, and Silverspoon giving her the same dirty looks they gave her on the first day of school. "What do you want Diamond Tiara"? Apple Bloom asked. "You made a very big mistake Apple Bloom". Silverspoon snarled. This confused the earth pony filly but she was curious on what Silverspoon was talking about. Diamond Tiara raised her hoof, signgaling for Silver to stop "Silvey, I will handle this, okay?" Silverspoon reluctantly looked down, and nodded. "You see Apple Bloom, after your little speech at my cute cenera, everypony stopped paying attention to me, they we're all busy talking about how great you were, and you weren't even there"! Diamond Tiara! Apple Bloom just stared at Diamond before speaking. "Im sorry, but all I said was that I didn't care about what your opinion of me was. I never had any intentions of ruining your party". "Well you did, and mark my words you will pay for that"! Diamond Tiara warned. That threat made Apple Bloom worry a bit, but luckily they we're now boarding the train. Once Apple Bloom was on, she made her way to very back of the train, and sat down. After that brief encounter with Diamond Tiara, and Silverspoon Apple Bloom did not feel like talkng to anyone. Apple Bloom leaned back in the seat, wondering what to do. She then decieded to pull out a blank piece of paper, and a marker, and she began drawing a picture. Eventually Apple Bloom was involed with her drawing, that she didn't notice anyone, until she heard a voice. "Hello Apple Bloom". Apple Bloom jumped up, and saw Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt standing next to her. She sighed in relief, and greeted them. "Hi Twilight, Mr. Braun, Mr. Hoover" "That's a pretty amazing drawing". Bertholdt compleneted. Apple Bloom smiled. ""Thank you, drawing is something I like to do in my spare time". Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt each took one of the empty seats next to Apple Bloom, and began chatting with her. This made Apple Bloom very happy, as she was begining to feel lonley by herself. Unbenknownst to any of them, Apple Bloom was being watched from afar, by Sweetie Belle, and another pegagus filly. "Is that her"? The pegagus asked Sweetie Belle. Sweetie Belle nodded. "Sure is Scootaloo". "Okay, then you know the plan, we talk to her, and get her to join our club". Scootaloo replied. The two of them were about to get up, and go over to Apple Bloom, when they heard an anonucement from the train engenier. "Next stop, Manehatten". "Damnit" muttered Scootaloo. As the train pulled into the city, Apple Bloom stared out the window in awe at the site of how magnieficent it was. "Woah Manehatten's a lot bigger then I thought it would be." she stated. "It sure is, I bet Rarity's green with envy right now". Twilight replied, causing Apple Bloom to giggle. "Alright everypony, lineup so I can explain how this is going to work". Miss Cheerlie anounced. The students all lined up to face Cheerile who was standing with the other two teachers. Miss Cheerlie then spoke up. Okay children, now each of you have a colored sticky note. Those notes are the colors of the groups you'll be in, and the teachers you'll be with. One teacher had an orange sign, The students who had orange sticky notes went over to him, they were Diamond Tiara, Silverspoon, Snips, Snails, and Rumble. "Oh great, those two''. Diamond Tiara muttered gestering to Snips, and Snails. "Hey at least better then having a blank flank with us". Silverspoon whispered back while snickering and pointing towards Apple Bloom, who looked away in embarssment. "That's true". Diamond Tiara sneered. The next teacher held up a purple sign. The purple group was Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Featherweight, Toola Roola, and Coconut Cream. Scootaloo looked around and noticed that Apple Bloom wasn't with them. "Shit". she cursed underneath her breath, as Sweetie Belle placed her hoof on Scootaloo's shoulder. "Don't worry, we'll have plentey of time to talk to her, and get her to join our club. By the way what's the name of it?" Sweetie Belle asked. "Oh, that I don't know". Scootaloo chuckled sheepishly. Finally, Miss Cheerile heled up a grey sign. That group was Petinua, Shady Daze, Rainy Feather, Dinky Doo, and Cotton Cloudy. Once the groups were set up, Apple Bloom began to look around and realized that she didn't have an orange, purple, or gray sticking note, so she had nowhere to go. She started to panic, when Twilight walked over to her. "Don't worry Apple Bloom, your with us". Twilight stated. Apple Bloom looked at her confused, so Reiner explained. "You see, the reason Twilight, Bertholdt and I are on this trip is to be with the studnets who don't have an assigned group, and low and behold you're that student. I hope you don't mind". Apple Bloom beamed in delight in response to Reiner's statment. "Good". Reiner sighed in relief. "Okay, where to first". Twilight asked. "Who knows, Bertholdt replied. As the three adults talked, Apple Bloom thought about everything she did, before the cute cenera last weak. "Maybe there's something here that I can do in order to get my cutie mark"! Apple Bloom thought to herself, just as Twilight tapped her on the shoulder. "Hey, Apple Bloom what are you doing" she asked. Apple Bloom looked up. "Oh sorry Twilight, just spacing out I guess". "Well come on, lets at least go somewhere, cause If I tell Rarity that all I did in Manehatten was stand around and talk, she'd never let me hear the end of it". Twilight stated as she thought about what exactly Rarity would say ("You just stood around and talked! UNACCEPTABLE"!) "That comment made Apple Bloom laugh, which made Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt laugh as well. Currently Publicly Avaliable Information Signal Flares. These small firearms use gunpowder to fire signal flares. Detachable barrels with signal flares inside are swapped in and out for every shot. Messages are conveyed by using different colors of smoke. Red: Titan spotted. Green: Formation should proceed. Black: Abnormal spotted. "Apple Bloom, Bertholdt, Twilight, and Reiner walked through Manehatten, visting many different, and excting places. Eventually they decieded to take a rest at a nearby park, which had a pond that had ducks, geease, and even a swan swimming in it. Apple Bloom walked over to the pond, and began feeding the birds some bread. Afterwards she noticed a giant boulder off in the distance, that was when an idea flew into Apple Bloom's mind . "Rock climbing? That might be the perfect cutie mark for me!" Apple Bloom ran over to the boulder, and began climbing it, imagining that it was the highest mountain in the world, and she was the first pony to make it to the top, however when she was almost there, she lost her footing, and slipped. Apple Bloom screamed as she fell to the ground. Apple Bloom closed her eyes as she waited for the impact, but it didn't happen. She opened her eyes, and looked up to see that Reiner had caught her. He set her down on the ground, and Apple Bloom turned away from him, with her head down". "Hey, take it easy Apple Bloom I know you want your Cutie Mark, but you're going to get hurt if you keep doing stuff like this". Reiner stated. Apple Bloom, still with her head down, simply stated. "Why Mr. Braun"? Her question confused Reiner, until Apple Bloom continued "No matter what I do, I just can't seem to get my cutie mark, and I can't stand it! Please Mr. Braun, tell me, what can I do to get me cutie mark? How do I become strong, like you?" She asked. Reiner realized something. He realized how much Apple Bloom reminded him of both Eren, and of Reiner himself when he was training to be a warrior. He knew that he had to say something. "Just, do what you can". Reiner remebered back to when he told Annie, and Bertholdt how they would breach Wall Rose. "The day after the disbandment ceromony. That's when we do it". "Just keep moving forward, that's all you really can do as of now". He told Apple Bloom "He remebered discovering Eren was a Titan "Eren. Don't Tell me you're. Killing Marco "Hey, why is Marco, getting Eaten"? Reiner reached out his hoof, Apple Bloom grabbed it, as he helped her up. Reiner thought back to when he and Annie killed the two Titan test subjects captured by the survey corps "We'll prove that we are warriors. Tonight, before they have a chance to learn anything about the two captured Titans Annie and I will dispose of them. "You're Right". Apple Bloom stated. Reiner remebered betraying the Survey Corps "We we're kids. What did we know about anything"? "I just gotta keep trying, and never give up". Apple Bloom said. Reiner smiled at the little filly. "You will get your cutie mark Apple Bloom trust me. I belive in you. We all believe in you". Apple Bloom smiled. "Thank you Reiner". Reiner remembered the words of Marcel. "Sorry Reiner. You see... You weren't supposed to be chosen as a warrior in the first place.... But.... I influnced the army's opinion by putting you on a pedestal, and making my little brother look bad. I just, wanted to protect Porco from this hell we have to go through with the Power of the Titans. Please forgive me Reiner". His mothers words "I know you'll be able to complete your mission. And I'm sure your father is praying for your sucess too" Reiner looked at the smile on Apple Bloom's face. He couldn't help but smile back, but he also remembered the words he has repeated over and over again. "I'm a chosen warrior. Entrusted with the Armored Titan. I'm going to punish the island devils, and become the hero whos saves everyone". Apple Bloom, and Reiner walked around the park, when Apple Bloom looked over and spotted an candy shop across the street. She looked up at Reiner with pleading eyes. "Can I go buy something from that candy store over there"? She asked. Reiner looked over at the store, and sighed. "Alright, but be sure to come right back". he told her. Apple Bloom ran off to the store as Reiner watched her, just to make sure she made to the store safetly. However, unbeknownest to either of them, someone else was watching Apple Bloom. Somepony with bad intentions. Inside the store Apple Bloom trotted over to one of the isles, and began to survey her options. Meanwhile at the counter, a police officer was talking to the employee working the regesiter, all while paying for his items. "Will that be all for you today Officer Smith". Asked the cashier. "Yes, thank you Ramsey". The cop replied. Ramsey scaned the items Smith had placed on the counter. "Alright that will be four bits". "Here you are". Said Smith as he paid. He was just about to leave, when a tall unicorn mare with short blonde hair, and an angry scwol walked into the store. "Great, her again". Ramsey muttered under his breath. Smith looked at Ramsey, he knew very well who that woman was. "I think I'll stay for a little while, I know how much Karen likes to cause trobule for you and your employees". Smith said to Ramsey. "Thank you". Ramsey side in relief. Karen walked down one of the isles, just as Apple Bloom came up to the counter. "Excuse me, can you please help me"? she asked. Ramsey looked down and smiled at the little filly. "Sure thing, what is it"? "Do you have any candy apples"? Asked Apple Bloom. Ramsey nodded. "Yes, they're in the back row". Apple Bloom beamed happily "Thank you"! she said as she ran off to the back row. Ramsey smiled, but it soon turned into a nervous look. "What's the matter"? asked Smith. Ramsey turned to Smith, and pointed a hoof at Karen. "She was eyeing that filly". Ramsey stated. Karen then headed in the same direction as Apple Bloom as Ramsey made a call on his walkie talkie. "Cali, Cali come in". A female voice answered from the other side. "Yeah Ramsey"? "I need you to go to the candy apples isle, and also have security watch the cameras that are on that isle". Ramsey stated. "Okay, but how come"? Cali asked. "Because Karen is here". Ramsey replied. "Ugh, great". Cali sighed. Alright I'll be right there". she stated. Cali walked over to the security office, and told them the situation. She then headed over to the candy apple isle. Once she arrived she saw Apple Bloom looking through the isles, that's when the unicorn mare arrived. Cali decieded to stay back and watch, just to see what happened. Apple Bloom kept staring at her options, completley oblivous to the unicorn mare staring creppily at her. Karen walked right behind Apple Bloom just as the young filly picked out the Candy Apple she wanted. However, when Apple Bloom turned around, she bumped right into the unicorn. Cali saw this, and immeditly started to make her way over to them, knowing what was about to happen. Apple Bloom looked up and immeditly apologized. "Oh I'm so sorry ma'am I didn't see" Karen intterupted her. "HOW DARE YOU YOU LITTLE BRAT". Apple Bloom jumped back in shock. "Okay well that was rude". She stated. "SHUT UP, I'LL HAVE YOU PAY FOR THIS"! Karen Yelled. "Sorry Ma'am but I didn't see you there, you were right behind me after all". Apple Bloom tried to explain, but Karen was having none of it. She was just about to grab Apple Bloom, when Cali showed up at the end of the isle. "Ms. Karen"! Cali called out. Apple Bloom, and Karen turned to see Cali. "I guess she's an employee here". Apple Bloom pondered. She then turned to Karen, who had smrik on her face, as she ran over to Cali. "Thank goodness you're here, this child assaulted me". Apple Bloom stared at Karen in shock. She then got scared, fearing that she would get in trouble, or even arrested, she had seen a cop here after all, but then she saw the employee mouth the word "Go". "Huh"? Apple Bloom wondered, but then realized what the employee was trying to say. Apple Bloom quickly grabbed another candy apple, as the one she had before was ruined, and went to the counter. There Ramsey and Smith were still talking, when Apple Bloom came up. Ramsey smiled. "Well ma'am did you find what you were looking for". Apple Bloom nodded. "Yes, thank you sir". Apple Bloom replied. She was just about to get the money from her saddlebag, when Ramesy stopped her. "You can have that for free". He stated. "Really"? Asked Apple Bloom in confusion. Ramsey nodded. Apple Bloom smiled. "Thank you". She said happily. "No problem, you just run along". Ramsey replied. Apple Bloom took the candy apple, and headed for the exited. "Goodbye! Have a great day". she called out to Ramsey, and Smith as she left the store. Back in the candy apple isle, Cali was still trying to distract Karen, when the snotty unicorn turned around, and realized Apple Bloom was gone. She turned to Cali, who had a smug look on her face. "Yes"? Cali asked. "Where is that little brat"?! Karen demanded. Cali looked at her confused. "Why, what little brat"? she asked. "The one I was just about to bring to the manger when you intterupted me, she was right there so you should have seen her"! "I didn't see anyone there during our whole conversation, it was just you and me". Cali stated. Rage filled Karen's eyes, and she yelled out in frustrated. "THAT'S IT! YOU NOW WHAT I'M GOING RIGHT TO THE FRONT DESK TO SPEAK TO THE MANGER! With that, Karen marched stright up to the front desk. "With any luck, she'll still be up there paying, and I can make her pay for what she did". Karen muttered to herself as she walked towards the counter where Ramsey and Smith we're still talking "Ah, speak of a bitch and she shall appear". Ramsey whispered to Smith, who chuckled as Karen walked up to them. Ramsey put on his best customer service face as Karen walked over them. "Good day ma'am, and what can I do for you". he asked. "There was a little filly who assaulted me, and I demand to know where she is"! Karen yelled. "Did this filly have long red hair, and a bow"? asked Smith "Yes, where is she"! Karen yelled. "Ma'am I'm going to ask you to lower your voice, and to answer your question, that filly you're talking about just left not to long ago, and another thing, we know you're lying, because we had security looking at the cameras the whole time. So you have two options, either you get the hell out of my store, or you can go to jail". Ramsey said as he gestuered to Smith, who pulled out his hoofcuffs, and should them to Karen. Karen, stared angrily at them, snarled, and walked out of the store in a huff, just as Cali walked up to them. "Geez, I thought she'd never leave". she said. Ramsey nodded. "Yeah, but knowing her, she'll be back". Smith turned to Ramsey, and Cali. "I'm going to head out too, I'm going to make sure that little filly is going to be okay". Ramsey smiled. "Alright, you have a good day officer Smith". "Thanks you too". Smith said, as he left the store. Outside Apple Bloom walked back over to the park while eating her candy apple, but when she got there she noticed that Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt were gone. Confused she wondered futher into the park, but it became clear that they weren't there. In a panic Apple Bloom rushed into the the city calling out for anyone. "Hello! Miss Cheerlie? Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, Anypony"! But there was no reply, and there were so many ponies around. Apple Bloom vision became blurry as it seemed like all the ponies seemed to mergened into one giant mass. She began to hyperventilate, and sat near the corner of one of the shops and began to shake. Being a young girl lost in a big city like Manehatten would have been scary for anyone in her situation. She then thought about her class, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt, they had worried sick, and her family she didn't want to think about what day would do if they found out she was missing. The thoughts plauged Apple Bloom's mind, as she began to hyperventalite even more. Now having a full blown panic attack Apple Bloom wondered what she should do. Realizing that getting panicing wouldn't help her in this situation. So, slowing down her breathing to small deep breaths Apple Bloom began to think of what to do next. That was when she got an idea. All she had to do, was go back to the train station and wait for them there. Meanwhile Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt walked out of a patch of woods in the park. "Fluttershy would have loved that". Twlight stated. "I know". Stated Reiner. He then looked around, and noticed Apple Bloom was still gone, Bertholdt noticed this as well. "Hey, where's Apple Bloom"? "Oh she went over to that candy store across the street, don't worry I'll go get her". Reiner stated. With that, he trotted over to the Candy shop, and headed over to the front desk where Ramsey, and Cali were still talking. "Excuse me". Reiner called out, causing Ramsey, and Cali to look at him. "Yes, how may I help you"? asked Ramsey "Have you seen a little filly with Red hair, and a pink bow"? Reiner asked. Ramesy and Cali looked at Reiner for a second before Ramesy cleared his throat. "Um yeah, but she left a while ago". A look of horror spread across Reiner's face, as he rushed out of the store, much to the shock and confusion of Cali and Ramesy. Reiner ran back out to the park. "Reiner, where's Apple Bloom"? asked Twilight. "They told me she left a while ago". Reiner replied. "WHAT"?! Twilight shouted. "But that means she's lost in this city". Bertholdt replied. Reiner nodded. "Well we have to find her then!" Twilight stated. With that, the three of them ran off in hopes of finding Apple Bloom, completely unaware that Karen was listening in on their conversation. "So, those three know that little brat, if I follow them, then I'll find that filly, and there's nothing they'll be able to do to stop me". She snickered evily as she followed Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt. Elsewhere, Apple Bloom was trotting through the city, making her way back to the train station. She had manged to calm herself down from her intial panic, and just slowly walked, doing her best to avoid anypony near her. However she also wasn't paying attention to where she was going, and this resulted in her bumping into someone else, knocking her down. Apple Bloom was about to apologize when she heard a female voice. "My god are you alright"? The voice asked. Apple Bloom looked up, and saw a filly a little older then her looking down. Apple Bloom quickly nodded her head, and stood up. The two of them stared at eachother for a bit before the new filly spoke up. "So, are you okay"? the girl asked Apple Bloom shook her head. "No I lost my class". Apple Bloom replied. The filly looked at her in concern "Well where did you last see them?" She asked "We came here on the train, and I was heading back to the station to wait for them". Apple Bloom responded "The filly nodded. "So, what's your name"? she asked "My name's Apple Bloom". Apple Bloom replied. The filly smiled. "Hello Apple Bloom, my name's Rayana". The filly responded. Apple Bloom smiled back. "Nice to meet ya". she replied. "So Apple Bloom, why don't I help you find your friends, okay"? asked Rayana. Apple Bloom stared up at her, unsure of what to say. Rayana noticed this. "Hey don't worry about it, you really look like you need some help anyways". Rayana replied. Apple Bloom thought for a moment before decieding that getting help would probably be best. So she nodded her head. Rayana smiled, and the two of them headed off in search of the rest of the school. Meanwhile, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt had just run into the other students. All who were all waiting at the meeting area. They hoped Apple Bloom would be there, but she wasn't. That was when they realized they never told her where the meeting place was. Cheerlie looked up at them, and saw the distressed look on their faces. "What's the matter she asked"? "Apple Bloom's missing"! Twilight exclaimed. Cheerlie gasped after hearing this. "Are you quite certain". She asked "Yes! We were hoping she was here, but that doesn't seem to be the case". Reiner responeded. "Do you have any idea where she could be". asked Bertholdt. Cheerlie shook her head. "No I don't, this is terrible, she's just a little filly, who knows what could happen to her". "Which is why we need to find her". Twilight stated. Cheerlie nodded in response. "But where do we even started looking"? she asked. "How about the train station"? Said Coconut Cream. Everyone turned to look at her as she continued. "Since we came here by train, she might have gone back to where we first arrived". Coconut Cream explained. "Coconut Cream, you're a genius". Reiner exclaimed". "Why didn't we think to look there first"? Twilight blurted while face palming herself. Now that they had an idea on where to go, all of the headed stright for the train station. Unaware that Karen, was still watching them, snickering deviously. Meanwhile, Apple Bloom, and Rayanana were both still walking down to the station when Rayanana stopped all of a sudden. "Rayanana, are you okay". Apple Bloom asked. Rayanana nodded. "Yeah, just tired. I think it's best if we rest for a little bit, come on I know a place we can go". Rayanana led Apple Bloom to another park. It wasn't like the other one with a playground for little kids, this one was more like a nature park with flowers, and lots of animals. It made Apple Bloom forget for a bit that she was in a big city. "Woah, this place is beautiful". Apple Bloom admired. "That it is. I always love coming here when I need to get away from the hussle and bussle of living in a big city. Rayana stated. Apple Bloom smiled, as this place brought back a memmory for her. "You know, my mother would always sing a song to me about places like this". she stated. Apple Bloom then started singing a soft melodey. Naiintindihan mo ba? Mayroon doong magandang balon Punta, ka lang dito Halika, at maupo Halika, at maupo Lalalala Lalalala Meanwhile. The class was still looking when Twist heard Apple Bloom singing. She turned and saw the path to the park "Everypony, Apple Bloom is in this park". She exclaimed "How do you know"? Asked Twilight. "Because, listen". Twist replied. Everyone went silent and listened. That was when they heard the singing. "She's right, that is Apple Bloom I recgoinze that singing voice anywhere". Toola Roola stated. Back in the park, Rayanana couldn't help but smile at Apple Bloom's song. "Wow Apple Bloom you have an amzaing singing voice". she complemented. Apple Bloom smiled. "Thank you Rayanana. Just then, they heard Twilight's voice call out. "Apple Bloom"! Apple Bloom, and Rayanana turned to see Miss. Cheerlie, and the others. "Everyone"! Apple Bloom shouted as she rushed over to the group. "What happened to you"?! Reiner Demanded "When I came out of the store you three we're gone. So I was going to head back to the train station to wait for you there". "We had decieded to go walking on a nature trail"? Twilight explained. "Why didn't you just wait for us"? asked Bertholdt "I'm sorry, but I didn't know what else to do"? Apple Bloom apolgoized. Reiner sighed. "Well I guess It's mostly our fault, I should have gone into the store to tell you that you we're going to have to wait for us". It was then they noticed Rayanana. "And who are"? asked Reiner. "My name's Rayana". Rayanana Replied. "Well, thanks for looking after Apple Bloom". Reiner said. "No problem, it was nice having somepony to talk to". Rayanana Stated. The group spent the next twenty minutes talking with Rayanana, and admiring the beauty of the park. Finally Miss Cheerlie stood up. "Well, children, the day is almost over, and it's aboutt time we headed back to the train station". Everyone stood up, Apple Bloom waved goodbye to Rayanan who had decieded to take a different path out of the park. The students and staff of Ponyville Junior High just made it to the park exit, when all of a sudden Apple Bloom was grabbed by Karen, and pulled back causing her to yelp. "Hey! Let go of me"! Apple Bloom exclaimed causing everyone to turn around and stare at Karen. "Hey let her go"! Twilight exclaimed. "NEVER! She's coming with me, and you'll never see her again". Karen cackled. That confused, and frightened Apple Bloom. "Why are you doing this"? she asked. Karen threw Apple Bloom to the ground, and began yelling. as Reiner, Twilight, and Bertholdt ran over to her. "Because your a little brat. You purposley Assaulted me, and lie about it. Not to mention all the things I've seen you do. The way you act, at school, how you assaulted that mare with apples. Oh and the way you sleep at night, and all the other things you do in your home". Karen exlcaimed. The whole class was shocked. "Oh my god. Murmmerd Twist. "I can't believe it". whispered Toola Roola. Karen smirked smuggly. "See that, now your classmates know what you really". She was intterupted by Twilight, who was staring daggers at her. "You've been stalkng her"? Twilight asked. Karen looked at her and chuckled. Yes, for severeal months. I've been watching this little brat". Karen admitted. That made Twilight livided. This woman had been creepily following Apple Bloom for many months, and was probably watching her do other things as well. Things Twilight didn't want to think of. "You. BITCH"! Twilight exclaimed as she lunged at Karen, only for Reiner, Bertholdt, and Cheerlie to hold her back. "Twilight don't it's not worth it"! Reiner exlcaimed as Twilight despertley tried to break herself free, and get to Karen. "ENOUGH"! A voice yelled out Everypony stopped, and turned around to see Smith standing with his pistol raised. "Everypony step back now". he demanded The students of Ponyville Junior high did as they were told, except for Apple Bloom, who was still on the ground, confused by the situation, and Karen, who ran up to Smith, and began putting on the victim charade "Oh officer thank goodness you're here, these little". Smith however cut her off. "Karen, you are under arrest for assualt, stalking, attempted kidnapping, lying to a police officer, and severel other charges. You're going away for a long time". Smith stated as he stepped infront of Apple Bloom to shield her from Karen. Karen's face turned from smug, to eranged. "No, no. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO"! She screamed as she lunged at Apple Bloom. In a quick reflex, Smith pulled out his gun, and shot Karen in the chest, killing her instantly, and shocking all the students and staff. "I need an medical team here stat". Smith called over his radio." He then turned to Apple Bloom who looked up at him. "Hey, I saw you at the store". Apple Bloom stated "Are you okay kid". Smith asked. Apple Bloom nodded "Yeah, I'm fine, just a little shook up, thank you". Smith smiled, and walked over to Cheerlie. "Listen, I think it's best if your students left. My team and I can handle things here. Smith stated, as he looked over at Karen's body". Cheerlie simply nodded and led the students back to the train station, though Apple Bloom did take one last glance at Karen. On the train ride back to ponyville, Apple Bloom was thinking about what happend, when someone spoke to her. "Um, Apple Bloom"? Apple Bloom turned around to see Sweetie Belle, and an orange pegagus standing next to her. "Oh hello Sweetie Belle, what can I do for you"? she asked. Sweetie Belle looked at Apple Bloom strigaht in the eyes and motioned to the pony next to her. "This is Scootaloo". Scootloo waved at Apple Bloom, who smiled at her. "Nice to meet ya". Apple Bloom replied. "Anyways". Scootaloo stated. "We have a propasistion for you". Apple Bloom looked at her in confusion, but urged Scootaloo to continue. "It's about your speech at Diamond Tiara's cute cenerea". Scootaloo said. Apple Bloom blushed in embarssement at the thought. "You two heard what I said at the cute cenera?" she gulped nervously thinking they were friends of Diamond Tiara, and were here to threathen her. But then Scootaloo spoke up. "Yes, and, well". She, and Sweetie Belle showed Apple Bloom their flanks, revealing that they didn't have their cutie marks either. "Wait, you two are blank flanks too"?! Scootaloo nodded. "We wanted to get to know you, so you could join are club, and we could get our cutie marks together". Scootaloo explained. "So, what do you say Apple Bloom, will you do it"? asked Sweetie Belle. A big smile formed on Apple Bloom's face. "You betcha"! she exclaimed as she pulled Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo into a big hug/ "Angel". Sweetie Belle said internially". "Goddess". Scootaloo said internially. Apple Bloom gave the two of them a big smile. "She's. So. Cute!" they both said in their thoughts. Back in Ponyville, Applejack was waiting at the station, when the train pulled up. Once it stopped, all the students got off, and Apple Bloom immeditedly went over to her sister. "Applejack"! Applejack smiled at Apple Bloom. "Hey there little sis, how was the trip"? Applejack asked. "It was amazing, and I made some new friends". Apple Bloom stated. "Well I'll be, that's incredible". Applejack replied. Apple Bloom smiled. "We're going to work hard to get our cutie marks"! "Really, well that's mighty fine, do you have a name for your little club"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom nodded. "We call ourselves". "THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS"! she, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all said together. The three fillies and Applejack all laughed, as Twilight resited her letter to the princess. Dear Princess Celestia, I'm happy to report that one of your youngest subjects Apple Bloom, has made some new friends. I believe she is going to achieve great things in her search for her cutie mark, but only time will tell. Until then I will keep you updated. Your faithful student Twilight Sparkle Reiner walked over to Twilight. "Today sure was tirining". he stated. Twilight nodded. "Yeah, I think I need to go home and take a nap". Twilight, and Reiner both laughed. Preview Applejack and Rainbow Dash's riviarly comes to a head during the anual running of the leaves. Leading to many problems for both of them. Next Episode. Fall Weather Friends. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Eren Yeager (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Carla Yeager (Flashback within a flashback) Dina Fritz (Flashback within a flashback) Apple Bloom Granny Smith Big Macintosh Applejack Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Mr Cake. Mrs. Cake Burnt Oak Mayor Mare Samatha Cheerliee Twilight Sparkle Diamond Tiara Silver Spoon Sweetie Belle Scootaloo Twist Snips Toola Roola Coconut Cream Snails Featherweight Rumble Petunia Paleo Shady Daze Rainy Feather Dinky Doo Cotton Cloudy Bright Macintosh (Flashback) Dr. Whooves (Flashback) Rainbow Dash (Flashback) Pinkie Pie (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Hange Zoe (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Hannes (Flashback) Moblit Berner (Flashback) Historia Reiss (Flashback) Marcel Galliard (Flashback) Karina Braun (Flashback) Minnuete Karen (Killed) Smith Ramsey Cali Rayana Pear Butter (Flashback) Episode 20: Fall Weather Friends: Gala arc Part 13It was a bright morning at Sweet Apple Acres. Rainbow Dash, and Applejack were in the middle of a horseshoe tossing compettion with Apple Bloom watching on. Dash was up first. She took a deep breath, reared up, and tossed the horseshoe. It landed a few feet away from the ring, but close enough for Rainbow to be proud. "Whoo-hoo"! She exclaimed exclaimed. "Hoo-wee! Not a bad pitch for a pony who works with her head in the clouds". Applejack smirked. "Oh yeah? Think you can do better"? Rainbow Dash scoffed. "I know I can". Applejack stated, her voice full of confindice. She took a deep breath, and tossed the horshoe, only for it to land behind Rainbow Dash's causing the pegagus to smirk. "Heh! Looks like this Pegasus can pitch better than the workhorse. The object of the game is to get the closest to the stake". Dash stated, causing Applejack to grumble, but the earth pony wasn't going to let that deter her. She turned to Apple Bloom, who was watching from the distance with a huge smile on her face. "I'm gonna win this for her Applejack thought to herself, before turning to face Rainbow Dash. "All right, all right. You got another throw there, pony girl". Rainbow Dash threw the horshoe, but this time it flew over the the stake, and land in some bushes. Now it was Applejack's turn to smirk. "Wow, Rainbow, heh. You couldn't hit a barn door with that kind of a throw"! She said sarcasticly, making Apple Bloom giggle. Applejack then picked up her last horseshoe, and tossed it. This time it landed right on the stake making Applejack the winner of the competiton. "Yee-haw! It's a ringer. That's how you do it down here on the farm". Applejack cheered as Rainbow Dash stared in shock. "I lost". The pegagus realized finally after a few seconds. "Ah, don't feel bad, Rainbow. It's all in good fun". AJ tried to reassure her. "I hate loosing". Dash simply muttered under her breath. Applejack however took no noticed, and simply walked of towards where Apple Bloom was waiting. "Besides, you're a mighty good athlete. I'm just better. Heh heh heh". Applejack teased. That caused Rainbow Dash to look up, and glare at Applejack. "What did you just say"? Dash asked with a hint of anger in her voice that Applejack noticed. "I said, I'm. A. Better. Athlete. Then. You!" she said in a way that made Rainbow Dash's blood boil. "I dare you to say that to my face". Rainbow Dash said indimdiling as she flew at AJ. "Glady"! Applejack retorted. Apple Bloom, noticing that things were getting heated, quickly put herself in the middle of the two older mares. "Please don't fight you two". Applejack sighed, and pulled back. "She's right Dash, we can't settle this by arguing with each other, so what do you propose we do." she asked. Rainbow Dash thought for a moment, then an idea flew into her head. "Well, you think you're the best athlete in all of ponyville right"? "I was actually going to say all of Equestria but that might be gildin' the lily". Applejack replied. "Right, and I think I'm the best. So insted of just fighting, how about we see who's the best". "What do you mean". asked Applejack. "I challange to an Iron Pony competition. A series of athletic contests to decide who's the best, once and for all". Rainbow Dash stated. Applejack thought for a moment, before decieding that she liked the idea very much. "You know what, Rainbow? You're on, but we need to set things up for the contest, and we're also going to need somepony to judge. Fourtently I happen to know two ponies who'd be great for the job". "Oh yeah? Who's that?" Rainbow Dash asked. Applejack turned to her little sister. "Apple Bloom, head into town, and fetch Twilight Sparkle, and Reiner Braun". Apple Bloom trotted into town, and headed for the golden oak libaray where see saw Twilight, Spike and Reiner talking. The little filly walked up to the three of them, and called out to them. "Ms. Twilight, Mr. Braun, Spike"! The three of them turned over to see Apple Bloom walking towards them. "Yes Apple Bloom, what do you need"? asked Reiner. "Can you three come to the farm please". Apple Bloom asked. This garnered confused looks from both them. "What for"? asked Twilight. "To be judges of course" Apple Bloom replied chipperly. This confused Twilight Spike, and Reiner even more, but curiosity got the better of them, and they decieded to go with Apple Bloom to see what she was talking about. Arriving at Sweet Apple Acres, the four of them saw Applejack, who was watching Rainbow Dash doing push ups. They walked over to AJ, who turned and smiled. "Hi Applejack, Apple Bloom says you needed us for something"? Twilight asked. Applejack nodded. "Yep". "And what is that exactly"? asked Reiner. "We're having an iron". Applejack began only for Dash to intterupt her. "An Iron Pony competition". Twilight, Spike, and Reiner looked at Dash in confuison. Seeing this, Apple Bloom spoke up. "They're trying to see who the most atheletic pony in all of ponyvile is, so they plan to have a serious of sports competitions". She explained. "Oh I get it. Iron Pony". Reiner realized. "Thank you Apple Bloom". Twilight smiled at the filly. "Hey I'm the one who told you what we we're doing"! Dash exclaimed in somewhat offense. "Like I said, thank you Apple Bloom". Twilight repeated, causing the filly to blush as Twilight, and Reiner turned to Applejack and Rainbow Dash. "And why are we here again". Asked Reiner. "To be our judges and keep score. Applejack explained. "That's right. Somepony's gotta record my awesomeness for the history books". Rainbow Dash stated A few minutes later, the contest was begining. "Hello everypony, and welcome to the first annual Iron Pony competition"! Spike announced, causing Twilight to look at him in confusion. "Spike? Who are you talking to?" she asked Spike, realzing no one was there began to panic. "Um... uh". Luckily for him, he noticed some ponies coming up to the farm. "Them"! he exclaimed as Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt Hoover walked up the path. "Let the games begin"! Spike exclaimed exciedtly as the mane 8 minus Twilight, and Reiner cheered. The first event was a race. Applejack, and Rainbow Dash had to run in between several barrels, and get to the end. Whoever got to the finish line in the least amount of time would be declared the winner. AJ was up first. "Ready. Set. Go"! Twilight exclamied. Applejack took off. For a while she was doing pretty well, but she ended up bumping one of the barrels before she crossed the finish line. "Dagnabbit". She muttered under her breath as the others walked over to her. "Time Spike". asked Reiner. "17 seconds". Spike replied. Applejack gasped in both shock, and delight. "You're kiddin'! That breaks my record from last year's rodeo." But her excitment didn't last long, as Spike continued. "But you got a five second penalty for nudging the barrel". Applejack sighed. "Nuts, and Chews"! she cursed, but quickly composed herself. "Still, that's twenty-two seconds. Not too shabby". Applejack turned to Rainbow Dash, who seemed to be a little nervous. "Hey, don't be nervous. Remember, it's all in good fun. Now git on up there". Rainbow Dash walked up to the starting line. "Ready. Set. Go!" Twilight exclaimed again. Rainbow Dash ran in between the barrels, however unlike Applejack, Dash didn't hit a singal one, and made it across the finish line. "Woo! That was some fancy hoofwork there, Rainbow!" Aj complemented. "Thanks, but I couldn't have been as fast as you". Dash replied. Applejack turned to Spike to see how long it took for Rainbow Dash to get to the other side. "What's the time Spike". Spike looked at the clock, and gasped. "18 seconds"! he exclaimed. Both Applejack, and Rainbow Dash gasped in shock, as the farm pony turned to Rainbow Dash with a smile on her face. "18 seconds. Rainbow, are you sure you're not secretly a rodeo pony? Applejack asked. "Rainbow Dash wins the barrel lead!" Reiner stated. "Oh, I can't believe I won". Rainbow Dash stated in total suprise. "Yeah, well, don't you go gettin' used to it". Applejack reminded her. The next compettion was to see who could buck a high striker harder, more ponies had come down to watch the contest. This time Dash was up first, she kicked the thing, and the bell rang. Everypony cheered as Rainbow did a little victory dance before going over to AJ who was resting under a tree. "Mighty respectable". Applejack smirked before getting up. "But let me show you how it's really done". She stated. Applejack walked up to the high striker, and bucked it so hard that the bell shot off, and part of it broke. Everypony cheered as Rainbow Dash looked on in complete shock. Next, both Applejack and Rainbow Dash had to try and buck Spike off of their backs. Spike however wasn't too thrilled about this. "Why me". he mutterd. "GO"! Twilight called out, and Applejack began. "Whoa! Whoa! Whoa-hoa! Whoa! Spike yelled out, before he was finally bucked off. "Whoaaa"! He landed in a stack of hey "Ouch ". he groaned, but no time to relax, as Rainbow Dash had been waiting in the stack. "Ready for another pony ride"? she asked. "No". Spike muttered, but it was too late. "GO"! Twilight exclaimed. Rainbow Dash began moving really fast, much faster then Applejack "Guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh". Finally Spike was launched off. "Guhwhoaaaaaa!" "Rainbow Dash wins the bronco buck"! Reiner stated. "And I loose". Spike gronaed. The next event was a lasso compettion, with the goal being to lasso Spike, who was none too please with the situation he had been put in. Eventually he was lassoed by Applejack "How did I get roped into this". Spike asked bitterly. The audiance then turned to Rainbow Dash who had manged to tie herself up in a tree. "Does this count"? she asked before falling out of the tree. Spike meanwhile was untied by Apple Bloom, who looked at him with concern as the small dragon vented "I can't believe they're using me as their little guinea pig to win this contest"! he ranted. Apple Bloom gave him a small smile. "Hey don't feel so bummed Spike, you're being a really big help". she told him. Spike looked up at Apple Bloom, her amber eyes sparkling as she smiled at him, he smiled back knowing she was right. With that he walked off to help out however he could. The next competition was to see who could balance, and bounce more balls. Rainbow Dash won that one. After that it was tossing hay bales. Winner, Applejack. Hoof wrestling. Winner, Rainbow Dash. Bucking a football. Winner, Applejack Finally the contest made it to the halfway point as Spike continued to announce to the crowd. "Fillies and gentlecolts, at the halfway point, our competitors are tied at five and five". "Who are you talking too"? Twilight asked in confusion. "Them"! Spike replied as Twilight looked up and noticed the crowd. Next they we're doing push ups, with Twilight Counting. "Ninety-five, ninety-six, ninety-seven, ninety-eight, ninety-nine..." Applejack was forced to stop. "A hundred"! Twilight counted for Rainbow Dash. "Yes"! Dash cheered. "Be a good sport Applejack". The farm pony mumbled. Next was a long jump. First was Applejack who manged to jump pretty far. Now it was Rainbow Dash's turn. She ran forward and leaped, however when she saw that she was about to loose, she used her wings to cheat, and win the contest, however Applejack was the only one who noticed, but she decieded not to say anything. Next they had to walk baby chicks on their backs across some mud in order to get them to their mothers. The chicks that were on Applejack were getting pretty muddy, so they decieded to go over to Rainbow Dash, who once again, was using her wings to shield the chicks from the mud. This frustrated Applejack, but she tried to not let it show. Finally they we're at the finally event, a tug of war. Twilight stood in the middle of the two. "All right, you two. This is the final event. Give it all you've got." she told them. Rainbow Dash, and Applejack both started pulling and tugging as hard as they could, and it seemed like Applejack was going to win. "Looks like the workhorse might come out ahead in this one." Spike stated. That was until Rainbow Dash used her wings to fly up in the sky, liffting Applejack off the ground. "That's not fair. You can't use your wings to help you win"! Applejack protested. Rainbow Dash however pretented that she couldn't understand Applejack. "What was that"? she asked. "You're cheatin"! Applejack accused. "I can't understand you with that rope in your mouth"! Stated. That caused Applejack to open let go of the rope so that Dash could "Understand her". "I said"! But AJ stopped once she realized her error. "Uh oh". Applejack fell, landing in the mud with a loud splash. "Rainbow in the meantime cheered. " Whoo-hoo! I win by a landslide...". Apple Bloom trotted up to Applejack and helped her out of the mud, just a Rainbow Dash flew down to them. "Heh, or mudslide in your case". she sneered before flying up into the air. "I am the Iron Pony". Rainbow Dash declared. "Only cause you cheated". Applejack stated causing Rainbow Dash to look at her. "What"? She asked, venom in her voice as she got into Applejack's face. "You used your wingpower to help you win over half those contests"! Applejack stated. "Sounds like sour apples to me". Dash retorted. "Are you sayin' you didn't use your wings?" Applejack asked. "Welll... no. But you never said I couldn't use my wings. Rainbow Dash defeneded. "I didn't think I needed to tell you to play fair". Applejack argued. Things were beginning to get out of hoof, so Twilight, Reiner, and Apple Bloom got in between the two of them "Both of you stop right now"! Reiner scolded. "Yeah there's no need for this". Twilight repremanded. "She used her wings to cheat"! Applejack accused. "You never said that I couldn't"! Rainbow Dash retorted. Apple Bloom looked up at her big sister. "Rainbow Dash is right Applejack, you never said she couldn't use her wings". "See even your little sister agrees with"! Rainbow Dash stated. This however caused Apple Bloom to turn to her. "But still Dash, you should have known better then to use them to cheat". Apple Bloom stated sternly. "I... uh". Rainbow Dash stuttered as Apple Bloom raised her eyebrow at her. "Well I still would have won without my wings"! Rainbow Dash stated. That caused Applejack to chuckle. "Hah! Prove it". "Gladly"! Rainbow Dash replied. "How"? she asked after not knowing what to do exactaly. Applejack smiled. "Tomorrow is the annual Runnin' of the Leaves. I challenge you to race me in it" Applejack stated. Rainbow Dash just smirked. "Heh! Easy shmeasy". She replied. "Hold on! There is one condition: the point is to run, so no wings allowed". Applejack reminded. Rainbow Dash thought for a momment before replying. "No wings? No problem." The two of the bumped hooves, agreeing to the condtitions of the race. Currently Pubilcly Avalablie Information Running of the Leaves. An anual race taking place in ponyville. Ponies run through a large forest of trees. The objective of the race is not to get to the finish line first, it's to knock down all the leaves off of the trees. The next morning rolled in at Sweet Apple Acres, as Applejack slept in her bed, but she soon heard a voice calling her name. "Applejack. Applejack"! Applejack groaned. "Eh five more minutes". she mutterd as she pulled the covers over her, only for them to be yanked off. That caused Applejack to shoot awake. She looked around and saw Apple Bloom standing at the sighed of her bed with a very stern look on her face. "Come on, you need to get up if you're going to make it to the running of the leaves". Apple Bloom reminded. Applejack's eyes widened in horror. "Oh my god you're right! I almost forgot"! she exclaimed as she got out of bed, and rushed towards the door. "Breakfast is on the table. I worked very hard on it so you'd better eat it". Apple Bloom called out. Applejack turned to her little sister. "Apple Bloom, I really appriecate that but". Apple Bloom intterupted her, "No buts! You won't be able to run on an empty stomach". "Apple Bloom please". Applejack began, but stopped as soon as she saw Apple Bloom glaring at he. "You know what, I am feeling a might hungry, so I think I'll uh....... Go have some breakfeast yeah"! Applejack stated as she rushed downstairs. Apple Bloom simply smiled and started to make Applejack's bed. Meanwhile at the Golden Oak Library Twilight and Spike walked out of the treehouse, on the way to the starting line. Twilight however stopped briefly to look at a butterfly. This frustrated Spike. "Twilight, hurry up, we're gonna be late for the race"! He complained. This made Twilight look up at him in confusion, "Why are you so excited about the race? It's only for ponies"? "Yeah, but I'm hoping I can be the announcer again. Just listen: fillies and gentlecolts, welcome to the annual Running of the--" Spike began, until. " Welcome to the annual Running of the Leaves! This is Pinkie Pie, your official p-eye-in-the-sky announcer"! Spike and Twilight looked up to see that Pinkie Pie was already up in a hot air ballon doing the annoucing. Spike looked down in dissapointment as Twilight tried to comfort him. " Sorry, Spike. I guess that job's already taken." Meanwhile Pinkie Pie continued "As everypony knows, the Running is a very important tradition, for without it, the autumn leaves of Equestria would never fall. So get ready, ponies. The Running of the Leaves will begin in five minutes." Twilight made her way to the starting line. As she walked up she spotted Bertholdt and Reiner, also heading up to the starting line. "Hey you guys"! Twilight called out. The two stallions turned around and smiled at Twilight. "Ah Twilight. I figured you'd be here". Reiner stated. Twilight giggled. "So are you two racing two"? She asked. "That's right, we wouldn't miss this for the world". Bertholdt replied. Twilight smiled, and the three of the made their way to the starting line. Applejack was already there, doing some last minute stretches. She also had Apple Bloom to thank, her little sister had been right, now that she had a full stomach, Applejack was more then ready to win the race. She kept stretching until Rainbow Dash came strutting in. "Pardon me, excuse me. Make way for the Iron Pony". "The Iron Phony, you mean". Applejack muttered as Rainbow Dash walked up to her. "So, Applejack, you ready to win second place"? Dash taunted. "I'm ready to run a good, clean race." Applejack replied. "Yeah, yeah..." Dash muttered not caring in the slightest. "You are not allowed to use your wings." Applejack reminded her. Rainbow Dash simply scoffed. "I could win this race with both wings tied behind my back." That gave Applejack an idea. She then quite litterley tied Rainbow Dash's wings behind her back. "Trussed up like a turkey. Well, a turkey who can't fly, that is." AJ Smirked. "Very funny". Dash grumbled "Least now we know we're racin' fair and square." Applejack stated just as Pinkie Pie started annoucing again. "Racers! Please take your positions!" Then Spike walked up to her. "Um... Pinkie Pie?" "Hey, Spike! What's up?" She asked, but then she realized that it was her. "Oh wait, it's me, I'm up". She laughed. Spike then contiuned. "Uh, yeah. I know you're doing the announcing today and stuff and... I'm sure you're gonna do a great job and all, but... I was just wondering..." "What"? Pinkie Pie asked. Spike realizing it was pointless just sighed. "Aw forget it". he said as he began walking away. Pinkie Pie however was able to realize what Spike wanted. "Spike, would you like to be my co-reporter? We could comment on the action together." Pinkie Pie told him "We could"? Spike asked excitedly. Pinkie Pie just through down the ladder to the hot air baloon, which Spike happily climbed. Back at the starting line, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash we're both complety shocked seeing Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt also at the starting line. "Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt? What in sam hell are you three doing up here"? AJ aksed. "We're racing". Twilight replied. This made Rainbow Dash burst out laughing. "Good one, Twilight." "We're not joking". Reiner replied Now Dash was shocked. "What? But Twilight's not an athlete she's an egghead, and Bertholdt isn't really that strong of a flyer. Infact the only one of you I can see having a chance in this race is you Reiner". Rainbow Dash replied. The egghead response got on Twilight's nerves. " I am not an egghead, I am well-read." She defeneded. "Egghead". Dash whispered to AJ, who chuckled "But have you three ever run a race"? The farm pony asked them. "Both Reiner and I have". Bertholdt Replied. "What about you Twilight". Applejack asked. "Well, no, but I do know a lot about running". Twilight replied. "And you know this from..." Rainbow Dash asked, already knowing the answer to her question. "Books. I've read several on the subject". Twilight replied. This once again made Dash laugh. "What'd you read, "The Egghead's Guide to Running"? Did you stretch out your eye muscles to warm up? Get it? Eye muscles. Twilight just rolled her eyes "Scoff if you must, Rainbow. But the Running of the Leaves is a Ponyville tradition, and since I'm here to learn, I've decided I should experience it myself". she stated. Applejack smiled at the three of them. "Well, I think that's just dandy, Twilight. Good luck. Same too Reiner, and Bertholdt". she stated, before snickering as well. Dash just snickered. "Yeah. See you three at the finish line... tomorrow". The racers all walked up to the starting line. Pinkie Pie and Spike were just about to give the go ahead, when all of a sudden, a voice stopped them. "You guys!" Twilight, Reiner, Spike, Bertholdt, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash, along with the other ponies present turned to see Apple Bloom happily running towards, wearing a cheerleading outfitt, and had a huge smile on her face. Her eyes, hair, as well as the surrounding area seemed to sparkle as she arrived. "Sorry I'm late took me a while to get change". She's, so cute". Twilight, Pinkie, Spike, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash all thought. Sweetie Belle then appeared next to Apple Bloom, also in a cheerleading outfitt, and smiling too. "This was a great idea Apple Bloom". Sweetie Belle stated. Then the voice of Scootaloo spoke up from a distance. Like the other two, she had a cheerleading outfitt on, but unlike the other two, she wasn't smiling at looke rather uncomfortble. "Um, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle. I think I wanna go home and change". She stated. Apple Bloom just smiled, and walked behind Scootaloo. "Don't be that way, it's normal to feel self conscious. You'll get over it, besides think about it, cheerleading cutie marks would be perfect". She stated as she gentley pushed Scootaloo forward. "Look I'm telling you I can hardly breath in this damn thing". Scootaloo protested, as Apple Bloom turned to face the runners. The little earth pony then throw her hooves and pompoms up. "Alright everypony get on out there and welcome the autumm season!" She cheered happily. "YEAH! LETS DO THIS! Shouted a random stalion. Pinkie Pie, and Spike saw that as their cues. "All right, ponies, are you ready?" Pinkie Pie started. "Get set". Spike finished. "GO"! They both shouted as a bell rang, and the runners started running. "And they're off! Welcome to the official coverage of the Running of the Leaves!" Pinkie Pie stated before turning to Spike. "Why, yes, Pinkie, it's the running of the ponies that causes the leaves to fall." Spike replied. Pinkie Pie scoffed. " Ugh. Those lazy, lazy leaves. But this year, the run is about more than the weather. It's about the race to the finish and the two runners who want to win it: Applejack and Rainbow Dash". Spike nodded. "You know, Pinkie, these two ponies have a bit of a grudge match they're trying to settle. Trying to prove who's the most athletic.". "Yes, and Grudge rhymes with Fudge". Pinkie Pie nodded in agreement. "Yes, it... does. What?" Spike asked in confusion. Pinkie paid his confuison no mind and just continued on. "And I like fudge. But if I eat too much fudge I get a pudge and then I can't budge." "So... no fudge"? Spike asked. "Oh, no thanks I had a big breakfest". Pinkie Replied before looking back down at the race. "Let's check in with our two competitive ponies, Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Having come fast out of the gate, Applejack and Rainbow Dash are evenly matched running neck and neck." Pinkie Pie stated, until Applejack pushed head. "But what's this? Applejack is making a move, she's now ahead by a nose." Pinkie said. Then Rainbow Dash pulled ahead as Pinkie Pie kept commentating on the event. "But Rainbow Dash won't let Applejack have it and takes the lead. She's ahead by half a nose. Or maybe three quarters of a nose. No, about sixty-three point seven percent of a nose... roughly speaking". Again Applejack pushed past Rainbow Dash. "Applejack sees this move and pushes forth with her strong workhorse legs slinking ahead by three hundred and fifty noses"! Applejack turned to Rainbow Dash with a smug look on her face. "Not so easy without wings, is it"? She snickered before running ahead of Dash again. Rainbow Dash grimiced. "Come on Rainbow, show 'em a little dash". She murmmered before rushing forward. " Ho-hold your horses, Pinkie! Rainbow Dash is catching up the frontrunner Applejack!" Spike pointed out. "What an upset! I thought Applejack had this in the bag". Pinkie Pie stated. Rainbow Dash with all her might then ran past Applejack. "You didn't think I was gonna let you off that easily, did you?" Dash taunted as she raced past Applejack. Applejack, not wanting to let Dash win, starting running so fast, and hard that she didn't see the rock in her way. Applejack tripped over the rock, and landed with a hard thud. Her trip up allowed for all the racers to rush past her. Applejack stood up, having not seen the rock she thought Rainbow Dash had tripped her. "I don't believe it". she exclaimed, just as Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt walked up. "I know, beautiful isn't it". Twilight stated admiring the surronding area. "Not the scenery, Twilight. Rainbow Dash just tripped me". Applejack said acussingly. "No she didn't" Reiner argured. "Yes she did". Applejack argued back. "She did not"! Twilight stated. "She did too"! Applejack repeated. "Rainbow Dash did not trip you Applejack, if you had been paying attetion like the three of us, you would have seen you tripped over a rock. Reiner Stated. Applejack looked over and saw that they were right. "What? Oh, hayseed! Now I got a lot of ground to make up to catch Rainbow". She pointed out. They then heard the voice of Apple Bloom from up the hill. "Applejack! Fight on!" Apple Bloom cheered. "Yay"! Repiled Sweetie Belle. "Yeah, what they said". Stated Scootaloo less enthusacitly. Applejack ran off after the CMCs cheers in order to catch Rainbow Dash. "Be careful". Bertholdt called out as he Twilight, and Reiner continued walking. The colors of the leaves caused Twilight to smile at how pretty it was. "Isn't it wonderful you guys". She asked Reiner and Bertholdt. Reiner chuckled at Twilight excitement. "It sure is something". He responded. Twilight turned around and stared up at the leaves on the trees. She then began to sing. Look at the colors of the trees, and of the leaves on the ground. It's the autumm season and we're here to welcome it. Back near the starting line, Apple Bloom started Singing too. The weather is getting colder, and soon the days will be shorter, but this season has more meaning then just colors and trees. Soon they were both singing. There's tasty treats, and fun festivels, dressing up for nightmare night, Pumpkin Pie and Cider too, cause that's what autumm means to me. Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh [Apple Bloom] That's what autumm means to me. [Both] Woah Oh Oh Oh Woh Oh Oh Oh [Twilight Sparkle] That's what autumm means to me. Then Reiner began singing. A season like no other, can one really complain. Celebrations all around and fabulaos colors in the air. Followed by Pinkie Pie. And all around us ponies having fun, partying throughout the lands, to bring about this new season. Then Sweetie Belle. Fall is such a beautiful time of year, all the colors they dance in the sky. After that it was Scootaloo. Red, orange, and yellow. Mixing together in perfect harmony. Now it was both of them We love this time of year. Where friendships, and familes grow. and Everypony has a smile on their faces, cause that's what autumm means to me. [Spike] A time for tasty food, and hoofball games, a good time to spend with friends. [Bertholdt Hoover] Colors in the sky, make this season so grand. [All] Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me. [Reiner Braun] Sometimes there are moments when you feel alone. [Spike] But no matter what your friends are always there. [All] When you need a helping hoof. [Apple Bloom] Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me. [All] Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me. Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me. Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me. Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh. [Twilight Sparkle] That's what autumm means to me. Back near the front of the race, Rainbow Dash kept running, when all of a sudden she was shocked when Applejack rushed past her. "See you at the finish line"! Applejack taunted. From above in their baloon Spike and Pinkie Pie both looked on in shock as Applejack made it back into first place. "I don't believe it. After a huge setback, Applejack is back at the front of the pack". Spike exclaimed excitedly. "She's the head of the pack, all right. The pick of the litter! The cat's pajamas"! Pinkie Pie stated, but then she stopped and started to go off topic. "Oh wait, why would Applejack take some poor kitty's PJs? That's not very sporting of her". Pinkie pointed out. "Oookay... let's get back to the race." Spike said. Back on the ground, Rainbow Dash had caught up with Applejack. " Not so fast, Applejack! This race isn't over yet!" "It is for you! Heh!" Applejack stated as she pushed on ahead. Rainbow Dash began to speed up, there was no way she was going to let Applejack win this race. Rainbow Dash was going to prove to everyone that the most athlectic pony in ponyville, no in all of Equestria was her. However Rainbow Dash's ego clouded her vision so much that she failed to spot the the tree stump in the middle of the ground causing her trip much like how Applejack did a while back. This little mishap allowed for all the other racers to pass her putting the pegagus in last place. Rainbow Dash got up, and scowled angrily. "Guh, I don't believe it, Applejack tripped me." She accused, before hearing Twilight's voice call out to her. "Don't you ponies ever look where you're going? You tripped on a stump. See"? Twilight stated. Rainbow Dash turned to face, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt. "Oh, I see. A big cheater is what I see." Dash stated, clearly not believing what Twilight had said. "Rainbow, Applejack would never cheat. It was just an accident." Reiner said. "Sure it was". Dash replied sarcasticlay, but quickly correct herself when she saw the looks on their faces. "I mean, yeah, I'm sure it was.". That at least made Twilight smile. "Remember Rainbow, it's just a game". she pointed out, as she Reiner, and Bertholdt trotted off leaving Rainbow Dash. As soon as they were gone, Rainbow Dash smirked. "Yes, but the rules have changed, and two can play at that game". She murmmerd to herself. At the finish line, The CMCs were still cheerleading. "Fight On!" Apple Bloom cheered. "Yeah"! Cheered Sweetie Belle. "Um, Right". Scootaloo said, still slightly embarrased. Rainbow Dash eventually made it back to the start of the race, and was nearly catching up to Applejack. "Welcome back, Ponyvillians, it's me, Pinkie Pie." repiled the party pony. "And Spike. Looks like Rainbow is doing her best to catch up". Spike responded. This caused the pink earth pony to look at him in confusion. "I'm not sure how ketchup is going to help her in this contest. Now, in a hot dog eating contest it can make them doggies nice and slippery, but personally, I prefer mustard. How about you, Spike?" She asked. "Uh... I... like... pickles?" he replied unsurly. back on the ground, Rainbow Dash was beginning to pass Applejack, which Pinkie Pie took notice of. "Aaand it looks like Applejack has found herself in quite a pickle as Rainbow overtakes her". "Look ma, no wings". Dash taunted smugly as the two of them headed for a patch of woods. "As the racers enter Equestria's Whitetail Wood, Rainbow Dash is back in the lead." Spike stated. As the two of them raced, Rainbow Dash spotted a low hanging branch. Seeing that, caused a lightbulb to go off in her head. As she ran towards the branch, she grabbed it in her mouth, and pulled. The branch then swung back, and struck Applejack right in the face, knocking her back. She got up, and scowled at the pegagus pony. "Ugh. Hey, Rainbow!" AJ scolded. Rainbow Dash only spat at Applejack in response. That was when Applejack realized that what happened wasn't an accident. "Why, that little cheater did that on purpose." AJ then got an idea, if Rainbow Dash was going to cheat, then Applejack would cheat too. "It's on". she snickered evily. Applejack then used the branch herself to fling herself forward. Up ahead, Rainbow Dash smirked at her plan. "Nice one Rainbow Dash". she mutteterd to herself, only to be caught by suprise when Applejack zipped passed her. "Later"! The earth pony exclaimed. Now Applejack was back in the lead, she smiled to herself, before noticing one of the trees had a behive hanging from one of it's branches. Applejack went behind the tree, and kicked it. That action caused the hive of bees to fall right near Rainbow Dash, who ran for her life with the angry insects in hot pursuit. Rainbow Dash dove behind a bush, and manged to outsmart the bees. Once she was in the clear, Rainbow Dash took noticed of the sign that pointed in the direction the go. She snickered as she got an idea. She switched the sign so the arrow pointed up the moutain. Applejack fell for the trick, and ran up the mountain. Seeing Applejack fall for her trick made Rainbow Dash laugh and hug the sign. Unfourtenlty she didn't notice the other racers passing her. All of a sudden, Rainbow Dash heard Twilight's voice. "Oh my, Whitetail Wood is just lovely." Rainbow Dash turned around, and saw Reiner, Twilight, and Bertholdt heading her way. She quickly changed the sign back to the way it was, just as they arrived. "Hey Rainbow Dash. Shouldn't you be up front"? asked Reiner. "I'm sure I'll win now". Rainbow Dash snickered. "Except the other racers just passed you". Bertholdt pointed out. "Oh horse apples"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she sped off. Meanwhile, Applejack ran up the mountain, but ended up finding herself at the edge of a cliff. She looked around in confusion, before hearing Pinkie Pie's voice. "Applejack, what are you doing up here?" Pinkie Pie asked, as she and Spike floated towards Applejack. "There aren't even any trees up here". Spike replied. "I know, but the signs pointed this way". Applejack stated before realizing what happened. "Rainbow". she muttered angrily. She then looked up at Spike and Pinkie. "Mind giving me a lift"? she asked. So Pinkie Pie, and Spike let Applejack ride on the rope that was under the basket, and flew her back to the front of the line where Rainbow Dash was. The cyan pegagus looked up in shock and anger as Applejack jumped infront of her. "What the hay?! You said no flying!" Dash complained. "No I said no wings". AJ replied as she ran ahead. Meanwhile, Pinkie Pie, and Spike were still narrating. "I must say, Spike, that this has been the most interesting Running of the Leaves in Equestria history!" Pinkie Pie stated. "With the most interesting announcing". Spike mummbled to himself. "But it isn't the running that's been fascinating. It's the lack of running!" Pinkie Pie stated. Applejack then kicked down a bucket of sap causing Rainbow Dash to get stuck. Rainbow Dash pulled and struggled to get free, eventually she manged to fling herself far back, and zip towards Applejack. The speed that Rainbow Dash was going caused Applejack to spin into a small twister which eventually caught Rainbow Dash as well. Both of them spun out off the track, and up a small cliff before stopping on a ledge. The two of them glared at each other, but their weight was too much for the ledge to support, and it broke, causing both of them slide down the mountain, and land infront of Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt. "Forgive me, girls. I know I'm not an athlete, but shouldn't the Running of the Leaves actually involve running?" Twilight asked, as she and the two stalions trotted off. Rainbow Dash looked at Applejack and sighed. "You know, I think Twilight's right". "You do"? asked Applejack. Rainbow Dash nodded. "Yeah! If you wanna beat me, you better... RUUUN!" (Attack on Titan Plays) With that, Rainbow Dash sprinted off with Applejack chasing after her. Eventually the two of them were neck and neck, while Pinkie Pie, and Spike kept commentating. "Once again, Rainbow Dash and Applejack are neck and neck, jockeying for position. Applejack inches ahead, now it's Rainbow, it's Applejack, it's Rainbow Dash, it's Applejack..." Pinkie Pie narrated. Applejack, and Rainbow Dash saw they were nearing the finish line, that was Rainbow Dash decieded to play even more dirty, and bumped Applejack. "Oh no, she di'int!" Said Spike. Applejack then bumped Rainbow Dash back. "Oh yes, she di'id". Pinkie Pie replied. The two of them kept shoving each other. "Cut it out". Applejack demaneded, "No, you cut it out"! Rainbow Dash responded. "You started it"! Applejack pointed out. "And now I'm gonna finish it". Dash replied. "Oh no, you won't"! Applejack stated as she bit Rainbow Dash's tail, and yanked her back. "Oh yes, I will". Rainbow Dash said before doing the same thing to Applejack. Applejack then tried to bite Rainbow Dash's tail again, however she only manged to pull off the rope she had tied around Rainbow Dash's wings. Realizing she was free Rainbow Dash decieded that she was done playing fair. She was going to win even if she did it by cheating. "That's it! All bets are off!" Dash stated as she took to the sky. Applejack, also having enough jumped up after her. "Oh no you don't"! she exclaimed. Applejack and Rainbow Dash were now no longer running, they were rolling in a dust cloud, and fighting to the finish line, while Pinkie Pie kept narrating. "It's Applejack, it's Rainbow Dash, it's Applejack, it's Rainbow Dash--" The two of them crossed the finish line, and got up from their fight. "I won"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed happily. "No I won"! Applejack argued. "I won"! Rainbow Dash retorted. "You tied". Spike called out from the baloon. Rainbow Dash and Applejack looked up in confusion. "Tied?!" They exclaimed in shock. "For first"? asked AJ. "For last". Pinkie replied shocking both Rainbow Dash, and Applejack. "Last"?! They exclaimed in shock again. "Then who won"? That was when Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt came forward, shocking both Applejack, and Rainbow Dash. "You"?! They said in shock. Twilight smiled and shook her head. "Oh no, but I did get fifth place, Bertholdt got third, and Reiner got second. Also fifth place is rather good considering I've never run a race before". Twilight stated. That only confused Dash, and AJ more. "What? How's that even possible?" Applejack stated. "You three ran so slow, and looked at the scenery. Rainbow Dash replied. "Exactly, we paced ourselves". Reiner replied. "Then at the end, when all the other ponies were worn out, we sprinted to the finish." Bertholdt Replied. Rainbow Dash's mouth was a gap "I don't believe it. Twilight, Bertholdt, and Reiner beat us. "Well, with all your horsing around, it was quite easy". Twilight stated just as the CMCs came up to them. "Exactly, you two kept on fightin and cheating that it cost both of you the race". Apple Bloom stated Applejack sighed knowing they we're all right. "You guys are right Our behavior was just terrible". "We weren't very good sports". Rainbow Dash replied. Applejack then looked at her little sister. "And Apple Bloom, I feel so ashamed. As your big sister I'm suppose to teach you not the cheat, but instead I cheated, just because I wanted to prove a point. Can you ever forgive me"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom smiled at Applejack. "Of course". she exclaimed happily. "Sounds to me that an important lesson was learned." A voice said. Everyone turned to see Princess Celestia heading towards them. "Princess Celestia". Both Applejack and Rainbow Dash said in shock, before bowing. "W-What are you doin' here?" Applejack asked. "Fall is one of my favorite seasons, so I came to celebrate the Running of the Leaves." Celestia explained. "I'm sorry you had to see us being such poor sports, Princess". Applejack Apologzied. "That's all right, Applejack. Anypony can get swept up in the excitement of competition". Celestia reassured. "It's important to remember that the friendship is always more important than the competition. Twilight stated. "Exactly, Twilight." Celestia agreed before facing Applejack and Rainbow Dash. "Now, unfortunately, because the two of you were busy tricking each other instead of shaking down leaves, many of the lovely trees of Equestria are still covered". She stated. Applejack looked up at the princess with a smile on her face. "Why, Princess, I bet we can knock those leaves down for you lickety-split." she stated before turning to Rainbow Dash. "Whaddya say, friend? Wanna go for another run"? she asked. Rainbow Dash smiled. "I'd love to stretch my legs". she replied. With that, the two of them started running again. This time together, side by side as friends. Just like they should have been doing from the very beginning. Preview. The day of the Grand Galloping Gala is getting closer, and Rarity deciedes to make dresses for her friends, but when Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy all want their dresses to be a certain way, Rarity finds that meeting their expectations will be more difficult then she thought. Next Episode. Sutied for Success. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Rainbow Dash Applejack Apple Bloom Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Spike Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Bertholdt Hoover Rarity Granny Smith Big Macintosh Angel Bunny Berry Punch Sweetie Drops Cherry Berry Daisy Derpy Hooves Shoeshine Minuette Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Belle Scootaloo Lemon Hearts Twinkleshine Amethyst Star Princess Celestia Episode 21: Sutied for Success: Gala arc Part 14Carosuel Boutique. Ponyville's resident clothing store, also the home of the fashion designer Rarity who at the moment was looking over a drawing of a dress she was working on. The dress happened to be the one she planned on wearing to the Grand Galloping Gala. "Oh, Opalescence. Can't you just picture it? Moi, stepping out in a stunning new gown at the Grand Galloping Gala in Canterlot"! She said to her pet cat, who mearly Meowed in response. "Why, yes! I did make it myself. Thank you so much for asking". Rarity replied, as if thinking Opal actually cared. She didn't by the way, but Rarity of course couldn't understand what her pet cat was saying, after all, talking to animals was Fluttershy's thing. So Rarity simply spoke to Opal like she would listen to her. "Oh, Opal, of course you can help me. Thank you". Rarity stated, as she placed Opal on a table, and stuck a piece of yarn in her mouth. Opal just spat it out, and groaned. "What's that? You want to help me more? Oh, aren't you the sweetest thing"? Rarity asked as she made Opal hold on to more stuff, while she finished seawing the dress, much to the cat's dismay. Rarity was busy working on the dress, when she heard a knock at the door. It opened and in Applejack, and Twilight Sparkle. "Howdy, Rarity!" Applejack called out. When Rarity didn't answer Twilight looked over, and saw that she was busy working on something. "Shh... can't you see Rarity is trying to concentrate"? She said to Applejack, who proceeded to look over. "What do you think she's makin'?" Asked Applejack. "Looks like a dress". Twilight replied. "Well, that makes sense. Since this is a dressmaker's shop and all". Applejack stated. Rarity could hear them talking, and it was breaking her concentration. "Is there something I can help you with"? she asked the two of them. "Oh, so very sorry to trouble you, Rarity, but I need a quick favor. Could you please fix the button for me? It's my dress for the Grand Galloping Gala". Twilight replied showing Rarity a red dress she had planned on wearing. Rarity looked at it, and gasped at it. "Oh, no, no, no! You can't wear this... old thing. You need a glamorous new outfit for the Gala and I'll make it for you. No problem at all. It will be my pleasure!" Rarity stated. "Oh, that's really sweet of you to offer, Rarity, but I can't let you do that. It would be so much work. This dress is fine. Twilight replied. "Twilight Sparkle. I insist on making you a new dress". Rarity repeated. "But"! Twilight said trying to protest, only for Rarity to intterupt her. "Not another word! I won't take no for an answer". Twilight, knowing full well that Rarity wasn't going to back down, just sighed, and agreed to Rarity's offer. "Well, in that case... thank you for your generosity, Rarity. Knowing your handiwork, I'm sure it will be absolutely beautiful". Twilight stated. Rarity then turned to Applejack, and frowned. "Let me guess, Applejack. You don't want a new gown either". Applejack was taking off guard by Rarity's statment. "Gown? Shoot. I was just gonna wear my old work duds". She replied. "Rarity stared at AJ in shock. "You can't possibly be serious, Applejack! You absolutely must wear formal attire". Rarity insited. Applejack thought for a moment. "Hm... nah." she stated. "What if I just spruce up your... duds for you a little bit?" Rarity asked. Applejack thought for a moment. "Um... okay, sure, why not? Since you're up for it and all. Just don't make them too... frou-frou-y." She stated. "Deal". Rarity agreed. All of a sudden they all heard a voice from above. "Look out below!" Rainbow Dash came crashing in through the ceiling. "Sorry. New trick. Didn't quite work." she apologized. "Hmm" Rarity murmmered as she stared at Rainbow Dash before gasping. "Idea! I'll make you an outfit for the Gala too, Rainbow Dash". "Outfit for the what now?" Rainbow Dash asked in confusion as Rarity continued. "I'll make one for you and you and all of you. Oh! And of course Pinkie and Fluttershy too. Oh, and suits for Bertholdt and Reiner. Oh, and when I'm done, we can hold our very own fashion show! Rarity stated. "What a great idea! If you're sure you can handle it." Twilight said. Rarity looked at her, and Smiled. "Oh, it'll be a little bit of work, but it will be a wonderful boost for my business. Plus, fun!". She insisted. "Oh I love fun things". Rainbow Dash stated. "Then it's settled. We'll have a fashion show starring us!" Rarity announced as Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Twilight cheered. "So all you have to do is make a different, stunning, original, amazing outfit for one, two, three, four, five, six, seven—plus yourself—eight ponies And lickety split? Applejack asked. "Oh, Applejack. You make it sound as if it's going to be hard". Rarity replied. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Twilight all left, and Rarity began making the designs for the dresses, singing a little song as she worked. "Thread by thread, stitching it together Twilight's dress, cutting out the pattern snip by snip Making sure the fabric folds nicely It's the perfect color and so hip Always gotta keep in mind my pacing Making sure the clothes' correctly facing I'm stitching Twilight's dress Yard by yard, fussing on the details Jewel neckline, don't you know a stitch in time saves nine? Make her something perfect to inspire Even though she hates formal attire Gotta mind those intimate details Even though she's more concerned with sales It's Applejack's new dress Dressmaking's easy, for Pinkie Pie something pink Fluttershy something breezy Blend color and form, Do you think it looks cheesy? She asked Opal before continuing her song Something brash, perhaps quite fetching Hook and eye, couldn't you just simply die? Making sure it fits forelock and crest Don't forget some magic in the dress Even though it rides high on the flank Rainbow won't look like a tank I'm stitching Rainbow's dress Piece by piece, snip by snip Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip Thread by thread, primmed and pressed Yard by yard, never stressed And that's the art of the dress"! Rarity was putting the finishing touches on the outfits when there was another knock at the door. "Come in". She said. The door opened and in walked Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover. "Hey Rarity, Twilight told us what you were doing, and we decieded to come check on things". Reiner stated. Rarity smiled at the two of them. "Why yes Mr. Braun, I've just put the finshing touches on both your's and Mr. Hoover's suits". Rarity said as she stepped back to reveal the suits to the two of them. "What do you think"? Rarity asked. Reiner and Bertholdt eyed the suits, both of them very impreassed by what Rarity had made. "Rarity, these are amazing". Bertholdt stated in awe. Rarity smiled. Why thank you Mr Hoover, I'm glad to know that you and Mr. Braun appreanceatie the hard work I put in to them, I just hope the others will too". Rarity sighed. "What do you mean"? asked Reiner. "Well, I'm just not sure the girls will like my the dresses I made for them". Rarity stated as she showed Reiner, and Bertholdt the dresses she made. Reiner, and Berthodlt eyed the dresses. "Rarity they're amazing, I'm sure the girls will love them". Reiner stated. Rarity smiled at him. "You're right Mr. Braun, tommorow I'm going to show off these dresses to the girls, and they'll love em. Rarity stated. Reiner, and Bertholdt smiled. "Well we have to get going". Reiner said. "Yeah will see you tommorow". Bertholdt replied. Rarity smiled as she watch the two of them leave, but then she called out to them. "Reiner, Bertholdt"! Reiner and Bertholdt turnred around. "Thank you". Rarity simple said. "Reiner and Bertholdt smiled and left. The next morning Rarity brought the girls over to see the dresses she had designed for them. "That's it. Keep them closed. Don't look. Okay, you can look now!" The girls opened their eyes, and gasped in horror when the saw the dresses as Rarity began describing them. "These are your new outfits. What do you think of your old duds now, Applejack? Pretty swanky, are they not? And Twilight! I made this dress for you and I designed each outfit theme to perfectly reflect each pony's unique personality. Oh, it took me forever to get the colors right on this one, Rainbow Dash, but I did it. Oh, and it turned out beautiful, don't you think? And I know you are going to love yours, Fluttershy. It just sings spring! And Pinkie Pie, look! Pink! Your favorite! Aren't they all amazing"? She asked hopefully. The girls however clearly didn't like the dresses, but they didn't want to hurt Rarity's feelings. "Wow... they're..." Twilight began "Yeah, they're..." Rainbow Dash continued. "They sure are... somethin'." Applejack replied. "Yes! Something". Twilight said quickly, hoping Rarity wouldn't ask any questions. "I love something! Something is my favorite"! Pinkie Pie stated unsurely. "It's....... Nice". Fluttershy simply stated boredly. Rarity looked at all of them in confusion, unsure of why they were all reacting the way the were. "But what's the matter? Don't you like them? "They're very nice.." Twilight tried to reassure Rarity. "And we're plumb grateful 'cause you worked so hard on them." Applejack stated. "Mine's just not as cool as I was imagining." Rainbow Dash admitted causing Applejack, and Twilight to glare at her. "She did ask". Rainbow Dash defeneded. "I guess what we're all saying is that they're just not what we had in mind". Twilight finally admitted, with Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttetrshy nodding in agreement. Rarity sighed. "That's okay. Not a problem. There's plenty more where that came from. They were only a first pass. You're my friends and I want you to be one hundred and ten percent satisfied. Not to worry, I'll redo them". The girls tried to object to Rarity's offer. "Oh, Rarity. You don't have to do that. They're fine". Fluttershy insisted. Rarity shook her head. "I want them to be better than just fine. I want you to think they're absolutely perfect." "Are you sure? I mean, we wouldn't wanna impose". Applejack asked. Rarity nodded, once again refusing to take no for an answer. "Oh, it's no imposition. Really, I insist. The girls then smiled, happy that Rarity was willing to do this for them. "Well, in that case... thank you again, Rarity." Twilight stated, as she and the others left. Once they were gone, Rarity let out a strain of laughter as she realized what she had just done. "What have I gotten myself into?" Currently Publicly Avalablie Information Carosuel Boutique. A clothing store located in Ponyville which serves as both the buissness and home to Rarity. Later that day Reiner, and Bertholdt were back at the boutique as Rarity was beginning with the revisions on the dresses. "So, the girls didn't like the dresses"? Asked Reiner. "I wouldn't say they didn't like them, they just weren't what they were excepting". Rarity stated. Reiner, and Bertholdt looked at her in confusion. "Rarity, are you sure you can handle that"? asked Bertholdt. Rarity gave the two of them a confident look. "Don't worry darling, I know what I'm doing". she reassured them as she continued. Bertholdt, and Reiner decieded to just let Rarity be, and left the boutique. As they walked downstairs, they saw Fluttershy walking in. She smiled at the two of them. "Hi, Reiner, Bertholdt". she greeted happily. "Hello Fluttershy, what are you doing might I ask"? question Reiner. "I'm here cause Rarity said she needed to see me. Do you two know where she is"? Fluttershy asked. "Yeah, she's upstairs in her room working". Bertholdt replied. Fluttershy smiled. "Okay, thanks you two". she said as she walked upstairs, while Reiner, and Bertholdt left. Fluttershy walked up to Rarity's bedroom door and slowly entered inside. "Hello? You wanted to see me, Rarity?" she asked. "Fluttershy! Your new-new gown's ready". Rarity stated as she led Fluttershy into the changing room for her to try it on. Fluttershy put the dress on, and looked at herself in the mirror. "What do you think"? Rarity asked. Fluttershy stared at the dress. It defenintly wasn't what she wanted, but being the way she was she didn't want to upset Rarity. " I... love it." she hesitated, but Rarity was able to see through Fluttershy's act. "Oh, you're just saying that". "No, no. I do. It's... nice." Fluttershy stated. "Nice"? Rarity said in confusion. "Nice". Fluttershy repeated. Rarity did not like the vauge answers Fluttershy was giving her. Now Rarity was more sure that Fluttershy didn't like the dress. "If you don't like it, you should just tell me". Rarity insisted. "Oh, but I do like it". Fluttershy stated. "Like it or love it"? Rarity asked. "Um... both"? Fluttershy replied hoping that Rarity would just accept that answer. Rarity however didn't. "Which is it"? Now Fluttershy was getting a little scared as Rarity kept asking her what she thought. "Please stop asking me this I.." Fluttershy whimpered. "Well, just tell me what you really think". Rarity said. "No, that's okay..." Fluttershy stated. "Tell Me". Rarity insisted. "No... it's fine...". Said Fluttershy "Tell Me". Rarity said again. "I... like it..." Fluttershy insisted. "Tell me, tell me, tell-me-tell-me-tell-me"! Rarity kept pressuaring until Fluttershy finally had enough. "All right! Since you really wanna know... ". Fluttershy took a deep pressure, and began ranting about all the things she thought was wrong with the dress. "The armscye's tight, the middy collar doesn't go with the shawl lapel, the hems are clearly machine-stitched, the pleats are uneven, the fabric looks like toile, you used a backstitch here when it clearly called for a topstitch or maybe a traditional blanket stitch, and the overdesign is reminiscent of prêt-à-porter and not true French haute couture". She then paused, and looked at Rarity. "But, uh... you know... um, whatever you want to do is fine. She stated. Rarity just stared in complte shock at what Fluttershy had said. Fluttershy also stared akwardly at Rarity, and slowly left the room. Later, Twilight was describing the best she could how she wanted her dress to look. "Now, the stars on my belt need to be technically accurate. Orion has three stars on his belt, not four." Rarity just listened as she sang her song again. "Stitch by stitch, stitching it together Deadline looms, don't you know the client's always right? Even if my fabric choice was perfect Gotta get them all done by tonight Pinkie Pie, that color's too obtrusive Wait until you see it in the light I'm sewing them together!" Then she was with Pinkie Pie who was asking about ballons "Don't you think my gown would be more "me" with some lollipops?" She asked "Well I". Rarity tried to say only for Pinkie to intterupt her. "Balloons?" Pinkie Asked. "Well". Rarity tried to say again, but Pinkie intterupted again. "Do it". Pinkie Pie stated as Rarity continued singing. "Hour by hour, one more change I'm sewing them together, take great pains Fluttershy, you're putting me in a bind Rainbow Dash, what is on your mind? Oh my gosh, there's simply not much time Don't forget, Applejack's duds must shine Dressmaking's easy, every customer's call Brings a whole new revision Have to pick up the pace, still hold to my vision" "That constellation is Canis Major, not Minor". Twilight Stated. "French haute couture, please". Fluttershy requested. "Ugh". Rarity groaned. Next she was with Applejack. "What if it rains? Galoshes"! Aj demanded. Then Rarity was with Pinkie Pie again. Who was being extremly difficult with what she wanted. "More balloons! Oh no, that's too many balloons. More candy! Oh, less candy. Oh wait, I know. Streamers!" "Streamers"? Groaned Rarity. "Whose dress is this?" Pinkie asked. "Streamers it is". Rarity sighed. Next it was Rainbow Dash. As Rarity worked, Rainbow Dash just stood back, not saying a word. That confused Rarity, and she turned around to face Rainbow, who looked up at Rarity in confusion. "What"? Rainbow Dash asked. "Aren't you going to tell me to change something too"? Rarity asked. "No, I just want my dress to be cool." Dash replied. "Do you not like the color"? Rarity asked. "The color's fine, just make it look cooler". Rainbow Dash stated. "Do you not like the shape"? asked Rarity "The shape's fine, just make the whole thing... you know, cooler. It needs to be about twenty percent cooler". Rarity groaned again as the others began singing as well [Pinkie Pie] "All we ever want is indecision." [Rainbow Dash] "All we really like is what we know" . [Twilight Sparkle] "Gotta balance style with adherence." [Fluttershy] "Making sure we make a good appearance". [Applejack] "Even if you simply have to fudge it". [Reiner Braun] "Are you sure you can handle this". [Bertholdt Hoover] "We think you should take a break". [Main Cast Sans Rarity, Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover] "Make sure that it stays within our budget". [Rarity] "Got to overcome intimidation Remember, it's all in the presentation! Piece by piece, snip by snip Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip Bolt by bolt, primmed and pressed Yard by yard, always stressed And that's the art of the dress!" Rarity was finally done with the new dresses, unlike the last ones, these dresses were terrible, and Rarity herself knew it. "Oh, Opal. These are the ugliest dresses I've ever made". she moaned to her cat. Later the girls along with Reiner, and Bertholdt were back to see the new dresses Rarity made. "Okay. I did exactly what each of you asked for. Now don't hold back. Let me know what you really think". Rarity stated as she reveled the dresses to them. She pulled back the curtian and showed off the new dresses. Reiner and Bertholdt looked completly suprised as they saw the new looks, but the girls had huge smiles on their faces. "Oh my!" Twilight stated. "It's.... Perfect". said Fluttershy. "It's cool". said Rainbow Dash. "Why, they're the best duds I ever did see." Applejack stated. "It's exactly what I asked for"! the girls all said simultaneously. Rarity sighed as Twilight walked up to her. "Thank you Rarity". she said. Pinkie Pie then came up with a huge smile on her face. "Are you as happy with them as we are? Huh? Huh? Huh"? she asked Rarity. "Well, I'm... happy that all of you are happy. I'm just relieved to finally be done". Rarity stated. Pinkie Pie then turned to Reiner and Bertholdt. "What about you guys, what do you think"? she asked. Reiner, and Bertholdt both looked at the dresses, it was clear they were bad, but the girls sans Rarity all seemed to like them. "Um..... They're interesting". Reiner finally stated. "Yeah." Bertholdt agreed. All of a sudden the door burst opened, and Spike came inside with a look of excitment on his face. "You are never gonna believe this! You've heard of Hoity Toity?" He asked. "The bigwig fashion hotshot in Canterlot?" Twilight asked. Spike nodded. "Uh-huh. He heard about your fashion show. Well, maybe I happened to mention it to him... he's coming here all the way from Canterlot to see your work, Rarity"! Hearing this made the girls smile. They were extremely happy that Rarity could have a chance at her biggest dream. "Whoa, Nelly! You could sell a ton o' dresses to this guy. Your business will be boomin'!" Applejack stated. "Wow". Twilight admired. "That's so cool!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. "I don't believe it!" Pinkie Pie said exictedly. Rarity meanwhile had a look of horror on her face as she realized what would most likely happen if Hoity Toity saw the dresses she mad. She hoped her ears were playing tricks on her. "Hoity Toity? He's coming here? To see THESE dresses"? she asked Spike in a panic. "Yep! Get ready for all of your dreams to come true". Spike Confirmed. Rarity's eyes twitch as she realized that what Spike had said was true. Seeing this, Reiner walked up to Rarity. "You gonna be alright"? he asked her. Rarity looked up at him and nodded. "Yeah, I mean who knows, maybe I'll be suprised, and he'll end up liking the dresses I made". Rarity said trying to reassure herself. Reiner looked at Rarity unsurely but decieded to take her word. "Alright". He stated, as he, Bertholdt, and the other left. Once they were gone, Rarity burried her face in her hooves and groaned in frustration. Later that night, the citzens of Ponyville were gathering around a stage for Rarity's fashion show. They all moved to the side when Hoity Toity arrived. He came up to the front of the stage and clapped his hooves. One of the ponies gave him a cushion to sit on in order to watch the show. Rarity peeked from behind the curtian at the crowd. "Oh". she mumbled, then she gasped when she saw Hoity. "There he is!" Rarity took a deep breath, and tried to compoise herself. "Okay. Relax, Rarity. Your friends like their outfits and so will he. she thought to herself. All of a sudden the lights went out, startling Rarity. "What's wrong with the lights?!" She exclaimed before realizing what was happening. "Oh, yes. That means the show's. starting. Good". Reiner and Bertholdt appered next to Rarity. Them being there made her feel a little better. Just then Spike's voice was heard over a microphone. "Since the beginning of time, the elite of Equestria have longed for pony fashions that truly expressed the essence of their very souls. Patiently waiting decades—no, centuries—for the perfect pony gown. Today, at long last, Equestria, your wait is over! Let's hear it for the breathtaking designs of Ponyville's own Rarity!" Spike announced. Once he was done the girls all came out on the stage in the dresses. The crowd all looked on in shock at the dresses. Some of them began to murmur among themselves, and it didn't take long for the girls to realize that something was wrong. "Why's everypony lookin' at us like that"? Asked Applejack. Twilight then realized what was wrong. "Oh dear". She muttered. Rainbow Dash also seemed to realize that the crowd didn't like the dresses. "You think we overdid it?" She asked. "Nah". Stated Applejack trying to be optimistic, but once she looked at the crowd, and heard their murmmers, she realized that they really did overdo it. "Okay maybe a Little". Applejack finally admitted. Hoity Toity looked on in absoulte disgust, he couldn't beleive he had been forced to sit through this awful fashion show and see these terrible dresses. He was annoyed, he was offeneded, and he was going to make sure everyone new it. "Oh, those amateurish designs look like a piled-on mishmash of everything but a kitchen sink! It's a travesty is what it is. Those outfits are the ugliest things I've ever seen, oh for shame! Who is responsible for subjecting our eyes to these horrors? Not to mention wasting my valuable time". Rarity jumped behind Reiner, and Bertholdt, hoping not to be seen. "Oh! Hide me"! she begged the two stallions. Spike however shown the light on Rarity, and began cheering for her, forcing Rarity to face both the crowd and Hoity Toity. Rarity did a walk of shame as Spike cheered for her. "Come on out and take a bow, Rarity. You worked really hard for this. Yes! All right, woo-hoo! Go, Rarity"! Rarity slowly walked out on stage as Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy tried to keep themselves together, but as Rarity faced the crowd they began mururming again. Rarity tried to keep her composer, but then Hoity Toity spoke up. "That mare should never have tried to be a designer, and she never will be with dresses like that". he stated causing the crowd to laugh. That was too much for Rarity, knowing her dreams were crushed she bursted into tears and ran off the stage, Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Spike, Reiner and Bertholdt all looking on broken hearted. Reiner was about to confront Hoity Toity, but Bertholdt stopped him. "It's not worth it Reiner". Bertholdt stated as the two of them watched Rarity run off in the distance. Several days past, and Rarity hadn't come out of the Carosuel Boutquie since the fashion show. The rest of the Mane Eight all decieded to go to the boutique to check on how she was doing. While on their way they began to discuss what happened at the fashion show. "I mean I just don't get it, why didn't that jerkface Hoity Toity like Rarity's dresses". Asked Rainbow Dash. Applejack sighed. "Cause he was right, they were awful, and it was all our fault. Twilight, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy all nodded in agreement confusing Rainbow Dash. "What do you mean our fault"? she asked causing Twilight to turn and face her. "The first dresses she made were perfect, but we had to be picky and make severeal demends when we should have just accepted the orignal designs". Rainbow Dash looked down, knowing full well that both Twilight and Applejack were right. Reiner then spoke up. "I'm glad you girls are realzing the mistake you made, that show great friendship." he complemented. Pinkie Pie looked up at him sadly, "But, what can we do Reiner"? she asked. Reiner walked over to Pinkie Pie and put his hoof on her shoulder. "Just do what ever you can to make things right". he stated. The group then arrived at Rarity's Boutique and walked up to her room. "Rarity? You okay in there? You haven't come out for days". Pinkie Pie stated as she knocked on the door. "I'm never coming out! I can't show my face in Ponyville ever again! I used to be somepony. I used to be respected. I made dresses. Beautiful, beautiful dresses! But now everypony is laughing at me. I'm nothing but a laughing stock"! Rarity sobbed. Hearing that made the girls feel even more guilty. "You're not a laughing stock, Rarity...". Twilight tried to reassure her. "She kind of is". admitted Rainbow Dash. "Shhh"! Twilight shushed her before talking to Rarity again. "Come on out and talk to us." She pleaded. Leave me alone! I vant to be alone! I want to wallow in... whatever it is that ponies are supposed to wallow in! Do ponies wallow in pity? Oh, listen to me, I don't even know what I'm supposed to wallow in! I'm so pathetic!" Rartiy wailled. Realizing that Rarity wasn't going to come out, the others began to get worried. "What do we do now"? asked Twilight. "Uh... panic?" Suggested Fluttershy. "That's your answer to everything". Replied Rainbow Dash. "Well we can't leave Rarity like this". Applejack stated. "Yeah! If we do she'll end up becoming a Crazy Cat Lady"! Said Pinkie Pie. "She only has one cat" Bertholdt pointed out. "Give her time". Pinkie Pie replied. Twilight then looked through the keyhole of Rarity's work room. Eventually she noticed that Rarity's own dress wasn't finish. She must have been so busy working on our dresses that she didn't have to finish her own". Twilight realized. Then and idea flew into her mind. "I got it! I know what to do". she exclaimed. "What is it"? asked Reiner. "Well finish Rarity's dress for her"! Twilight explained. Everyone smiled at that. "Hey that's a mighty fine idea Twilight, but um how are we going to finish it for her"? asked Applejack. That's when Fluttershy spoke up. "Um, I know a little bit about sewing". Fluttershy stated causing everyone to look at her as she gave a sheepish smile. Later that day, Rarity was in her work room contemplating her next move. "Exile... I guess technically I'd have to move away to live in exile. Where would I go? And what would I pack? Oh, it's going to take me forever to do all of that packing. What are you supposed to pack when you go to exile? Are you supposed to pack warm?" she wondered to herself. All of a sudden she heard her cat meow in dispare. "Huh? Opal?" Rarity looked out her window and saw Opal stuck at the top of a tree. "Opal, how did you get up there? Hang on, you poor dear! Mama's coming"! Rarity called out as she rushed outside. However when she got there she saw Rainbow Dash sitting on the other branch. "Rainbow Dash"?! Rarity asked in both shock and confusing, before realizing how Opal got on the tree. "How dare you strand my poor Opal in a tree"? "Well, how else were we gonna get you out here to show you this?" Rainbow Dash asked as she flew to the side to reveal Rarity's completed dress with Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy standing next to it. Rarity gawked at it in absoulte shock. "What is it? It's not... you..." She sputtered. "We all finished your dress for you". Pinkie Pie stated. "Thanks to Fluttershy's freaky knowledge of sewing." Applejack replied, making the yellow pegagus blush. "Do you like it"? asked Fluttershy. Rarity stared at them for a bit. "Like it? Like it"?! she questioned as she studied the dress carefully. "Oh no, she doesn't like it". Fluttershy said sadly. Rarity nodded her head. "You're right, I don't like it". she admitted. The girls looked down sadly "Awwww". the moanded. But then Rarity turned around with a huge grin on her face. "I love it"! Rarity exclaimed. "Yay!" the girls all cheered as Rarity smiled at them. "You ponies did an amazing job. It's exactly the way I imagined it." She said. "We just followed your amazing design". Fluttershy stated. "Just like we should have when you made our dresses". Twilight admited steping forward. "Those first dresses you designed were perfect". Twilight concluded. "We're so super sorry". Pinkie Pie apologized. "You worked really hard to make our dresses exactly the way we wanted them. We all saw how well that turned out". Rainbow Dash stated. Rarity smiled at them. "Oh, I forgive you." she told them, making the girls smile as well. "Well, that's mighty big of you." Applejack replied. Rarity's smile then faded as she still remembered the fashion show failure. "Stiil though, my whole life's career is ruined"! she again cried in despair. "Oh, right. That". Applejack remembered. Twilight however smiled and looked to her left. "Maybe not". she stated. Rarity's gaze followed Twilight's, and to her shock she saw Hoity Toity standing there. "Alright I haven't got all day". he said. Rarity starred at Hoity Toty in complete shock, she turned to the girls. "Wha wha, bbb...but how"? she asked. "You can thank Reiner and Bertholdt for that". Twilight stated as the two stalions walked up to Hoity Toity. A big smile formed on Rarity's face, and she eagerly ushered Hoitiy Toity inside her Boutique for another fashion show. Once inside, Hoity Toity sat down, and clapped his hooves. "Take two". he announced. The lights went off, and music started playing. Hoity Toity looked on in confusion, so far this was much different. Then Twilight came on the stage wearing the dress Rarity had orignally designed for her. Now Hoity Toity was even more confused. "Hello... oh, this can't be the same designer". he said. Then Applejack came on. "Simply magnificent! And I suddenly have a fierce craving for some Dutch apple pie, candied apples on a stick, apple turnovers, apple cobbler..." Hoity was intteruped by Pinkie Pie showing up. "Brilliant"! he exclaimed. Next was Rainbow Dash. "Oh, spectacular"! And finally Fluttershy. This time Hoity Toity was alot more impressed then he was before. "Now this is a fashion show! All of these dresses are absolutely amazing. Who is responsible? Step forward, show yourself!" Rarity stepped forward, this time with more confidence and pride then she did before, and wearing on dress. Hoity Toity clapped and cheered, while Reiner, and Bertholdt looked on from the side, both smiling. "Brava! Brava! Magnifico! Encore!" Hoity Toity cheered. Rarity smiled, happy tears streaming down her face. "Oh, thank you. Thank you! Oh, thank you so much"! she exclaimed. Later on, the girls were all admiring themselves in their new dresses as Twilight was reciting her letter to Princess Celestia Dear Princess Celestia, This week, my very talented friend Rarity learned that if you try to please everypony, you often times end up pleasing nopony, especially yourself. And I learned this: when somepony offers to do you a favor, like making you a beautiful dress, you shouldn't be overly critical of something generously given to you. In other words, you shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth. [ She giggled. Reiner, and Bertholdt were watching and the end of the room, as the girls smiled, they smiled too. Rarity then walked up to them. "I never thanked you". she said. "For what"? asked Reiner. For believing in me, and trying to tell me that I should have gone with my orignal designs. "Hey, you wanted to be generous for your friends, even if the dresses they wanted weren't all that great, the fact is that you care about them so much that you were willing to do what ever it took to make them happy". Reiner stated. Rarity smiled. "Thank you Reiner, hearing that..... Well it makes me feel so good". She stated as she hugged both Reiner and Bertholdt. Hoity Toity then walked up to Rarity with a huge smile on his face. "Rarity, my congratulations to you on a most impressive fashion debut. Would you do me the great honor of allowing me to feature your couture in my Best of the Best Boutique in Canterlot"? he asked. Rarity gasped in delight quickly nodding yes. Hoity Toity was pleased, but then said something that made Rarity's eye twitch. Now, I'll need you to make a dozen of each dress for me by next Tuesday. Rarity let out a strained laugh Preview Twilight tries to prove that Pinkie Pie's abilty to predict the future is nothing but a bunch of coincidences, but the more she tries, the more it seems like the predictions might be true. Next Episode. Feeling Pinkie Keen. Author's Note Characters in order of apperance Rarity Opalescence Applejack Twilight Sparkle Rainbow Dash Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Fluttershy Pinkie Pie Spike Daisy Derpy Hooves Sweetie Drops Amethyst Star Shoeshine Golden Harvest Minnuette Hoity Toity Lyra Heartstrings DJ Pon-3 Dr. Hooves Episode 22: Feeling Pinke Keen: Gala arc Part 15In the center of Ponyville, Twilight and Spike were again testing more of Twilight's abilites in magic. Spike was standing in front of Twilight with a rock on his head, and holding a stick. Twilight lit up her horn, and prepared to fire a magic blast at Spike. "Tuh! Nuh! Uh! Nyuh"! She grunted. Finally the spell started to work. Spike was soon wearing a tux and bowtie. Then Twilight tunred to stick into a cane. Twilight was about to finish the spell, but Spike got distracted by something, and turned away. "Eyes over here Spike". Twilight told him. Spike turned to face Twilight. "Uh, sorry." He apologized. "For this to work, it's crucial we keep our concentration totally on the-". Twilight stated as she turned to rock on Spike's head into a top hat, but Spike was once again distracted by Pinkie Pie. "Oooh". That distraction caused the spell to backfire, and the hat to turn back into a rock, striking Spike on the head. "Spike! This magic needs our full attention to make it happen. There's no other way"! Twilight scolded "I can't help it, look". Spike argued pointing over to Pinkie Pie who was wearing some type of strange umbrella hat, and hidng under various objects. "Ugh, never mind her. She's just being Pinkie Pie". Twilight stated. "Super-extra Pinkie Pie today." Spike repiled. The two of them decieded to go see what Pinkie Pie was up too, as she still was moving around weirdly and looking at her tail, which started twitching. "Hmm... Twitchy twitcha twitcha twitch." Pinkie muttered as Twilight, and Spike walked up to her. "Pinkie Pie? What in the wide, wide world of Equestria are you up to?" Asked Twilight. Pinkie Pie turned to face the two of them. "Oh! It's my tail! It's my tail! It's a-twitch a-twitchin'! And you know what that means!" Pinkie Pie stated. "Actually, Pinkie, I haven't the slightest idea". Twilight replied. "The twitchin' means my Pinkie Sense is telling me that stuff's gonna start falling! You two better duck for cover." Hearing that made Twilight smile, she couldn't believe how silly Pinkie Pie was being. "Oh, Pinkie, it's not gonna rain. Why, there's barely even a cloud in the-ugh!". Twilight was intterupted when a frog landed on her face, and croaked. "He said, "nice catch" in frog". Pinkie Pie stated. Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie Pie all looked up and saw Fluttershy above them with a small cart of frogs on her back. "Oh, I'm so, so sorry. You okay, Twilight Sparkle? I just couldn't stand to see the pond getting so over-populated, what with the frogs all hopping into each other and all, so I decided to fly as many as I can on over to Froggy Bottom Bogg." she explained. "Of course you did". Twilight muttered under her breath as Fluttershy flew away. "Bye Bye". the yellow pegagus said. Once she was gone Pinkie Pie turned to Twilight who still had the frog on her. " Um... Twilight? You gotta little somethin' on your face there." she pointed out. "Oh, really? Did your Pinkie Sense tell you that, too?" Twilight asked sarcasticly. "Nah! I could just see it. La-la-la-la-la..." Pinkie Pie stated as she trotted away. Twilight rolled her eyes. "C'mon, Spike, let's continue our practice session where there's a little less commotion." She said as she walked away, with Spike catching up and hoping on her back. "Wow! That was amazing! Pinkie Pie predicted something would fall, and it did!" Spike said impressed. Twilight however was unconvinced. "Oh, come on. She said that something would fall, and a frog just happened to fall right around the same time. A coincidence, nothing else to it." She said with full confidince, when all of a sudden Pinkie Pie rushed back over to them, her tail twitching once again. "My tail! My tail! Twitch-a-twitch! Twitch-a-twitch! Somethin' else is gonna fall!" Twilight rolled her eyes again. "Oh, Pinkie, please. Nothing else is gonna fa-aaah"! Twilight said before falling in a ditch. "Oh no Twilight fell! Is it... safe to go help her"? Spike asked. Pinkie Pie nodded. "It's okay, my tail stopped twitching. La-la-la-la-la, la-la-la...". She stated, and once again she happily trotted again Spike went down into the ditch as Twilight got up. "That was amazing". Spike said. "Oh please". Twilight muttered again. They then heard a voice. "Uh, Twilight? Why are you hanging out in a ditch?". Twilight and Spike looked up to see Applejack and Apple Bloom standing above them "Hello Twilight and Spike". Apple Bloom waved. Spike Blushed and waved back. "Yes so, why again are you in a ditch"? Applejack repeated. "Because, Pinkie Pie predicted it!" Spike stated confusing the two sisters. "Honestly, Spike, she did not. Two coincidences in a row like this may be unlikely, but it's still easier to believe than twitchy tails that predict the future". Twilight Stated. Hearing the phrase twitchy tail made both Applejack, and Apple Bloom shudder. "witchy tail? Pinkie Sense? Whoa! Nyu-uh!" Applejack grabbed Apple Bloom and the two of them ducked under a cart. "Don't worry, it's safe. Prediction already came true." Spike reassured them. Now Twilight was even more confused. "Wait, don't tell me you two believe in this stuff as well". Applejack and Apple Bloom both made their way out from under the cart. "I know it doesn't make much sense, but those of us who have been in Ponyville a while have learned over time that, if Pinkie's a-twichin', you better listen." Applejack stated with Apple Bloom nodding in response. "That's right, Pinkie plus twitchy tail equals duck in cover"! Apple Bloom pointed out. Twilight just rolled her eyes. Then Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover came up to them. "Hey, what's going on"? Asked Reiner. Seeing them made Twilight smile as she new that they hadn't been in Ponyville that long either. They would have to believe that Pinkie Sense was nonsense. "Reiner, Bertholdt, do you believe in Pinkie Sense"? asked Twilight. "Pinkie what now"? asked Reiner "Pinkie Sense! Pinkie Pie's abilty to predict the future"! Spike stated. "Uh...... yeah that". Twilight replied. "You can't believe in that can you"? She asked Reiner thought for a moment before replying. "Actually, I can". he stated shocking Twilight. "What, but you've never seen it before". She exclaimed. Reiner nodded. "I may not have seen it before, but I can still believe it". he stated. "How can you believe in something you haven't seen"? asked Twilight. "Because Bertholdt here has something similar". Reiner stated. "He does"? asked Spike. "I do"? asked Bertholdt". Reiner nodded, he was about to explain when Pinkie Pie rushed forward having overheard them "You have your own Berthodlt sense"?! She asked the pegagus stailion. Reiner nodded. "You can predict the future based on how Bertholdt sleeps". Reiner stated as he went on to explain. "This morning his body was halfway outside the window, and that means good weather". "Out the window"?! Spike exlcaimed in shock. "And today's weather is just find and dandy". Applejack pointed out. Bertholdt meanwhile was remebering that morning for a different reason. "No wonder I couldn't stop sneezing when I woke up". Bertholdt stated. "Yesterday, his left leg was raised and behind his head. Would have been a good day to do buisness". "Behind his head"?! Twilight exclaimed. "And yesterday Rarity had made a lot of sales". Pinkie Pie pointed out. "So that's why the back of my head hurt so bad". Bertholdt stated. "Two days ago, he was kneeling on the floor with his head thrown forward. That means the arrival of someone you were expecting." "Kneeling"?! Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Weird, cause two days ago we we're expecting family to visit the farm, and they did". Appleack said. "I see, that's why my legs were so numb". Bertholdt realized. "The day before that, he was up against the wall in a handstand. That portends women troubles". Reiner explained. "A handstand"! exclaimed Apple Bloom. Bertholdt pondered this, "I see, that would explain". Bertholdt began, but then stopped himself and looked at Reiner. "Hey, hold on a minute Reiner, this is starting to get kind of embarrassing". Bertholdt stated. Twilight rolled her eyes again, "Oh please, none of those things happened because you slepted in strange positions". Twilight stated. "Maybe". Reiner admited. "But you can't deny the fact that it is strange that strange things happen thanks to Pinkie Pie's predictions". Pinkie Pie nodded in agreement, when all of a sudden her ears started flopping. "My ears are flopping! My ears are flopping!" She exclaimed. "Nyuh! What does that mean?!" Spike asked in fear. Pinkie Pie turned to Twilight. "I'll start a bath for you". Pinkie Pie said confusing Twilight. "Huh"? she asked before chuckling. " bath? This thing keeps on getting more ridiculous by the minute!" Twilight stated, but she was again proven wrong when a stalion with a cart ran through a mud puddle, splashing Twilight with mud. She sighed, and followed Pinkie Pie back to sugarcube corner. At sugarcube corner Twilight was in the bath while Pinkie Pie was doing her best to explain the Pinkie Sense to her. "Sooo, basically, it works like this: I get different, little, niggly feelings and they mean different things. Like when my back is itchy, it means it's my lucky day. And, when my knee gets pinchy, that means something scary's about to happen". Pinkie Pie stated. "Is your knee pinchy now"? asked Twilight. "No, but my shoulder's achy. That means there's an alligator in the tub." Pinkie Pie stated as she dove her head into the tub and pulled out a small toothless aligator. Seeing it made Twilight scream. "How come your knee didn't get pinchy?! That isn't just scary, it's downright dangerous!" Pinkie Pie laughed. "No, it's not, silly! This is my pet alligator, Gummy. He's got no teeth. See? Haha!" Pinkie Pie giggled as Gummy tried biting her mane. "Okay, okay... I get it." Twilight said. Twilight and Pinkie Pie left sugarcube corner with Twilight still not believing in the Pinkie Sense. "Well, I still don't believe all this... "special power" stuff. It's just a bunch of mumbo-jumbo." Twilight stated confidendly causing Pinkie Pie to gasp in shock. "What's not to believe? You do magic, what's the difference?" Pinkie Pie asked as she trotted forward. Hearing that made Twilight seeth with rage. "Huge!" Twilight exclaimed. as she rushed foward to block Pinkie Pie's path. She then stood atop a crate, and cleared her throat before explaning. "For one thing, magic is something you study and practice. It only happens when you decide to do it, and it's meant to make something specific that you choose to happen, happen. With you, uh, it makes no sense at all!" Twilight stated. Pinkie Pie felt insulted by Twilight's statment, and argued back. "That's so not true, Twilight! Sometimes it's a bunch of random things happening to my body at random times that supposedly predict the future. I call 'em "combos". "Combos"? Twilight repeated in confusion. Pinkie Pie nodded. "Sure! You know, like, ear flop, then knee twitch, then eye flutter. That means the sky is about to be graced with a beautiful rainbow". She stated. "Yeah, sure". Twilight said sarcasticly. Suddendly Pinkie Pie started to flare up again. "Uh-oh, I feel a combo coming on"! She stated. The combo was Ear flop, eye flutter, knee twitch". Twilight just rolled her eyes, and was about to open the door to her house, when all of a sudden it flew open, smashing her in the face. Twilight looked up and frowned at Pinkie Pie. "Ughhh... You said that combo meant "beautiful rainbow"." She pointed out, but Pinkie Pie simply shook her head. "Oh no-no-no-no-no. You're thinking of an ear flop, then knee twitch, then eye flutter. This was an ear flop, then eye flutter, then knee twitch. That usually means "look out for opening doors". She stated before looking at Twilight again. "You okay"? she asked innocently. Twilight just groaned in frustration. "I don't believe this". She grummbled. "You don't believe because you don't understand". Was Pinkie's response. That gave Twilight an Idea. Soon both Twilight and Pinkie Pie were in the basement of the Golden Oak Library with Pinkie Pie wearing a strange kind of helment on her head. Twilight was going to find a way to understand Pinkie sense one way or another. "Okay. Now when you get another twitch, we'll have all kinds of scientific information." She stated. Pinkie Pie simply nodded. "Okie-dokie-lokie"! Twilight turned on the machine and turned to Pinkie. "Any twitches"s she asked. Pinkie Pie shook her head. "Nopey-dopey!" After a few more minutes Twilight turned and asked again. "Now? Anything?" For a second Pinkie Pie thought she felt something. "Wait! Hold on!" But it turned to be nothing. "Uh, no". Pinkie Pie replied. This only added on to Twilight's frustration. "Are you kidding me?! After a whole day of nonstop twitching, now that I've got you all hooked up, you're not getting a single one?" "I don't control it, they just come and go." Pinkie Pie stated. "That makes no sense". Twilight retorted. "Sometimes you just have to believe in things, even when you can't figure 'em out". Pinkie Pie replied. "I will not believe in anything I cannot explain." Twilight stated. All of a sudden Pinkie Pie felt something. "Wait, hold on, I'm feeling something..." This made Twilight excited. "Oh my gosh, what? What is it?!" She asked. Then Pinkie Pie's stomach growled. "It's my tummy! That usually means I'm hungry! Let's eat!" She replied. Finally Twilight had enough and ripped the helmet off of Pinkie Pie. "Urgh... You know what? Just forget it! I don't need to know if this is real or not. I don't need to understand it! I don't even care!" Twilight yelled. Pinkie Pie just smiled and trotted off. "Okie-dokie-lokie". But then she felt another twitch coming on "Uh oh. Hu-bu-bu-bu-buh!" Again the door to the basement flew open, smashing into Twilight. "Pinkie? Have you seen Twilight?" Spike asked. "Uh-huh". Pinkie Pie Replied as she left. Spike looked behind the door, and saw Twilight. "Twilight? What are ya doing back there?" He asked. "Rrrrgh... Did you two plan this?" Twilight asked confusing Spike. "Plan what"? Spike asked as Twilight fell to the ground. "Urgh! This is ridiculous. This can't be happening. This makes no sense. I have to figure this out. She stated. Meanwhile at Froggy Bottom Bog, Fluttershy was finishing releasing the frogs, completely unaware that something horrifying was lurking nearby. Currently Publicly Avaliable Imformation Froggy Bottom Bog. A swampy area located deep within the Everfree Forest. As the name suggest, the swamp is home to plenty of frogs, but also houses other, far more dangerous creatures. Later the next morning Pinkie Pie was happily rolling around and playing in the park, meanwhile Twilight was watching her from inside a bush, waiting for something to happen. "Um, Twilight". She heard a voice say startling her. Twilight turned to See Spike, Bertholdt, and Reiner standing behind her. Quickly she pulled them in the bush. "Honestly you three, don't you know better then to sneak up on somepony". "Sorry". Spike apologized sheepishly before he, Reiner, and Bertholdt turned to see what Twilight was looking at. "Why are you spying on Pinkie Pie"? Asked Bertholdt". "I'm not spying Mr. Hoover, I'm simply observing." Twilight stated. "Okay, well what exactaly are you observing"? Asked Reiner. "I'm doing scientific research. I'm observing Pinkie Pie, scientific name: Pinkius Pieicus, in its natural habitat." Twilight replied. "You know she's not an animal right?" Asked Spike. Twilight just ignored him. "There's something fishy going on with the whole twitchy prediction thing, and I'm getting to the bottom of it. So, shh. Come on, Pinkius Pieicus is on the move." She stated as she Saw Pinkie Pie move away. Eventually Pinkie stopped in front of Ponyville Junior High, rolling around in the crash, as Twilight, Spike, Bertholdt, and Reiner watched from afar. All of a sudden Pinkie got up and scratched her nose. Twilight took note of this. "Hm... Itchy nose..." Pinkie then gasped and dove under a piece of equitment. "Aha! That makes no sense. See? She's hiding like something's about to fall from the sky, but a twitchy tail means something's gonna fall from the sky, not an itchy nose. Twilight stated as she went back to studying. Reiner, Bertholdt, and Spike however were wondering what Pinkie was hiding from. They looked up, and gasped as a swarm of bees came flying towards them. Spike, and Bertholdt ran for their lives as Reiner grabbed Twilight, and began running as well with her on his back. "Woah! Reiner, what are you doing"?! Asked Twilight. "Keeping you safe". Reiner replied. "What are you talking about"?! Asked Twilight. She then heard the buzzing, and saw the Bees chasing them. Reiner ran as fast as he could, and dove into a pond with Twilight. They waited for a few seconds before coming up. Seeing the cost was clear they came out of the water. "You alright"? asked Reiner. Twilight nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine". she replied. Next Pinkie Pie traveled to Sweet Apple Acres with the others following her. They dove behind some hay bales, and Twilight pulled out her binoculars. She watched as Pinkie Pie sniffed a flower. "What's she doing"? asked Spike. "Smelling a flower". Twilight replied. "Holy guacamole! I wonder what that means?" Spike asked. "Probably that the flower smells good". Bertholdt stated. Twilight nodded, and went back to observing Pinkie, when all of a sudden Pinkie started to twitch. "Wait. I'm getting something. Ear flop, eye flutter, knee twitch." Twilight noted. Hearing that, Spike immeditly got up. "Hold on... You told me that's the combo that says "watch out for opening doors"!" Bertholdt, and Reiner also moved out of the way, but Twilight just chuckled. "Oh-ho. You really, really believe this stuff, don't you? Here, let me show you there's nothing to be afraid of." Twilight said as she leaned against the door to the farm, and nothing happened. "You see". she asked as she began trotting forward. "I promise you there's nothing to fear from that—" Twilight was stopped mid sentence when a secret trap door opened up underneath her, causing her to fall down serveal flights of stars. "Wo-o-ah! Ow! Ugh! Ow! Ow! She landed in some kind of cellar where Applejack, and Apple Bloom were. Seeing Twilight made Applejack smile. "Twilight! You came to visit my new apple cellar, how nice." Applejack greeted happily, but realized quickly something was wrong when Twilight didn't answer. "Twi? You okay? Uh, Twi?" She asked. "Is she okay Applejack"? Asked Apple Bloom. Twilight had ended up injuring her two front hooves. Fourtently Applejack, had a makeshift wheelchair for her to sit in, and Apple Bloom provided her some bandges. Unfourtnently, now Twilight had a hard time lifing her front hooves, and needed to relay on help in order to continue her research. She, Reiner, Spike, and Bertholdt had followed Pinkie Pie back to the park. "Here, let me help you." Spike said as he lifted Twilight's hooves in order for her to look. Twilight watched, waiting for Pinkie Pie to do something. "Okay, take this down". Twilight said. Pinkie's tail twithced. "Twitchy Tail". Twilight observed. Spike wrote it down in the noted. "Twitchy Tail". Then the reliezation hit him. "Twitchy tail!" Spike shouted in a panic as Twilight tried to shush him. "Hush, Spike! We can't let Pinkie know we're here, remember?" Twilight said, but Spike was in too much of a panic to listen. "Something's gonna fall, something's gonna fall! Run for your lives. Ah-ha-ha!" Spike screamed as he ran out of the way. Bertholdt also took a few paces back. Twilight just rolled her eyes. "Ugh, You two honestly, you're overreact—" She was intterupted when Reiner pulled her wheelchair out of the way. "Woah! Now what are you doing Reiner"?! She asked. Twilight then looked back to where she origninally was. A flower pot, an anvill, a hay cart, and a piano all landed right where Twilight had been sitting. If Reiner hadn't moved her, she would have been hit by those things. Later Pinkie Pie was in another part of the park, when Applejack and Apple Bloom walked towards her. Pinkie Pie smiled and greeted them. "Hey Applejack, Apple Bloom. Whatcha doin'?" She asked. "Takin' more apples to our new apple cellar". Applejack Replied."How 'bout you, Pinkie? Whatchu doin'?" Applejack then asked. "Oh, letting Twilight secretly follow me all day without me knowing." Pinkie Pie responeded. Hearing that, Twilight, Spike, Bertholdt, and Reiner all came out from their hiding spot. "You mean you knew all along?! Why didn't you tell me?" Twilight asked angrily. Pinkie Pie just giggled. "Silly, that would've spoiled the secret!" She replied. "Urgh". Twilight grumbled. "Tail..... Still twitching"? Spike asked nervously. "Yeah, you okay Pinkie"? Asked Reiner. Pinkie Pie nodded. "All done, clear skies from here on in, as far as I can tell—" Pinkie Pie replied, but then she was intterupted by her whole body shuddering. "Hu-bu-bu-bu-bu-bu!" "What's wrong"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Yeah, what does that mean"? asked Spike. "Dunno, never gotten any like it before, but whatever that shudder's about, it's a doozy. Something you'd never expect to happen is gonna happen"! Pinkie Shuddered again. "Hu-bu-bu-bu-bu hu-bu-bu-bu! And it's gonna happen... at Froggy Bottom"! She manged to say. Applejack gasped. "That's where Fluttershy's headed"! "Oh no! Is it about her"?! Spike asked fearfully. "I'm not sure". Pinkie Pie replied. "We have to find—" Apple Bloom began, only to stop when she saw Bertholdt running into the forest. "Bertholdt wait"! She called as she ran after him. Applejack soon followed after them. "They got the right idea. We'd better go make sure Fluttershy's alright". Twilight just stood there and rolled her eyes. "Calm down, everypony. All we know right now is that Pinkie Pie just got a case of the shivers. That's all." Twilight concluded. Bertholdt stopped in his tracks, and turned to face Twilight. (Vogel Im Kafig Plays) "Maybe you're right Twilight, but I'm not taking any chances". He told her. "Bertholdt, Fluttershy's fine". Twilight said, tottaly sure of herself. "Better to be safe then sorry". Bertholdt concluded as he took off again. With the others following him. Twilight sighed and began to follow as well, scooping Spike onto her back. "Guh— Hey! I thought you didn't believe in this stuff?" He asked in confusion. "I don't. I just want to be there to see the look on Pinkie's face when we find out nothing's wrong." Twilight replied. "Okie-dokie!" Pinkie Pie replied. In the Everfree Forest, the group made their way to Froggy Bottom Bog, with Bertholdt up ahead leading the way. "Bertholdt slow down"! Reiner called out as a ran up to catch his friend. Pinkie Pie then got another shudder. "Hu-bu-bu-bu-bu-bu"! "Cold? Need a jacket or something?" Twilight asked mockingly. Bertholdt shot her a glare. "This is no time to be making jokes"! He said with venom in his voice. Twilight just rolled her eyes, as Reiner attempted to calm Bertholdt down. Meanwhile Spike was talking with Applejack, and Apple Bloom. "So... Whadda'ya think happened to Fluttershy?" Spike asked. "Nothin I hope". Applejack replied. "I know, but, whadda'ya think happened"? Spike asked. "Apple Bloom, and I are tryin not to think about it". Applejack replied. Spike nodded. "Me too. But I'm thinkin' about it anyway. Like, what if she exploded?" Spike stated. "Just exploded? For no reason"? Asked Applejack. "Yeah, like BOOM"! Spike replied. "That honestly doesn't make sense, why would Fluttershy explode for no reason"? Asked Apple Bloom. "I don't know". Spike responded. "Whoa". said Pinkie. "I know". Replied Spike. A thought then flew into Pinkie Pie's head. "What if... What if she exploded, and then... and then exploded again!?" She asked. That worried Spike even more. "Can you do that? Is it possible to explode twice"? he asked. "Of course not". Reiner replied from up ahead. That didn't really reassure Spike though. "But what if she exploded, and exploded again, and then— ugh!" he was stopped when Twilight stood on his tail. "Will you two stop? She's fine, I'm sure of it." Twilight stated. "I hope you're right. For Fluttershy's sake". Applejack responded. Then she spotted Froggy Bottom Bog. "Look! there's the bog". she said. The group went towards the bog, and began to search for their friend. "Fluttershy"! Called Bertholdt. "Fluttershy"! Called Applejack. "Fluttershy"! Called Pinkie Pie. Then Pinkie Pie saw her. "Fluttershy"! Spike exclaimed giving her a big hug. "You're okay!" He stated happily. "Of course". Fluttershy stated in confusion as Bertholdt breath a sigh of relief. "That's a relief". Stated Applejack. "I'm glad everything's okay". Said Pinkie Pie. "So am I, I was really worried something had happened". Apple Bloom replied. Twilight meanwhile just stood back with a huge grin on her face. "Sorry, I know it's not nice to gloat but... Aha! I told you there was nothing to worry about, and I was right." She stated. "Twilight that's not the point, the point is that Fluttershy is okay". Reiner stated. "Yes and that's good, but still I was right". Twilight stated as she continued. "Pinkie Pie said whatever she was shuddering about was a" She coughed do to some smell but went on. "Doozy, and". she coughed again unaware of the large creature rising up behind her. "and the only" She coughed again. " doozy I see here is how right I am". The others noticed the creature. "Um Twilight". Applejack whispered trying to warn her friend, but Twilight wasn't listening. "Pinkie's made a lot of predictions today but". She coughed again. "Ugh, what the hell is that smell"? She asked, but chose to ignore it, and continue. " But what we've shown here is that there's no point in believing". She coughed once more. "In anything you can't see for yourself.". "W-Well t-then, s-see what's b-b-behind you, Twilight!" Spike stuttered. Twilight turned around, and saw a large creature with four heads staring back at her. "I see it, but I don't believe it". she stated as the monster let out a bellowing roar. "Is that a Hydra"? Asked Pinkie Pie. "Who cares?! Run"! Yelled Applejack, as she and the others began to get away from the monster. Pinkie however was too much in shock and could only back away in fear. "Pinkie! Come on!" Cried Twilight. She ran over and grabbed Pinkie's tail before the Hydra could grab her. "Oh I'm so sorry". Fluttershy apologized to one of the frogs who was hopping away from the Hydra. The poines ran as fast as they could with each Hydra head trying to grab one. Twilight then spotted a hill up ahead. Thinking fast, she ordered them to head towards it. "Everypony up that hill"! she stated, but then she heard Spike's voice calling out. "He-e-elp!" He had gotten himself stuck in a deep part of the swamp, and the Hydra was closing in. "Coming, Spike! Hang on!" Twilight called. She manged to get to him before the Hydra could, and the two of them joined the others on the hill. "I think were gonna make it". Twilight said hopefully. "But Pinkie's still stuttering ". Spike replied. All of a sudden Pinkie Pie stopped "Oh, lookie there, it stopped". But then she started again. "O-h-h-h, t-h-e-r-e i-t i-s a-g-a-i-n!" She exclaimed as Spike began pushing her up the hill. Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie Pie walked up the hill, and saw that Fluttershy, Bertholdt, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Applejack had all stopped at the edge of a cliff with the only way across being giant stone pillars. Twilight looked back and saw the Hydra slowly making it's way up the hill. "It'll be up here in no time. Quick, one at a time, cross!" Twilight commanded. Spike was about to do that, but stopped and backed off towards Twilight. "Nyu-uh! Uh, do you know any spells for turning a hydra into a mouse?" He asked Twilight. "No". Twilight replied. "How about a squirrel"? He asked. "No". Twilight replied again. "How about". Spike was about to ask again only for Twilight to stop him "No small rodents of anykind". Twilight stated firmly. "That's too bad". Spike replied Realizing they had no other choice, Fluttershy remembered back to Pinkie's song during the day they went to ask that Dragon to move. "A hop, skip, and a... jump!" Fluttershy stated as she jumped across. Apple Bloom quickly followed after her. "Banzai"! She exclaimed. Both Fluttershy, and Apple Bloom safely made it to the other side. They were then joined by Reiner, and Bertholdt. Twilight grabbed Spike by the tail and through him on one of the pilars, and he too made his way across. Pinkie Pie almost stutterd off the cliff, but Applejack caught her. Twilight looked back and saw that the Hydra was getting closer. "It's almost here! I'll distract it, you two got". she told Applejack and Pinkie. Applejack lept across with Pinkie, as Twilight began to think of something to do. "Oh what would somepony brave like Rainbow Dash do". she asked. She figured that out easily, and charaged the Hydra letting out a war cry. The Hydra saw this and lunged it's heads towards Twilight, but she ran underneath it, causing the Hydra to fall over. "T-T-T-Twilight!" Pinkie stuttered. Twilight ran past the Hydra as it got up and continued to chase her. One the heads lunged at Twilight and tried to get her, but it hit itself on one of the pillars, resulting in all but too crumbling and collapsing. Spike, Pinkie Pie, Apple Bloom, Reiner, Fluttershy, Applejack, Bertholdt, and Twilight all gasped while the head that hit itself roared out in agony. "T-T-T-Twilight! You have to jump"! Pinkie stutters. "I'll never make it"! Twilight stated. "You'll be fine". Pinkie assured. "I will not". Twilight argued. She then looked back had the Hydra which roared angrily at her and rushed her way, "It's your only ho-o-ope! You have to take a leap of faith!" Pinkie Pie said. Twilight gulped, moved back, and ran as fast as she could. Once she was near the edge, she took a massive leap just before the Hydra could get her. Unfourtently though, she missed the pillar, and was about to fall into the muck. "Y-ugh! No! Oh no! Noooo!" But fourtently she happend to land on a very big bubble, which bounced her to the other side. "WA-A-A-AH! Ugh! Blegh!" She yelped. Everyone cheered that Twilight was safe, as Pinkie Pie went up to hug her. "I knew you could do it, Twilight!" She exclaimed happily. "That was way too close"! Apple Bloom stated. "I'll Say". Reiner replied. "Are you alright"? asked Bertholdt. Twilight nodded "Yeah, I'm fine". she stated, she then looked at Pinkie. " I don't know how it happened; coincidence, dumb luck, or what, but you said there'd be a doozy here at Froggy Bottom Bogg, and I'd say we just had ourselves one heck of a doozy. I mean that hydra—" Twilight began to say, only for Pinkie Pie to shudder again. "Pinkie"? Twilight asked in confusion. "That wasn't it". Pinkie suddendly said. "What wasn't it"? asked Spike. "What are you talkin about Pinkie"? Asked Applejack. "The Hydra wasn't the doozy". Pinkie Pie replied as the Hydra slumped away. "I'm still getting the shudders. Oo-o-oh, oo-o-oh! You see? There it is again. Whatever the doozy was at Froggy Bottom Bogg, my Pinkie Sense says it still hasn't happened." Pinkie stated. "Twilight began to spaz in confusion before finally flying into a full blown rage. "Huh? But I— WHAT?! The hydra wasn't the doozy?! How could it not be the doozy?! What could be doozier than that?!" She demanded. "Dunno, but it just wasn't it." Pinkie replied. Twilight's anger builded up more, she looked like she was about to explode. "Ms. Twilight Please Calm Down." Apple Bloom pleaded. Finally Twilight just sighed. "I give up". she stated confusing the others. "Give what up"? Asked Spike. "The fight. I can't fight it anymore. I don't understand how, why, or what, but Pinkie Sense somehow... makes sense. I don't see how it does, but it just does. Just because I don't understand doesn't mean it's not true." Twilight stated. "Y-Y-Y-You m-m-mean you b-b-b-believe?" Pinkie asked while still stuttering. "Yeah, I guess I do" Twilight admited. All of a sudden Pinkie Stopped shuddering, and gasped. "That's it! That's the doozy". she stated confusing Twilight. "What, what is"? she asked. "You believing! I never expected thatto happen! That was the doozy, oh and, oh what a doozy of a doozy it was! La-la-la-la-la...". Pinkie stated as she happily skipped away. "That is one strange Pony". Reiner whispered. "Yeah, but she's our strange Pony". Fluttershy stated. "I just wanna get home and rest". Applejack replied. She then turned to her sister. "Oh, and Apple Bloom, could you not tell Granny Smith about this, otherwise I'll never hear the end of it". Apple Bloom just nodded. Later that day Spike arrived at the libraby where Twilight, and Pinkie Pie were. "Oh, good, Spike, you're here. Take a letter." Twilight told him "With pleasure Twilight". Spike stated. "Dear Princess Celestia, I'm happy to report that" Twilight started, but stopped when she saw that Spike wasn't writing anything. "Spike, what have I been saying about focus?" She asked. "I know, but I... Well... Spike tried to say. Twilight just chuckled. "What's wrong, Spike? Never thought you'd see me with an umbrella hat on?" She asked. "Not really, no." Spike admitted. "Pinkie's tail's a-twitchin'. What else can I do?" Twilight replied. All three of them laughed as Twilight continued the letter. "I am happy to report that I now realize there are wonderful things in this world you just can't explain, but that doesn't necessarily make them any less true. It just means you have to choose to believe in them, and sometimes it takes a friend to show you the way". "Honk"! Pinkie giggled. "Honk". Spike wrote down. "Always your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle". Twilight concluded as she and Pinkie walked out of the libary Pinkie's tail twitching again. "There it goes again". She stated. "I wonder what's gonna drop out of the sky this time"? Twilight asked. "You never know". Pinkie replied. Spike opened the window and was about to send the letter, only for Princess Celestia to land infront of him and take the letter. "Twitchy tail?" he muttered as Celestia flew away "Holy guacamole"! Spike exclaimed. Preview Rainbow Dash is getting ready for a compettion in Cloudsdale, and wants to peform a Sonic Rainboom, But her nerves get the better of her when her old childhood bullies tell her she won't be able to do it. Next Episode. Sonic Rainboom. Author's Note Characters in order of Appearace Twilight Sparkle Spike Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Applejack Apple Bloom Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Crafty Crate Derpy Hooves Rainbow Dash (Flashback) Rarity (Flashback) Princess Celestia Episode 23: Sonic Rainboom: Gala arc Part 16On the outskirts of the Everfree Forest Rainbow Dash appeared to be coaching Fluttershy on something. "Now what have we learned". Dash asked. "Loss of control" Fluttershy answered. "Good". Rainbow Dash complemented. "Screaming and hollering." Fluttershy continued. "Yes, and most importantly?" Rainbow Dash asked. "Passion!" Fluttershy responeded. Rainbow Dash smiled. "Good, now that you know the elements of a good cheer, let's hear one". Rainbow Dash commanded. "Fluttershy took a deep breath, and let out a soft. "Yay". Rainbow Dash looked at her in confusion, and sighed. "... Ugh. You're gonna cheer for me like that? Louder." She ordered. "Yay". Fluttershy said just as softly as before. "Louder"! Dash ordered "Yay". Fluttershy said again, still extremely softly. "Louder"! Dash demanded. Fluttershy took a deep breath, and let out another soft. "Yaaaaaaaaay" Rainbow Dash groaned and frustration, and slumped to the ground. "Too loud"? Fluttershy asked innocently. Rainbow Dash stood atop a cloud, as Fluttershy watched from bellow. "Yay". she softly said. Rainbow Dash took a deep breath, and leaped off the cloud. Flying to the ground, and past some flowers. "And now, phase one of my routine." She flew in between several trees at an extreme speed. "Wooo". Fluttershy softly said as Rainbow Dash shot past her, and flew back up into the air. "Phase two". Dash said. She flew up to three different clouds, and flew around them, causing them to spin around like spinning tops. "Way to go." Said Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash then flew up as high as she could go. Her plan was to peform a sonic rainboom. A legendary stunt that causes a powerful blast to occur, and a rainbow to appear. Most ponies believe that it is just a legend, and no one can peform it. "Here we go. Phase three. The sonic rainboom." Rainbow Dash flew down at a high speed, the sound barrier started to break, her eyes tearing up. "C'mon". she groaned as Fluttershy watched on in anticpation, but no Rainbow Dash ultimantley failed and was lauched backwards. At the Golden Oak Libraby Twilight, Sparkle, Reiner Braun, Bertholdt Hoover, Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie had been cleaning up Twilight's books, and had just put the last one up. "Last one. Thank you so much for helping me clean up all these books, guys. It was a crazy week of studying". Twilight stated just as Rainbow Dash came crashing in, making the place a mess again. Fluttershy flew in afterwards. "Rainbow Dash, you rock! Woohoo." Fluttershy then saw the mess and gasped. "Did my cheering do that"? she asked innocently. Rainbow Dash got up and turned to the others. "Hehe. Sorry about that guys." She apologzied before turning to Fluttershy. "That was a truly feeble performance." She stated. Fluttershy, not knowing that Rainbow Dash was refering to her cheering, and not Rainbow Dash's failed sonic rainboom smiled sweetly. "Actually, it wasn't all bad. I particularly liked it when you made the clouds spin." She said innocently. Rainbow Dash groaned, and slapped her forehead. " Ugh. I'm not talking about my performance, I'm talking about yours. That feeble cheering!" Rainbow Dash scolded." "What are you two arguing about"? asked Reiner. Fluttershy looked at him confused. "We were arguing? Oh I'm sorry". she apologized. Rainbow Dash merley grunted and turned to the others. "I wish you guys could come to Cloudsdale to see me compete in the Best Young Flyer Competition." she stated. "What's that"? asked Twilight. "It's where all the greatest Pegasus flyers get together and show off their different flying styles! Some are fast!" Pinkie Pie stated. "And some are graceful. Whoa, whoa, whoa!" Pinkie Pie stated again. Unfourtenlty she wasn't very graceful. Applejack then spoke up. "Man I'd love to see you strut yer stuff in that competition." She stated. "Yeah. I wish you guys could be there. Fluttershy's a great support, but her cheering isn't exactly inspirational." Rainbow Dash replied. "Ooh! I'd love to see you make a sonic rainboom! It's like, the most coolest thing ever! Even though I've never actually seen it, but I mean come on! It's a sonic rainboom! How not cool could it possibly not be?!" Pinkie Pie said. "What's a sonic rainboom"? asked Bertholdt. "You three really need to get out more. The sonic rainboom is legendary! When a Pegasus like Rainbow Dash gets going sooo fast... Boom! A sonic boom and a rainbow can happen all at once!" Pinkie Pie explained. "And Rainbow Dash here is the only one to ever pull it off". Applejack said. "It was a long time ago... I was just a filly". Rainbow Dash stated. "Yeah, but you're gonna do it again, right?" Pinkie Pie asked excitedly. "Are... you kidding? I'm the greatest flyer to ever come out of Cloudsdale! I could do sonic rainbooms in my sleep." Rainbow Dash assured her. Hearing about the sonic rainboom made Twilight hopeful for Rainbow Dash "Wow. If you pull that off, you'll win the crown for sure!" She stated. "I'll say, that'll be something worth seeing for sure" Reiner replied. "The grand prize is an entire day with the Wonderbolts. A whole day of flying with my lifelong heroes... It'll be a dream come true!" Rainbow Dash told them. "Yay". Fluttershy softly said. Rainbow Dash turned back to the others. "I'm gonna go rest up. Don't wanna over prepare myself, y'know. Hehe." she said before turning to Fluttershy. "You, on the other hand, better keep practicing. I need a cheering section to match my spectacular performance". She told the shy pegagus before flying away. Fluttershy watched as Rainbow Dash flew away before turning back to the others. "She's practiced that move a hundred times, and she's never even come close to doing it. I don't know if I can cheer loud enough to help her." She said worriedly before flying away. After both Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy left Twilight turned to the others. "Well, guess we better get this cleaned up... again." She told them as she started to clean up the mess, only for Rarity to nudge her. "Go on, go on". Rarity urged. "Go on what"? Twilight asked in confusion. "Find a spell that will get us wingless ponies into Cloudsdale. Didn't you see how nervous she was?" Rarity explained. "Nervous? Have you spit yer bit or somethin'? She was tootin' her own horn louder than the brass section of a marching band!" Applejack firmly stated. Rarity just rolled her eyes. "Oh, puh-lease. I have put on enough fashion shows to recognize stage fright when I see it. We've got to find a way to be there for her. Now go on!" Rarity stated as she shoved Twilight into the books. "But how am I suppose to find a flight spell in all of this crap". Twilight asked. "Flight spell? One second". Pinkie Pie stated as she ran to grab a book. "Page 27". she said as she threw the book at Twilight who began looking through it. "How did you do that"? asked Applejack. "It landed on my face when Rainbow Dash knocked me into the bookcase". Pinkie Pie explained just as Twilight found the spell. "Here it is! A spell that will allow Earth ponies to fly for three days. Ooh, it looks really difficult... I'm not sure I can do it. Twilight admitted worridely. "You've got to try". Rarity insisted. "Okay, who wants to be the test subject"? Twilight asked. After thinking for a moment Rarity decieded to offer herself. "I will! For Rainbow Dash, I will go first." Rarity stated. Twilight turned to Rarity and agreed to do the spell. "Here it goes". she said as she lit up her horn, surronding Rarity. Twilight groaned and grunted as she performed the spell. Finally the spell was complete, and Rarity had a new set of wings. "I think it worked". Twilight stated. "Alright but what about the rest of us"? asked Applejack. "There is no way I can perfom that spell four more times". Twilight stated. "Well maybe there's something in that book that's eaiser". Bertholdt replied Twilight went back to the book, and began looking through it. Eventually she found a spell that looked promising. "Here's one, it allows Earth Ponies, and Unicorns to walk on clouds, and it looks fairly simple". Twilight stated. "Alright well do that one then". Reiner suggested. Twilight nodded and lit up her horn, eveloping herself, Applejack, Reiner, and Pinkie Pie in a magic light. Currently Publicly Avaliable Imformation Cloudsdale. A town located in the skys of Equestria that is home to several Pegasi. It is stated that only Pegasi have the abilty to walk on clouds. If an Earth Pony or Unicorn tried to go to walk on Cloudsdale without the help from a magic spell they would fall through the clouds. The next day was the day of the compettion. Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy were making their way to cloudsdale as Rainbow Dash was reminding Fluttershy to try and cheer louder then she did yesterday. "You've got to learn to be assertive, Fluttershy. Don't be afraid to speak up." Rainbow Dash told her as they made their way to Cloudsdale. "I know, but the thought of yelling and screaming just doesn't sit right with me". Fluttershy admited. "Well it's going to have to Fluttershy, after all you're my only support". Rainbow Dash stated. Then they heard a familar voice call out to them. "Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy wait up". Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy turned around to see Bertholdt flying after them. "Bertholdt? What are you doing here"? asked Fluttershy. "Reiner and the others suggested that I come too to help cheer Rainbow Dash on with you Fluttershy". Bertholdt stated. Rainbow Dash smiled. "Heh that's great, Now hopefully with two of my friends with me I should be able to pull this off". The three of them finally arrived at Cloudsdale and landed infront of three stalions who seemed to be waiting for them. "Well, well, well. What do we have here?" one of them asked. "It's our old friend Rainbow Crash!" Another replied as they began to laugh. "Who are they"? Bertholdt asked Fluttershy. "Hoops, Dumb-bell, and Score. The three meanest stalions in all of Cloudsdale. They always picked on Rainbow Dash, and I during our time at Flight School". Fluttershy answered. The three of them kept talking down Rainbow Dash who tried her best to ignore them. "Get kicked outta any flight schools lately?". Dumb-bell snickered as he Hoops, and Score all laughed. "I didn't get kicked out". Rainbow Dash mutterd. "Face it, Rainbow Crash. Flight school had too many rules, and not enough naptimes for you." Dumb-bell sneered. "Huh, ask her about the sonic rainboom". Hoops laughed. "That's nothing but an old mare's tale. You don't have the skills to try something like that." Dumb-bell retorted. The three of them kept laughing, and mocking Rainbow Dash, who to Bertholdt's suprise actually looked like she was about to cry. He felt something inside him, a feeling he normally didn't feel, his heart pounded as he listen to the three bullies laugh. "ENOUGH"! Rainbow Dash, Hoops, Dumb-bell Score, and Fluttershy turned and faced Bertholdt who looked up in shock, as if comprehending what he had just done. Finally Dumb-bell walked towards him. "Who are you yelling at"? he demanded as Bertholdt tried to back away. "Did you think you could beat me just because you're bigger"? Dumb-bell asked. "Uh, n-no way! You've got it all wrong". Bertholdt tried to assure that he meant nothing by his statement. Now physically yes, Bertholdt was bigger then all of them, but he wasn't much of a fighter, he'd always leave that up to Reiner. So while he could most likely beat them, he wanted to figure out a way not to. "Alright think. How can I loose on purpose and make it look real" He pondered as Dumb-bell continued. "Oh I've got it all wrong do I? Bend down, I'll punch your face nice and hard". He taunted just as Bertholdt thought of something. "I know, I'll pretend to drop a coin, bend down to pick it up, and" "Now wait just a minute"! Bertholdt was taken out of his thoughts when Fluttershy spoke up. Now everypony's attention was on her. "Oh, I'm sorry. I'm trying to be more assertive." Fluttershy apologized before continuing. "Anyhow. First of all you leave him alone". She told Dumb-bell. "And secondly Rainbow Dash will do a sonic rainboom". Fluttershy stated. Dumb-bell just scoffed. "No she won't, cause there's no such thing." "Then show up at the Cloudeseum and see for yourself! ...If you're free." Fluttershy suggested. Hoops, Dumb-bell and Score just laughed as they flew away. "Yeah I'll be free". Hoops laughed. "Oh, don't worry. We'll be there!" Dumb-bell assured Fluttershy. He then turned to Bertholdt. "And you. Watch what you say, cause next time you won't have your little girlfriend to defend you." Dumb-bell stated before flying away with his friends. After they left Fluttershy turned to Bertholdt. "Are you okay, I've never seen you act like that before". she stated. "Huh? Oh, yeah I'm fine". Bertholdt replied. Fluttershy seemed satasfied with Bertholdt's answer and smiled at him, and Rainbow Dash. "Did you see that? I was so assertive"! Fluttershy asked chipperly. Rainbow Dash didn't answer, and just sighed. "Those guys are right. I'll never be able to do it." Fluttershy just smiled and tried to reassure her. "But Rainbow Dash, just because you've failed the sonic rainboom a hundred thousand times in practice doesn't mean you won't be able to do it in front of an entire stadium, full of impatient, super-critical sportsfan ponies." She stated. However all that did was increase Rainbow Dash's worries about failing. "Aaaaah! What do I do?! Everypony's gonna see me fail! The Wonderbolts will never let a loser like me join. Princess Celestia will probably banish me to the Everfree Forest! My life is ruined! She paniced. Bertholdt looked at Fluttershy. "Uh.... Maybe that was a bit much". He stated. However Fluttershy wasn't paying attention to him, and seemed to be looking at something Rainbow Dash. "Rare"? Fluttershy meekely stated causing Rainbow Dash to stare at her. "Rare?! The sonic rainboom is way more than rare!" Rainbow Dash scolded, but Fluttershy didn't respond, she just kept looking at something behind Rainbow Dash. Curious, Bertholdt turned his gaze to where Fluttershy was looking, unlike Fluttershy, he simpled smiled "Rarity"? Fluttershy questioned, her mouth a gape Rainbow Dash turned around in confusion, and then too gasped when she saw Rarity. With a pair of what looked to be sparkling butterfly wings, and flying. "Rarity! Are you... flying?!" Rainbow Dash asked. Rarity smiled at the three ponies. "I most certainly am! Aren't my wings smashing?! Twilight made them for me. I just adore them! Why so shocked? We couldn't leave our favorite flyer without a big cheering section"! She replied. "We"? Rainbow Dash asked in confusion. Just then a hot air baloon floated up through the clouds, and out came Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and Reiner. A huge smile formed on Rainbow Dash's face seeing all her friends come to cloudsdale. "I can't believe it, you all made it". she said happily. "We sure did". Pinkie Pie replied. Rainbow Dash then turned, and saw Bertholdt smiling sheepishly. "Bertholdt? Did you know about this"? She asked. Bertholdt simply nodded. Rainbow Dash then turned back to the others, and was shocked to see her friends walking on the clouds. "Wait! How'd you do that? Only Pegasus ponies can walk on clouds." "Haha. Pretty cool, huh?" Pinkie Pie stated. "I found a spell that makes temporary wings, but it was too difficult to do more than once. So I found an easier spell that lets the rest of us walk on clouds." Twilight explained. "And we came to cheer you to victory!" Applejack stated. "We sent Bertholdt ahead, to prepare for the suprise." Reiner then added. Seeing all her friends now with her made Rainbow Dash a little more at ease now, knowing that the ponies she cared about were their to cheer her on. "To be honest, I was starting to get just the teeniest, tiniest bit nervous. But I feel a lot better now that you guys are here. Hey, we've got some time before the competition. Why don't Fluttershy and I show you around Cloudsdale?" Rainbow Dash suggested. "Yes". the others all said excitedly. Rainbow Dash led her friends into the city. "Here it is: the greatest city in the sky!" Rainbow Dash proudly declared. The others all stared in amazement at the sight, well all except Rarity. She was too busy admiring herself in the mirror as the others just stared at her. "Uhh... Some of the greatest Pegasi in history came from Cloudsdale!" Rainbow Dash explained, trying her best to ignore Rarity who just noticed that they were leaving. "Hey wait for me"! She exclaimed as she flew after the group. The group flew past some pegasi worker stailions who all stopped to gaze at Rarity's wings. "Those wings are gorgeous!" One of them said. "Why thank you". Rarity replied appreciating the complement. "Be careful with those wings, Rarity. They're made from gossamer and morning dew, and they're incredibly delicate." Twilight warned. "Don't worry, Twilight. I'm sure they can't get worn out from too much attention." Rarity insisited. Decieding it was best to ignore Rarity Applejack turned to Rainbow Dash. "Since we're up here, I'd sure like to get a look at where the weather's made." The farm pony stated. That made Rainbow Dash smile. "Great idea! C'mon, guys to the weather factory"! Rainbow Dash led the group into the part of the weather factory where the snowflakes were made. "This is where they make the snowflakes. Each one is hoofmade. As you can see, it's a delicate operation." Rainbow Dash explained. "Ooh, the snowflakes look even better from up here." Rarity admired. Her wings however created a chain reaction, which resulted in the snowflakes being blown around the room as the workers tried their best to catch them. "We better move on before Rarity ruins winter and causes a drought." Rainbow Dash declared. Rainbow Dash and the others then arrived at the Rainbow section of the Weather Factory. "And here's where they make the rainbows!" She declared. Pinkie Pie walked over to one of the fountains and stuck her hoof in it. She then licked the rainbow liquid off her hoof, only to be unplesentely greeted by a hot taste in her mouth. "Spicyyyyyy!..." Applejack bursted out laughing as Pinkie Pie ran off to cool her mouth down, while both Twilight and Reiner did their best to hold their laughter back. "Yeah, rainbows aren't really known for their flavor." Rainbow Dash stated. Then she heard Dumb-bell's voice again. Rainbow Dash turned and saw that the three builles were complementing Rarity's wings. "Whoa! Oh, where'd you get those amazing wings? I want a pair!" Dumb-bell said. "Hmm... Yeah, I guess I could see that." Rarity agreed. Dumb-bell then spotted Rainbow Dash. "Oh, hey look, it's Rainbow Crash again!" He announced. "Heheheyeah! Rainbow... Umm... Eyah... Crash!" Hoops repeted. "Rarity! What're you doing talking to these guys?" Rainbow Dash asked in other disbelief. "Oh, they were just admiring my wings, Rainbow Dash." Rarity replied. "Yeah, you should forget the sonic rainboom and just get yourself some wings like these!" Dumb-bell declared as he Hoops and Score left, laughing. Seeing Rainbow Dash was getting upset, Fluttershy turned to the others. "Uhh... C'mon, guys. Why don't we go see how clouds are made?" She sugguested before turning to Rainbow Dash. "Don't listen to them. You're gonna win that competition for sure!" Fluttershy said trying to reassure Rainbow Dash. "She's right Dash, don't let them get to you". Bertholdt stated. Rainbow Dash just sighed. "Are you kidding? I can't do the sonic rainboom, and just look at these boring, plain old feathered wings. I'm doomed!" Rainbow Dash declared as Twilight, Reiner, and Applejack all looked at each other in concern Inside the cloud room, Rainbow Dash was still moaping, meanwhile Rarity was basking in the attention her wings were giving her. "What, these old things? Go ahead, everypony. Photos are encouraged." She declared as Fluttershy, Reiner, Twilight, Applejack, and Bertholdt scowled at her, they then looked at Rainbow Dash, and saw that Rarity's boasting was doing nothing to help her anxiety. Reiner walked up to Rarity to confront her. "Rarity, we're supposed to be helping Rainbow Dash relax, remember? Put your wings away and stop showing off!" He ordered. Rarity however just ignored him, and continued to show off. "Oh, pfft. How can you ask me to put away perfection?" she stated. "Did you forget that coming here to support Rainbow Dash was your idea"? Reiner asked. "Oh Reiner, I never said that, I said let's go to Cloudsdale". Rarity replied. This made Reiner, Twilight, Bertholdt, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Applejack gasp, but Rarity was too busy enjoying the attention to notice or even care as she flew up to higher in the sky, the sunlight reflecting off her wings, and making them sparkle. "Waa-haa-haa!" Rarity laughed with excitment. Twilight walked over to Rainbow Dash, who seemed to be in the middle of a mild panic attack. "Rainbow Dash, are you okay? You don't look so good". she acknowledged. "Of course! Why wouldn't I be okay? Everyone's so in love with Rarity's wings that they won't even notice when I totally blow it in the Best Young Flyer's Competition". Rainbow Dash declared. One of the weather workers overheard that. "Hey! There's an idea! YOU should enter the competition!" She declared. "Yeah I could watch you fly all day long". said another. Rarity thought for a bit, and then smiled. "There really isn't anypony who uses their wings quite like me. Perhaps I should compete." She decieded shocking all of her friends. "WHAT"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed as the weather ponies all looked on at Rarity as she flew away. Rainbow Dash stood in disbelief at what had just transpired as Twilight, Reiner, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Bertholdt all walked up to her. "What am I gonna DO?! I'll never win the competition now..." She asked her friends. Soon it was time for the compettiton to begin. The audicene began filling in their seats, while the competitors were in a backroom getting ready. One of them went to use the washroom, only for Rarity to open the door, and bascially shoe them away. "I'm going to be a while!' She said in a sing-song voice. Rainbow Dash walked over to the curtain and peered out of it, on one of the seats she saw her friends, bellow them were the builles. Rainbow Dash gulped as the host began the show. "Fillies and gentlecolts! Please rise and join me in welcoming our beloved Princess Celestia!" He announced. The audiance all cheered as Princess Celestia herself floated down on one of the VIP seats. "Please welcome our celebrity judges for the Best Young Flyer Competition: the Wonderbolts!" The anouncer said. The crowed cheered and appluaded as the Wonderbolts arrived. "And now, let's find out who will take the prize as this year's best young flyer!" He concluded. Back stage, the contestants all got ready to go out. "Okay, contestant number one, you're up." The coach told one of the ponies. Rainbow Dash looked to see what number she was, and to her horror realized that she was next. Panicking she quickly spotted the fifth constestant. Quietly sneaking over she quickly switch their numbers just as the coach called number two. "Okay, number two, let's go." At first no one moved. "C'mon number two we don't have all day". The Coach stated. "She's talking to you!" Rainbow Dash told the pony she switched with. "Oh. Umm... Oh, I guess that's me!" the stalion stated as he went out. Rainbow Dash then switched with another pony as the coach called out the next compettetor. "Okay, number four, time to go." Rarity came out of the washroom, still getting ready. "I'm number four, and I need just one more itsy-bitsy minute. Be a dear and have somepony go ahead of me, hmm?" She suggested. "Look, I don't care who it is, but somepony's gotta go on!" The coach stated. "Let's do this!" Number Seven exclaimed. Rainbow Dash looked down, seeing she was number six began to worry. "Uhh... What am I gonna do?" She asked herself. Then she spotted number 15, and quickly switched numbers again. Outside in the audiance, the rest of the Mane Eight were watching the contest. "Reiner, and I loved number seven the best". Twilight told her friends with Reiner nodding in agreement. "Yeah, doing fifteen barrel rolls in a row can't be easy." "Our favorite was number ten". Bertholdt stated. "Yeah, she seemed like such as nice pony". Fluttershy agreeed. Applejack looked up at the course, a look of confusion briefly appearing on her face. "You alright AJ"? Asked Reiner. Applejack nodded. "Yeah, I'm just wondering". "Wondering what"? Bertholdt asked. "How come we haven't seen Rainbow Dash or Rarity yet. The competition's almost over." Applejack replied. "Hmmmm, Now that you mention it, it is kind of strange we haven't seen either of them yet". Reiner stated. Backstage Rainbow Dash was curled up in the fetal postion next to a poll trembling as the coach came up to her. "Number fifteen, let's go!" She tried to urged Rainbow Dash who refused to move. All of a sudden, the door to the wash room opened, and Rarity stepped out, all decked out in lipstick, mascara, and a new dress. "Rarity... is ready!" She announced. "Look, ladies. I don't know what to tell you. There's only time for one more performance. If you both want to compete, you'll just have to go out there together!" The coach said. Rarity smiled, and trotted over to Rainbow Dash. "Well, Rainbow Dash? Shall we?" Rarity asked. Rainbow Dash only made small babbling noises in response. Outside, the announcer called out the final contestants. "And now, for our final competitor of the day, contestant number fifteen!" He announced as Rainbow Dash slowly flew out, with Rarity following after her, confusing the announcer. "Uhh... And apparently contestant number four...". The crowd cheered for both Rainbow Dash, and Rarity. Rainbow Dash gulped nervously as Rarity turned to her. "Good luck, Rainbow Dash. Just do your best. I hope you don't mind, but I took the liberty of changing our music. That "rock and roll" doesn't really match my wings." Rarity stated as she started her reutine which consisted of her doing various twirls and leaps similar to what a ballearina would do. Rainbow Dash looked on in worry, but tried to reassure herself. "C'mon, Rainbow Dash. You can do this. Just remember the routine. Phase one." Rainbow Dash started flying in between the pilars infront of her, and things seem to be going well for awhile until she bumped into one of the pillars causing her to spin out. "Oof. Waaah!" She yelped as she crashed into one of the stands. "Nice work, Rainbow Crash!" Hoops teased as he, Dumb-bell, and Score all laughed. Rarity meanwhile continued her performance. Rainbow Dash ignored what was happening around her, and chose to continue with her routine. "Time for phase two". she mummbled. Rainbow Dash then began to spin around several clouds. "Look, phase two is working". Fluttershy pointed out. "You're right, maybe she still has a chance". Reiner replied. However, Rainbow Dash was spinning so face that it caused one of the clouds to be blown towards Princess Celestia, who quickly ducked out of the way. Rainbow Dash's anxiety was now getting worse, while Rarity was still continuing with her dance. "And now for my grand finale. I will fly right up to the sun and beam my beautiful wings over the whole city of Cloudsdale! They'll be talking about it for years!" She squealed in delight. She then ascened high into the sky. Rainbow Dash watched Rarity fly up. Realizing she only had one chance left to turn things around Rainbow Dash decieded she had to go for the final step in her routine. "Looks like this is my last chance to turn things around. Phase three. The sonic". She gulped as she thought about what she was going to do. "Rainboom, Wings, don't fail me now!" She said as she flew up after Rarity. Rainbow Dash and Rarity both flew up as high as they could go. Eventually, Rarity stopped once she was directly infront of the sun. She looked out, the view she saw was incredible. She could see all of Ponyville from the hight she was, and it was simply breath taking. "Look upon me, Equestria, for I... am... Rarity!" She announced to the crowd who ooohed and awwed at her, but then, do the the fact that she was directly behind the sun caused her wings to disentgrate. "Uh oh". Rarity mutterd, and then she began falling. (進撃 st-hrn-egt20130629 巨人 Plays) The audiance gasped in horror at the sight of Rarity falling. "Oh no! Her wings evaporated into thin air!" Twilight exclamied! Three of the Wonderbolts flew down in an attempt to rescue Rarity, but her flailing hooves knocked all of them out, now Rarity and three wonderbolts were falling to their deaths. Rainbow Dash, who had still be flying higher, heard Rarity's screams, and looked back to see the unicorn mare falling. Immeditldy, Dash flew into action. "Hold on, Rarity! I'm coming!" Rainbow Dash shouted as she flew down as fast as she could. "Oh, I can't look!" Fluttershy whimpered as she burried her face into Bertholdt's chest. Rainbow Dash flew as hard, and as fast as she could. Her eyes watering do to the speed she was going. Rarity, who was still falling, was able to notice something happening. The audiance noticed it too, and so did the rest of the Mane Eight, with Bertholdt beckoning for Fluttershy to look. When Fluttershy did open her eyes and look down, she saw Rainbow Dash speeding down towards Rarity and the knocked out wonderbolts. Then, all of a sudden, Rainbow Dash did what most thought was impossible, she pulled off a second Sonic Rainboom. When Fluttershy saw it she began cheering wildly and loudly, louder then she's ever cheered before. "A sonic rainboom! She did it! She did it! Wooo!" Rainbow Dash swooped down, and manged to catch Rarity, and the Wonderbolts just in time before they hit the ground. Dash then looked back, and saw what she did. "Whoa." She said in disbelief. When Rainbow Dash and Rarity made it back to cloudsdale everypony was cheering. "A sonic rainboom! Wooo! Yeah!" Fluttershy cheered. Tears filled Rainbow Dash's eyes as she realized that she had achived her goal of peforming a sonic rainboom. "I did it. I did it!" She stated. Rarity, who was being held up by two pegasi do to the loss of her wings, smiled at Rainbow Dash. "You sure did. Oh thank you, Rainbow Dash. You saved my life!" Rarity said her voice filled with gratitude. "Oh yeah. I did that too. Ha, best day ever!" Rainbow Dash replied. Later, Rarity was back in the hot air balloon apologzing to the others. "I want to apologize to all of you for getting so carried away with my... beautiful wings. I guess I just lost my head." "It's okay". said Fluttershy "We forgive you". Replied Bertholdt. "Oh, don't worry about it,". Applejack stated. "It's all good". Reiner reassured. "We still love you". Pinkie Pie smiled. Rarity smiled back at her friends, and then turned to Rainbow Dash. "And I'm especially sorry that I was so thoughtless as to jump into the contest at the last minute after you had worked so hard to win it. Can you ever ever forgive me?" Rarity asked. "Aw, it's okay. Everything turned out all right, right?" Rainbow Dash stated. She then let out a small sigh. "What's wrong Rainbow"? asked Reiner. "I just wish I could have met the Wonderbolts when they were awake." Rainbow Dash admitted. She looked down in disappointment. "Uh, I don't think you have to worry about that". Bertholdt stated. Rainbow Dash looked up in confusion at Bertholdt, and then felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned to see Spitfire, captain of the wonderbolts smiling at her, along with two other members, Soarin, and Misty Fly. "Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!" Rainbow Dash could barley contain her excitment. Spitfire smiled. "So you're the little pony who saved our lives. We really wanted to meet you, and say thanks." She told Rainbow Dash, who was still in complete shock. "Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!" Princess Celestia then flew down to greet them. "Princess". Twilight greeted. "Hello Twilight Sparkle, and to your friends too". Celestia greeted them. Rarity looked over in shame. "Princess Celestia, I am sorry I ruined the competition. Rainbow Dash here really is the best flyer in Equestria." She apolgized. Princess Celestia smiled. "I know she is, my dear. That's why, for her incredible act of bravery and her spectacular sonic rainboom, I'm presenting the grand prize for Best Young Flyer to this year's winner, Miss Rainbow Dash!" The crowd all cheered. "Ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. Celestia then turned to Twilight. "So Twilight Sparkle, did you learn anything about friendship from this experience?" " I did Princess, but I think Rarity learned even more than me." Twilight stated. Rarity nodded. "I certainly did. I learned how important it is to keep your hooves on the ground, and be there for your friends." "Excellent, well done Rarity". Celestia replied. "This really is the best day ever!" Dash smiled. Then she looked behind her to see Hoops, Dumb-bell, and Score standing a few feet away. "Uhh, hey, Rainbow Crash." Dumb-bell said meekly before being nudged by Hoops. "Dash"! Hoops corrected. "Oh! Uhh... Sorry. Rainbow Dash. Uhh, we just wanted to congratulate you on winning the competition." Dumb-bell stated. "That sonic rainboom was awesome". Hoops said. "Heh, thanks guys". Rainbow Dash replied. "Uhh, we're really sorry we gave you such a hard time before." Dumb-bell apolgized. "Aww, that's okay. Don't worry about it." Rainbow Dash forgave them "Hey. Do you want to hang out with us? Maybe you could show us how you did that incredible trick!" Dumb-bell asked. Rainbow Dash smiled, but she had to refuse the offer. "Sorry boys, but I got Plans". Rainbow Dash stated as she flew off with the Wonderbolts. Preview Thinking it will be easy, Fluttershy offers to watch the Cutie Mark Crusaders for the night, but she soon learns that taking care of three little filles might be a little harder then she thought. Next Episode. Stare Master Author's Note Characters in Order of Apperance Rainbow Dash Fluttershy Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Pinkie Pie Rarity Applejack Bertholdt Hoover Derpy Hooves Hoops Dumb-bell Score Steam Roller Rainbowshine Foggy Fleece Madden Princess Celestia Lucy Packard Spitfire Soarin Misty Fly Meadow Song Episode 24: Stare Master: Gala arc Part 17Inside Carosuel Botique, Sweetie Belle watched as Rarity franticly searched for an item she needed for a project she was working on. "Ohh, and I can't forget I've got to... oh, how am I ever gonna get this done?" Rarity panicked as Sweetie Belle watched on. "Are you sure I can't help? I could". Sweetie Belle began to offer, only for Rarity to shoot her down. "No!" Rarity scolded firmly. "Maybe just a". Sweetie Belle tried to say again. "No thanks"! Rarity stated again. Again Sweetie Belle tried to offer her help. "How About"? "Just stand over there"! Rarity demanned. "But—" Sweetie Belle started "Where you'll be out of the way"! Rarity shouted as she went back to looking for what she needed. "Ribbon, ribbon! Where's the ribbon?!" Rarity wondered franticly. "I got it"! Sweetie Belle exclaimed as she found where the ribbion was. However when she tried to reach for it Sweetie Belle ending up knocking over the the display it was on creating a big mess. Sweetie Belle looked up at Rarity and chuckled nervously. "Um, I-I'll just go and stand over there, where I'll be... out of the way." Sweetie Belle stated as she moved into the corner while Rarity sighed. Rarity spent the next several minutes sorting out the mess while Sweetie Belle once again offered her help. "Won't you at least let me help you clean up?" She asked. "No, you've helped quite enough already". Rarity insisted. "I'm sorry, sis! I just thought that if I could help, I might find my special gift and finally earn my cutie mark." Sweetie Belle apologized. Rarity sighed. "I understand. It's just that... I need this time to fill this order without any... complications. Okay, all done. Now, back to work. I've lost a lot of time, and I cannot have any more interruptions". All of a sudden the doorbell rang. "Oh what now"?! Rarity groaned as Fluttershy walked in, but soon began to step out after hearing Rarity complain "Oh, sorry. I thought the "open" sign meant you were open, but I must have been mistaken." Fluttershy said innocentlly. Seeing that it was Fluttershy, Rarity's mood instantily changed. "Fluttershy! Forgive me! I was so wrapped up in my work that I forgot you were bringing Opalescence back from her grooming"! Fluttershy Smiled. "No worries, Rarity. I've left her there in the basket." Fluttershy assured as the cat came out of the basket. "Oh, she looks great! I just don't understand how you're able to do it! I can't get near her without getting a swipe from her claws." Rarity stated as she tried to get a closer look only for Opal to his at her. Rarity jumped back. "Ahh! Did you use... the Stare on her?" Rarity asked. Fluttershy gasped in shock that Rarity would ask her such a question. "Oh, no! I wouldn't! I couldn't! I-I don't really have any control over when that happens. I-It just happens. No, I'm just good with animals. It's my special gift, you know?" Fluttershy stated. "Well, you should have a picture of Opal as a cutie mark instead of those butterflies." Rarity laughed. The conversation between Fluttershy, and Rarity gave Sweeite Belle an idea. "Ooh, ooh, oh, oh, oh, oh! Maybe I can be good with animals, too!" She suggested. Only for Opal to shice off a peace of her hair. "Or not." Sweetie Belle chuckled nervously as she backed away. Fluttershy and Rarity both laughed. "I'm sorry I can't invite you to stay and chat, Fluttershy. I've bitten off a bit more than I can chew with this order." Rarity apologized. This statment confused Sweetie Belle. "But you're not eating anything." "No, Sweetie, it's an expression. It means that I've taken on more work than I can handle. I've got twenty of these special robes to make tonight! They're due in Trottingham tomorrow morning." Rarity explained as she showed Fluttershy what she was working on. "See? I've lined them in a special gold silk. It took so long to make, but I think it adds just the right touch, don't you?" Rarity asked. "These are lovely, but twenty by tonight? How will you get it all done?" Fluttershy asked. "Well, I, uh..." Rarity actually hadn't thought about what she was going to do in order to complete this project. "Oh, oh, oh! Maybe I could..." Sweetie Belle began, only for Rarity to glare at her. "just... just stand over here and watch." Sweetie Belle chuckled as she trotted over to the corner. "I'll mange". Rarity stated. Just then Scootaloo walked in. "Hi, Fluttershy! Hi, Rarity!" She greeted. "Oh! Hello, uh Scootaloo". Rarity greeted as Scootaloo went over to Sweetie Belle. "Hey Sweetie"! Scootaloo greeted "Scootaloo!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed excitedly. "Um, is Apple Bloom with you Scootaloo"? Rarity asked. "Yeah, she's on her way up now, but she had to take care of something first." "What exactly"? Fluttershy asked. "That, I actually don't know. All she said was "Head over to Rarity's I'll catch up with you in a bit". When I asked why she just said she needed to take care of something". Scootaloo replied. Then Apple Bloom walked in. "Hi Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo". She greeted her new friends. "Good evening Ms. Rarity, Ms. Fluttershy." Apple Bloom greeted the two older ponies. "Where did you go"? Asked Scootaloo. "Oh, Mr. Davenport had a small accident in his shop, nothing mager just dropped a few items and I helped him clean up". Apple Bloom explained. "Oh. Well anyways are you two ready for tonight"?! Scootaloo asked. "Yup! Cutie mark planning session is a go!" Sweetie Belle replied. "Tonight is the night we each try to find our own special talent." Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Even if it takes us all night"! Scootaloo proclaimed. "I'm ready, are you ready"? Apple Bloom asked Scootaloo. "Very ready"! Scootaloo replied. "Cutie Mark Crusader sleepover at Rarity's! Yay!" The CMCs all cheered. "And... look what I made us!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed as she pulled out three red capes with blue patches on them. Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Fluttershy were all amazed by Sweetie Belle's work. "Wow! That's so amazing". Apple Bloom complemented. "They're lovely. What does that patch mean"? Fluttershy asked. "The cutie mark crusaders! Yay!" The filles all cheered. "We're on a crusade, a mission!" Scootaloo replied. "To discover our special talents". Apple Bloom replied. "Yup. And look. I lined them with this special gold silk. It took sooo long to make, but I think it adds just the right touch, don't you?" Sweetie Belle asked as she showed them the golden inteior of the capes. "Oooooh!" Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Fluttershy all said in amazment. However their amazment was interuptted by Rarity shouting in horror. "Sweetie Belle! What have you done? That was the last of the gold silk! Oh, now I'll have to make more! Oh, I hope I can make more. I'm gonna have to work all night! Which means... Sorry, girls, I'm afraid the Crusaders sleepover is cancelled." Rarity stated with remorse. "What"?! Sweetie Belle exclaimed in shock. "I just won't have any time to watch you if I want to get these robes delivered on time." Rarity explained. "But"! Sweetie Belle began only for Rarity to stop her. "No buts! I'm sorry Belle, but this is just how things have to be". Rarity apologized. "Awwww". The crusaders said sadly. Seeing the dissapointment in their eyes Fluttershy knew she had to do something. "I, uh, I suppose I could take them for the night." She offered. "I couldn't ask you to do that." Rarity quickly declined. Fluttershy however was insisted that she do it. "It's really no trouble at all". She pointed out. Rarity looked up at Fluttershy. "It wouldn't be a problem with Apple Bloom that's for sure, but have you met Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo? A problem is all it would be". Rarity stated. "HEY"! Both Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo said offensivley while Apple Bloom tried to stiffle back a giggle. Fluttershy stared directly at Rarity with a serious look on her face. "Did I have trouble with Opal?" She asked. "Well.... No". Rarity replied. "Exactly, and you've seen how I do with small animals, I'm sure three filles would be no different". Rarity thought for a moment. "Fluttershy does have a point, and I do have alot to do, plus the Crusaders were looking forward to this for a while, and Fluttershy did just make things a bit eaiser for me". After a few miniutes of thinking it over Rarity looked up at Fluttershy "Are you sure you can handle this"? She asked. "Come on, it'll be fun". Fluttershy insisted. "I assure you they're qutie a handful". Rarity stated "These little angles"? Fluttershy asked as the filles all smiled. "That might be true with Apple Bloom". Rarity mumbeld under her breath. "What was that"? Asked Fluttershy "Nothing"! Rarity quickly stated. She then looked between Fluttershy, and the Crusaders. Finally, she sighed. "Well... all right." Rarity finally relented. The Crusaders all lit up at that. "Cutie Mark Crusader sleepover at Fluttershy's cottage! Yay!" They cheered as they ran out the door. "So Cute." Fluttershy cooed before realiezing they were already out the door. "W-wait for me!" She called after them. "Hmmmm, I wonder if Fluttershy can handle this, well hopefully Apple Bloom can help keep Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo in check". Rarity said to herself before going to continue her work. As the crusaders ran ahead Fluttershy followed behind them, eagerly going on about the fun they were going to have. "Oh, won't this be ever so fun? We can have a nice little tea party, and braid each others' tails, and sit quietly and color, and tell each other fairy tales, and—" Fluttershy stopped when she saw that Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were still running on ahead. Apple Bloom however had stopped and trotted back over to Fluttershy. "Sorry Ms. Fluttershy, were you saying something"? Apple Bloom asked. "Oh. No". Fluttershy replied. Apple Bloom looked up at her, but didn't press on any further. The two of them walked side be side in silence for a bit before Fluttershy spoke up. "So Apple Bloom, are you exicted for tonight"? She asked. Apple Bloom nodded her head. "You betcha I am for the first time in my life I feel like I have actual friends". Apple Bloom stated happily. Hearing that made Fluttershy's heart break as she recalled how Diamond Tiara and Silverspoon would bully Apple Bloom, and how she would mostly be alone at school. Still though, Fluttershy had to wonder about Twist, and so she asked. "But, what about Twist, weren't you friends with her"? Apple Bloom looked up at Fluttershy. "Twist is more of an in school friend instead of an out of school friend, and plus, we've kinda been drifting apart since she got her cutie mark." Apple Bloom replied. Fluttershy looked down. She was about to say something when both she and Apple Bloom heard a crash, and giggling. The two of them looked to see that Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo ran past a very dizzy looking Reiner Braun. He was then joined by Twilight Sparkle, and Bertholdt Hoover just as he composed himself. The three of them smiled at the two giggling filles just as Fluttershy, and Apple Bloom "Hello Fluttershy, Apple Bloom". Twilight greeted them. "Hello Twilight, Mr. Braun, and Mr. Hoover". Apple Bloom greeted politely as she and Fluttershy walked up to them. Fluttershy noticed they seemed to be heading somewhere. "Where are three going"? she asked. "We're going heading to the Everfree Forest to Zecora's place". Reiner stated. Twilight nodded. "Yeah, I'm getting some of my favorite type of tea, and Reiner, and Bertholdt agreed to come with me". As the older ponies talked, Apple Bloom went over to Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Back with the others Fluttershy shuddered at the thought of what they had said. "Th-The Everfree Forest? Ah, you'll be careful, won't you?" "Of course"! Bertholdt replied, but now he had a question of his own. "How about you? What are you doing with the girls"? He asked. "Rarity has a big order to fill tonight, so I volunteered to take the girls over to my cottage for a sleepover." Fluttershy replied. "Wow. Sounds like everypony has their hooves full today." Twilight stated. "I'll say". Reiner responded as he looked over at the CMCs. "Taking care of those three fillies all by yourself? You sure you can handle it?" He asked. "What? These sweet little angels? They'll be no problem at all." As Apple Bloom, Sweete Belle, and Scootaloo came back over, and smiled. Currently Publicly Available Imformation Cockatrices. Dangerous cretures from the Everfree Forest. They are part Chicken, part snake, and have the abilty to turn any creature into stone by staring at them. After about twenty minutes of walking, Fluttershy, and the Crusaders finally arrived at Fluttershy's cottage. Once inside, the CMCs were amazed "Woah, you take care of all these critters"? Apple Bloom asked in amazement. Fluttershy smiled, and nodded. "Most of them were injuried so badly that they couldn't go back out into the wild". She explained. Apple Bloom was about to ask another question when she heard Sweetie Belle exclaim "Wow! Look at this place! What's that? Are those chickens?" Apple Bloom went over to where Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were, and soon all three of them were talking over each other. Fluttershy thought back to what both Rarity, and Reiner had said. "No problem at all". She mummbled to herself before trying to get the CMCs attention. "Okay, girls, uh, what should we do?" She asked. However Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo weren't listening as they were too busy arguing. "I'm going to get my cutie mark first"! Scootaloo stated. "Nuh-uh!" Sweetie Belle retorted. "Girls"? Fluttershy tried to call again. "Yes way"! Scootaloo argued. "No way"! Sweetie Belle yelled back. "Should we—" Fluttersy tried again, but Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo kept on arguing. "Please settle down". Fluttershy begged. It seemed the fight was beginning to get out of hand, when all of a sudden. "Sweetie Belle! Scootaloo"! The two filles turned to Apple Bloom who was glaring at them. "There's no need to be arguing, we are ment to be guess here". She told them sternley. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo both looked down in shame. "Okay". They both mummbled. Apple Bloom smiled, and turned back to Fluttershy. "Thank you for doing this for us Ms. Fluttershy, I'm sorry if we're being a bit overwhelming". She apologized. Fluttershy smiled. "Oh, no problem at all Apple Bloom, and don't worry, like I said. I got this". Fluttershy replied. All of a sudden Scootaloo shouted. "Im staying up all night"! That got Sweetie Belle, and even Apple Bloom who was normaly the calm one collective one of the three exicted. "Me too"! Sweetie Belle exclaimed "Ooh! I wanna stay up all night too"! Apple Bloom exclaimed happily as she stood next to Fluttershy, who was trying to calm the girls down. "I-I know you're excited, but—" Fluttershy noticed that the Crusaders excitment were causing things to be knocked around. "Oh, oh, careful with the— oh, ah, girls—" Fluttershy, realizing she needed to speak louder took a deep breath. "So! What do you wanna do? Play a game?" She asked them. "We are the cutie mark crusaders"! Scootaloo stated. "And we want to crusade for our cutie marks!" Sweetie Belle replied. "And, and, and, we, um— yeah! What they said!" Apple Bloom repeated. "Mmm, I don't know... how about a nice quiet little tea party"? Fluttershy suggested. "Or... we could go adventuring in the Everfree Forest!" Scootaloo counterd. That got both Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom excited. "Yeah"! They both exclaimed. However Fluttershy was quick to turn them down. "Oh, no! The Everfree Forest is much too dangerous. It's filled with far too many strange creatures." She explained. Apple Bloom looked up at Fluttershy and sighed hevaily. "I guess you're right about that". She replied. "But you could go with us and we could catch those creatures. We could be, umm... creature catchers!" Sweetie Belle stated. "Yeah". Scootaloo replied. "Yay! Cutie Mark Crusader creature catchers!" The CMCs all cheered. Scootaloo then went over, and grabbed some blankets. She gave one to Apple Bloom, and the two of the pretened to be a scary monster from the Everfree Forest. "Arrrr! I am a dangerous creature from the Everfree Forest! Rrrarr!" Scootaloo roared. Sweetie Belle smiled and got into a fighting stance. "Halt, dangerous creature of the Everfree Forest. I am Sweetie Belle, the creature catcher, and I'm here to catch you!" She proclaimed. "You can never catch me! I am far too powerful and dangerous!" Scootaloo announced. "You cannot outrun me". Exclaimed Sweetie Belle. The three fillies started to chase each other around the cottage, laughing and giggling, while Fluttershy was trying to calm them down. "Um, oh, maybe that's not such a— now, girls, how about we do some nice coloring? Doh—". The girls however were having too much fun to hear Fluttershy. "Come back, dangerous creature, so I can catch you"! Sweetie Belle called after Scootaloo. "Never"! Scootaloo refused! All while Apple Bloom was just laughing and giggling. For once she actually felt like she was having fun. The three fillies continued to chase each other while Fluttershy tried to get them to slow down. "Careful... you don't..." Fluttershy tried to call out, but it was too late. The girls crashed into a table causing it to shatter. Apple Bloom gasped in horror when she saw the damage. "Sorry". She apologized. "Yeah sorry". Scootaloo also aplogized. "I guess we aren't creature catchers." Sweetie Belle muttered sadly Fluttershy gave the girls a soft smile. "Oh, girls, it's okay. I—" She began only to be interuppted by Apple Bloom. "I know! We could be Cutie Mark Crusader carpenters!" The little farm filly exclaimed "C-carpenters"? Fluttershy asked nervously as the crusaders began working on fixing the table they broke. "Hammer'! Apple Bloom demanded. "Hammer." Scootaloo said handing Apple Bloom a hammer. "Hammer". Sweetie Belle repeated. "Hammer. Hammer! ...Hammer." Scootaloo said three more times. The girls began to work on the table, however once they were done the results were less then pleasing. "Um ... that doesn't look like a table." Sweetie Belle said unimpressed. "We were building a table"? Scootaloo asked. "Yes"! Sweetie Belle replied in a somewhat annoyed matter. Apple Bloom just looked down, feeling extremley guilty that they had already broken something of Fluttershy's after only being in her cottage for not even five minutes. "Sorry". Apple Bloom said sadly. Fluttershy gave Apple Bloom a small smile. "Oh Apple Bloom don't worry about it". Fluttershy said reassuringly. Besides I have another game we could all play together". Fluttershy then suggested. This peaked the curiosty of the three fillies. "What's the game called"? asked Apple Bloom. "It's called "Shhh!" Fluttershy said. "What's that"? Questioned Scootaloo. "Well, it's a game about who can be quiet the longest. Sound fun? I'm the world champ, you know. I bet you can't beat me!" Fluttershy teased. She then stopped talking, and encourged the crusaders to join in. However the three of them found the game to be quite boring. "I lose"! Scootaloo shouted. "Me too"! exclaimed Sweetie Belle. Apple Bloom hesitated for a bit, but ulitmately decieded to go with Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "Sorry Fluttershy". she said. Fluttershy just sighed, and smiled. "Okay, now what can we do?" Apple Bloom asked. Scootaloo thought for a bit, and then an idea flew into her brain. "How about Cutie Mark Crusader coal miners?" She suggested. "Oooh yeah!" Sweetie Belle agreed. "Um, is that safe"? Apple Bloom asked. "No!" Fluttershy exclaimed. causing the three fillies to look back at her. "Awwww!" The CMC complained. Fluttershy sighed. "I mean, it's time for bed, don't you think? Aren't you excited to get all toasty and warm in your snuggly-wuggly widdle beds?" The fillies gave Fluttershy a strange look. "Um Fluttershy, You know we're the three of us are twelve years old right"? Asked Apple Bloom. Fluttershy blushed in embarrsasment, and let out a nervous chuckle. "Heh, sorry". Soon the crusaders were all tucked into the bed Fluttershy had set for them upstairs. As they were getting ready Apple Bloom pulled something out of her bag. "What's that"? Asked Scootaloo. "Oh this? This is wolfy, my stuffed wolf I had since I was a baby". Apple Bloom stated as she showed them the plush. "You still sleep with it"? Asked Scootaloo. Apple Bloom nodded. "Well, yeah, but's it's only in certain situations. Like this one, I mean we aren't in are own beds in our own homes". "I guess your right about that". Scootaloo admitted. Fluttershy couldn't help but smile. "Hey, how about I sing you three a lullaby so you can get tired". she suggested. "I guess that wouldn't hurt". Apple Bloom replied. Fluttershy smiled and cleared her throat. She then started singing a soft ballad. "Hush now, quiet now It's time to lay your sleepy head Hush now, quiet now It's time to go to bed" As Fluttershy sang, both Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom began to drift off. Sweetie Belle however perked up when she heard Fluttershy singing. "I know this one". The Little Unicorn filly stated excitedly. Fluttershy smiled. "Great why don't you sing with me". she suggested. Realizing that Sweetie Belle was going to sing Scootaloo covered her ears. This confused Apple Bloom, but Scootaloo beckoned for her to do the same. Unsure of what was about to happen Apple Bloom did what Scootaloo suggested. The little earth filly soon realized why Scootaloo had covered her ears, because instead of singing the soft ballad Fluttershy was singing Sweetie Belle instead started to sing a loud heavy metal rock verison of the song. "Hush now! Quiet now! It's time to lay your sleepy head! Said hush now! Quiet now! It's time to go to bed!" Fluttershy who was now also covering her ears tried to get Sweetie Belle to calm down. "Okay Sweetie, that was..." But her words fell on deaf ears as Sweetie Belle kept singing. "Driftin' (driftin') off to sleep! Exciting day behind you! Driftin' (driftin') off to sleep! Let the joy of dream land find you!" Thank you Belle, um... Fluttershy again tried to get Sweetie Belle to stop. "Hush now! Quiet now! Lay your sleepy head! Said hush now! Quiet now! It's time to go to bed!" Sweetie Belle finally stopped when she fell off the bed. "Ow"! She yelped. The noise had frighted Fluttershy's chickens, who were now all running around like their heads had been chopped off. "What's that"? asked Scootaloo. Fluttershy had just finshied placing everything back, and turned around only to see the Crusaders gone. "Girls"! She gasped, and ran to the window to see them watching the chickens. "Fluttershy, your chickens are on the loose"! Apple Bloom announced. "I wonder what caused that"? Asked Sweetie Belle, which caused Apple Bloom to glare at her. "Oh, heh heh. Right". Sweetie Belle chuckled nerously. Don't worry, we'll catch em"! Scootaloo stated. "Cutie Mark Crusader chicken herders! Yay!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed as the crusaders ran off the gather the chickens. "No, I don't think that's a— ah, come back! Please!" Fluttershy tried to protest, but the CMCs weren't listening, they were too busy giggling, and chasing the chickens, which only frightend the birds even more. Fluttershy quickly flew into the pen and attempted to defuse the situation. "Come on, girls, the chickens are fine— oh, girls, um..." Fluttershy tried to get their attention, but to no avail as one chicken landed on her head. "Girls"! Fluttershy exlcaimed. Finally loosing her patinces. The crusaders and chickens all stopped in their tracks. Fluttershy then procceded to move the chickens, back to their pen. "Come on, in you go." She ordered them. However the chickens didn't want to go in, so Fluttershy used the stare on them. That got the chickens to go inside. "There's some good chickens". Fluttershy giggled. She tehn turned to the CMCs, and walked up to them. Apple Bloom, feeling ashamed of the trouble she and the girls had caused looked up at Fluttershy. "I'm real sorry Fluttershy, I don't know what came over me. I guess I just got real exicted to earn my cutie mark. "We all did". Sweetie Belle said. "Yeah, sorry Fluttershy". Scootaloo apologized. Fluttershy smiled at the three. "It's okay girls. Now why don't you head back to bed". "But"! The crusaders began to protest. "Please"? Fluttershy sweetly asked. The children sighed and reluceantly went back to bed. Once again they were tucked in. "So, no more crusading for tonight, all right?" Fluttershy asked. "Yes Fluttershy". Replied Scootaloo. "We promise". Said Sweetie Belle. "Goodnight Fluttershy". Apple Bloom yawned. With that, Fluttershy left the bedroom. However once she was gone Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle both opened their eyes. Apple Bloom however was actually asleep, so Sweetie Belle had to shake her awake. "Apple Bloom, wake up". Sweetie Belle nudged. "Huh, what"? Apple Bloom asked groggaly. "Come on let's see what kind of crusading we can do next". Sweetie Belle said. Apple Bloom looked at her in confusion. "But Fluttershy said we need to go to bed". "Come on Apple Bloom, don't you remember how hard you've been working to get your cutie mark"? Scootaloo asked. Apple Bloom pondered Scootaloo's question. You'll always be a. BLANK FLANK!" She remembered Diamaond Tiara, and Silverspoon telling her. "I guess you got a point, but". Apple Bloom began, only for Scootaloo to interupt her. "Good! Now lets figure out what our next move should be". Apple Bloom got up, and walked over to the window. She peeared out, and stared at the chicken coup. "Somethings off, didn't Fluttershy shut the pen when before she came back inside with us". She ponderd. All of a sudden reality hit Apple Bloom like a ton of bricks. "Hey, girls! Look! Some of the chickens may have escaped"! Apple Bloom told Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo who came over to the window. "And they must have gone into the forest". Sweetie Belle said "I'll go tell Fluttershy, and then she can head back to Sweet Apple Acres to get help from Applejack, and Big Mac"! Apple Bloom suggested, as she rushed to head downstairs, only for Scootaloo to block her path. "No, don't you see Apple Bloom this is our chance". "What do you mean"? Apple Bloom asked. "If we can go rescue the chickens ourselves were bond to get our cutie marks". Scootaloo explained. "Cutie Mark Crusaders chicken rescuers yay"! Sweetie Belle cheered. Apple Bloom was pretty heisatant to go however. "I don't know, I". Apple Bloom stopped mid-sentence when she saw Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo already sneaking out the window. "Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo what are you doing". She asked. "Come on Apple Bloom, that chicken isn't going to find itself"! Scootaloo told her. "But Fluttershy said"! Apple Bloom began only to see Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo heading into the forest. "Oh why do I even bother". Apple Bloom said to herself as she climbed out the window, and followed after her friends. "Wait for me"! She called out to them. Meanwhile back in the cottage, Fluttershy was resting on the couch, feeling quite satisfied with herself. "It really wasn't that hard ... I mean, all I needed to do was just show them who's in charge. Nothing's gonna get past Fluttershy! Good with animals, good with kids." Some minutes passed, and Fluttershy had dozed off on the couch. "Mmm, peace and quiet." she murrmed to herself as she continued to sleep. That was until she realized something. "Too quiet." Fluttershy gasped. Without wasting a second, Fluttershy flew up to the room where she left the CMCs only find it empty. In a panic Fluttershy Flew out the window. "Girls?! Girls"?! She called. Fluttershy then walked over to her chicken coup. "Elizabeak! She's missing"! Fluttershy realized. "Girls"?! She called again. It was then she noticed both chicken footprints, and hoofprints heading into the direction of the forest. "Oh, no! They must have gone looking for my missing chicken! Which means... they must have gone into... The Everfree Forest". Fluttershy shuttered. Fluttershy felt a wave of emotions float through her body. Anger, Worry, Fear, and Regret. "Those girls have really done it this time! They've really bitten off more than they can chew! Oh, just like me! I never should have offered to watch them". She said to herself. She remebered her father, and mother telling her to be careful, and to not end up like her brother, but now she felt like that's what was happening. But Fluttershy soon forgot about the memories of the past and realized that she had to go after them, and so she ventured out into the forest. Meanwhile, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom were all in the forest searching for the lost chicken. Apple Bloom however was still saying that they should turn back. "Come on you two I really think we shouldn't be out hear". However, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were too busy arguing to listen to her, for Sweetie Belle had been trying to call for the chicken. "Here, chick-chick-chick-chick-chick! Brawck, bawk-bawk-bawk, brawck!" Sweetie Belle called. "What are you doing"? Asked Scootaloo. "Calling for the chicken". Sweetie Belle replied. "That's not how you call a chicken". Scootaloo stated. "Oh and I suppose you know how too"? Sweetie Belle asked. "I know that isn't the way". Scootaloo retorted. "Then show me"! Sweetie Belle demanded. "I don't have too"! Scootaloo retorted. "You're just chicken". Sweetie Belle replied. "Am Not!" Yelled Scootaloo. Then Sweetie Belle decieded to mock Scootaloo. "Oh, wait, now I know how to call a chicken! Scootaloo! Scoot-scootalooooo!" She started up. "That's so funny I forgot to laugh". Scootaloo said sarcasticly "You also forgot how to call a damn chicken"! Sweetie Belle mocked. "Why you". Scootaloo began, looking about ready to pounce on Sweetie Belle until Apple Bloom spoke up from behind. "Come on, guys, we're not gonna find the chicken or our cutie marks by arguin". Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo just looked at each other. "Maybe that's are special talent, aruging". Sweetie Belle suggested. "Is not"! Scootaloo stated. "Is too"! Sweetie Belle retorted. The two of them went back and force, as Apple Bloom just sighed. She decieded to take a quick scan of the area to see if she could spot the chicken, or anything in this forest. We really should keep an eye out, anything could be in this place waiting to pounce on us". She said in her head as she continued to Scan the trees. Then she spotted something. Apple Bloom squinted her eyes to make out what it was. "Hello"? She called out. After squinted harder her eyes manged to adjust to her surrondings, and she saw something that made her gasp. It was the pegagus filly she saw in her dream. Apple Bloom rubbed her eyes to make sure she wasn't seeing things, and when she looked again she saw the little girl was still there. However just as she was about to go over to ask who she was, the filly galloped off into the forest, and Apple Bloom knew better then to not chase after her. "Could that dream have meant more then I actually thought it did"? She thought to herself. "Hey Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo". Apple Bloom was about to ask her friends if they had seen the filly as well, but when she looked she noticed that they had already gone ahead and left her behind. "Oh goddamnit"! She said in anger, as she ran to catch up with them. Meanwhile Fluttershy was wondering through the forest trying to find the CMCs and get out of there as fast as possible. "Girls"? she called in a whisper. She got no answer, so she called again. "Girls"? Again no reply, but she heard a scary noise which caused her to yelp. "Oh! Get a hold of yourself, Fluttershy. Just put one hoof in front of the other." She muttered, but as she backed up she bumped into a tree, causing her to jump, then she heard a noise and screamed. She started to run away. As she ran she noticed someone ahead of her. Throught the darkness Fluttershy saw that who ever it was looked like Twilight. "Twilight? I-Is that you"? She asked. Once Fluttershy got close enough she saw that it was infact her friend. "Oh, Twilight, it is you. Thank goodness you're here. I need your help. The girls are out here somewhere, and I'm afraid that they're—" Fluttershy began to explain, however she soon realized something wasn't quite right, and when the moonlight shone Fluttershy gasped in horror. Twilight had been turned into stone. "Oh! What's happened to you"? She asked in fear. Then she saw Bertholdt. He had suffered the same fate as Twilight. "Oh no! If you two have been turned to stone, then that means". Fluttershy couldn't bring herself to finish that sentence, the realization hitting her that a horrible creature was lurking in the forest. She turned to Twilight, and Bertholdt's stoned bodies. "Don't move you two, I'll be right back". She assured them, and ran off. "Girls! Girls!". She called but got no answer. "Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo"! She called out again, but still no answer. "Reiner!" She hadn't seen him stoned so she hoped he had escaped, but again she got no reply. Elsewhere, Apple Bloom was trying to catch up to Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo, all the while muttering to herself. "Let's going into the forest and catch that chicken they said. It'll be fine they said". Apple Bloom grumbled. "You know the chicken would have been found by now if we just told Fluttershy, and then asked Applejack, and Big Mac for help"! she shouted into the forest, but got no reply in response. "Of course, now I'm talking to myself". she grumbled bitterly. Just then she heard russleting in the bushes. Something was coming. Squinting her eyes, Apple Bloom looked through the bushes trying to get a look at whatever was coming. She even picked up a stick for saftey meassures. She moved closer to the bush, and brought the branch over her head, and when the creature came out of the bushes Apple Bloom whacked it hard on the head. When she did she heard a voice yell out "OW WHAT THE HELL"! Apple Bloom looked, and saw Reiner Braun on the ground rubbing the back of his head. "Reiner? What are you doing here"? Apple Bloom asked as Reiner got up. "What am I doing here? I should be asking you that"! Reiner exclaimed "Why are you out here, and not with Fluttershy"? He demanded to know. "Well, you see". Apple Bloom began. She then began to explain the whole story. "And when I looked up Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were gone". Apple Bloom finshed. "So instead of listening to you, they wanted to find the chicken on their own"? Reiner asked. Apple Bloom nodded, but then she noticed something. "Hey, where are Twilight and Mr. Hoover". She asked. Reiner suddendly got a cold sweat running down his back. "Reiner? Are you okay"? Apple Bloom asked. "We ran into something, and well it". "Apple Bloom, Reiner"! Before Reiner could finish Fluttershy ran up to them. "Fluttershy, when did you get here"? Asked Reiner. Fluttershy panted and looked up at him. "No time we have to get out of here a cockatrice is on the loose"! Fluttershy exclaimed "A what"? asked Apple Bloom in confusion. "A cockatrice! It's a frightening creature with the head of a chicken and the body of a snake". Fluttershy exclaimed. "Is that what that creature was". Reiner wondered just as Apple Bloom spoke up. "That sounds kinda cool actually, I'd like to see one". She exclaimed. "No you don't, if you look at a cockatrice it will tun you into stone"! Fluttershy yelled. Hearing that made Apple Bloom gasped! "What"?! She yelped in shock. Fluttershy nodded. "I saw that it already did it to Bertholdt, and Twilight". Fluttershy said sadly. She then looked up at Reiner. "But how did you escape Mr. Braun"? she asked. "Well". Reiner began as he remebered back to what happened. Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt were walking through the Everfree Forest Twilight exciitedly telling the other two about the tea Zecora was going to give her. "It's the most amazing tasting tea in all of Equestria, I'm serious you guys have got to try". "I don't know, I'm more of a coffee kind of guy". Reiner stated making Twilight scoff. "All coffee does is make you hyperactive, and it's not good for your heart". Twilight said. "Oh really"! Reiner asked getting in Twilight's face. "Yes really"! Twilight stated doing the same. The two of them glared at each other for a few moments, and started laughing. "Im sorry Reiner I hope I didn't sound too rude". Twilight stated. "No, not at all, and I'm sorry as well". Reiner replied. The three of them then continued on. As they were walking all of a sudden, Bertholdt heard something. "Hey, do you two hear that"? he asked. "Here what Bertholdt"? Twilight asked. "Listen". Bertholdt stated. The three of them listened and heard the sound of russleting in a nearby bush. "It's probably just a squirell or another forest creature. Reiner stated as he continued moving on. However, just as Twilight, and Bertholdt were about to catch up they saw what looked like a chicken peek from the bush. "Hey, what's a chicken doing out here"? Bertholdt asked. "I'm not sure". Twilight replied. She, and Bertholdt both began to walk towards it with Twilight speaking sofly to the chicken. "Hey, it's okay we won't hurt you". Twilight stated reassuringly. She, and Bertholdt both moved closer, but that was when the "Chicken reaveled it's truself. Twilight gasped in horror, reconginzing the creature as a cockatrice. "Bertholdt don't stare at it"! Twilight shouted, but it was too late and the cockatrice turned both her, and Bertholdt into stone, with Reiner witnessing the whole thing. Knowing that he'd most likely suffer the same fate if he tried to confront the thing he quicky ran off in the opposite direction". "And that's what happend". Reiner finshised his story. Fluttershy looked at him in shock, Apple Bloom's eyes were filled with horror. "Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo our out there with that thing on the loose"! Apple Bloom screamed. "Oh my, we have to find them quickly"! Fluttershy exclaimed. "I'll go with you, it will be better if all of us are together". Reiner stated. "Oh, thank you Reiner". Fluttershy said. Then all three of them went off in search of the other two crusaders. Elsewhere Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were both still arguing about arguing being their special talent. "Is not"! Argured Scootaloo. "Is too"! Argued Sweetie Belle. "Is not"! Argured Scootaloo. "Is too"! Argued Sweetie Belle. Finally Sweetie Belle had enough of the arguing and decieded to get a thrid opinion. "What do you think Apple Bloom? Is arguing our special talent"? She asked. However when Sweetie Belle got no response she became confused. "Apple Bloom"? She asked turning around only to see that the little farm filly wasn't behind them. "Hey Scootaloo"? Sweetie Belle asked. "What"?! Scootaloo asked in a rude tone, still a little mad at Sweetie Belle. "Do you know where Apple Bloom is"? Sweetie Belle asked. "What are you talking about she's right, oh". Scootaloo muttered realizing that Apple Bloom was gone. "I guess we were so busy searching for the chicken that we didn't notice that she got separated from us". Scootaloo stated. "Do you think something happened to her"? Asked Sweetie Belle. "God I sure hope not". Scootaloo stated. The two of them wonderd what to do next when they heard Fluttershy call out. "Girls"! she cried rushing over to them along with Reiner, and Apple Bloom. Seeing their fellow crusader the other too sighed in relief. "See I told you she was fine". Scootaloo said to Sweetie Belle. Thank goodness you're okay Fluttershy said as she, Apple Bloom, and Reiner walked up to them. "We have to leave the forest at once"! "But we haven't found the chicken yet"! Exclaimed Sweetie Belle. "There's no time, there's a cockatrice on the loose"! Apple Bloom stated. "A cocka what now"? Asked Scootaloo. "A cockatrice! It's a frightening creature with the head of a chicken and the body of a snake. Now, come on"! Reiner ordered as he Fluttershy, and Apple Bloom all turned to leave. However instead of following them out of the forest Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo just started laughing. "The head of a chicken and the body of a snake? That doesn't sound scary, that sounds silly"! Scootaloo scoffed. "Why, if I ever saw one of them cockathingies face-to-face, I'd laugh at how silly it was." Sweetie Belle replied "No! Never look one in the eye"! Fluttershy yelled, but Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo ignored her, and kept walking further in the forest. "Girls please come back"! Apple Bloom begged her friends. "Don't worry, as soon as we find the chicken we can all go back home". Sweetie Belle said trying to reassure everyone. Just then they all heard movement comming from the bushes. Everyone stared intently waiting for something to come out. After a few seconds the missing chicken came out of the bushes. "Look there's the chicken"! Sweetie Belle exclaimed. Then the head of another chicken peered out from the bush. "Two"? Sweetie Belle asked in confusion. "Let's grab em both". Scootaloo said. They were just about to move towards them when the second chicken fully emerged from the bush reaveling itself not to be a chicken, but some creature with the head of a chicken, and the body of the snake. The creature then stared right at Elizabeak turning the frighted chicken to stone. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo both looked on in horror, Apple Bloom gasped. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo both backed up, and then tripped on something. It was the stone bodies of Twilight Sparkle, and Bertholdt Hoover. Seeing this horrified the two filles. They were just about to scream when Reiner appeared infront of them. "Stay behind me". He order them. The cockatrice began to walk towards the three of them, Reiner, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all had their eyes closed. "If I have to transform into the Armored Titan to protect them, then so be it". Reiner thought to himself. The cockatrice moved in closer, but then it stopped. It turned and spotted Apple Bloom who was standing alone. Seeing the thing heading her way, Appe Bloom fell to the ground, and began to back away fearfully. The cockatrice got closer, and closer preparing the petrfiy the girl, when all of a sudden Fluttershy stepped in between it and Apple Bloom. At first Fluttershy had no idea what to do, all she knew was that she had to protect Apple Bloom somehow. Finally Fluttershy worked up the courage, and yelled at the cockatrice. "You! Just who do you think you are, going around turning others into stone?" She demanded. The cockatrice was shocked, and began to try and turn Fluttershy to stone, but the pegagus kept going. "You should be ashamed of yourself. I have a mind to find your mother and tell her what you've been up to, young man. Now you go over there, and turn Elizabeak and my friends Twilight, and Bertholdt back to normal, and don't ever let me catch you doing this again. Do you understand me"? Fluttershy asked. The cockatrice tried for a few more seconds to petrfie Fluttershy, but ultimantely relented and went off to two what Fluttershy asked of it. "You did it"! Apple Bloom exclaimed. "That was so cool"! Scootaloo followed. "Yeah"! Sweetie Belle agreed. Reiner smiled. "That was pretty impressive Fluttershy". He complented. "Oh thank you Reiner". Fluttershy blushed. "Hooray for Fluttershy! The Stare Master"! The CMCs all cheered. Fluttershy smiled. "Oh girls, I'm just glad you're okay". She said. "Yeah, thanks to you". Sweetie Belle stated. She then looked down. "We're sorry we snuck out of the house and into the forest". she apologized. "Yeah, I feel terrible putting you through that stress". Apple Bloom apologized as well. "From now on we promise to listen to what you say". Scootaloo replied. "Oh, you do, do you? Well, you better, or I'll give you... the Stare!" Fluttershy said jokingly as she, Reiner, and the crusaders all laughed just as Twilight, and Bertholdt who had been unstoned walked over to them "Ugh, what happened"? Asked Twilight. "Yeah, what's going on"? Asked Bertholdt. The next morning Fluttershy finshed telling Twilight, and Bertholdt what happend, Twilight was writing down what Fluttershy was saying planning to send it to Princess Celestia. "And that's when it brought you back from stone". Fluttershy said. "This is gonna make quite a letter to the princess." Twilight replied. Reiner then looked up at Fluttershy. "I was wrong about you. You certainly do know how to handle those girls." He said. Fluttershy smiled. "Oh I wouldn't go that far". She said. "Hmmm? What do you mean?" Asked Bertholdt in confusion. "I assumed that I'd be just as good with kids as I am with animals. Boy, was I wrong. I really learned the hard way not to bite off more than I could chew." Fluttershy stated. Twilight chuckled. "You and Rarity both". She said as Rarity walked over to them". "Good morning Rarity" Twilight greeted. "Did you finish all those capes"? Fluttershy asked. "Just delivered them. I have to admit, if you hadn't come along, I might not have. Thanks again." Rarity replied. "Would you like to stay for some tea"? Asked Fluttershy. "I really must get back to the shop and clean up". Rarity politely declined. She then turned to the crusaders. "Girls! Get your things. Time to go. Girls!" But they ignroed her and kept playing. "Girls! Time to— Girls! Your things! Girls! It's time to— Girls!" Rarity shouted getting increasingly more frustrated. "Allow me". Fluttershy said. She cleared her throat. "Girls". she gentely called. The cmcs all stopped at Fluttershy's voice, and came over to her. "Yes Fluttershy"? Asked Apple Bloom "You called"? Asked Scootaloo. "Go back your things, Rarity is here to take you home". Fluttershy told them "Of course right away". Sweetie Belle said, as she, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo all went inside to pack while Rarity looked on in shock. "Ah, huh, ah, how did you... how did you do that"? She asked. "I guess I'm just as good with kids as I am with animals." Fluttershy replied as the girls came out. "Thank you, Fluttershy! Bye! Thank you, Stare Master!" They all said. Rarity smiled, and then chuckled nervously at Fluttershy. "Ah, uh, speaking of which, I could use your help with Opal". Rarity stated. "Of course how about later today". Fluttershy offered. "How about now"? Rarity asked turning around to show that Opal was now biting her tail. Fluttershy, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt all bursted out laughing. Preview Ponyville Junior High is about to hold it's annaul showcase and the CMCs hope that performing a song in it will help them get their cutie marks, but they might be going about it the wrong way. Next Episode. The Show Stoppers. Author's Note Characters in Order of Apperance Sweetie Belle Rarity Fluttershy Opalescence Scootaloo Apple Bloom Reiner Braun Twilight Sparkle Bertholdt Hoover Diamond Tiara (Flashback) Silverspoon (Flashback) Mrs. Shy (Flashback) Mr. Shy (Flashback) Zephyr Breeze (Flashback) Cozy Glow Episode 25: The Show Stoppers: Gala arc Part 18Applejack was leading the Cutie Mark Crusaders to an unknown locatation. She had a special suprise for them. "Where are you taking us"? Asked Apple Bloom "We're almost there young'uns" Applejack replied chuckuling. Sweetie Belle looked around, amazed by the surronding area. "I've never been here before". She said looking around. Scootaloo too was admiring the area, so she didn't notice that Apple Bloom had stopped, and bumped into her. "Ouch"! Scootaloo yelped in suprise. "Oops, sorry". Apple Bloom apologized. "Are we there yet"? Scootaloo complained. "There? Where? What? I don't even know what we're doing." Sweetie Belle said. Applejack then finally spoke up. "Here we are". She announced. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all looked up to find themselves staring at a rigity old looking treehouse. "Um. What are you looking at"? Asked Apple Bloom. Applejack turned and smiled at the three fillies. "Cutie Mark Crusaders, welcome to your new clubhouse. [silence] Well, don't thank me all at once. This was my clubhouse when I was your age. Sure it hasn't been used in a while, but it's empty and on a secluded, private part of the farm. And it's all yours. It just needs a little, uh... TLC". Applejack explained "TLC as in Tender Loving Care or Totally Lost Cause"? Scootaloo asked in a mocking tone, garnering Apple Bloom to slap her in the back of the head. "Ow"! She yelped, and faced Apple Bloom, but quickly backed off when she saw the glare the little farm filly was giving her. Apple Bloom's amber eyes then softened, and she turned to Applejack. "Um, Applejack"? Apple Bloom began "Yeah"? Applejack asked. "We really do appriecate this and all, but how are we suppose to turn this into our new clubhouse"? Apple Bloom asked. "Well, maybe y'all will get your cutie marks when you discover your talent for... Waaah!" Applejack started to say, but do to the fact that the treehouse was old before she could finish her sentence Applejack fell through the wooden wall. "House Cleaning". Applejack finished in a daze as the CMCs giggled. A couple of days had passed since the CMCs were giving their new Clubhouse. Scootaloo was racing through ponyville on her way to see how the fix up was going. Apple Bloom had said that she would work on it, and make it look brand new. As Scootaloo rode through the village she did several stunts, and tricks on her scooter amazing the ponies she passed by. Finally she arrived at the treehouse, and to her shock and amazment it was already looking better then the last time any of them had seen it. Apple Bloom, who had been working on the Clubhouse like she said she would looked up, and greeted Scootaloo. "Whoa! Hi, Scootaloo! Back already? You're amazin' on that scooter". She complemeted. Scootaloo smiled, and in turn admired the work Apple Bloom had put into fixing the treehouse. "Thanks! Wow, Apple Bloom. You did all of this?" Scootaloo said in amazment. "Yep! I've fixed the broken shutters, sanded off the splinters, rebuilt the roof, painted..." Apple Bloom replied. Just then Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover showed up. "Hey you two". Reiner greeted. "Hi Mr. Braun, and Mr. Hoover". Apple Bloom greeted. "Applejack told us you got a new clubhouse". Bertholdt stated. "Yep, it was all old and falling apart at first, but thanks to Apple Bloom here it's looking all brand new". Scootaloo said, all while making Apple Bloom blush. "How did you get so handy with tools in the first place"? Reiner asked. "Yeah, I would really like to know as well". Scootaloo said in curiosty. "Oh, daddy was always fixing stuff when I was younger, and I would just watch him, sometimes I'd mimick the movements he made, and well eventually he thought me". Apple Bloom explained. "That's so cool". Scootaloo said, but then she noticed something. "Hey, where's Sweetie Belle"? she asked. Sweetie Belle, was over in another area dusting off a piano while singing a little melody. We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders... ...Never stop the journey... Sweetie Belle kept humming until she heard Apple Bloom's voice call out to her. "There you are Belle". Apple Bloom said. She then turned to Scootaloo, Reiner, and Bertholdt. "See I told you if we just followed the singing we'd find her". Apple Bloom stated. "You were right". Scootaloo said. The four ponies then went up to Sweetie Belle. "What are you working on"? Reiner asked. "Oh. I was just working on our new Cutie Mark Crusaders theme song." Sweetie Belle explained. "Cool"! Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo said excitedly. "Teach us"? Asked Scootaloo. "Yeah, please"? Asked Apple Bloom. Sweetie Belle thought for a moment. "Well, I've only come up with one part... but okay!" She agreed. "Yay"! Apple Bloom cheered. She then turned to Bertholdt, and Reiner. "You guys wanna come see the inside of the club house"? She asked. "Sure why not". Reiner replied. Inside the clubhouse Sweeite Belle, was teaching Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo the lyrics to the song, while Reiner and Bertholdt listened. Unaware to any of them Applejack also came by to see what they were doing. Sweetie Belle sang first. They all say that you will get your mark When the time is really right. Her voice was amazing in Reiner, Bertholdt, and Applejack's minds. Then it was Apple Bloom. And you know just what you're supposed to do. Now Apple Bloom never payed any attention to her singing voice, but unknown to her the entire town thought she had the voice of an angel. To Reiner, Apple Bloom's voice is how he believed Christa's voice would sound if she sang. Next was Scootaloo, who basicily just shouted the words instead of singing, making Applejack, Reiner, and Bertholdt cringe. "And your talent comes to light!" "Um, that was something". Bertholdt stated. "Yeah, I'll say". Reiner agreed. Applejack then spoke up. "I'll be, Cutie Mark Crusaders. You've done one fine job with this place. So, what's next?" "Well". Apple Bloom began. "Now that we have our own clubhouse". "And a Map of Ponyville" Scootaloo replied. "...and a Cutie Mark Crusaders theme song..." Finshied Sweetie Belle. "That was your theme song"? Applejack asked, though her question was ignored as the Crusaders all began to talk about their plans. "We're gonna go out in the world and discover our talents." Said Apple Bloom "A new Adventure". Scootaloo replied. "To earn our Cutie Marks"! Stated Sweetie Belle. "We'll leave no stone unturned!" Apple Bloom continued. "No Mountain unclimbed". Scootaloo stated. "No meal Uncooked". Sweetie Belle finished. "Well okay then! Sounds like you have a plan. I gotta, uh... leave no apple unpicked! See y'all later!" Applejack said as she turned to leave. As Applejack left, Scootaloo turned to Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle. "Are we ready to get our cutie marks, ponies?" She asked. "Ready!" Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom cheered. Apple Bloom then turned to Reiner, and Bertholdt. "Come with us"? She asked. Reiner, and Bertholdt thought for a moment before nodding their heads. "Alright". Said Reiner. Soon, The CMCs went off and tried to earn their cutie marks, with Reiner, and Bertholdt supervising them. (The Reluctant Heroes Plays) The CMCs first attempt at getting their cutie marks, was being pig feeders. They started by gathering the food for the animals. Scootaloo poured the food into the trough, Sweetie Belle rang the bell to let the pigs know their lunch was ready, and Apple Bloom opened the pen. Now Apple Bloom, actually having experince with feeding the pigs quickly step to the side, and watched as the pigs ran out. As she watched them go, she heard a small crashing sound. Apple Bloom looked over to see that Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo had been knocked over by the pigs, and were covered in mud. Apple Bloom looked over at them, and giggled, making Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo giggle aswell. They then looked at their flanks. Which were still blank. The second attempt brought the CMCs, along with Reiner, and Bertholdt to sugarcube corner. Gathered around a large mixing bowl that was used for taffy making. They dumped package, after package of baking ingredients into it. However, they didn't remove the packaging paper when the crusaders turned the mixer on. Things seemed to be going well at first, but then Scootaloo got her tail caught on the large beater when it came back around. Fourtently Reiner, and Bertholdt manged to pull her out before she got sucked into the mixer. Once the taffy was done mixing the crusaders checked there flanks. Still Blank. The next thing they tried to do was set up their own beauty parlor in the main area of the Carousel Boutique. Apple Bloom rang a bell to attracth customers along with Reiner and Bertholdt. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were busy helping their first customer relax as they tried to make their own mane dying mixture. After they were down Apple Bloom heard crying. Confused, she Reiner, and Bertholdt looked to see the pony running out of the Boutique with a rainbow afro. Apple Bloom looked on sadly, feeling bad for the pony. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo then came out, but it seemed like all they cared about was their flanks, which were still blank. Seeing this prompted Apple Bloom to grab the clip board, and whack both of them with it. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo looked at her in confusion as Apple Bloom glared at them. She then pointed at the crying pony. Understanding what Apple Bloom was getting at, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo went over with Apple Bloom to the pony, and all three of them apologized. The pony smiled, and assured them that she forgave them. After that fiasco, the filles traveled somewhere outside of town. With help from Bertholdt, and Reiner, they set up a special two sided stand. On one side was a bunch of buttons with shapes on them. Apple Bloom was on the side with the shapes, her goal was to match the shape with whatever card Sweetie Belle had chosen. However she failed each time, and they still didn't have their cutie marks. Next was mountain climbing, but that too failed. Finally, they tried snorkling, but once again they didn't get their cutie marks. The three filles came out of the water feeling depressed. "Hey, don't be so hard on yourselves, just keep on trying, I'm sure you'll get your marks eventually". Reiner said trying to reassure them. "Yeah, just keep on moving forward". Bertholdt replied. Hearing those words made the fillies perk up. "Yeah, you guys are right, all we have to do is keep trying". Apple Bloom said. "No matter how hard it gets". Chimed in Scootaloo. "Until we get our cutie marks". Sweetie Belle declared. "That's the sprit, and since you girls are working so hard we wanted to give you theses". Reiner said as he pulled out three red headbands with stars on them. "What are these"? Apple Bloom asked. "A little something with asked Rarity to make for you when you first came together." Bertholdt replied. "You three are now honorary warriors"! Reiner stated with a smile on his face. The three filles took the headbands, and smiled at the two stalions. "Thanks you guys". Apple Bloom smiled "So, what are you three going to do know"? Asked Bertholdt. "I think were going to head to the golden oak library to see if we can get our cutie marks in being librarians". Scootaloo stated. "Alright, that sounds easy, we're going to head back home alright"? Reiner asked. Apple Bloom nodded. "Yeah, thanks for all your help you two". "No problem". Said Reiner as he and Bertholdt went home. After the two stalions left, the three fillies went off to the golden oak library Currently Publicly Avalablie Information Warrior Cadets. A unit of child soldiers consisting of Eldian "devils." Under command of the Marley army, they undergo harsh training and are selected based on their grades, skills, behavior, personality, and devotion to Marley. As only "devils" can inherit the Nine Titans, the existence of Eldians is crucial for the defense of Marley. As such, Eldians selected to become Warriors are granted "Honorary Marleyan" status along with their immediate family. Later that day, Twilight Sparkle, who had been helping out Samantha Cheerlie with something, arrived back to the library with the teacher. Once they arrived, they saw Spike standing in the middle of the room. As soon as he saw Twilight he quickly spoke up. "I had nothing to do with this"! He exclaimed. "What is going on here"? asked Twilight as the CMCs rose from the pile of books on the floor. "Hmm... well, we sure aren't gettin' our cutie marks for bein' librarians." Apple Bloom stated. "Huh, I should think not". Spike grumbled causing Twilight to glare at him. "What"? He asked. Twilight just sighed, and walked up to the girls. "Girls, I think you're going about this the wrong way. Instead of trying to do things in areas you're not familiar with, why not try doing things in areas that you already like"? She suggested. Cheerlie then walked up. "And I have the perfect place to start." She said handing the CMCs a flyer. Apple Bloom inspected it carefully. "Showcase your talents". she began. "For all to see". Scootaloo continued. "Perform in the Ponyville school talent show!" Sweetie Belle finished. "There'll be all sorts of awards. Best dramatic performance, best comedy act, best magic act... surely you can find your talent." Cheerlie stated. "This is perfect, Oh thank you Miss. Cheerlie". Apple Bloom beamed. "Yeah, we can do so many things, like acting". Scootaloo said. "Acting"? Sweetie Belle question. No way we should do magic tricks. "Why magic tricks"? Asked Scootaloo. "Uh, because why not"? Sweetie Belle replied. "Well why should we do something that none of us are good at"? Scootaloo questioned. "Because". Sweetie Belle began, only for Apple Bloom to intterupt her. "Girls! please no fighting"! She exclaimed. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo both stopped and stared at each other. "Sorry". Scootaloo apologized. "Me too" Sweetie Belle said. Apple Bloom smiled, as she and the girls looked back at Twilight. "My little ponies! You're missing the point. Think about the things you already enjoy doing. Think about what you're already good at." She stated. "Yeah, we can do that". Scootaloo said winking at Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle. Apple Bloom didn't understand why Scootaloo had winked, but Sweetie Belle knew exactly what the pegagus filly meant. "Yeah! Sure we can." Sweetie Belle replied. Apple Bloom didn't know what they meant, but it didn't matter to her. "Well whatever we do, we'll do it together"! She stated. "YAY"! They all cheered, and left the library. Later that day the cutie mark crusaders rode out of the Carousel Boutique in a wagon that was filled with a bunch of stuff. Rarity came out of the store and angrily called out to the girls. "Sweetie Belle! I told you not to touch my things. Come back with my supplies!" "We're just borrowing them for the talent show. Don't worry, sis. I promise we'll bring them back"! Sweetie Belle called back. "You couldn't have just asked her to borrow the supplies"? Apple Bloom asked curiously. "Have you met my sister? You know she would have said no". Sweetie Belle replied. "Oh, right, still I don't feel right about just taking things without permission". Apple Bloom responeded. "Must you be so negetive"? Scootaloo asked. "No, I just". Apple Bloom began". "Look, don't worry we'll ask for permission to borrow the other stuff we need". Scootaloo assured Apple Bloom. The crusaders then went to another store, and borrowed a fan from the owner. It was Sweetie Belle's idea. "Thanks, Mr. Breezy. We'll return the fan to you real soon". Scootaloo said. "Belle, what do we need the fan for"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Trust me on this one". Sweetie Belle replied. Soon the girls had even more stuff, as they stood outside another store. "Okay, so that's six wooden planks, four-by-eight plywood, a box of nails, four cans of paint, and four brushes Scootaloo stated". "Anything else?" She asked. "Yeah. Instructions on how to use six wooden planks, four-by-eight plywood, a box of nails, four cans of paint, and four brushes." Sweetie Belle replied. Apple Bloom just shrugged. The CMCs then went back to the golden oak libary to borrow a book from Twilight. ""Ghosts, Goblins and Ghoulish Figures"? Good heavens, girls. What do you need a book like this for?" Twilight asked "You'll see. Thanks, Twilight. We'll give it back as soon as we're done with it." As she and the other crusaders left. "What do you think they're up to"? Twilight asked Spike. "I have no idea and I don't know if I should be excited or scared to find out". Spike Replied. Back at the clubhouse, the crusaders were setting things up for their performance. "I'm glad we're doin' this as a team." Apple Bloom stated. "Me too". Sweetie Belle exclaimed. "Um... so what are we doing again?" She then asked. "A super awesome dramatic song for the talent show, of course." Scootaloo replied. Sweetie Belle nodded. "Right! With super-cool scenery. And amazing costumes!" She replied. "And mind-blowin' dance moves." Apple Bloom stated as she did a small dance move. "This is gonna be soo amazing!" Scootaloo said. Apple Bloom nodded in agreement, and then turned to Sweetie Belle. "Sweetie Belle, I think you should be a singer." Apple Bloom stated. "What? No way I'm singing in front of a crowd. Twilight said to do something we like to do, and I'd like to be like my big sister, and she's a designer." Sweetie Belle explained. "Fine then. You can do the costumes and the scenery." Scootaloo replied. Apple Bloom then turned to Scootaloo. "Well then Scootaloo, you're great in maneuvers on your scooter. So you should do the choreography. Y'know, all those dance moves". Apple Bloom said. "Nah. I'd rather sing a wicked rock ballad. Why don't you come up with the dance routine, Apple Bloom?" Scootaloo replied. "WHAT"! Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Yeah come on Apple Bloom it will be great, like I said Twilight said to do something we like". Sweetie Belle stated. "I'm pretty sure she meant things were already good at". Apple Bloom stated, but her words fell on deaf ears. "Come on Apple Bloom this will be perfect". Scootaloo insisted. "I don't know girls, I mean Sweetie Belle you have an amazing voice". Apple Bloom pointed out. "So do you". Sweetie Belle muttered under her breath. "What was that"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Oh nothing. Just come on Apple Bloom, let's just do this, and stop worrying". Sweetie Belle insisted. Apple Bloom sighed. "Alright". she muttered. Later, each of the girls were pratcting with what they were going to do for their performance. Apple Bloom was trying to get the hang of dancing, but she was having trouble. "One... two... three... oh! Oh!" She tripped and fell next to Scootaloo. "Um Apple Bloom, what are you doing?" Scootaloo asked. "Oh, I feel like I have four left feet. I can't even spin right." Apple Bloom replied. She then looked at Scootaloo and asked "Are you sure I should be the dancer"? Scootaloo smiled at the earth pony filly. "Don't be silly. You just gotta keep your head forward until the very last minute, like this". Scootaloo then did a very impressive thrill which amazed Apple Bloom. "See? Easy-peasy. You just gotta practice a bunch, that's all". Scootaloo replied. "And that's why you should be the dancer". Apple Bloom said under her breath. "What was that"? Asked Scootaloo. "Oh, nothin! Thanks for giving me some pointers, I'm going to get practicing". Apple Bloom replied as she began to try and dance some more. Only to fall again. " Oh! Ouch! Ow. I'm okay!" "Keep pratcing". Scootaloo told her. "Will do". Apple Bloom sighed. Scootaloo then went back to trying to write the lyrics for the song they we're going to peform at the showcase, however like Apple Bloom with the dancing, Scootaloo was having trouble with writing the lyrics. "We fight the fight, walk the walk. Talk the talk, eat the... uh... food like a celery stalk? Ugh! I'll never come up with anything! Never, never, never!" Scootaloo groaned as she banged her head on the piano in frustration. Just then, a piece of fabric came rolling by, Sweetie Belle was chasing after it. "Come back! Come back! Uh. Dumb fabric." The unicorn filly groaned. She then turned to Scootaloo. "Hey, Scoot! How's the song going"? Sweetie Belle asked. Scootaloo blew a raseberry in response. "Oh my. Sounds serious". Sweetie Belle stated. Scootaloo just sighed in response. "I'm just no good at lyrics. Coming up with words is, like... Really hard". Scootaloo groaned. "Oh they can't be that bad". Sweetie Belle reaasured as she walked up to check what Scootaloo had wrote. But as soon Sweetie Belle started reading, she could defentily see what Scootaloo meant. "Oh, it can't be that bad. "With our cutie marks we'll rock Equestria. We use our stomachs to... digestia"? Sweetie Belle looked at Scootaloo who smiled back sheepishly. "Umm... well... these are... um... good, but... how about after "we fight the fight"... Sweetie Belle then began to sing. There is nothing that we fear We'll have to figure out what we'll do next 'Til our cutie marks are here. "Wow! That's so awesome! Did you just come up with that now?" Scootaloo asked. "Yeah... kind of." Sweetie Belle replied. "That's why you should be the singer Sweetie Belle". Apple Bloom muttered to herself. "Huh, you say something Apple Bloom"? Sweetie Belle asked. "No, nothing". Apple Bloom replied with a smile. "Um, anyways, thanks Belle, I'm defenitly going to use those lyrics". Scootaloo said. Just then, the fabric that Sweetie Belle had been chasing rolled into the pond. "Oh no"! She exclaimed as she rushed to get it out. Later Sweetie Belle hung the fabric up to dry, and started working on one of the coustumes she wanted to make, however like the other two she found what she was doing to be pretty difficult. "One, two, three, four, five"? Sweetie Belle groaned realizing her mistake. Just then, Apple Bloom came by still trying to pratctince dancing, only to fall again. "Ouch"! Apple Bloom grunted. "How's the spin coming along?" Sweetie Belle asked. "I think I gotta just stick to punches and kicks." Apple Bloom stated. She then looked at the costume Sweetie Belle made. "You know, ponies only have four legs." Apple Bloom pointed out. Sweetie Belle sighed. "I'll never be a designer like my sister Rarity." "Hey, it's no big deal. Why don't you use the dress form? It'll help you with your patterns and help you put all the pieces in the right places." Apple Bloom said pointing to the manican that Sweetie Belle had set up. "Oh, that's what's that's for". Sweetie Belle asked. "Uh... maybe you should also clean your paintbrush between each color." Apple Bloom stated looking at some of the carboard drawings Sweetie Belle had drew. "Oh, I was wondering why all the colors looked like mud." "You're not using power tools are you"? Apple Bloom asked. Just then, Applejack walked up to the two of them. She was carrying a basket "Hey girls". She greeted. "Hey Applejack". Apple Bloom greeted back. "What's that"? she asked gesturing to the basked that Applejack was carrying. "Oh, it's actually why I'm here. Listen I know you're practincing for the talent show, but I was suppose to deliever these Apple Fritters to the Mayor's office, and I completly forgot about it, and now I have so much more work to do, Big Mac is also really busy, and Granny Smith, well you know. So I was wondering if". Apple Bloom stopped Applejack before she could finsish. "Of course Oneechan. I can deliver it for you". Apple Bloom replied with a smile. "Oh, thank you so much Apple Bloom". Applejack replied as she handed Apple Bloom the basket. "I'll be right back Sweetie Belle, tell Scootaloo where I went". Apple Bloom told the unicorn filly. "Yes Ma'am!" Sweetie Belle stated. "Thank you"! Apple Bloom replied giving Sweetie Belle a huge smile. "Hnnngh..... So..... Cute". Sweetie Belle strained. Apple Bloom arrived at the Mayor's office 15 minutes later. The whole time, she had been thinking about the talent show. To say she was nervous about their performance would been an understantment, but she tried to not worry about any of that, after all things might not be that bad. When Apple Bloom walked up to the front desk, the mare sitting there greeted her. "Hello, what can I do for you"? The mare asked. "Hello, I'm here to see the Mayor". Apple Bloom replied. "Of course. Mayor Mare you have a visitor". The mare said into a microphone. She then turned to Apple Bloom. "Please have a seat, and the Mayor will be right with you. Apple Bloom smiled. "Thank you". She said as she sat down. As she waited Apple Bloom again began to think of the show, she wondered if She, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo had really chosen the right things to do. She started to sweat thinking about it, her heart began beating incredbley fast, and she started to have trouble breathing. "Apple Bloom"! Apple Bloom was snapped back to reality when she heard the Mayor's voice calling her name. She looked up, and saw Mayor Mare smiling at her. "Oh, good afternoon Ma'am". Apple Bloom greeted polietly. "Hello to you too Apple Bloom, might I ask what brought you here today". Mayor Mare asked. "Oh Applejack has a delievery of Apple Fritters for you, she would have brought them herself, but she had work to do around the farm. Apple Bloom stated. "Why thank you Apple Bloom". Mayor Mare Replied. "No problem". Apple Bloom smiled. She was just about to leave, when Mayor Mare stopped her. "Hey Apple Bloom hold on a second. Apple Bloom turned around in confusion. "Yes"? She asked. "You know, when I came out to see you, I noticed that you looked kind of nervous, and you were sweating. Is anything the matter"? Mayor Mare asked. "Oh, no nothing's wrong, everything's fine". Apple Bloom stated. "Are you sure"? Mayor Mare asked. "Yeah, it's just that sometimes I get kind of stressed, and can't catch my breath, no big deal." Apple Bloom answered. "Apple Bloom, that kind of sounds like, Panic Attack". Mayor Mare replied. "Yeah, that's what Miss Cheerlie, and Nurse Redhart called it". Apple Bloom stated. "And Nurse Redhart works at the hospital, so I assume your seeing a doctor right"? Mayor Mare asked. "I'm not". Apple Bloom replied. "Oh, well can I ask what caused it"? Mayor Mare asked. "Well you see, our school is having it's annual talent show, and Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and I want to peform a song, but I don't think we have the write jobs. Sweetie Belle wants to be the designer, but I think she should be the singer, Scootaloo wants to be the singer, but I think she should be the dancer, and they both want me to be the dancer, but I don't know how to dance". Apple Bloom stated. Mayor Mare nodded her head. "I see, well I think you should just focus on what's important". Mayor Mare stated. "What's that"? Apple Bloom asked. "Just have fun with your friends. Even if your perfomacne isn't all that good, just remeber that you're doing with your friends". Mayor Mare replied. Apple Bloom thought about for a momment, and smiled at the Mayor. "You're right, thank you". Apple Bloom said as she turned to leave, but before she did she turned back to Mayor Mare. "Oh Ms. Mayor could you please not tell my friends or family about my panic attack"? She asked. Mayor Mare nodded, and Apple Bloom smiled and left. Apple Bloom began to walk back to the clubhouse. She was feeling much better as she remebered Mayor Mare's Words. "Just remeber that you're doing with your friends". "That's right, I'm doing it with my friends". she thought to herself. As Apple Bloom was walking, she started to sing. Imagine there's no heaven It's easy if you try No hell below us Above us only sky Imagine all the fillies Living for today... Aha-ah... Imagine there's no countries It isn't hard to do Nothing to kill or die for And no religion, too Imagine all the stalions Living life in peace... You... You may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one I hope someday you'll join us And the world will be as one Imagine no possessions I wonder if you can No need for greed or hunger A brotherhood of man Imagine all the mares Sharing all the world... You... You may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one I hope someday you'll join us And the world will live as one. Woahwoahwoahooohaaaaaaiwooahoo Imagine all the ponies Living for today... Aha-ah... Imagine no possessions I wonder if you can No need for greed or hunger A brotherhood of man Imagine all the people Sharing all the world... You... You may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one I hope someday you'll join us And the world will live as one After she was done singing, she heard cheers behind her. Apple Bloom turned to see she had drawn a crowd. All of them were aplauding her. "Wonderful". said a stalion. "Simply Maginfcent". said another mare. Apple Bloom blushed, and quickly made her way back to the clubhouse where Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were waiting. "Hey Apple Bloom how'd the delivery go"? Asked Scootaloo. "Oh, it went fine." Apple Bloom replied. "Ready to start practicing"? She asked. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo looked at each other before turning to Apple Bloom. "Before we start Apple Bloom, there's something Sweetie Belle, and I have been discussing". Scootaloo stated. "Oh, what about"? Asked a confused Apple Bloom. "Listen Apple Bloom, we never told you this, but in all honesty while you may complement my singing voice very often". Sweetie Belle stated. "It's beautiful". Apple Bloom replied. "But it's nothing compared to your's"! Sweetie Belle exclaimed. That statment confused Apple Bloom greatly. "Huh"? She asked. Sweetie Belle just smiled in response, and put her hoof on Apple Bloom's shoulder. Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and I have both heard you sing multiple times. Behind the school on break, when you're working out here on the farm, and when you got lost in Manehatten. You have the voice of an angel". Sweetie Belle stated. Apple Bloom blushed after hearing Belle say that. "Is that all you wanted to say"? She asked. "Well, we've been thinking actually." Scootaloo stated. "About what"? Apple Bloom asked. "Well, I still want to be the main singer, but how about instead of you dancing, you insted provide background vocals". Scootlaoo suggested. Apple Bloom thought for a moment. "I'm just having fun with my friends". She then looked at Scootaloo, and nodded her head. "Alright". she replied. "YAY"! Both Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo cheered as they hugged Apple Bloom, who smiled warmliy, and returned the hug. "Now let's get practicing". Scootaloo stated. A few days later Applejack was walking up to the clubhouse, she wanted to see how the crusaders we're doing with practicing. "The talent show is just around the corner. I wonder how the fillies are doin'." She wondered to herself. Applejack then looked, and saw Reiner, and Bertholdt nearby. "Howdy Mr. Braun, Mr. Hoover". Applejack greeted the two stalions causing them to turn around. "Morning AJ". Reiner greeted. "Where you headed"? Asked Bertholdt. "Im just headin up to check on the CMCs, I'm sure you two are aware of the talent show, and that the plan on enterin right"? Applejack asked. "We are". Reiner replied. "Well I just wanna see how they're doin. You wanna come with"? Applejack asked. "Sure" Reiner replied as he and Bertholdt followed Applejack to the clubhouse. The three of them walked up to the window of the clubhouse, and saw the girls practicing some dance moves, but they weren't doing very well. "Oh! Sorry, Scootaloo." Apple Bloom apologized as she bumped into Scootaloo. "That's okay". Scootaloo assured, before being bumped into by Sweetie Belle. "Sorry Scoots". Sweetie Belle apologized. "It's fine Belle". "Ouch"! Sweetie Belle yelped when Scootaloo knocked into her. "Sorry Belle"! Scootaloo apologized. Apple Bloom them looked over at the two. Are you sure we really need all these dance moves and stuff, I mean can't we just sing the song"? She asked. "Of course we need them Apple Bloom, it will make are perfomance more awesome, but speaking of the song, why don't we practice the chorus". Scootaloo suggested. Outside Applejack, Reiner, and Bertholdt all had worried glances on their faces after seeing the dance moves. "Well, gosh. Sure wasn't expectin' that." Applejack stated. "I know". Reiner replied, I sure hope they don't get ridculed." "You and me both Reiner, You and me both". Applejack replied just as the fillies came out of the clubhouse. "That actually wasn't that bad". Apple Bloom stated. "Yeah I think we sounded really good. You think we're ready?" Sweetie Belle asked. "Ready as we'll ever be"! Scootaloo replied. Then then noticed Applejack, Reiner, and Bertholdt down bellow. "Hey did you see us practicing"? Scootaloo asked. " Uh... yeah." Reiner replied. "Well? How'd we do? How'd we do?" Apple Bloom asked eagerly. "Uh..." Applejack tried to say something, but she couldn't. But that didn't matter to Scootaloo or Sweetie Belle. "Speechless! See, girls? I told you that's what we're gonna do. We're gonna leave them speechless." Scootaloo said with full confidance. "Yay"! the girls cheered as Applejack turned to Reiner, and Bertholdt. "Speechless is rght". She whispered to them, unaware that Apple Bloom had heard them. The little filly knew that they weren't that good, but Applejack, Reiner, and Bertholdt clearly didn't want to say so. That however didn't matter to Apple Bloom as she remembered Mayor Mare's words to just have fun. Soon, the day of the talent show had arrived, everypony in town had arrived to see the students perform. So far several different performances had already happened, and now they were watching Snips, and Snails perform a magic trick. "And, on the count of three, this rabbit will disappear, and something tasty will reappear in its place." Snips said as he put a hat over the rabbit. "A one, a two, and a three!" He counted, but when he removed the hat the rabbit did in fact disappear, but their were no tasty treats in it's place. "Hey! Where are they? Snails, where are the... " Snips looked over at his friends, only to see him eating the carrots that we're suppose to be under the hat. The crowd all laughed, while Snips angrily chased Snails off the stage. Cheerlie then came out onto the stage to welcome the next act. "Uh, how about a round of applause for the S&S magic act? Now for our next act, we have Sunny Daze and Peachy Pie reciting their favorite poem... on roller skates!" Backstage the CMCs were waiting for their turn, all wearing cloaks over their costumes. They watched as Sunny, and Peachy skated onto the state. "Break a Leg"! Sweetie Belle called out to them shocking Apple Bloom. "Sweetie Belle! What a thing to say!" Apple Bloom scolded. "No, no, no. You see, in the theater it's considered bad luck to say "good luck". So you say "break a leg" instead." Sweetie Belle explained. "Oh". Apple Bloom muttered embarrased. Just then Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt came up to the CMCs. "My little ponies! How are you doing?" Twilight asked. "Nervous..." The crusaders replied. "Don't worry. You're gonna be amazing. Remember, just stick to what you know best. We can't wait to hear you sing, Sweetie Belle." Reiner told them "Why does everypony always think I'm gonna sing?" Sweetie Belle asked. "Actually, you three, I'm the main singer tonight. "Oh"? Reiner asked in confusion. "Yup, though Apple Bloom here is providing background vocals". Scootaloo replied pointing to Apple Bloom who blushed. "Really"? Twilight asked. "And I'm in charge of..." Sweetie Belle began. "Coustumes"? Bertholdt asked intterupting her. "And sets and props. How'd you know?" Sweetie Belle said. "Really, girls? Are you sure...?" Twilight asked. Apple Bloom was about to voice her uncertaintiy to everything when Cheerlie called them out to the stage. "Cutie Mark Crusaders, you're on next. Break a leg." The CMCs ran out onto the stage. "Break a le" Twilight tried to say, but then Apple Bloom tripped. "Uh, good luck". Twilight corrected. Onstage, the lights were out, the entire stage was shroded in darkness as the crowd waited in anticpation for what was about to happen. All of a sudden the audiance was enamored with the sound of a beautiful yet haunting vocalization. It was Apple Bloom Ahhhhh Ah Ahhhhhhh Ahhhhhhh Ahhhhhhhh Ahhhhh Ah Ahhhhhhh Ahhhhhh Ahhhhhh Ahhhhhh Ah Ahhhhhh Ahhhhhhh Ahhhhhh As Apple Bloom kept harmonzing, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle then Appeared, and Scootaloo started to sing the main parts of the song. Look, here, are three little ponies, Ready to sing for this crowd, Listen up, 'cause here's our story I'm gonna sing it Very loud Thanks to Apple Bloom's vocals in the back, it was hard to notice that Scootaloo wasn't singing very good, so she continued. When you're a younger pony And your flank is very bare Feels like the sun will never come When your cutie mark's not there So the three of us will fight the fight There is nothing that we fear We'll have to figure out what we'll do next. Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom then joined in with the main song. Til our cutie marks are here! We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our cutie marks [Scootaloo] They all say that you'll get your mark When the time is really right And you know just what you're supposed to do And your talent comes to light But it's not as easy as it sounds And that waiting's hard to do So we test our talents everywhere [Crusaders] Until our face is blue We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our cutie marks We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our cutie marks! [Apple Bloom with angelic singing voice] We won't stop till our quest is done. Never giving up we will previall I won't let anyone bring me down. With my friends I can succeed. Wah La la la, Ha Ha Ha Ha, Ah Ah Ah Ah, Na Na Na Na. Ist das der Zerstörer oder der Schöpfer? Mit der Glut des Hasses schwenken wir die Schwerter Ist das unser Schicksal oder unser Wille? Wir werden kämpfen, bis dieser heiße Wind unsere Flügel nimmt After the song was over the crowd just stood in place for a while, then they all started to cheer, and stamp their hooves. The Crusaders all smiled, and ran backstage. Later the awards were being given out. "Let's hear it for all our talented fillies and colts." Cheerlie stated. The crowd all cheered for the children. "Our first award goes to... Snips and Snails for best magic act." Cheerlie said as she gave the two colts medles, only for them to start arguing. "Hey! Mine's at least shinier." Snips said. "Well, mine's bigger." Snails replied. "Oh yeah, well... well, mine is, um... heavier?" Snails countered as the two of them ran off the stage. "The next award goes to... Sunny Daze and Peachy Pie for best dramatic performance." Cheerlie announced. The two fillies gasped in delight as they collected their medels. "The next award of the night goes to... the Cutie Mark Crusaders! For best song"! Cheerlie announced. The CMCs all smiled with happiness as Cheerlie gave them their medles "And there's one more award to give out". Cheerlie said while looking at Apple Bloom, who in turn looked back at Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo in confusion, but all they did was smile as Cheerlie continued. And finally, the last award goes to... Apple Bloom!" Cheerlie announced. "What"? Apple Bloom exclaimed as Spike walked up to her, and gave her a bouquet of roses, then Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo ran up to Apple Bloom, and hugged her smiling. Apple Bloom, not knowing how to compraheand this just smiled back. The three of them went backstage very happy "Can you believe it? We won!" Apple Bloom exclaimed. "It was really thanks to you Apple Bloom, your voice is what really helped us out". Scootaloo replied. "You defenilty deserved those flowes Apple Bloom". Sweetie Belle stated making Apple Bloom blush. "I don't know about". Apple Bloom tried to say only for Scootaloo to intterupt her. "Hey don't say you don't desereve this, because you do". Scootaloo said. Apple Bloom jsut smiled at her friends. Sweetie Belle then sighed. "You know what would be the best? If we won and we got our cutie marks." They all groanded as Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt walked up to them. "Hey girls, why the long faces"? Reiner asked. "Yeah, you guys won, that should be something to smile about Twilight replied. "We worked really hard and won a prize, but we still don't have our cutie marks." Scootaloo explained. "And that's what we really wanted". Sweetie Belle replied. "Hey, don't be so hard on yourselves, remember to just keep trying". Bertholdt stated. Apple Bloom looked up at the three of them. "You're right, and we have to do something we enjoy, and I think that's". "Comendy"! Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo both exclaimed as they were now wearing clown hair and noses before running back onto stage to meet with Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. "What"? Apple Bloom exclaimed in confusion, but Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt just smiled at her. "Don't worry, they'll understand someday". Apple Bloom smiled, and went onto the stage. Later that night, Apple Bloom fell asleep with the roses in a vase next to her bed. Preview When Rarity recives a special order, she and Spike go in search for some new gems. However, when a group of creatures called diamond dogs abduct Rarity, Spike and the others must venture into the dogs underground lair in order to rescue her. Next Episode. A Dog and Pony Show Author's Note Characters in order of appearance Applejack Apple Bloom Scootaloo Sweetie Belle Shoeshine Cherry Berry Daisy Twinkleshine Berry Punch Derpy Hooves Minnuette Golden Harvest Granny Smith Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Bright Macintosh (Flashback) Pear Butter (Flashback) Historia Reiss (Vision) Frou Frou Spike Twilight Sparkle Samatha Cheerlie Rarity Mr. Breezy Mayor Mare Snips Snails Lyra Heartstrings Amethyst Star Doctor Hooves Sweetie Drops Sunny Daze Peachy Pie Diamond Tiara Silverspoon Twist Rainbow Dash Episode 26: A Dog and Pony Show: Gala arc Part 19Rarity stood in her work room, finishing up her latest project. "Perfect". she said just as the door to her shop opened. "Coming! Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where every garment is chic, unique, and magnifique." Rarity began to say, only to stop, and gasped at the pony who just walked in. "Sapphire Shores! The pony of pop!" Rarity exclaimed as said famous pony stood in her room. Sapphire Shores smiled at Rarity. "Good afternoon, Miss Rarity!" She greeted. Rarity just stood still in shock, and could only stammer in response. "You yah... y-y-you know my name?" Rarity asked. "Well, of course I do, darling. I make it a point to know all of the up-and-coming designers and Clothes Horse magazine simply raved about you." Sapphire Shores responed. "Oh my stars. If I'm dreaming, do not wake me up." Rarity said to herself, before turning to Sapphire Shores. "How may I help you, Miss Shores?" Rarity asked. "Oh please, call me Sapphire." Sapphire Shores replied. Rarity giggled before responding. "How may I help you, Sapphire?" She asked. "Well, as I'm sure you know, I'll be touring all of Equestria with my latest concert, Sapphire Shores' Ziegfilly Follies, so I need to look seeensational! Ow!" Sapphrie Shores responded. Rarity smiled, and led Sapphire over to the dress she had just finished. "I have just what you need. Sapphire Shores, prepare yourself for the pièce de résistance de la haute couture. I used every last diamond I found on this one garment." Rarity said as she showed the popstar the dress. Sapphire gasped in delight upon seeing it. "And it is spectacular! I'll take it." She exclaimed. Rarity gasped. "Really"? she asked. "Oh yes, and five more, each done up in a different jewel." Sapphrie replied confusing Rarity. "Beg Pardon". Rarity asked. "Costume Changes". Sapphire Shores replied. Hearing that, Rarity realized this wasn't going to be easy, and to make matters worse she was all out of gems. So as of that very moment all Rarity could do was faint. "Yes, I do have that effect on ponies." Sapphire Shores chuckled to herself as she left the store. As soon as she was gone Rarity got up, and looked at her empty jewel box. "Alright don't panic Rarity, all you need to do is get more jewels, you can do this". She said before gulping. "I hope". Rarity, and Spike walked through a patch of land searching for gems for Sapphire Shores dress, the whole time Spike was gushing over the fact that Rarity was making a dress for someone so famous. "Oh my gosh! Sapphire Shores! The pony of pop! She is awesome! I mean, she's gorgeous and talented and". Spike said before stopping, and chuckling to look at his crush. "heh... and not even half the pony you are. I mean, you're ten times more gorgeous and talented and" "Spike A lady is never jealous". Rarity reassured him. "Eh, of course not. But were you totally flipping out or what?!" Spike asked. "Ladies do not "flip out", Spike. However, I was quite in awe." Rarity explained. "However, I was quite in awe". She admitted. Rarity then began to focus on what they needed to do. "Oh, I need to find more jewels than ever before to decorate her costumes". She lit her horn, and was able to find some gems. "Oh, aha"! "Did you find some"? Spike asked. "Yes Spike! Right there"! Rarity replied. Spike went over to where Rarity pointed and dug up several gems. He admired how amazing they looked, and began to think how delicious they would taste. "Ooooo! You look so delicious..." He stated. "Spike! I promised I'd give you gems to snack on, but we need to collect more first or I'll never be able to make these outfits for Sapphire." Rarity reminded him. Spike sighed as he gave the gems to Rarity. "Hm... I will miss you, my sweets." "Come along, Spike. We have many jewels to find." Rarity called. "At your service, milady." And so Spike and Rarity kept searching for more gems. Rarity would use her gem finding spell to locate them, and Spike would dig them up. They did this for about half an hour. Soon Rarity felt she had plentey of gems. She was especailly greatful to Spike for helping her. "You've been very patient today, Spike. And for that you get the finest reward. This is from me to you." She said as she gave a shinny blue gem. Spike took the gem, and admired it for a few minutes. "Is something wrong Spike"? Rarity asked. "No. It's perfect." Spike replied. Rarity smiled, then she felt her horn locate even more gems. "Ooo, bring the cart, Spike. There are more over here." She said. Spike admired his gift. He knew he couldn't eat that gem, no mater how tastey it looked it was a gift from Rarity. "For me. From Rarity." Spike whispered. He then went to catch up with Rarity. However unbeknownst to Spike, he was being watched from the bushes. "Yesss, gemsss. Gemsss!" A voice whispered. "Where"? Asked another voice. "Preciousss gemsss!" The first voice said watching Spike. "He is the gem hunter. With him we can have all those gems... and more! Let's get the dragon". The figure told his allies. But before they could move Rarity's voice called out. "Spike! Where are you"? "Wait who is that"? The first voice asked. "You know, it's terrible to keep a lady waiting." Rarity reminded Spike as he came over to where she was standing. "Coming" Spike said. Again Rarity used her spell to locate some gems. "I think we're really going to strike gold this time. So to speak." So to speak. she chuckled as Spike began to dig up the gems. "Jackpot"! He exclaimed. The figures hiding in the bushes, having seen the whole thing realized that Rarity, using her spell was the one finding the gems, not Spike. "Oh, it's not the dragon we want. It's the pony!" It said. Spike put the gems inside the wagon that he and Rarity had brought with them. Now Rarity was certian she had enough gems to complete Sapphire Shores dress. "Well, Spike, I think that's all we can do for today. And these will certainly get me well on my way with Sapphire's outfits. Why don't we start headi..." Rarity began, when all of a sudden her horn started glowing again. "Oh What's this? Another jewel"? She asked in confusion as her horn led her to a tree. "Oh... oh, strange. It's in the trees?" She pondered. All of a sudden a face of a creature popped out of the leaves startling Rarity. "Oooo— eww!" Rarity exclaimed as the creature jumped out of the bushes reavling itself to be some type of dog like thing. "Uh... uh... good day, gentle... uh, fellow. Uh, I am Rarity and this is my friend Spike." Rarity chuckled nervously. Spike just chuckled nervously. Rarity turned back to the dog lie creature and smiled nervously. "And you are"? She asked. "A Diamond Dog". the thing replied. "Oh really? Oh well, that explains your fine taste in jewelry. I mean I-I-I know that diamonds are a girl's best friend and now I know that they're a dog's best friend too, ha ha ha." Rarity admired as the Diamond Dog crept towards her and Spike. "So, um, you're out hunting for gems as well?" she asked. "Yes, we hunt". The Diamond Dog responed. "We"? Rarity asked in confusion. "We hunt for gems. But you are a better hunter. So now we hunt... for you!" The Diamond Dog said as two other Diamond Dogs jump out of the ground, and tried to grab Rarity who screamed and ducked. Spike jumped on one of the dogs tail, and used his own tail to jab into it repeatdly. The dog yelped in pain as Spike shoved the largest of the three back. He then turned to Rarity. "Run, Rarity!" He told her as the largest dog shoved Spike to the ground. Rarity did as Spike told her, and ran away. The big dog tried to go after her, but Spike grabbed him by the leg causing him to fall on top of the smallest one. Rarity turned back to Spike. "Spike! Come on! Hurry!" She yelled. But then the first Diamond Dog leaped out of the ground in front of Rarity. "Gotcha"! He exclaimed. He grabbed Rarity as she screamed. Spike was still holding on to the big dog. "Got him, Rarity! I got him!" He strained. The big dog however just kicked his legs up, and sent Spike into the tree. "Haha nope". He mocked. "Sorry scaly one". The small one said. "Wait! Rarity?" Spike asked as he fell out of the tree only to see the Diamond Dogs leap down the whole with Rarity as she tried to get out of their grasp. "Unhand me this instant, you ruffians. Stop! Put me down, you thugs! You brutes!" She yelled. "Rarity". Spike gasped. Rarity tried to get out of the whole, calling out for Spike. "Spike! Ah, dirt!" She yelled, but the Diamond Dogs grabbed her face and draged her down. "Aaaaah, Spiiiike!" She screamed as Spike went over to the whole in a panic. "Which, what, where?" He stammered. "Save Me"! He heard Rarity scream. "Nooooooooooo!" Spike yelled. Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Reiner Braun, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Bertholdt Hoover all ran to the area where Rarity was taking. Spike was on Twilight's back breathing into a plastic bag, Twilight looked up to him in concern. "Spike, can you breathe now?" She asked. Spike panted. "Yes.... I think so". He replied. "Good. Now tell us what you know." Reiner told him. "Yeah. 'Cause all you said earlier was..." Rainbow Dash stated as a flashback showed Spike coming up to all of them in a panic. "Aaaah! Rarity... woods... jewels... dogs... hole... taken... Save her!" "Not a whole lot to go on there, sport." Applejack stated. "Sorry. Rarity and I were in the woods looking for jewels when these creepy guys showed up." Spike explained. "Creepy guys"? Asked Bertholdt in confusion. "They called themselves the Diamond Dogs. They grabbed Rarity and disappeared down a hole in the ground." Spike said. Applejack's face became full of determination after hearing that. "Well, this sounds mighty easy. Just take us to that there hole and we'll save Rarity." She told Spike. However when they arrived they saw that their were now a bunch of holes as oppose to one. "Holy moly, that's a lotta holeys." Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Clearly they knew we were coming". Reiner stated. "Well what do we do"? Asked Fluttershy. "The only thing we can do, go through ever single one of these holes until we find the right one". Reiner replied. "Reiner's right everypony! Let's get started." Twilight stated as she walked up to one of the holes. "Hello"? She called down. All of a sudden a pair of eyes looked up at Twilight startling her. She gasped in shock as a bunch of dirt was thrown into her face. Then some more dirt hit Reiner, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Bertholdt, Fluttershy, and Spike. Twilight realized that the Diamond Dogs were covering up all the holes so that the Mane 8 wouldn't be able to chase after them. "Quick! We gotta get down one before they're all filled up!" Twilight exclaimed as they all tried to get into a hole. "Oh! Oh my. Oh, oh!" Fluttershy stammered. Pinkie Pie tried jumping down one, but was stopped by the piles of dirt. Applejack tried to force her way through, but the eruptions of dirt coming from the ground was two strong. "We can't muscle through it!" She exclaimed. Rainbow Dash however wasn't going down so eaisly. "We'll see about that". she stated as she flew towards one of the holes as Reiner attempted to stop her. "Rainbow don't"! He yelled, but it was too late. Rainbow Dash flew down towards the hole, but that one too was covered up by dirt, forcing her to stop. "Whew. Heavens to Betsy. Now I'm used to pickin' myself up and dustin' myself off, but Rarity won't even touch mud 'less it's imported." Applejack stated. "Oh, Rarity". Twilight sighed as she and the others imagned Rarity in a cage. "Oh, woe is me! Whatever shall I do? Ah! Dirt, dirt! Get away, dirt! Oh! Make it stop, make it stop! Ah! Filthy, disgusting dirt. It stings, it burns. Help! Oh, somepony save me, save me!" They all imagned Rarity saying. "We can't just stand around and do nothing, Rarity needs us". Reiner stated. "That's right, we gotta save her". Applejack agreed. "But how, they blocked up all the holes". Fluttershy pointed out. "Don't mean we can't dig em out". Applejack replied as she, Pinkie, Reiner, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt all started to dig. However one of the Diamond Dogs came up behind Pinkie, and pulled her tail hard. "Ow"! She yelped in pain. Another one then came up picked up Fluttershy, and threw her onto the ground. "Oh"! She cried. Both of them then threw dirt into Bertholdt, and Reiner's faces "Ugh"! Groaned Reiner. "Blech"! Cried Bertholdt. Spike tried to run through the mounds in an attempt to find any openings, but he was tripped by one of the dogs. Meanwhile Twilight, and Rainbow Dash were both trying to dig through more mounds when two of the Diamond Dogs popped up from the mound that was in the middle. "Get em"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she and Twilight charged towards them, but they ducked back into the hole causing Twilight, and Dash to crash into eachother. The Diamond dogs kept messing with the ponies, and Spike until they were all too exhausted to even move, and were soon all panting on the ground. "All those scary monsters popping up everywhere. Oh, poor Rarity must be terrified." Fluttershy said as they once again imagined what Rarity was going through. In their imagantion Rarity was in a dark room and the Diamond Dogs were poping out around her. "Give me the baubles"! The smallest one exclaimed. "Ah!" Rarity yelped "Give me the beads"! The largest one jumped. "Aah"! Rarity yelped. "Where are the trinkets"?! The leader demanded. "Aaaah"! Rarity screamed "Where is the treasure"! All of them jumped infront of Rarity causing her to faint. "Oh poor Rarity what are we going to do"? Twilight asked. It was then Spike noticed something. It was another hole that wasn't filled up yet. However he new that if he just tried to jump into the hole they would just close it up, so he came up with a plan. "I got it! I'll save you, my sweet." Spike said as he pulled the gem that Rarity had given him out of his pocket. He then grabbed a fishing line, attachted the gem to it, and threw it down the hole. "Spike, what are doing"? Reiner asked. "These guys love gems, and if we just tried to jump down that hole, then they would just seal it up, but if they see a jewel come down, then I'm sure they'll take the bait". Spike explained. "Ah, I see". Reiner replied. "Spike, it's very noble". Twilight began, but Spike shushed her. So she began to speak more quietly. "To sacrifice the gem Rarity gave you". She told him. "Ah Rarity. My damsel in distress". He sighed as he imagined himself as a strong knight in shining armor coming to save a fair princess. I shall save you. Show yourselves, you dogs! You curs! he called out to them before seeing them. Ah. There you are, you mangy mutts." "Who are you calling mutts?! Unleash the hounds"! The leader ordered as he blew a dog whislte. A bunch of guard dogs came charging from all directions, but Spike used his spear, and tail to whack them all away. He then turned to the three main dogs. "Now where is lady Rarity"! He demanded. The dogs, cowering in fear pointed to a cage. Spike charged towards it, and broke through with his spear. There inside was Rarity in a princess gown. She was delighted to see him. "Spike! I knew you would save me!" She said. "Nothing could stop me, milady." Spike reminded her. "Ohohohoh, Spike. You are my... hero." Rarity said. They then both moved in for a kiss. Then Spike was taken out of his fanasty by Applejack. "Hoho there, lover boy." She chuckled. Spike blushed, and smiled. All of a sudden, something strong pulled on the fishing line. "Whoa! Whoa whoa whoawhoawhoa... I got a bite! I got a bite!" He exclaimed as he was pulled towards the hole. Applejack went to help Spike, and grabbed him by the tail. "Hold on there, little fella." But she too was starting to be pulled into the hole causing Twilight to come after them "Applejack"! she cried as she was draged into the hole. "Twilight"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed. "Come on Bertholdt"! Reiner told his friend as he followed after the others. "Right"! Bertholdt replied and went with Reiner both of them diving into the hole, and leaving Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy who then also went after them. "Oh my goodness, oh my goodness..." Fluttershy stammered as she jumped in. "Wait for me"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Soon all of them were sliding down the hole, all of them screaming in fear. Well except for Pinkie Pie, who of course was having fun. Eventually they made it down, and were in the Diamond Dogs hide out. "Ha ha, it worked! We're in! Now we can finally save Rarity!" Spike exclaimed excitedly. However there was one problem. There were mutliple tunnels, and no one knew which one led to Rarity. "Um... which way do we go?" Bertholdt asked. Realizing the situation Spike once again through his arms into the air, and screamed. "Nooooooooooo!" Currently Publicly Avalible Information Dimaond Dogs. Canine like creatures, as their name suggest they love gems, and jewels of any kind, and they have a knack for finding them. However they prefer someone else look for the gems for them. "Damnit what are we going to do"? Reiner asked. "I don't know". Twilight replied as she looked at all the different holes. "All these tunnels... how are we ever gonna find Rarity?" She asked. "Guess we're just gonna have to start going down them one by one." Applejack suggested. "That could take forever! There's gotta be way to narrow it down." Rainbow Dash pointed out. "But how are we going to do that"? Fluttershy asked. "Yeah, those things could have taken Rarity down any one of these tunnels". Bertholdt replied. That was when Spike got an idea. "I know! I bet they've taken Rarity down the tunnel with the most gems." He stated. "But Spike, Rarity is the only one who knows how to find gems." Twilight told him, only for Spike to turn, and smile at her. "No, Twilight. You, and Mr. Braun can! You two can copy Rarity's gem-finding spell." He told her. Twilight gasped in realization after hearing Spike say that. "Oh my gosh! You're right! Rarity showed Reiner". Twilight remembered. "That's right, back when were exploring in that cave". Reiner replied. Soon he and Twilight lit up their horns, and soon enough were abel to find the tunnel that had the most gems, and was most likely the one Rarity was down. "That's it. You two did it, Twilight come on"! Spike said as he jumped on to Twilight's back. Soon all of them ran down the tunnel to find Rarity. "We're coming, Rarity. We'll save you. Just hold on". Spike thought to himself. Rarity meanwhile was at the end of the tunnel, cornered by the Diamond Dogs. "Oh please, Diamond Dogs. Please let me go." She begged. "No"! The Smallest one replied. "You're our precious little pony." The Biggest one informed her. "Forever! Muhahahaha!" The Leader laughed. "But whatever do you want from me?" Rarity asked. "Gemsss!" The leader answered. "Yes! The gems. The jewels." The Smallest one replied. "Find them! All of them"! The biggest one demaneded. Realizeing that was all they wanted, Rarity felt a little more at ease, thinking that maybe if she found what they wanted then they would let her leave. "Oh? Is that all"? she asked. The leader nodded his head, he was quickly getting annoyed though. Rarity then used her gem finding spell, and found a small pile of jewels a few meters away. "There. A lovely pocket of jewels are right there. Now, if you'd be so kind as to show me the exit?" She asked. However the leader just laughed at her. "Good! Now, dig them up, pony!" He ordered. "What? But you said you wanted me to find the gems." Rarity said. "Yes. Find, and Dig!" The smallest one replied. "Dig"? Rarity asked. "Yes. Dig." The largest Diamond Dog told her. Rarity however did not want to did, but she didn't know what the Diamond Dogs would do to her if she refused. Then she came up with something. Rarity went over to where the gems were, and began to dig, horrbily, and very slowly as the Diamond Dogs waited. Eventually though they began to get impatient. "What are you doing? We said dig!" The largest one stated. "Forgive me, but prior to you so rudely dragging me into your dirt pit, I had a pony-pedi and I am not about to chip a hoof because you dislike my style of digging." Rarity informed them, and continued to slowly dig. The leader of the Diamond Dogs was growing more and more frustrated with Rarity's poor digging skills. Finally he had enough. "Oh, for goodness— Fine! Just stop. Stop"! He exclaimed before turning to the guard dogs. "Dig, dogs! Dig! And fast." He ordered. The dogs did as they were told, and dug up the gems. Rarity smirked thinking she had just gotten out of doing any hard work, however the Diamond Dogs had other plans for her as the largest one grabbed a chain, and began to walk over to Rarity. "She won't dig, she pulls." He said as he put the chain on her back confusing Rarity greatly. "I beg your pardon, but what, pray tell, are you doing?" Rarity asked. "Others will dig. You will haul the wagon." He told her. "Prrrecious pony-pedi will be preserved." The smallest dog replied as he and the largest one began to adjust the chain on Rarity's back. "Well, somebody certainly needs proper nail care. When was the last time you two had a manicure? You're scratching up my coat with those jagged things!" She complained as the two dogs were digiging into her fur. It got so bad that the leader was getting very frustrated. "Please be quiet!" He practicly begged her, only for Rarity to gag in disgust. "Good heavens, what is that smell?" She asked, annoying the leader even more. "Smeeeeeell?" he asked, leaning closer to Rarity, his paticene getting very thin. Rarity just smirked in response. "Ah, mystery solved. It's your breath." She mocked him. Rarity was now getting on the leader's last nerves, he thought this would be easy, but it wasn't. "Enough! Search, pony!" He ordered. Rarity sighed as she began hauling the cart, and using her magic to find where the gems were. However, she made sure to complain about every single detail of the tunnels, and situation she was in, much to the Diamond Dogs annyonace. "Well, since you insist... but I must say the working conditions in here are simply dreadful. Musty and damp, it's going to wreak havoc on my mane. And this air is stifling, suffocating. And when I try to take a deep breath, the stench of all you dogs makes me nauseated. You look and smell like you haven't bathed in weeks. Have you never heard of soap? You could all do with a good round of soap and water." Rarity told them as she stopped. "Oh water, oh water, I'm terribly thirsty. Could I please have some water?" She asked just as the smallest of the diamond dogs finally lost his patiecnes and held his ears. "Good gracious, I can't take this anymore. Be quiet, pony!" He demanded causing Rarity to become more annoyed as well. "And that's another thing. I would appreciate if you stopped calling me "pony". I am a lady and I wish to be addressed as such. So you may call me "Miss" or "Rarity" or "Miss Rarity". She told them. Just as the leader got more aggitated. "Enough! Your whining! It-it-it hurts!" He complained. Rarity just looked at him confused. "Whining? I am not whining. I am complaining." She told them. "Do you want to hear whining"? She asked as she began doing just that. "Thiiis iiis whiiining! Oooh, this harness is too tiiight! It's going to chafe. Can't you loosen it? Oooh, it hurts and it's sooo ruuusty! Why didn't you clean it first? It's gonna leave a staaain! And the wagon's getting heeeavy, why do I have to pull it? She whinned as the Diamond Dogs all held their ears in annyonce. "Aaah! Make it stop!" The smallest one begged. "Stop whinning"! The leader demanded. "But I thought you wanted whiiining!" Rarity stated still in that whinny voice. The leader, finally having enought fell to his knees in defeat. "Geh! We'll do anything, pony!" He said, but quickly corrected himself when he saw the glare Rarity was giving him. "Oh, uh, uh, we'll do anything, "Miss Rarity". He chuckled nervously. "Anything"? Rarity asked. Soon Rarity found herself being pampared while the Diamond Dogs did all the work for her. Sure she still used her magic to find the Gems, but now she was being treated with the respect a lady should be treated with. She smiled as she was given some water. She looked at it and sighed. "This water is hardly sparkling. But I suppose it will have to do." She stated. Meanwhile the three main Diamond Dogs were now pulling the wagons with the gems inside of them, panting, and sweating do to how heavey they were, then the leader stopped all of a sudden. "Wait! Why are we doing this"?! He asked "To stop the awful noises from the pony's mouth, remember"? The smallest one reminded him. This made the leader grimice. "That Bitch! Thinking she can order us around, and take over our tunnles". he murrmered to himself before turning to the other two. "This is ridiculous! Letting a pony order us around. What are we? Mice or dogs?" He asked. The other two heasaitated before answering "Dogs". They muttered. The leader smiled, please with their response. "Dogs do not pull. Ponies pull. Let her make the awful noises." He stated as he went over to Rarity. Rarity was standing off in the corner enjoying her drink, and watching as the dogs did the work they had tried to foce her to do, but she was completely shocked when she felt the leader of the Diamond Dogs put the chain back onto her. "What the hell do you think you are doing"?! She demanded to know before noticing that her water had been spilled. " Hey, you spilled my drink." She informed him, but then she remembered how she got them to do what she wanted, and immediately started whinning again. "Not sooo tiiight!" However the leader no longer cared about Rarity's whinning, he was done being pushed around by a pony so he just smirked at Rarity. "Ha! Make the noises all you want. But move while you make them. Hyah, mule!" He ordered slapping Rarity in the process. Upon hearing herself being called a mule Rarity turned to the leader. "Did you just call me a... mule? She asked lips quivering and eyes filling with tears. The leader just looked at her in confusion. "Ehhh"? He pondered. "Mules are ugly. Are you saying that I too am ugly?" Rarity asked before bursting into tears as the leader just stood there in shock not knowing what to do just as the other two Diamond Dogs came over. "What are these noises"? The smallest one asked. "He called me ugly!" Rarity wailled. "No! Mule! I said mule!" The leader said trying to defend himself. "An old ugly mule! And it's true! Just look at me. I used to be beautiful, but, but nooow..." Rarity stated as she continued sobbing. "No, no! You're still beautiful, po... uh, Miss Rarity." The biggest one said trying to reassure Rarity, but she didn't belive him. "You're just saying that!" Rarity cried. "No, you're still pretty and... and..." The smallest began to say before nudging the leader who quickly tried to say something encouging as well. "Oh, uh, uh, nice. Yeah." He said. "I don't believe you! You never liked me". Rarity wailled as the leader just sighed in defeat. "Oh, I've had just about enough of this!" He groaned. Meanwhile the others were kept following the tunnel as Twilight, and Reiner kept using the gem finding spell. "We're getting close. I can feel it." Reiner stated as they kept running. As they got closer they could hear Rarity's cries of despair. "It's coming from down here. Come on!" Spike exclaimed. The group kept on running until they came to a caged door, behind it they could hear Rarity. "She must be in there. Let's go!" Rainbow Dash stated, but before they could make their move the guard dogs jumped on all of their backs. "More work horses"! One of them grinned evily as they tried to put ropes on the Mane Eight's mouths. Applejack however wasn't planning on going down without a fight. "Hoh, doggies. If you can take this bull by the horns, you better be ready for a ride." She stated before she started jumping and around wildly in an attempt to buck the dog off of her. She then turned and urged the others to do the same. "Come on, ponies! Kick 'em up, kick 'em out. Buck 'em up, buck 'em down." Applejack ordered. The others quickly followed Applejack's lead and soon they manged to buck the guard dogs off of them, and they ran off. "Yeehaw! Get along, little doggies!" Applejack cheered. After that was done Spike jumped back onto Twilight's back, and grabbed a spear like object. "I'm coming for you, milady. Hi-ho, Twilight! Away!" He exclaimed causing Twilight to angrily look at him. "And just what do you think you're doing"?! She asked. "Please, Twilight. Just give me this." Spike begged. Twilight just sighed. "Eh... fine." The group then ran towards the doors, crashing through them. " Lady Rarity, I'm here to save you!" Spike exclaimed. However he and the others were complelty shocked to see the Diamond Dogs running towards them. "Save us! Please, save us! Make it stop! Please!" They all cried out confusing the group. "Excuse me"? Reiner asked in confusion. "So picky". The smallest one said. "And critical." The biggest one said. "She won't stop talking". The smallest one continued. "And Crying". The biggest one replied. "We , uh, give her back. Yes." The leader stated as Rarity walked over carrying a cart of gems behind her. Spike was over the moon to see that Rarity was alright. "Rarity! You're safe!" He exclaimed. Rarity smiled at him. "Why yes". She said before looking at the others". Hello everypony, you're just in time to help me". Rarity stated. "Help you with what"? Asked Applejack. "These"! Rarity answered turning to a bunch of carts filled with jewels. Spike looked at all of them in amazment. He then turned to the Diamond Dogs. "You're letting her leave with all these... jewels?" He asked. "Yes take them, her, and get out"! The leader exclaimed. "Please"! The smallest one begged. Soon the group was out of the tunnel making their way back to ponyville. "I can't believe you found all these gems!" Pinkie Pie stated. "Heh. I can't believe you tricked all those dogs." Rainbow Dash replied. "Reminds Bertholdt and I of a couple of girls we know". Reiner said. Rarity just smiled at her friends. "Just because I'm a lady doesn't mean I cannot handle myself in a sticky situation. I had them wrapped around my hoof the entire time." Rarity stated. "I can't wait to write to Princess Celestia to tell her what you taught me today." Twilight told Rarity who looked at Twilight in confusion. "Me? What did I teach you?" She asked. "Just because somepony is ladylike doesn't make her weak. In fact, by using her wits, a seemingly defenseless pony can be the one who outsmarts and outshines them all." Twilight replied. " Hm... "outshines" is right. Now you have enough gems to cover Sapphire Shores' costumes." Spike said as he ate one of the gems. "Not if you eat them all, Spike." Rarity replied causing the others to laugh. Preview Fashion photgrapher Photo Finish wants to make Fluttershy a model causing Rarity to become Jealous. Meanwhile Fluttershy doesn't like the attention she is getting, however both are unable to say anything out of fear of hurting the other's feelings, Next Episode. Green isn't Your Color Author's Note Characters in order of appearance Rarity Sapphire Shores Spike Rover Fido Spot Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Applejack Rainbow Dash Fluttershy Pinkie Pie Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Episode 27: Green isn't Your Color: Gala arc Part 20Fluttershy sat in the waiting room of the ponyville spa house. She was waiting for Rarity to arrive so the two of them could hang out for their weekly get together. After a few more miniutes of waiting Rarity came rushing into the spa house. "So sorry, Fluttershy. I hate being late for our weekly get-together." She apologized before turning to Lotus Blossom. "The usual please". Rarity told her. Rarity and Fluttershy started their day getting a bath, during which Rarity explained to Fluttershy why she was late. "But you will not believe what happened to me." Rarity stated casuing Fluttershy to get a little worried. "Is everything alright"? she asked. Rarity smiled and nodded in reassuarance. "Oh, it's much more than all right. I was on my way here, wearing my latest hat creation, when who should stop me on the street but Photo Finish!?" Rarity replied exictedtly. "Photo Finish"? Fluttershy asked in confusion, not knowing what Rarity was talking about. The two of them stood up and left the steam bath. Aloe, and Louts Blossom then put a mud mask on Rarity's face, while Fluttershy only had a couple of drops put on her, as she didn't really like her face being covered. While that was going on Rarity was explaing to Fluttershy who Photo Finish was. "She is the most famous fashion photographer in all of Equestria. Anywho, she saw my hat and said it was absolutely marvelous!" "What a lovely compliment." Fluttershy replied. "She was so impressed that she wants to take some pictures of my shop featuring some of my clothes!" Rarity continued as she and Fluttershy began getting massages. "That's wonderful". Fluttershy stated. "Do you know what this could mean for my fashion career?" Rarity asked. Fluttershy nodded. "Oh, Rarity, I'm so happy for you." She said as she, and Rarity went over to the mud baths. "But I'm going to need somepony fabulous to model for me. Somepony with beauty. Somepony with grace. Somepony... like you?" Rarity asked. Fluttershy was shocked, and began to stutter. "Oh, goodness. I don't know." Fluttershy admitted. Hearing her friends doubts Rarity tried to reassure Fluttershy as to why she was to best option. "Oh, this is such a huge opportunity. And it would mean so much to me." Rarity stated. "I'm flattered, really." Fluttershy replied as Rarity continued. "Nopony is going to have your elegance and poise." Rarity said. "But..." Fluttershy began only for Rarity to intterupt her. "Nopony"! Fluttershy stilled tried to convice Rarity to ask someone else. "Somepony more comfortable in the spotlight." However Rarity continued to beg. "Please, please, pleeease!" She pleaded. Finally realizing she had no other choice Fluttershy sighed. "Oh, if it's that important to you, of course I'll do it". Hearing Fluttershy say that put a huge smile on Rarity's face as she rushed over to hug the pegaus. "Oh, thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou! You are the best friend a pony could ever have!" She squeled in delight. Rarity, and Fluttershy soon left the spa, Fluttershy being very satisfied with their treatmeant. "What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon." She smiled. Rarity nodded in agreement as she walked behind Fluttershy. "Isn't it? Though I was so afraid you wouldn't agree to model for me that I felt completely frazzled". Rarity admited before feeling her face. "Oh, I think I feel a pimple coming on. Only one thing to do Rarity said. Fluttershy just smiled as she watched Rarity go back into the spa house. "The usual". Rarity stated. At the carousel boutquie Fluttershy stood on the dressing stage watching while Rarity fitted her in one of the outfitts she made. With them were Reiner Braun, Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Bertholdt Hoover, and Spike. Rarity looked intently at Fluttershy, she wanted to make sure the pegagus knew how to present herself when Photo Finish arrived. "Hm... She's going to want to see attitude and pizzazz." Rarity informed Fluttershy. "A-a-attitude and, um... pizzazz." Fluttershy stammered as she attempted to present herself in that matter. Rarity came over to check out how Fluttershy looked. She then looked over to Twilight and Reiner. "More Light". Rarity demanded. Twilight, and Reiner lit up their horns as Rarity study Fluttershy's dress carefully. "It has to catch the sequins just so or the whole outfit is just a disaster. Oh, and the headdress needs more feathers." She stated. She then called out to Pinkie Pie. "Pinkie Pie! More feathers!" The pink earth pony hapily skipped over with a basket of feathers, and gave them to Rarity who added them to the head peace of Fluttershy's dress. After she did that Rarity realiezed the dress also needed more sequins as well. "And sequins! More sequins!" "Spike came over with said sequince, having a dreamy look on his face do to his crush on Rarity. Once he gave Rarity the sequins the unicorn blew them into Fluttershy's face making her wince. "And more ribbion." Rarity said. Spike put another ribbion into Fluttershy's hair, however Rarity then decieded she didn't like it. "Oh no! Less ribbon." She said. So Spike took it out, but Rarity then wanted it back in. "No more ribbion". So Spike put it back in all the while Fluttershy was getting increasingly more frustrated, but tried not to show it. "Hey Rarity are you sure about this". Bertholdt asked clearly seeing Fluttershy was pretty uncomfortable. "Yes Mr. Hoover I'm sure about this". Rarity replied as she then looked at the hem of Fluttershy's dress. " Oh, this hem is completely off. Pincushion"! She ordered. Spike once again went to get what Rarity asked for by putting the pins into his back. Rarity then plucked out the ones she wanted while leaving a few in Spike, who simply went back to the others. "Thank you all for helping me. I'm sorry to be so short with you, but I'm... I'm just so nervous." Rarity told her friends. Meanwhile Spike made his way back to the others as Twilight looked at his back in concern. "Oh, doesn't that hurt?" She asked in concern. "Thick scales. Can't feel a thing." Spike reassured her. "And even if I could, there is no pain that would keep me from assisting the most beautiful creature in the world." Spike admited as Twilight groaned. Spike then turned to the four ponies behind him. "Im going to tell you guys a secret, but you can't tell anyone, promise"? He asked. "I promise". Twilight stated. "Sure thing little buddy". Reiner repiled. "Of course". Said Bertholdt. "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Pinkie Pie answered. Satsified Spike gestured for them to come closer. "I have a crush on Rarity!" Spike said. Pinkie Pie gasped in shock, but Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt just rolled their eyes. "We won't say a word!" Pinkie Pie promised. Twilight just rolled her eyes again. "Give me a break. Everypony already knows how you-" However before she could finsh Pinkie Pie intterupted her. "Twilight! You promised Spike you wouldn't say anything. He trusts you. And losing a friend's trust is the fastest way to lose a friend forever!" "But"! Twilight tried to say only to be intterupted again. "Forever"! Pinkie exclaimed. Reiner just siged in respone. "Our lips our sealed". He said before looking down at Spike. "Though I'm pretty sure Rarity is gonna pick up on your feelings." He told the baby dragon. Bertholdt then looked back over at Rarity. "Rarity, are you absoultey sure Fluttershy was the only one who could do this". He asked. Rarity looked back over at Berthodlt. "Of course! She's absoultely perfect". Rarity replied as she looked around the room. "I can't thank you all for helping me, especially you Spike." Rarity stated. Spike just blushed and giggled. "Aw it's nothing". He replied. Rarity smiled. "Well since Apple Bloom was unable to help out like I wanted her too you were my next option". "Wait Apple Bloom's suppose to be here"? Asked Reiner Rarity nodded. Yes, but when I went to Sweet Apple Acres she, uh. Wasn't in the best of moods so I knew it was best not to bother her". "What do you mean"? Spike asked. "Just like with my Pinkie Sense those who live in Ponyvile long enough know that you shouldn't make Apple Bloom angry". Pinkie Pie replied. Fluttershy nooded in agreement. "That's right, Apple Bloom is very kind and caring towards other ponies, and creatures, but that filly can rip you in half if she wanted to". All of sudden the doors of Carousel Boutique flew open, and in walked a very fashinable looking earth pony stepped in. "I, Photo Finish... have arrived." She announed. With a smile on her face Rarity went up to Photo Finish in order to welcome the fashion photographer to her boutique. "Let me just say, what an honor!" However Photo Finish just ignored Rarity, and walked right by her. "That seemed kind of rude". Reiner muttered. "I'll say". Twilight nodded in agreement. Photo sat down infront of the stage which Fluttershy was standing on. She clapped her hooves, and one of her assiatants came over and set up her camera. "We begin... now!" She exclaimed. Rarity went up to Fluttershy. "Attitude and pizzazz!" Rarity said. "Yes! Show Photo Finish something." The fashion photograher demanded. Fluttershy started to go into one of the poses Rarity had told her to do, however Photo Finish didn't seem to like how Fluttershy was standing. "No"! she shouted causing Fluttershy to flinch. That pose however Photo Finish did like. "Yeees." She said in awe. Fluttershy then went for another pose only for Photo Finish to exclaim. "No"! Again causing Fluttershy to flinch. But Photo seemed to like that. "Yeees". She admired. Finally Fluttershy tried for a third pose, but Photo Finish once again said. "No"! And once again Fluttershy flinched. "Yeees". Photo Finish said. She took a few more pictures before finally stopping. "Enough"! she exclaimed before backing her things and leaving. "She hardly took any pictures". Twilight acknoledged". "Yeah, did she not like what she was shown"? Bertholdt asked in confusion. Fluttershy got of the stage, and looked sadly at Rarity. "I'm so sorry. I tried my best." Fluttershy apologized. Rarity sighed and helped Fluttershy get out of the dress. "Well, the headdress is too big for you and cape had too much sparkle. I can't believe I ever thought I could impress her." She lamented. However just then Photo Finish came back over to the stage. " It seems that I, Photo Finish, have found the next fashion star here in Ponyville." She stated shocking everyone in the room accept her assiantants. "Really"? Asked Rarity. Photo Finish nodded her head. "Yes. Really. And I, Photo Finish, am going to help her to shine all over Eqvestria. Tomorrow, a photo shoot in ze park. I go"! She informed before she and her assiantants dashed out of Caroseul Botique. As soon as they left Rarity turned to her friends and squeled with excitment. "Did you hear that? I am going to "shine all over Equestria". She exclaimed. "That's wonderful Rarity". Twilight stated. "It is indeed, I was so worried I had ruined everything". Fluttershy replied. "Oh, never. I knew you'd be perfect." Rarity told her as she giggled exictedly. The next day Rarity, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt were getting ready in the park, waiting for Photo Finish to arrive. As Rarity was looking for something Fluttershy could wear, the yellow pegagus spoke to Bertholdt. "I know I was able to help Rarity get noticed by Photo Finish, but I'm still very nevrous". She said. Bertholdt nodded in agreement. "I understand that feeling. You know Reiner and I used to be soldiers right"? He asked. Fluttershy nodded her head. "Well, whenever we had to go on a mission I would always get nervous, but Reiner would always be there to help me get over my nerves, and I'm going to be here to help you". Fluttershy smiled. "Thank you Bertholdt, I just knew I could count on you". She smiled, then she looked back up at him. "Still though I can't believe you and Reiner had to be soldiers at such young ages, aren't you only 16"? She asked. Bertoldt nodded "Acutally I've been a solider since I was seven". He replied. Fluttershy gasped. "Since you were seven? Did all this happen in your hometown"? She asked. Bertholdt nodded. "I hope you don't mind me asking, but why would you want to return there if It makes children into soliders"? Fluttershy asked. "Well I will admit there are somethings that aren't all that great in my hometown, but my family is there, listen there are things I want to tell you Fluttershy, but now isn't the right time, but one day I promise I will tell you everything about me". Bertholdt replied. Fluttershy just nooded in agreement. She new both Reiner, and Bertholdt were hiding something from everypony, but she never talked about her suspicions in front of them. The only others who also knew Reiner, and Bertholdt had a secret were Twilight, and Apple Bloom, but all three of them agreed per Twilight's suggestion that the two of them had a right to their secrets, and if they wanted to share them they would, and that nopony else should pressure them into revealing anything they don't want to. As the two of them kept talking, Rarity was still looking for something for Fluttershy to wear during the photoshoot. "No, no, no." She muttered to herself before finally finding something. It was a white sparkle shirt, and pants with blue trims running along parts of it. Rarity pulled Fluttershy behind the curtin and put her inside of it. Once Fluttershy was in the clothes she came out as Rarity smiled. "Photo Finish is going to love it. Everypony is going to love it!" The unicorn beamed. Fluttershy smiled. "Oh, I am so excited for you. Just don't forget us little ponies when you become the most famous designer in all of Equestria." she replied. "Yeah, well all be rooting for you". Bertholdt stated. "Don't worry, I'll never forget any of you, you're all my best friends". Rarity reassured them. Soon Photo Finish arrived being carried by two stallions. "Put me down here". she demanded. As soon as she was let down Photo Finish took one look at what Fluttershy was wearing. However her reaction was the exact opposite of what Rarity, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt were expecting. "Oh, nonononononono. The model should be in something simple! Something inspired by... the nature!" Photo Finish stated. Rarity looked at her in confusion, but quickly caught herself. "That's just what I was thinking. Um... give me a moment and I'll, uh, put a little something together." She promised. However Photo Finish just stared at her. "Yes... that will not be necessary." She told Rarity. "What"? Bertholdt asked in confusion. "But... but... how are you going to help me "shine across Equestria" if I don't design something new for these pictures?' Rarity stammered. Photo Finish turned around and looked directly at Rarity. "I am not going to help you shine across Equestria. I am going to help her shine. She is my star". She said pointing at Fluttershy who looked up in shock. Photo Finish then turned back to Rarity. "You go"! She demanded. Rarity, and Bertholdt then watched as Fluttershy was forcabliy dragged away by Photo Finish's assaisants. Rarity didn't want to show it, but her world was shattered. It seemed like all her dreams had been taken away from her just like that. Her heart was broken. Once Fluttershy was forced into another dress she went back over to Rarity and Bertholdt. "I can't Rarity". She told them. Rarity however turned and looked at Fluttershy. "Oh, but you must, Fluttershy. Photo Finish wants to make you a star. This is the opportunity of a lifetime. I know we were both hoping it would be my lifetime, but nonetheless you can't throw away this chance. You must do this for me. You must. You must! You must!" She insited. Fluttershy sighed, and nodded. "Okay, but only if you come with me Bertholdt". She said to the stalion. Bertholdt nodded his head. "Uh, yeah sure". He replied. Fluttershy smiled in relief just as Photo Finish called out to her. "Floottershy! It is time to make... the magics!" Fluttershy turned to Rarity once more, and the unicorn mare nodded her head. Fluttershy sighed, and walked over to Photo Finish, Bertholdt following close behind. "Oh, wunderbar! You are like a delicate flower. So much more alluring without all those sparkles und feathers." Photo Finish admired. As they left Rarity looked down, and left the park. Back at Carousel Botique Rarity was in her room sewing herself a black cloak just as Spike, Reiner, Twilight, and Pinkie Pie came in with big smiles on their faces, each of them exicted to know how the meeting with Photo Finish went. "How'd it go? How'd it go?" Pinkie Pie asked eagerly. "It didn't. Photo Finish wanted to work with Fluttershy, not me." Rarity explained. Hearing that the four friends looked sadly at Rarity. "Oh, Rarity. I'm so sorry." Twilight replied. "Is there anything we can do for you"? Reiner asked. "I just vant to be alone right now." Rarity answered as she draped the hood of the cloak over her head, and turned away. Twilight, Reiner, and Pinkie Pie all tried to go towards her, only for Spike to stop them. "You heard her. She vants to be... alone." He said as he began to push the three of them out the door. He then tried to turn around on go back towards Rarity only for Twilight to drag him back out by the tail. Spike looked up them with a nervous grin as they glared at him. "What? I didn't think she meant alone alone." He stated with a sheepish grin on his face. At another location Fluttershy was being fitted for a new dress, and makeup by Photo Finish's assistants. Bertholdt was waiting outside the room passing back and forth. Photo Finish had allowed for him to come along, but he wasn't allowed in the room when Fluttershy was getting fitted. Back inside the room one of the make up artist put some blush on Fluttershy's face. Photo Finish stared intently for a bit. "Too much blush". She stated. So the blush was taking off, but now Photo Finish thought it was too little now. "Not enough". She said. So it was but back on. "Too much". She said. So it was taken off. "Not enough Said. So it was put back on. "Perfect". Photo Finish stated finally satisfied. Fluttershy however wasn't satisfied or happy, and with all the dust that had been blown into her face caused her noise to tickle. "Ah... Aaah...Choo" Fluttershy let out a small sneeze. "Oh, yes! Even her schneezes are graceful. Now go! How do you feel? Excited? Overjoyed? Thrilled beyond your wildest dreams"? Photo Finish asked. "N... nervous." Fluttershy replied confusing Photo Finish. "Nervous? Dun be ridiculous. You're only facing a large crowd of ponies who will be watching your every move and silently judging you." She told Fluttershy which made the pegagus even more nervous. All of a sudden music began playing. The show was beginging. A smile formed on Photo Finish's face. "Your cue! Now go!" As she shoved Fluttershy out onto the stage. Fluttershy fliched at all the flashing lights, and pictures being taken of her. She scaned the area, and breath a sigh of relief when she spotted Bertholdt in the distance watching her. Just knowing he was was there made Fluttershy feel a little better. She took a deep breath, "You can't let Rarity down. You must do this. You must. You must. You must." Fluttershy said to herself internly as she began to walk down the runway, and show off the dress she was wearing. After a few moments the crowd began cheering. "So graceful". One pony said. "So lovely". Said another. Even Hoity Toity was there. "So perfect for my new advertisement." He stated. Soon, Fluttershy was extremly famous, appearing on the front covers of every famous fashion magazine in Equestria. She was even given the red carpet at an event. However when Rarity tried to enter she was denied access which made her extremly frustrated. It seemed that everywhere Rarity went she saw Fluttershy's face. Even Applejack was selling Fluttershy merch at Sweet Apple Acers, and Rainbow Dash was flying overhead with a Fluttershy banner. Oh boy Rarity was getting peeved. Currently Publicly Available Information Equestra's fashion Magazines. Equestria's Fashion Magazines are a collection of Magaizens created in order to show the latest trends of fashion to ponies throught Equestria. Bertholdt sat in the hotel room that he and Fluttershy stayed in during her tour. He waited for what felt like hours when the door opened and Fluttershy came in. "How'd it go"? Bertholdt asked. Fluttershy didn't say anything. "Did everything work out okay"? Bertholdt asked again. Again no response, Fluttershy just slowly began walking towards the bed that Bertholdt was sitting on. Once she got there she climbed up onto it, and hugged Bertholdt who was taken aback for a moment. He was about to say something when he felt Fluttershy begin to tremble. Now Bertholdt was really confused, and nervous, he had no idea what to do in this type of situation. "Fluttershy are you okay, do you want me to get something"? He asked as he was about to get up only for Fluttershy to hold him tighter. "No"! She whimpered. "No? Well what do you want me to do"? Bertholdt asked. "Just, stay like this. Please". Fluttershy replied as she clung to Bertholdt. Bertholdt knowing Fluttershy was defenitly overwhelmed by all the stress of being famous did what Fluttershy asked of him, and held her in his hooves, all while remembering one of his old friends from the 104th cadets who hugged him in a simlar way, and said the exact sames words. "Just, stay like this. Please". "Sasha". Bertholdt murrmed to himself. "Don't worry Fluttershy, I'll stay by your side no matter what". Bertholdt reassured the yellow peagus, who just squeaked in response. A few days after Fluttershy's tour across Equestria she was back in Ponyville. However she was trying to stay low due to how famous she was now. She really hated all the attention she was getting, and hoped that nopony besides her friends would see her. However Fluttershy's prayer's went unanswered when she was spotted by someone. "It's Fluttershy"! They exclaimed. Immeditdely Fluttershy began running from her "Fans". who began chasing after. Fluttershy turned a corner only to be blocked by ponies with cameras who began to surrond her. She tried to fly away, but there were pegasi in the sky too. Fluttershy really hated being a model. She had to think quickly, and thought of the only place she could go in order to escape. Carosuel Boutique. Rarity, who was busy working on a dress looked up. When she saw Fluttershy she tried to force a smile. "Wow. Look how popular you are. I'm so excited for you. You must be having the best time ever." She said. "Oh, yes. Best time ever..." Fluttershy replied with a hint of sarcasam in her voice that Rarity didn't noticed. Just then Photo Finish bursted into Carousel Boutique. "Floottershy! I have been looking for you everywhere. We have the thing at the place". She exclaimed. "I'll see you at the spa? Our usual time?" Fluttershy asked as she was dragged away. "Of course! I can't wait to hear all about the... "thing at the place". Rarity replied still with that forced smile on her face. However once they were gone Rarity's smile immeiditly turned into an angry scowl. "I'm the one who should be mobbed by strangers wherever I go." She groaned. Just then the door to her shop burst open once again. "Welcome to Carousel Boutique!" Rarity exlcaimed with a smile two Bon Bon, and Berry Punch who had just come in. "Is she still here? We heard Fluttershy was here." Bon Bon said excitedly. Rarity frowned. "Oh you just missed her". She replied, but then went back into a customer service smile. "But you're still in luck. I'm having a huge sale on some of my best designs". Rarity informed the two of them. However Bon Bon, and Berry Punch just stared at Rarity. "And you are...?" Bon Bon asked "Rarity of course". Rarity replied. "Never heard of you". Bon Bon stated "Yes you have bitch". Rarity said in her head. However she just stared at the two of them before sighing. "If you're not going to buy anything then leave". Rarity told the two of them who promptely left just as Reiner, and Twilight walked in. "Hey Rarity, you okay"? Reiner asked. Rarity sighed. "Not really". she stated. "Well do you want to talk about it"? Asked Twilight. Rarity gave the two of them a small smile. "Yes, and I know the perfect place". Rarity, Twilight, and Reiner all walked into a cafe downtown. "Rarity, is there a spefic reason why you wanted to come to this cafe"? Reiner asked. Rarity just nodded. The three ponies walked into the cafe, and were greeted by Apple Bloom who was wearing a waitress uniform. Reiner, and Twilight were shocked to see her, but Rarity just smiled. Hearing the door open Apple Bloom turned to face the ponies who just walked in. "Hello, and welcome". She stopped when she saw who it was. "Oh, Miss, Rarity, Miss, Twilight, and Mr. Braun, what brings you here today"? Apple Bloom asked. "Apple Bloom, you work here"? Reiner asked. Before Apple Bloom could reply Rarity spoke up "Hello Apple Bloom darling table for three please". Rarity simply stated not answering Apple Bloom's question. Apple Bloom just nodded. "Of course, right this way". She replied. Apple Bloom led the three of them to a booth at the end of the cafe, and placed down three menus in front of them. She then turned to Reiner. "To answer your question Mr. Braun, yes I do work here, but only on Fridays and Satardays". She replied. "Why"? Asked Twilight. "Well the farm has been low on money, so Applejack suggested that I get a part time job to help out, and also to get my mind off of somethings". Apple Bloom replied. "What kind of things"? Twilight asked. "That's. Personal". Apple Bloom replied. "Come on I'll show you three to your booth". she as she led Twilight, Applejack, and Reiner to the end of the cafe, and gave them each menus. "Here you are, and somepony with be with you very shortly". Apple Bloom replied, she then turned to Rarity. "Oh, and Miss Rarity, I heard about what happpend with Photo Finish". Apple Bloom said sadly. "Oh it's alright, I'll mange". Rarity replied. Apple Bloom smiled, and walked away to help other customers. Meanwhile with Fluttershy, Bertholdt, and Photo Finish at another photo shoot. Fluttershy was standing a few feet back next to Bertholdt as Photo Finish spoke with the photographers. "Obviously I, Photo Finish, am thwilled to have found her." She told them. Meanwhile Fluttershy just stood still looking nervous, somehting Bertholdt noticed. "What's wrong Fluttershy"? he asked. "I'm suppose to be meeting Rarity at the spa soon". Fluttershy replied. "Alright then go tell Photo Finish that". Bertholdt told her. "Okay". Said Fluttershy, and she walked up to Photo Finish. "Um... Photo Finish?" She tried to get her attention, but Photo Finish was too busy to notice. "I only need to point and shoot, and I capture... the magics!" Photo Finish told the repoters. Finally she was done, and Fluttershy went up to her. " Photo Finish, I'm so sorry to interrupt. It's just that I'm running late." Fluttershy said. This caused Photo Finish to gasp in shock. "How could I have forgotten?!" She exclaimed. Fluttershy smiled thinking Photo was going to let her go. She looked back at Bertholdt who smiled back at her. Fluttershy then started to make her way over to Bertholdt only for Photo Finish to grab her. "Your appearance at the ballet opening! Everypony who is anypony will be there." Photo Finishe exclaimed causing both Fluttershy, and Bertholdt to gasp in shock. "Oh, actually I'm supposed to be meeting my friend..." Fluttershy tried to say, but Photo Finish wasn't listening. "We go"! She stated as she led Fluttershy away. "Ms. Finish hold" Bertholdt tried to speak up only for Photo Finish to shoot him a glare. "You hush Mr. Hoover you aren't even suppose to be here, but my star begged me to let you come along". Photo Finish said making Bertholdt shut his mouth. "Damnit Reiner, you should be here too". Bertholdt thought to himself. Back at the spa house Rarity, and Twilight sat in the bath. Reiner had decieded to go back home after they left the cafe. "My hooves are getting positively pruney, I've been waiting here so long. Obviously Fluttershy's just too busy with her new career to spend time with her best friend." Rarity complained. "I'm sure she just got tied up." Twilight said trying to reassure Rarity. "Of course she did. She's a big bright shining star! I wish that star would burn out." Rarity said bitterly. Twilight gasped in shock after Rarity said that. "Rarity! Fluttershy is your friend." She scolded. "I know, I know. And I should be happy for her, but instead I'm just... jealous! Oh, please promise you won't tell her I feel this way. Please, please, pleasepleaseplease!" Rarity begged. Twilight nodded in agreement. "You have my word. Losing a friend's trust is the fastest way to lose a friend." "Forever"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed suddendly apperaing out of a bowl of cookies. "What the, how did you"? Twilight began to ask. "Don't question it"! Pinkie Pie replied glaring at Twilight as she disappered back down into the bowl. A while later Rarity got herelf fitted into a new gown, and went out to show it to Twilight. "Wow! You look great!" Twilight complemted. Rarity simply smiled. "Fluttershy may be the one who's famous, but that doesn't mean I have to stop looking fabulous." She stated before taking her leave. Just then, as soon as Rarity was gone Fluttershy came rushing in. "Rarity! I'm so sorry I'm... " She began, only to see that Rarity wasn't there, only Twilight. "Oh no. She's already gone, isn't she?" Fluttershy realized. "Sorry". Twilight replied trying to comfort her. "Oh, I can't believe this. I am so frustrated, I could just scream." Fluttershy groaned. She then took a deep breath, and let out a very tiny squeek. "Feel better"? Twilight asked. "No. Fluttershy replied. She then looked up at Twilight. "Can I tell you something?" She asked. "Of course Twilight replied. "You swear not to tell Rarity"? Fluttershy asked. "I promise". Twilight answered. "Pinkie Promise"? Fluttershy asked again. "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my Ooowwwww!" Twilight yelped after she poked herself in the eye. Once Fluttershy knew she could trust Twilight she began to tell Twilight her true feelings. "I don't like being a model. No, I hate being a model. All this attention is awful, just awful. And I'm only doing it because Rarity told me I must. I must! I must! I must". Fluttershy explained. "Oh, really? Well... If you wanna know the truth, Rarity..." Twilight was about to tell Fluttershy how Rarity was feeling when Pinkie Pie once to appear out of the bowl of cookies, and shake her head before sinking back down. "What were you about to say"? Fluttershy asked when Pinkie Pie appeared again. "Forever". Pinkie Pie whispered threatenligly to Twilight who turned back to Fluttershy. "Nothing". Twilight said with a nervous grin. Back in the main lobby Bertholdt sat with Reiner. "So how is Fluttershy handling being a model"? Reiner asked. Bertholdt sighed. "She defeintly doesn't like it, and neither do I. She's always surroned by ponies who get in her face, and I'm not allowed to be near her at any point during her photoshoots. I think the only reason she hasn't had a full on breakdown is because she know's I'm there with her, and giving her moral support." "If she doesn't like it then she needs to learn to stand up for herself, and tell Photo Finish she doesn't want to be a model. The same goes for you Bertholdt". Reiner stated. "What are you talking about"? Bertholdt asked. "You're physically the most powerful of the Nine Titans, the only one that can match the Colossal is the Founder. That being said you've never once truly utitlized the Colossal Titan's full potienal, and you've always had to reley on either me, or someone else telling you to do something before you actually do it. Face it Bertholdt, both you, and Fluttershy need to learn to be more asseritve." Reiner stated. Bertholdt looked down for a few minutes before speaking again. "How's Rarity doing". He asked. "I think she's handling it pretty well, but it's clear she jealous of Fluttershy's fame". Reiner replied. "Ah". Bertholdt said as he looked down again. He stared off into space for maybe about two minutes before sighing. "I wanna go home". He muttered. "Me too Bertholdt. Me too." Reiner replied. Soon Fluttershy, and Twilight came into the lobby, and walked over to the two warriors. "Hey girls, how are you doing". Reiner asked. "Were okay, but now I'm not sure what to do". Twilight admitted. "I'm actually kind of hungry". Fluttershy stated. "What about any of you"? She asked the others. "Oh, Reiner and I ate not too long ago so were good." Twilight replied. "Oh okay, how about you Bertholdt"? Fluttershy asked. Bertholdt's face flustered red. "Uh, you and me, going to a reasturaunt, together"? He stammered to which Fluttershy nodded. Bertholdt turned to look at Reiner, who nodded his head. Bertholdt then turned back to Fluttershy. "Yeah sure". He said. Fluttershy beamed happily and hugged Bertholdt. "Great then let's go". She exclaimed. Reiner, and I will hide you so you don't get mobbed by anypony out there". Twilight told them. "That would be very helpful". Fluttershy stated. Soon Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy left the spa house. Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, And Pinkie Pie were standing around Fluttershy in order to hide her from the other ponies, who were very clearly looking for her. Soon they arrived at the Cafe where Apple Bloom worked. Twilight walked up to the door, and went inside. She then walked over to the front where a worker was waiting. "Hello, and how can I help you"? He asked. "I'd like to speak to Apple Bloom". Twilight replied. "Sure wait one moment". The worker replied. Twilight waited for about three minutes when Apple Bloom came up to her. "Hi Twilight, you needed to see me"? She asked. Yeah, I need you help". Twilight then whispered the situation into Apple Bloom's ear. Apple Bloom then nodded, and turned to the worker who had greeted Twilight. "We have a code FP". She informed him. The stalion nodded his head, and pulled out a raido. "Code FP". He repeated into the raido. "On it". Said a female voice. Apple Bloom then turned to Twilight. "Come on, let's go". She replied. Twilight looked at Apple Bloom in confusion. "What's going on". She asked. "A code FP is a protocal this cafe uses whenever a famous pony comes in". Apple Bloom explained. "They must some kind of system they use when a famous pony comes". Twilight thought to herself as she followed Apple Bloom outside. Once outside Apple Bloom looked to see that the cost was clear. She then motioned for Fluttershy, and Bertholdt to come inside. Once the two of them were inside they were met by Apple Bloom, and an Elder stalion who appeared to be in his mid fifties. "Good afternoon Mr. Stanley". Apple Bloom greeted. "Come this way". Mr. Stanley said with a warm smile on his face. The four ponies walked to a door, and the back end of the cafe. Once there Apple Bloom opened it, and all of them walked down the stairs. Once down the stairs Fluttershy, and Bertholdt were amazed to find themselves in a very luxarious room. "What is this place"? Asked Bertholdt. "This is a private dining area built in for famous ponies who don't want to be bothered when they are eating". Mr. Stanley explained. "It's beautiful". Fluttershy stated. "I'll say". Bertholdt replied nodding in agreement. "When was this built"? Fluttershy asked. "About fifty years ago when a famous singer came to this resturaunt, and was swarmed by a bunch of ponies. She was unable to eat her meal, and ended up leaving. So this area was bulit so something like that wouldn't happen again". Apple Bloom explained. Mr. Stanley then turned to Apple Bloom. "Considering they are your friends I'll let you handle this, after all you are my most trusted employe". He explained. "Thank you sir". Apple Bloom replied as Mr. Stanley left. After about an hour and a half Fluttershy, and Bertholdt left the cafe, and met up with Twilight, and Reiner. "Hey you two, how was it". Reiner asked causing Bertholdt to glare at him embarrsed. Fluttershy however just smiled. "It was wonderful! So quiet, and peaceful, it was just amazing to not be mobbed by so many ponies". She explained. "Well I'm glad you enjoyed yourself". Twilight replied. Later the four ponies were walking across town, with Fluttershy wearing some sort of disguse as a way to hid herself. After walking around in silence for a few minutes Twilight finally broke the silence. "I was just thinking. If you really don't like being a model, you could always quit." She suggested. "That's right, just tell Photo Finish you don't wanna do this anymore". Reiner replied. Fluttershy however shook her head. "Oh, no. I could never do such a thing. Rarity would be devastated." But Rarity Told me". Twilight began only to stop when Pinkie Pie appeared from a basket of apples and glared at her making Twilight shut up real quick. Pinkie Pie watched continued to watch Twilight as she took a bite out of the apple in her hoof. Once she did though her angry scowl instantly turned into a happy smile. "Mmm... Juicy!" She excalimed happily. "Uhhhhhh!" Twilight groaned. "What were you talking about eairler Twilight"? Bertholdt asked. "Oh, um nothing". Twilight replied. She smiled sheepishly at the others. "Oh, if only all these ponies didn't like me so much. Photo Finish wouldn't want me to model anymore. She'd find somepony else with... the magic!" Fluttershy stated. Twilight looked down. "I guess you're right". she replied. Then all of a sudden an idea flew into her horn. "You're right. You're right, you're right, you're right!" Twilight exclaimed as she jumped around exictedly. However in doing so she knocked off Fluttershy'd disguse. "It's Fluttershy". Said a pony. And soon enough Fluttershy was swarmed by a crowd. So Reiner, Twilight, and Bertholdt had to drag her away. "So what are you planning Twilight"? Reiner asked. "Simple. Fluttershy there's no way you could ever make yourself look bad, but if I use my magic to make you look bad instead, then Photo Finish won't want you to model anymore". Twilight replied. "Really, you'd do that for me"? Fluttershy asked. Twilight nodded. Fluttershy threw herself onto Twilight and gave her a big hug. "Oh thank you thank you thank you"! She exclaimed. "Can't breath". Twilight choked as Fluttershy hugged her. Twilight went over to Sugarcube Corner, and told Pinkie Pie her plan to use her magic to make Fluttershy look bad. "Don't you see? On her own, Fluttershy could never do something unattractive. But if I used my magic to help her do something unattractive at her next fashion show, no one will ever want her to model again. And if Fluttershy no longer has to be a model, Rarity will no longer have to be jealous of her. And I'll no longer have to keep their secrets! It's the perfect plan"! Twilight explained. She then ran up and got real close to Pinkie Pie. "You can't tell anyone about it. Promise me you won't tell anyone?" She asked. Pinkie Pie responed by zipping her lips, and then doing some weird movements which only proceeded to confuse Twilight. "So, do you promise or not"? Twilight asked. "Uh, yes! Obviously, that's why I zipped my mouth closed, then locked it with a key, then dug a hole, then buried the key, then built a house on top of the hole where I buried the key, then moved into the house on top of the hole." Pinkie Pie explained. "Of course you did". Twilight muttered. The next day Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt and Fluttershy stood behind the stage of another one of Fluttershy's shows. A huge crowd was waiting to see Fluttershy in anticpated exictment. Fluttershy saw this, and gulped nevously. She turned to face Twilight. "You really think it'll work?" Fluttershy asked. Twilight nodded with a smile. "They love you for being you. So all I have to do is make you not be you. Just leave it to me." She replied with confidince just as music began playing. "Looks like it's starting". Bertholdt pointed out. "I hope this works". Reiner stated. Back outfront Rarity came into the show wearing one of the dresses she made. "Guess it's time to see what all the fuss is about". She murmered as Fluttershy stepped out onto the stage. Fluttershy took a few steps as Twilight peeked from behind the curtain. She then lit up her horn, and made Fluttershy trip. The audiance, Photo Finish, and Rarity all gasped in shock as Twilight made Fluttershy's body do all sort of strange and unnattractive movements. Then Twilight made Fluttershy pick her nose. "Really"? Reiner asked. "She has to look as unnattractive as possible so Photo Finish won't want her to model anymore". Twilight replied. Reiner just sighed as Twilight continued. Rarity looked on from afar. At first she found it quite amussing as Fluttershy began to act like a dog, but then she started to look concerned as the other ponies we're look at her friend in disgust. "Oh no". She whispered in fear. Finally Fluttershy began to bray like a donkey, and that was the final straw for the audiance. "Get her off the stage". Golden Harverst exclaimed. "She's an embarrassment to all things fashion!" Stated Lemon Hearts as the crowd started booing. Fluttershy appeared to look sad, but secretly she was happy that everyone now hated her. "I, Photo Finish, have made a terrible mistake!" Photo Finish exclaimed which made Fluttershy even more happy. "It worked". Bertholdt stated excitedly. However Rarity couldn't stand to hear her friend being booed at. Even though she was jealous of all the fame and attention Fluttershy was getting Rarity felt she had to do something, so she did. "Bravo! I say bravo!" She cheered confusing everyone. "Bravo? Who could possibly say bravo to that horrid display?" A pony named Lyrica Lilac asked in disbelif as Rarity kept on cheering. "Such attitude! Such pizzazz! She's invented an entirely new kind of modeling! Bravo!" "Who is saying this things"? Lilac asked. That was when another pony, Royal Ribbon spotted Rarity and gasped. "It's her. The unicorn in the gorgeous cape and headdress." She stated. Lyrica Lilac looked at Rarity, and admired her. "Now that is a pony who clearly knows a thing or two about fashion. Well, if that fabulous pony likes it, then I do too! Bravo!" She cheered, and soon the crowd was once again cheering for Fluttershy making her moan, While Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt groaned. Back inside Fluttershy's dressing room she was venting her frustrations to the other three. "This is awful. Just awful! Somehow I've become more popular than ever. Oh, I'm so frustrated I could just kick something!" She said as she gentely tapped a vase. "That make you feel any better"? Reiner asked. Fluttershy just sighed. "If only Rarity didn't want me to be a model". She complained. This proceeded to extremley Frustrate Twilight. "Ugh! But Rarity...!" Twilight quickly covere her mouth confusing the others. Just then Rarity burst into the room. "Fluttershy! Are you alright". She asked in concered. "Im great. I'm a super famous fashion model. Why wouldn't I be great?". Fluttershy lied with a fake smile on her face. This frustrated Twilight even more. "Because you ha.....! Again Twilight covered her mouth. "Twi you good"? Bertholdt asked. Twilight just nodded with sweat dripping down her forehead. "Out there on the runway, everyone was turning on you and... Oh... Oh, Fluttershy. It's so awful. I wanted them to." Rarity admited. "You did"? Fluttershy asked in confusion. "Of course she did! Because...!" This time Twilight shoved a bunch of fruit into her mouth. Rarity turned to Fluttershy, and finally admited how she was feeling. "I'm jealous! I wanted all the attention. And instead it was going to you. I even started hoping that you would do something silly so your modeling career would be over. But then, when it started happening, all I could think was how could I want you to fail at something you love so much?" She stated. "But... Fluttershy doesn't... Ugh"! Twilight ran over to a potted plant and burried her head inside. Now it was Fluttershy's turned to admit her feelings. "Love? Oh Rarity I hate being a model". She said. "You do"? Rarity asked. "More then anything". Fluttershy replied as Bertholdt walked up to the two of them nodding in agreement. "She comes back to the hotel in tears every single night". Bertholdt stated. Rarity stared at Fluttershy. She had been completly unaware of how negetively modeling was effecting her. "Oh Fluttershy if you didn't like being a model, then why did you keep doing". Rarity asked. "I was afraid if I quit, you'd be mad at me for not wanting to... "shine all over Equestria". Fluttershy stated as tears began to fill her eyes. Rarity walked over to Fluttershy, and gave her a big hug all while admiting her own feelings. "And I thought if I told you how jealous I was of your success, you'd think I was a terrible friend." Fluttershy gasped. "Never"! Rarity sighed. "All this time". "If we had just told the truth". Fluttershy stated. Rarity looked at Fluttershy and smiled. "I promise never to keep my feelings in secret again." She said. "Me too". Fluttershy agreed. "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." They both said in unison before laughing. Just then Photo Finish came into the room "You were brilliant. Brilliant! I've already got six photo shoots lined up for tomorrow alone." She told Fluttershy who just smirked. "I'm sorry, Photo Finish, but I don't think I'll be able to make any of them." She apologized. "Whaaat?" Photo Finish exclaimed. Rairty and Fluttershy just smirked, before high hoofing each other, "We go"! They cheered as they left followed by Berthodt, and Reiner leaving both a very confused Photo Finish, and very frustrated Twilight Sparkle behind. "Vat has just happend"? Photo Finish asked. As Twilight stuck her had out of the vase. "Spike has a crush on Rarity"! She exclaimed. Pinkie Pie then appeared in the mirror and sighed. "And you were doing so well". She said. Twilight then turned to Pinkie Pie with fury in her eyes. Pinkie Pie saw this, and gulped, before chucking nervously. Twilight then walked over, and grabbed a pipe off the wall. "Yikes"! Pinkie Pie yelped as Twilight began to chase her around town. The next day Fluttershy, Rarity, Apple Bloom, Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Spike were back at the spa. "Ah, now this is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon Fluttershy said while she sat in the spa tub. "Isn't it though"? Rarity replied from inside the steam bath. "I couldn't agree more". Apple Bloom stated from inside the mud pool. "I'm glad you too were able to work things out. She told Rarity, and Fluttershy". "Yep, in the end everything worked out". Bertholdt said. "Well, almost everything". Reiner replied as he turned over to Twilight who was resiting her letter to the princess. "Dear Princess Celestia, Being a good friend means being able to keep a secret. But you should never be afraid to share your true feelings with a good friend". Once she was done, she turned to Spike. "Did you get all that, Spike?" She asked. "No. I did not. I still can't believe you told someone about my secret feelings for Rarity." Spike stated angrily. Twilight gave him a small smile. "You're right. That was wrong of me, and I'm very sorry." She apologized. "Apology accepted." Spike Replied. Twilight smiled. "Now will you take down my letter to Princess Celestia"? She asked. "I would love to. But... I'm a little busy at the moment." Spike stated as he began to fan Rarity. Twilight just sighed. Preview Twilight, and her friends are headed to Applaloosa to visit Applejack, and Apple Bloom's cousin. However while on the way they encounter a heard a bufflo who don't want anymore apple trees planted in their territoty. Next Episode. Over a Barrel Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Fluttershy Louts Blossm Rarity Aloe Reiner Braun Twilight Sparkle Pinkie Pie Bertholdt Hoover Spike Apple Bloom Big Macintosh (Flashback) Photo Finish Hoity Toity Lyra Heartstrings Derpy Hooves Lemon Hearts Twinkleshine Applejack Rainbow Dash Sasha Braus (Flashback) Golden Harvest Shoeshine Minnuette Sweetie Drops Berry Punch Mr. Stanley Gala Appleby Daisy Goldengrape Cherry Berry Samatha Cheerlie Lyrica Lilac Royal Ribbon Episode 28: Over a Barrel: Gala arc Part 21A train was chugging along the track. The Mane Eight, Spike, and Apple Bloom were on their way to the town of Applelossa to bring them a very important Apple tree that had been planted on Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack was inside the caboose of the train with said tree reading it a bedtime story. "And that's when the yellow birdie thought to himself, "Hmm. My favorite little tree isn't such a little tree anymore." So she sang her song, big and strong, and they all lived in that great, big tree happily ever after. The... end." Applejack smiled, and then started to tuck the tree in when Rarity walked in. "Applejack! Were you reading a bedtime story to... an apple tree?" She asked in disbelif. Applejack turned to Rarity and chuckled nervously. "Heh... uh... Well, ya know, bein' replanted in a whole new place is very upsettin' for a tree... and Bloomberg here is one of my favorites." She replied. Rarity started to complain just as Apple Bloom walked in. "No fair, Applejack! You've got a luxurious, private sleeper car for a tree, while I am crowded and cramped in the same car with all the other ponies. How am I supposed to get my beauty sleep?!" "But Bloomberg's the whole reason we're makin' this trip. He needs his rest so we can give him as a gift to my relatives in Appleloosa." Applejack argued. "Hmph! You talk about it as if it's your baby or something." Rarity countered. That made Applejack cross. "Who you callin' a baby?! Bloomberg's no baby"! Applejack snapped before turning to the tree. "Don't wet widdle Rarity make you all saddy-waddy. Bloomberg's a big and strong apple tree. Yes, he is. A-coochie-coochie-coo-coo-coo!" "It's widdle Rarity who's all "saddy-waddy"! Urgh!" Rarity groaned before turning to Apple Bloom, who looked like she was about to die of embarrsment after seeing Applejack do that with the tree. "Can you believe how Applejack is treating that tree". Rarity asked. Apple Bloom just sighed. As badly as she wanted the ground to open up and swallow her at that moment, she still understood how important Bloomberg was. "Forget it Ms. Rarity, like you said that tree basiclay Applejack's child, but you can't blame her Bloomberg is actually very special to our family." "How come"? Rarity asked. Apple Bloom sighed, and looked down sadly. Rarity instantly knew then that Apple Bloom was going to talk about her parents. "It was the last tree our parents planted before they passed. I remember Applejack promised Ma, and Daddy that she would take extra good care of it." Apple Bloom explained. Rarity didn't say anything. She just pulled Apple Bloom in, and gave her a hug. She now how hard it was for the little filly to talk about her parents, espiecaly after what happened to them. After a few moments Rarity let go of Apple Bloom. "Let's head back. She said. Apple Bloom nodded in agreement. That night, the train was still moving. Inside the passager coach Rarity was trying to get some sleep, but the others were so excited about the trip that they kept chattering. "Oh man, we're going fast! This is so exciting, I can't even wait!" Said Rainbow Dash. "Oh my goodness". Twilight replied with glee. "This is going to be amazing". Stated Reiner. "It's nice to visit new places". Berthold replied. "For crying out loud in the morning!" Rarity groaned as she burried her face under her pillow in order to drown out the noise. "I can't wait!" Fluttershy said. "Yeah, yeah! Oh, my gosh!" Said Rainbow Dash. Now the noise was starting to bother Spike who was also trying to sleep. "Do you guys mind? I was up early fire-roasting those snacks you're all eating, and I'm pooped!" He groaned Rainbow Dash smirked at him "Uh, speaking of, some of these popcorn kernels didn't get popped." She told him. Spike sighed. "Okay fine". He then blasted Rainbow Dash's bag with his fire breath completly destroying. "Good night"! Spike snapped as he went back to sleep. Twilight looked around nervously. "Uhh... maybe it's time we all got a little shut-eye. We've got a big day ahead of us tomorrow." She said. Reiner nodded in agreement. "She's right, we're going to need all the strength we need if were going to plant the tree tommorow". He stated. "AWWW". Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy all complained. "Oh don't be like that you three". Reiner stated. So Twilight turned out the candle, and the ponies tried to get some sleep. However something was bothering Rainbow Dash, and she couldn't sleep. "Pinkie Pie you up"? She asked. "Yes, are you". The pink horse repiled as she grabbed a candle and went over to Rainbow Dash who also had a candle. "If I was sleeping, how could I have asked you if you were up"? Rainbow Dash asked. "Oh right good point". Pinkie Pie stated. Rainbow Dash side, and spoke to Pinkie Pie. "When we get to Appleloosa, you think we'll have to carry that heavy tree all the way from the train to the orchard?" She asked. "What tree? You mean Bloomberg"? Question Pinkie Pie. "No, Fluttershy". Rainbow Dash replied. This confused Pinkie, because Fluttershy wasn't a tree, so she told Rainbow Dash this. "Fluttershy's not a tree, silly!" Pinkie Pie stated. Soon the conversation caught the attention of Twilight and Reiner who came over to see what the other two were talking about. "What's going on"? Twilight asked. "Dash think's Fluttershy's a tree". Pinkie Pie stated. "No I don't"! Replied Rainbow Dash sternley. "Did you say she was a tree"? Asked Reiner. "No. Well.. Yes. But not exactly–" Rainbow Dash tried to explain herself only for Twilight to intterupt her. "You know she's not a tree right"? She asked. "She's not a tree Dashie". Said Pinkie Pie. "I'd like to be a tree". Fluttershy replied joining the conversation. "You'd make a perfect cherry blossom tree, especialy since they grow pink flowers in the spring"? Bertholdt stated as he too joined the converstion. Finally Spike had had enough of the constant noise". "Oh for pete's sake"! He snapped. He then got up, and went into to the caboose where bloomberg was. The others all looked on in confusion over what happend. "Well that was kind of huffy." Twilight replied. "Huffy the magic dragon". Fluttershy snickered. Soon all of the started Giggling. Rarity who was also trying to sleep turned to them. "Would you all be quiet... now?!" She snapped. She was wearing a mud mask, and cucumbers in her eyes which made her alot more terryfing in the dark. Seeing that caused the others to scream, and Twilight quickly turned out the lights. Spike walked into the caboose. "Bloomberg, Bloomberg". he called. He wasn't expectin an answer, and was complety suprised when he heard a voice. "Spike"? The voice whispered. "Woah"! Spike gasped. "You can talk"? "No, it's me". Apple Bloom replied as she lifted her head from behind Bloomberg. "Oh, Apple Bloom I'm sorry, I had no idea you were in here". "I'm guessing you couldn't sleep in there either"? Apple Bloom nodded. "Yeah, but I can go back". Spike said. "No don't worry, there's plenty of room". Apple Bloom stated. This made Spike nervous. "But, I'm a boy, and you're a girl. Us sleeping in the same bed, wouldn't that"? Apple Bloom shushed Spike before he could finish. "Spike, in case you forgot there is a big tree in between us, so were not going to be right next to each other, so are you just going to stand there or what"? Apple Bloom asked sternly. Spike sighed. He was too tired to argue, so he climbed into the bed on the other side of Bloomberg. "Sorry, just letting you know that I tend to snore". Spike told Apple Bloom who just sighed. "That's fine, goodnight Spike". Apple Bloom said. "Goodnight Apple Bloom". Spike replied. The next morning the train was still moving along. Inside the caboose Apple Bloom woke up, she looked over, and saw Spike still asleep. Decieding not to wake him up Apple Bloom stepped outside to get some fresh air. Outside the sun shone high in the sky, Apple Bloom smiled as the wind blew in her hair, she then looked up at the sky. "Mama, Daddy I promise Applejack, Big Mac, and I will make you proud." She whispered as a tear left her eye though she quickly wipped it away. All of a sudden she saw what appeard to be a small dust cloud heading towards the train, and within the next few seconds the train was surronded by a herd of bufflo. Apple Bloom was amazed, she had never seen a bufflo before, and wanted to get to know them. "Hi". She tried to talk to them but they took no notice of her. Apple Bloom didn't mind, she wanted to tell Spike about the bufflo. She was about to go back in when BANG! The train shook, Apple Bloom looked and saw that the bufflo were attacking the train, specficly the couch where Twilight, and the others were. "Oh no, what are they doing"?! Apple Bloom asked in shock. She attempted to get back into the caboose when another WHAM knocked her off the train. Apple Bloom rolled, and tumbled down a hill, cuts, and bruises started to appear all over her body. Finally she landed with a thud, and blacked out. Meanwhile back on the train the others notice the herd too. "A bufflo stampede"! Twilight said in aww. "I wonder where they came from"? Asked Bertholdt. No one replied to his question. "I just love their accessories!" Rarity stated. The ponies all admired the bufflos, but soon they realized that they were getting closer, and closer. "They're getting pretty close to the train". Reiner pointed out. Then there was trouble. WHAM The bufflos slammed into the train knocking the ponies backward, and forward. "I want to speak to the manager"! Exclamied Rarity. Back in the caboose Spike had no idea what was going on. Suddenly two adult bufflo's stacked on top of each other, allowing for a calf to hop onto their backs. "Oooh, looky! Now they're doing tricks! Ooh! Ooh! Ooh! Now do a backflip!... Or... Just jump?" Pinkie Pie said in confusion as the little calf jumped onto the roof. "Hmm.. Something tells me this isn't a circus act." Rainbow Dash said as she flew up to confront the calf. "Hey there. Where ya headed in such a hurry? ". Rainbow Dash said as she appeared infront of the calf. The calf was shocked to see Rainbow Dash, but quickly jumped over her shocking the blue pegasus. Rainbow Dash quickly got over the intital shock and began to purse the calf. "Wow, you're pretty quick for someone so... bulky. No offense". She said before once again flying in order to slow the calf down. However the calf just dodged Rainbow Dash again. "I just wanna know–" She began to say only for the calf to dodge her again. Now Rainbow Dash was getting frustrated. "Hey! I'm talking to you– Whoa... Arrgggg... I got you now, you–" Rainbow Dash kept trying to get the little bufflo's attention, but she ended crashing into a sign and falling to the ground. Now that Rainbow Dash wasn't a problem anymore, the bufflo Calf uncoupled the cabosse, and whistled. Hearing her whistle the other bufflo ceased their assualt, and began to drag the caboose away, as Twilight, Reiner, Pinkie Pie, Bertholdt, Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy could only watch in horror as realization set in. "They've got bloomberg"! Cried Applejack. All of a sudden Spike, who had been awoken by the comotion appeared in the window. "Heeeelp!" Spike screamed. "And Spike"! Twilight shouted in horror as the train kept going further away. Rainbow Dash then came to and heard Spike scream for help. "Dragon-napping Spike, I'll show her". She said before grimcing in pain". "Ow". Back on the train the others were realing over what just happend. Reiner stared out the window, Applejack punched her pillow mutiple times, Rarity sat down in shock, Fluttershy cried, Bertholdt comforted Fluttershy, and Twilight pasted around. "What just happend"? Bertholdt asked. "Why did those bufflo attack us"? Fluttershy questioned. "I don't know, maybe the train got to close to their territory". Twilight answered. "If that's the case then why in Equestria did they take Spike, and Bloomberg"? Applejack asked. "You're right, if this was territorial behavior they would have stopped once they felt we were far away enough". Fluttershy replied. "For now we just need to get to Applealossa, and tell them what happend." Reiner stated. Everypony else nodded in agreement. "Now we know Spike has been taken by the bufflo, and Rainbow Dash most likely went after them so I wanna make sure everyone else is okay". Reiner stated. "I'm fine". Said Rarity. "Me too". Replied Bertholdt. "So am I". Twilight responded. "I'll survive". Fluttershy said meekley. "I'll be alright". Applejack said with a small smile. "Okay, I think everypony's accounted for". Twilight said when all of a sudden Applejack gasped. "Wait"! the farm pony exclaimed. She then did a headcount. "Applejack darling what ever is the matter"? Rarity asked. "Where's Apple Bloom"! She exclaimed. The other ponies gasped now realizing that the little filly was nowhere to be seen, it was then Bertholdt noticed something. "Pinkie Pie's gone too". He shouted. "What?! When did she dissappear"? Asked Rarity. Everyone once again sat around is shocked silence for a few minutes before Twilight spoke up. "Well I think it's safe to say that Pinkie Pie most likely went after Rainbow Dash, and Spike, with her being, well her". She said. Everyone appeared to agree with Twilight. "Well then what about Apple Bloom"? Fluttershy asked. "Maybe she was taken by the bufflo too". Twilight replied. "No way! She wasn't taken". Applejack stated. "How can you be so sure"? Asked Bertholdt. "Because there is no way Apple Bloom would have slept through any of that". Applejack replied. "Good point". Bertholdt said. "So then where is she"? Asked Rarity. "Maybe she got scared and is hidng"? Theroized Fluttershy. "No she would have shown herself by now". Applejack stated. Twilight thought for a moment, then she gasped in shock. "Oh no"! "What is it Twilight"? Asked Reiner. "What if, when the bufflo attacked Apple Bloom got knocked off the train"!? She exclaimed. Everypony gasped in horror thinking about that possiblity. Meanwhile back at the cliff she had fallen down Apple Bloom slowly awoke. Once she did, she felt an intense pain in her left ankle. She tried to get up, but the pain was too much, she just colosped to the ground. All of a sudden she felt the ground rumble, and soon four bufflo surrounded her. Apple Bloom was in too much pain to scream for help, and could do nothing as the bufflo lifted her onto their backs, and began to carry her away, and soon again she was out cold. Later Apple Bloom awoke to find herself on some kind of sheet in what appeared to be a tent. She groaned in confusion as she sat up, and looked around. "What happend"? She murmmered to herself as she tried to get a good understanding of her surroundings. She looked to her left, and spotted Spike sitting on what appeared to be some kind of chair made out of tree bark. When he saw Apple Bloom was awake, he went up to her. "Thank goodness you awake". He said with relief. "Spike? What happend"? Apple Bloom asked. "You were found in the middle of the desserted all dazed, and deliourous". Spike explained. Apple Bloom then remembered the bufflo, and how she was knocked off the train. "How'd I get here, and what are you doing here"? She asked. "Don't worry they brought us here". Spike told her. "Who's they"? Apple Bloom asked. "Them". Spike said as two bufflo came into the tent. When Apple Bloom saw them she instantly began to freak out. "WHAT THE HELL!" She screamed as Spike despertly tried to calm her down. "Apple Bloom relax". He said. Apple Bloom looked at Spike like he was crazy. "Relax? RELAX?! Spike they attacked the train for no reason!, They knocked me off of it, they're the reason why my leg is injured, and you're telling me to relax"?! Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Apple Bloom please, I know you're scared, and upset I was too when I was taken by them, but after they explained everything to me I understood." Spike explained. Finally Apple Bloom calmed down, and looked at Spike. "Okay, but only because I trust you". she said. Spike smiled, he was happy Apple Bloom trusted him. "Thank you Apple Bloom". He said before motioing her to look at the bufflo on the right. "Now he's a doctor, can you please let him look at your leg"? Spike asked. Apple Bloom thought for a moment. "Okay". She replied. The bufflo came up to the two of them, Apple Bloom was nervous. "I'm going to need to touch it, is that okay with you". The bufflo asked in a gentle voice. Apple Bloom nodded. The bufflo then went over, and gentle put his hoof on to Apple Bloom's injured leg. Apple Bloom had to bite her hoof to keep herself from screaming, but she let the doctor continue. "How is her leg"? Spike asked. "It's denfeintly broken, she'll need a splint, and help walking. As well as a visit to an actual pony doctor when she gets hoome". The doctor said. Spike nodded. It was then the other bufflo spoke up. "Come on, the chief wants to speak with you". He said. Spike, and the bufflo doctor both nodded, and Spike went to help Apple Bloom out of the tent. The four of them walked to a very big Bufflo with a large feather hat on his head. He stared directly at Apple Bloom who gulped nervously while Spike reassured her that everything would be okay. The bufflo then spoke. "I am Chief Thunderhooves". He boomed. Apple Bloom looked up at him with fear in her eyes. Chief Thunderhooves noticed this. "I see you are scared, and confused. I will explain everything to you. If you will allow that". He said. Apple Bloom nodded. "Yes sir". she said meekely. Chief Thunderhooves gave Apple Bloom a small reassuring smile, and began his tail. Currently Publicly Avalaibe Imformation Applelossa. A town founded by the Apple Family. It is known for it's very prosperticve apple orchard. Back with the others, the train finally arrived in Applelossa. Once it stopped Twilight, Applejack, Reiner, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt all rushed off in hopes to find somepony who could help them. However they didn't get far as they were almost instantly intterupted by a yellow stalion in a cowboy coat, and hat with an apple cutie mark. It was Applejack's cousin Braeburn, and he was delighted to see them. "Hey there! Welcome ta A-A-ppleloosa!" He greeted them "Who's that"? Asked Bertholdt. "My cousin Braeburn". Applejack replied before turning to her cousin. "Braeburn, listen–" She tried to explain only for Braeburn to interupt her. "Cousin Applejack, mind yer manners, you have yet ta introduce me to your compadres! Shame on you!" He said. Applejack just groaned and tried to speak again. "Braeburn, listen, somethin' terrible's happened–" She tried to say, but was again intterupted. "Terrible is right, your train is a full seven minutes late! That's seven minutes less for you to delight in the pleasures and wonders of... A-A-A-ppleloosa! Boggles the mind, we settler ponies built all this in just the past year, don't it?! And as you can see, we have all of the finest comforts. Like horse-drawn carriages!" He said as he pointed to a stalion pulling a carage, and then stopping. "Okay, you pull now." He said. The door to the carage flew open, and an annoyed pony stepped out. "Aww we just switched". Said the passanger. "And those there are horse-drawn horse-drawn carriages." Braeburn said pointing to them. Applejack again tried to speak. "Listen, Braeburn, I– Oof!" Applejack yelped when Braeburn interupted her again. "And here's our local waterin' hole, the Salt Block." He said pointing to a building. The group looked to see the owner throw out an elderly stalion. "That's enough salt for you!" The owner shouted. "Can't I at least... get a glass of water?" The stalion asked. Braeburn then pointed to several more buldings. "Over there's the office of Sheriff Silverstar. And here's where we have our wild west dances! And here's where we have our mild west dances!" He said. "But, Braeburn, we–" Applejack tried to say again, but was once again intterupted as Braeburn dragged them the apple tree orchard. "And here's the most wonderful sight in all of... A-A-A-ppleloosa! Our apple orchard." "Braeburn"! Applejack tried to say. "First harvest should be any day now." Braeburn said. "Braebu". Applejack again tried to get his attention, but he interupted her again. "Good thing too!" He stated. "Brae". Applejack said now loosing her paticens. "Cause we need that grub to live on." Braeburn said. "BRAEBURN"! Applejack shouted. Now she finally had his attention. "Uh, yes cuz"? he asked meekely. Applejack sighed. "You have a very nice town an' all, but we have a hu-uge problem! Some of our friends are missin'! Apple Bloom is missing. She explained Braeburn gasped now suddendly relizing that the little filly wasn't with them. "I didn't even notice she wasn't here! What happend"? He asked. "A bufflo stampede"! Fluttershy replied. "Apple Bloom was knocked off the train"! Reiner exclaimed "They took Spike"! Rarity said "Rainbow Dash went after them". Twilight informed him. "And we don't know where Pinkie Pie is". Stated Bertholdt. "And we had an apple tree with us for your orchard, but they took that too!" Applejack finished. "Did you say, bufflo"? Braeburn asked. They all nodded, and Braeburn sighed. "Them buffalo, they want us settler ponies to take every single tree you see here off this land. They sure as hell don't want any new ones added in." He explained. "But why"? Asked Fluttershy. "Beats me. We put a lot of hard work into this land, so we can feed our town, our families, our foals! And now they're sayin' all these trees have to go? T'ain't fair..." Braeburn stated. Meanwhile in the desert Rainbow Dash was sneaking around behind some rocks. "Ooh, I can't wait to get my hooves on that little buffalo..." She mutterted to herself. Then she felt a wince of pain in her head. "Ow". She groaned before continuing on. " Nobody tricks Rainbow Dash and gets away with it." She stated. "Boo"! Pinkie Pie said suddendly appering infront of Rainbow Dash causing the pegagus to yelp in suprise. "YAH"! She cried before jumping up, and falling to the ground. "Pinkie Pie". Rainbow Dash softly scolded the pink earth pony. " Ah, ya caught me! Looks like I tricked you and didn't get away with it either! You're good." Pinkie Pie giggled. "Shhshh! What do you think you're doing?! You gotta get out of here!" Rainbow Dash told Pinkie. "I do"? Pinkie Pie asked in confusion. Rainbow Dash nodded. "You're gonna blow my cover". Rainbow Dash explained. "I am"? Pinkie Pie asked again in confusion. "I'm trying to save Spike!" Rainbow Dash yelled. Pinkie Pie gasped in delight. "Oh my gosh! So am I!" She exclaimed exciedtly. Rainbow Dash then got into Pinkie Pie's face, and began to loudly scold her. "And the more of us there are out here, the more chances of us getting". Rainbow Dash stopped, and looked up to see that both of them were surronded by angry Bufflo. "Caught". Rainbow Dash sighed. She then quickly step infront of Pinkie Pie in order to protect her. "Run, Pinkie, I'll hold 'em off. Save yourself!" She ordered. The bufflo began to charge at the two ponies when a voice shouted "Stop"! from behind them. The bufflo moved to the side to reavel Spike standing in the middle of the herd looking completey fine. "Dash, Pinkie, 'sup?" He asked as Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie looked on in confusion. Spike then turned to the bufflo. "Hey, no worries, I know those guys. They're cool." He told them "If you say so, Spike. Catch ya later, bro." One of the bufflo replied as the herd left. "What's going on"? Rainbow Dash asked in confusion. "Let's head back to their camp, I'll explain everything there". Spike replied as he started to head towards the camp with Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie following behind. Spike led the two of them into the bufflo Camp. "Wait here". Spike told them as he walked into a tent. "I wonder who's in there"? Pinkie Pie asked. "I don't know, but be ready for anything". Rainbow Dash whispered. Spike then came out supporting Apple Bloom who now had some kind of splint on her left leg. She looked up, and Smiled when she saw Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie. "Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie!" The filly said in delight. "Apple Bloom, What are you doing here"? Rainbow Dash asked. Pinkie Pie looked down, and noticed the splint on Apple Bloom. "Oh my gosh Apple Bloom, Your leg! You've been hurt"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Rainbow Dash noticed to. "What happend"? Rainbow Dash asked. "I fell of the train, and broke my leg". Apple Bloom explained. Spike, and Apple Bloom then sat by a fire. "Sit down, and will explain everything". Spike said. Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash did so. "So, when the Bufflo attacked the train I was knocked off, and sent tumbling down a small hill, That's how I broke my leg". Apple Bloom explained. "And it Seems they took me by mistake. And they feel awful about it too, poor guys. Fortunately, they totally respect dragons, and since Apple Bloom was injured because of their attack they treat both of us like honored guest." Spike said. Rainbow Dash eyed the food they were given, and pushed it away in digust. "Still don't like other Ponies very much though.". Spike stated. Rainbow Dash listend until Spike was finished. "Huh. Well, I still don't trust them. I say we turn tail and bail while we still–" She began to say only to stop when she saw Pinkie Pie happily munching the slop they were given. " Mmm! Before we finish eating? Are you loco in the coco?!" Pinkie Pie asked asked the bufflo calf from before came up with a bowl of gemstones, and what looked like some kind of cream. Pinkie Pie looked up at her. "Can I please have more of that mushy stuff, whatever it was?" Pinkie Pie asked. "Certianly". The calf replied before turning to Spike. "Mr. Spike you like gemstones right?" She asked. "Turquoise. Mmm!" Spike said in delight as he took the bowl, and ate them all in one bite. The calf then turned to Apple Bloom "Apple Bloom this cream is from a rare plant that grows in these woods, It will help ease the pain in your leg". She said. Apple Bloom nodded, and began to rub the cream on her injured leg. She was delightfully suprised by how good it felt. "Wow, it's really starting to feel better". Apple Bloom stated. Both Apple Bloom, and Spike then turned to Pinkie Pie. "Oh This here is Little Strongheart, and these are my friends Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash." Spike introduced the calf who. Rainbow Dash looked at Little Strongheart, and her eyes filled with rage. "You"! She yelled. Little Strongheart also remembered Rainbow Dash, but she had a look of fear in her eyes "You"? "That's it! We are outta here!" Rainbow Dash stated. But Little Strongheart stopped them. "Wait! Please accept my apologies for what happened on the train. We didn't mean for anyone to be hurt." She explained. "Yeah Right, just look what happened to Apple Bloom"! Rainbow Dash yelled. "Rainbow Dash!" Apple Bloom scolded. Rainbow Dash looked, and could see Little Strongheart's eyes filling with tears. Rainbow Dash sighed. "I'm sorry". She said. Little Strongheart wiped her eyes. "It's okay". She said, and then she began to explain. "We only wanted the tree. The settler ponies have overtaken the land and have planted an orchard all over it! Because of their thoughtlessness, we can no longer run over our traditional stampeding grounds." She told them. "Huh"? Both Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie said in confusion. "I think it's time they met Chief Thunderhooves." Spike said, and Little Strongheart nodded. (凸】♀】♂】←巨人 Plays) Soon they were all around a fire, and listening as Chief Thunderhooves began his tail. "Hmmh. We have a long and winding stampeding trail that we have run upon for many generations. My father stampeded upon these grounds, and his father before him, and his father before him, and his father before him, and his father before him, and–" "Father, I think they get it". Little Strongheart said. "Hmph. It is a sacred tradition to run the path every year. But this year, these... settler ponies, these... Appleloosans!" Chief Thunderhooves soon couldn't finish as he got too angry, so Little Strongheart continued. "They planted apple trees all over it without asking our permission." She explained. "Well that's not very nice. Right, Rainbow Dash?" Asked Pinkie Pie. Rainbow Dash turned away in a huff as Little Strongheart contiuned. "The ponies refused to move their trees, so we are stuck here, and it is not fair!" She said. Spike looked at Rainbow Dash, hoping she would understand. "See Rainbow, they had a good reason to take bloomberg". Spike said. Rainbow Dash still didn't respond. "Please Rainbow Dash, try to understand". Apple Bloom pleaded. All of a sudden Rainbow Dash turned around, a look of furry on her face. "I'll say they had a good reason! C'mon. We have some apple-pickin' Appleloosans to talk to!" She said. "The bufflo, Spike, Pinkie Pie, And Apple Bloom all smiled happy that Rainbow Dash agreed with them. Back in Applelossa the rest of the ponies were getting ready to head out into the bufflo's territorty in order to find Spike, Apple Bloom, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash. "Ow"! Rartiy yelped as Applejack yanked on her haraness. "Gentely Please". Rarity whined. "Sorry, Rarity, but our friends are out there and we have ta' be ready for a long hike into buffalo territory if we're gonna save 'em! Let's go!" Applejack Said. The ponies all started to head out when Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie appeared infront of them. "Hi, guys!" Pinkie Pie greeted. Fluttershy then leaped onto Pinkie Pie, and gave her a big hug. "Pinkie! We're so glad you're safe." She said. All of them expressed their realif that Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash were safe. That was until both Applejack, and Twilight notice something. "Wait a second, where's Apple Bloom"? She asked. "And Spike"? Twilight also asked. "Don't worry, we're fine". Spike's voice called out from the distance. The two of them had taken a little more time to catch up since Spike had to help Apple Bloom do to broken leg which Applejack saw and immediately rushed over. "Oh my gosh Apple Bloom, your leg"! Applejack exclaimed. "It's broken, but I'm okay really Applejack". Apple Bloom reassured her sister. That seemed to calm Applejack down a bit. Meanwhile Twilight went up to Spike, and hugged him "I'm so glad you're okay". She cried in relief. "I'm glad you're okay too". Spike replied. "How did you guys escape the bufflo"? Asked Reiner. "We didn't". Said Pinkie Pie as Little Strongheart came out. The other ponies all gasped, and Applejack glared at the bufflo calf. "You". She snarled. Little Strongheart looked at Applejack in confusion. "Me"? She gulped. "YOU DID THIS TO MY LITTLE SISTER!" Applejack yelled, and with that she charged at Little Strongheart. "APPLEJACK STOP"! Apple Bloom screamed. Seeing the little bufflo in danger, Rainbow Dash quickly stepped infront of Little Strongheart in order to protect her. Applejack continued to charge when she was suddendly stopped. She looked to Twilight, Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt were all holding her back. "Let go of me". She demanded. "Applejack, you need to calm down". Reiner stated. "Don't you tell me to calm down Reiner Braun"! Applejack shouted. "Applejack please stop"! Apple Bloom begged. Hearing her sister's pleads Applejack finally calmed down, but she still glared at Little Strongheart. "Anyways". Rainbow Dash began. "We brought our new pal Little Strongheart here to explain to the Appleloosans why they should move the apple trees off buffalo land." Braeburn smiled, and walked towards Little Strongheart. "That information would be quite help–" However, before Braeburn could finish Applejack intterupted him. "That's weird. 'Cause my cousin Braeburn here wants to explain to the buffalo why they should let the apple trees stay." She said. "That would be a useful thing to–" Little Strongheart tried to say something, but she too was intterupted by Rainbow Dash. "The land is theirs! You planted the trees not knowing that. Honest mistake. Now, you just gotta move 'em, that's all." She stated. "Well... Uh". Braeburn started. "They busted their rumps here! An' now they're supposed ta bust their rumps again, just 'cause some buffalo won't stampede someplace else?" Applejack asked. "Plant the trees somewhere else"! Rainbow Dash demanded. "Where?! It's the only flatland around these parts!" Applejack pointed out. "The bufflo had it first"! Rainbow Dash stated. "The settler ponies need it to live" Applejack argued. "Come on Applejack". Rainbow Dash said. "You're being unresonable". Applejack spoke over her. "I put my hoof down". Rainbow Dash argued. Then the two of them stopped arguing, and turned to Apple Bloom who was being supported by Reiner, and Bertholdt. Applejack, and Rainbow Dash both ran up to the filly. "Apple Bloom"! They both shouted. "You've spent time with the bufflo, you heard their story, so please side with them". Rainbow Dash pleaded. "No Apple Bloom you have to side with the Appleloosens, after all they are our family". Applejack said. Apple Bloom just looked at them. All she could do was stammer. "I I uh". Fourtently for Apple Bloom Twilight quickly stepped infront of her. "Hey, don't you dare drag her into this". She told Applejack, and Rainbow Dash. "But". They both tried to say. "No! You're not going to force her to pick a side". Twilight stated firmly. Applejack, and Rainbow Dash both sighed, and Apple Bloom smiled, happy that Twilight defended her the way she did. Then Reiner spoke up. "Look, both the settlers and the buffalo have good reasons to use this land. There must be something we can do." He stated. "Hey! I have an Idea". Pinkie Pie suddendly said. Everyone just stared at her. Soon, everyone was standing infront of a stage. All of them were curiuos to see what Pinkie Pie was planning. Spike was also on the stage next to a piano. He started playing the piano as the curtian opened to reavel a claim. The claim opened up to reavel Pinkie Pie wearing some kind of strange dress. And of course she started singing. We may be divided But of you all, I beg To remember we're all hoofed At the end of each leg No matter what the issue Come from wherever you please All this fighting gets you nothing But hoof-and-mouth disease Arguing's not the way Hey, come out and play! It's a shiny, new day So, what do you say? You gotta share You gotta care It's the right thing to do You gotta share You gotta care And there'll always be a way through Both our diets, I should mention Are completely vegetarian We all eat hay and oats Why be at each other's throat? You gotta share You gotta care It's the right thing to do And there'll always be a way Throoooough! After the song was over, everyone just stared in silence. Twilight facepalmed, Reiner sighed, and Apple Bloom groaned. Spike was the only one who cheered. "All right, Pinkie Pie! That was fantastic! What a great song! Yeah, right on!" Chief Thunderhooves, and Sheriff Silverstar both shared a look before Chief Thunderhooves spoke up. "It appears that Sheriff Silverstar and I have come to... an agreement." He said. "We have". Sheriff Silverstar replied. Everyone smiled, and gasped. Maybe the song actually worked. But their smiles soon turned to frowns when the Bufflo Chief spoke again. "That was the worst performance we've ever seen." He stated. "Teh... Abso-tively!" The sheriff agreed. "Well, at least things can't get any worse". Bertholdt said trying to lighten the mood. "The time for action... Hmh... is upon us! Our stampede will start at high noon tomorrow. And if the orchard is still there, we'll flatten it... and the whole town!" Chief Thunderhooves said. Everyone gasped in shock after hearing the chief say that. "But Father". Little Strongheart tried to say only to be ignored. Sheriff Silverstar was unfaised by Chief Thunderhooves threat. "An' we Appleloosans say you'd better bring yer best, 'cause we'll be ready and waitin'." He responeded. "But Sheriff". Braeburn tried to say as well, but was also ignored. With that everyone left. "Oh... That wasn't the message of my song at all..." Pinkie Pie told Spike. Back with Reiner, Bertholdt and Apple Bloom, Reiner turned to Bertholdt. "You had to open your mouth, didn't you". He said. "Sorry". Bertholdt simply said. Reiner just sighed, and thought back to Chief Thunderhooves words. If the orchard is still there, we'll flatten it... and the whole town! They reminded him of other words spoken a long time ago. "If you ever distrub our peace, the millons of Colossal Titans inside the walls will flatten the entire world". "I swear to you, the two of you will pay. And it's gonna hurt". Reiner shuddered at the flashbacks of both the threat of the Rumbling, and Eren's words to him and Bertholdt back then. "Reiner, are you okay". Asked Bertholdt". Reiner looked at his friend. "Yeah, don't worry I'm fine". He replied. After a few more minutes of silence Apple Bloom spoke up. "What are we gonna do now"? She asked. "I don't know Apple Bloom, I don't know". Twilight responed. The citzens of Appleloossa were rushing about. They boarded up their windows, and build walls to protect themselves from the bufflo. Meanwhile Applejack, Reiner, Rarity, Fluttershy, Bertholdt, and Twilight could only stand and watch. "I want my kin ta' have what they need to live... but a storm's a-brewin' here. And I don't like the look of it." Applejack said. "We've just got to talk some sense into them before somepony gets hurt." Twilight stated. After she said that Reiner walked up to two ponies. "Listen, maybe if you would just reconsider, we–" He tried to say only to be ignored as the two ponies jumped into their house, and boarded up the windows. The others weren't having much luck either. "About the trees. Now if you could–". Rarity tried to say only to be ignored as well. Next the Applelossians were bucking apple trees, and loading them into barrels. Twilight walked up to one pony called Goldengrape. "If we could just sit down and talk we could–" She tried to say. But Goldengrape only growled in response. That did it. Twilight had tried her best to remain calm, but her anger was building up. The next thing Goldengrape knew, Twilight winded her hoof back, and punched him right into the face. Goldengrape stumbled backwards, and fell into the wagon. Apples flew everywhere, and splattered all over the ground. The Appleloosians looked at the mess, they were very cross now. Twilight then began to advance on Goldengrape, only for Applejack, and Reiner to hold her back. "Woah there Twi, now calm yourself". Applejack said. "Why won't any of you be rational and reasonable"! Twilight shouted. "Shut up"! Goldengrape shouted back. "Because of you we need to get more apples to defend ourselves!" He yelled. Twilight was bout to say something else only for Reiner to stop her. "It's not worth it". He said. Back in the town Braeburn watched as two ponies build another small wall. Sheriff Silverstar meanwhile stopped next to the Mane 8. Applejack took this oppertuinty to try and talk to him. "Sheriff, if we could only–" But he liked everyone else ignored her. "Talk about being unworthy of a badge". Bertholdt said under his breath. "I heard that". Sheriff Silverstar said making Berthodt gasp. Then the sheriff turned to face them. "You better stay outta this, and stop tryin to intervene." He said. Then he looked at Twilight. "And keep her under check, if she has another outburst, the Yous all are gonna be locked up"! Sheriff Silverstar threatened. Twilight, and her friends gasped in shock as Sheriff Silverstar walked away. Then, they head their heads down in defeat. (進撃gt20130218巨人) Back at the bufflo camp, they too were preparing for the upcoming battle. The put war paint on their faces, and sharpend their horns. Spike, Apple Bloom, and Little Strongheart watched from a distants. "Isn't there anyway to stop this"? Spike asked despertley. "Not unless those trees are removed". Little Strongheart replied. Meanwhile Rainbow Dash sat with Chief Thunderhooves as he too was preparing for the events that would take place tommorow. However she could see in his eyes that he was feeling guilty. "Do you really wanna do this". Rainbow Dash asked. Cheif Thunderhooves sighed. "Of course not, but they have taken our land. What would you have me do. Rainbow Dash"? He asked. Rainbow Dash looked at Cheif Thunderhooves for a moment unsure of what to say. "I don't know... but it's never too late to think of something." Rainbow Dash said. "At noon tommorow, it will be too late". Cheif Thunderhooves replied as he walked away. "Father"! Little Strongheart called out only to be ignored. Chief Thunderhooves went to a watering hall, and sat down. He looked up at the stars, and just stared for a bit. "I'd figure you'd come here". Chief Thunderhooves turned to see Little Strongheart, and Apple Bloom standing behind him. "Ah, daughter, and young Apple Bloom what brings you here"? Chief Thunderhooves asked with a smile. "We wanted to see if you were okay". Little Strongheart replied. Chief Thunderhooves smiled. "Don't worry, I'm fine, I'm just conflicted on somethings". He replied. He then turned to Apple Bloom. "I must apologize, you were injured because of us, and I don't know how I can make it up to you". Chief Thunderhooves replied. "You can make it up by getting along with the settlers, and coming up with some sort of compromise". Apple Bloom replied. Chief Thunderhooves sighed. "I fear it's too late for that". He said. "It's never too late for anything, as long as you have hope, and faith, you can over come all obsetcles." Apple Bloom stated. Chief Thunderhooves smiled at the little filly. "Such wise words coming from a child. You are not like the others Apple Bloom, there is kindness in your heart, you care about others. May I ask why though"? Chief Thunderhooves ask. "My daddy told me, "If two or more ponies are fightin, you need to try to understand both sides before choosing one". Apple Bloom replied. "Your father sounds like a wise pony". Said Chief Thunderhooves. "He was". Apple Bloom replied. "That's kind of the reason I was so angry when you took the tree. You see, that tree you guys took was the last tree my parents ever planted". She told them. "What, happend to your parents"? Little Strongheart asked. "I'm sorry if that's personal". She then stated when she saw the look on Apple Bloom's face. "No it's fine". Apple Bloom stated. "However it's not a day I like to remember. It happened five years ago, 845. My parents and I were coming home from my friends house that night. Anyway we came into this dark area of town, and that's when these two bandits came out of nowhere. They tried to grab me, but my parents protected me. However both of them lost their lives that day. I... Uh. Don't remember what happened afterwards, everything went blank. All I remeber is passing out, and waking up in a hospital". Apple Bloom stated. Little Strongheart was shocked. She couldn't believe Apple Bloom went through something like that. Chief Thunderhooves looked up at the sky. "Come, let us head back. Tommorow is a big day." He said. The next moring the citzens Appeloosa were ready, and waiting for the bufflo tribe to appear. The Mane Eight waited as well with extreme worry, and anticpation. Meanwhile Apple Bloom was high up on a hill that looked over the town. "Come on, think! Think, think, think, think, think, think, think!" Rainbow Dash muttered to herself. Then, the clock struck twleve, and the herd appeared over the horizion. Everyone waited. Chief Thunderhooves was about to make to comand, when Little Strongheart put her hoove on his cheek. He took a look, and his daughter, and sighed. Seeing this Rainbow Dash gasped in relief. "He's not gonna do it"! She exclaimed. Everypony sighed in relief, but their relief was soon shattered when they heard the sound of Pinkie Pie singing. what do you say? You gotta share You gotta care It's the right thing to do Chief Thunderhooves heard it too, and his eyes filled with rage. "Pinkie Pie stop"! Reiner called out, but Pinkie didn't stop, and then there was trouble. "CHAAARGE"! Chief Thunderhooves bellowed. The bufflo ran down the mountain, and towards the town. Pinkie Pie relized her mistake. Luckily Bertholdt pulled her out of the way before she could be trampled, but the war had begun. Apple Bloom could only watch as the battle commenced. The bufflo ramed right through the barriers that had been set up. Sheriff Silverstar smirked, as the herd charged at him and the other citzens "Ready... aim... fire!". He ordered. Pies flew everywhere, and hit several bufflo. The bufflo who didn't get hid ramed into haybales, though one hit his head on an anvil. Ponies, and bufflo were fighting all over town. Then one bufflo was hit in the face with pie. He ran into the clock tower. Crash! The clock tower came tumbling town. Then Chief Thunderhooves jumped from behind a some barrels. He locked eyes at Sheriff Silverstar, and began to charge at him. Sheriff Silverstar could see him coming. He prepared to grab another pie, but saw that there none left. So the Sheriff accepted his fate. All of a sudden a pie flew out of nowhere, and hit Chief Thunderhooves in the face. The chief of the bufflo came crashing to the ground. Everyone gasped in shock. Little Strongheart came up to Chief Thunderhooves. "Father". She whispered. "Are you okay"? Chief Thunderhooves didn't reply, and everyone feared the worst. Spike, and a bufflo began to cry. From up the hill Apple Bloom looked down. "Please no". She whimpered. "Father, please get up, please father". But no matter how hard Little Strongheart tried, Chief Thunderhooves wouldn't get up. Little Strongheart began to sob, and burred her face into her father's fur. "Daddy". She cried. All of a sudden, a piece of the pie that struck Chief Thunderhooves slid into his mouth. When he tasted it Chief Thunderhooves shot up, now he was smiling. "Yum! Hey, I've got a much better idea!" He said. Little Strongheart however didn't care, and hugged her father. Later ponies where chopping down some of the trees in order to make a path for the bufflo, as Chief Thunderhooves spoke. "We... will allow the apple orchard to stay in exchange for a share of its fruit, heh... Those... delicious apple pies!" Everyone was happy that they were able to come to an agreement. "Well sheriff, I'm glad we were able to come to a compromise". Chief Thunderhooves said. "Me too Chief. Me too". Sheirff Silverstar agreed. All of a sudden they heard the sound of apiano playing. They looked over and saw Spike back on the stage. "Oh dear god no". Chief Thunderhooves shuddered. "Hold me, I can't bear to hear that pink pony sing another word". Sheriff Silverstar whimpered. "Hey! First of all rude, and second that's not me". Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Well if it's not you, then who is it"? Asked Sheriff Silverstar. "I think I know". Applejack said with a smile. The curtian opened to reveal Apple Bloom sitting on a chair with a stool to help support her leg. She grabbed held the microphone, and began to sing. We're not in love We share no stories Just something in your eyes Don't be afraid The shadows know me Let's leave the world behind Take me through the night Fall into the dark side We don't need the light We'll live on the dark side I see it Let's feel it While we're still young and fearless Let go of the light Fall into the dark side Fall into the dark side Give into the dark side Let go of the light Fall into the dark side Sheriff Silverstar, and Chief Thunderhooves both hugged each other. "That's the most beautiful thing I've ever heard". Said Sheriff Silverstar. "The voice of an angel". Chief Thunderhooves stated in agreement. Beneath the sky As black as diamonds We're running out of time (Time, time) Don't wait for truth To come and blind us Let's just believe their lies Believe it I see it I know that you can feel it No secrets worth keeping So fool me like I'm dreaming Take me through the night Fall into the dark side We don't need the light We'll live on the dark side I see it Let's feel it While we're still young and fearless Let go of the light Fall into the dark side Fall into the dark side Give into the dark side Let go of the light Fall into the dark side Applejack smiled as Bloomberg was finally planted where he belonged. "Bloomberg, this is yer special day. Mama's so proud of you!" Twilight meanwhile resited her letter to Princess Celestia. Dear Princess Celestia, Friendship is a wondrous and powerful thing. Even the worst of enemies can become friends. You need understanding and compromise. You've got to share. You've got to care. "Hey that's what I said". Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt just laughed as Apple Bloom kept singing. Take me through the night Fall into the dark side We don't need the light We'll live on the dark side I see it Let's feel it While we're still young and fearless Let go of the light Fall into the dark side Preview A routine camping trip turns into a race aganist time when the Mane Eight, Spike, and Cutie Mark Crusaders encounter bandits, who steal their supplies, and take one of their own hostage. To make matters worse Applejack and Rainbow Dash can't seem to stop arguing. Will Twilight, and the other be able to get their supplies back, and more importantliy rescue their kidnapped friend. Next Episode. Distress. Author's Note Characters in order of Apperance Applejack Rarity Apple Bloom Bright Macintosh (Flashback) Pear Butter (Flashback) Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Twilight Sparkle Rainbow Dash Flutteshy Pinkie Pie Spike Little Strongheart Chief Thunderhooves Braeburn Goldengrape Daisy Black Stone Noteworthy Morton Saltworthy Ol' Salt Apple Fritter Apple Bumpkin Red Gala Red Delicious Golden Delicious Caramel Apple Apple Strudel Apple Tart Baked Apples Apple Brioche Apple Cinnamon Crisp Sheriff Silverstar Berry Punch Shoeshine Sweetie Drops Golden Harvest Karl Fritz (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Episode 29: Distress: Gala arc Part 22How could this have happened. Everything was going so well too. Applejack, and Twilight stared daggers at the bandit who had Apple Bloom in his grasp, the knife aimed at her neck. Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity, Spike, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Reiner, and Bertholdt all watched. Waiting, for what would happen next. Several Hours Eariler It was a lovely day in ponyville as Twilight Sparkle raced through the town. Reiner, and Bertholdt close behind her. "Come on you guys, I wanna tell all our friends about this as soon as possible". Twilight said. "Twilight please slow down, it's still very early, you'll have plenty of time". Reiner stated. Twilight looked back at him, and slowed down. "I know that, but still I really want to tell our friends about this campsite. I mean look at it, it has everything. A lake, a waterfall, and oooh I'm just so excited". Twilight squeeled. "Well look, like I said it's still early, so some of are friends, namely Rainbow Dash are probably still asleep. So how about this, who did you want to invite"? Reiner asked. "You, Bertholdt, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Spike, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Applejack, and Apple Bloom". Twilight stated. "Um Twilight, did you forget Apple Bloom has a broken leg"? Bertholdt asked. "Don't worry Bertholdt, I'm sure it will be fine, and besides I think Apple Bloom would appriecate getting out of the house" Twilight replied. Reiner sighed. "Okay then how bout this, when it gets a little later in the day we each split up and tell our friends about this camping trip". He said. Twilight nodded in agreement. Later that day, the three of them each split off to tell their friends about the camping trip. Twilight had to tell Rarity, Sweetie Belle, and Pinkie Pie about the camping trip. She went to Pinkie Pie first. The pink earth pony instantly agreed to the idea, and began to get ready. Rarity was reluctant at first, but ulitmatley agreed after seeing Sweetie Belle's excited face. Bertholdt was tasked with telling Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo. First he told Scootaloo, and had no problems convicing her to come, especially after saying that Rainbow Dash would be there. Speaking of Rainbow Dash, she too agreed to come along. Now it was Reiner's job tell Fluttershy, Applejack, and Apple Bloom. Fluttershy immeditly said yes. Which Reiner of course knew she would. "Okay the hard part". Reiner thought to himself. Reiner walked up to the front door of Applejack's house, and knocked. After a few minutes Applejack opened up, and smiled when she saw him. "Howday Reiner, what brings you here today"? Applejack asked. "Hello Applejack, hey um listen there's something I need to ask you". Reiner said. "Well what is it"? Applejack asked. Reiner sighed. "Twilight found this hiking trail near here that leads to a very nice camping area, and she wants all of us to do it. By all of us she means Herself, me, Bertholdt, Rarity, Sweeite Belle, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Fluttershy, you, and Apple Bloom." Applejack stared at Reiner, and he continued. "I know Apple Bloom's leg, and all, but Twilight thinks Apple Bloom needs to get out of the house, and not sit inside all day, and I mean come on it is a nice day after all". Reiner said with a nervous chuckle. Applejack stood in silence for a few minutes. She looked up at the sky, and then back at Apple Bloom. She was on the couch sleeping with a pair of crutches next to her, and a new cast on her leg. Applejack smiled, and turned back to Reiner. "You know what, you're right Apple Bloom does need to get out of the house". Applejack said. "So that mean's you'll come". Reiner asked. "You betcha, as long as everypony can help Apple Bloom that is". Applejack stated. Reiner smiled, and nodded his head. Later the group met up at the Golden Oak Library to discuss how the hike was going to go. "I'm so glad you all agreed to come along on this adventure. Now I'm going to explain how things are going to go during that trip". Twilight said with excitment. Everypony smiled, and waited as the listen to Twilight. Once she was done explaing Rainbow Dash raised her hoof. "This sounds great and all Twilight, but if we want to get there quick, then don't you think there's somepony who might slow us down"? Rainbow Dash asked. Now Rainbow Dash didn't look at anyone in paticular, but everyone new she was talking about Apple Bloom. The little filly also knew, and felt tears well up into her eyes. Applejack wasn't too happy with Rainbow Dash for making her little sister cry. "Ya'll wanna repeat that missy"? Applejack warned. "I'm just saying we shouldn't have a liabilty come with us on this trip if we want it to be fun." Rainbow Dash replied. That made Applejack really angry, and she began to advance towards Rainbow Dash who in turn got into a fighting stance. Twilight quickly got in between them while the other comforted Apple Bloom who was now silently crying. "Girls please don't fight. This is suppose to be something all of us can do, and Rainbow calling Apple Bloom a liabilty? How could you say something like that to her"? Twilight demanded. Rainbow Dash just sighed, and looked at Apple Bloom. "Sorry". She simply said. Apple Bloom looked up, and nodded. "It's okay." But maybe I should stay here. I don't wanna be a liabilty." "Hey hey hey. You're not a liabilty. Don't think for a second that just because you have a broken leg means anyting". Reiner stated. "All of us will help you on this trip". Bertholdt replied. This made Apple Bloom feel better. Rainbow Dash just rolled her eyes, as Twilight spoke up. "Alright everypony. Lets go on an adventure"! She exclaimed excitedly "Yeah"! Everyone cheered. Soon they were all off on their adventure. Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie stayed back to assit Apple Bloom. About twenty minutes into their walk the gang game to a fork in the road. Twilight and Reiner looked at the map. "Both paths will lead to our desination, however the left one is shorter then the right one". Twilight stated. "Well then let's take the left past if we want to get there quick". Rainbow Dash said as she rushed forward only for Reiner to stop her". "Hold on Rainbow". He stated. "The left path is shorter but has a punch of hills we need to climb over". "That's right, we need to take the long way for Apple Bloom". Twilight replied. Everyone nodded in agreement, but Rainbow Dash gronaed in frustration. "Oh quit yer whinning Dash". Applejack stated. "We wouldn't be having any problems if she had just stayed home"! Rainbow Dash said pointing at Apple Bloom. "Rainbow Dash leave her alone"! Fluttershy scolded softly but firmly. "Yeah". replied Pinkie Pie. "It's not her fault she has a broken leg"! "Whatever'! Rainbow Dash stated as she continued on her way down the long path. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo both put comforting hooves on Apple Bloom's shoulders as tears welled up in the little filles eyes, and she began to softly sob. Both Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo glared at Rainbow Dash, who just rolled her eyes, and continued forward. Twilight just sighed, before turning to Apple Bloom. "Are you okay"? She asked. Apple Bloom just nodded, and Twilight gave her a smile reassuring smile. "Alright let's get a move on we wanna get to are destention before sunset". Reiner stated. The group went on down the path with Pinkie, and Fluttershy helping Apple Bloom. As they walked down, they couldn't help but admire the beautiful scenerary around them. "I can't believe how beautiful this forest is". Sweetie Belle stated. "I know, it's simply breathtaking". Rarity replied. "So lovely" Said Fluttershy. "It's nice to just get out, and enjoy nature every once and a while". Bertholdt acknowledged. Rainbow Dash, and Applejack however were not to into the scenerio around them, but instead were glaring at each other. Applejack knew Rainbow Dash was annoyed that they had to move slowly for Apple Bloom, but Applejack couldn't care less. She didn't want to leave her sister cooped up in a house, and this was actually good for her anyways. Rainbow Dash then spoke. "You know if we didn't have the EXTRA WEIGHT! We'd probably be there by now". She made sure to say that last part out loud. Everyone tried to ignore her. Pinkie Pie, put her hooves over Apple Bloom's ears so she wouldn't have to hear what was being said. Applejack however was none too please with how Rainbow Dash was behaving. "You take that back right now missy"! She demanded. "I will not, I'm only speaking the truth, but you are just too stubborn to realize that"! Rainbow Dash retorted "I ain't the one who's bein stubborn"! Applejack argued back. "Howday ya'll I'm Applejack, and I just love Apples"! Rainbow Dash mocked. This made Applejack furious. "Oh yeah?! Well I'm Rainbow Dash, and I wanna be a wonderbolt, but I know that will never happen cause I'm too darn lazy to ever do what I'm told. Rainbow Dash gasped. "How dare you"! She exclaimed. "What? I'm only speaking the truth". Applejack stated using Rainbow Dash's own words aganist her. That sent Rainbow Dash over the edge, and she lunged at Applejack. Immedidtly, Rarity, Reiner, and Bertholdt jumped in between them in an attempt to deescalte the situation. "Come on you two, this is no way to behave" Rarity said, but Applejack, and Rainbow Dash were too busy shouting at each other. Meanwhile everyone else just stood back. "This, is not going well". Sweetie Belle stated. "I know, I was hoping to have some fun with Rainbow Dash, but I honestly don't like the way she's acting". Scootaloo Replied. "This isn't going the way I hoped it would". Twilight muttered. She then turned to the little filly who was being the most effected by all this. "Apple Bloom I'm so sorry you have the hear all this". Twilight said as she hugged the little earth pony filly. Apple Bloom smiled, and gentely hugged Twilight back. "It's okay". She whispered. Finally, Rarity, Reiner, and Bertholdt manged to calm Applejack and Rainbow Dash down. "Now what do the two of you say to each other"? Reiner demanded. "Sorry". They both said meekley. "Good, now let's go". Reiner said. The group continued moving all while Applejack, and Rainbow Dash kept glaring at each other. Currently Publicly Available Information The Wasteland Navigation Exercise. A field exercise in which the cadets are split into two detachments and make a round trip through a wasteland. Both groups depart at the same hour and travel along two different routes, retrieve the planted object, then return to base. The target of this exercise is to find out how well one can stay alert in a non-critical situation. The group continued to walk on. Sweetie Belle took some pictures of the nature with the camera she brought. She smiled at how nice they came out. "Taking some pictures?" Asked Bertholdt. Sweetie Belle nodded. "I wanna remember all the things we saw today". She told him "Who knows if we'll ever have a chance like this again". Bertholdt smiled. All of a sudden Spike noticed something. "Hey guys look at this". He called out. The others came up to him, and noticed some bags on the ground. "Seems like there are other hikers around". Twilight stated. "Yeah, but look there". Spike said pointing. The others then noticed a large machete sticking out of one of the bags. "Why would hikers need a machete"? Asked Scootaloo. "Maybe to cut through leaves, and bushed"? Sweetie Belle suggested though she was unsure of herself. "That's not possible, there aren't any bushes on this path". Apple Bloom stated "They could have been cut up". Sweetie Belle replied. "If that were the case, the we would have seen cut up leaves on the ground". Reiner stated. The group stared for a while, before Fluttershy spoke up. "Oh my, I have a bad feeling about this". She gulped. Twilight nodded. "Yeah me too, so let's get out of here before whoever owns those supplies comes back. Everypony agreed, and quickly moved away from the bags, unaware that they were being watched. As they continued on the group came across a rope bridge, that looked pretty unstable. Twilight, and Reiner both knew they all couldn't cross at the same time. "This bridge won't be able to support us if we all cross at the same time". Twilight stated. "So what do we do"? Asked Bertholdt. "Simple we each cross one at a time". Reiner replied. Twilight nodded. "Right, Apple Bloom, and Spike first". She said. "Woah hold on, why them first"? Rainbow Dash asked. "Because Apple Bloom's going to need help getting across the bridge". Twilight told Rainbow Dash. She then turned to Spike. "Be sure to help her get across". She told him. "Of course". Spike said. Spike and Apple Bloom then walked over to the bridge. As they walked past Rainbow Dash, Apple Bloom noticed she was glaring at her. "Ignore her". Spike said as the two made it the bridge. "You ready"? He asked. Apple Bloom nodded, and the two slowly, and carefully made their way across the bridge. It did wobble a bit causing Apple Bloom to flinch, but other then that the two of them made it across safely. Soon the others came as well. Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, Bertholdt, and Reiner. Rainbow Dash flew across. As soon as they were across the bridge Twilight looked at the map one more time. Apple Bloom walked up to her. "Where now"? She asked "See up there? There's another fork in the road. Unfourntenly unlike the last one the map doesn't show what path which be eaiser for you". Twilight stated. "So, what do we do"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Reiner, and I are gonna check both paths, and see which one is better. Would you mind holding onto the map for me"? Twilight then asked. Apple Bloom beamed and nodded her head. Twilight, and Reiner then walked up the paths. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo walked up to Apple Bloom "Isn't this wonderful, it's so nice to go on an adventure like this". Sweetie Belle stated. "It would be even better if I didn't have this broken leg, and wasn't slowing us down". Apple Bloom said sadly. "Hey, don't listen to anything Rainbow Dash is saying. It's not your fault you're injured". Scootaloo said. Apple Bloom still didn't feel very good about herself. "Hey think about it though, we might get hiking cutie marks". Scootloo then stated. Sweetie Belle gasped. "Yes that would be amazing". She exclaimed. "Cutie Mark Crusader Hikers"! Apple Bloom cheered "YAY"! They all cheered. Applejack, and Rarity both smiled at the children as they cheered. "Sure is nice seein em smile like that". Applejack said. "Yes, especially Apple Bloom with after everything that's happened today". Rarity replied. "I couldn't agree more". Stated Applejack. However the excitment soon went downhil. All of a sudden, a random bird flew out of a bush near Apple Bloom, causing the young filly to yelp in suprise. However the worse was yet the come. Apple Bloom had been so startled that she dropped the map. "Oh no"! Apple Bloom Yelped as she tried to get the map. The others noticed what was happening, and tried to get the map too, but it was no use. The map flew off the cliff, and fell into the river bellow completly ruined. Rainbow Dash turned to Apple Bloom, her eyes full of rage. "Look what you've done"! She shouted causing Apple Bloom to yelp. "Rainbow Dash"! Spike began, but Rainbow Dash wasn't listening as she advanced towards Apple Bloom. The filly backed away trembling in fear. She then tripped over a stone and hit her broken leg causing her to cry out in pain, but Rainbow Dash didn't stop. "First you slow us down, and now you've gotten us lost! I knew Twilight shouldn't have brought you along, you're nothing but liablity, and a nuscinces"! Rainbdow Dash yelled. Apple Bloom's eyes filled with tears, her lips began to quiver. "I I I'm s s sorry"! She began sobbing. Rainbow Dash however just continued to grill in to Apple Bloom. "Miss Rainbow Dash stop yelling at her this instant"! Rarity scolded. "I'm only speaking the truth". Rainbow Dash stated. "The truth? All you'ved done is make my little sister feel bad about herself"! Applejack replied. As Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Applejack argued, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Bertholdt, Spike, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all began to comfort Apple Bloom just as Twilight and Reiner returned. "What happened"?! Reiner demanded. "Why is Apple Bloom crying"!? Twilight asked in a concerned voice. "She dropped the map in to the river, and now we don't know where to go"! Rainbow Dash complained. "It was an accident, she didn't mean to do it". Fluttershy stated. "SHE SHOULDN'T EVEN BE ON THIS TRIP IN THE FIRST PLACE, ALL SHE'S DOING IS SLOWING US DOWN"! Rainbow Dash stated. "NO SHE HASN'T! AT NO POINT DID WE EVER HAVE TO STOP AND WAIT FOR HER! YOU RAINBOW DASH ARE BEING NOTHIN BUT A DAMN HIPPOCRYTE"! Applejack yelled. Soon the two of them were in a screaming match with each other. Rarity, Spike, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle tried to stop them, while Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, Pinkie, and Fluttershy stayed with Apple Bloom who was now coverng her ears. "Apple Bloom are you okay"? Bertholdt asked with conceren in his voice. Apple Bloom only grimced in response. "Nggh". She groaned. "Apple Bloom, what's wrong"? Asked Twilight as she put her hooves around the little filly's shoulder's. "Make them stop". Apple Bloom grimced. The others looked at each other, and then Reiner stood up. "ENOUGH"! He shouted with such authority it made everyone jump. "Rainbow Dash you have no right to be treating Apple Bloom the way you are". "But"! Rainbow Dash began. "NO"! Reiner intterupted. "You have been nothing but cruel, and unfair to her, nothing has slowed us down, or anything". Rainbow Dash just stared at Reiner, not saying anything so Reiner contiuned. "You want to be a wonderbolt right? Well they won't accept someone who yells at an injured child". Reiner stated. Rainbow Dash just sighed. "Sorry". She grunted. "It's okay". Apple Bloom stated, but she knew that Rainbow Dash didn't actually mean it. Then Spike spoke up. "But what are we going to do without the map"? He asked. "Don't worry, we don't need it anyways"? Twilight told him. "How come"? Asked Sweetie Belle. "Because all we need to do is take the left path, and we'll be there". Reiner stated. That made everypony exicted. "Well what are we waiting for, let's go"! Apple Bloom exclaimed happily. With that the gang all followed Twilight, and Reiner up the path. It took about ten minutes to get up the hill, but finally they made it, and looked at the amazing view ahead of them. "What did I tell you guys, isn't this amazing"? Twilight asked excitedly. "I'll say, this place is simply breathtaking". Rarity replied. "I'm so glad of all us get to experiance something like this". Scootaloo stated as they all looked around. There were trees, a large field down the hill, a crystal blue lake with a waterfall, and a rainbow. It was magnificent. "Come on girls let's go have fun"! Pinkie Pie said to the CMCs as she put Apple Bloom onto her back and ran down the hill, with Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle following. Soon they were all playing in the site, and having a great time. Pinkie Pie, and The Crusaders swam in the lake, Fluttershy froliced in the field of Flowers. Twilight, and Spike looked up at the Rainbow, Reiner, and Bertholdt spared with each other, and Sweetie Belle in addtion to swimming also took severeal pictures with her camera. However Applejack, and Rainbow Dash didn't play, and were both just glaring at each other. Fluttershy noticed this, and came up to the two of them. "Are you two alright"? She asked. Applejack was about to answer, when Sweetie Belle came up to them. "Hey, you all gotta see, what Apple Bloom, and Pinkie Pie found". She told them. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Twilight, Fluttershy, Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt all followed Sweeite Belle behind the waterfall where Pinkie Pie, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo were waiting. "You wanted to show us a cave"? Rainbow Dash asked unimpressed. "Not the cave it self, it's what's on the otherside". Pinkie Pie stated as she, and the crusaders led the others down the end of the cave. Once on the other side, the others gasped in shocked, there was a hotsprings. "How did you find this, it was nowhere on the map". Twilight pointed out. "As we were swimming in the lake, I just happend to look behind the waterfall, and a saw a quick glimpse of something I didn't know what it was". Apple Bloom exclaimed. "So Apple Bloom asked me to take her over there, and check it out. That's when we discovered the cave, and our curiosty got the better of us so we went through it, and found the hot springs". Pinkie Pie stated. "So of course we told Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo". Apple Bloom continued. "And then I told all of you". Said Sweetie Belle. The others stared for a while, before all smiling. Soon they were all relaxing in the hotsprings, and what was even better is that there were four different areas. One for The mares, one for the Crusaders, one for Spike, and one for Reiner and Bertholdt. With Twilight and the others they sat, in their pool as Rarity spoke. "It is so lovely that you and the crusaders discovered this Pinkie Pie". She complemented. "Well it was mainly Apple Bloom who found it". Pinkie Pie replied. Each of the girls all nodded in agreement except Rainbow Dash who just groaned. "She's lucky we made here at all after she lost the map". She grumble. "Oh for the love of knock it off RD, it was a mistake, and you know it." Applejack stated. "Yeah, and you know what else was a mistake, bringing a damn cripple on this hike who's gonna do nothing but ruin our fun"! Rainbow Dash retorted. She said this in a whisperer, but Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt all heard her. Apple Bloom began to cry while Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo comforted her, while Reiner, and Bertholdt had to hold Spike back since he wanted to give Rainbow Dash a peace of his mind. Later that night they were all gather around a campfire, though tenseions were high, with Applejack, and Rainbow Dash glaring at each other, and Apple Bloom feeling guilty about loosing the map. After a few minutes of silence Twilight spoke up. "Um, I know things were a little frustrated, but at least we all made it her, and we were all able to have fun". She said. Reiner nodded in agreement. "That's right, come on everyone let's not dwell on the negetive stuff, and focus on what a great time we had". He said this while looking at Applejack, and Rainbow Dash. Seeing Reiner look at them Applejack just smirked at Rainbow Dash. "You are absouletly right Mr. Braun, we did have a great time today, and absoultely nothing, nor did anypony ruin it". She said while eyeing Rainbow Dash, who noticed the way Applejack, and Everyone was looking at her. "What"?! She asked in a rather annoyed tone. To which Applejack smirked again. "Admit it, you were wrong about Apple Bloom ruining this hike because of her broken leg". She stated. "Applejack's right Rainbow Dash, Apple Bloom's injuried hasn't caused any major issues at all". Bertholdt replied. Everyone nodded in agreement, but Rainbow Dash just rolled her eyes. "Well she lost the map, and how are we going to go home without it"! Rainbow Dash retorted. "Simple, by just going back the way we came, we went in a staright line". Sweetie Belle replied. "Whatever". Rainbow Dash said. That's when Applejack spoke up. "You know I've had it up to here with you treating my little sis like garbage! You are almost a grown adult, and you should not be treating a child they way you have been treating Apple Bloom". "Oh yeah, well if you were smart you would have known not to bring her on this hike"! Rainbow Dash argued back. Soon enough they were again shouting at each other when all of a sudden a voice screamed "STOP"! Everyone looked to see Apple Bloom panting heavily with tears streaming down her face. "I'm tired of you two arguing over me, I can't help that I have a broken leg, but I'm not going to let that stop me. I'm glad to be on this trip with all of you" She stated before turning to Applejack and Rainbow Dash. "However if anyone is runing this trip it's you two with your constant arguing, and bickering." Apple Bloom then turned to Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "Can you two help me down to the lake, I need some time alone". She told them. "Of course". Sweetie Belle said as she and Scootaloo helped Apple Bloom walk over to the lake. Everyone else just watched them go. Applejack didn't say anything. She just knew that Apple Bloom was right. For a while no pony said anything, utnil Twilight Spoke up. "It's late, let's get some sleep". She said. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo helped Apple Bloom down to the lake, once there they sat her down by the edge of the water. "Thanks you two". Apple Bloom stated. "No problem". Replied Scootaloo. "Do you want us to stay with you"? Asked Sweetie Belle. "No thanks, I just want to be alone right now". Apple Bloom answered. "Oh, okay well yell if you need anything". Sweetie Belle said as she and Scootaloo headed back to the others. "Today was a pretty fun day, though Rainbow Dash was being such a big meanie to Apple Bloom". Sweetie Belle grumbled. To her suprise Scootaloo nodded in agreement. "Yeah I can't believe Rainbow Dash would say all those horrible things to her". Scootaloo stated. "Wow Scootaloo I'm actually surpised that you aren't defending Rainbow Dash". Sweetie Belle stated. Scootaloo looked at Sweetie Belle in confusion. "Why would you say that"? She asked. "Because you look up to Rainbow Dash, and think everything she does is awesome". Sweetie Belle replied. "Yes, while I may be Rainbow Dash's biggest Fan". Scootaloo began. "Self proclaimed". Sweetie Belle intterupted while smirking. "Anyways, I may have looked up to Rainbow Dash, but I will not support anyone who is mean to a pony who is sick, and or injured, and honestley with the way Rainbow Dash has been treating Apple Bloom I don't even think I want to be like her anymore". Scootaloo stated. Sweetie Belle stared as Scootaloo walked back to the others. "I hope Rainbow Dash realizes her mistake, or she's going to loose all of her friends". Sweetie Belle mummbled to herself. Apple Bloom sat by the lake, fourtenlty Sweetie Belle, and Scootloo made sure to put her in a postion where she would be comfortble. She then thought back to what Rainbow Dash had said in the hot springs "You Know What else was a mistkae? Bringing a damn cripple on this hike who's gonna do nothing but ruin our fun"! Apple Bloom stared at reflection in the lake, she wondered if Rainbow Dash was right, was it a mistake coming with everyone. "I did loose the map, even if we did make it here in once peace". Apple Bloom said to herself. As she pondered this a ferret came out of the bushes and up to her. Apple Bloom gave it a small smile. "Hey there little guy". Apple Bloom said as she gave the ferret a few small pets. The ferret rubbed up against Apple Bloom making the little filly giggle. It was like it knew something was bothering her, and it was trying to make her feel better. Apple Bloom couldn't help but smile as she remembered the words Reiner told her the day of Diamond Tiara's cute-ceninara. You already have a family who loves you, and friends throughout Ponyville, the opinion of two little fillies isn't going to matter to anyone, and you know that". Apple Bloom smiled. Reiner was right, and she didn't regret coming on this trip. Apple Bloom was about to call out for help back to the others. She knew it would annoy Rainbow Dash who was most likely asleep, but Apple Bloom didn't care anymore. However before she could call out she was interrupted by some rustling in the bushes. on the other side of the lake. The sound caused the ferret to spring up and snarl. This confused Apple Bloom greatly, as the ferret all of a sudden ran off. Apple Bloom only stared off in the distance, when all of a sudden a figure appeared behind her. Twilight was awoken by the sound of a shirl scream. She looked up to see a masked stalion looming over her holding the same machete they had discovered eariler. "Don't move". He said in a deep voice. Twilight's eyes darted around. She saw that a bunch of masked stalions were standing over her friends. All of them had looks of fear in their eyes, as the one who stood over Twilight spoke again (VNPF2013 Plays) Gather their supplies he said. His henchmen did what he asked, and started to gather all the supplies the group had brought with them as they could only watch. "Why are you doing this"? Twilight asked. "You ponies look like you have stuff that others would be willing to pay a heffty price for, and beisdes it's not like you need them anyways". The lead bandit replied as the group contiuned to stay in place. All of a sudden, Twilight shot up, and grabbed the Machette the lead bandit was holding. "Everyone, now"! She commanded as she and the lead bandit began to struggle. However no one did anything. "Twilight"! Spike shouted only to have another knife pointed at him. Rainbow Dash tried to fly away, but stopped in her tracks when the machette the lead bandit was holding flew out of his hooves, and wizzed past Rainbow Dash's head. Rainbow Dash just stood still in shock, as the lead bandit brought up his free hoof, and socked Twilight in the face sending her to the ground. "You better think twice before you move". He stated. Present Time Twilight, and the others could only watch as the bandits took all their supplies. However to make matters worse, they we're also taking Apple Bloom hostage as well. He front and back legs were tied, and her mouth was gagged so she couldn't scream. The lead bandit then spoke again. "We're not going to kill her, and we will release at one point, but if you follow us she's dead". He warned as he got into the waggon they had brought with them and sped off. "Everyone.... If we had attacked as a team, then we could have done something". Twilight stated. The others just looked at her before Rainbow Dash spoke up. "That's just your opinion. I think you're wrong. Infact you're reckless behavoir put us all in danger". She replied. "We should get go back to Ponyville, this trip is over". Applejack said. "You're right"Spike replied. Twilight however didn't like that response. (Call your Name Plays) "Are we just going to abandon Apple Bloom"?! She asked, disgusted that Applejack would even suspect that. "Of course not, I want to save my little sister, but we don't even know where they went. We need to go to the proper authorites before we do anything". Applejack told Twilight, but Twilight wasn't having any of it. "By the time we get help, it will probably be too late"! She exclaimed. When no one replied she continued. "I'm going to save Apple Bloom, even if I have to do it alone"! Twilight told them through tears as she began to walk off. "Twilight"! Spike called out only for Rainbow Dash to go after her. "Wait"! Rainbow Dash called as she caught up to Twilight and grabbed her. "How do you even expect to find them". She aksed. "Why does it matter to you"?! Twilight stated angrily. "It does matter. I'm going with you"! Rainbow Dash replied. Twilight was shocked to hear Rainbow Dash say that. Rainbow Dash could see that so she continued. "I've been unfairly cruel to Apple Bloom throughout this entire trip, I owe her a big apology, and I also want some payback for what those bandits did. As Rainbow Dash say this, the others came down all willing to join them on this rescue mission, Applejack putting her hoof on Rainbow Dash's shoulder. "I know Apple Bloom will forgive you RD, and I'm glad you're seeing the error of your ways". She said. Rainbow Dash smiled. "Alright, let's go save Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo you two stay here". Twilight said. "No way"! Sweetie Belle retorted. "Huh"? Twilight said in confusion. "Apple Bloom's our friend, and there's no way we're going to sit back when she's in danger"! Scootaloo stated. The others knew that Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo weren't going to back down, so they all just sighed. "Alright, then lets go"! Twilight replied. "Wait, how are we going to find them"? Fluttershy asked. "I've got an idea". Reiner answered. "What is it"? Asked Spike. "A couple months ago back when Bertholdt and I were training to be soliders in our hometown, we had to do a training excerise which involed going out into the woods. We we're split into two groups, and during the excerise group A had to deal with bandits who had kidnapped one of our friends. Bertholdt and I weren't part of the group that delt with the bandits, but group A told us that they manged to rescue our friend by going up to higher ground like trees, and mountaints". Reiner replied. "Going up. That's a great idea Reiner"! Twilight stated. So the group made their way up a nearby mountain to see if they could spot the kidnappers, and sure enough they were. Twilight looked through the telescope she had brought with them, and saw them at a different campsite. They were leading Apple Bloom towards another wagon with the supplies. "At least they have the dignently to support Apple Bloom with her leg". Twilight mutterted to herself. "So what do we do know"? Asked Scootaloo. "I have an idea". Fluttershy replied. Everyone looked at her in shock, but Fluttershy told them her plan anyways. "There are two different paths those guys can take. The right path is the easier one, as it has more room, especisaly for those big wagons. If they get there it'll be too late, however luckly for us there's they have to go through the forest to get to it". Fluttershy told them. "So what are you suggesting darling"? Rarity asked. "Simple, as long as we can block their path with the trees, and then ambush them we should be good". Fluttershy replied. "Hold on Flutters how is everypony going to get up to the trees, I mean You, Bertholdt, and I can fly, but what about the others"? Rainbow Dash asked. That's when both Applejack, and Pinkie Pie smirked. "You just leave that to us". Pinkie Pie stated. (EMA Plays) Down with the bandits, they had tied Apple Bloom up aganist the top of the Wagon, and began to drive off. However they were unawre that Twilight, and her friends we're waiting from the trees ahead. Once the wagon made it into the forest, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Spike, and Rarity used Pinkie Pie's grapple hook to swing from one tree to the next. Meanwhile, Applejack, Reiner, and Bertholdt were waiting behind some rocks while holding the lasso Applejack brought. "How will we know which wagon has Apple Bloom in it"? Bertholdt asked. "Will hear the sound of clanging since it will also have the stuff in it to". Reiner answered. The three of them waited. Four wagons pasted, finally the fifth one made the clanging sound they we're waiting for. "NOW"! Applejack shouted as she Reiner, and Bertholdt pulled the rope, and brought the tree down. Unfouretnely the ponies pulling the wagon saw the tree coming and quickly made it under the tree before it blocked their path. "Damnit"! Cursed Applejack as the wagon began getting away. However unknown to the bandits in the trees waiting were Twilight Sparkle, and Rainbow Dash. As soon as the Wagon was near them, they leaped in from the trees. "What the! Who are". The stalion didn't have time to finish his sentence before he was socked in the face by Twilight. He was knocked out as the other bandit began to struggle with her. As Twilight fought with the other bandits Rainbow Dash worked on freeing Apple Bloom All of a sudden Apple Bloom screamed. "LOOK OUT"! Rainbow Dash turned just in time to see one of the bandits rushing at her with a large knife. However before it could strike Rainbow Dash Reiner appeared, and blocked it with his foreleg. The knife struck him creating a deep cut as blood started to leak out of the wound. "Reiner"! Twilight screamed. "It's okay, I'll handle these guys, just get Apple Bloom, and get as far away as possible"! Reiner demanded. "But Reiner"! Rainbow Dash argued. "Don't argue with me, just do what I say"! He said sternly. Twilight, and Rainbow Dash reluctantly did as they were told, and began to work on freeing Apple Bloom. Finally, the manged to untire, and lept out of the wagon. Once they were save Twilight turned to see Reiner still on the wagon fighting the bandits. "Reiner"! Twilight yelled, and began to chase after the wagon only to be stopped by Bertholdt. "Bertholdt what are you doing"?! Twilight asked in confusion. "Don't worry. Reiner can handle himself". Bertholdt reassured Twilight. Twilight looked back as the wagon disappeared into the woods before sighing, and rushing over to check on Apple Bloom. Back with the bandits the leader was wondering what all the noise was. "What is happening back there"?! He demanded. "Those ponies we robbed attacked us, and rescued the girl! Now one of them is on the last wagon, and is attacking our crew". One of the henchmen replied. The leader growled in response. "Stop abrubtly, all the other wagons will stop too. That should get whoever the pony is off balance enoguh for someone to kill him. The driver of the head wagon did as he was told, and soon all the other wagons did so as well. When the last one stopped Reiner, who had been beating up the other bandits was knocked down. This allowed one of the bandits to stab Reiner right in the chest with a large hunting knife. "ARGH"! Reiner growled. The pony smirked at Reiner. "Not so tough now are you. Now you will pay for what you've done". The Bandit said. He went to finish Reiner off when Reiner grabbed the knife from the bandit, and tossed it out of the wagon. "You have know idea who you're messing with". Reiner stated as sparks of light began to appear across his body as the bandits looked on in confusion. Outside the other bandits waited for their orders when they were all suddendly suprised by the sound of an explosion. They all turned to see that the last wagon had been destroyed, all of the ponies in it dead, and standing in front of them all was the Armored Titan. "What the hell is that thing"?! One of the bandits asked in shock before he was instantly stepped on by Reiner. The Armored Titan then charged forward as the bandits tried to run away, however Reiner was able to run pass them. He then slammed into the side of a mountain the force of the impact causing a huge rock slide the crushed, and killed all the remaing bandits. Once they were all dead Reiner left the nape of the Armored Titan, covered himself in a bunch of cuts, and bruises, and made his way away from the carnage. It took Reiner about an hour to return back to the others. By the time he got there several police ponies along with Mayor Mare, and even Princess Celestia were all there as well. Twilight was talking with Celestia when she spoted Reiner walking over to them. "Reiner"! She ran over, and gave him a hug. "Are you okay". "I'm fine". Reiner reassured Twilight just as Mayor Mare and Princess Celestia came up to them. "Mr. Braun, can you please tell us where the bandits are now"? Mayor Mare asked. Reiner sighed, "All of them are Dead". He replied. Twilight gasped in shock, but Mayor Mare. and Princess Celestia remained unfased. "Can you tell us how they died"? Asked Princess Celestia. "As we were going past a large mountain there was a rockslide, and they all got crushed. I survived because I jumped out of the wagon I was in". Reiner answered. Princess Celestia nodded her head. "Very well". She said. "We will send a team to collect their bodies". She, and Mayor Mare then walked away. "How's Apple Bloom"? Reiner asked. "She's fine, a little shaken up, but other then that she's going to be okay". Twilight said. She then walked away just as Bertholdt came up to Reiner. "You used your Titan form didn't you". Bertholdt whispered to which Reiner nodded his head. He then looked at Twilight. "That little pony is young, but she has potential Bertholdt. Prehaps she can help us retake the Coordinate from Eren". Reiner said. To which Bertholdt simply nodded. Meanwhile Rainbow Dash was talking with Applejack, and Apple Bloom. "Apple Bloom I am so sorry for how I've been treating you all day. I had no right to say it was a mistake to bring you, or to yell at you about the map. I really hope you can forgive me". Rainbow Dash said sadly. Apple Bloom responded by giving Rainbow Dash a big hug, and smilling. "So you do forgive"? Rainbow Dash asked hopefully to which Apple Bloom smiled, and nodded her head. "Thanks Apple Bloom". Rainbow Dash smiled. Over a few meters away Pinkie Pie stood with Fluttershy. "You know we didn't really do alot". Pinkie Pie said. "Meh". Fluttershy shrugged as she walked away confusing Pinkie Pie. "Meh? That's all you've gotta say is meh?". She asked to which Fluttershy just said. "Meh". Again leaving Pinkie Pie confused as Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo who had both seen the hold thing just laughed. Preview When Princess Celestia visits Ponyville Fluttershy notices her sick pet bird, and decieds to take it home in order to help it feel better. However she does this without asking the Princess's permission, and soon trouble arrises. Next Episode. A Bird in a Hoof Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Applejack Twilight Sparkle Apple Bloom Rainbow Dash Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Rarity Spike Sweetie Belle Scootaloo Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Bertholdt Hoover Histoira Reiss (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Jean Kirsten (Flashback) Connie Springer (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Mina Carolina (Flashback) Thomas Wagner (Flashback) Samuel Linke-Jackson (Flashback) Nack Tierce (Flashback) Keith Sadies (Flashback) Princess Celestia Mayor Mare Episode 30: A Bird in a Hoof: Gala arc Part 23It was a bright sunny day at Fluttershy's cottage. The animals were playing in the garden, and roaming throughout the house. Fluttershy in the mean time was just getting finish tending to a mouse that had an injuried leg. "There you go Mr. Mousey." She said as she pushed the mouse to his realived family. "Now you stay off that leg and do everything I told you. And it will be just like new in no time at all." The mice family squeaked in gradituted as Fluttershy blushed. "Oh, you're welcome. Happy to be able to help." She said. All of a sudden Angel came running into the room with a panicked look on his face. He pulled out a stop watch, and began to pick up to pace running stright into Fluttershy's back leg. The pegagus gave out a small yelp, and looked down to see what Angel Wanted. The bunny immedidtly started to wave the watch around, but this only confused Fluttershy. Angel wasn't to keen on actually talking, preffering to play charades instead, that however made it more difficult for Fluttershy to be able to understand him. "You found a watch"? She asked. Angel frowned, and shook his head. He then started to mimic the watch hoping Fluttershy would understand, but that only confused her even more. "You wanted to be a watch"? She guessed. Angel frowned again, and then began to run in place as Fluttershy watched, and tried to guess what he was trying to say. "You're running! Running out of time? No. You're... late?" She guessed. Angel Smiled, that told Fluttersh she was getting close. All of a sudden the clock tower in Ponyville struck four. That was when Fluttershy finally realized what Angel was trying to say. She gasped in shock. "I'm late for a very important date! The big brunch for Princess Celestia at Sugarcube Corner." A millon thought then began to run through Fluttershy's head. "Oh, the princess is here in Ponyville for a party, and we all promised we'd be there. But I'm not there! Oh, do I look all right? Do I need to bring anything? Maybe I shouldn't go. Suddenly a trumpet sounded. "Ahh it's starting, and I'm not there". Fluttershy exclaimed as she ran out of the house. Angel sighed in relief when Fluttershy came back in. "Oh, thanks, Angel". She said before leaving again, but then she came back again "I mean, if you hadn't reminded me, I might have not remembered, and then I wouldn't be there, and everypony would be wondering where I was and... " Before she could finish Angel started to stomp on her hoof. "Oh right, I'm late". Fluttershy realized as she left once more. This time to make sure she wouldn't come back Angel locked the door. Of course as he predicted Fluttershy tried to get back in. Seeing the door was locked Fluttershy just decieded to go. "Oh okay then. See you later". she said, and Angel smiled. At sugarcube corner where the party was happening two royal guards were stationed outside. Rainbow Dash peering out the door decieded to have a little fun with them. "So what do you have to do to be one of the Princesses royal guards anyway"? She asked. However the guards didn't reply. "Is the pay good"? She asked but again got no response. Now Rainbow Dash was getting annoyed. "Hellooo? Anybody home?" But again she got no response. So she started to make a bunch of faces. She tried everything to get a reaction, but got nothing at all. Finally Rainbow Dash had enough. "Ooh, you're good. Too good. I'm bored." She said as she went back into the party just as Fluttershy arrived. "Phew made it". She sighed in relief. However just as she was about to enter the guards suddenly blocked her way, and stared intimidatingly. "Halt! Who goes there". They demanded. Frightened, Fluttershy began to tremble and back away. "No one. Never mind. I'll go home.". Fourtentley for Fluttershy Twilight, and Reiner happend to walk by. Noticing what was happening They quickly moved in to descalate the situation. "It's alright sirs she's on the list". Twilight confirmed. With that the guards removed their wings, and allowed Fluttershy inside, however she noticed one of them was still glaring at her for some reason, but she chose to ignore it. "Thanks you two". Fluttershy said greatfully. "I'm so glad you could make it Fluttershy". Twilight said happily. "Yeah it wouldn't be the same without you". Reiner replied. Fluttershy smiled happy that her friends were all here. Inside the kitchen Spike was helping Mr. and Mrs. Cake with the treats by using his fire breath to heat them up. "How's everypony doing? Good? Good." Mr. Cake said as he walked out of the kitchen with some of the snacks. Meanwhile his wife was making sure Princess Celestia was comfortable with everything. "Anything else we can get for you, dearies...?" She asked befoe quickly correcting herself. "Ooh, I-I mean, esteemed guests." Princess Celestia smiled. "Everything is just fine Mr. and Mrs. Cake". She replied. "Sorry I'm late. I had to finish taking care of a patient first." Fluttershy explained to Twilight, and Reiner. That made Twilight smile. "Oh, you and your tender loving care of little animals. I just know Princess Celestia is gonna love that about you. I mean, I hope she will... I mean, of course she will!" Twilight said, however both Fluttershy, and Reiner could tell she was getting nervous. "Wow, Twilight. I thought I was the only one who got nervous at social gatherings" Fluttershy pointed out. "Oh it's not that. Twilight just wants Princess Celestia to approve of all of us". Reiner explained. That confused Fluttershy a little. "But she's met us all before". Fluttershy pointed out. And read about you in my letters, but this is the first time she's actually sitting down to spend some real time with you all, and I just want it to go well". Twilight explained. "Well, I'm sure you have nothing to worry about. Besides, it's just a casual get-together, right?" Fluttershy asked as she looked around, but soon began to understand why Twilight was a little worried. First Fluttershy saw Rarity, and Sweetie Belle. Rarity was wearing a very fancy gown, and was snapping at anypony who came near her. "Don't touch me! Watch the dress! Careful, you're gonna spill that on me!" Rarity complained as Sweetie Belle groaned in embarssement just as Mrs. Cake came up to them and offered them a cupcake. "Oh, oh, that looks delicious. What is it?" Rarity asked intriqued, but then backed away in horror. "Oh, does it stain?! Keep it away from me!" She shrieked. Rarity even pulled Sweetie Belle away before she could get a cupcake. "Oh come on"! Sweetie Belle groaned. Seeing what happened with Sweetie Belle and Rarity, Fluttershy gave a nervous smile. "Or... perhaps not that casual." She realized as she saw Bertholdt talking with Scootaloo which was interesting seeing as they never really hung out, but they seemed to be having a pretty interesting conversation. "Can you tell me about what you did as a solider"? Scootaloo asked. "I guess I could, but I don't want to go into a lot of details". Bertholdt replied. "Oh that's okay just talk about stuff you're comfortable with". Scootaloo stated. As Scootaloo and Bertholdt began to have their conversation Fluttershy looked over in another direction to see Applejack at the buffet table. She was having a hard time on decideing what to eat. "Uh... which is the salad and which is the appetizer again? And which am I supposed to eat first?" She questioned. First she tried to go for a bowl of salad, then she tried to go for a sandwhich. In the end though she decieded not to eat anything. "Oh, never mind. I'm not hungry." After seeing Applejack Fluttershy couldn't help but notice something. "Hey Twilight"? "Yes Fluttershy"? Twilight said turning to her friend "Well I noticed that Sweetie belle, and Scootaloo are here, but where's Apple Bloom"? Fluttershy asked. "Oh, she stayed home, her leg is feeling really bad today". Twilight replied. "Oh, how bad is it"? Fluttershy asked. "It's to the point where she can't stand for very long with being in intense pain". Reiner answered. "Oh". Fluttershy said as she looked back at the others. She then turned to Twilight who was clearly getting more nervous. " It's okay, Twilight. So our friends' manners aren't perfect. I doubt the princess will even notice." Fluttershy said trying her best to reassure Twilight. However as if fate just wanted to be a bitch to her today Pinkie Pie came bouncing in as if right on cue. "I could almost feel that coming, right as I finshed the sentence". Fluttershy stated as Pinkie bounced around Sugar Cube Corner. "Whoo-hoo! Cupcakes, candies and pies, oh my!" She cheered. Then she spotted a chocolate fountain. "Oooh! Chocolate fountainy goodness!" She dove her head into the chocolate. After that she went over to the Princess who was about to eat a cup cake. "You gonna eat that"? Asked Pinkie before she striaght stole the cupcake from Celestia, and scarfed it down. Fluttershy, Twilight, Reiner, and Mrs. Cake all gasped, but Princess Celestia just smiled as Pinkie Pie was dragged off the table. "Hey"! Pinkie Pie protested as Celestia was giving another cupcake. "A thousand pardons you're magiesty". Mr. Cake apologized. "That's quite alright Mr. and Mrs. Cake Princess Celestia replied as she ate the cupcake, and drank the tea. "Empty teacup at 4 o'clock!" Mrs. Cake exclaimed. "I see it honey bun"! Mr. Cake replied. He went to quickly refill the tea cup suprising Princess Celestia. "Oh um thank you". She said. "It's no trouble at all your magesity." Mr. Cake replied. Princess Celestia drank that tea, and it was filled up again. "Thank you again". Princess Celestia thanked. This happened three more times where Celestia would drink the tea, and the Cakes would refil the cup. When the force cup came Princesss Celestia deceied to have a little fun with them. She pretened to take a sip, and of course Mr. Cake poured some more tea in the cup causing it to spill. "Gothca". Princess Celestia smirked. Reiner snickered, Fluttershy giggled, and Twilight groaned. That's when Princess Celestia turned to the three of them, and adressed Fluttershy. "And what about you, dear? Fluttershy, is it?" Celestia asked. "Me"? Fluttershy gasped in shock that the Princess was adressing her, but quickly composed herself. "Yes your highness". Celestia smiled. "I understand from Twilight Sparkle's letters that you enjoy tending to the needs of woodland creatures." Fluttershy nodded happily. "Yes, I love to take care of animals." Fluttershy stated. "As do I. As Princess, I care deeply about all creatures, great and small." Princess Celestia responed. All of a sudden there was the sound of a cough, it was the Fluttershy noticed the golden bird cage next to the Princess. "Nothing means more to me than the well-being of all my subjects." Princess Celestia continued. The cough was heard again, and this time Princess Celestia noticed it. "Ah, Philomena, my pet. You're awake. Do say hello to our gracious hosts." From inside the cage rose a very strange, and very sick looking bird. It coughed, and sputtered, and it's eyes were drooping. Fluttershy stared in shock. "She is quite a sight, isn't she?". Princess Celestia stated. "I've never seen anything like her". Fluttershy replied still worried about the codition the bird was in. Just then one of the guards came up to Princess Celestia, and whispered something into her ear. "Really"? She asked. The guard nodded. "Well if we must". Princess Celestia stated before adressing everyone in the room. "I'm sorry, everypony. I'm afraid I have to cut the party short. The mayor has requested an audience with me. Royal duty calls. Thank you for a wonderful time. It's been a joy getting to know you all better." She stated as she began to live. "Phew finally I can eat something". Applejack sighed in relief only for all the food to be taken. Fourtently Mr. Cake gave her some stuff to take home with her. Pinkie Pie happily twriled out of the cafe, while Rarity made her way out, making sure to warn anypony who dared get close to her dress to stay back. "Stay right where you are. All I want is a clear path to the exit. Nobody move and my dress won't get hurt! Stay back! Back, I say!" She thretened. Sweetie Belle on the other hoof apologized to everypony Rarity was rude too, and followed her elder sister, with Scootaloo following close behind. As soon as everyone was gone Twilight sighed, and turned to Spike, and Reiner. "Well you two I don't know for sure how things went with the princess, but at least no big disasters happened." She said complety unaware that someone had unlocked the bird cage, and Philomena was missing. Fluttershy quickly and quietly made her way back to her cottage. She was beyond worried having taken Princess Celestia's pet without permission, but the poor thing was so sick that Fluttershy couldn't just sit back and do nothing. "Oh deer, I know I'm doing something wrong, but I can't just sit and do nothing while this poor creature suffers". She thought to herself. Just then she spotted Bertholdt walking along. "Perfect, Bertholdt can help me with this". Fluttershy quickly made her way over to the pegasus stallion. "Bertholdt". She called out. Bertholdt turned around. "Oh hey Fluttershy, what's wrong"? He asked before noticing Philomena. His eyes widened in shock. "Is that Princess Celestia's pet"? Fluttershy nodded. "Why do you have it"?! Bertholdt asked. "She's so sick, look at her Bertholdt I can't just sit by and do nothing while an animal suffers". Fluttershy replied. "Okay I know, but why didn't you ask the Princess for permission"? Bertholdt asked again to which Fluttershy replied. "She was clearly busy, and had no time. Please Bertholdt I need your help. "Woah woah woah Fluttershy do not get me involed in this." Bertholdt replied. However Fluttershy gave him her biggest sad puppy dog eyes she could make. "Pwease". She said doing a little lip quiver as well. Bertholdt's face turned red, and he sighed, "Fine". He replied. Almost immeiditly Fluttershy gave him a big hug. "Oh thank you so much"! She squeeled happily making Bertholdt smile. Currently Publicly Availble Imformation Phionex: A magical bird with beautiful red and oranges feathers. When they reach the end of their lives they loose the feathers, and burst into flames only to be reborn from the ashes. Fluttershy, and Bertholdt arrived back at Fluttershy's cottage with Philomena. "Oh, you poor little thing. How did you ever get in such bad condition? Don't you worry, Philomena. I'll nurse you back to health. As a favor to the princess, who's obviously just far too busy to care for you properly." Fluttershy said. Bertholdt was still nervous about the whole thing, wondering if it really was a good idea. "Fluttershy I'm still not so sure about this, I mean what if the Princess comes looking for her pet"? He asked. Fluttershy however was too focused on making Philomena feel better, that she didn't even think about the consqunces that might await her. "I'm sure the princess will appreciate the help." Fluttershy stated as Philomeana just gagged, and coughed. "Oh my we better get you to bed right away". Fluttershy said as she turned to Bertholdt. "Hand me that thermometer please". she asked. Berthodlt looked to where Fluttershy was pointing and grabbed what she asked for. "Here you are, but Fluttershy". Fluttershy didn't listen. She quickly put Philomeana into bed, but an icepack on her head, and the thermomneter in her mouth. This however coused Philomeana to overheat. Panicking Fluttershy took put the thermomenter, but now Philomeana was too cold. Fluttershy kept putting the thermomenter in and out of Philomeana's mouth until it ended up broken. "This is far worse than I thought. What you need is some medicine. Stat!" Fluttershy stated. She turned to Bertholdt. Nurse Hoover please go into my cabient, and fetch me the pill." Bertholdt blushed in embarssment at being called Nurse, but payed no mind to it as he got what Fluttershy asked for. Fluttershy took the pill, and set it on a plate for Philomena. "Here you go, Philomena. This will fix you right up." She said. Philomena took one snif of the pill, and gagged. "Doctor Fluttershy expected that." Fluttershy stated. "Well what are you gonna do now"? Asked Bertholdt. "Don't you worry, I have a plan." Fluttershy then proceeded to pour an entire bag of bird seed onto the plat to cover the pill. Seeing the bird feed Philomena instantaly ate it all. Fluttershy turned to Bertholdt, and smirked. "Always works". She sad smugly. "Um, are you sure about that"? Bertholdt asked. "What do you mean"? Fluttershy questioned before gasping. Philomena had manged to eat all the bird seed, but not the pill. "Well it almost always works. But don't worry I have another idea". She said. "What's that"? Asked Bertholdt" But again Fluttershy ignored him, and went into the kitchen. Bertholdt just sighed, and decieded to wait. After about 25 minutes Fluttershy returned with a bowl of soup. "There's nothing like homemade soup to cure what ails you." She said. However when she presented the soup to Philomena the bird just turned away. "Come on now. You're not gonna get better if you don't cooperate." Fluttershy stated, but no matter what Fluttershy did Philomena refused to eat the soup. But Fluttershy wasn't going to give up. "Mmm... see? It's delicious. Good and good for you." But Philomena still wouldn't eat the soup. So Fluttershy tried another tatic. "Here comes the choo-choo train. Chugga-chugga, chugga-chugga, whoo-whoo!" Pilomena kept turing away not wanting to eat the soup. Eventually she made herself so disy that her act fell into the bowl. "Oh dear. Don't worry, Philomena. I know what'll make you feel better. Wait right here. I have just the thing." Fluttershy said as she left. "Now where are you going"? Asked Bertholdt. "Don't worry I'll be right back". Fluttershy stated as she went outside. A Few minutes later she returned with another small little bird. "How is that going to help"? Asked Bertholdt. "Just watch". Fluttershy replied as she went over to Philomena with the bird. "Look, Philomena. I brought a fellow feathered friend by to cheer you up. Hummingway here was sick once too, but he let me help him and got better in no time. Didn't you, boy"? Hummingway nodded and flew over to Philomena who actually smiled as Hummingway nuzzled up aganist Philomena's neck "Aww I think he likes you". Fluttershy stated. "Yeah that's the first time I've seen Philomena smile today". Bertholdt replied as Hummingway flew next to Fluttershy, and the two began harmonzing. "You're turn Philomena". Fluttershy encourged. However Philomena just threw up in Fluttershy's face. "Oh Um... good try?" She chuckled nervously. "Do you have any other ideas". Bertholdt asked. "Of course I do, now follow me". Fluttershy replied. They went into the bathroom. "What could help Philomena in here"? Bertholdt asked. "Oh you'll see Bertholdt". Fluttershy answered as she turned to face Philomena. " I know what'll clear up that tickle in your throat. A humidifier." Fluttershy then took a deep breath. "Refresing, wouldn't you agree Bertholdt"? She asked. Bertholdt also took a deep breath in. "Yes you're right it is". He replied. Fluttershy smiled, and turned to Philomena. "How's that feeling now for you, Philomena? Better?" She asked. Philomena took a deep breath, but then coughed again. Bertholdt looked down in dismay as it seemed nothing was working, but Fluttershy refused to give up. "Oh... that's okay. I know lots of other ways to take care of you. Don't worry. You're gonna get better. How about... Aromatherapy?" That didn't work. "A Warm bath"? That also failed. She even tried ointment, but nothing worked. Later Fluttershy was attempting to reatach some of the feathers that had fallen off of Philomena with Angel Bunny assisting her. "Scalpel. Surgical tape. Feathers." Angel gave Fluttershy all the things she asked for, and she began to put Philomena's feathers back on, but alais like all of Fluttershy's other attempts to help Celestia's pet, this one also failed. "Oh, Philomena. I thought it would be easy to nurse you back to health. I've tried everything I know. And look at you. You're worse than ever." Fluttershy sighed. "Maybe we should just take her to an actual vet to see if they can do anything". Bertholdt suggested. Fluttershy was about to respond when there was a knock at the door. Bertholdt peeked out the window to see who it was, and he gasped in shock, and fear. "What's wrong"? Fluttershy asked. "It's Twilight, and Reiner". Bertholdt stated. Fluttershy gasped. She quietly made her way next to Bertholdt, but before either of them could do anything, the door flung open, and both Reiner, and Twilight walked in. "Hello Bertholdt". Twilight said. "Um hi Twilight, hello Reiner". Bertholdt said nervously. "You good man"? Reiner asked seeing that Bertholdt was nervous about someting. Bertholdt just chuckled, as Twilight looked over at Fluttershy. "Hi, Fluttershy! Reiner, and I just wanted to drop by and say thank you so very much for making such a good impression on the princess today... However Twilight stopped, and gasped when she saw Philomena on the table. "Twilight, are you okay"? Reiner asked. But then he saw Philomena too. "What is Celestia's pet doing here?!" Twilight asked. "Would you two care to explain"? Reiner inquired. "It was my fault. I was the one who took Philomena, and I asked Bertholdt to help me". Fluttershy explained. "But why"? Reiner asked. "I couldn't leave the poor thing there. She needed my help." Fluttershy explained. That was when Twilight began to panic. "Oh no. Nonononononono! This is bad". She stated. "How could I just walk away and not do anything?" Fluttershy argued. "But... but... she doesn't belong to you!" Twilight scolded. "I had to do something". Fluttershy stated firmly. "Without telling anypony?! Without asking permission?!" Twilight asked. "Twilight calm down". Reiner stated as he looked back at Fluttershy. "Fluttershy listen to me, I know you had good intentions, but you have got to return the princess's pet!" "But". Fluttershy was about to argue but looked back and saw how Philomena looked. She sighed. "You're right". Reiner smiled, glad that Fluttershy was willing to listen to him. Twilight calmed down after hearing Fluttershy say that. "If we hurry, we can put her back before anypony even realizes she's missing." Twilight said as she went to the door, however as soon as she opened it, she was faced to face with to members of the royal guard. Luckily Bertholdt had thought quickly and put Philomena in a basic, and covered her up as one of the guards began to speak. "We were told we could find Twilight Sparkle here." The first one said. Twilight just stared at the two of them as the other began to talk. "We regret to inform you, miss, that the royal pet has gone missing." The second one said. Twilight chuckled nervously at this. "Really? You don't say". All of sudden from inside the box Philomena coughed. Thinking quickly Twilight coughed as well. Soon she, Fluttershy, Reiner, and Bertholdt all started coughing in an attempt to hide the fact that Philomena was there. "Gee, the air sure is dry". Reiner stated. "Yeah, it's that dry night air". Twilight replied. "But it's day". Fluttershy pointed out. "Well... day air's even drier". Twilight told her. She then turned back to the guards. "You guards better be on your way if you're gonna find the princess's missing pet. Philomena, was it? Thank you ever so much for keeping me in the loop. Bye!" She said as she closed the door. "That was close". Bertholdt stated. "I'll say, we're going to have to". Twilight stopped when she noticed Fluttershy heading towards the door with Philomena and Reiner. "What are you two doing"?! She demanded. "Going to return Philomena". Fluttershy replied. "We can't now"! Twilight stated. "Why not"? Asked Reiner. "You have no idea what the princess is gonna do if she finds you two are the ones who took her pet, do you?!" Twilight said pointing to Fluttershy, and Bertholdt. "Do you"? Asked Bertholdt. "Well... no. But it can't be anything good. She might banish you from Equestria. Or throw you in a dungeon. Or banish you and then throw you in a dungeon in the place that she banishes you to!" Twilight said. "Do you really think she'd do that"? Fluttershy asked. "Of course not, Twilight you're overreacting". Reiner stated. "Am I Reiner, Am I"? Twilight asked only to recivce a glare from Reiner. "Okay maybe you're right, that probably won't happen. But still do any of you wanna take that chance"? Twilight. Reiner just sighed. "Alright, I guess you have a point, but what are we gonna do now"? He asked. "I.... Don't know". Twilight responed. "What do you two think"? She asked turning to Fluttershy, and Bertholdt. "All that really matters to me is that poor little Philomena here gets well." Fluttershy replied. "That's very noble of you. I'll write to you when you're banished. Unless I'm banished to somewhere there's no post office. Then you'll have to write to me. Deal?" Twilight replied. Reiner rolled his eyes. Fluttershy then looked at the two of them. "Please you two You just have to help me get Philomena healthy and then we can return her to the princess. And everything will be fine." She told them. They both looked at her. "Fluttershy". Twilight began, but stopped when she saw the puppy dog eyes Fluttershy was giving them. Twilight sighed, and stared at Philomena. "Did you give her any kind of Medicane"? Reiner asked. "I tried to, but she wouldn't take it." Fluttershy replied. This made Twilight groan. "Then you have to make her take it. You can't be such a pushover, Fluttershy! You need to show this patient who's the boss. Make her straighten up and fly right!" "She can't fly"! Fluttershy pointed out. "No excuese"! Twilight said firmly. She then pop Philomena's mouth open, and dropped the pill inside which Philomena had no choice but to swallow. "Done, anything else"? Twilight asked. "Well, she keeps pulling her feathers off. The ones that haven't fallen out yet from all her coughing, I mean.". Bertholdt informed. Twilight then put a cone on Philomena's head. "There you go". She said. "Twilight are you sure that will help"? Reiner asked. "Oh don't worry Reiner everything's going to be fine. She said before turning back to Fluttershy, and Bertholdt. "What do you guys think"? She asked them. "I don't think she likes the cone"? Fluttershy replied. "Tough love, baby. You want her to get well, don't you?" "Of course but". Fluttershy began "Next"! Twilight intterupted. "Well, she desperately needs some bed rest, but I can't get her to stay put." Fluttershy replied. Twilight simply tripped Philomena. "One step ahead of you". She smirked. Philomena was placed inside a birdcage. She had a blanket draped over her, and she was not happy. "It's for your own good, Philomena, I promise. Please, just relax and try to get some sleep." Fluttershy begged. Meanwhile Twilight was over by the soup that Fluttershy had made eariler. "What's this soup over here? Smells delicious." Twilight stated. "I made it for Philomena, but she wouldn't eat it". Fluttershy replied. "Oh she's defenitly going to eat it". Twilight stated. She then walked over to the cage, pulled off the cover, opened , and presented the bowl to Philomena. However as soon as Philomena saw the soup, she scremed, and ran out of the cage. "Hey where are you going"?! Twilight shouted. Philomena just ran out the door. "No Philoeman come back"! Fluttershy shouted as she, Twilight, and Reiner ran after her. "Come on Bertholdt"! Reiner called out. "Oh um right"! Bertholdt replied as he follwed. Philomean ran past Sweet Apple Acres. Then around a tree. She moved a cross some clothelines as two memebers of the Royal Guard were asking a stalion if he had seen her, to which he shook his head no. She even disgued herself by putting on a mustache and reading a newspaper. Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Fluttershy came up to her. Twilight and Fluttershy were fooled by the disguse and asked Philomena if she had seen herself, to which she shurgged. The chase went on for a few more moments until Rainbow Dash noticed what was happening. Curious she flew after them. "What are you guys doing? She asked. "What does it look like"? Reiner asked in return. Rainbow Dash thought for a moment. "Are you having a race? Oh, can I play? One, two, three, go!" She exclaimed. Reiner just groaned as they met up with Pinkie Pie, Sweetie Belle, Applejack, Scootaloo, and Rarity. Fluttershy then lifted Pinkie Pie off the ground. "Excuse me". She said. "Hiya"! Pinkie Pie replied chipperly. Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt did the same thing to Rarity, and Applejack. "Beg your pardon". Twilight apologized. "Put me down". Rarity demanded. "Sorry". Reiner said. "What in tarnation"? Asked Applejack. They all looked at Fluttershy, Reiner, Twilight, and Bertholdt in confusion. "What are you doing"? Asked Sweetie Belle. "Yeah ya'll are acting crazier then a bronking bull with a hernia". Applejack stated only for her to recive puzzled looks from the others. "If Granny Smith said that you all would have lost your minds laughing". She pointed out. Fluttershy then spoke up. "Sorry, but we've gotta find..." But she was intterupted by the voice of one of the Royal Guard Members. "The Princess pet bird"! He exclaimed. Everyone looked up to see Philomean on top of the fountain. "Philomena, come down from there! You'll hurt yourself!" Fluttershy exclaimed. And like Fluttershy feared Philoeman fell off the fountain. Fluttershy gasped in horror. "I'll catch you"! She shouted as she rushed over to try and stop Philomena from falling. Unfourntenly before Fluttershy could catch Philomean the bird bursted into flames. Everyone gasped in horror, as Fluttershy caught the ashes. Her eyes filled with tears. "Oh no". Bertholdt muttered just as Princess Celestia arrived. "What's going on here"? She demanded. "Twilight"? Twilight sighed. "Yes Princess there's been a terrible accident. "It was my fault". Fluttershy stated only for Twilight to intterupt. "No, Princess. Fluttershy didn't know any better. It was my fault." She said. "But I'm the one who did it". Fluttershy pointed out. "But you were only trying to help". Twilight remided her. "Some help I was". Fluttershy stated. "Will ya let me do this? She'll go easier on me." Twilight begged. "But it's my fault". Fluttershy argued. "No it's my fault"! Twilight argued back. "No it's my fault". Pinkie Pie suddendly exclaimed before looking at everyone in confusion. "Wait what are we talking about again?" "I honestly have no idea". Scootaloo stated. Finally Fluttershy sighed. "Thanks for trying to protect me, Twilight, but..." Fluttershy walked up to Princess Celestia. "Princess Celestia, I'm the one who took your pet bird. I really was only trying to help the poor little thing. Then I was gonna bring it right back to you, honest. So, if you wanna banish me and then throw me in a dungeon in the place that you banish me to, then that's what I deserve." She said sadly. "I helped her, so punish me too". Bertholdt pointed out. Fluttershy gasped. She was about to say something when Reiner spoke up as well. "So did I". "And me". Twilight responed sadly. Princess Celestia didn't say anything. She walked over to the ashes, and looke down. Then a small smile spread across her face. "Oh, stop fooling around, Philomena. You're scaring everypony." She said. All of a sudden sparks flew around the ashes as the floated up into the air, the was a burst, and out of the ashes came a new bird. This one was different from Philomena it was covered in beautiful orange and red feathers, and was clearly very healthy. The other poines looked on in shock, and cofusion, espsecaily Fluttershy. "I don't understand! What is that thing? What happened to Philomena?" She asked. "This is Philomena. She's quite a sight, as I said. But nothing unusual for a phoenix" Celestia said. "Isn't that right, Philomena? "What's a phoenix"? Fluttershy asked. " A phoenix is a majestic and magical bird. While it appears healthy and happy most of the time, every so often it must renew itself by shedding all of its feathers and bursting into flame." Rather melodramatic, if you ask me." Celestia whispered before continung. "It then rises from the ashes, fresh as a daisy. All just a normal part of the life cycle of a phoenix. I'm afraid mischievous little Philomena here took the occasion to have a little fun with you, Fluttershy." Celestia said before turning to her pet. Say you're sorry young lady". Philomena squaked an apolgy. Fluttershy smiled before looking back up at Princess Celestia. " So... aren't you gonna banish me? Or throw me in a dungeon? Or banish me and then throw me in a dungeon in the place that you banish me to?" She asked. "Of course not, my little pony". Princess Celestia stated. "Where on Earth would you get such an idea"? Fluttershy looked at Twilight. "I guess I have quite the imagantion". Fluttershy replied. "Fluttershy really did do everything she could to try to take care of Philomena for you." Twilight said. "And I do appreciate that your heart was in the right place, child. But all you had to do was ask me and I could have told you Philomena was a phoenix and saved you all this trouble." Celestia reminded them " I know. I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions. Next time I'll ask before taking matters into my own hooves." Fluttershy replied. "Should I write you a letter on that"? Twilight asked. "No that's qutie all right, I think I'll remember that one". Princess Celestia said as the guards brought Philomena's cage. Philomena then gave Fluttershy one of her feathers as a way to apolgize. "It's beautiful Thank you, Philomena. No hard feelings." She said. Meanwhile Rainbow Dash still wanted to make the guards laugh. Then she got an Idea. She flew up to Philomena. "Hey, you know what you should do? You should go over there and tickle them!" Philomena nodded her head, and did just that. And it worked. The guards bursted out laughing. "Yes"! Rainbow Dash Cheered. While thinking of ways to get their cutie marks, the CMCs decied to go around and ask their friends how they got theirs. There they learn a heartwarming story about friendship and how the bounds of it carry out even before said friends meet. Next Episode. The Cutie Mark Chronicles Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Fluttershy Angel Bunny Rainbow Dash Pinkie Pie Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Spike Mr. Cake Mrs. Cake Princess Celestia Rarity Sweetie Belle Lemon Hearts Cherry Berry Shoeshine Bertholdt Hoover Scootaloo Applejack Apple Bloom Amethyst Star Golden Harvest Philomena Twinkleshine Berry Punch Lyra Heartstrings Minnuette Sweetie Drops Big Macintosh Granny Smith Episode 31: The Cutie Mark Chronicles: Gala arc Part 24Near the outskirts of ponyvile Apple Bloom was leading Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover somewhere. "Come on, it's this way". She said while on top of Reiner's shoulders. She still had a broken leg from the encounter with the bufflo herd in Appleloosa so she needed help getting around. "Woah hold on there Apple Bloom, what's so important you wanna us to see so bad"? Reiner asked. Apple Bloom just gave a cheeky smile. "I'm not telling". She said in a sing song voice. "Well are we almost there"? Asked Bertholdt. "Yep, just past these bushes". Apple Bloom replied. The three of them went through the bushes like Apple Bloom said. There Reiner, and Bertholdt saw what appeared to be a big poster with a bunch of pictures on it. "What is it"? Asked Reiner curiously. "Miss Cheerlie asked us to make a poster with our family tree, so I got a big peace of paper and started putting pictures of my family on it. Look here, there's Ma, and Daddy, Braeburn, and everypony else." Apple Bloom answered. "This is amazing Apple Bloom, did you work on it all by yourself"? Bertholdt asked. "No I had Applejack, Big Mac, and Granny Smith help out". Apple Bloom said. "So why did you want to show us this"? Asked Reiner. "Because I just wanted to". Apple Bloom replied. Ooh I even have to give a speech, can I share the one I wrote down with you"? She asked. "Of course Reiner said. Apple Bloom pulled out a peace of paper, and began to read off of it. ""Hi, my name is Apple Bloom, and I want to tell you about my family. You see I live on Sweet Apple Acers with my Grandmother, my Big Brother, and my Big Sister. Together we". All of a sudden she was intterupted by the voice of Scootaloo. "Hey Apple Bloom"! Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt all heard Scootaloo, but chose to ignore her as Apple Bloom continued. "Ahem Ahem together we". But Scootaloo called out again. "Apple Bloom where the hell are you". Reiner looked over at Apple Bloom, he could see she was getting a little frustrated, and overwhelmed. "Why don't you start over". He Suggested. Apple Bloom took a deep breath. "Okay. "Hi, my name is Apple Bloom". She started over as Scootaloo kept calling "Apple Bloom"! "And I wanna tell you". Apple Bloom continued, but no matter how hard she, Reiner, and Bertholdt tried, Scootaloo kept calling for Apple Bloom's name until the orange pegagus came out of the bushes. "Hey Apple Bloom". She said. Apple Bloom sighed, and put down her paper. "Yes Scootaloo". She said calmly, though she was clearly frustrated. "Come on, Sweetie Belle, and I are waiting for you". "Waiting for me to do what"? Apple Bloom asked. "You'll see". Scootaloo replied. "Mr. Braun, and Mr. Hoover can come as well". Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt just stared at each other before following Scootaloo. Scootaloo led Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt to another wooded area, stopping at a specfic tree. "What exactaly are we doing here"? Apple Bloom asked. "Sweetie Belle, and I thought of a perfect way for the three of us to get our cutie marks". Scootaloo replied. This sparked the other three ponies curiosty. "And what way is that"? Bertholdt asked. "Ziplining"! Scootaloo answered. Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom all looked up to the top of the tree, and saw Sweetie Belle already waiting up there. Apple Bloom looked back at Scootaloo like she was nuts. "Scootaloo did you forget I have a broken leg"?! She asked. "Of coruse not! We're not going to make you go, we just wanted you to see us in action". Scootaloo replied. "But, if you do this, and it works, then only you and Sweetie Belle will have cutie marks, and I'll be back to being to only blank flank in school dealing with Diamond Tiara." Apple Bloom replied. "Hey come on now, don't talk like that, even if Sweetie Belle, and I do get our cutie marks we are still going to be your friends no matter what." Scootaloo replied. That made Apple Bloom feel a bit better. "Alright, but be careful". She warned. "Apple Bloom's right, I'm not exaclty sure this is safe, but I know for a fact that I can't stop you". Reiner replied. Scootaloo smiled, and hoisted herself up to were Sweetie Belle was waiting. "You ready"? Scootaloo asked. Sweetie Belle looked down, and gulped nervously. "Are you sure about this, Scootaloo? I've never even heard of a pony zip lining before." She said. "Neither have I, but Spike told me it was awesome!" Scootaloo replied. Soon she and Sweetie Belle leapt off the platform, and started ziplining. Down below, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom all watched. "Wow, they seem to be doing pretty good". Bertholdt stated. "Yeah, I'll say". Reiner nodded in agreement. "Just wait, something tells me this is going to go horribly wrong". Apple Bloom pointed out, and it did. Halfway through their free fall, the rope holding up Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo snapped sending them falling to the ground. CRASH! BANG! THUD! They fell through leaves, and branches before hiting the ground. Luckily neither one of them was hurt, only covered in leaves, and sticky sap. Bertholdt, Apple Bloom, and Reiner came up to them. "Are you two alright"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Yeah, were fine". Sweetie Belle replied. "Did we get our cutie marks"? Scootaloo asked hopefully. Apple Bloom looked at their flanks, and saw that they were still blank. "No, sorry". She replied sadly, though she was a bit relieved that they didn't get their cutie marks. "Damnit"! Scootaloo cursed. "Plan B"? Sweetie Belle asked. Scootaloo nodded. "Yeah. You know where we can find a cannon at this hour?" She asked. Everyone just looked at her, and she immeidtly relaized the audacity of what she said. "It's no use! No matter what we try, we always end up without our cutie marks. And, surprisingly often, covered in tree sap." "Maybe we should do something less dangerous, like pillow testing or flower sniffing." Sweetie Belle said. "This town is full of of ponies who have their cutie marks. Why don't you three ask them how they did it". Reiner suggested as he gave Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle towels, and buckets to clean themselves off with. Apple Bloom smiled. "That sounds like a great, safe idea". She agreed. The other two nodded as well. "Yeah! And we can start with the coolest pony in Ponyville." Scootaloo stated. "Applejack"! Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Rarity"! Sweetie Belle cheered. Scootaloo just stared at them an rolled her eyes. "Come on, guys, I said "cool"! You know who I'm talking about. She's fast. She's tough. She's not afraid of anything!" This only guarnerd more confusion from Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom. "Pinkie Pie"? They asked in confusion which frustrated Scootaloo even more. "No! The greatest flyer ever to come out of Cloudsdale." "Fluttershy"? Both Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom guessed. "I'm pretty sure Scootaloo's talking about Rainbow Dash". Reiner stated which caused Scootaloo to throw her hooves up in relief. "THANK YOU"! She exclaimed before looking to Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle. "Yes, I was talking about Rainbow Dash". "Oh! Yeah, that makes much more sense. Apple Bloom said. "Of course". Sweetie Belle replied. Scootaloo smiled. "Let's do it. Let's find out how Rainbow Dash earned her cutie mark!" She said. "YEAH"! Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle cheered. Scootaloo went to high five them, but Apple Bloom stopped her. "Uh Scootaloo, you still have sap on your hooves." Scootaloo gave an embarrased smile and washed the sap from her hooves. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all set off on their journey to find Rainbow Dash, and ask her how she got her cutie mark. Reiner, and Bertholdt were tagging along as well. Apple Bloom was riding on Reiner's bag due to her broken leg. As they traveled all of a sudden a trio bunnies came out from some nearby bushes. Seeing them, Scootaloo quickly applied the breaks on her scooter stoping just before she struck the bunnies. "Where did they come from"? Asked Bertholdt. "I'm not sure". Scootaloo replied. All of sudden they heard the voice of Applejack yell out. "Come back here ya thievien bastards"! "Thievien what now"? Apple Bloom asked just as Applejack came charging out of the bushes. Reiner quickly got himself, and Apple Bloom out of the way, but Scootaloo, Bertholdt, and Sweetie Belle weren't so lucky. Applejack looked to see who she crashed into. and saw Reiner, and Apple Bloom standing above her. "Apple Bloom"? Applejack asked in confusion. Apple Bloom just waved. "What are ya'll doing"? Applejack asked. "Bertholdt and I are taking the CMCs to find Rainbow Dash so they can ask her how she got her cutie mark". Reiner explained. "Oh I see". Applejack said. Just then Apple Bloom got an idea. "Hey Applejack how did you get your cutie mark"? Apple Bloom asked. "I never told you the story"? Applejack said in confusion? "I know how you got your cutie mark, but I'm sure Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo would like to know how you got it". Apple Bloom stated "Hold on, I thought we we're going to ask Rainbow Dash". "We need all the help we can get". Apple Bloom replied. "But". Scootaloo began only for Apple Bloom to give Scootaloo a glare the instantly shut her up". "Fine". She sighed. Meanwhile Sweetie Belle looked at Bertholdt. "Apple Bloom can be both very sweet, and very terrifying". She stated. Bertholdt just nodded as Applejack began her story. "Why shoot, it was around five years ago when it happened, infact I was a tad bit older then ya'll". Applejack stated. "Really"? Sweetie Belle asked in amazment. "That's right". Applejack said as she remembered back to that day. (845) Applejack, with a bag over her back walked away from Sweet Apple Acres, as Granny Smith, Big Mac, their parents, and a younger Apple Bloom looked on with saddend looks on their faces. "I didn't want to spend my life on a muddy old apple farm. I wanted to live the sophisticated life, like my Aunt n' Uncle Orange. So I set out to try my luck in the big city, Manehattan! The most cosmopolitan city in all of Equestria." . Applejack Stated "Wait a mintue"! Reiner intterupted causing everyone to look at him. "Yes Mr. Braun"? Asked Applejack. "If you were just a child then how did you get all to Manehatten by yourself"? Reiner asked. "I took a train, and bought a ticket of course". Applejack replied. "Oh". Reiner stated. "May I continue"? Asked Applejack. "Carry on". Reiner said. "Anyways". Applejack began again. Young Applejack walked through the large streets of Manehatten staring in awe of the tall buldings, and lights. However the residents of the city weren't all that friendly. "How out of the way you rube"! One said coldly. Young Applejack shurnk down ofter being yelled at, but she carried on, and eventually she came to the building where her Aunt, and Uncle Lived. "I knew I'd find out who I was meant to be in Manehattan". She narrated. Applejack walked inside the building, and found Aunt, and Uncle Oranges appartment. The two of them were delighted to see her when they opened the door. "Aunt Orange! Uncle Orange! Thank y'all so much for lettin' me stay! Young Applejack said in delight". "Y'all". Aunt Orange Laughed. "Isn't she just the living end?" "How Quaint". Uncle Orange Replied. Aunt Orange then turned to the Young Applejack. "Don't worry. We'll have you acting like a true Manehattanite in no time." She reassured. Sometime later Young Applejack was attending a dinner party with her aunt, and uncle, as well as their fancy friends. Applejack herself now had her hair fixed up in a new fancy fancy style just like her Aunt Orange. Applejack put on a smile, but deep down she was extremly nervous, after all these weren't ponies like her folks back home. She needed to behave just like them. Suddenly one of the fancy ponies spoke to her. "And how are you finding good old Manehattan?" He asked Applejack curiously. "Oh, it's simply divine." Young Applejack replied. Aunt Orange smiled. "Excellent work dear". She complemented as Applejack continued. "Although, I must admit the city noise took some getting used to. Where I'm from, nights are so quiet, you seldom hear a peep until the roosters wake you." Young Applejack explained. This however garnerd her confused looks from the others. "The...... What"? One asked. "I say, my dear, what in the world is a "rooster"? The pony that first spoke the her asked. Applejack realizing she screwed tried to think of a way out of her current situation. "What's he talking about? What do I say? I don't wanna look like a fool. She thought to herself. She was just about to come up with a reply when she was litterley saved by the bell. "Dinner is served". The waiter said. Applejack sighed in relief. "Finally I'm so hungry I could eat a". However she stopped when she saw that on her plate was just a very small piece of something she didn't even know what it was. Sometime later young Applejack was looking out her window feeling rather sad. "Cock-a-doodle- doo I wonder what the family's doing right now. I bet they're applebuckin' their way through the Red Delicious trees. Oh, what I wouldn't give for just one bite..." She said sadly. "I never felt so homesick in all my days as I did right then." Applejack narrated. All of a sudden there was a huge explosion, Applejack looked out the window, and saw a rainbow pointing right in the direction of Sweet Apple Acres. Knowing what she had to do Applejack ran all the way home and was reunited with Granny Smith and Big Macintosh who hugged her titley as her Cutie Mark Appeared. "It was amazin'! A rainbow pointin' right back to... home. In that moment, it all became clear. I knew right then just who I was supposed to be. That's when this here appeared." She narrated. "I've been working on the farm ever since". Applejack finished, but then she looked down sadly. "Of course, when I got back, that was when I learned about Ma, and Pa". She said. Apple Bloom looked down as well, remebering that day. Applejack seeing this put a comforting hoof on Apple Bloom's shoulder's. Just then the bunnies returned and blew raseberrries at Applejack. "There they are! Get back here, ya thievin' varmints!" Applejack shouted as she chased after the bunnies leaving the Crusaders, and Warriors behind. "Aw. That was such a sweet story!" Sweetie Belle said. "Sweet? You mean sappy, ugh". Scootaloo replied. Come on you guys let's find Rainbow Dash and learn the cool way to earn a cutie mark"! Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were about to rush off, but looked back to see that Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt weren't following them. "Are you three coming"? Sweetie Belle asked. When Apple Bloom didn't respond she and Scootaloo went to check to see what they were doing. Apple Bloom looked up. "Oh sorry I was just thinking about Applejack's story, but anyways let's go see Rainbow Dash". Apple Bloom smiled. Sweetie Belle just looked at her confused. "Oooookay". She said befoe hoping back in the wagon. Scootaloo then sped off. "Slow down"! Reiner called out as he Apple Bloom, and Bertholdt followed after them. Currently Publicly Availbe Information Flight School. A school in Cloudsdale where Pegasi go in order to train on how to be better fliers throughout Equestria. Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom traveled across the road trying to get find Rainbow Dash, and find out about her cutie mark story. Soon they came across Fluttershy's cottage. As Scootaloo drove her scooter closer all of sudden Fluttershy appeared right in front of her. Scootaloo tried to stop, but her scooter hit a bump sending both her and Sweetie Belle flying into the air, and landing infront of Fluttershy. Apple Bloom saw this and couldn't help but giggle, this made Bertholdt, and Reiner smile while Sweeite Belle, and Scootaloo just glared. Fluttershy however simply looked to her left, and spoke. "All right, little ones. This way. This way." She said to some ducklings before turning back to Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "You two should be more careful someone could get hurt". "Good moring Fluttershy". Reiner greeted. "Hello Reiner, Bertholdt, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo where are you off ot in such a hurry"? Fluttershy asked. "We're trying to find Rainbow Dash, so we can hear how she earned her cutie mark." Scootaloo replied. "Oh, that would be interesting. You know, I wouldn't have gotten my cutie mark if it weren't for her." Fluttershy stated, this peaked Scootaloo's interest. "Really, Rainbow Dash helpe you get your cutie mark"? "Yep". Fluttershy replied. "Tell us please". Scootaloo begged. Fluttershy blinked in confusion. "Well it's kind of a long story, and I don't wanna bore you". "You won't bore us Fluttershy, and plus we need to get all the help we can get". Apple Bloom replied. Fluttershy thought for a bit. "Well..... Alright she said. "It all started in Summer Flight Camp. (845) Fluttershy thought back to when she was living in cloudsdale. She was getting ready to take a flying test. "You'd never guess, but when I was little I was very shy. And a very weak flyer. Fluttershy narrated. Young Fluttershy was doing a training excersie that involved needing to fly through some cloud shaped hoops in the air. She watched as two other fillies flew through the hoops. Then it was her turn. Young Fluttershy used all of her stregeth to lift herself off the ground. However when she got to the first hoop she tripped, and fell, sliding down a cloud shapped hill, and crashing into to a flag pole. Then she heard laughing. Young Fluttershy looked up to see Young Hoops, Dumbell, and Score laughing at her. "Nice going, "Klutzershy"! They oughtta ground you permanently." Young Dumbell teased. "Ha! My baby brother can fly better than you!" Hoops sneered. Young Fluttershy felt terrible. " It was the most humiliating moment of my life. And then, out of nowhere..." She narrated. With a zip, and a woosh, Young Rainbow Dash came flying into the scene. She was very cross. "Leave her alone". She yelled at the bullies, but they just laughed at her. "Ooh, what are you gonna do, "Rainbow Crash"?" Asked Young Hoops. "Keep making fun of her and find out". Youn Rainbow Dash replied. The bullies just sneered. "You think you're such a big shot? Why don't you prove it?" Young Dumbell stated. This peaked young Rainbow Dash's curioisty. "Whaddya have in mind?" She asked. "A Race around the obsetcal course". Young Hoops answered. "And what does the winner get"? Young Rainbow Dash asked. "If you win, we'll leave both of you alone forever". Young Dumbell stated. "But when we win you and Klutzershy have to leave flight camp forever". Young Hoops stated ominusaly. I had never been more nervous in my life, those three bullies were very cruel, however while I was cowering in fear Rainbow Dash eyed them directly, and accepted their challange. Fluttershy narrated. "You're on". Young Rainbow Dash said. Later everyone had gather around to witness the race between Rainbow Dash, and the Bullies. "You're going down"! Young Hoops stated. "In history, maybe." Young Rainbow Dash smirked. "See you at the finish line"! Young Fluttershy stood on another cloud with a checkered flag, she waited for the right moment, and then she waved the flag, singling the start of the race. Young Rainbow Dash, and the bullies set off, however their speed ended up causing Young Fluttershy to get knocked off the cloud she was standing on. Because she was a weak flyer Young Fluttershy couldn't save herself. She closed her eyes and prepared for the end. However a down bellow a flock of butterflies could see Fluttershy was in danger, and they quickly moved in to form a form of net to catch her. It worked, and Young Fluttershy was saved. I had never seen such beautiful creatures. Butterflies don't fly as high as my cloud home. And I'd never been near the ground before. Fluttershy told The Crusaders, and Warriors. Indeed it was. The butterflies began to carry young Fluttershy as if to show her the world on the ground. She was amazed by all the creatures she saw, birds, squriells, chipmunks, and bunnies everywhere. It was so wonderful, that Young Fluttershy couldn't help but start singing about them. What is this place Filled with so many wonders? Casting its spell That I am now under Squirrels in the trees And the cute little bunnies Birds flying free And bees with their honey Hooooonneeeeeeey! Oooh, what a magical place And I owe it all to the Pegasus race If I knew the ground had so much up its sleeve I'd have come here sooner, and never leave Yes, I love ev-er-ythiiiiing! The animals all cheered, the loved Fluttershy's song, when all of a sudden there was a massive explosion. Young Fluttershy looked up, and saw a shockwave of color in the sky. The noise of the explosion however also frightened her new animal friends, and they all went to hide. Remembering how they had helped her Young Fluttershy decieded to return the favor. First she went to a bush where three trembling bunnies were. "Shhh. It's okay." She said. Then she went to a squriel nest in a tree. "You can come out." She told them. "Everything's okay". she said to the frogs. "There's nothing to be afraid of". She told the birds. Soon all the animals came out. They felt comfort, and warmth with Young Fluttershy. It was as if they knew no matter what they could realy on her, and everything would be okay as she would protect them. "Somehow I had the ability to communicate with the animals on a different level." Young Fluttershy's cutie mark then appeared. However after the story there was one question on Scootaloo's mind. "Wait, wait, wait. What happened to Rainbow Dash? What about the race?" She asked. "Oh. Well, I wasn't there, so I don't really know what happened." Fluttershy replied. Scootaloo frowned hearing that. She looked back at the others. "Come on you guys we have to find Rainbow Dash, besides I can't take anymore singing". She stated. "Maybe Rarity knows where Rainbow Dash is". Sweetie Belle got into the wagon. Scootaloo then sped off. "See you later Fluttershy". Reiner said as he Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom followed after Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle. "Bye you guys". Fluttershy said. Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom followed Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo close behind. "Man Scootaloo really wants to here Rainbow Dash's Cutie Mark Story". Bertholdt stated. "I'll say, but then again she does look up to Rainbow Dash". Reiner stated. "Still she didn't have to be rude". Apple Bloom muttered, however Reiner heard her. "What was that"? He asked. Apple Bloom sighed. "She said Applejack's story was too sappy". "Ah, I see, and that upset you, but why might I ask"? Asked Reiner. "Our parents died before Applejack came back, the day she left was the last day she saw them alive". Apple Bloom. explained. "Oh, I see". Reiner stated. "Bertholdt and I haven't seen our parents for five years now, so we don't know if they're alive or not". "Oh I'm so sorry". Apple Bloom said sadly. "Anyways let's change the subject. Apple Bloom what did you think of Fluttershy's story"? Bertholdt asked. "I thought it was very sweet, I loved how Fluttershy was able to help the animals feel better after the explosion". Apple Bloom answered. "Me too". Bertholdt replied. "I kind of hope we here Rarity's Cutie Mark story as well, and Twilight's, and Pinkie Pie's. Apple Bloom said. "I'd honestly love to here their stories too, but I'm not to sure about Scootaloo". Reiner stated Apple Bloom giggled. "Yeah, she only wants to huh"? Apple Bloom stopped, she looked into the distance. There standing in between the trees seemed to be the same little pegagus filly Apple Bloom had first saw in her dream the day of Diamond Tiara's cute-cenenara, and when she, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo went after Fluttershy's chicken when she watched them. "Apple Bloom"! Reiner's voiced snapped Apple Bloom out of her trance. "Are you okay"? He asked. Apple Bloom looked up to see the filly was gone. "Yeah, I just thought I saw something". She replied. "What was it"? Reiner asked. "Oh, um nothing". Apple Bloom stated. "Okay". Reiner said droping the subject. Soon the arrived at the Carosuel Boutique. Sweetie Belle hopped out of the wagon and opened the door. "Rarity are you home"? She asked. "Yes Sweetie Belle what brings you here". Rarity asked as she walked into the room, Oh I see you brought Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom, as well as Mr. Braun, and Mr. Hoover. I'm glad you're her actually. "How come"? Asked Reiner. "Because I need the girls help with some designs I'm making." Rarity replied. "What but we don't" Scootaloo began to say only for Apple Bloom to intterupt her. "We'd be happy to help Miss. Rarity". Apple Bloom stated. The CMCs, Bertholdt, and Reiner followed Rarity up the stairs to her dressing room. There she had Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo stand on a platform of some sorts while she meassured them and fitted them with some fabric she had made. Rarity then did the same for Apple Bloom who was sitting a more comfortable postion do to her leg, while Reiner, and Bertholdt stood off to the side. Scootaloo groaned in frustration. "How did we get roped into this? Oh, we'll never hear Rainbow Dash's story." She complained. Rarity heard this and gave a small smile. "Are you girls still obsessing over your cutie marks?" She asked. "Of course! Most of the fillies at school already have theirs." Sweetie Belle replied. "They want to hear how Rainbow Dash got her Cutie Mark". Reiner stated. "Mmm, I know how you feel. For the longest time I couldn't figure out why I didn't have mine." Rarity replied. This made Apple Bloom perk up. "Will you tell us your Cutie Mark Story"? She asked. "I mean if you want to hear it". Rarity replied. Apple Bloom nodded exictedly. "We already heard Applejack, and Fluttershy's stories, so we might as well hear your's". Bertholdt stated. (845) At Ponyville Junior High the fillies were getting ready for the spring time peformace. Young Rarity had made serveal costumes for the students, and her teacher was very impressed. However YoungRarity wasn't too found of her work "Well done, Rarity. Your costumes are very nice." Her teacher complemented. "Nice?! They need to be spectacular! And the performance is tomorrow!" Young Rarity stated. Back at her home she tried everything she could think of to make the perfect costumes, but she couldn't come up with anything. I tried every trick I could think of, but nothing seemed to work. The costumes just weren't right, and the play opened that night. "Maybe I'm not meant to be a fashionista after all..." Young Rarity sighed. All of a sudden her horn began to glow, then it began dragging her out of her house into an unknown direction. "Aah! What's going on?!" Young Rarity shrieked in a panic. She tried to fight her horn, and get control over her body back, but she gave up, and decieded to just let her horn take her where it wanted to take her. "I had no idea where my horn was taking me. But unicorn magic doesn't happen without a reason. I knew this had to do with my love of fashion and maybe even my Cutie Mark! I knew that this was... My destiny!" She narrted. Young Rarity's horn dragged her across ponyvile, through a field, through a dessert, over some hills, through a gorge. Until finally it found it's destination. Young Rarity looked up, and saw a big, gigantic........ Rock. It was a rock, a plan simple rock. To say Young Rarity wasn't impress would have been an understatment. "A rock?! That's my destiny?! What is your problem, horn? I followed you all the way out here for a rock?!" She shouted. She then groaned in frustration. "Dumb Rock"! She shouted. All of a sudden there was a loud bang from the sky, Young Rarity shrieked and backed away in fear, she looked up to see a multitude of colar admiting from the sky. The force of the explosion also caused the rock to split in two. Young Rarity looked at the rock, and saw that inside of if where many kinds of jewels, and gemestones. Young Rarity smiled she knew what she needed to do. She took many gemestones back home with her, and started putting them on her costumes. Later that night The peformace was a sucess. Everypony loved the costumes Young Rarity's teacher smiled, and Young Rarity's Cutie Mark Appeared. After the story Scootaloo was much more annoyed. "Ugh! These namby-pamby stories aren't getting us any closer to our cutie marks! They're all about finding who you really are and boring stuff like that." She groaned. "Maybe that's what getting a Cutie Mark is about". Apple Bloom stated. Rarity nodded in agreement. "Yes Scootaloo, Apple Bloom is". However Scootaloo didn't want to listen, she wanted to here Rainbow Dash's story. "Come on, girls! We need action! We need Rainbow Dash!" She said leaving the boutique Sweetie Belle following her. Reiner sighed. "She only thinks about action, and not stragety". He said. "Yeah, she thinks the only way to get her Cutie Mark is the cool way, and not the important way". Bertholdt replied. "Well that's just how she is. At least you know that getting your Cutie Mark takes patieces Apple Bloom". Rarity stated. "I know but I still wish I had it, and then I could stop worrying about Diamond Tiara". Apple Bloom replied. "Oh darling you know you don't have to be afraid of Diamond Tiara especialy when you have the friends you do". Rarity said. Apple Bloom smiled. "Thank you Miss Rarity". She stated. "You're most welcome". Rarity replied. "Well we better catch up with the two of them Reiner said. "Yes, have a good day you three". Rarity stated. "Bye Miss Rarity". Apple Bloom waved. Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt left the boutique, and began to search for Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo when all of a sudden Apple Bloom spotted Twilight Sparkle over by the cafe. "Reiner, Bertholdt I see Twilight." She said. Reiner, and Bertholdt looked over, and saw Twilight as well. "Let's go ask her how she got her Cutie Mark"! Apple Bloom said excitedly. Reiner thought for a bit. "Alright". He said. Meanwhile Sweetie Belle turned to see Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom heading towards Twilight. "Hey Scootaloo Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt aren't following us". She said. "What, where are they going"? Scootaloo asked. She then saw them going towards Twilight. "What are they oh they're going to ask Twilight's Cutie Mark Story." "Can we go too I kind of want to here it as well". Sweetie Belle said. Scootaloo just sighed. "Ugh fine". She said as She, and Sweetie Belle went to catch up with their friends. Twilight was sitting at a table when she heard Reiner's voice call out to her. "Twilight." Twilight looked up. "Oh hello Reiner, Bertholdt, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo what can I do for you"? She asked. "Can you tell us how you got your Cutie Mark"? Apple Bloom asked. "My Cutie Mark story, why do you want to know that"? Twilight asked in confusion. "We already heard Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rarity tell their stories, so it only makes sense to hear your's as well". Apple Bloom replied. Twilight smiled. "Of coruse I'll tell you the story of how I got my Cutie Mark". She said. "Yay"! Apple Bloom cheered as Scootaloo groaned. She then took a quick glance at Apple Bloom who gave her a smug grin. Then it hit Scootaloo. Apple Bloom had done this on purpose. "I'm going to have a word with that filly after I hear Rainbow Dash's story". Scootaloo said to herself as Twilight began her story. "As a young filly in Canterlot, I always wanted to go to the Summer Sun Celebration, where Princess Celestia raises the sun. And I saw the most amazing, most wonderful thing I've ever seen." (845) Young Twilight Sparkle pushed her way through a crowd of other ponies. She wanted to get a really good view of Princess Celestia raising the sun. Trumpets sounded, and Princess Celestia walked onto the stage. Young Twilight watched in awe, as Celestia lit up her horn, flew up, and raised the sun. It was there Young Twilight knew she wanted to study magic no matter what. I poured myself into learning everything I could about magic. She narrated. And she did. She read book after book after book. It was then her parents started to take notice of Young Twilight's efforts, and one night while she was studying they came in with a very special suprise for her. My parents decided to enroll me in Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. It was a dream come true! Except for one thing... I had to pass an entrance exam!" Twilight narrated. That entrance exam was to hatch a dragon egg with only magic. "Well Miss Sparkle". One of the teachers asked Young Twilight who only chuckled nervously, she looked to her Mom and Dad for help, and they gave her reassuring smiles. Young Twilight then started to light up her horn in order to hatch the dragon egg, but no matter how hard she tried she just couldn't get the egg to hatch, and the teachers were getting impatient. "We don't have all day". One said. All seemed lost, for Young Twilight. I knew it was the most important day of my life, that my entire future would be affected by the outcome of this day and I was about to blow it!" She narrated. Finally Young Twilight decieded to give up, the egg just wasn't hatching. "I'm sorry I wasted your time". She said sadly. As the teachers began writing on their clipboards Young Twilight just looked down tears begining to fill her eyes when all of a sudden she was startled by the sound of a loud BANG! The bang shocked her so much that a blast admited from her horn hatching the dragon egg, but that wasn't the end. Young Twilight's eyes began to glow, and she started to levitate in the air as more magic bolits of lighting admited from her. The first one hit the teachers causing them to start floating. The second one hit her parents turning them into potted plants. The last one hit Spike causing him to grow much huger then he was. That got Princess Celestia's attention. She went over to see what was going on. She arrived, and gentely put her hoof on Young Twilight's shoulder. This caused Young Twilight to calm down, and everything return to normal. "Twilight Sparkle". Princess Celestia said gentely. Thinking she was in trouble Young Twilight began to apologize. "Oh I'm so sorry I didn't mean..." However Princess Celestia Stopped her. "You have a very special gift. I don't think I've ever come across a unicorn with your raw abilities." Celestia said. This only confused Young Twilight even more. "Huh"? Was all she could muster so Princess Celestia continued. "But you need to learn to tame these abilities through focused study." "Huh"? Young Twilight said again. "Twilight Sparkle, I'd like to make you my own personal protégé here at the school." Young Twilight gave one final "Huh"? "Well"? Asked Princess Celestia. Young Twilight looked to her parents who both nodded their heads yes excitedly. Young Twilight turned to Princess Celestia. "Yes." She said jumping into the air. "One other thing Twilight". Princess Celestia said. "There's more"? Young Twilight asked falling to the ground. Princess Celestia then pointed to Twilight's flank. She looked and saw her cutie mark. "My cutie mark! Yesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyes..." Back in the present Twilight was still jumping around. "Yesyesyesyes". Until Reiner stopped her. "We get it your happy:" He said. Twilight looked around to see others staring at her. "Are you okay"? Asked a pony. Twilight chuckled nervosuly. "Yes". "So that's how you started taken care of Spike"? Apple Bloom asked. Twilight smiled at her. "Yes it as, after he hatched we took him home, and he's been like a little brother to me ever since". Twilight said. "Awwww". Apple Bloom said. "Alright, alright we heard the story, now let's go find Rainbow Dash". Scootaloo said. "See you Twilight". Bertholdt said. "Goodbye". Twilight replied. The girls, along with Bertholdt, and Reiner went through ponyville trying to find Rainbow Dash. Scootaloo was growing more, and more frustrated. Why is this happening, I just wanted to hear Rainbow Dash's Cutie Mark story, but we keep getting stopped, and it's all because Apple Bloom wanted to hear all those boring stories". Scootaloo said to herself. They kept going when Apple Bloom once again got curious. "Hey Reiner, Bertholdt how did you get your Cutie Marks, they look quite interesting considering how similar they look". Apple Bloom said. This actually got both Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo's attention. "Really"? Scootaloo asked. "Yeah". Apple Bloom replied. For example the main part of their Cutie Marks happen to have the same star symbol your Warrior bandana's have". She said to Bertholdt, and Reiner. "However Reiner's cutie mark has a shield I think representing his strength". She said. When Apple Bloom said that Reiner remebered back to the words General Calvi Said about the Armored Titan. "As you can see, The Armored Titan is one that specializes in the hardening abilty. One slam from that body should be able to destroy both walls and gates. As a Titan who will act as Marley's shield and absorb attacks well, Braun's stoic nature fits the role. Apple Bloom then continued by analizng Bertholdt's Cutie Mark. "However Berthodlt's Cutie Mark has what looks like an explosion, but I'm not sure what that means." Apple Bloom said, but Bertholdt did. "The Colossal Titan. It is a god of destruction. We hope that Hoover can handle it. I almost feel sorry for those island devils. That thing is going to show up one day, and start killing them". "So how did you get your Cutie Marks"? Apple Bloom asked. Reiner and Bertholdt both thought back to the year 845. They remebered the parade, Annie, Marcel, Reiner trying to talk to his father, saying goodbye to his mother, Marcel being eaten, and destroying Wall Maria. Finally Reiner spoke. "I got my Cutie Mark after carrying a bunch of heavy logs on my back". He said. "And I got mine after saving some ponies from a burning house which then exploded". Bertholdt added. This amazed the Crusaders, even Scootaloo. "Wait if that happend five years ago, then you two were most likely our age". Apple Bloom stated. "How old are you three"? Reiner asked. "Twelve". The CMCs replied. "Then yeah we were". Reiner said. "Interesting Scootaloo replied. The group then continued on their way to find Rainbow Dash all the while Scootaloo was growing more, and more frustrated. "Ugh! Why don't we ever smash into Rainbow Dash?!" She groaned. All of a sudden they heard the voice of Pinkie Pie. "You're looking for Rainbow Dash?" Apple Bloom, Reiner, Bertholdt, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle turned to see Pinkie Pie in the wagon behind Sweetie Belle wearing her own helemet. "How did she"? Bertholdt began only for Reiner to stop him. "Don't question it Bertholdt, just don't." He said. Bertholdt sighed knowing Reiner was right. Pinkie Pie unaware of Reiner, and Bertholdt's curioisty continued to talk about Rainbow Dash. "If I was her, I'd be at Sugarcube Corner. Of course, if I was anyone, I'd be at Sugarcube Corner. Hey! I have an idea! Wanna go to Sugarcube Corner?" She said. "Well, we're sort of looking for Rainbow Dash, so we can hear how she got her cutie mark." Sweetie Belle explained. This made Pinkie Pie excited. "Cutie mark? Come with me and I'll tell you how I got mine!" She exclaimed. Scootaloo looked at Apple Bloom, who was smilling happily. Clearly she wanted to hear Pinkie Pie's story too. "Oh what the hell, I mean we heard everyone else's stories anyway, might as well hear your's Pinkie Pie". Scootaloo sighed. "All Right"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed happily. (845) "My sisters and I were raised on a rock farm outside of Ponyville. We spent our days working the fields. There was no talking. There was no smiling. There were only rocks". Pinkie Narrated. Young Pinkie herself was looked fairly different to how she normaly looked. Her fur was a darker shade of pink, and her hair was more flat instead of the curly puffy mess it was in the present. As she was moving rocks around, she heard the ringing of a bell. She looked up to see her sisters, and father going into the house for supper, however her father gave her a stern look implying that he wanted her to stay out and continue working. We were in the south field, preparing to rotate the rocks to the east field, when all of a sudden... There was a huge explosion of colors. The once gloomy looking rock farm was now bright thanks to a rainbow that had suddendly appeared. There were birds, bunnies, and other animals as well, Young Pinkie Pie couldn't help but give off a big smile. "I'd never felt joy like that before! It felt so good I just wanted to keep smiling forever! And I wanted everyone I knew to smile too, but rainbows don't come along that often. I wondered, how else could I create some smiles"? Then Young Pinkie Pie got an idea. She knew just what she had to do in order to make her family smile, and experiance the same joy she was feeling. So Young Pinkie Pie worked all throughout the night, never stopping once to rest. Finally when Celestia's sun rose, and the rooster crowed she was done just as her family came out of the house to continue work. "We better harvest the rocks from the south field". Her father stated. All of a sudden the heard loud noises coming from inside the silo. Pinkamena Diane Pie! Is that you"? Her mother asked just as Young Pinkie opened the door. "Mom! I need you and dad and the sisters to come in. Quick!" She said. Unsure of what their daughter wanted the Pie Family followed Young Pinkie Pie inside the silo, and were shocked by what they say. The silo had been decorated wit baloons, and streamers. There was also cake, and other treats as well, and in the middle of it all stood Young Pinkie Pie with a smile on her face. "Surprise! You like it? It's called... a party!" she exclaimed happily. For a while her family just stood there unmoving with shocked looks on their faces. Then their lips started to quiver, it looked like they were about to cry. Young Pinkie Pie noticed this, and became very dissapointed thinking she failed in making her family happy. " Oh. You don't like it". She sighed sadly. But then her familes quivering lips turned into huge smiles. Young Pinkie Pie gasped in delight. "You do like it, I'm so happy". She squeeled as she and her family danced the night away. Young Pinkie Pie's Cutie Mark appeared. Back in the present the gang had just arrived at Sugarcube Corner where Pinkie Pie seemed to have forgotten the story she had told. "And that's how Equestria was found". She said confusing The CMCs. " Wha... huh?" Scootaloo pondered as Pinkie Pie hopped out of the wagon. "Look were here". Apple Bloom said pointing at Sugarcube Corner. "Maybe on the way home I can tell you the story of how I got my Cutie Mark. It's a gem!" Pinkie Pie said as she walked into the bakeary. Scootaloo continued to stare as Sweetie Belle put her hoof on the pegagus shoulder. "Oh come, on she's just being Pinkie Pie". Sweetie Belle said. "That's right, now let's go see if Rainbow Dash is in there". Reiner stated. Him, Bertholdt, and the Crusaders all walked into Sugarcube Corner, and to Scootaloo's delight there stood Rainbow Dash, With Twilight, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack. They had all run into Rainbow Dash, and told her what the Crusaders wanted. Scootaloo couldn't be more happy. "Rainbow Dash you're here"! She exclaimed. Rainbow Dash turned to the Crusaders with a smile on her face. "I hear you're looking for my Cutie Mark story." "You have no idea what I've been through today to hear that story." Scootaloo sighed. "They really wanna know how you got your Cutie Mark". Reiner stated. "Well I'll tell you". Rainbow Dash began (845) It all happened during the race at Flight Camp where I stood alone against all odds to defend Fluttershy's honor. Starting from the moment Young Fluttershy fell off the cloud at the begining of the race. Young Rainbow Dash, and the bullies flew as fast as they could. They went through several hooped shaped clouds, until Young Dumbbell crashed into a pillar taking him out of the race. Now only Young Hoops, and Young Rainbow Dash were lef. I've never flown like before! That freedom was unlike anything I've ever felt! The speed, the adrenaline, the wind in my mane... I liked it... a lot! Rainbow Dash narrarted. Young Rainbow Dash flew through more, and more of the obsetcles, but then Young Hoops decieded to play dirty. He slammed is body into Young Rainbow Dash with all his force knocking her away. Ha! Later Rainbow Crash"! He sneered. That made Young Rainbow Dash really annoyed. There was no way she was going to let him win now. "Hey"! She exclaimed. Young Rainbow Dash quickly flew after Young Hoops. Turns out the only thing I liked more than flying fast... was winning! Young Rainbow Dash flew faster then she had ever flown before. She zipped passed Young Hoops, her adrenline picking up, eyes watering, she wanted to win. Until finally Young Rainbow Dash pulled of the impossilbe. A Sonic Rainboom which helped her win the race. "Most ponies thought that the sonic rainboom was just an old mare's tale. But that day... The day I discovered racing... I proved that the legends were true. I made the impossible happen"! Everyone cheered for Young Rainbow Dash as her Cutie Mark Appeared "And that fillies is how you earn a Cutie Mark". Rainbow Dash stated. "Wooah". The CMCs said in aww. "That was quite the tail". Reiner said. Just then Fluttershy spoke up. "Wait a second. I heard that explosion. And I saw the rainbow too. Rainbow Dash, if you hadn't scared the animals, I never would have learned I could communicate with them and gotten my cutie mark." She stated. "I heard that boom! And right afterwards, there was this amazing rainbow that taught me to smile." Pinkie Pie chimed in "When I got my cutie mark, I saw a rainbow that pointed me home. I bet it was your sonic rainboom!" Applejack realized. "There was an explosion I could never explain when I got my cutie mark." Replied Rarity. "This is uncanny! If that explosion didn't happen when it did, I would have blown my entrance exam. Rainbow Dash, I think you helped me earn my cutie mark too!" Twilight said. "Whoa". Was all Rainbow Dash could muster. All of a sudden Apple Bloom gasped. "Don't you all know what this means. If you all saw that Rainbow then all of you were destian to become friends without even knowing it"! She exclaimed happily. Pinkie Pie gasped. "Apple Bloom's right! We all owe our cutie marks to you Rainbow Dash". she said. "All of us had a special connection before we even met." Fluttershy stated. "We've been BFFs forever and we didn't even know it"! Rarity smiled with tears in her eyes. "Come here Ya'll!" Applejack said as the girls pulled each other in for a hug. "AWW They said. Twilight then looked at the stalions. "Reiner, Bertholdt get in here". "But we didn't see the Rainboom". Bertholdt said. "That doesn't matter, you still got your Cutie Marks the same year as us right"? Applejack asked. Reiner and Bertholdt nodded. "Then come on". Pinkie Pie demanded. Reiner and Bertholdt quickly joined the others. "I'm so glad we're frineds". Said Fluttershy. "I love you guys". Said Pinkie Pie. Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle couldn't help but smile at this. "Aww". They said, but Scootaloo found it disgusting, "Ewww! Give me a break. Come on, Crusaders! Maybe we just need to try zip lining again". But Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo just pulled her in for a hug. "Hey how about a song"? Fluttershy suggested. Everyone cheered in delight, except for Scootaloo. "Nooooooo"! She cried! Back at the Golden Oak Libary Twilight was resiting her latest letter to Princess Celestia. Dear Princess Celestia, Today I learned something amazing. Everypony everywhere has a special magical connection with her friends, maybe even before she's met them. If you're feeling lonely and you're still searching for your true friends, just look up in the sky. Who knows? Maybe you and your future best friends are all looking at the same rainbow. Spike looked at Twilight in disgust after he heard the message. "Gross! When did you get so cheasey"? He asked. Twilight just rolled her eyes. "Just write it Spike". She demanded. Spike sighed, and did as he was told. Elsewhere at Sweet Apple Acres Apple Bloom sitting on the porch of her family's house. She had wanted some fresh air so had asked Applejack to help her get outside and into the swing that was on the porch. She smiled as the wind blew in her silk red hair, Winonna was by her side as well. Everything was peaceful until Apple Bloom heard the voice of Scootaloo. "Apple Bloom"! Scootaloo called out. Apple Bloom looked to see the pegasus filly trotting up to her. "Hey Scootaloo what's up"? Apple Bloom asked as she grabbed her crutch, and got up. "Listen I wanted to apologize". Scootaloo stated. This confused Apple Bloom. "For what"? She asked. "For calling Applejack's story sappy". "Oh". Apple Bloom said realizing what Scootaloo was going on about. "Reiner told me how it made you feel after we all left Sugarcube Corner. I'm sorry for that, I was so focused on wanting to hear Rainbow Dash's story that I let myself forgot how senstive you are when it comes to your parents". Scootaloo said. Apple Bloom smiled. "It's okay, and I'm sorry too". She said. Now it was Scootaloo's turn to be confused. "Why are you sorry". She asked. "I was kind of intentionnly making us take longer to hear Rainbow Dash's story". Apple Bloom admitted. "Kind of as karma for what you said about Applejack's story." Scootaloo just smiled. The two of them hugged each other as Scootaloo helped Apple Bloom back onto the porch swing. Scootaloo then climbed onto the swing with her, and they sat talking until the stars came out. "So anyways". Scootaloo was saying. However she stopped when she noticed that Apple Bloom had fallen asleep on her lap. Scootaloo couldn't help but smile as she got up, and went inside to get Applejack who later came out, and put Apple Bloom to bed. Preview When Twilight adopts an owl who begins to help her with her daily routines Spike fears he is going to be replaced. So he tries everything in his power to prevent Twilight from getting rid of him. Next Episode. Owl's Well That Ends Well Author's Note Characters in order of Appearance. Apple Bloom Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Bertholdt Hoover/Colossal Titan Bright Macintosh (Pictured+Flashback) Pear Butter (Pictured+Flashback) Braeburn (Pictured) Scootaloo Sweetie Belle Applejack Granny Smith (Flashback) Big Macintosh (Flashback) Count Casear (Flashback) Uncle Orange (Flashback) Aunt Orange (Flashback) Tall Order (Flashback) Dane Tee Dove (Flashback) Fluttershy Hoops (Flashback) Dumbell (Flashback) Score (Flashback) Rainbow Dash Twinkleshine Sea Swirl (Flashback) Cozy Glow Rarity Samatha Cheerliee (Flashback) Derpy Hooves (Flashback) Minnuette Ametyst Star (Flashback) Twilight Sparkle Lyra Heartstrings (Flashback) Shoesine (Flashback) Princess Celestia (Flashback) Nightlight (Flashback) Twilight Velvet (Flashback) Crystal Clear (Flashback) Arpeggio (Flashback) Top Marks (Flashback) Spike Berry Punch Caramel Cherry Fizzle Lemon Hearts Calvi (Flashback) Theo Magath (Flashback) Marcel Galliard (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Karina Braun (Flashback) Reiner's Father (Flashback) Ymir (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Sweetie Drops Daisy Godlengrape Pinkie Pie Marble Pie (Flashback) Limestone Pie (Flashback) Igneous Rock Pie (Flashback) Cloudy Quratz (Flashback) Episode 32: Owl's Well That Ends Well: Gala arc Part 25Evening at the Golden Oak Library. Spike, and Twilight Sparkle were very exicted for that night there was to be a very special metor shower, and all there friends would be watching. Spike gather a blanket, and telescope and placed them into a red wagon. "This metor shower is going to be amazing"! Twilight exclaimed happily. "Awesome"! Spike said with same entuisasma as he put some fruits into the wagon. "You know, this shower only happens once every 100 years." Twilight stated. "A centennial celebration!" Spike replied. As he put more stuff into the wagon. "We better get a move on". Twilight stated. Spike nodded in agreement. "Don't wanna be late". He said as he put the last item into the wagon, a pitcher of punch. "There". Twilight smiled at her assiant. "Spike, did you grab my quill and ink?" She asked. "Check"! Spike confirmed. Twilight smiled. "Scrolls"? She asked. "Check! I've also packed a telescope, apples, bananas, fruit punch, and my freshly baked homemade triple-decker nut-crazy vanilla cream cookies"! Spike stated. Twilight giggled. "I can see that. Once again you've read my mind, Spike. And that is why you are my number one assistant." She told him. "I'm sorry. I didn't hear you". Spike said. He actually did hear her he just wanted her to say it again. "That is why you are my number one assistant." Twilight said again, but Spike still wanted to hear it once more. "Didn't quite catch that". He teased. "I said." Twilight began, but then she giggled realizing what Spike was doing. "Come on, let's get going. Wait! I almost forgot! I wanna bring the "Astronomical Astronomer's Almanac to All Things Astronomy"." Twilight stated. Spike looked at her in confusion. "The Astronomo-lomo homono what"? He didn't know what that book was, but if Twilight wanted then he would find it for her. So he began searching as Twilight explained to him what the book was. "You know that really old big blue book on stars, moons, planets, the universe...?" She said. Spike then found the book she was looking for. "Right. Check". He said. But before he could get down, and give the book to Twilight, he suddendly sneezed burning the book with his fire breath. Not wanting Twilight to be upset he quickly hid the book in the back of the shelf. "Hey what's taking my number one assistant so long". Spike heared Twilight's voice call down to him. Spike, and Twilight made their way to the meeting spot. Twilight was a little disaponited that she didn't have her book with her though. "I was sure I put the astronomer's guide back. The book would have helped me identify different planets and stars tonight." She lamented. Spike began to sweat nervously, he hadn't told her what really happened to the book. "Well... maybe someone borrowed it. Besides, you don't need that book. You can already name all the planets and stars, 'cause you're super smart and astronomically awesome!" He said reassuringly. Twilight smiled. "Thanks Spike. You're quite the flatterer". She told him. "Yeah. I'm a sweet talker". Spike said. "And number one assistant". Twilight stated. "Check". Spike said as he began to set up the blanket and treats he packed. While Spike was doing that Twilight walked over to her friends. "Hey guys". She greeted. "Hello Twilight". Reiner said as she came up to the group. "Did Spike and I miss anything"? Twilight asked. "No, you arrived right on time". Bertholdt reassured her. Twilight sighed in relief. "Oh good." She stated as she looked at all her friends. "Apple Bloom, you made it"! Twilight said happily seeing the young filly. She was of course being supported by Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "There ani't no way I'm letting her miss out on something like this, It's a once in a lifetime oppurtionty". Applejack stated. "You're right, there's no way you're gonna wanna miss this". Twilight stated just as Spike finshed setting everything up. Rainbow Dash then helped herself to an apple. "Wow, Twilight! You're lucky to have such a rad assistant. I wish I had someone to do whatever I told them." Rainbow Dash said. Hearing That Scootaloo's ear's perked up, but then she looked at Sweetie Belle, as both of them were helping Apple Bloom stand, but Apple Bloom just nodded and smiled reassuringley. "Don't worry I got her". Sweetie Belle said. Scootaloo smiled, and ran over to Rainbow Dash. "Ooh! Ooh! Me! Me! Me! I'll do whatever you want, Rainbow Dash!" She said. Rainbow Dash smiled. " Oh yeah, pipsqueak? How about taking out the trash?" She asked. "Yes Ma'am"! Scootaloo saulted. "That filly will do anything for Rainbow Dash". Reiner stated as the others came over. "Do we have Spike to thank again for this amazing spread"? Rarity asked. "We sure do". Twilight confirmed. "Spike you're so amazing being able to make all this". Apple Bloom complemeted. Spike blushed. "Oh come on stop you're embarssing me". He said. Sorry, Spike but we can't help it, this is amazing work". Reiner told him. "Yeah this is wonderful". Bertholdt replied. Spike smiled. "Yeah I suppose it is". He agreed "Spike this is so wonderful that I had to make a little bow tie for you". Rarity stated "Aww thanks Rarity". Spike said. He then turned to Twilight". You're Turn to say something". He said smuggley, however Twilight just rolled her eyes. "That's enough Spike". She told him. Spike chuckled nervously in response and rubbed the back of his head. "Hey everypony the show's started". Sweetie Belle pointed out. The Mane Eight, Spike, and Cutie Mark Crusaders all rushed over to watch the show, all of them we're amazed by how wonderful it was. After the show was over, everyone was laughing, and having fun while Pinkie Pie was helping herself to the cookies Spike had brought. "These cookies are amazing". She said. "I know, who made them"? Asked Bertholdt. "Spike did, he worked very hard". Twilight stated. "Speaking of Spike, can you bring us some more punch"? She asked, but the baby dragon didn't respond. This confused Twilight. "Spike"? she called looking for him, but then she saw that he had fallen asleep in the punch bowl. Everyone smiled at the sight. "Oh, poor little thing." Rarity cooed. "Aww... He's worked himself to the bone." Twilight moaned. "And now the punch has been... "spiked"! Pinkie Pie joked. Everyone laughed as the stars shown brightly in the night sky. "Welp it's getting late, I think it's best we head back home". Reiner stated. "Reiner's right". Twilight yawned. "Goodnight everypony". They all said their goodbyes and went back to their respetcive homes. Twilight returned back to the Golden Oak Libary with Spike asleep on her back. She couldn't help but smile at how how peaceful he looked. Quietly opening the door, she gentely walked up the staris and put him to bed. "Goodnight, Spike. Sweet dreams, number one assistant." She said before quietly going downstairs to read up some more info about comets. "The Study of Comets. Comets are small, irregularly shaped bodies that are made of nonvolatile grains and frozen gases. They..." All of a sudden Twilight was stopped by a creaking sound. "Huh"? She said in confusion. She step outside and looked around but saw nothing, so she decieded to go back in and continue reading her book. ".have body structures that are fragile and diverse..." All of sudden she thought she saw something fly by the window, so she opened it. However that move caused the wind to blow in, and blow her research out the window, and far away. "Damnit"! Twilight cursed as she rushed back inside and began panicing. "Oh this is a job for Spike. If only he was awake". She exclaimed. Just then Twilight heard a hooting noise. She looked up and saw an owl sitting on her desk, with her research in it's mouth. The owl put the scroll down, and was about to fly away when Twilight called out to it. "Wait! Don't go! Don't be afraid." The owl stopped and looked at Twilight. "Thank you for returning my scroll". She said. The owl hooted as if to say "You're welcome. Just then another gust of wind came blowing in causing the owl to shiver. "God it's cold out tonight". Twilight stated. She then looked at the owl, and an idea flew into her head. "Gosh, it's cold tonight. Say, would you like to relax in here and keep me company while I work?" She asked. The owl thoguht for a bit, and decieded that he would take Twilight up on her offer. Twilight smiled and continued reading as the owl perched itself onto the rack next to her desk. "Now, where was I? Oh, yes. "...fragile and diverse with a surrounding cloud of material called a coma, that grows in size and brightness as the comet approaches the sun..." The next morning the sun shone brightly in Spike's face. Groaning he groggalily opened his eyes. "Huh"? He said in confusion. He then realized what happened and got up in a panic. " Waah! I overslept! I know it's already ten, but I'm scaly-tailed and bright-eyed and ready to work twice as fast!" He stated as he ran down the stairs calling out to Twilight. Oh please, don't be upset, Twilight! And what do you want for breakfast? Oatmeal? How about a sunflower smoothie? Grass pancakes?" He asked her, but Twilight just gave him a soft smile. "Oh Spike don't worry". she reassured. This confused Spike. "But, my morning chores". He tried to remind Twilight but she just smiled and walked over to collect sime items off of her desk. " It's okay. Owlowiscious did them for you." She told him confusing Spike even more. "Who"? He asked. "He's our new junior assistant. He's gonna help out with your chores so you won't be so tired all the time." She explained. This made Spike a little upset. "Wha... Wh... What do we need a junior assistant for? I'm not tired. I do fine on my own. I don't need sleep, I..." He tried to say, but Twilight stopped him. "Spike, don't worry. He's just here to help out a little. Now, I have to go out, so why don't you introduce yourself to Owlowiscious? He's in the library." She stated. "Worried? Do I look worried? I'm not worried. Who's worried?" Spike stated as Twilight left. Once Twilight was gone Spike went down to the library to see who this Owlowiscious guy was. "Hello"? He quietly called out. Owlowiscious, who was sitting by the window heard Spike's voice, and turned his head 360 degrees without moving his body in order to face the baby dragon. This startled Spike a bit. "Whoa! Dude, that's creepy." Spike stated before quickly composing himself and walking over to Owlowiscious. "Uh... Hi there! I'm Spike. I'm sure Twilight has told you all about me." Owlowiscious just stared at Spike before simply saying. "Hoo". This confused Spike. "Uh, Spike? You know, assistant number one?" Spike said. However Owlowiscious once gain responed with. "Hoo"? Now Spike was getting frustrated. "I'm Spike! And who are you? What are you?" He asked. "Hoo". Owlowiscious replied. "Who"? Spike said in confusion. "Hoo". Owlowiscious replied again. "I thought your name was Owlowiscious". Spike said. "Hoo"? Owlowiscious replied. Spike shook his head, and composed himself. Locking eyes with Owlowiscious Spike wanted to make sure the bird knew one thing, and one thing alone. "Okay, "Who", "Owlowiscious", whatever. I'm Spike, okay? Look! All you need to know is that I'm number one and you're number two. Got it?" He said. Owlowiscious just said. "Hoo". Spike's eye twitched. "So, a man of mystery, huh? I'm keeping my eye on you! I've got eyes in the back of my head too, you know." Spike said just as he slamed into the door. "Well, not really, but... you know what I mean!" He stated as he opened the door, and walked outside, slamming it in the process. "That bird is out for my job. He wants to be number one. I'll prove to Twilight that I deserve to be number one. Not Freaky Feathers over there. I won't let him have my job if it's the last thing I do"! Spike thought to himself. Currently Publicly Avalablie Information Meteor Shower. A rare set spectacular event. It happens every 100 years, and is a once in a life time opportunity to witness. Twilight was walking through town having just finished her errands, and was heading back to the Libaray when she saw Reiner, and Bertholdt, and walked up to them "Hi guys". She greeted causing them to turn around. "Hello Twilight, how are you today"? Reiner asked. "I'm doing wonderful, I just brought some new scrolls to write, oh and I made a new friend last night."Twilight stated. "A new friend"? Asked Bertholdt. "Yep". Twilight replied. "Well what's their name, and what kind of pony are they"? Reiner asked. This made Twilight giggle which confused Reiner and Bertholdt. Twilight saw their confused faces and quickly explained. "My new friend isn't a pony he's an owl, and his name is Owlowiscious". Twilight replied. This intrigued the two stalions. "Really, and how did you and this Owlowiscious meet"? Reiner asked. "I was working on research about comments, the wind blew my notes away, and Owlowiscious got them back for me. It was windy, and chilly outside so I let him stay inside, and he helped me out while Spike was asleep. "Ah I get it, since Owls are nocturnal Owlowiscious can help you at night when Spike is asleep". Reiner pointed out. "Exactlay". Twilight stated. "Hey do you guys want to meet Owlowiscious"? "Of course". Reiner stated. Twilight beamed brightly. "Oh, I've got to tell the others, they're going to want to meet Owlowiscious too". Twilight exclaimed. "Especialy Fluttershy". She chuckled. So Twilight went to all of her friends houses to ask them if they wanted to meet Owlowiscious. Natuarlly all of them said yes. "Why of course darling. Sweetie Belle, and I would love to meet your knew friend". Said Rarity. "A pet owl sounds tottaly awesome". Stated Rainbow Dash "Sure, Apple Bloom, and I will meet the fella". Applejack replied. "I'd love to meet your pet Owl". Scootaloo said. "Uh. Yes I wanna meet Owlowiscious"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed excitedly. Fluttershy however seemed to be even more excited then Pinkie Pie. Was that even possible. "You have a pet owl"?! She exclaimed before being to ask a million questions. "Whatkindofowlisitwheredidyoufindhimwhatcolorishehowmannyfeathersdoeshehavecanhemovehishead360degrees" Twilight put her hoof up to Fluttershy's mouth to calm her down. "Come over to my place, and you can see for yourself". She stated to Fluttershy who nodded her head, though she was still very excited that Twilight had a new pet. Back at the Golden Oak Libarby everyone was admired by Owlowiscious. "Oh, what a fantastical, flufflicious feathery little friend! I'm... hooked!" Pinkie Pie joked causing everyone minus Spike to laugh. "He's just wonderful". Fluttershy admired. "He's just wonderful". Spike mocked causing everyone to look up at him. "Uh yes. Wonderfu. "He's quite... the charmer." Spike said quickly composing himself. The others just stared at Spike for a bit before going back to admiring Owlowiscious. "So he just came into your house and helped you out"? Reiner asked. "Yep". Twilight confirmed. "He's adorable". Apple Bloom cooed causing Owlowiscious to blush. "Thank you Apple Bloom". Twilight said. This caused Applejack to chuckle a bit. "You know Apple Bloom's always wanted an exoctic pet herself, and I keep telling her that when she's a bit older she can get the pet she wants." "Really, what kind of pet would that bit"? Asked Bertholdt. "A wolf". Applejack replied. "I should have guessed. After all you do have an interesting facsnation with wolves." Scootaloo replied as Apple Bloom's face turned bright red with embarassment. "Ummm..... Weren't we here to see Owlowiscious"? Apple Bloom asked trying to change the topic back to the owl. Everyone nodded there heads, and went back to talking about Twilight's new pet owl. Now it was Rarity's turn to speak up. "And Owlowiscious is just such a star I just had to make this little bow for you. With Sweetie Belle's help of course". Rarity stated as she present a bow that was identical to the one she gave Spike the night of the meator shower. When Spike saw that his anger grew that he opened the window, climbed back inside, and slammed the window shut in a fit of rage as everyone looked on in confusion. "What's he all saddle sore about?" Applejack asked. "He's probably just jealous of Owlowiscious." Rainbow Dash theorized. "What would he have to be jealous about"? Asked Twilight. "Well maybe Spike feels threatened or worried that Owlowiscious will replace him." Fluttershy replied causing Twilight to look at her in shock. "Replace him? Hah! That's crazy! Spike knows he can't be replaced." She stated. "Are you sure about that Twilight, maybe you should let him know before something happens". Reiner warned. "I don't need to tell him Reiner, because Spike knows that he will never be replaced". Twilight said with full confidance. However inside the libarby Reiner, and Fluttershy's concerns were comming to be as Spike stomped down the stairs. "They're trying to replace me! I better step it up and make sure that Twilight and Owlowiscious know that I'm still number one! He thought to himself just as Twilight and Owlowiscious came back into the house. Twilight then walked over to her desk. "Hey, Spike! Can you fetch me that book called "Two-headed Myth—" "Mythological Mysteries!" I know where it is." Spike stated as he went to look for the book. However he was stopped when he heard Twilight say. "Thanks, Owlowiscious. Hey, Spike, no worries. Owlowiscious flew up and got the book for me." Then Twilight realized she probably needed another book as well. "Oh, and gee! I guess I need "Ferrets of Fairyland" too." Owlowiscious flew up and grabbed the book that just so happened to be in the pile Spike was standing on. "Hey! Whoa! Whoa!" Spike yelped. "Climb down from there before you fall." Twilight told Spike, but unfourtnely he did fall, and he was pretty annoyed." Twilight was writing in her journal, when the tip of her quill snapped off. "Shoot". she cursed. As if he was waiting for some kind of single Spike appeared to help Twilight, and proove that he was better then Owlowiscious. "Yes Ma'am"! He saluted. "My last writing quill. It's broken." Twilight said. "Never fear! Spike, your number one assistant, is here!" Spike stated eagerly as he began to search the house. "Quill... Quill... Where is it? Not here... Quill... Quill, where is it...?" He muttered to himself as he searched the treehouse for a quil, even walking in on Owlowisicous in the shower. "Hoo". The owl said. "Ugh where am I gonna get a quil"? Spike question. Decieding he wasn't going to find one in the libary Spike went out to see if he could find a quill in town as Twilight called out to him. "Spike, wait! Wait!" The first location Spike went to was Quills and Sofas. However when he got there Davenport had some very unfourtune news for him. They had no quills "But the store is called "Quills and Sofas". You only sell two things!" Spike complained. "Sorry Junior. All outta quills until Monday. Need a sofa?" Davenport ask. Spike just groaned. Next Spike went to Sugarcube Corner. He told Pinkie Pie he needed a quill. "I swore I had one here somewhere." She said bringing Spike's hopes up. However what Pinkie Pie brought back wasn't a quill it was a quince. "Ah, here it is! A quince!" "Not a quince. A quill!" Spike said. "Right. A quail? A quilt! A quesadilla? Aha! A quiche!" Pinkie Pie said pulling out a bunch of random items until Spike had enough. "Not a quiche. A quill!" Spike told Pinkie Pie making sure to say it very carefully. "Nope. Sorry all out of Quills". Pinkie Pie stated. "Shoot". Spike sighed as he ate the quiche. Spike continued on until he came across Sweet Apple Acres. "Perhapes I can get a quill from a chicken". He thought to himself. Spike slowly crept up to the chicken coup. To his luck there happened to be one chicken out of the coup. Spike carefully snuck up behind it, however it noticed him coming and ran off forcing Spike to give chase. "Come on, chicken! Here, chicky-chicky-chicky! Here, chick-chick-chick-chicky! Come here! Ugh! Come here!" He shouted. The chicken ran until it saw Apple Bloom coming out of the house, and ran over to her. "Hey now, what in the world is the matter with you". Apple Bloom asked the panicked bird. "COME BACK HERE"! Spike shouted as he ran over to the two of them. "Spike why are you chasing one of our chickens? You scared him nearly half to death". Apple Bloom said sternly. Spike looked down and sighed. "I'm sorry Apple Bloom, it's just that Twilight's quill broke, and I want to get her a new one so she doesn't replace me with Owlowiscious". He explained. "Okay well first off a chicken's feather is too small to be a quill, but Spike Twilight's not going". However Apple Bloom was intterupted by Spike". "Well then where can I get one? Tell me Apple Bloom please he said begging". "Careful! You know my leg is still broken right"? Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Sorry". Spike stated "But I really need a quill". He told her. Realizing that Spike most likely wasn't going to listen even if she told him Twilight wasn't going to replace him Apple Bloom sighed. "Try asking Reiner, and Bertholdt. Maybe they'll have one". Apple Bloom told him. Hearing that Spike lept up in excitment. "Thanks Apple Bloom"! He stated as he ran off to Reiner, and Bertholdt's house. "Spike"! Apple Bloom called out causing him to turn around. "Don't let your jealousy get the best of you"! She told him. "I'm not jealous". Spike replied as he ran off. Apple Bloom just sighed as Applejack came out. "I'm worried Applejack, I'm afraid Spike might do something he'll regret later". Apple Bloom told her older sister. "Well let's just hope he sees that Twilight isn't trying to replace him". Applejack stated. "I still don't understand why your so desprete for a quill". Reiner stated as he pulled one out of a drawer and handed it to Spike". "Because Twilight's quill broke, and she needed a new one." Spike replied. "But couldn't you have just used one of Owlowicious's feathers"? Asked Bertholdt. "No"! Spike snapped. "I'm going to proove to Twilight that I am her only number one assiastant and that she doesn't need the stingy Owlowicious to help her". He stated firmly. "Spike Twilight isn't going to replace you". Reiner told him, however his words fell on deaf ears as Spike ran off with the Quill. "He's not going to listen to reason". Bertholdt stated. "Yeah. Well let's just hope he doesn't do anything stupid". Reiner replied. Spike arrived back at the libary in great tripumh. "Spike to the rescue"! He exclaimed excitedly. However his "victory" was short lived when Twilight turned to him "Oh, Spike. I was calling out for you when you were turning this place upside down. Owlowiscious gave me one of his feathers to use as a quill." She stated. Spike's eye twitched. "That's just great. Perfect! Sweet! I think I'll just, uh... finish up the rest of my chores! Or did Owlowiscious already do them?" He asked. "Oh, no no. There are quite a lot of them." Twilight told him. "Well, that's fine. Because I can just stay up all night and finish–" However running around town all day had drained all of Spike's energy that he fell right asleep on the stairs. Twilight sighed. "Poor Spike. He'll come around. He's genuinely a good little guy." She told Owlowiscious as they let him sleep. The next morning Spike was awoken by a thud. He opened his eyes, and to his horror he saw the book he had burned the other day sitting infront of him, and Twilight looking down on him very crossly. " Spike. What is this? You said this book was missing. Well, Owlowiscious found it right where it belongs, but like this. How did it get this way?" She demaned. Spike stammered as he tried to explain. " Uh... Well, um... You see, I... I just didn't wanna disappoint you and, uh... Have you ever seen a dragon sneeze?" He asked. "I've seen a dragon lie! I'm very disappointed in you Spike". Twilight stated as she walked away. Spike glared angrily at Owlowiscious. "You set me up! Well, two can play that game." He stated. "Hoo"! Owlowiscious replied. "Not "who"! Two! Urgh!" Spike groaned. Outside Twilight walked across town looking glum. Now she wasn't actually upset because Spike destroyed the book, infact she new it had to have been an accident, but he lied to her about it, and that's what bothered her. A few feet away Reiner noticed Twilight and walked over to her. "Hey, what's up Twilight". He asked? Twilight looked up at him and smiled. "Hey Reiner, I'm just worried about Spike". Twilight replied. "How come"? Reiner asked. "Well I he accidentdly burned one of my books, and I yelled at him for lying to me about it, I just hope he doesn't take it too hard". Twilight replied. "I'm sure he won't". Reiner stated, I mean he's just a baby dragon what's the worst he could do"? Reiner asked. Twilight chuckled. "Yeah, you're right". She replied as she and Reiner walked off and continued talking. However unbeknowst to them Spike had left the libary, and was too walking through town. "Owlowiscious is out to take my place, I just know it! I've gotta stop him. But how?" He said to himself. All of a sudden a little mouse scampered out infront of him. Just then an Idea flew into Spike's brain. "Owl's eat mice, all I have to do is make it look like Owlowiscious ate a helpless little feild mouse, and then Twilight will have to get rid of him". He said. Then he put on a costume that made him look like an old timy villian complete with a black hat, cape, and mustache. "Muahahaha!" He laughed. The first part of his plan was to get a mouse. Now Spike knew he couldn't get a real mouse, so he opted for the next best thing. Waiting behind Carosouel Boutique Spike watched until Rarity opened the door, and walked out with her cat. "Come along, Opal. Let's hurry up and get to Fluttershy's tea party." She said. Once they were gone Spike snuck up to the windows. He had to make sure Sweetie Belle wasn't there either, Once he looked through all the windows, and saw that the cost was infact clear he snuck in. Once inside Spike looked around until he found exactlay what he was looking for, a mouse toy. Spike went up and grabbed in grinning devilshly. "So lifelike. And when Twilight discovers it shredded up on her floor, she'll think mouse-eating Owlowiscious is to blame. And I'll be number one... again! Muhahaha!" He laughed and left the Boutique. However once he was outside he was spotted by Apple Bloom who was giving him a confused look. "Spike, what are you doing with Opal's toy mouse"? She asked. "Oh uh, Sweetie Belle let me borrow it for something I'm doing". Spike tried to lie, but Apple Bloom saw right through it. "Sweetie Belle is with her parents today, and I know Rarity didn't let you borrow it since I saw her heading to Fluttershy's a few momments ago." She informed him. Spike sighed. "Well if you must now, I'm going to set up that damn bird, and make Twilight think he killed a real mouse, and then she'll get rid of him once and for all!" He exclaimed. He then looked up at Apple Bloom who had a horrified look on her face. "That's wrong! You can't do that to Owlowiscious he's Twilight's pet, and she loves him"! Apple Bloom exclaimed "Exactaly! She loves, him, and not me. She's trying to replace me, and I refuse to let that happen"! Spike snapped. "SPIKE"! Apple Bloom screamed causing him to look up. "That's not true! None of what you are saying is true, Twilight will never replace you! You are letting your jealousy get the better of you, and it's making you think irrationally"! Apple Bloom argued. "You don't know anything". Spike said under his breath. "W what"? Apple Bloom asked confused. "YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT'S IT'S LIKE! YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT'S LIKE TO BE REPLACED, OR BE UNLOVED"! Spike shouted. "Spike please stop. You're scaring me". Apple Bloom pleaded eyes filling with tears. "AND YOU KNOW WHY YOU DON'T KNOW ANYTHING, BECAUSE YOU. DON'T. HAVE. PARENTS"! Spike yelled. He stood there for a few moments when all of sudden he felt a sharp pain strike him in the side of the cheak. He fell to the ground hard. He looked up and saw Apple Bloom staring at him angrily with tears streaming down her face. Spike then realized she had just slapped him as he held his cheak. "HOW DARE YOU"! Apple Bloom screamed. "YOU HAD NO RIGHT TO BRING UP MY PARENTS, ALL I TRIED TO DO WAS HELP YOU REALIZE THE MISTAKE YOU'RE MAKING, AND YOU SAY SOMETHING LIKE THAT"! Apple Bloom shouted before she coloapsed to the ground, and began sobbing. Spike looked around, there were quite a few witness. Some glared at Spike, while others went to comfort Apple Bloom who was still crying. Spike groaned, got up, and walked away. "Whatever, I have an owl to frame". He muttered to himself. Arriving back at the libarby Spike grabbed a nearby pillow, and a bottle of ketchup. He then placed the toy mouse on the floor, squrited the ketchup on it the the surronding area, and started throwing feathers from the pillow all around, laughing like a madman as he did. Unfourtently for Spike, before he could finish he felt himself bump into something. Spike turned and looked up to see Twilight standing right behind him, with Owlowiscious. Thinking quickly Spike immeidtdley took off his coustme, and began to act all innocent. "That poor little field mouse! Torn to pieces! It must have been Owlowiscious! You know, since owls eat, you know, mice. What a terrible, terrible bird! He must be punished!" He declared before looking up at Twilight. "Right"? Twilight glared at Spike before speaking. "Spike! I don't know what upsets me more—that you deliberately tried to set up Owlowiscious, or that you actually thought this pathetic attempt would work! You've let your jealousy get the best of you, Spike. I am truly disappointed. This is not the Spike I know and love." She scolded befoe walking out of the house with Owlowiscious. Tears filled Spike's eyes. "She... She doesn't love me anymore." He whimpered. Later that day Twilight, and Owlowiscious returned to the libabry. "Spike we need to talk". Twilight called out. However she got no response. "Spike? Where are you"? Twilight asked as she searched the house. "Where could that dragon be"? Twilight wondered She then went up to his room where she saw all of his stuff was gone. That was when she realized what had happened. "Oh no, Spike must have run away. He really thinks I want to replace him! I need to find him"! Twilight declared as she ran out of the libabry. "I'll see if Applejack has seen him". She said as she ran off to Sweet Apple Acres. Arrving at Applejack's house Twilight was about to knock on the door when she heard what sounded like singing. She followed the voice to an area she had never scene before. It was like a magical enchanted forest. Their was a small lake, blue and violet flowers everywhere, and the way the trees blocked the sun made it seem like it was nighttime instead of day. Twilight looked around, and spotted Apple Bloom. She was standing the best she could with her leg. It was when Twilight relaized that she was the one singing. Os iusti meditabitur sapientiam, Et lingua eius loquetur iudicium. Beatus vir qui suffert tentationem, Quoniam cum probatus fuerit accipiet coronam vitae. Kyrie, fons bonitatis Kyrie, ignis divine, eleison O quam sancta, quam serena quam benigna, quam amoena esse Virgo creditur O quam sancta, quam serena, quam benigna, quam amoena O castitatis lilium Once Apple Bloom was finished, she turned and found Twilight standing there. She gasped in shock. "Miss Twilight, what are you doing here"? She asked. "Well I came to find your sister, but then I heard you're voice, which first of all that was amazing, but secondly what is this place?" She asked. "This is my sercet area I come too when I want to be alone. Nopony knows about it, not even Applejack or Big Mac, or Granny Smith". Apple Bloom stated. Twilight gave Apple Bloom a knowing nod. "I won't tell anyone about this, not even Applejack". Twilight said firmly. Apple Bloom smiled knowing she could trust Twilight. "Now can you help me"? Twilight asked. Apple Bloom nodded. "Sure, what's wrong". "Have you scene Spike"? Twilight asked. Apple Bloom turned away. "I did a few hours ago, he had stolen a toy mouse, and was planning to use it to frame Owlowscious". Apple Bloom told Twilight. Twilight sighed. "Yeah, I caught him in the act, before he could finish." Apple Bloom looked up at Twilight. "I'm sorry, I tried to stop him, but he yelled at me". Apple Bloom told Twilight what Spike had said to her. Twilight was shocked and gave Apple Bloom a soft hug. "I'm so sorry he said that you." Twilight stated. "It's okay, I'm sure he was just upset, I mean he still thinks you want to replace him". Apple Bloom stated. Twilight sighed. "I know, he ran away, and I'm really worried about him". Apple Bloom gasped in shock. "Oh no! I'm sorry I didn't see him after he yelled at me, but I hope you find him. He's such a little dragon, and it would be awful if something happened to him". Apple Bloom stated with worry in her voice. "I know, which is why I have to find him, but I don't know where to look". Twilight replied. Apple Bloom thought for a few moments. "Try the Everfree Forest". Apple Bloom said. "You're right! Thanks Apple Bloom"! Twilight stated as she set off to find Spike. "Twilight"! Apple Bloom called out. "Yeah Apple Bloom"! Twilight asked. "Make sure you tell Spike I forgive him"! Apple Bloom said. "I will"! Twilight repled. Twilight across town, she kept running until she came to Reiner, and Bertholdt's house. She knocked franticly on the door, until Reiner opened it with a confused look on his face. "Twilight? What's going on"? He asked. "ReinerSpikeranawayhetriedtoframeowlowisciousandIcaughthimandwhenIgothomehewasgoneandIlookedeverywherebutIcantfindhimand" Twilight began to say all at once only for Reiner to stop her. "Twilight, slow down, take a breath, and start over". Twilight did what Reiner said too, and told him what had happened. "You guys we're right about Spike being jealous. Eariler I caught him trying to set up Owlowiscious by trying to make it seem like he killed a mosue". Reiner gasped in shock. "I knew it was bad, but I didn't think he snoop that low". He stated. "When I wanted to talk to him about it he wasn't home. I can only assume he ran away, and I need your's and Bertholdt's help to find him, please Reiner"! Twilight begged. "Of course Bertholdt, and I will help you find Spike" Reiner stated. "Right Bertholdt"? "You bet, I'll help however I can". Bertholdt replied. "Thanks you guys". Twilight smiled as the four of them set off to find Spike. Meanwhile Spike was wondering through the Everfree Forest feeling misarble. "Twilight hates me. I'm cold, hungry, tired and lonely. Could it get any worse?" He asked. All of a sudden there was a sound of thunder, and soon it started raining. "I guess that's a yes". Spike stated sarcasticaly. Fourtently Spike spoted a cave where he could stay dry. Walking towards he slowy peared inside. "Hello? Hello"? He quietly called out. When no one answered, and another clap of thunder happened Spike rushed inside. He looked around, and then he's eyes spotted something wonderful. it was a whole pile of delicous tasty gemstones. "What is that? If this is what running away is all about, I never wanna go home! Gems! Mmm... Woohoo!" He exclaimed as he began eating them. Spike sat in the pile of gems devouring them away, and while he did have all of these gems to himself, he still felt sadness in his heart. "Even if my tummy's full, the rest of me is still empty. I miss Twilight and the pony gang. But she doesn't love me anymore. So, I'm better off here, all by myself." He said to himself. As Spike ate more gemestones he then remebered back to a few hours eariler. "YOU KNOW WHY YOU DON'T KNOW ANYTHING, BECAUSE YOU. DON'T. HAVE. PARENTS"! An overwhelming sense of guilt washed over Spike. "Why did I say those things to Apple Bloom? She was only trying to help, and now It's too late for me to apologize to her". Spike stated as he closed his eyes, and continue to eat the gems, a few tears falling from his eyes. He sat in silence for awhile when he soon started to feel hotter, and hotter. "Seems to be getting warmer. The steam is great for my complexion, but it's sure getting hot in here". Spike stated. Curious as to what was causing the sudden rise in heat Spike turned around, and came face to face with a large, angry green dragon. "What are you doing in my cave? And why are you eating my gems?" The dragon demanded. Spike gulped, he tried to think of an excues. "Uh, heyah bro! I didn't know this was your cave. And I didn't know these were your gems, but... we're cool, right?" Spike asked. However the green dragon just growled in response. "Whoa, whoa! Hey... We're like brothers, you know? I mean, you're a dragon, I'm a dragon... It's us against the world, right?" Spike asked though his voice was quivering. This time the green dragon roared loudly. "You don't scare me"! Spike declared. This made the green dragon angrier, but Spike continued. "So you're big"! He said, but soon gulped when he took a good look at the dragon's height. "Really big". The green dragon the sharpened his claws. "Claws super sharp." Finally the green dragon shot a bunch of sharp spikes from it's tail. Tail... extra spiky. But, uh... You don't scare me!" Spike exclaimed. He then shot a small puff of fire breath at the green dragon. "Ha! How'd you like that?" The green dragon responded by shooting a huge blast of fire at Spike. Luckily he manged to dodge the attack. "Uh... I'd love to stay, but gotta go! See ya! Wouldn't wanna be ya!" Spike said as he began to run. However the green dragon had no intentions of letting Spike get away. It fired it's breath at Spike as the smaller dragon ran under it's body. Spike tried to hide behind a rock, but the green dragon used his tail to smash it. Spike ran throughout the cave until eventually he was cornered, and had no where left to run. Just when it looked like thinks were over Spike heard a familar hooting sound. "Hoo-hoo!" Owlowiscous and Bertholdt Hoover we're flying towards the green dragon. "Get away from him"! Bertholdt yelled as he and Owlowiscous flew around the dragon greatly annoying it. As the Dragon tried to swat them away Reiner came charging into the cave, and went up to Spike. "Come on"! He ordered. Spike did as he was told, and together he and Reiner began to run. "Spike! Over here"! Twilight called from the cave entrance. Spike and Reiner ran to the exit. "Am I glad to see you!" Spike exclaimed. "Hurry hop on"! Twilight told him. Spike hopped on to Twilight's back as she and Reiner began to run, Owlowiscous, and Bertholdt following close behind. However the green dragon was not done yet, and began to chase after them. To make matters worse there was hardly any light. "It's too dark! I can't see"! Twilight cried. "Neither can I"! Exclaimed Reiner. Fourtentley Owlowiscous flew infront of them "Hoo! Hoo-hoo!" He said. They all immeidetly understood that Owlowiscous was telling them that he could see in the dark, and therefore lead them to safety. So they kept on running, until finally the green dragon cave up it's chase, and all five creatures were safe. "Spike. We were so worried about you. I was so worried about you. Why did you run away?" Twilight asked. Spike just looked down. "This is a conversation you too need to have". Reiner stated. He and Bertholdt stepped back as Twilight waited for Spike to respond. Finally the baby dragon sighed. "I thought you didn't need me anymore. And that you didn't love me anymore." Spike replied. "Spike. Sure, I was disappointed, but you are my number one assistant! And friend. And you always will be. It's just that sometimes I need some help at night. I can't ask you to stay up late. You're a baby dragon and you need your rest. Owls are nocturnal. So I asked Owlowiscious to help. But not to take your place. No one could ever replace you, Spike. Not even when you are being a jealous numbskull." Twilight explained. "We tried to tell you that Spike, but you were so busy trying to prove yourself that you didn't listen". Reiner stated. Spike sighed. "I'm sorry everyone, I shouldn't have been so jealous" He said. "And I'm sorry too, I should have been more senstieve". Twilight replied. Spike then looked up at Owlowiscous. "And Owlowiscious... I know now that you weren't out to take my job. Forgive me?" "Hoo"? Owlowiscous said. "Me. Forgive me, Spike." Spike replied. "Hoo". Owlowiscous said again as Spike looked on in confusion. "He forgives you Spike." Twilight stated. Spike sighed in relief hearing that. "So how did you guys find me anyways"? Spike asked. "We followed your footprints that you left with the ketchup". Reiner stated. "Oh." Spike replied. "I'm sorry I tried to frame you Owlowiscous". "It's okay Spike". Twilight stated. Then Spike gasped. "Apple Bloom! I said something really mean to Apple Bloom earlier! I've got to". Spike began only for Twilight to stop him. "Spike I spoke to her already, and she wanted me to tell you that she forgives you". "She does'? Spike asked. Twilight nodded, and Spike smiled. "Come on, let's go home". Reiner stated. Back at the Golden Oak Libary Twilight and Spike were getting ready to write the friendship report to Princess Celestia. "I know Princess Celestia will wanna read about what happened today..." Twilight stated. "I'm ready when you are"! Spike said. Twilight was about to start resiting the letter, when she got an idea. "Hey, Spike. Why don't you write to Princess Celestia? And tell her what you've learned?" She suggested. "Really? Why, that's a big responsibility!" Spike stated. "I know, but nothing my number one assiatant can't handle". Twilight said confendidtly. So Spike did just that. "Dear Princess Celestia, This is Spike, writing to you about my adventures. This week I've learned that being jealous and telling lies gets you nowhere in friendship. I also learned that there's plenty of love for every friend to share. So from here on out, I promise, that I, Spike, will..." However he fell asleep before he could finish. "Oh Spike". Twilight giggled. "Hoo"? Said Owlowiscous causing Twilight to look up in confusion. "Who? Spike! You kno..." Twilight began before realizng. "Ohhhh..." She giggled. The next moring Spike was walking across town again when he spotted Apple Bloom with Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Seeing the three filles Spike walked up to them. When they saw him Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo glared at him, it was clear Apple Bloom had told them what he had said, and they weren't too happy with him. Spike sighed. "Hi Apple Bloom, can I, uh talk to you"? Spike asked. "I don't know, can you"? Scootaloo responded coldly, a reaction Spike was expecting, but Apple Bloom put her hoof up. "Scootaloo let him speak". Apple Bloom stated. Scootaloo nodded her head in understanding as she and Sweetie Belle left. Apple Bloom looked at Spike, and smiled. "Hi Spike, what do you need"? She asked as the sun sparkled down on her. "Goddess". Spike said intetrnaly before looking striaght at Apple Bloom. "Listen, I just wanted to say I'm really sorry for what I said to you yesterday, I was angry, and wasn't thinking striaght. "You were right I let my jealousy get the best of me, and I took my anger out the ponies who care about me most. I just really hope you can forgive me". Spike said praticaly begging. Apple Bloom smiled, grabbed her crutches, limped over to Spike, and gave him a big hug. "I forgive you Spike". She stated as Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo joined in the hug as well. Preview When her friends find excues to not come to her parties, Pinkie begins to investage and suspects that they plan to get rid of her, causing her to loose herself. Can her friends clear up the misunderstanding before it's too late? Next Episode. Party of One Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Spike Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Applejack Fluttershy Apple Bloom Rarity Sweetie Belle Rainbow Dash Scootaloo Pinkie Pie Sweetie Drops Shoeshine Owlowiscious Davenport Daisy Lyra Heartstrings Lemon Hearts Goldengrape Roseluck Lilly Valley Gostir Episode 33: Party of One: Gala arc Part 26It was the afternoon in Ponyville. The sun was high in the sky, and Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover were about to have lunch, when they heard a knock at the door. "What the hell". Reiner muttered. He walked over to the door, and saw an interesting sight. There was Pinkie Pie, but she wasn't looking her happy go lucky self, she looked tired, and worn out. "Um..... Pinkie Pie you okay"? Reiner asked. Pinkie Pie panted heavly before speaking. "W would you g guys l l like t to c come to G Gu Gummy's birthday p party". Pinkie Pie manged to say before colapseing to the ground. Inside the house Pinkie Pie was feeling much better as she drank some chocolate milk that Reiner had made for her. "Thank you guys, I needed this." She said. "Hey no problem, anything to help a friend out". Reiner stated. "So why were so tired, I mean it's not like you at all. You're usually so energetic". Bertholdt pointed out. "Well........ You see". Pinkie Pie began (A few hours eariler) It was a normal day in ponyville. Inside her home Twilight Sparkle was reading a book when she heard a knock at the door. She walked over, and saw Pinkie Pie looking her wacky energetic self as usual, her pet Aligator Gummy was with her as well. "Oh hi Pinkie Pie". Twilight began, but before she could ask what Pinkie Pie was doing at her house the energetic earth pony started singing. This is your singing telegram I hope it finds you well You're invited to a party 'Cause we think you're really swell Pinkie Pie was then at the Carousel Boutique singing for Rarity, and Sweetie Belle Gummy's turning one year old So help us celebrate The cake will be delicious The festivities first-rate She continued for Applejack, and Apple Bloom There will be games and dancing Bob for apples, cut a rug And when the party's over We'll gather 'round for a group hug As she went on for Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo she began to getting tired. No need to bring a gift Being there will be enough Birthdays mean having fun with friends Not getting lots of stuff "And by the time she got to Fluttershy she was nearly gasping for air due to how exhausted she was". It won't be the same without you So we hope that you say yes So, please, oh please R.S.V.P. And come, and be our guest! Finally Pinkie Pie was done, she breath heavily, and said in a raspy voice "Next time, I think I'll just pass out written invitations." "And that's what happened." "So it's Gummy's birthday"? Reiner asked. "Yep, and everypony's going to be there. Well accept Apple Bloom because you know, her leg". Stated Pinkie Pie "Yeah, how is her leg doing by the way"? Reiner asked. "Oh it looked like it was doing fine, I mean she no longer needs crutches from what I saw, but she is still wearing a leg brace." Pinkie Pie replied. "I see". Reiner stated. "So will you guys come"? Pinkie Pie asked. "Of course we will". Reiner replied as Bertholdt nodded. "YAY"! Pinkie Pie cheered as she hugged the two of them tightly". Later that day Gummy's party was held inside Pinkie Pie's bedroom at Sugarcube corner. Almost everyone was there, and having fun. Twilight, and Pinkie Pie were dancing, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash were bobbing for Apples, and Rarity, Bertholdt, Fluttershy, and Reiner were having a conversation. The only ones who weren't there were the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Apple Bloom due to her broken leg still needing to heal, because of that Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo chose to hang with her instead. Pinkie Pie didn't mind that, as she felt it would have been unfair to Apple Bloom to sit at home while her friends had fun. Over with Applejack, and Rainbow Dash Applejack grabbed an Apple, tossed it into the air, and ate it whole. "Nice one". Rainbow Dash said impressed. "Now let me show you how it's really done." However before Rainbow Dash could show Applejack up Pinkie Pie came up to the two of them. "Hey girls". She greeted. "Hey Pinkie Pie". Greeted Rainbow Dash. "Howdy". Applejack did the same. "Just wanted to tell you how happy I am that you could make it to Gummy's party." She said happily. "Are you kiddin'? I wouldn't have missed it for the world." Applejack stated. "Me too. When Pinkie Pie throws a party I am there"! Rainbow Dash said as she dove in for an apple. "Ta da"! She exclaimed. "Aw! It's just a boring old apple. Don't worry, there are plenty of other surprises in there." Pinkie Pie stated. "What kind of suprises"? Rainbow Dash asked her curiousty peaking. "I can't tell you that, silly. Then it wouldn't be a surprise." Pinkie Pie answered before skipping away. After she left Rainbow Dash, and Applejack both dove into the bucket hoping to get one of the suprises. However their suprises weren't what they were expecting. Applejack got a green apple that was atatched to a spring which caused her face to splash into the water. Meanwhile Rainbow Dash came up with Gummy bitting her face. Applejack let out a small chuckle which caused Rainbow Dash to glare at her. "Heh. Uh. Good thing he don't have teeth". Applejack laughed nervously as Rainbow Dash tossed Gummy away. Pinkie Pie meanwhile walked over to Rarity who was drinking some punch. Pinkie Pie got her another cup as soon as she was finished. "This punch is simply divine. Is this the same recipe you used for your "Spring Has Sprung" party?" Rarity asked. "Nope! Something new." Pinkie Pie replied. Rarity looked over, and to her horror saw Gummy inside the punch bowl. She realized that the punch was made from Gummy's spit. Rarity spat it out, before looking at Pinkie Pie who still had a huge smile on her face. "It's Gummy's favorite". Pinkie Pie explained. Not wanting to hurt the party pony's feelings Rarity gulped, and took another sip of the punch. Just then another song came on causing Pinkie Pie to brighten up. "Ooh, this is my jam!" She exclaimed as she ran over to the dance floor. Once she was gone Rarity turned to a potted plant and spat the punch out. Pinkie Pie joined the dance floor with Twilight, and Fluttershy. "Having Fun". She asked. "A blast"! Said Twilight. "You always throw the best parties, Pinkie Pie." Fluttershy stated. "They're always the best parties 'cause my best friends are always there!" Pinkie Pie replied. However she danced so hard that she ended up knocking both Twilight, and Fluttershy into the walls. The two of them quickly recoverd however, and contiuned to dance as Pinkie Pie went over to Bertholdt, and Reiner. "I'm so happy you came"! Pinkie Pie said. "We wouldn't have missed it". Reiner stated. "I haven't had this fun in such a long time". Bertholdt replied. "Well I'm happy you're having fun now"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed before calling out to the others. "C'mon, everypony! Gummy wants to dance! Go, Gummy! It's your birthday! Go, Gummy! It's your". The party lasted all the way into the night, and soon it was time for everyone to leave. "Hoo-wee! I am beat! I haven't danced that much since... Well, since your last party. Thanks again for the invite! Oh, and sorry the Crusaders couldn't be here". Applejack stated. "That's okay, infact I should be the one apologzing. I was so excited about Gummy's Party that I didn't think about how Apple Bloom wouldn't be able to do anything". Pinkie Pie replied. "Don't worry about it". Applejack stated as she left. "See ya later, birthday alligator!" Rainbow Dash said. "Bravo for hosting yet another delightful soiree." Rarity replied. "It was lovely". Stated Fluttershy. Before Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt could leave Pinkie Pie called out to the three. "Are you sure you don't wanna stay? There's still some cake left." She said. "Uh, we think we're going to pass". Twilight stated. "Yeah. It was a great party though". Replied Bertholdt. "We should defenitly do this again soon". Reiner suggeseted as the three of them left. Pinkie Pie ponderd on their words, and then an idea flew into her head. "We should do this again soon!" She exclaimed happily. Meanwhile the rest of the Mane Eight began to walk away as they talked about the party. "Wow, I still can't get over how fun Pinkie Pie's parties are". Said Reiner. "Yeah, I honestly hope she throws another one tommorow"! Twilight said happily. However Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy all stopped, and turned to face Twilight, Reiner, and Berthodt. "What's wrong"? Asked Bertholdt. "We won't be able to attend any of Pinkie Pie's parties tommorow if she plans one". Said Applejack. This confused Reiner, Bertholdt, and Twilight. "Why not"? Reiner asked. "Because tommorow is Pinkie Pie's birthday, and we plan to throw a suprise party for her as a way to thank her for all the fun parties she's thrown us". Rainbow Dash stated. Hearing that Twilight gasped with delight. "Really, that's wonderful". She said. Applejack nodded. "That's right Twi, but remember if Pinkie Pie does invite you three to a party you need to come up with an excuess as to why you can't go. Alright". Twilight, Bertholdt, and Reiner nodded their heads. Satisfied the other four ponies smiled, and they all went back home. The next morning at the Golden Oak Libarby Twilight was woken up to more frantic knocking. Yawning she walked downstairs, and opened door once again seeing Pinkie Pie standing there. Twilight smiled, and greeted her friend. "Oh! Hi, Pinki-" She began, but before she could finish Pinkie Pie jumped in Twilight's face all giddy. "It's soon"! She squealed confusing Twilight. "Pardon me"? Twilight asked. "You said we should have another party soon, and... it's soon! Here's your invitation!" Pinkie Pie replied as she thrusted one of the envelopes into Twilight's hooves. Twilight opened the invatation, and read it. ""You're invited to Gummy's 'after-birthday' party. This afternoon at 3 o'clock." Twilight's eyes then widened as she remebered Applejack's words from last night. "Remember if Pinkie Pie does invite you three to a party you need to come up with an excuess as to why you can't go. Alright". Pinkie Pie meanwhile was rambling on about the party. "All our bestest friends are invited, and there's gonna be dancing, and games, and cake, and ice-cream, and punch!" She said excitedly. "This afternoon? As in, "this afternoon" this afternoon?" Twilight asked kind of panicking, which Pinkie Pie was oblivous too. "Yes, indeedy!" Pinkie Pie said happily. Thinking quickly, Twilight used her magic to secretly knock a bunch of books off of her shelves. "Oh, gosh. I wish I could make it, but I've gotten a bit behind in my studies. I've really gotta hit the books." Twilight said. Pinkie Pie smiled understaningly. "I understand. Your studies come first. But don't worry, we'll be sure to save you some cake." She said. "Please do". Twilight replied as Pinkie Pie began walking away, however before she left Pinkie Pie turned to Twilight. "Oh! And Twilight, you shouldn't hit the books. You should really just read them." She stated. "I'll keep that in mind". Twilight replied as Pinkie Pie left. "Twilight has to focus on her studies. It makes sense, she was sent to learn about friendship by Princess Celestia. At least I have my other friends to come, I'll go give an invatation to Applejack". Pinkie Pie thought to herself as she made her way to Sweet Apple Acres. At said farm Applejack was busy pulling three wagons of apples towards the barn, when Pinkie Pie came out from behind a bunch of hay bales. "Huh"? Applejack said in confusion before realizing it was just Pinkie Pie "Oh, hi, Pinkie Pie! What brings you 'round these parts?" Applejack asked. "Who's ready to shake their hoof-thang?!" Pinkie Pie asked. Confused Applejack took one of the envolopes from Pinkie Pie's basket. "It's an invitation to Gummy's "after-birthday" party this afternoon. There's gonna be dancing, and games, and cake, and ice-cream, and punch!" Pinkie Pie explained. "This afternoon? As in "this afternoon" this afternoon?" Applejack asked wanting to be sure she heard correctly. "That's funny. That's just what Twilight said, and the answer is, "Yes! It's this afternoon!" Pinkie Pie replied. Remembering that they still needed to plan for Pinkie Pie's suprise party. "Uh, well, I... I... uh... I don't think I can make it 'cause... uh... I have to... uh... uh, you know what? I... uh... " Applejack quickly tried to think of something to say. To her luck she spotted Apple Bloom sitting on the porch swing with Winona. Applejack had been so focused on work she didn't even noticed Apple Bloom until then, but it gave Applejack an idea. "I'd love to, but I heard that the wolves in Fillydelphia just had PUPPIES, and I was planing on taking Apple Bloom to see them". Applejack had said that part a little louder so that Apple Bloom could hear them, and she did cause When Applejack looked over at where Apple Bloom was she was staring intently at her. Applejack gulped, and turned back to Pinkie Pie who was also glaring at her. Applejack gulped again. But then Pinkie Pie just smiled. "Okey-dokey-lokey! A party is still a party, even if there are only five guests" Pinkie Pie stated as she skipped away. Applejack sighed, and headed back over to Apple Bloom. "I know you have to plan her suprise party, but why did you have to lie about baby wolves? Why couldn't you tell her you just had to pick apples"? Apple Bloom asked. "Oh. I wasn't lying about that little sis, the Fillydelphia zoo really does have baby Wolf Pups, and I really do plan on taking you to see them. Perhaps tommorow if you're up for it". Applejack stated. Apple Bloom lit up with excitment. "YES!" She exclaimed before hugging Applejack. "Careful little sis, you're leg's almost healed. We don't need anything happening to it now do we." Applejack warned. Immeidtldlely Apple Bloom calmed down. At Carousel Botique Spike was taking out the garbage for Rarity, of course he didn't mind since after all it was Rarity asking him to do it, and so once he was done, he happily went back to her. "Anything else I can do for you, most beautiful one?" He asked. The garbage had mad him incredibley dirty, and Rarity good smell the stink all over him. "Hmm... perhaps you could take a bath. How do I put this delicately? You smell like a rotten apple core that's been wrapped in moldy hay and dipped in dragon perspiration." She told him as she turned away. Spike however took it very well, and began to float in the air as Rarity genetly pushed him away. Just then Pinkie Pie appeared. "Ooh! Love the new hat. Very modern. What's the occasion?" Rarity asked. "Gummy's "after-birthday" party is this afternoon. I'm delivering the invitations." Pinkie Pie explained. Hearing that made Rarity gasp. "The party is this afternoon? As in this afternoon this afternoon?" She asked. "That's strange, Twilight, and Applejack said the same thing". Pinkie Pie stated. "Oh... do they?" Rarity asked while chuckling. "I know it's short notice, but we had such a great time at his birthday party, I thought we could have even more fun at his after-birthday party." Pinkie Pie said with a hopeful smile. Seeing how excited Pinkie Pie was just broke Rarity's heart, but she had no choice. "And I'm sure that we would, but I'm going to have to decline. I have to... wash my hair!" Rartiy said. However Pinkie Pie looked at Rarity in confusion. "But you're hair doesn't look dirty at all". She stated. "It doesn't?" Rarity asked. "Nope. Pinkie Pie replied. Thinking quickily Rarity rushed over to the trashcan, and after some hesitation she stuck her head inside of it. "See. Dirty". She gagged before running into her house. "I have to go". "Wait, what about Sweetie Belle, can she come"? Pinkie Pie asked. "She's has a very important school project she's working on, that's going to take her all day probably". Rarity called from inside. Pinkie Pie continued to stand in confusion. "Huh, no Twilight, no Applejack, no Apple Bloom, no Rarity, and no Sweetie Belle." She said. However her disapointment didn't last long. "Oh well I still have Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Reiner, and Bertholdt." She said happily. However when she found Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash said. "This afternoon". "As in". Fluttershy continued before Pinkie Pie intterupted them "Yes! As in, "this afternoon" this afternoon!" Pinkie Pie said, she was still smiling though hearing the samething over, and over again was getting annoying. "Oh, man! We'd love to, but... we're... house-sitting this afternoon." Rainbow Dash said. "Both of you"? Asked Pinkie Pie. "It's... uh... a big house." Fluttershy stated as Rainbow Dash used a pencil to draw a fake watch on her hoof. "Uh, look at the time! We'd really better get going." She said, as she and Fluttershy began to fly away only for Pinkie Pie to call out to them "Wait"! She yelled causing the two of them to stop, and fly back over to her. "Maybe I could bring you some after-birthday cake and ice-cream. Who're you house-sitting for?" Pinkie Pie asked. "Harry". Said Rainbow Dash. "Harry"? Pinkie Pie repated in confusion. "Yeah, I don't think you know him". Rainbow Dash replied. "That's strange. I know just about everypony around here." He's... a bear". Fluttershy stated. "A bear"? Pinkie Pie asked. Rainbow Dash looked over at Fluttershy who winked as if to tell Rainbow Dash to go with it. "Yup! He's a bear all right, and he'll be pretty upset if we don't get over to his house soon." She said just as she and Fluttershy tried to leave again only for Pinkie Pie to call out again. "Wait"! Causing them both to stop now getting a bit frustrated, but they didn't let it show as Pinkie Pie continued. "There's a bear around here who lives in a house"? She asked. "It's, uh really more of a cave". Fluttershy replied. "But he's fixed up the place so much, it feels like a house." Rainbow Dash stated. "And, uh, he wants us to look after his house... uh, cave... while he's, uh..." Fluttershy began. "A-at the beach!" Rainbow Dash finished. "He's vacationing at the beach"? Asked a bilwildered Pinkie Pie. "Yup! He loves to..." Rainbow Dash said looking at Fluttershy for help. And soon both of them began talking at once. Fluttershy said. "Collect sea shells". Rainbow Dash said. "Play volleyball". They both looked at each other and tried again. This time Fluttershy said "Play volleyball". And Rainbow Dash said "Collect sea shells". Then Fluttershy said "Collect volleyballs While Rainbow Dash said "Play with seashells. They both then just stared at Pinkie Pie with nervous smiles on their faces. "Gotta go!" Rainbow Dash said as she and Fluttershy quickly flew away. Pinkie Pie sighed. "Oh well a party's stil a party with three guess". Pinkie Pie made her way over to Scootaloo's house, and found her outside sunbathing in the grass. "Hey Scootaloo". Pinkie Pie called causing the filly to look up. "Oh hey Pinkie Pie, what can I do for you"? Scootaloo asked. "Listen I know you couldn't come to Gummy's birthday party yesterday, but I was wondering if you'd be able to come to his after party this afternoon?" Pinkie Pie asked. Scootaloo's eyes widened. "The party's". She began as she and Pinkie Pie both began to speak at the same time. "This afternoon, as in this afternoon this afternoon"? They both said, and Pinkie Pie groaned. "Yes, just like everypony else has asked, the party is this afternoon this afternoon". She confirmed. Scootaloo looked sadly at Pinkie Pie. "God I'd really love to, but I'm heading out of town to visit family for a special occasion". She stated. "Oh, what for"? Asked Pinkie Pie. "It's one of my cousins quinceañera." Scootaloo stated. "Oh, I actually didn't know you were hispanic". Pinkie Pie said. "Yep". Scootaloo chuckled. Just then one of her aunts called out to Scootaloo in spanish. <"Scootaloo come on the train will be leaving soon".> <"Right, I'll be there in a minute"> Scootaloo replied also in spanish. "Sorry Pinkie Pie, but I have to go". Scootaloo said as she rushed inside. Pinkie Pie sighed sadly. "Twilight, Spike, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Scootaloo. None of them can come, I guess that just leaves Reiner, and Bertholdt". She stated, before smiling again. "Oh well, a party is still a party even with only two guests." Pinkie Pie said as she skipped over to Reiner, and Bertholdt's house. Once she arrived, she knocked and the door, and waited. After a few moments Reiner opened the door, and smiled when he saw Pinkie Pie. "Hey Pinkie Pie, what brings you here"? He asked. "Do you guys want to come to Gummy's after birthday party this afternoon"? Pinkie Pie asked. Reiner instantly the same look on his face that everyone else got just as Bertholdt came over. He was about to reply when Pinkie Pie intterupted him "And before you say anything, yes it's this afternoon, this afternoon". She confirmed. Reiner, and Bertholdt both stared at each other before turning back to Pinkie Pie. "We're sorry Pinkie, but we can't". Reiner said sadly. Pinkie Pie sighed. "Alright, so what are you so busy with that you can't come"? She asked. "What do you mean"? Bertholdt asked in return. "Well, everypony I've asked has been too busy today. Twilight's studying, Applejack has plans to take Apple Bloom to the Fillydelphia Zoo, Rarity had to wash her hair, Sweetie Belle's working a something for school, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy are house sitting for a bear named Harry who's vacationing at the beach, and Scootaloo's going out of town for family buisness. So what are you too doing"? She asked. Reiner and Bertholdt looked at each other for a moment before Bertholdt rushed back into the kitchen. Pinkie Pie stared in confusion as Reiner smiled nervously at her. All of sudden both of them heard the sound of glass shattering, the noise lasted for about 3 minutes as Reiner turned back to Pinkie. "Oh sorry, but our house is a complete mess, and we're going to need to clean, and I'm sure that's going to take us all day". He told her. Pinkie Pie, knowing something was up looked at him suspisously for a few moments as Reiner began to sweat. Pinkie Pie then sighed. "Alright". she said sadly as she turned and walked away. "Sorry Pinkie". Reiner said before closing the door. Currently Pubicly Avalible Information Sugarcube Corner. A bakeray located in Ponyville where it's reisdents can relax and enjoy tastey treats. It is also the home of Pinkie Pie, and Mr. and Mrs. Cake. Pinkie Pie sat in her room with Gummy feeling glum. All of her friends were busy, and couldn't come to Gummy's after party. The more Pinkie Pie thought about it, the more she began to realize that something supscious was defenitly happening. "Something strange is definitely going on around here, Gummy. Sure Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy had to house-sit for that vacationing bear, Applejack made a promise to go somewhere with Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo has family buisness to attend to out of town, but what are the chances all my other friends would have plans this afternoon too? Rarity has to wash her hair? Twilight is behind on her studies and has to hit the books? Reiner, and Bertholdt are cleaning? Pinkie Pie thought to herself for a moment. The more I think I about it the more those are starting to sound like..." She then gasped as the realization hit her like a ton of bricks falling onto her head. "Excuses"! Just then Pinkie Pie noticed something. It was Twilight, and Reiner. The two of them were sneaking before entering Sugarcube Corner. "That doesn't look like studying or cleaning". Pinkie Pie stated. Decieding to get a closer listen, Pinkie grabed two cans and attached them to strings. She then put one of them down through a hole in the floor so she could hear their conversation Inside the main area Twilight rung the bell, and Mrs. Cake came out. She smiled once she saw both Twilight and Reiner. "Ooh! You must be here for..." She began before being shushed by both Reiner, and Twilight. "Is Pinkie Pie around"? Reiner asked. "Oh I don't think so". Mrs. Cake replied. "Good, we don't want her to know anything about this". Twilight stated. "Yes, of course. I'll be right back." Mrs. Cake replied as she left. Meanwhile Pinkie Pie listend in very confused. "But... we're friends. What wouldn't Reiner, and Twilight want me to know anything about?" She asked. Just then she heard Mrs. Cake returning. "She's coming back"! Pinkie Gasped as she pulled the can back down through the hole to listen some more. "There you go". Pinkie Pie heard Mrs. Cake say, clearly giving them something. "Thanks, and remember, not a word to Pinkie Pie." Reiner stated. Just then Pinkie Felt herself being yanked forwared. "Hey what's with the tin can"? She heard Twilight ask. "Something's going on, and I'm gonna figure out what it is". Pinkie Pie thought to herself. Twilight, and Reiner hasitly sneaked around Ponyville, they were trying extra hard not to be spotted. However unbeknownst to them Pinkie was following close behind. "Time to get to the bottom of this". She declared as she put on a pair of folk glasses in order to hide herself. Pinkie followed close behind Reiner, and Twilight, but just then they turned around causing Pinkie Pie to quickly hide. "I think our cover's been blown, we'll need a new disguse". She said to Gummy. Twilight and Reiner made their way to Carousel Boutique and rang the doorbell. Rarity and Sweetie Belle slowly opened the door. Seeing that it was Twilight and Reiner, they steped out and moved over to the two of them. "She didn't see you at the sweet shop, did she?" Rarity asked. "We don't think so". Reiner replied. "Good, it would be dredful if she ruined everything". Rarity stated to which both Twilight and Reiner nodded in agreement. "Us too". Twilight said. She then steped forward, and "accidently" droped the box that was on her back. Rarity looked around, to make sure the cost was clear before stepping infront of the box, and grabbing it with her tail. "Ready Sweetie Belle"? Rarity whispered. Sweetie Belle nodded, and the two of them snuck away unawere that Pinkie Pie was watching them from within a hay bale. Pinkie Pie followed close behind them while remaining hidden. Eventually Rarity, and Sweetie Belle came to an alley where they ran into Fluttershy, and Bertholdt. This confused Pinkie Pie cause she remembered that Fluttershy had said she, and Rainbow Dash were going to be housesitting for a bear. Rarity then began talking. "Have you two seen her"? She asked obivously reffering to Pinkie Pie. "Not since this morning". Fluttershy replied. "Us too Can you believe she was planning on throwing an after-birthday party today"? Rarity asked. "Fluttershy and I are just glad that we were able to come up with excues as to why we couldn't go". Bertholdt stated. Just then Scootaloo showed up confusing Pinkie even more since she was suppose to be out of town. Pinkie Pie continued to listen as they continued. "Is everything ready". Scootaloo asked. "Yes it is, and Pinkie Pie is none the wiser Rarity stated. "Good, and I got this". Scootaloo said as she pulled a small box out of her bag. "Perfect. This is going to be so much better then the party Pinkie Pie was planning". Rarity said, the others nodding in agreement as Pinkie Pie watched from her hiding spot, her eyes filling with tears. "It's all going to go well, as long as we don't keep her from finding out". Fluttershy stated. Rarity then passed the box over to Fluttershy. "Good luck". Rarity whispered. With that the five ponies each split up. Bertholdt flew north, Rarity walked further into the alley, Sweetie Belle hopped on Scootaloo's scooter, and the two of them traveled east, while Flutttershy with the box moved south. Pinkie Pie made an attempt go escape without being spotted. However she bounced into a wall, and stumbled backwords right behind Fluttershy, and when shy pony turned to see what the noise was, all she saw was a large hay bale with big googly eyes staring at her. Fluttershy screamed in horror, and flew away taking the box with her. Pinkie Pie watched her go. "I thought everypony loved my parties". She said sadly. Just then Rainbow Dash walked by. "Hi Pinkie Pie". She said, but then panicked as she realized her mistake. "Uh oh". She said before qucikly flying away as Pinkie Pie jumped out of the hay bale. "Rainbow Dash, wait"! She called out. Rainbow Dash flew around several corners and allies. Once she thought she was safe she stoped to take a breath only for Pinkie Pie to appear out of a barrel. "Where are you going"! The Pink Earth Pony asked. "Gah"! Rainbow Dash yelped as she flew all the way to Ponyile Junior High, and hid inside the bell. However Pinkie Pie was waiting there too. "What's the real reason you didn't want to come to Gummy's party?!" She demanded to know as Rainbow Dash flew away again. She flew all the way up a mountain only to find Pinkie Pie waiting up for her. It was then Pinkie Pie noticed that Rainbow Dash was carrying some kind of bag with her. "WHAT'S IN THE BAG"!!!! Pinkie Pie shouted only for Rainbow Dash to fly away again. "I can escape you Pinkie Pie"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she zipped away. This made Pinkie Pie very cross. No, you CAN'T! Pinkie Pie screamed as she chased after Rainbow Dash. The two of them headed striaght for Sweet Apple Acres the noise catching the attention of Applejack. "Applejack! We've got a problem"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed despretely. Applejack looked and saw Pinkie Pie following Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash flew into the barn, and Applejack rushed in afterwards and slamed the door just as Pinkie Pie arrived and started knocking on the door. "I know you're in there"! She exclaimed. Knowing she wasn't going to go away Applejack slowly opened the door and gave Pinkie Pie a nervous smile. "Oh! Howdy, pardner!" Applejack chuckled nervously. "Mind if I... take a look inside the barn?" Asked Pinkie Pie. "No! Uh, I mean, yes, I mean... you can't come in here!" Applejack stuttered. "Rainbow Dash went in". Pinkie Pie retorted. "Oh, well, she was just bringin' in some... supplies! Yup, supplies for the... renovation! Fixin' up the whole thing, top to bottom... uh, lots of construction goin' on in there right now." Applejack said while looking behind her. "You heard her, construction". Rainbow Dash whispered to someone else that was clearly in the barn Soon there we're sounds of ponies mimcking construction noises. Pinkie Pie still uncovinced tried several attempts to look inside the barn only for Applejack to slam the door on her neck. "Yup! Construction! That's my story, and I'm stickin' to it." Applejack chuckled nervously, and then gulped as Pinkie Pie continued to glare at her before stepping back. "Okey... dokey... lokey." Pinkie Pie said as she left angrily. Once she was gone Applejack sighed in relief as Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy came out and also sighed in relief. Back inside Applejack's house, Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, and the CMCs were busy in the kitchen. Apple Bloom was baking some kind of chocolate dish. Reiner was reading from a cook book, and telling her what to put in. "Alright now that you've got everything mix it all together". He told her. Apple Bloom nodded and did what she was told. As she was doing so Sweetie Belle tried to sneak her hoof into the batter and have a taste only for Apple Bloom to smack her hoof away. "Yow"! Sweetie Belle yelped as she looked up to see Apple Bloom glaring at her. "Wait, until everything is done". The earth pony filly stated. "Aww, but Apple Bloom". Sweetie Belle began to complain only for Apple Bloom's face to get very serious. "I said to wait, didn't I". She asked coldly. Sweetie Belle gulped, and quickly nodded her head. Apple Bloom's scowl instantly turned into a happy smile. "Wonderful". She said cheerful as she continued baking while humming a cheerful toon. Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all stared at her in shock. "Talk about a mood swing". They all thought unanimously. Back in the alley where Pinkie Pie began her chase with Rainbow Dash she was angirly pacing around as she ranted to Gummy about what had happend. "Secrets and lies! It's all secrets and lies with those ponies! They're up to something, Gummy! Something they don't want me to know about! Well, I'm gonna know about it! I'm gonna know about it big time! And I know just who's gonna tell me all about it. Tell me all about it big time!" She declared. Pinkie Pie walked towards Twilight's house, and just her like Spike was outside watering the garden. Pinkie walked over to him. "Hey Spike". Pinkie greeted omiously. Spike jumped up in suprise and turned back to face Pinkie Pie. "Oh uh, hey Pinkie Pie". What brings you here"? He asked. "Oh nothing, I was just wondering if you'd like to go back to Sugarcube Corner with me". Pinkie Pie stated her eye twitching. "Um what for"? Spike asked. "Oh just to answer a few questions for me". Pinkie Pie answered. "Um, well Twilight really needs me to do some important chores today so I". "I have gems". Pinkie Pie said intterupting Spike. That got to baby dragon to perk up. "Gems"?! He asked excitedly mouth watering. Pinkie Pie nodded. "Alright let's go"! Spike exclaimed as he ran to Sugarcube Corner Pinkie Pie following behind with a sinister grin. "I'll get to the bottom of this". She thought to herself. Once they arrived a Sugarcube Corner Pinkie Pie made Spike sit down in a chair at the end of a table. She then presented him with a large bowl of gemstones. Spike looked at them in amazment. "Wow! Nice spread!" Spike said as his mouth watered some more. Pinkie Pie smiled. "It's all your's". She told him. Then she put a lamp right into Spike's face causing him to stumble back onto the chair. "All you have to do is talk". Pinkie Pie said coldly. Spike was confused at first, but then he assumed that Pinkie Pie just wanted to have a conversation, and Spike as good at those. "That's it? Oh, you got it. Okay... uh, beautiful weather we're having, eh? I love a sunny spring day, don't you? The birds chirpin' and the flowers bloomin'." Spike began only for Pinkie to angrily intterupt him. "No, no, no. Talk about our friends." She told him. Of course Spike thought she just wanted to talk about them in general so that's what he did. "Oh, okay. Let's see, there's Twilight Sparkle. She's a unicorn. Good with magic. A real brainiac. And then you got Rarity. Total knockout. Twilight seems to think I don't even have a chance with her, but... eh, what does she know? Let's see. There's... there's Fluttershy, a Pegasus who's afraid of heights. Heh, what's up with that? Apple Bloom, such a kind filly, who cares about everyone, and knows how to put ponies in their place when they get out of line. Bertholdt Hoover, doesn't say much, but I mean the guy means well. Reiner Braun, the guy is so brave, and cool I mean he's like a big brother to everypony wouldn't you agree". Spike stated. Pinkie Pie was getting more, and more frustrated. "Grr! No! You're not understanding me! I want you to confess!" She demanded, however this only confused Spike even more. "Confess"? "Confess"! Pinkie Pie repeated. Spike remebered all the things he had done, and kept secret, so he was unsure of what Pinkie Pie wanted him to confess. In a panic he said the first thing that came to his mind. "I'm the one who spilled juice all over Twilight's copy of "Magical Mysteries and Practical Potions"! He admidted. "And"? Pinkie Pie asked pestering him for more. "And I'm the one who used up all the hot water in Ponyville yesterday when I took a seven-hour bubble bath!" Spike stated. "Aaand?" Pinkie Pie asked again, her frustration growing by the second. "And sometimes... when no one's around... I do this". Spike pulled out a mirror and began to flex infront of it. "Lookin' good, Spike! Lookin' real good!" Pinkie Pie lost her patiences. "No! No! No! No!" She screamed. Spike was getting more and more confused and scared, he didn't know what Pinkie Pie wanted, or what she wanted him to confess. "W-What do you wanna hear? Tell me what you want me to say, and I'll say it!" Spike stated, that was when Pinkie Pie snaped. "Tell me that my friends are all lying to me and avoiding me because they don't like my parties and they don't want to be my friends anymore!" She shrieked in anger. Spike not understanding the situation did just that. "Your friends are all lying to you and avoiding you 'cause they don't like your parties and they don't want to be your friends anymore!" He said. "AHA! I knew it"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed excitedly, but then her excetiment at being right soon turned to depression, her hair deflated, and was no longer poofy, her eyes filled with tears. "Oh no, my friends don't like my parties and they don't want to be my friends anymore." She said sadly. Spike meanwhile just sat at the table, and then gestured at the gems. "Um..... So". He asked sheepishly. Pinkie Pie just pushed the bowl towards him, and he quickly scarfed them all down. Once he was done Spike got up, and left Sugarcube Corner with a smile on his face. "Thanks for the gems Pinkie". he said as he ran off. Pinke Pie just nodded as he left. Once he was gone Pinkie Pie finally broke down, and let her tears flow. Both Mr, and Mrs. Cake we're worried. They had seen Pinkie Pie run up to her room crying, and after about twenty minutes they decieded to check on her. "Pinkie dear, are you alright"? Asked Mrs. Cake. When she got no answer Mr. Cake gentely opened the door, and the two of them found Pinkie Pie on her bed sobbing into her pillow. They walked up to her. "Oh honey what happend"? Asked Mrs. Cake. Pinkie Pie could hardly speak do to how hard she was crying, but she manged to get out through several chokes. " M-my f-friends don't like me anymore"! She wailed. "Why would you think that"? Asked Mr. Cake. "None of them wanted to come to Gummy's after birthday party, and they've all been lying to me". She sniffled. Mr. and Mrs. Cake both shared a look with each other, both of them knew what her friends were really doing, but right now they both knew they had to be there Pinkie Pie. Mrs. Cake gentely pulled Pinkie Pie into a hug, and let the party pony sob into her chest while humming a soft tune to her. It was very much like a mother comforting her child when they were sad. Mr. Cake gentely rubbed Pinkie Pie's back. "Your friends still like you". He whispered. "You may not think that now, but you'll see eventually that they are still you're friends". He said softly. Pinkie Pie said nothing, and continued to cry. After Pinkie Pie was able to calm down, Mr. and Mrs. Cake left the room to leave her alone for a while. They both hoped she wouldn't do anything too crazy. But she did. "If my old friends don't want to come to Gummy's Party". She said. "I'll just make some new ones". stated as she began laughing maniacally. It took quite a bit to set everything up, but soon Gummy's After Party was ready. However Pinkie's old friends weren't with her. Instead, she decieded to make imagenairy friends out of items from around the room. Her new "friends" included, a bag a flower, a pile of rocks, a bucket of turnips, and a clump of lint. "Thank you all so much for coming! It means so much to Gummy." Pinkie Pie said to the objects. She was smiling again, but it wasn't her normal happy smile. Instead it seemed like the smile of someone who was on the verge of pure insanity. Her hair wasn't it's usaually poofy self either, instead it was just droopy, and striaght. "Can I have some more punch"? Pinkie Pie made the bucket of turnips say. "Well, of course you can have some more punch, Mr. Turnip." Pinkie Pie replied. "This is one great pahty! You really outdone yourself!" She said as the pile of rocks. "Why thank you Rocky". Pinkie Pie stated. "I'm having a delightful time as well". Pinkie Pie voiced as the clump of lint. "I'm so glad, Sir Lintsalot." "Might I trouble you for anozer slice of cake?" She asked as the bag of Flour. "Anything for you, Madame le Flour." Pinkie said "I'm just glad none o' them ponies showed up." Said Rocky. This caused Pinkie Pie to look over. Part of her was still holding out hope what Spike had said wasn't true. "Oh they're not so bad". Pinkie Pie said in defense as her eye lids seemed to shrink. "Not so bad?! Puh-lease! They're a buncha loosers"! Rocky retorted. "Oh, c'mon now. "Losers" might be a little strong, dont'cha think?" Pinkie Pie chuckled. "After the way they treated you? I say "losers" isn't strong enough." Said Sir Lintsalot. Hearing that made Pinkie Pie stop, and think. "It was pretty rude". she admited. "Pretty rude? It was downright deespicable"! Exclaimed Madame le Flour. Pinkie Pie soon relaized that they were right. "It was wasn't it"? "If I were you I'd never speak to them again". Stated Mr. Turnip. "You know what? I'm not gonna speak to them ever again. And I'm not gonna invite them to another party as long as I live! They don't deserve to be invited to my parties. Not after the way they've been acting." Pinkie Pie replied as the objects all seemed to cheer. "Deespicable"! Madame le Flour Stated again. "Such Loosers". Said Sir Lintsalot. "Yes zat is right". Madame le Flour agreed as Pinkie Pie descened further into madness, and continued to voice the characters as if they were really there. "Well done"! She said as Mr. Turnip "Yeah"! She stated as Sir Lintsalot "You show 'em"! She voiced as Rocky, but just then Pinkie Pie's little breakdown was intterupted by a knock at the door. "Who could that be"? Pinkie Pie wondered. The door opened and in walked Rainbow Dash, Reiner, Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover. Pinkie Pie looked at them all, and scowled as the all walked in. "Hey there Pinkie Pie". Rainbow Dash greeted. "Hey". Pinkie Pie muttered. The three of them looked at each other in confusion before Rainbow Dash spoke up again. "Sorry I was in such a rush earlier. Had some place to be and couldn't slow down and say, "Hello." You know how it goes." She stated. "And Bertholdt, and I are sorry we couldn't talk to you soon either, but you know cleaning makes you busy right". Reiner replied. Pinkie Pie glared at them. "Yeah, I know how it goes". She said bitterly confusing them more. "Yeah... so, why don't you come with us over to Sweet Apple Acres?" Bertholdt asked. "No thanks, I'm spending time with my real friends. Isn't that right, Madame le Flour"? Pinkie Pie replied. Oui! Zat iz correct, madame. Seeing how crazy Pinkie Pie had seem to have become worried the three other ponies. "Uh Pinkie Pie, you okay"? Reiner asked with a concerned look on his face as Pinkie continued to talk to her "new friends". "Another slice of cake Sir Lintsalot". She asked before making the clump of lint say "I'd love one". Knowing they had to act fast Rainbow Dash spoke up. "Aaallrighty. What do you say we get on out of Creepytown and head over to Applejack's..." She said, "Yeah, everypony's waiting for us anyways, plus there's a special suprise". Bertholdt replied as they walked towards Pinkie who shoved the bucket turnips infront of them "She's not going anywhere"! exclaimed Mr. Turnip. "I most certainly am not. I'm having a wonderful time right here." Pinkie Pie agreed. "You really should come with us". Reiner said but then Rocky appeared infront of him. "You heard the lady! She ain't goin' nowheres, chump"! This made Rainbow Dash cross as she flew up to Rocky. "Where do you get off calling Reiner a chump? Chump!" She then rolled her eyes as she realized what she had done, and sighed. "Ugh... That's it. Party's over. Come on, Pinkie Pie!" Rainbow Dash said. "No"! Pinkie Pie retorted. "Pinkie please it's time to hang out with your real friends, and not imaginary ones". Reiner explained. That made Pinkie Pie gasp as she pretended to cover the ears of the objects around her. "They are not imagnairy"! she exclaimed. I have never been more offened then I am now"! She said as Sir Lintsalot. Rainbow Dash just rolled her eyes. "Pinkie Pie lets go". She ordered. "I said no"! Pinkie Pie said. Rainbow Dash then tried to force Pinkie Pie out of the house as Reiner, and Bertholdt looked on. "You... have to... come with... us"! She struggled. "No... I... don't!" Pinkie Pie said before sitting on Rainbow Dash's face. Rainbow Dash pulled herself free and fell into Bertholdt, and Reiner. She looked up at them, and they nodded. Rainbow Dash then looked back at Pinkie Pie. "Okay Pinkie Pie, you win you don't have to come with us". She said, "Good, now if you'll excuese me I have a party to get back too". Pinkie Pie stated. "Alright you do that". Rainbow Dash said as she, Reiner, and Bertholdt left. Pinkie Pie sighed with relieve. "Finally. now where we're MMPH"! Pinkie Pie was interupted when she was placed in what seemed to be a giant sack. "HEY WHAT'S GOING HERE LET ME OUT"! She screamed. "Sorry Pinkie but this is for your own good"! Reiner stated. Hearing his voice Pinkie Pie began to thrash violently inside the sack. "REINER BRAUN WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?! i DEMAND YOU LET ME OUT OF HERE RIGHT NOW!" She screamed. Reiner ignored her as he, Rainbow Dash, and Bertholdt ran down the stairs and past Mr. and Mrs. Cake. "Take care you four". Mr. Cake said with a small smirk on his face. "MMMPH MMMHPH MMMHPH!" Pinkie Screamed as the ran all the wall the Sweet Apple Acres. Once they arrived Rainbow Dash sighed. " We're... here..." She said as Reiner let Pinkie who was now seething out of the sack. Rainbow Dash opened the door of the barn, and in stood Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "SUPRISE"! They all shouted with glee, however Pinkie Pie just stood there with an angry expresion on her face. "I thought she'd be more excited". Fluttershy stated. "I know". Sweetie Belle replied confused. That was when Pinkie Pie spoke up. "Excited? Excited?! Why would I be excited to attend my own farewell party?!" Pinkie Pie demanded causing the others to gasp. "Farewell Party"? Twilight said in confusion. "Yes! You don't like me anymore, so you decided to kick me out of the group and throw a great, big party to celebrate! A "Farewell to Pinkie Pie" party!" Pinkie Pie accused. "Why in the world would you think we didn't like you anymore, sugarcube?" Applejack asked. Pinkie Pie's fury grew, how dare they ask something like that. "Why? Why? Why?! Because you've been lying to me and avoiding me all day, that's why!" That was when the others all smiled. "Uh yeah, because we wanted you're party to be a suprise". Rainbow Dash stated. "We'd been planning this party for such a long time, we had to make excuses for why we couldn't attend Gummy's party so that we could get everything ready for yours." Rarity continued. " If this is a farewell party, why does the cake I picked up from Sugarcube Corner say "Happy Birthday, Pinkie Pie"?" Twilight asked. "And why would I bake your favorite Apple Cinnamon buns"? Apple Bloom inquired. Pinke Pie looked around, the ballons, the cake, the cinnamom buns, and soon her hair poofed back up into it's orignal shape as she smiled from ear to ear. "Because it's my birthday! Ooh, how could I have forgotten my own birthday?" She said as she pulled the others in for a hug. Her friends all sighed in relief. Just then Apple Bloom spoke up. "Uh Pinkie my leg's still broken remember". "Oh, right sorry". Pinkie Pie said as she dropped them, and began jumping around. "This is amazing, and you like me so much you decided to throw me a surprise party!" she squealed with happiness. "Of course you're are friend Pinkie". Reiner stated. "And that will never change". Bertholdt Replied. "That's what we've been trying to tell you, darling." Rarity chipped in. Pinkie Pie stopped jumping and looked down. "I know, I was just so convinced you didn't like me anymore that I let myself doubt you, I'm sorry". Pinkie Pie apologized. Twilight walked over and gave her a reassuring smile. "It's okay Pinkie Pie, it could happen to any of us". She said. "Uh Uh-huh! It sure would." Rainbow Dash replied. "Don't worry about it". Fluttershy replied. "I'm sure Apple Bloom would have proabaly reacted the same way you did if she was in your postion Scootaloo laughed earning her a strong punch to the back of the head from the very filly she was talking about. "Ow!" Scootaloo yelped only to shut up when she saw the glare Apple Bloom was giving her. "I'm just glad we weren't replaced by a bucket of turnips, a sack of flour, a pile of rocks, and a thing of lint". Reiner stated "Huh"? Twilight asked looking at Pinkie Pie who smiled sheepishly. "You don't wanna know". Rainbow Dash assured. "All right, everpony! Enough of this gab. Let's party!" Applejack said as she turned on the record player. Everyone began having a good time. Twilight, Pinkie, and Rarity danced, Fluttershy, and Applejack tossed a baloon around, Reiner, and Bertholdt played pin the tail on the pony, the CMCs sat on the ground and enjoyed some of Apple Bloom's cinnimom Apple Buns, Rainbow Dash helped herself to some cake, and Spike just danced alone while Twilight recited her letter to the Princess. "Dear Princess Celestia, I am writing to you from the most delightful party. I'm not only having a great time with my friends, but also was given the opportunity to learn a valuable lesson about friendship. Always expect the best from your friends, and never assume the worst. Rest assured that a good friend always has your best interests at heart. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle As the friends continued to party Pinkie then spoke up. "You all wouldn't mind if we celebrated Gummy's after-birthday party too, would you? His party was cut short, and he's pretty upset about it." She asked. "Oh, definitely." Said Fluttershy "Aww he was upset"? Rarity stated. Uh-huh sure". Applejack replied. "You bet". Said Apple Bloom. "I'm down". Scootaloo replied. "Totally". Stated Sweetie Belle "Of course". Said Reiner. "Sounds amazing". Replied Bertholdt. "For Gummy yeah"! Said Rainbow Dash. "Yeah, why not? Let's have a party for Gummy." Twilight giggled. The day has finally arrived. The Grand Galloping Gala. The girls are all expecting it to be the best night ever, while Reiner, and Bertholdt assume it to be a good place to discuss their next course of action, while Spike just wants to hang with his friends. However for the girls they learn the hard way to not always expect things to go the way they want to. Next Episode. The Best Night Ever Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Pinkie Pie Gummy Daisy Berry Punch Amethyst Star Twilight Sparkle Rarity Sweetie Belle Applejack Apple Bloom Rainbow Dash Scootaloo Fluttershy Spike Mrs. Cake Mr. Cake
Episode 1: Prologue: Friendship is Magic arc Part 1(Attack on Titan Plays) Over a hundred years ago, the Titans appeared out of nowhere, and nearly wiped out all of humanity. The survivors constructed three fifty meter tall walls in order to escape from the Titans. The walls were named, Maria, Rose, and Sina. Humanity endorsed a hundred years of piece, until one day. In the year 845 two terrifying new breeds of Titans appeared, the Colossal and the Armored, destroying the gates of Wall Maria, and allowing the Titans to devour 20% of the human population. Five years later, the Colossal Titan returned and destroyed the outer gate of Wall Rose, in Trost District. It was also discovered that some humans had the power to turn into Titans, and one month later, the identities of the Colossal and Armored Titans were finally revealed. Two new members of the Survey Corps, Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover. Trost District Year 850. "DEFEND HIM"! a voice yelled " TO THE LAST SOLDIER IF IT COMES DOWN TO THAT! EREN MUST PLUG THE GATE! DO YOUR BEST TO KEEP THE TITANS OFF HIM"! The voice ordered. Reiner, and Bertholdt were watching from a rooftop, both thinking about what was happening, they're classmate and fellow soldier Eren Yeager could turn into a Titan like them, and Annie. Now the humans behind the walls planned on using his powers to plug the hole in Trost. " "They're trying to plug the hole up with that boulder, that's insane", Bertholdt said. "They're gambling everything, for all they know if Eren gets eaten, then their best hope will be lost forever". "His death would be a problem for us too, if he goes down I'll step in with my Titan". Reiner replied. Bertholdt looked back at Eren, then again to Reiner. "What if he doesn't, we risked alot to make that hole, are we really going to let him seal it"? Bertholdt asked. "Yeah we should, five years we've searched for a lead like this, and we've finally found it" Reiner told his friend. "Um Reiner, Bertholdt"? a voice asked. The two turned around to see another soldier, Marco Bodt standing behind them. "What were you guys talking about? Reiner and Bertholdt stared back at Marco, completely shocked and unaware of how to respond as Marco continued. "You're gonna step in with your Titan" he asked Reiner before turning to Bertholdt. "And Bertholdt, you said you made that hole, what is this"? "Marco". Reiner began to reply. "Everything you heard. Was a joke". " Marco then chuckled nervously "Come on you to! This is no time to be silly! Look the Titans are all around us"! Marco said as he flew away on his ODM gear. As Marco flew to help with the mission, he began to think. "Humans can turn into Titans, I know this because Eren did so. The Colossal Titan appeared and disappeared just as fast. Which means that it must be a human too, The same goes for the Armored Titan". Marco stopped on the roof of another building to think, but when he looked behind him He saw Reiner coming at him with full force, knocking him to another roof. "REINER"! Bertholdt shouted. "Reiner! what are you doing"? a shocked Marco asked. "This is some kind of joke? Right Reiner". Marco question. "Wish I could Marco". Reiner replied "Fact is you're to sharp for something like that to fool you". "SOMEBODY HEL"- Marco began to call before Reiner covered his mouth. Another soldier arrived on the scene. Annie Leonhart. "Annie you gotta help me"! Marco begged. Annie however ignored him, and turned to Reiner. "What's going on"? Annie asked Reiner. "Reiner's acting crazy, get him off me"! Marco pleaded "He heard me and Bertholdt talking, if we let him live he'll expose us". Reiner replied. Annie looked at Reiner in shock. "You shithead. What the hell"? she asked. Bertholdt looked back and noticed a Titan heading for them. "A Titan, it's heading this way"! He called. "Annie! Take off Marco's gear"! Reiner ordered. "What why me"? Asked Annie. "Back at the headquarters, you risked your life to save Connie. Why would you put yourself in danger for him? Seems to me you're becoming sympathetic towards the enemy". Reiner replied. "Wanna convince me I'm wrong well now's the time! Think of your father, he's waiting for you to come home, he you and he are any difference from the filth within these walls then prove it here and now"! Reiner yelled. "Hey it's almost on top of us"! Bertholdt informed the other two. "ANNIE"! Reiner shouted After hearing Reiner's words, Annie began to forcibly remove Marco's Gear. "AAAAAHHAHAHHA! WHAT ARE YOU DOING"! Marco screamed. "ANNIE I THOUGHT WE WERE COMRADES! PLEASE PLEASE I DON'T WANNA DIE HERE! DON'T KILL ME"! Marco begged while Annie looked at him with tears in her eyes. Eventually she was able to take off Marco's gear and threw it into the nearby window. "You did well Annie, this is what makes us Warriors" Reiner replied shocking Marco who then remembered back to a conversation between Annie and Reiner he heard a few hours eariler, "Reiner, do we move out"? "Not yet we have to wait for them to gather" I get it, Marco thought, They we're waiting because they want the Titans to win. "Reiner, Annie, and Bertholdt then flew off leaving Marco alone on the roof. Wait". He called. "Why are you in such a rush to kill me? He asked. "I don't get it how come? WHY AREN'T YOU EVEN WILLING TO TALK TO ME WHY"!!!!!!!!! He yelled as the Titan reached him. Reiner, Annie, and Bertholdt all looked back to see the Titan grab Marco, and bite him in half. Their eyes filling with tears, Annie, and Bertholdt looked up when Reiner asked a shocking question. "Hey. Why is Marco, getting eaten"? he asked. Currently Publicly Available Information Intelligent Titans (with power to transform) An Intelligent Titan is conceived when a Pure Titan lacking intelligence consumes some other Intelligent Titan. By consuming an Intelligent Titan, it gains consciousness as well as the consumed Titan's powers. One month Later. Reiner and Bertholdt were both in a boat, sailing back to Pardis island. They had just delivered Ymir, and the Jaws Titan back to Marley. Now they were on their way back. to receive Eren Jaeger and the Coordinate. "Listen Bertholdt". Reiner said. "The first thing were going to do is rescue Annie. She had to have been discovered". "You're right, but what about Zeke"? asked Bertholdt. "He'll agree, don't worry". Reiner assured him. "And if he Doesn't"? Bertholdt asked again. "Then". Reiner had to think long and hard about what he was going to say next. "I'll Fight Him". he responded after a few minutes. "What! Are you Nuts"! Bertholdt asked. "Maybe but it might be the only way to save Annie". "You can't fight the Beast Titan Reiner! you know if he beats you, you'll loose the Armored Titan". "I'm willing to take that risk. For Annie's sake". Reiner responded. "Then let me help you". Bertholdt suggested. "No! What ever happens we're going to need the Colossal Titan for the battle with the Survey corps". Reiner said. "But Reiner"! Bertholdt began, before noticing something. "Um what's that"? he asked. "What's what Bertholdt"? Reiner pondered. "Look over there". Bertholdt said pointing in front of them. Reiner turned around, and gasped. In the middle of the ocean was a huge vortex. "What the Hell"! Reiner exclaimed. He grabbed the steering wheel of the boat, but no mater how hard he tried, the boat would not turn. "Turn us around man"! Bertholdt shouted. "I'm trying"! Yelled Reiner. However they were unable to turn in time and were both sucked into the vortex. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"! They screamed. Preview. Where are we? What happened? These are all the questions Reiner and Bertholdt are asking themselves Next Episode: New world. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Bertholdt Hoover/Colossal Titan Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Eren Jaeger/Attack Titan (Recap) Mikasa Ackermann (Recap) Armin Arlelt (Recap) Jean Kirschtien (Recap) Conny Springer (Recap) Sasha Braus (Recap) Ymir/Jaw Titan (Recap) Historia Reiss (Recap) Levi Ackermann (Recap) Erwin Smith (Recap) Hange Zoe (Recap) Moblit Berner (Recap) Dot Pyxis (Recap) Ian Dietrich (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Annie Leonhart (Flashback)
Episode 2: New World: Friendship is Magic arc Part 2"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"!!!!!!!! Reiner screamed, as both he and Bertholdt were now being pulled into the vortex. "Reiner"! Bertholdt Yelled. What do we do?! "I'm going to transform into the Armored Titan, and see if I can get us out of this"! Reiner replied. Reiner pulled out a knife he had been keeping in his pocket, but before he could slash his hand a piece of their boat hit him in the head, knocking him unconscious. "REINER"! Bertholdt yelled before he too was also knocked out cold by debris from the boat. Reiner awoke with a gasp.He looked at his surroundings, and it didn't take him long to figure out that he was in a forest. "Bertholdt"! he Yelled. "Bertholdt where are you"! "Over Here"! Bertholdt called back. Reiner turned around to see standing in front of him was a strange grey horse with wings, and Bertholdt's hair "Whoa"! he gasp. Meanwhile, Bertholdt was looking at a brown horse with a horn in it's mane, and strangely looked familiar. "Bertholdt"? asked Reiner "Reiner"? asked Bertholdt. "What happend to you"?! They both asked at the same time. "Why are you a horse with wings"? Asked Reiner? "And why are you a horse with a horn"? Bertholdt responded. "I don't know". Reiner replied "What happened"? Bertholdt asked his friend. "We got pulled into that vortex, remember"? Reiner replied. "Oh yeah". Said Bertholdt. "And I think it sent us the forest of giant trees on Paradis". Reiner replied "But then, where are the Titans, and why are we horses"? asked Bertholdt. "I don't know", answered Reiner Reiner began to look around and then started singing. Bertholdt look around, not a Titan insight. This forest should be teaming with them. The sun is out, not a cloud in the sky, but the Titans aren't here to play. Bertholdt joins in I think you're right, not one single Titan. If we really are in another world, then how will we get back home? [Reiner] We head to town! the closest one nearby, and will go from there, because [Both together] We've got the power! We will work together! [Bertholdt] And no matter what happens, Are friendship is on top [Duet] We've got the power! We will work together! [Reiner] We'll save Annie, and capture Eren. [Bertholdt.] Destroy the Walls. Bring them down [Both] And we'll win The Warrrrrrrr. We've Got The Power! Currently Publicly Available Information Manticores.Dangerous creatures that live in the Everfree Forest. Theyhave the body of a lion, the wings of a bat, and the tail of a scorpion After they're little musical number, Reiner and Bertholdt kept on walking through the forest. "Man, when is this forest going to end"? asked Bertholdt. "I don't know". Reiner replied They continued walking for what felt like hours to Bertholdt, even though it had barely been three minutes, but still Bertholdt was tired of walking through this dammed forest. He was about to complain again when he notice movement in some nearby bushes. "Hey what's that"? Reiner stopped, like Bertholdt he was also tired of walking through the forest, and he was also getting incredibly annoyed with Bertholdt's constant complaining, he sighed "What's what"? Bertholdt pointed over to the bushes. "Somethings moving inside those bushes". Reiner looked over at what Bertholdt was referring to, and noticed it as well. He immediately got into a defensive position. This confused Bertholdt extremely. "What are you doing"? "Quiet! we don't know what kind of creatures inhabit this world, let alone this forest. As far as we're concerned they could be more dangerous then Titans". Reiner began to slowly walk towards the bush, meanwhile Bertholdt was looking around worriedly, unsure if something else was going sneak up behind Reiner. "Be Careful". Bertholdt said to Reiner "We don't know what's in that bush. It could be something very dangerous like Reiner said. No I can't think like that, maybe it's something harmless. Besides, if it is a dangerous creature, Reiner can just transform into the Armored Titan, and I can turn into the Colossus Titan if we wanted to". Bertholdt thought to himself. "Bertholdt! come over here"! Reiner called out. Bertholdt hesitated at first, but soon he began to slowly walk towards Reiner. "What is it"? "Look". Reiner pointed behind the push, there was a family of bunnies behind it. Two parents, and 6 babies. The babies we're playing together, hopping and sniffing each other like no tomorrow. "Awwww". Reiner and Bertholdt said in unison. The two of them watched family of bunnies for what seemed like only a few minutes. However, this peaceful moment didn't last for very long. In almost an instant, the rabbit family went from playing, and having fun, to looking absolutely petrified by something. The two stallions we're beyond confused, what were these bunnies so afraid of. The first time it hit they didn't even see it. A shadow of a creature loomed over them. Bertholdt turned to see what was casting it, only to be swatted to the side like a rag doll. His body flew across the forest floor, and into a nearby tree. Bertholdt slammed against it,the wind knocked out of him. "BERTHOLDT"! Reiner was about to run towards the fallen Pegasus, only to be pounced on by the unknown creature. Reiner felt an immense amount of pain as it sunk it's teeth into his back legs, or hooves as they now were, and began to shake him violently. Bertholdt awoke seconds later, only to see Reiner being violently mauled by the thing that swatted Bertholdt into the tree. It was some kind of lion, with bat wings, and a scorpion tail. It had Reiner's legs in it's jaws. "REINER"! Bertholdt was frozen. He had no idea what to do, should he run. No he can't leave Reiner? Transform into the Colossal Titan? No! The explosion would destroy this forest, and the ponies who inhabited any nearby towns would see him, and probably try to kill him, and Reiner like so many others have tried to before. Bertholdt remembered back to when he and Reiner revealed their identities to the scouts, and how Mikasa came so close to offing theme both. Bertholdt looked around for anything he could use, then he saw a pile of stone, just sitting there, "I might be able to use those" Bertholdt thought to himself. Bertholdt went over to the stones, and tried to pick some up, however now that his hands we're hooves he couldn't grab them. "Shit, Shit, Shit". he exclaimed Bertholdt began to panic as he saw Reiner being mauled. "If I can't grab these stones how can I save Reiner"? Bertholdt ask It was then, Bertholdt looked at his wings, and noticed that the looked a lot like hands. "Could I use my wings to grab them"? he thought. Bertholdt decided to test his theory, and low and behold he was able to lift the stones with his wings. "Ha Ha yes"! Bertholdt Exclaimed "Hang on I'm coming Reiner"! he yelled Meanwhile Reiner was still being shook like a rag doll in the Manticore's jaws. "I have no choice". he thought "I must transform into the Armored Titan. I can use my horn to stab my self in my hoof" Reiner thought. However before he could, he felt himself stop being shook. Reiner looked up, and saw that the manticore had let him go. "Wait what?" Reiner looked around, wondering what caused that thing to release it's grip on him, he saw Bertholdt, in the air, flying, or at least trying to fly as he was clearly struggling. The manticore tried to leap at Bertholdt, but the Pegasus was too high up. "Ber............tholdt". Reiner weekly mouth before falling unconscious. Bertholdt kept on throwing the stones at the manticore. It roared angrily at him, and tried to bring him down. "Take that, and That!" Bertholdt yelled. Finally the manticore backed off, and ran straight in the opposite direction, away from Reiner. Bertholdt flew down and saw Reiner's legs, both of them we're messed up fierce. If Reiner wasn't a Titan he would be dead by now. "I have to get Reiner help" Bertholdt thought. He lifted his friend onto his back and began to run for what felt like hours, until finally he saw a clearing. Bertholdt ran towards it with Reiner still on his back. When they got out of the forest Bertholdt saw what looked to be a cottage within a tree. He ran towards it and tripped on the ground. Bertholdt looked up after he fell, and saw staring back at him and Reiner's unconscious body was a yellow Pegasus with a long pink mane, with a look of both fear, and curiosity in her eyes. Preview It was supposed to be a normal day, She was supposed to take care of her animals. Now Fluttershy has two strangers at her doorstep, in dire need of help. Next Episode. Medical Attention. Author's Note Characters in order of appearance Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Eren Yeager (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Hange Zoe (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Mobilit Berner (Flashback) Hannes (Flashback) Fluttershy
Episode 3: Medical Attetion: Friendship is Magic arc Part 3Celestia's morning sun shone brightly through Fluttershy's window. She slowly opened her eyes, and sat up in her bed. Stretching with a yawn, the young mare looked over at the clock, "Oh goodness! It's almost 9:00, I need to get everypony's breakfest. Fluttershy flew down the stairs and was about to get everyones food ready, when a small white bunny with a very annoyed look on his face appeared infront of her. " Oh I know Angel, you're hungry, don't worry I'm getting your breakfeast right now, and it's going to be your favaortie, cucummber, carrot salad" That put a smile on Angel's face, and he hopped away to let Fluttershy contiue her work. It took about a half hour to finish feeding all the animals inside her house, including Angel, who happily ate his salad. "Ok now it's time to feed the animals outside." Fluttershy opened the door to her cottage, and walked outside. She went over to her pound and began to feed the two Koi fish inside of it. "There you go, nice and healthy. Alright now it's time to water the flowers. Fluttershy filled up her watering can, and began to water her garden whilie humming a sweet meloday. "I love days like today, when the sun is shining in the sky, the birds chriping, and not a single cloud in sight. I can just tell that today is going to be a perfect day. Huh" Fluttershy was taken out of her thoughts by the sounds of russelting coming from the Everfree forest. She began to tremble in fear, because she knew all to well about the scary cretures that lived in the forest. She remember how when she was 10 years old. she got lost, and was almost eaten by a Timber wolf. If it wasn't for Angel distracting it, Fluttershy wouldn't be here. That experince has always made her wary of the everfree forest, she was about to run back into her cottage, when she saw what was making the russlting noises. A Pegasus stalion came stumbling out of the bushes, carrying a musclar Unicorn, on his back, and it wasn't hard to Fluttershy to deduce that the unicorn was injured. Fluttershy, and Bertholdt looked at eachother for what seemed like hours. Fluttershy then snapped back to reality. "Oh goodness! What Happend to you're friend?!" "We we're attacked by a strange Lion, with a scorpians tail, and bat wings!" "A Manticore?!" "Yeah!" Fluttershy looked at the two. "Hurry come inside!" "Ah! Right!" The three of them rushed into Fluttershy's cottage. "Put him on the couch!" Bertholdt oblidged, and set Reiner down on said couch. Fluttershy turned around to head into the kitchen "I'll be back with some bandges" She ran off into her kitchen and headed to the cabaniet where she kept her first aid kit. Oh my, this is hard to grasp, I'm used to healing animals, but not other ponies! She grabbed the bandges and rushed back to the living room. Reiner, and Bertholdt sat on the couch waiting for Fluttershy to return. "Reiner, you should be laying down" "Relax Bertholdt, I'm going to be fine" With that, steam began to come from Reiner's wounds, just as Fluttershy came walking back in with the supplies "Okay I'm back wi-" She dropped the bandges, and stared directly at Reiner, and gasped as his wounds magically healed. "Wh what just happend? How were you able to" "It's a magic spell" Reiner replied Fluttershy looked at the two, and sighed. "Oh, that makes sense, seeing that you are a unicorn" "Right, anyways I think it's time we introduced ourselves, My names Reiner. Reiner Braun. My friend here, is Bertholdt Hoover." "Hello" "Um hi, I'm Fluttershy" "I'm sorry, could you repet that" asked Reiner. "My name's Fluttershy" "Fluttershy?" The young girl nodded "Alright, nice to meet you Fluttershy" "You too, Bertholdt, and Reiner" Soon the three of them we're chatting away, Fluttershy telling Reiner and Bertholdt about how she came to realize that she had a gift with animals. However, she was curious about one thing. "Hey, Reiner?" "Hmm" "Um, what were you and Bertholdt doing inside the Everfree Forset? Don't you know how dangerous it is? "I don't know actually, we were knocked out, and woke up there." "Oh" "By the way, where exactlay are we"? asked Reiner "You guys are in Equestria, speficly near Ponyville". Fluttershy replied Hmmm it would seem we're not on Pardis Island "Why would yo-" Fluttershy was about the ask why they would want to know where they are when turned and looked at the clock, and her eyes suddenly filled with horror. "Oh no"! "What is it?" asked Bertholdt. "I was supposed to go to the market today! I needed to buy Lettuce, Tomatos, Carrots, and Celary." "Hey don't worry, you were so willing to help us when we didn't really need, so Bertholdt and I will help you" "Really! Thank you!" Fluttershy hugged the two stalions tightly, and smiled, there was something about her, both Reiner and Bertholdt saw it. The way Fluttershy acted, reminded them so much, of Christa. Currently Publicly Available Information Titan Regeneration. Those with the power to become Titans possess an inherent ability to regenerate. Their limbs can be dismembered and their internal organs destroyed, but as long as they survive, their bodies will regenerate back to normal given sufficient time Twenty Minutes Later. The three of them arrived at the market, and began to look for what Fluttershy needed to buy. "Okay first, lettuce" Fluttershy looked, and saw the lettuce stand, she was happy to see that there was no line, and she walked up to the stand "Oh good moring Fluttershy" "Good moring Mrs. Tulip, one roll of lettuce please" "Sure thing, it's the last one. That'll be one bit please". Fluttershy paid for the lettuce" "Thank you". She said "No problem, ever since you helped my cat feel better I feel like I owe you" Mrs. Tulip replied. Fluttershy smiled and headed back over to Reiner and Bertholdt, and the three of them contiued their shopping, soon enough they finshed, and where just about to head out when they heard a voice call out to them "Fluttershy, is that you" Fluttershy turned around to see her friend Rarity, and her little sister Sweetie Belle walking towards them. "Oh good moring you two" "Hello Ms. Fluttershy" "Now Sweetie Belle, Fluttershy is our friend, there's no need to be so formal." "Sorry Rarity." "So what brings you here today?" "Oh I had to do some last minute shopping." "Oh I hope it's going well." "It is." Reiner Replied, as he and Bertholdt walked towards them. "Oh Fluttershy, who are these two?" "Oh Rarity these are two new friends I made. Guys this is Rarity, and her little Sister Sweetie Belle. "Good day ladies." said Reiner "Good moring." Bertholdt replied Rarity, Sweetie Belle, I'd like you two to meet, Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover" "Hello" said Rarity. "Hi" Sweetie Belle responed politely. Soon the five of them were talking about what happend to Reiner in the Everfree Forest. "My goodness darling, so steam came out of your wounds, and caused them to heal?" "That's correct." "If you don't mind me asking, but where did you learn that spell, because I've never heard of a unicorn be able to do something like that." " Well you see. But before Reiner finished, he was intterupted by a loud explosion. "What was That"?! he asked. "It sounded like an explosion, and I think it came from Sweet Apple Acres". Fluttershy stated. "Does anyone live there"? Reiner asked. "Yeah our friend Applejack, and her family". Rarity replied That was enough for Reiner, and he ran off into the direction of the explosion. "Reiner! Wait up" yelled Bertholdt, as he follwed after his friend. "Come on!" stated Rarity, as she, Fluttershy, and Sweetie Belle, followed close behind. Preview A loud explosion coming from the north sends Reiner and Bertholdt into action. Together with their three new friends, they rush to the scene. Next Episode. Introductions. Author's Note Characters in Order of apperance. Fluttershy Angel Bunny Bertholdt Hoover Reiner Braun Historia Reiss (Vision) Mrs. Tulip Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Twist Diamond Tiara Thunderlanes Derpy Hooves Rarity Sweetie Belle
Episode 4: Introductions: Friendship is Magic arc Part 4 At Sweet Apple Acres Apple Bloom was inside the barn cleaning it out. Their family dog had made a mess inside, and Apple Bloom had offered to clean it up for her family. After about an hour and a half of working she was finally done. "Alright, now that's done it's time to." Apple Bloom was intteruppted by a loud bang coming from inside the house "WOAH!" She exclaimed before heading into the house. "Inside the house, Apple Bloom's older brother Big Macantoshi was coughing, as he was fanning away a bunch of smoke, Applejack meanwhile was waving an offen mit over the smoke alarm to keep it from going off just as Apple Bloom walked in. "What in Equestria happened in here." She asked. "Big Macintosh burnt breakfeast". Applejack stated looking over at Big Mac who smiled sheepishly. After hearing that Apple Bloom just sighed, and stared at her brother as Applejack walked up to him. I told ya to keep watch over the oven, and not get distracted. Applejack said before turning to Apple Bloom. Apple Bloom sugar, why don't ya go in the living room, and just wait for a bit. Apple Bloom nodded, and walked out of the kitchen. She was just about to sit down on the couch, when she heard frantic knocking at the door. "Apple Bloom can you get that"? Applejack asked from the kitchen. Apple Bloom got up, walked over to the door, and opened it. Standing in the doorway was Rarity, Fluttershy, Sweetie Belle, and two stalions she's never seen before. "Oh hello Rarity, Sweetie Belle, and Fluttershy." She greeted. "What brings you here, and who are those two stalions with you?" She then asked. Rarity was the first to speak. "Apple Bloom darling are you alright we all heard a loud bang come from here". Rarity stated Apple Bloom looked at her confused before replying. "Yeah everypony's fine." "Then what was that bang"? asked Fluttershy. "Oh that was Big Mac. He burnt breakfest." Apple Bloom replied. "Oh, okay". Fluttershy replied. Apple Bloom nodded. "Right, and now um. You're friends"? She asked pointing to the Unicorn and Pegagus Stalion with them. "Oh. Bertholdt, Bertholdt Hoover". the Pegasus stated. "And I'm Reiner Braun". The unicorn replied. Apple Bloom smiled at the two of them. "It's nice to meet you two". she smiled. "So everypony's okay"? asked Rarity. Apple Bloom nodded. "Other then burnt pancakes, I'd say we're all good." Rarity sighed in relief after hearing that everything was okay. "Well that's good, sorry to bother, will just be going now". "Oh no, please come in". Apple Bloom stated. "Um I don't know about that, I mean you all seem pretty busy". Fluttershy replied. "Don't worry it's alright". Apple Bloom insisted. "Hold on let me get Applejack". Apple Bloom stated as she walked back into the kitchen. "Applejack, we have guest". Apple Bloom told her sister. Appejack turned around. "Really, who is it"? She asked. "Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Fluttershy, and two other stalions". Apple Bloom replied. This earned Applejack's curiosty. "Two new stalions you say"? Apple Bloom nodded in response. "Well I'll be." Hey why don't you invite them inside, and I'll fix up a proper breakfest". Applejack told Apple Bloom while gestering to Big Mac who chuckled nervously. Later, All of them we're sitting in the living room eating proper pancakes that Applejack had whipped up. "So, Mr. Braun. and Mr. Hoover, It's very nice to meet the both of you, Ya'll seem like very fine gentelmen". Applejack stated. "Thank you". Reiner replied. "So anyways, how did you meet my friends"? Applejack asked Fluttershy spoke up to answer that question. "You see, I met Reiner and Bertholdt, when I was watering my garden, they came stumbling out of the Everfree Forest, and told me that Reiner was attacked by a manticore" The two farmers looked at Reiner in shock "Well Damn" Applejack replied "Oh no! Are ya alright?" Asked Apple Bloom "Don't Worry" I'm fine Reiner replied "Oh well that's good." Apple Bloom replied. "Well, I'd say". Applejack was about to say something when there was more frantic knocking on the door. "Now who could that be"? Applejack asked as she went up to the door and opened it". Outside stood a pegagus with a rainbow colored mane. "Rainbow Dash? What are you doing here"? Applejack asked the pegagus. "The pegagus named Rainbow Dash walked into the house. "Is everything alright? I heard an explosion". she asked worriedly. Applejack smiled. "Oh don't worry, everything's fine. Big Mac just messed up dinner". Applejack explain. "Oh. Is that it"? asked Rainbow Dash. Applejack nodded. "Eeyup. Come on in, You ain't the only one who's shown up today". she stated as she led Rainbow Dash inside. Once inside, Rainbow Dash noticed the others in the living room. "Oh, hey Rarity, Fluttershy, Sweetie Belle". she greeted the other three ponies. The three of them greeted Rainbow Dash with a smile, and Rainbow Dash smiled back. Then she noticed Bertholdt and Reiner. "Oh, I see you girls made some new friends". Rainbow Dash stated. Everyone looked at Reiner, and Bertholdt, and smiled. Currently Publicly Available Information Sweet Apple Acres. A farm located in Ponyville, that grows delicous Apples. It is owned and run by Granny Smith, and her three grandchildren, Big Macintosh, Applejack, and Apple Bloom. It took about 10 minitues to explain the whole situation to Rainbow Dash. "Well Damn". She muttered. "That's what I said". Applejack replied, Rainbow Dash turned to face the two stalions. "Well it's very nice to meet the both of you". She stated. "Likewise". Reiner replied. Applejack smiled "Well, now that we've all been "EVERYPONY"!!!!! Applejack was interuppted by a loud an enerjectic voice. "Oh no". Rainbow Dash muttered Within seconds, The door of the apple family house flew open, and the eight ponies we're knocked down by another pink pony with a poofy mane. "WHAT HAPPEND IS EVERYPONY OK I HEARED AN EXPLOSION!" "Pinkie Pie darling, we're all fine, now would you please get off of us". Rarity responeded "Oh heh heh sorry about that, I just heared that explosion and." It was then she noticed Reiner and Bertholdt (GASP) She rushed over to them "HI I'M PINKIE PIE WHO ARE YOU ARE YOU KNEW HERE BECAUSE I'VE NEVER SEEN YOU SO THEREFORE YOU MUST BE NEW" the pink pony exclamied. "Um yes, we are new" Reiner confirmed, "I'm Reiner, and this is Bertholdt". "Well you two need to be welcomed", Pinkie Pie stated, She then pulled out a small wagaon looking think with weired looking horns out of it, seemingly out of nowhere. The thing then started playing music and Pinkie started to sing Welcome Welcone Welcome! A fine welcome to you! Welcome Welcome Welcome! I say how do you do! Welcome Welcome Welcome! I said Hip Hip Hooray! Welcome Welcome Welcome! To Ponyville Today! She then stoped singing "Wait for it", The wagon then shot out a small blast of Coffeti at Bertholdt, and Reiner "Uh, thanks for that, that was um pretty entertaing", Reiner responed "So, how did you guys meet my friends"? asked Pinkie Pie. Fluttershy then explained to Pinkie Pie, the whole story. "Woah" Stated Pinkie Pie. "Anyways, thank ya'll again for coming to check on us". "Yeah, you don't have to repay us in anyway.It's what we do, because Bertholdt, and I, are Warriors" Reiner responed "What do you mean Warriors"? asked Sweetie Belle Reiner smiled. "It's just something we called ourselves when we we're around you age, and we never stopped "Oh ok. Sweetie Belle repiled "Yeah that's cool," Replied Apple Bloom. "Anyways, You know what time it is", asked Pinkie Pie "Um, no" Bertholdt Replied "IT'S TIME FOR YOU'RE WELCOME PARTY!" Pinkie Shouted, as she pulled out her Party canyon, and pulled the trigger Preview As the warriors get to know everypony, Reiner finds himself wondering about their situation, and if there is a way for him and Bertholdt to return home. Next Episode. The Party. Author's Note Characters in Order of Apperance Apple Bloom Big Macintosh Applejack Rarity Fluttershy Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Sweetie Belle Rainbow Dash Pinkie Pie
Episode 5: The Party: Friendship is Magic arc Part 5Reiner and Bertholdt opened their eyes to see themselves in what appered to be a bakery surround by serveal other ponies , and a big banner that said WELCOME TO PONYVILE BERTHOLDT AND REINER!. To say the two of them we're shocked would be the understatment of the century. Bertholdt's jaw almost hit the floor when he saw what was in front of them "Wh wh wh what how when why who where" Reiner just looked around in shock, "All this for two complete strangers"? "Of course!" Pinkie replied. "You're are new friends now, so we have to throw a party for you, it's mandtory" Bertholdt looked at her confused "Mandtory"? "Of course, whenever a new pony is welcomed to ponyville we need to throw them a welcome party to show we care". Pinkie explained Pinkie begins to sing When I was young, I never knew happiness I lived on a farm, with those dammed rocks. My family was unhappy, I wanted to help, so one day I decied to show them a great time. SO I GATHER UP THE BALLONS, BAKED A DELICOUS CAKE, INVITED THEM INTO ARE BARN AND WE DANCED THE NIGHT AWAY! EVERPONY HAD A SMILE ON THEIR FACE, and that's how I became a party pony. Everypony in the room clapped they're hooves after Pinkie's song. Reiner, walked up to the front counter and rang the bell, A female earth pony walked up to him Hello there, I'm Mrs. Cake, what can I get for you. "Coffee", please Reiner Repiled Just Coffee? asked Mrs. Cake "Yes please" Reiner Confirmed "Alright coming right up" As she left to prepare his drink, Reiner began to ponder what was happening "How did Bertholdt and I get here, and more importantly, why is this town inhabited by colorful talking poines? Was Eren somehow able to unlock a new abilty of the Founding Titan, and project an image of us, For all we know Bertholdt and I could be tyed up in a chamber underground by the scouts". Reiner was still thinking about this when he heard a voice snap him out of his thoughts. "Mr. Braun" Reiner looked down, and saw Sweetie Belle looking up at him confused. "Are you ok"? "Yeah of course, why are you asking". "Because, well, you we're kind of making a scary face". "Oh, heh sorry about that, I was just uh thinking about how impressive it is how Pinkie Pie was able to throw this party so fast for Bertholdt and I". "Oh yes Pinkie Pie is the best party planner in all of equestria!" Sweetie Belle stated "Heh that's beliveable". Reiner said to himself "Well ok then, sorry for bothering you". Sweetie Belle apologized. "Hey don't worry." about Reiner repiled Sweetie Belle left Reiner and went back to Rarity, and two older ponies who Reiner assumed we're they're parents. Reiner gave a small smile just as Mrs. Cake returned with his Coffee. "Here you are sir" "Thank you" Reiner stood up and went to find Bertholdt, after looking around for around 5 mintues he found him talking to Fluttershy. "Hey what are you to taking about" "Oh hey Reiner, Fluttershy was just telling me about how she wants to one day open up an animal sanctuary". "And Bertholdt was talking about how you two have been friends since childhood". "Oh, he did, did he" "Yeah" Fluttershy said. "Wait here I'll get us some cupcakes". Fluttershy left to go up to the counter. Reiner looked at Bertholdt, "Reiner, I know what you're going to ask, and No I did not tell her about our Titan abilties or anyhting like that". "Ok as long as you didn't, we need to keep are abilties a secret for as long as we can". As the finshed Fluttershy came trotting back up to them, Reiner noticed Bertholdt was blushing as Fluttershy was coming up. "Really Bertholdt, I thought you had feelings for Annie?" Reiner whispered to the Colossal Titan. "Wh wh what are you taking about" Bertholdt asked embarrsed. "Dude come on, yes she's cute but she's still a horse, if anyone's going to date a horse, It's going to be Jean". "Oh Shut Up" Bertholdt retorted. Currently Publicly Available Information Scream .Among those with the Power of the Titans some have a special 'Scream.' While the Female Titan can use a 'Scream' to control Pure Titans, the Founding Titan has a similar ability and is believed to possess the power to alter human memories as well. Fluttershy returned with three chocloated cupcakes for the them, "Hey guys what were you talking about" Reiner smirked. "Oh nothing, Bertholdt was just telling about. He couldn't finsh before Bertholdt intterupted him "About how great this party is". Reiner looked at Bertholdt in annoyance. "Right" Fluttershy smiled at the two of them "Yeah Pinkie Pie is a great party planner. She throws one for everypony who comes to Ponyville". "So we've heared". Reiner said Fluttershy looked at the two stallions she had only receantly met, she was usually extremaly shy around ponies, but somehow Reiner and Bertholdt made her feel safe, "You guys are really the first ponies I've really gotten close to since Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie". Fluttershy said "Really?" Bertholdt asked (Eye Water Plays) Yeah, you may not know this but I'm actually really shy, my friends most of my friends are the animals that live in my cottage. Reiner looked at Fluttershy who had tears in her eyes. "Fluttershy, are you okay" "Yeah I'm just thinking about how hard it is to be alone." I'm weak and frail, but you two are brave and strong, I'm mean the way you saved Apple Bloom, Bertholdt, you and Reiner are both really brave, I bet you've done alot of good" Bertholdt and Reiner looked at each other as both of them remembered back to that day "Reiner?! What are you doing?" Marco asked in terror "YOU DAMN TRAITORS"! Screamed Eren Yeager "Reiner! Bertholdt"! Fluttershy snapped the two of them out of their thoughts. "Are you to okay" the pegasus asked. Reiner stared at her, "Uh yeah! We're fine, Right Bertholdt"? "Uh, right." Fluttershy looked at the two unsure of how to respone "Oh, okay". "Hey, Bertholdt and I are going to head out, okay Fluttershy"? "Yeah, sure". Fluttershy responded With that Reiner and Bertholdt left sugar cube corner, just as Applejack, and Apple Bloom came up to Fluttershy. "Uh, where are thoes two going", asked Applejack "I don't know, they said they had something to do." Fluttershy responded "Well It's none of our bussniess really," said Apple Bloom "Yeah you're right Apple Bloom I just hope that whatever it is they'll ask for our help", Applejack replied. Preview Two weeks go by, two weeks in this new world, and Reiner and Bertholdt's journey has just begun Next Episode. The Mare in The Moon Part 1. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Bertholdt Hoover/Colossal Titan Pinkie Pie Mrs. Cake Eren Yeager (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Dina Fritz (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Connie Springer (Flashback) Sweetie Belle Rainbow Dash DJ Pon-3 Octavia Melody Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Fluttershy Marco Bodt (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Historia Reiss (Flashback) Ymir/Jaw Titan (Flashback) Erwin Smith (Flashback) Applejack Apple Bloom
Episode 6: The Mare in The Moon Part 1: Friendship is Magic arc Part 6Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria. there were two regal sisters who ruled together and created harmony for all the land. To do this, the eldest used her unicorn powers to raise the sun at dawn; the younger brought out the moon to begin the night. Thus, the two sisters maintained balance for their kingdom and their subjects, all the different types of ponies. But as time went on, the younger sister became resentful. The ponies relished and played in the day her elder sister brought forth, but shunned and slept through her beautiful night. One fateful day, the younger unicorn refused to lower the moon to make way for the dawn. The elder sister tried to reason with her, but the bitterness in the young one's heart had transformed her into a wicked mare of darkness: Nightmare Moon. She vowed that she would shroud the land in eternal night. Reluctantly, the elder sister harnessed the most powerful magic known to ponydom: the Elements of Harmony. Using the magic of the Elements of Harmony, she defeated her younger sister, and banished her permanently in the moon. The elder sister took on responsibility for both... sun and moon. A young purple unicorn sat under a tree reading a book about the legend of nightmare moon. "and harmony has been maintained in Equestria for generations since". Hmmm, elementes of harmony. I know I've heared of those before... But where? Twilight Sparkle ran back to her house, as she was crossing over a bridge she trotted by three of her old classmates from Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. A school in which Twilight was the top student "There you are, Twilight! Moon Dancer is having a little get-together in the west castle courtyard. You wanna come"? "Oh sorry girls...... I've got a lot of studying to catch up on". The three unicorns looked at her in dissapointment before trotting off "Does that pony do anything except study? I think she's more interested in books than friends". Twilight kept running while thinking to herself "I know I've heard of the Elements of Harmony". Twilight ran up to her room and burst open the door. "Spike"! "Spi-ike"! "Spike"? Spike, a baby dragon groaned as he got up after being knocked out by the Twilight bursting through the door. "There you are. Quick, find me that old copy of Predictions and Prophecies" Twilight noticed a small gift box in Spikes claws that had now been destroyed. "What's that for" Spike looked down and sighed "Well it was a gift for Moon Dancer but...." Twilight was not amused by Spike's actions with this whole party thing. "Oh Spike you know we don't have time for that sort of thing." Spike looked at Twilight in shock, he never understood why she was always so focused on Studying. "But we're on a break" Twilight however wasn't listening as she was to busy levitating books in order to find the one she was looking for "No, no, no... no, no, no"! She became increbibley frustrated at not being able to find the book. "Spike"! "It's over here!" Spike called after having found it on another shelf. Twilight praictly dragged Spike over to her and took the book. "Ah Elements, Elements E, E, E... Aha! Elements of Harmony, see: Mare in the Moon? Spike looke up in confusion as to what Twilight referanced. "Mare in the moon? But that's just an old ponies tale" Again Twilight wasn't listening to what Spike had to say, as she was too focused on reading the Mare in the Moon entry in the book. "Mare, mare... aha! The Mare in the Moon, myth from olden pony times. A powerful pony who wanted to rule Equestria, defeated by the Elements of Harmony and imprisoned in the moon. Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about nighttime eternal! Spike! Do you know what this means"? "No- WHOA" Spike fell off of the ladder he was on, fourtently Twilight manged to catch him before he hit the ground. "Take a note please, to the Princess" "Okie Dokie." Twilight knew that her teacher and mentor Princess Celestia needed to know about what she discoverd. she began resiting the things she wanted Spike to write in the letter (進撃pf20130218巨人 plays) "My dearest teacher, my continuing studies of pony magic have led me to discover that we are on the precipice of disaster! Before Twilight could contiue however Spike interuptted her because he was having trobule spelling the word she had just said to him. "Hold on. Preci... preci..." Twilight decieded to use a different word insted. "Threshold" Spike however was still confused. "Threh..... Thinking of what else to use Twilight came up with the easiest word she could think of. "Uh, brink? that something really bad is about to happen! For you see, the mythical Mare in the Moon is in fact Nightmare Moon, and she's about to return to Equestria, and bring with her eternal night! Something must be done to make sure this terrible prophecy does not come true. I await your quick response. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle." Spike just finshed writing down Twilight's name "Twi... light Spar... kle. Got it"! Twilight's eyes lit up in delight. "Great! Send it"! Spike gave her a confused look. "Now?" "Of course!" Twilight replied. Spike however was still hesitating to send the letter to the princess. "Uh, I dunno, Twilight, Princess Celestia's a little busy getting ready for the Summer Sun Celebration. And it's like, the day after tomorrow". However that only gave Twilight more of a reason to send the letter right away "That's just it, Spike. The day after tomorrow is the thousandth year of the Summer Sun Celebration! It's imperative that the Princess is told right away"! Again Spike was confused by the word Twilight had said "Impera... impera. "Important"! Twilight exclamied. Twilight rushed foward causing Spike to fall off her back "Whoa! Okay, okay"! Spike then used his fire breath to send the letter to Celestia. "There it's on its way. But I wouldn't hold your breath"... Twilight however was unfazed by Spike's concern "Oh, I'm not worried, Spike. The Princess trusts me completely. In all the years she's been my mentor she's never once doubted me." Almost imedidedtly Spike belched up a response letter from the princess Spike cleared his throat and began to read the letter "My deareast most faithful student Twilight, You know that I value your diligence and that I trust you completely". Twilight smiled in deilght as Spike contiued reading but you simply must stop reading those dusty old books! This caused Twilight to gasp in shock Twilight and Spike were on a carage heading towards the town of Ponyvile as Spike contiued to read what Celestia had tasked for Twilight. "My dear Twilight, there is more to a young pony's life than studying, so I'm sending you to supervise the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration in this year's location: Ponyville. And, I have an even more essential task for you to complete: make some friends"! That last statment made Twilight groan in disgust. Spike however tried to cheer her up. "Look on the bright side, Twilight. The Princess arranged for you to stay in a library. Doesn't that make you happy"? That did cheer Twilight up. "Yes, yes it does. You know why? Because I'm right! I'll check on the preparations as fast as I can, then get to the library to find some proof of Nightmare Moon's return. " "And then will you make friends?" Spike asked. Twilight however had no intentions on doing so and she made sure to make that clear to her dragon assisant. " She said to check on preparations. I am her student, and I'll do my royal duty, but the fate of Equestria does not rest on me making friends. " The carage landed in the center of town as Twilight and Spike got off "Thank you sirs". Spike looked around the town eager to meet the ponies of the town. he then noticed Pinke Pie walking up to them, 'Maybe the ponies in Ponyville have interesting things to talk about. Come on, Twilight, just try"! Twilight relecutantly agreed to try and talk to the pink earth pony "Um.........Hello" Pinkie Pie however only gasped and ran off leaving both Twilight and Spike very confused. "Well, that was interesting alright." Spike sighed in defeat The two of them made their way to their first stop, Sweet Apple Acres, as Spike was reading off the checklist Celestia gave them. "Summer Sun Celebration official overseer's checklist. Number one, banquet preparations: Sweet Apple Acres. " "Yee Haw"! Twilight and Spike saw Applejack running up to a tree and bucking it with her back hooves. Twilight sighed. "Let's get this over with" She walked up to the earth pony. " Good afternoon. My name is Twilight Sparkle—" Applejack took Twilight's hoove and began to shake it extremaly fast. " Well, howdy-doo, Miss Twilight, a pleasure makin' your acquaintance. I'm Applejack. We here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like makin' new friends! " "Friends? Well actually". Twilight began only for Applejack to interupt her "So, what can I do you for"? Spike snickered at the conversation. Twilght cleared her throat and explained to Applejack the reason she was there "Well, I am in fact here to supervise preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. And you're in charge of the food? " "We sure as surgar are! Would you care for a sample? Applejack asked. "As long as it doesn't take to long." Twilight responed. Applejack then ran over to a tringale and began to ring it "Soup's on Every Pony"! Almost immeideltly Twilight and Spike we're surronded by a bunch over other ponies "Now, why don't I introduce y'all to the Apple family"? "Thanks, but I really need to hurry" Twilight began only to again be intterupted by Applejack. "This here's Apple Fritter. Apple Bumpkin. Red Gala. Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Caramel Apple, Apple Strudel, Apple Tart, Baked Apples, Apple Brioche, Apple Cinnamon Crisp... Big McIntosh, Apple Bloom and Granny Smith. Up'n'attem, Granny Smith, we got guests". The elderly earth pony woke up and walked up to the table. "Wha..? Soup's on? I'm up, here I come, ahm comin"'... Applejack smiled at Twilight and Spike. "Why'd I'd say you're already part of the family." That statment caused Twilight to spit out the food she was basicaly force fed "Okay, well, I can see the food situation is handled, so we'll be on our way" "Aren't you gonna stay for brunch"? Apple Bloom asked with pleading eyes "Oh god she's adorable"! Both Twilight and Spike thought in their heads. Twilight felt bad for the little filly, but she needed to complete her task, however Twilight then noticed something about Apple Bloom. "You, have Amber Eyes". Apple Bloom gave Twilight a confused look, of course she knew her eyes were amber, but that really didn't seem to matter to her, or anyone. "What do you mean"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Oh uh, nothing Twilight replied. She continued to stare at Apple Bloom for a bit. "This filly. She's so pretty". Twilight thought to herself before finally speaking again. "Alright, will stay". Apple Bloom beamed with pure delight, but Twilight's statment lingered in the back of her head. After her meeting with the Apple Family Twilight and Spike we're now walking in town to check on the weather. Spike read what the list said "Food's all taken care of, next is weather". Twilight groaned in pain after eating the food. "Ugh... I ate too much pie"... Spike however was too busy looking in the sky to listen to Twilight. "Hmm, there's supposed to be a Pegasus pony named Rainbow Dash clearing the clouds". Twilight looked up and saw that there we're still plenty of clouds up in the sky. "Well, she's not doing a very good job, is she"? As if on cue Rainbow Dash swooped by knocking Twilight into a mud puddle. "Uh, 'scuse me"? the pegasus replied. Twilight sighed Rainbow Dash laughed "Lemme help you". She went and grabbed a cloud, she then jumped on it causing it to rain on Twilight. Dash laughed again " Oops, I guess I overdid it. Um, uh, how about this?" Rainbow Dash spun around Twilight causing her mane to become rather poofy. "My very own patented Rain-Blow Dry! No no. Don't thank me. You're quite welcome". Both Rainbow Dash and Spike then bursted out laughing at Twilight's sitiouation, which Twilight didn't find funny one bit. "Let me guess. You're Rainbow Dash". " The one and only. Why, you heard of me"? asked the cyan colored pony. "I heard you were supposed to be keeping the sky clear. [sigh] I'm Twilight Sparkle, and the Princess sent me to check on the weather. " Rainbow Dash however ignored the unicorn. "Yeah, yeah, that'll be a snap. I'll do it in a jiffy. Just as soon as I'm done practicing. " Twilight become confused. "Practicing for what"? "The Wonderbolts! They're gonna perform at the Celebration tomorrow, and I'm gonna show 'em my stuff"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed exciedlty. "The" Wonderbolts'? Twilght asked. "Yep"! Rainbow Dash replied. The most talented flyers in all of Equestria? "That's them". Twilight scoffed. "Pfft! Please. They'd never accept a Pegasus who can't even keep the sky clear for one measly day". That statment caused Rainbow Dash to become a little offened. "Hey, I could clear this sky in ten seconds flat". Twilight smirked. "Prove it" Rainbow Dash shot up and began to kick away all the clouds in the sky. "Loop-de-loop around, and wham! What'd I say? Ten. Seconds. Flat. I'd never Ponyville hanging." Twilight was in shock which ammused Rainbow Dash. " You should see the look on your face. Ha! You're a laugh, Twilight Sparkle. I can't wait to hang out some more." "Wow, she's amazing" Spike Laughed. Twilight groaned again. Spike tried to cheer up by complemting her messed up hair. "Wait! It's kinda pretty once you get used to it"! Twilight and Spike headed into the Carousel Boitquie to check on the decarations for the celebration. "Decorations. Beautiful"... Twilight smiled in aggreement. "Yes, the décor is coming along nicely. This ought'a be quick. I'll be at the library in no time. Beautiful indeed". Spike however revealed that it wasn't the decorations he was talking about, it was the unicorn Rarity. "Not the décor, her"! Rarity was trying to decied on what draped to use for the party. "No, no, no, oh! Goodness no". Spike began to get nervous as he began to clear himself off. "How are my spines? Are they straight"? Twilight walked up again began to talk to the white unicorn. "Good afternoon— " Rarity however stopped Twilight before she could go any further "Just a moment, please! I'm 'in the zone', as it were. Oh, yes! Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why, Rarity, you are a talent. Now, um, how can I help yo"— Rarity gasped at the sight of Twilight's mane. "Oh my stars, darling! Whatever happened to your coiffure"?! Twilight looked confused before realizng what Rarity was talking about. "Oh, you mean my mane? Well, it's a long story. I'm just here to check on the decorations, and then I'll be out of your hair"! Rarity however was not satisfiyed with that ansewer. "Out of my hair? What about your hair?! Rarity began to forcibly drag Twilight into the back room. "Wait! Where are we going?! Help"! Inside the back room Rarity was having Twilight try on serveal dresses. "No, no, uh-uh. Too green. Too yellow. Too poofy. Not poofy enough. Too frilly. Too... shiny. Now go on, my dear. You were telling me where you're from". Twilight began to reply as the strap on her back was being stretched out, causing her a great deal of pain. " I've... been sent... from Canterlot... to—" Upon hearing Canterlot, Rarity gasped in delight. Canterlot?! Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication! I have always dreamed of living there! I can't wait to hear all about it! We are gonna be the best of friends, you and I... Emeralds?! What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies! Rarity ran off and Twilight took the opportunity to escape. "Quick! Before she decides to dye my coat a new color! " Spike sighed as they left. Outside Spike was talking about Rarity. "Wasn't she wonderful"? "Focus, Casanova. What's next on the list"? Twilight asked. Spike checked. "Lights"! he replied. The two of them walked up to a house. "The two stalions who are suppose to be in charge of the lights live here." Spike explained. Twilight sighed "Ok, let's get this over with." "What do you mean there not ready?! The Celebrations tonight! Bertholdt! Reiner! Reiner took a deep breath and spoke to Twilight. I'm sorry kid, but like I said, they're not ready yet. I promise you though we'll have them before the celebration. Reiner's words made Twilight feel a little better. Okay then. Come on Spike let's go. As they started to get up however, Bertholdt spoke up. "Hold on, you two are oringnaly from Canterlot right? "Yeah. that's right." Spike replied. "It must be hard, moving to a new town where you know next to know one, belive me I know what that feelings like." "Oh, where were you two from before moving here to ponyville?" Spike asked "Oh Reiner and I? We come from a small village up in the moutains in the far north." Twilight became confused. "Why did you leave your old home"? she asked. "It happend around dawn. The animals started to become anxious, and I kept hearing this strange noise. I soon realized it was the sound of Death getting closer and closer. I opened my window". A flashback shows Bertholdt staring at a hydra out his window. Spike gulped as Bertholdt contiued. "I. don't really remember much of what happened afterwards, I think everypony just panicked." Reiner put his hoof on Bertholdt's shoulder. "Hey, why are you going on about this?" "Sorry, what I'm trying to say, is that if you think about it, the four of us are pretty similar." Bertholdt Replied. "Hey." Said Reiner. "Sorry. Anyways come on, let's go get those lights." "Really"! Twilight exlcaimed. "Sure". Bertholdt smiled Reiner and Bertholdt took Twilight and Spike into a patch of woods behind their house. It was dark so they had to use lanterns in order to see where they we're going. "I've been told that ponyville is a place where different types of ponies go to make friends. I moved here looking for just that, friendship. The ponies in my old village would make fun of me for wanting to care about something like friendship" Bertholdt explained. Spike felt sorry for the pegasus and tried to cheer him up. "There's nothing wrong with wanting friendship Bertholdt, it's something every pony wants." "Is it? I'm going to return to the hometown we lost, that's all I care about now. I will do it, no matter what" Reiner responed. Bertholdt then looked back at Twilight. "What about you? Why did you move here?" "Well I'm mainly here to check on things for the summer sun celebration, but......." (Heartbeat Plays) Twilight looked down, hesitating to answer, but she decied she had too. "I belive that the mare in the moon is the evil Nightmare Moon, and tommorow she'll escape from the moon and plunge Equestria into eternal night, So I've been studying the Elements of Harmony as they are the only things that could stop her." Reiner and Bertholdt looked back at Twilight. Reiner then spoke up "So you think that tommorow Nightmare Moon will return right?" "Yeah, and if she does Equestria is doomed!" Twilight responed. The four of them stopped on the edge of a ledge, and Twilight looked out at the sight before her. It was the most beautiful thing she ever saw. Reiner then spoke again. "I doubt the legend is true, but if it is, and if Nightmare Moon does return, you'll find away to stop her. I know you will, I can see it in you. Twilight Sparkle, and Spike was it"? Twilight smiled at the unicorn stalion. "Yes. Thank you. Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover right?" Currently Publicly Available Information Summer Sun Celebration. A special holiday celebrated in Equestria to comenrate the defeat of Nightmare Moon. It is held in ponyville in the year 850, roughly two months after the Colossal Titan breached the gates of Trost District. Twilight and Spike were walking in the park. Twilight had a small smile on her face, unlike the other ponies she's met so far she was plesently suprised by how calm Reiner and Bertholdt were. she looke at Spike who had the list in his claws. "Ok Spike, what's last"? Spike looked at the list. "Music." The two of them then heared some birds singing, and saw Fluttershy conducting a bird chior for the celebration. She soon however stopped as a blujay was singing off key "Oh my. Um, stop please, everyone, umm. Excuse me, sir? I mean no offense, but your rhythm is just a teeny-tiny bit off. Now, follow me, please. A-one, a-two, a-one two three- " "Hello!" Twilight called out. which caused Fluttershy to yelp in suprise, and the birds to fly away "Oh my, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to frighten your birds. I'm just here to check up on the music and it's sounding beautiful. I'm Twilight Sparkle. What's your name?" Fluttershy tried to introduce herself, but was too shy to. "Um... I'm Fluttershy". " I'm sorry, what was that?" "Um... My name is Fluttershy". "Didn't quite catch that". The birds soon returned and Twilight decieded it was time for her to get going. "Well, um, it looks like your birds are back, so I guess everything's in order. Keep up the good work!" Twilight went up to Spike who appeared from behind a bush. "Oookay. Well, that was easy". Fluttershy gasped in delight when she saw Spike however. "A baby dragon"! Fluttershy knocked Twilight out of the way to get a closer look at Spike. " Oh, I've never seen a baby dragon before. He's sooo cute!" Spike smiled in amusemnt. "Well, well, well...!" "Oh my, he talks. I didn't know dragons could talk. That's just so incredibly wonderful I, I just don't even know what to say!" Twilight then lifted Spike on to her back and began to walk away. "Well, in that case we'd better be going". Fluttershy however followed them. "Wait, wait! What's his name"? "I'm Spike." "Hi Spike. I'm Fluttershy. Wow, a talking dragon! And what do dragons talk about"? "Well, what do you wanna know"? he asked "Absolutely everything". This caused Twilight to once again groan in frustration " Well... I started out as a cute little purple and green egg..." The three of them kept on walking as Spike contiued telling his life story to Fluttershy. " ...and that's the story of my whole entire life! Well, up until today. Do you wanna hear about today"? "Oh, yes, please"! Fluttershy exclamied It was then Twilight quickly stopped infront of the door of the libriay she and Spike were stating at. "Gyah"! Spike yelped "I am so sorry, how did we get here so fast? This is where I'm staying while in Ponyville and my poor baby dragon needs his sleep". Spike become offened by that statment. " No I don't— whoa!" Twilight knocked Spike off of her back. "Aww, wook at dat, he's so sweepy he can't even keep his widdle bawance"! Fluttershy quickly picked up Spike. "Poor thing, you simply must get into bed"... She tried to go into the libiray only for Twilight to pull her back out. "Yes, yes, we'll get right on that. Well, g'night!" She then slammed the door in Fluttershy's face. Spike looked at Twilight dissaprovingly. "Huh. Rude much"? "Sorry, Spike, but I have to convince the Princess that Nightmare Moon is coming, and we're running out of time! I just need to be alone so I can study without a bunch of crazy ponies trying to make friends all the time. Now, where's the light"? As if on cue, the light flicked on and Twilight and Spike found themselves surroned by a bunch of random ponies. Pinkie Pie then hoped infront of Twilight's face. "Surprise! Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Huh huh huh"? "Very suprised! Libraries are supposed to be quiet". said Twilight Pinkie Pie laughed at Twilight's statment. "Well, that's silly! What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet? I mean, duh, bo-ring! Y'see, I saw you when you first got here, remember? You were all "hello" and I was all [deep gasp], remember? Y'see I've never saw you before and if I've never saw you before that means you're new, 'cause I know everypony, and I mean everypony in Ponyville"! As Pinkie Pie said this, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Fluttershy all appeared next to her. Twilight groaned again and walked over to grab what she assumed was punch as Pinkie Pie contiued talking "And if you're new, that meant you haven't met anyone yet, and if you haven't met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don't have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me so sad, then I had an idea, and that's why I went [deep gasp]! I must throw a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends! " Twilight then realised she had drank hot sauce and not punch, Applejack looked at her in concern. "Are you all right, sugarcube"? Twilight ran upstairs with tears in her eyes "Aww, she's so happy she's crying"! Spike looked at the lable of what Twilight drank. "Hot sauce". Pinkie Pie became confused "Ooh... What? It's good"! Reiner however felt worried for Twilight's well being, and decieded to check on her. In her room Twilight had her face burried in her pillow when she heared a knock an the door. "Come in" she said Reiner stepped in to the room. "Hey, are you okay"? No, I'm not. All the ponies in this town are crazy! Twilight gasped at what she just said. "Im so sorry I didn't mean" "It's ok." Reiner replied Twilight sighed. "Do you know what time it is"? "It's the eve of the Summer Sun Celebration. Everypony has to stay up, or they'll miss the Princess raise the sun. I see you wanna be alone, so I'll head back downstairs'. Reiner left and Twilight groaned again. "Ugh, here I thought I'd have time to learn about the Elements of Harmony but, silly me, all this ridiculous friend-making has kept me from it"! Twilight thought back to what she read in the book. Legend has it that on the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about everlasting night." She looked up at the moon. "I hope the Princess was right... I hope it really is just an old pony tale"... The door to her bedroom then opend again, this time it was Spike who came in. "C'mon, Twilight, it's time to watch the sunrise"! Outside Pinkie Pie was standing next to Twilight chattering away. "Isn't this exciting? Are you excited, 'cause I'm excited, I've never been so excited— well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went [deep gasp] but I mean really, who can top that?" The Mayor of ponyvile then came up on the balcony where she was to introduce Princess Celestia. "Fillies and gentlecolts, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration"! The crowd began cheering as the Mayor continued. "In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria"... Fluttershy looked at her birds. "Ready"? The Mayor spoke again. "...Princess Celestia"! However the princess wasn't there. "Huh"? exclaimed Rarity in confusion The crowd began to chatter in confusion "This can't be good" stated Twilight The Mayor tried to keep every pony calm. "Remain calm, everypony, there must be a reasonable explanation"! Pinkie Pie however was oblivious to what was happening. "Ooh, ooh, I love guessing games! Is she hiding?" "She's gone" Rarity exclaimed. The crowed gasped in shock, but Pinkie Pie Still Didn't understand what was going. "Ooh, she's good" Pinkie then gasped in shock when a dark colored alicorn suddendly appeared on the balcony, and was clear that she was not Princess Celestia. Twilght shrunk down in fear. "Oh no... Nightmare Moon"! Spike fanited. "So that's her" Reiner thought. Nighmare Moon chuckled in delight as she looked down at the cowering ponies. "Oh, my beloved subjects. It's been so long since I've seen your precious little sun-loving faces." Rainbow Dash became enraged. "What did you do with our Princess"?! She tried to rush at her only for Applejack to stop her. "Whoa there, Nelly"... Nightmare Moon chuckled at Rainbow Dash. "Why, am I not royal enough for you? Don't you know who I am"? "Ooh, ooh, more guessing games! Um, Hokey Smokes! How about... Queen Meanie! No! Black Snooty, Black Snooty"— Bertholdt covered Pinkie Pie's mouth with his hoof to get her to shut up. Nightmare became annoyed and began asking the crowd questions "Does my crown no longer count now that I have been imprisoned for a thousand years? Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs"? Twilight Spoke up. "I did". "So did I"! stated Reiner. "And me"! Bertholdt repiled. You three? well then tell these others who I am. Twilight spoke again. "You're the Mare in the Moon – Nightmare Moon! The crowed gasped in shock. "Well well well, three ponies who remembers me. Then you also know why I'm here". Twilight began to say why Nightmare Moon was there. "You're here to... to"... Twilight however was unable to find the words she wanted to say. Fortunately Reiner was abel to finish what Twilight was trying to say. "You're here to plunge all of Equestria into etenral Night"! He exclaimed. Nightmare Moon smiled in delight at the holder of the Armored Titan. "Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever! Preview Twilight's fears had come true, and now she and the others must venture into the Everfree Forest in order to find the Elements of Harmony and stop Nightmare Moon. Next Episode. The Mare in The Moon Part 2. Author's Note Characters In Order of Appearance Princess Celestia (Storybook) Princess Luna/Nightmare Moon Twilight Sparkle Twinkleshine Minnuete Lemon Hearts Lyra Heartstrings Spike Sweetie Drops Golden Harvest Cherry Berry Berry Punch Shoeshine Big Macintosh Pinkie Pie Applejack Apple Fritter Apple Bumpkin Red Gala Red Delicious Golden Delicious Caramel Apple Apple Strudel Apple Tart Baked Apples Apple Brioche Apple Cinnamon Crisp Apple Bloom Granny Smith Rainbow Dash Spitfire (Poster) Sorian (Poster) Rarity Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Fluttershy Mayor Mare Sweetie Belle Scootaloo
Episode 7: The Mare in The Moon Part 2: Friendship is Magic arc Part 7(Previously on My Little Pony Friendship is Magic with Reiner and Bertholdt) "Elements of Harmony, see 'Mare in the Moon'"? "But that's just an old ponies' tale." "It's imperative that the princess is told right away". [burps] "I knew she would wanna take immediate action". "My dear Twilight, there is more to a young pony's life than studying. Make some friends!" [prolonged gasp] "You'll find a way to stop her, I know it. Twilight Sparkle was it?" "All the ponies in this town are crazy!" "I hope the Princess was right." "She's gone!" "Oh no. Nightmare Moon!" [evil laugh] (XLTT Plays) Nightmare Moon contiued to laugh like a mad horse as the Mayor stared at the dark Alicorn, her eyes filling with rage. "Seize her! Only she knows where the Princess is!" She ordered the royal guards The guards flew at Nightmare Moon, however she used her magic to stop them dead in their tracks. "Stand back, you foals"! She laughed again, as ponies kept on screaming. Rainbow Dash managed to kick herself out of Applejack's grip, Causing the Earth Pony to grunt. The pegaus flew at Nightmare, but the Alicorn disappered in a cloud of smoke. "Come back here!" Rainbow Dash flew into the sky and tried to catch her breath just as the realization of what Nightmare Moon had said began to sink in. "Shit. Nightime? Forever?" Dash looked down and noticed Twilight galloping back to her home, "Where's she going" Dash thought to herself Twilight burst back into to the libary and the first thing she did was put Spike to bed, despite his protest. "Uh... We gotta stop Nightmare!..." Twilight smiled as Spike gave into his tiredness and drifited into dreamland. "You've been up all night, Spike. You are a baby dragon after all." After putting Spike to sleep Twilight rushed back downstairs to the Libary and began to sort through all of the books on the shelves. "Elements, elements, elements... Ugh! How can I stop Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony?" The door bursted open and Reiner, and Bertholdt steped into the libary. "Twilight what are you doing?" Reiner asked Twilight looked at the Stailion "I'm trying to find a book about the Elements of Harmony." After Twilight said that Rainbow Dash flew into the libary, past Bertholdt and Reiner, and into Twilight's face where she began pestering Twilight for ansewers "And just what are the Elements of Harmony? And how did you know about Nightmare Moon, huh? Are you a spy? " Reiner stepped in front of Twilight as Applejack grabbed Rainbow Dash by the tail and pulled her back. Rainbow Dash tried to wriggle out of Applejack's grasp. "Lemme Go! She needs to answer for what's going on!" Twilight clung to Reiner's back, and the former human turned unicorn felt the young girl trembling as Rainbow Dash kept accusing her of being responisble for Nightmare Moon's return. "Dash calm down!" Reiner Yelled causing Twilight to flich. Applejack finally let go of Rainbow Dash after she had stopped struggling. "Reiner's right Dash, Ya'll need to simmer down she ain't no spy. But she sure knows what's going on. Don't you, Twilight?" Twilight sighed and stepped out from behind Reiner. "I read all about the prediction of Nightmare Moon. Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her, but I don't know what they are, where to find them; I don't even know what they do!" The ponies then heard Pinkie Pie talking in the background "The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide". Twilight shoved Pinkie out of the way and grabbed the book "How did you find it"? she asked the earth pony. "It was under E". Pinkie said in a sing song voice. "Oh". Twilight flipped through the book and got to the page the explained what the Elements of Harmony we're where she began to read "There are eight elements of Harmony but only seven are known. Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty, Loyalty, Bravery, and Motavation". The eighth one is a complte mystery". "So where are they"? asked Bertholdt. Twilight contiued to read. "It is said, the last known location of the seven elements was in the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters. It is located in what is now. The Everfree Forest". Everypony gasped after Twilight said that. A few mintues Later. The 8 ponies arrived at the foot of the forest, Fluttershy was trembeling in fear and clung to Bertholdt who also had a drip of sweat on his forehead. Great, of all the places here I didn't want to come back to he thought to himself. Pinkie Pie however was very exicited and began to walk forward. "Whee! Let's go"! The earth pony began to bounce forward only for Twilight to use her magic to hold Pinkie back "Not so fast. Look, I appreciate the offer, but I'd really rather do this on my own". Applejack walked up to Twilight with a stern look on her face, she had no intentions of letting the young unicorn go off into the Everfree Forest by herself. "No can do, sugarcube. We sure ain't lettin' any friend of ours go into that creepy place alone. We're stickin' to you like caramel on a candy apple". "Applejack's right Twilight, we're all in this together", Reiner said Everyone nodded in agreement. "Especially if there's candy apples in there". Pinkie exclaimed exicedtly This caused everyone to stair at her. "What? They're good". Pinkie defened her statment. Twilight sighed in defeat, and the eight ponies began to venture into the forest. After about 15 minutes of silence Twilight decieded to speak up. "So, none of you have been in here before"? Rarity repiled to Twilight's question with a hint of disgust in her voice "Ugh, heavens no! Just look at it - it's dreadful". "And it ain't natural. Folks say it don't work the same as Equestria". Applejack replied "What's that supposed to mean"? Twilight asked "Nopony knows" said Rainbow Dash as she crept towards the others. You know why? She contiued "Rainbow! Quit it"! Applejack scolded, The Rainbow haired pegasus however didn't listen to the orange Earth Pony and contiued to creep towards the others "cause everypony who's ever come in has never come" out! All of a sudden there was a loud crash, and Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Reiner, Applejack, and Rarity began to slide down the cliff side. "Fluttershy! Bertholdt! QUICK"! she shouted at the other two pegasi. "Oh my goodness oh my goodness"! Fluttershy stammered Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy flew down and manged to grab Rarity, while Bertholdt got Pinkie Pie, However niether of them we're abel to get to Applejack, Reiner, or Twilight. Applejack manged to catch herself on a branch, But Reiner and Twilight tumble over the edge wtih Reiner holding to the ledge, and Twilight holding on to Reiner legs. "Hold on! I'm a-comin"! Applejack grabbed on to Reiner's hooves, "Applejack! What do we do"? Twilight asked Applejack hesited to ansewer before looking up. "Let go", she told them What?! exclaimed Reiner "Are you crazy"?! Twilight responeded "No I ani't" Applejack said defenseilvy. "I promise You'll be safe". Twilight thought Applejack was insane "That's not true"! However Reiner decieded to they should trust Applejack, he thought back to Armin's speech to the Garrison when Eren's Titan was revealed As a soldier, I have long sworn to give my heart for the restoration of humankind! Nothing would make me happier than to die for that cause! If we combine his Titan ability with our own remaining manpower, we can retake this city! For humanity's glory, in what little time I have left to live, I will continue to advocate his strategic value! "I think she's on to something Twilight". "WHAT! Reiner you can't seriously believe that if we" Applejack intterupted Twilight mid senteance. "Reiner's right Twi, What I'm sayin' to you is the honest truth. Let go, and you'll be safe". Reiner looked up at Applejack and nodded, He then reached down and pulled Twilight up close to him. "Hold on tightly to me, and don't be afraid". Twilight looked into Reiner's eyes, and nodded before wrapping her hooves around his waist Reiner let go of the ledge and let himself and Twilight fall off the cliff. Twilight held tightly on to Reiner and screamed waiting for the impact, However it didn't happen. Twilight, open your eyes the young unincorn heard Reiner say. Twilight oblidged and looked up to see that Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt had caught them, though Fluttershy almost dropped them again, but she manged to tighten her grip. "Sorry girls. I'm not used to holding anything more than a bunny or two". Twilight smiled, as she saw Applejack jumping on the ledges down the cliff. However the black mass that Nightmare Moon had turned into had been following the Ponies since the beggining, Enraged that her plan to stop them failed she went over to the nearest thing she could find, "I need to stop them from getting the elements of harmony, but how". It was then, she spotted something. Rushing over, she pricked an unknown creature causing it to roar in rage. The group kept going listiening as Rainbow Dash talk about what had just happened "And once Pinkie and Rarity were saved, whoosh... Me, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt loop-de-loop around and WHAM! Caught you right in the nick of time". Reiner rolled his eyes at Rainbow's story "Yes, Rainbow, Both Twilight, and I we're there, and we are very grateful to you", Reiner was intteruped when, something appeared infront of them. "A manticore"! Twilight screamed. Sure enough, a huge manticore was standing right in front of the eight ponies blocking their path. "And it's the same one that attacked, me and Reiner"! Bertholdt exclaimed. Everyone looked at the pegasus stallion. "Then we have to get past him"! Twilight stated. Seven of the eight ponies charged at large creature, but Fluttershy stayed back. "Wait" she said meekly, only to be ignored "TAKE THAT YOU RUFFIAN"! Rarity yelled kicking the big cat! The manticore responed by roaring in Rarity's face "Ah! My hair"! the unicorn cried in despair. The creature roared again, prompting Rarity to run away! "Wait" Applejack leaped on the manticore's back "YEE-HAW! Git along, little dogie". "Wait" But once again Fluttershy was ignored Applejack kept on trying to bring the manticore down but she was eventually knocked down. "Whoa! All yours, partner". She shouted to Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash flew over to attack the monster "I'm on it"! Fluttershy tried once again to call out "Wait". Rainbow flew up to the manticore only to have it roar at her. She screamed and fell to the ground. "RAINBOW"! Twilight screamed, but before the manticore could somepony shouted "HEY STINK BREATH"! The manticore turned to see Reiner, and Bertholdt standing there "Remeber us", asked Reiner The manticore did. It got into a stance. So did Reiner. "Reiner, are you sure you can fight that thing"? asked Bertholdt Reiner looked at his friend. "Of course I can"! With that, Reiner charged at the large cat like creture, but Fluttershy finally having enough leaped infront of him "WAIT"! Reiner skidded to a halt and stared at Fluttershy, who looked at him with reasurreance before walking up to the Manticore who raised it's claw at her, the others closed their eyes, but opened them when they heard Fluttershy speaking softly to the manticore. "Shhh... It's okay". The manticore heard the kindness in Fluttershy's voice, and showed her it's paw to reveal a thron inside of it "Oh, you poor, poor little baby". "Little"? Rainbow Dash asked in confusion. Fluttershy however ignored her and contiued to talk to the manticore. "Now this might hurt for just a second". Fluttershy used her teeth to pull out the thorn, causing the manticore to pick her up and roar in her face "FLUTTERSHY"! Everypony shouted in fear, but their fear was replaced by shock when they saw the manticore happily liking her. "Aw you're just a little ol' baby kitty, aren't you? Yes you are, yes you are". Reiner walked up to Fluttershy "How did you know about the thorn"? he asked Fluttershy smiled at him before replying "I didn't. Sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness. Oh also the manticore says he's sorry for what he did to you". Reiner smiled at that. Currently Publicly Available Information Castle of the two Sisters. The old home of Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna. Celestia left the castle after banishing Nightmare Moon over 1000 years ago. It is the last known location of the Elements of Harmony. As the group of ponies kept on walking they came to a darker area of the forest. There was so much mud in the area, and Rarity couldn't stand it. "No. My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck". she stated only to step in a face fool of it. "Well, I didn't mean that literally". Twilight was looking at the map, and was looking for where to go next, but it was so dark she couldn't see anything "That ancient ruin could be right in front of our faces and we wouldn't even know it". As Twilight was staring at the map she felt Rarity bump into her "I didn't see you there, my apologies". Rainbow Dash flying around very confused. "Right here... guh.." she groaned Bertholdt walked up to Twilight who still had the map. "For all we know we could have already past it. He said in concern". "No Bertholdt! we couldn't have". Twilight said in a slight panic. Reiner came over as well "Twilight it's ok, we just need to get out of this area of the forest". "You're right, thanks Reiner". Applejack was stumbling around confused on where she was. "Oh wait, I think I stepped in somethin". As for Fluttershy, she was so scared she didn't know what was going on, but when she was abel to gather her thoughts she saw the face of a monster inside a tree causing her to scream. Applejack turned around in an attempt to calm her down "It's just mud". However Applejack saw the faces as well "Aah"! Soon they we're all surronded by scary faced trees, Twilight and Fluttershy each grabbed on to Reiner, and Bertholdt, who both looked at the trees in shock and confusion, while Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity backed away in fear. The group was for sure this was the end for them, when they suddendly heard giggling, they looked over to see Pinkie Pie laughing and making faces at the tree. "Huh"? they gasped in confusion Pinkie Pie contiued to make silly faces confusing the ponies even more. "Pinkie, what are you doing"?! Run! Bertholdt Exclaimed. Pinkie Pie however looked at him and chuckled "Oh Bertholdt, don't you see"? A few moments later she began to sing When I was a little filly and the sun was going down... "Tell me she's not". said Twilight Pinkie Contiued The darkness and the shadows, they would always make me frown... "She is". Reiner confirmed They contiued to listen as Pinkie Pie kept on singing I'd hide under my pillow From what I thought I saw But Granny Pie said that wasn't the way To deal with fears at all "Then what is"? asked Rainbow Dash Pinkie started again. She said. Pinkie, you gotta stand up tall Learn to face your fears You'll see that they can't hurt you Just laugh to make them disappear. and with that, Pinkie Pie did just that Ha Ha Ha and the face disappered, which caused the other ponies to gasp in shock. So, giggle at the ghostly Guffaw at the grossly Crack up at the creepy Whoop it up with the weepy Chortle at the kooky Snortle at the spooky And tell that big dumb scary face to take a hike and leave you alone and if he thinks he can scare you then he's got another thing coming and the very idea of such a thing just makes you wanna... hahahaha... heh... Laaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaauuuugh! and that's what they all did, soon they we're all rolling on the floor laughing themselves silly. After about five minutes of laughing, the group manged to pull themselves together. Reiner stood up and got ready to keep moving on "Well as fun as that was, we have to contiued", "Reiner's right, the elements of harmony won't find themselves". said Twilight. And with that, the group of ponies contiued moving on, though they're still laughing a little bit, soon however they had to stop at a river. The water inside was rushing so fast, and there was no way they would be able to get across How are we gonna cross this? Pinkie Pie asked. It was then she herd a distant cry "Huh"? Bertholdt flew up in the air to see if he could spot who or what made the cry. He looked around until he spotted a giant serpant sobbing in the river, and causing the waves in the river. "What a world, what a world". Bertholdt flew over to the serpant to see what was wrong. "Excuse me, sir. Why are you crying"? "Yeah, what's wrong"? Reiner asked joining Bertholdt The serpant looked down at Bertholdt and Reiner and ansewred their question "Well, I don't know. I was just sitting here, minding my own business, when this tacky little cloud of purple smoke just whisked past me and tore half of my beloved mustache clean off, and now I look simply horrid". Rainbow Dash slapped her face with her hoove "Oh, give me a break". Applejack also groaned in frustration "That's what all the fuss is about"? Rarity however felt sorry for the serpant and wanted to help him, She couldn't belive how insenstive Applejack and Rainbow Dash were being. "Why, of course it is. How can you be so insensitive? Oh, just look at him. Such lovely luminescent scales." The serpant smiled, "I know" "And your expertly coiffed mane". "Oh, I know, I know". Your fabulous manicure. "It's so true"! "All ruined without your beautiful mustache". "It's true, I'm hideous"! "I simply cannot let such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected". Rarity walked over to the serpent, and yanked off one of his scales "YOW! What did you do that for"? The others were very confused on what Rarity's intentions were "Rarity, what are you-". Reiner was about to ask when he saw what transpired. Rarity had cut off most of her tail and used it to replace to missing half of the serpants mustache, and the serpant, well he couldn't be more greatful "Oh-hohohoho! My mustache. How wonderful". "You look smashing". Twilight smiled but felt bad for what Rarity had to her tail though. "Oh, Rarity, your beautiful tail..." Rarity simply smiled at Twilight to reaasure her "Oh. It's fine, my dear. Short tails are in this season. Besides, it'll grow back". "So would the mustache". Rainbow Dash whispered to Applejack who nodded. Reiner looked ahead and saw that they could now cross the river "We can cross now"! The serpant then appeared infront of them again, offering to let them cross over his back. "Allow me". The group walked over thanking the serpant for his help. After some time, they finally noticed a ruined castle in the distances Reiner noticed the castle first, and thought back to when he and Bertholdt we're still with the scouts. That kind of looks like Utgard Castle Twilight walked up to the Unicorn stailion in confusion "Reiner? What are you looking at"? It was then Twilight too noticed the castle. and she gasped in delight "There it is, the ruin that holds The Elements of Harmony. We made it"! Twilight began to rush forward as Applejack called out to her. "Twilight, wait for us"! But Twilight didn't stop, which resulted in her nearly falling off another cliff "We're almost there. Whoa"! Luckliy, Reiner snapped out of his thoughts in time to catch her. "What's with you and falling off cliffs today"? "Now what"? asked Pinkie Pie. "Yeah, how the hell are we gonna get across this"? asked Bertholdt "Duh". stated Rainbow Dash. She flew over to a bridge that was over a few feet next to them "All I have to do is tie this rope to the other siade and we'll be good". "Oh yeah". Said Pinkie Rainbow flew to the other side of the bridge, when she heard a voice call her name "Rainbow" "Who's there"? "Rainbow..." "I ain't scared of you! Show yourself"! Three ponies came out of the fog, to Rainbow Dash, they looked like dark verisons of the wonderbolts. The leader spoke to her. "We've been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the best flyer in Equestria". Dash was confused. "Who? The leader responded "Why, you, of course". Rainbow Dash gasped in delight. "Really?! I mean... Oh yeah, me. Hey, uh, you wouldn't mind telling the Wonderbolts that, would ya? 'cause I've been trying to get into that group for like, ever". But the leader cut her off. "No, Rainbow Dash. We want you to join us, The Shadowbolts. We're the greatest aerial team in the Everfree Forest, and soon we will be the greatest in all Equestria, but first, we need a captain. The most magnificent-" "Yep". "Swiftest."- "Yes". "Bravest flyer in all the land." "Yes! It's all true." "We need... you". Rainbow Dash cheered with joy. "WOOHOO! Sign me up. Just let me tie this bridge real quick and then we have a deal". But the leader stopped her. " No! It's them or us" Rainbow Dash looked back in shock, not knowing for sure what to do. On the other side of the bridge Twilight was confused on what was keeping Rainbow Dash. "Rainbow, what's taking so long"? She gasped when she saw the shadowbolts. "Oh no. Rainbow! Don't listen to them". "Well"? The leader asked Rainbow looked at the ground, and then back up at the leader before speaking. "You". The leader smiled, thinking that Dash had chosen them over her friends, but her smiled faded when Dash contiued to speak. "Thank you! For the offer, I mean, but I'm afraid I have to say no". The leader gasp as she and the shadowbolts disappered while the other ponies cheered as Rainbow Dash flew over to Twilight. "See? I'd never leave my friends hangin". Soon they made it across the bridge when Rarity noticed one of them was missing "Hey, where in equestria is Bertholdt"? The ponies looked over to see the pegasus staillion still on the other side. "Bertholdt! Come on"! Twilight called out. "Right! I'm coming". he called. Bertholdt trotted carefully across the bridge and joined the others. "What the hay was that about"? asked Applejack. "Sorry, not really could with heights". Rainbow Dash gasped in shock. "Then how we're you able to both save Pinkie Pie, and help me, and Fluttershy rescue Twilight, and Reiner". "Honestly it was due to the adrenaline rush. So I wasn't really able to process what was happening, the only thing on my mind at that moment was, Help my Friends, and here. I remember what was at stake. We can't let Nightmare Moon plunge Equestria into eternal night". Bertholdt told them. The group smiled as they headed into the castle "Wow, that was really brave of him". Twilight thought to herself. The eight ponies walked into the castle, and saw seven orbs on the floor "Whoa". gasped Twilight. Applejack walked up to Twilight. "Come on, Twilight. Isn't this what you've been waitin' for"? "The Elements of Harmony, we've found them. Careful, careful"! Twilight lit up her horn igniting a spark which reaveled the Elements. Pinkie Pie counted "One, two, three, four, five, six, seven..... There's only seven"! Twilight was confused. "Where's the eighth"? asked Rainbow Dash "You think we did it wrong"? Bertholdt wondered Twilight spoke up, reciting what she read in the book. The book said: when the seven elements a spark will cause the eighthElement to be revealed. "What the Hay is that supossed to mean"? asked Applejack. "I'm not sure, but I have an idea. Stand back. I don't know what will happen". Twilight replied Reiner walked up to Twilight. "I'll help you, who knows maybe it needs two sparks to work". Twilight looked at him. "Thank you Reiner, the rest of you wait outside". "Come on now, y'all. they need to concentrate". The others stepped outside as Twilight and Reiner lit up their horns, when all of a sudden the dark cloud that had been following them appeared causing Twilight to scream, and Reiner to grunt. Soon a bang was heard by the others outside. "Twilight! Reiner"! they screamed before rushing back into the castle but the two of them we're gone "Twilight, Reiner". called Fluttershy. "What"? asked Rarity "Where did they go"? asked Rarity. "I don't know". said Bertholdt "What happend"? asked Pinkie "What's going on"? asked Rainbow Dash. "Twilight, Reiner"! Where are you asked Applejack. "Look"! Rarity called pointing to a tower "Come on"! said Applejack Meanwhile in the tower Twilight opened her eyes. The first thing she saw was Reiner standing over her with a worried looking on his face. She immediately flew into his hooves and hugged him. "OH MY GOD! REINER, ARE YOU OK"? she asked. "Yeah, I'm fine. How bout you"? he asked Twilight nodded, before gasping and clining on to Reiner tighter. Reiner turned around and saw Nightmare Moon standing there. (Attack on Titan Plays) Twilight and Reiner stared at Nightmare Moon and got ready to charge. "You're kidding. You're kidding, right"? Nightmare Moon asked, but soon enoguh all three ponies where charging each other, just as they were about to colide, Twilight and Reiner both teleported to the Elements and attempted to get the Eight one to appear. "Just one spark. Come on, come on. Aah!" "No! NO!" Exclaimed Nightmare Moon, but unfourently for Twilight and Reiner, nothing happend. Twilight gasped, "But! Where's the eighth Element"?! Nightmare Moon laughed "You Little foals! Thinking you could defeat me"? She then destroyed the Elements of Harmony. "Now you will never see your princess, or your sun! The night will last forever"! Twilight collasped to the ground in defeat. her eyes filling with tears. Reiner looked down at Twilight in remorse. He then rememberd what Eren said the day of graduation. (Heartbeat plays) So what! we're going to do nothing with what we learned, Let it all be meaningless Reiner sighed and spoke to Twilight. "Are you just going to give up, just like that". Twilight looked up at him. "Remember what I told you"? "If Nightmare Moon does return, you'll find a way to stop her" Twilight gave Reiner a small smile, which grew wider when she heard their other friends. Twilight stared back at Nightmare Moon. (Vogel im Kafig Plays) "You think you can destroy The Elements of Harmony just like that? Well, you're wrong, because the spirits of The Elements of Harmony are right here". The Mane Eight stood together to confront the dark alicorn "What"?! Exlcaimed Nightmare Moon. Twilight then recounted what they all did. Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of... honesty Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of... kindness! Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling in the face of danger, represents the spirit of... laughter! Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift represents the spirit of... generosity! Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends for her own heart's desire represents the spirit of... loyalty! Bertholdt Hoover, who overcame his fear of heights to see the mission through, represents the spirit of... bravery! And Reiner Braun, who just reminded to never give up, represents the spirit of... motavation! The spirits of these eight ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us". Nightmare Moon groweld in frustration. "You still don't have the eighth Element! The spark didn't work"! Twilight smirked. "But it did! A different kind of spark. I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all... are my friends! You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the... the spark, that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the eighth element: the element of... magic! Soon a large Rainbow appeared from the neckles around each ponies neck and Surroned Nightmare Moon. "NO! NOOOO"! In a blink of an eye, it was over. "Ugh, my head". groaned Rainbow Dash "Everypony okay"? asked Applejack. 'Oh thank goodness"! exclaimed Rarity "Why Rarity, it's so lovely". said Fluttershy Rarity, thinking Fluttershy was talking about her tail agreed. "No. Your necklace. It looks just like your cutie mark". "What? Ooh. So does yours". Fluttershy gasped "Look at mine! Look at mine"! exclaimed Pinkie. Aw Yeah! said Rainbow Dash. "Huh, not bad, what do you think Bertholdt'? asked Reiner "Yeah. this is nice". Bertholdt said. "Gee, Twilight! I thought you were just spoutin' a lot of hooey, but I reckon we really do represent the elements of friendship". said Applejack "Indeed you do". a voice said. The ponies looked over and saw Princess Celestia appear before them "Princess Celestia". Twilight gasped as she went to hug her mentor "Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student. I knew you could do it". "But... you told me it was all an old pony tale". Celestia shook her head. "I told you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more. I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return, and I knew it was you who had the magic inside to defeat her, but you could not unleash it until you let true friendship into your heart. Now if only another will as well. Princess Luna!" The mentioned princess gasped and backed away as Celestia walked towards her. "It has been a thousand years since I have seen you like this. Time to put our differences behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister". "Sister"? Reiner and Bertholdt gasped "Will you accept my friendship"? Celestia asked. "Whoa". said Pinkie Princess Luna looked down, before rushing to embrace Celestia. "I'm so sorry"! I missed you so much, big sister! Celestia smiled with tears in her eyes "I've missed you too". Pinkie Pie began sobbing loudly, before gasping in delight "Hey, you know what this calls for"? In a few seconds they're all back in ponyville greated by their friends and familed. "I'm never going to get used to that". Bertholdt said to Reiner. "Me neither". Reiner responed. Twilight smiled at everything, but her smiled soon turned into a frown, as Celestia walked over to her. "Why so glum, my faithful student? Are you not happy that your quest is complete and you can return to your studies in Canterlot"? Twilight nodded. "That's just it. Just when I learned how wonderful it is to have friends, I have to leave them". Celestia nodded. "Spike, take a note, please". The little dragon pulled out a paper and quil I, Princess Celestia, hereby decree that the unicorn Twilight Sparkle shall take on a new mission for Equestria. She must continue to study the magic of friendship. She must report to me her findings from her new home in Ponyville. Everyone cheered and Twilight smiled at her mentor "Oh thank you, Princess Celestia! I'll study harder than ever before". Pinkie Pie ran over to Twilight. "Isn't this exciting? Are you excited cause I'm excited I've never been so excited, well, except for the time that I went [deep gasp] but I mean really-" "Yes Pinkie, I'm excited" Twilight said. Post Credits A cloaked figure walked in dark room towards a throne that was facing away from the figure. "Master. Nightmare Moon has been turned back to normal. The Elements of Harmony have been discoverd. These eight ponies will pose a great threat to us. What is your plan"? The throne turned around, and the creature sitting on it stood up and stepped into the light. It was a large blue ram, with sharp gleaming teeth, a colar, and glowing red eyes. The ram simply smiled at the cloaked figure before motioning towards a portrit on the wall. A portirit, of a bell. Preview Twilight recives two tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala, but can't decied who to bring. Can Reiner, and Bertholdt help her with out dissapointing their other friends? Next Episode. The Ticket Master. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Twilight Sparkle Spike Pinkie Pie Reiner Braun Rarity Princess Luna/Nightmare Moon Mayor Mare Rainbow Dash Bertholdt Hoover Applejack Fluttershy Armin Arlert (Flashback) Kitz Wooreman (Flashback) Ian Ditrench (Flashback) Rico Brzenzka (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Steven Magnet Eren Yeager (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Thomas Wagner (Flashback) Franz Kefka (Flashback) Hanna Diamant (Flashback) Mina Carolina (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Princess Celestia Lyra Heartstrings Dinky Do Bray Grogar
Episode 8: The Ticket Master: Gala arc Part 1The sun shone brightly over Sweet Apple Acres. Twilight and Spike we're helping Applejack harvest some of the apples from her orchrad. As the walked through the trees, Spike was siffting through the apples, and throwing out the ones he thought looked, disgusting "No. Nope. Nope"... Applejack looked back and Twilight, appreciating her help, even though she had just moved to ponyville no more then two days ago. "Thank you kindly, Twilight, for helping me out. I bet Big McIntosh I could get all these Golden Delicious in the barn by lunchtime. If I win, he's gonna walk down Stirrup Street in one of Granny's girdles". Twilight smiled, she was glad she was able to help out Applejack with something that was very important to her family. "No problem at all, Applejack. I'm glad the goal is lunchtime. All this hard work is making me hungry". Spike spoke up from Twilight's back in exicetment "I know, right"? However Twilight only rolled her eyes at Spike's statment "Puh-lease, Spike. You've been lounging on my back all morning while we worked". Spike looked back at Twilight with a sly smrik on his face. "Exactly. You two are taking so long, I missed snack-time". Twilight chuckled nervoulsy at that sentenece, paritly because she new Spike was right. "Eh, I guess we better get some food". Spike kept throwing more apples out of the bag. "Nope. Worm". After throwing more Apples out, Spike finally manged to find one he thought was perfect "A ha"! Twilight looked back and saw the apple, she had a look of pure delight on her face. "Oh Spike, that looks delicious"! Spike however ate the entire apple in one giant bite, causing Twilight to become very annoyed. "Spike"! Spike looked back at her in confusion. "What"? Before Twilight could answer though Spike suddendly burpped up a note. Twilight looked at it, and knew where it was from "It's a letter from Princess Celestia". Spike picked up the letter, and began to read. "Hear ye, hear ye. Her Grand Royal Highness, Princess Celestia of Equestria, is pleased to announce the Grand Galloping Gala to be held in the magnificent capital city of Canterlot, on the 21st day of, eh, yadda yadda yadda, cordially extends an invitation to Twilight Sparkle plus one guest". Twilight and Applejack looked at each other with exicientment "The Grand Galloping Gala". Both Twilight and Applejack squeeled in exicietment. "The Grand Galloping Gala". Spike looked on in disgust before burping again. "Look, two tickets" Twilight smiled at her number one assaisntant. "Wow, great! I've never been to the gala. Have you, Spike"? "No, and I plan to keep it that way. I don't want any of that girly frilly frou-frou nonsense". Spike answered Twilight just chuckled at his reasoning for not wanting to go. "Aw, come on Spike. A dance would be nice". Applejack spoke up in exicetment. "Nice? It's a heap good more than just nice. I'd love to go. Land sakes... If I had an apple stand set up, ponies would be chowin' our tasty vittles 'til the cows came home. Do you have any idea how much business I could drum up for Sweet Apple Acres? Why, with all that money, we could do a heap of fixin' up 'round here. We could replace that saggy old roof, and Big McIntosh could replace that saggy old plow, and Granny Smith could replace that saggy old hip. Why, I'd give my left hind leg to go to that gala". Twilight thoguht about the things Applejack was saying, and decieded to ask her if she wanted the extra ticket. "Oh, well in that case, would you like to"— Twilight was intterupted by a gasp and a crash "Whoa"! Rainbow Dash fell from one of the trees in the orchard, with a look of joy on her face. "Ugh. Are we talking about the Grand Galloping Gala"? Applejack looked at Rainbow Dash in clear annoyance, because said pegasus was supposed to have been helping them that moring. "Rainbow Dash. You told me you were too busy to help me harvest apples. What were you busy doing? Spyin"? Rainbow Dash looked at Applejack with a cockey smirk. "No, I was busy napping, and I just happened to hear that you have an extra ticket"? "Yes but". Twilight began to answer only for Dash to intterupt her. "YES! This is so awesome. The Wonderbolts perform at the Grand Galloping Gala every year. I can see it now... Everyone would be watching the sky. Their eyes riveted on the Wonderbolts, but then in would fly Rainbow Dash! Then, I would mesmerize 'em with my Fantastic Filly Flash. And for my grand finale, the Buccaneer Blaze! The ponies would go wild! The Wonderbolts would insist that my signature moves be incorporated into their routine, and then welcome me as their newest member. Don't you see, Twilight? This could be my one chance to show 'em my stuff. You gotta take me"! Rainbow Dash was pulled back by Applejack before Twilight could say anything. "Hold on just one pony pickin' minute here. I asked for that ticket first". Rainbow Dash looked back at Applejack. "So? That doesn't mean you own it". "Oh, yeah? Well I challenge you to a hoof-wrestle. Winner gets the ticket". "The two of them began to fight". "Come on Dash! I need to the Ticket so I can get the farm more money"! "Well I need it so I can sign up for the Wonderbolts"! "Yeah Well I need it to". Applejack then stopped all of a sudden. "Wait sign! Oh Shit"! "What's wrong"? asked Spike "I forgot, I need to sign a permisson slip for Apple Bloom so she can go on a field trip with her class tommorow. Excues me for a moment". Applejack pulled out a piece of papper and a pen, and signed her name at the bottom. "Twilight, would be as so kind to give this to Apple Bloom, she's in her room". "Sure thing Applejack". Twilight said. "And maybe it will give me enough time to think about who I should give the ticket to" Twilight and Spike walked up the stairs until the came to Apple Bloom's room. Once their Twilight knocked on the door. "Come in. Apple Bloom" said from inside the room. Twilight and Spike walked into the room, and saw Apple Bloom reading a book on her bed. Twilight, and Spike looked around in Apple Bloom's room, there were quite a lot of posters of wolves all around her room, there we're also Wolf statues on her dressers, and even a stuffed wolf on her bed. Apple Bloom looked up from her book, and smiled at Twlight, and Spike. "Hello, Ms. Twilight, Spike, what can I do for ya". Twilight walked over to Apple Bloom, "Applejack wanted me to give you this". Twilight gave Apple Bloom the slip, the little filly's face lit up. "Oh thank you! I was worried Applejack had forgotten". "Yeah, uh no problem". Twilight said as she and Spike continue to look at Apple Bloom's room. Apple Bloom noticed this, and raised her eyebrow. "What's wrong"? She asked. "Oh nothing Apple Bloom, it's just". Twilight began, but couldn't find herself being able to finish so Spike did. "Looks like you really like wolves". Spike stated. Apple Bloom smiled. "Yeah, they're my favorite animal". She told them. "How come"? Asked Twilight. Apple Bloom thought for a moment. "Hmm, I'm not sure. I guess I just find them fascinating creatures". She replied. Twilight, and Spike smiled satisfied with that answer, though there still was one question Spike wanted to ask. "What's with that stuffed wolf on your pet"? He asked. "Please don't touch him, wolfiee is very important to me". Apple Bloom said. Hearing the seriousness in her voice Spike didn't push for anymore information on it, and decieded to let it go. "What book were you reading, is it also about wolves"? Twilight asked. "There are wolves in it. It's a story about a girl who has two guys fall in love with her. One guy is a vampire, and the other is a werewolf, and there are two sides trying to help one of the guys win. Personally I'm on the wolves side". Apple Bloom stated. "Ugh, sounds very cliche and sappy to me". Spike replied. "Maybe to you, but I for one think's it's very romantic". Apple Bloom stated as she got up, and walked towards the windows, and saw Applejack and Rainbow Dash hoof wrestling. "What's going on out there". She asked Twilight looked out the window and sighed "Oh no" Twilight then explained to Apple Bloom what transpired outside. "That is a tough decsion to make". "I know, both of them have valid reasons to want to go, and I can't bring myself to say no to either of them". Apple Bloom looked down, "Well you should tell them that". Twilight looked confused. "What do you mean"? "Ah mean their your tickets, so it's up to you to decied". Twilight smiled, for a little filly, Apple Bloom sure was smart. "You're right, thanks Apple Bloom". "No problem Ms. Twilight". Twilight and Spike left Apple Bloom's room, and walked towards Applejack, and Rainbow Dash who we're still arguing "I need the ticket to raise money for the farm"! "Well I need it so I can achive my life long goal"! Twilight walked up to the two and intterupted them. "Girls, these are my tickets, I'll decide who gets it, thank you very much. Whoever has the best reason to go should get the ticket, don't you think"? Both Applejack and Rainbow Dash then each began giving their reasons as to why they should go. "Drummin' up business for the farm"? "A chance to audition for the Wonderbolts"? "Money t' fix Granny's hip" "Living the dream". Twilight looked at both of her friends, now even more conflicted on which one of them to bring. "Oh my, those were all pretty good reasons, aren't they"? Twilight then heard her stomach rumbling, she sighed in relief as she now had a reason to leave. "Listen to that, I am starving. I don't know about you, but I can't make important decisions on an empty stomach, so I'll, uh, think about it over lunch and get back to you two, okay"? Applejack and Rainbow Dash sighed "Okay". Arriving back in ponyville Twilight stopped to think about her situation, Spike who was curious about Twilight's decsion decieded to ask who she was considering taking. "So, who you gonna give the ticket to, Twilight"? "I don't know Spike, but I really can't think straight when I'm hungry, so where should we eat"? Before Spike could decied however Twilight bumped stright into Pinkie Pie, knocking all three of them down, and causing the tickets to land on Pinkie's face, causing her to compltely flip out. "Gah! Bats! Bats on my face! Help"! However, Pinkie stopped when she realized what they really were "Wait, these aren't... tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala?! It's the most amazing incredible tremendous super-fun wonderful terrifically humongous party in all of Equestria! I've always always always wanted to go"! In her exicetment, Pinkie Pie began to sing an upbeat happy tune "Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me Hip hip Hooray! It's the best place for me For Pinkie"... She stopped for a brief momment to talk about everything she expected to be there "With decorations like streamers and fairy-lights and pinwheels and piñatas and pin-cushions. With goodies like sugar cubes and sugar canes and sundaes and sun-beams and sarsaparilla. And I get to play my favorite-est of favorite fantabulous games like Pin the Tail on the Pony"! She then contiued her song "Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me Oh the Grand Galloping Gala is the best place for me 'Cause it's the most galarrific superly-terrific gala ever In the whole galaxy Wheee!!" After she was finished, Pinkie Pie rushed to Twilight and gave her a gigantic hug "Oh no" Twilight thought to herself Sure enough, Twilight's fears we're realized when Pinkie began to speak "Oh thank you, Twilight, it's the most wonderful-est gift ever". "Uh actually". Twilight began only to be intterupted by a shocked gasp. Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie looked over to see Rarity eyeing the tickets "Are these what I think they are"? "Uh"...... Twilight began only to have Pinkie Pie intterupt her. "Yes, yes, yes! Twilight's taking me to the Grand Galloping Gala in Canterlot". "The gala? I design ensembles for the gala every year, but I've never had the opportunity to attend. Oh, the society, the culture, the glamour! It's where I truly belong, and where I'm destined to meet him". Pinkie Pie smiled, "Him"! Then she became confused. "Who"? "Him"! Rarity repated. Seeing that her friends we're still very confused, Rarity began to Explain. "I would stroll through the gala, and everyone would wonder, "Who is that mysterious mare?" They would never guess that I was just a simple pony from little old Ponyville. Why, I would cause such a sensation that I would be invited for an audience with Princess Celestia herself, and the princess would be so taken with the style and elegance that she would introduce me to him, her nephew: the most handsome, eligible unicorn stallion in Canterlot. Our eyes would meet, our hearts would melt. Our courtship would be magnificent. He would ask for my hoof in marriage, and of course I would say, "Yes!" We would have a royal wedding, befitting a princess, which is what I would become upon marrying him, the stallion of my dreams". Rarity then turned to Twilight "Twilight, I simply cannot believe you would invite Pinkie Pie so she can... party, and prevent me from meeting my true love. How could you? Hmph". As the three ponies kept talking, Angel snuck up behind Spike and snatched the tickets "Hey"! Angel went to Fluttershy and presented her the tickets, "Angel, these are perfect". Meanwhile Twilight was finally able to get more then one word in "Uh, listen guys, I haven't decided who to give the extra ticket to". "YOU HAVEN'T"!? Both mares gasped Fluttershy then made her pressences known. "Um, excuse me, Twilight. I would just like to ask, I mean, if it would be all right, if you haven't given it to someone else"... Rarity looked at the shy pegausus in complete shock. "You? You want to go to the gala"? Fluttershy shook her head and began to explain "Oh, no. I mean, yes, or, actually, kind of. You see... It's not so much the Grand Galloping Gala as it is the wondrous private gated garden that surrounds the dance. The flowers are said to be the most beautiful and fragrant in all of Equestria. For the night of the gala, and that night alone, would they all be in bloom... and that's just the flora! Don't get me started on the fauna. There's loons and toucans and bitterns, oh my! Hummingbirds that can really hum, and buzzards that can really buzz. White-blue jays, and red jays, and green jays, pink jays and pink flamingos"! Twilight smiled at all the things Fluttershy had just described "Gee, Fluttershy, it sounds beautiful"... Suddendly they're we're all inttreupted by Rainbow Dash. "Wait a minuite" Twilight looked up in annoyance at the cyan pegausus "Rainbow Dash! Were you following me"? Rainbow, knowing she was caught quickly tried to come up with an excuese. "No. I mean, yes. I mean, maybe. Look, it doesn't matter. I couldn't risk a goody-four-shoes like you giving that ticket away to just anybody". Dash was then itterupted by Applejack, "Wait just another minute". Twilight now became even more annoyed "Applejack, were you following me too"? "No. I was followin this one to make sure she didn't try any funny business. Still trying to take mah ticket". Rainbow Dash looked at Applejack in aghast "Your Ticket"?! "But Twilight's taking me"! Pinkie Pie insisted. Soon the five mares we're arguing, causing Twilight to shirnk down in fear. She did not like having this pressure on her, and the argument was making it worse. Twilight thought it couldn't get any worse when all of a sudden, a stallion's voice spoke up. "HEY"! Twilight, and the rest of them looked up to see Reiner and Bertholdt walking towards them. "What the hell is going on here"? Reiner asked. Twilight was about to answer, but was intterupted again when the other five girls all started talking at once. All this did was cause Reiner, and Bertholdt to become even more confused. "Girls! one at a time please"! The authority in Reiner's voice was enough to shut them up. "That's better, now Twilight, will you please explain to Bertholdt, and I what happened". Twilight looked at the two Stallions, and began to explain everything that just transpired. After she was done, Reiner was able to understand the situation. "So Celestia sent you two Tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala"? Twilight nodded. "And You all want the extra Ticket right"? The other five girls nodded. Bertholdt spoke up. "These are Twilight's tickets, so She should decied who gets the ticket". Reiner smiled at his friend. "That's right, now all of you go back home, and give Twilight some space so she can make her decision eaiser". Twilight smiled at the two stailions. "Bertholdt, and Reiner are right girls. This is my decision, and I'm gonna make it on my own, and I certainly can't think straight with all this noise"... Twilight's stomach then growled. "Not to mention hunger. Now go on, shoo". Reiner, and Bertholdt smiled, while the girls left grumbling to themselves. "And don't worry, I'll figure this out... somehow". Currently Publicly Available Information. The Grand Galoping Gala. A Party held in Equestria's captial city of Canterlot. You must be invited by Princess Celestia herself in order to attend. Outside the local cafe, Twilight and Spike were sitting at a table outside, Spike was looking over the menu, but Twilight was lost in thought. She looked up at Spike, and Sighed "Spike, what am I gonna do? I have eight amazing friends,but only two tickets". Spike looked at her confused. "Eight"? "You Spike". Spike smiled at Twilight. "Twilight I told you, I don't want to be part of that girly gala stuff, so I won't get mad if you give the ticket to somepony else". Twilight smiled at Spike, and then began to think about who she should give the extra ticket too "Applejack, or Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, or Fluttershy, Rarity, Reiner, and Bertholdt. Who should I take". The waiter of the cafe then came up to their table "Have you made your decision"? Twilight looked up in annoyance "I CAN'T DECIDE"! Spike looked up at his closest friend "Twilight, he just wants to take your order". Twilight blushed in embarssment "Oh. I would love a daffodil and daisy sandwich". The waiter nodded and wrote down Twilight's order "Do you have any rubies"? The waiter looked at Spike "No? Okay. I'll have the hay fries, extra crispy". After the waiter left, Twilight decieded to Speak to Spike "What do you think, Spike"? Spike answered Twilight without looking at her "I think we have to try another restaurant. I mean, I like grass just fine, but would it hurt anybody to offer some gemstones"? Twilight became frustrated with Spike and spoke up again "I mean about the Gala and the ticket and who I should take". Spike now looking up from the menu glanced at Twilight "Oh. You're still on that"? Twilight glared at the dragon "Spike, listen. How do I choose? And when I do choose, will the other four be mad at me? I mean, I could give up my ticket and give away two, but that would still leave three disappointed ponies. What if I"— Just then, the waiter came back with their order. "Ah, your food" Twilight smiled at the waiter "Oh thank you. This looks so good. I'm sure everything will be much clearer once I eat". However, before Twilight could even get a crumb into her mouth, the waiter called out to her "Em, madam? Are you going to eat your food in ze rain"? Twilight and Spike, looked at him confused as Twilight looked around "It's not raining"... Twilight then looked to her right, and saw that it was rainning all around ponyville, all except where she and Spike were sitting. Rainbow Dash then poked her head out from the whole in the clouds with a supiscous smile on her face. "Hi there, best friend forever I've ever ever had. Enjoying the sunny weather"? Twilight however, was not amused by Dash's actions. "Rainbow Dash, what are you doing"? Rainbow Dash however pretended to act like she didn't know what Twilight was talking about. "Whaddya mean? I just saw the smartest, most generous pony about to get rained on, so I thought I'd kick a hole in the clouds to keep her dry so she could dine in peace, that's all". Twilight raised an eye brow. "Rainbow, you're not trying to get extra consideration for the extra ticket by doing me extra special favors, are you"? Rainbow Dash pretendted to gasp in shock at the accausation. "Me? No no no, of course not". Twilight however could sense Rainbow Dash's bullshit "Uh-huh" "Rainbow Dash, knowing she was caught, still tried to act innocent". "Seriously, I'd do it for anypony". Twilight, was not ammused by Rainbow Dash's excuess "Rainbow, I am not comfortable accepting unwanted favors, so I'd appreciate it if you close up that rain cloud right now". Rainbow Dash gronaed in frustration, fully aware that her plan had failed. "Ugh! Fine!" With that, Rainbow Dash closed the cloud, and left Twilight smiled. "That's better". Unfourtently, before she could take a bite of her sandwich, Twilight ended getting soaked by the rain water, it was then, Rarity showed up. She saw Twilight, and called out to her. "Twilight, it's raining". "No Shit". Twilight thought to herself. "Come with me before you catch a cold". Knowing she had no other choice, Twilight reluctantly followed Rarity to her boitquie. After arrving at the botiquie, Twilight instantly shook off all the water, which ended up soaking Rarity. Twilight smiled sheepishly. "Heh heh, oops, sorry". Rarity simply smiled however. "Oh no, it's quite all right. After all, we are... the best of friends, are we not? And you know what the best of friends do"? "Uh", Twilight began "MAKEOVERS"! Rarity intterupted And with that, Rarity dragged Twilight behind a curtain, and began her work as Twilight grunted in pain. "Ugh, Rarity, ow, this really isn't fixing it. I mean, thank you but, ooh, that's too tight". Rarity finally stopped allowing for Twilight not only to see herself, but also, breath. There. Oh, you're simply darling. Twilight looked at herself in the mirror, and couldn't help but kind of agree with Rarity. "Uh, yeah, it is kinda pretty, isn't it"? Rarity, eyeing Spike then suddendly dragged him over as well "And you. Oh Spike, I have a dandy little outfit for the dashing gent". "D-ah, ow, oh, hey, wow, watch it, whoa"! Twilight giggled at the outfitt Rarity had put Spike in "Oh Spike". "Now you just need a hat." said Rarity Spike teared the outfitt off in annoyance of what Rarity had done to him "Ugh, I told you, I don't want any part of this girly gala gunk. See you back at the library". With that Spike left the botqiue and went outside to wait for Twilight. Rarity laughed off Spike's comment. "Oh, who needs him anyway. This is all about you, and how fabulous you'll look at the Grand Galloping Gala". Twilight, who had been admiring her dress soon realized what Rarity was trying to do. "Wait, the Grand"— Rarity however intterupted her "And oh, my goodness, what a coincidence. I happen to have an ensemble of my own that matches yours to a T. We would be the belles of the ball, you and I. Everyone would be clamoring for our attention. All eyes would be on us, and then everyone would finally know, the most beautiful, most talented, most sophisticated pony in all of Equestria is Rarity the unicorn. Ah, and Twilight Sparkle, of course". Twilight however took her dress off and looked at Rarity in frustration. "I see what's going on. You're just buttering me up so I give you the extra ticket. Well it's not gonna work. You're going to have to wait for my decision just like everyone else. Now if you'll excuse me, I've been trying all day just to get some lunch". Twilight said as she was leaving Rarity's botique. As if on que, right after Twilight said lunch, Applejack appeared right out of nowhere "Did somepony say Lunch". "You got to be kidding" Twilight thought to herself as Applejack grabbed Twilight and put her infront of and cart filled with Apple related food, Apple Bloom was there as well, looking extreamly guilty. Twilight felt sorry that the little filly had been dragged into this. "I got apple pie, apple fritters, apple tarts, apple dumplings, apple crisps, apple crumblers, and apple Brown Betty. Uh, the dessert, not my auntie. What do you say there, best friend"? Twilight's stomach growled and she almost gave in to her hunger which Applejack noticed "Is that a yes" Twilight however was able to overcome her disire for food "No. No. I don't know who I'm giving the ticket to, and all these favors aren't making it any easier to decide. In fact, I'm less sure now than I was this morning. Ugh"! Twilight ran off as Applejack called out to her. "So that's maybe"? "Ugh, I never thought being showered with favors would be so aggravating". Twilight said to herself when she heard a voice call out to her. "Ms. Twilight"! Twilight turned and saw Apple Bloom walking up to her. Twilight smiled at the little filly. "Apple Bloom, I'm so sorry you had to be dragged into this". "Oh don't worry about it", The Little filly smiled. Twilight couldn't help but feel warm at Apple Bloom's smile. Do you wanna come back to the libray with me? Twilight asked. Sure! Apple Bloom replied happily. As the two of them walked they ran into Spike. "So Applejack tried to butter you up too huh Twilight". Twilight sighed. Yeah, hey Spike Apple Bloom's gonna come back to the libray with us, ok? Sure that's fine with me. The three of them then arrived at the libray, and we're greeted to the sight of Fluttershy and her animal friends cleaning the book slelves while humming a little tune. "Fluttershy! Not you too". Fluttershy looked down, and noticed Twilight standing there. "Oh, well, hello Twilight. I hope you don't mind, but we're all doing a little spring cleaning for you". "It's Summer". Twilight replied. Fluttershy quickly came up with an excuse. "Oh, well, better late than never, right? It was Angel's idea". The small bunny then popped out of Fluttershy's tale. Twilight however knew that was not true, but she hoped, and prayed that it was. "You're not doing this for the ticket, are you"? Fluttershy smiled at the unicorn. "Oh no, I'm doing this because you're my very best friend. Right, Angel"? However, the rabbit just looked at Fluttershy, clearly wanting her to tell Twilight the truth. "Oh, yes, we are just doing this for the ticket". Twilight groaned in frustration. "No, no, no! Well, this was all very nice of you and Angel, but I'm not accepting any extra favors until I've made my final decision", so I'm going to have to ask you to leave. The unicorn said as she opened her front door, only to be met with a large crowd SURPRISE! Twilight was then grabbed by Pinkie Pie who began to toss the unicorn up into the air while singing "Twilight is my bestest friend Whoopie, whoopie" ! "Pinkie". Twilight said trying to get the hyperactive pony's attetion, but Pinkie either didn't hear Twilight or simply ignored her as she contiued her song "She's the cutest, smartest, all around best pony, pony!" "Pinkie"! Twilight said again "I bet if I throw a super-duper fun party, party!" "Pinkie"! "She'll give her extra ticket to the Gala to me!" "PIIINKIIIE!!" That finally got Pinkie Pie's attention, and she dropped Twilight. "Yes Twilight?" the earth pony ask oblivously "At least the other ponies tried to be subtle about the ticket". This statment however got the attention of the other poines, as they all came up to Twilight with burning curiosty "Wait, what ticket? What gala"? Without even thinking, Pinkie Pie told everypony Twilight's "secret" "Oh, you didn't know? Twilight has an extra ticket to the Grand Galloping Gala!" This caused all the ponies to shout out in delight "The Grand Galloping Gala?"! All of them began to walk towards Twilight, giving her all sorts of compliments "Have I ever told you how much I love your mane"? one said "I'll wash your dishes". said another "Would you like any help with your gardening"? "I have a cartload of extra carrots". "I'll paint your cart" Spike and Apple Bloom came out to Twilight, as the ponies kept offering favors "What are we gonna do"? Spike asked Twilight looked at him, and Apple Bloom "We're... gonna... RUNNNNNNNNNN!" Soon the three of them we're running as fast as their hooves, and legs could go, hiding in sevreal different places, Apple Bloom then noticed an area with three different past. "Twilight, Spike we need to spilit up"! "Spilt up"? Twilight and Spike asked in usion. "Yeah"! Apple Bloom replied as she ran down the right path. "Hey Twilight, I think she's on to something" Spike said, before running down the left path. Twilight saw the two of them go in seprate directions, and kept running forward, but soon she found herself corned in an alley. Twilight closed her eyes and prepared for the worst, when she heard a voice. "Hey"! Twilight, and the ponies looked to see Apple Bloom. "Ya'll want that extra ticket? I'm the one that has it". With that Apple Bloom ran off again, the crowd in hot pursuit. "No"! Twilight called out, She was about to go after them when she felt a strong pair of hooves grab her. Twilight tried to scream but the hooves covered her mouth. Stop struggling, Twilight heared a familar voice say. Twilight looked up to see Reiner standing their. A smile formed on her face. "Reiner"! Reiner looked at Twilight. "We need to talk". Reiner led Twilight back to his house, and brought her inside. Once inside, Twilight finally got something to eat, as both Reiner, and Bertholdt shared their dinner with her. "Thanks you two, with all that's been happening with the ticket I wasn't able to get anything to eat". "Yeah, that's what we wanted to talk about", Reiner told Twilight. Twilight soon began to sweat, Were they going to fight over the ticket? she started to get worried, but decied to let Reiner speak. "This whole thing is getting out of hand Twilight, you have only two tickets, but all of the girls wanna go". "What about you two"? asked Twilight. "All admit the gala does sound interesting, but niether Bertholdt or I want the ticket. We just can't bring ourselves to put you throught that pressure". Twilight smiled at the two when the door suddendly opened, and in walked Spike covered in bruises and sticks. "I ran from them for hours, only loosing them after I rolled down a very steep hill, let me tell you it was not fun, at all". Then Apple Bloom walked in, but unlike Spike, she was completly fine, without a scratch on you. Spike looked at her in shock, "How are you"? "I hid in a barrel and waited until I knew for sure the cost was clear". Spike just stood there "Why The Hell Didn't I think of That"!? Apple Bloom then looked up at Reiner and Bertholdt. "It worked"! she said "Wait, what"? asked Twilight Apple Bloom was about to ansewer, but after running through town, and since it was dark out she couldn't stay awake to answer Twilight's question and fell asleep. Twilight smiled as Bertholdt stood up "I'll take her home", and with that Bertholdt left with Apple Bloom on his back and headed to Sweet Apple Arces. Twilight then looked up at Reiner. "What did Apple Bloom mean when she said it worked"? Reiner looked at Twilight and began to tell her about Apple Bloom's plan. "You see, after Apple Bloom left school, she came over to us, and told me and Bertholdt about the ticket. So both of us went to find you, and see what was going on, and sure enough we came to see all of them arguing. After that we went back to Apple Bloom, and she told us that she knew how to solve the problem". "And how was that"? asked Spike. Reiner contiued "Apple Bloom, Bertholdt, and I knew that evenutally the whole town would find out about the ticket, and would start to chase you. So when you got corned in that alley, Apple Bloom took that chance to say she had the ticket and let the crowd chase her, and giving me time to grab you" Spike was utterly shock after hearing that Apple Bloom had come up with that. "She came up with all that"? "Yep Reiner replied, Heh reminds me of somepony I used to know" "Apple Bloom you goddamn genius" Twilight looked at Reiner, "So now what do I do"? "That's easy", Reiner said, "Talk to them." Reiner turned on the upstairs lights reavling Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy. Seeing them all made Twilight scream. "I can't decide, I just can't decide! It's important to all of you and I just can't stand to disappoint any of you, and giving me gifts and doing me favors won't make any difference, because you're all my friends and I wanna make you all happy and I can't, I just can't"! "Twilight calm down" She heard Reiner say. Twilight hugged him tightly as Reiner looked up at the others. "Is there anything you girls would like to say"? He asked. Applejack walked over to them. "Twilight, sugar, I didn't mean to put so much pressure on you, and if it helps, I don't want the ticket anymore. You can give it to somepony else. I won't feel bad, I promise". She was then followed by Fluttershy. "Me too. I feel just awful that I made you feel so awful". Then Pinkie Pie "And me too. It's no fun upsetting your friends". and then Rarity "Twilight, it was unfair of me to try to force you as I did". Rainbow Dash however flew into the air and began to celebrate "Yes! That means the ticket is mine. Ha ha, I got the ticket, I got the ticket"—! but she soon stopped herself when she saw the glare Reiner was giving her. "You know, I haven't perfected my signature moves for the Wonderbolts anyway. I don't need that ticket either." Applejack then spoke again. "We all got so gun-ho about going to the gala that we couldn't see how un-gun-ho we were making you." "We're sorry Twilight" the five girls said in unison. This made Twilight smile and she looked over at Spike. Spike, take down a note. "Dear Princess Celestia, I've learned that one of the joys of friendship is sharing your blessings, but when there's not enough blessings to go around, having more than your friends can make you feel pretty awful. So, though I appreciate the invitation, I will be returning both tickets to the Grand Galloping Gala." "WHAT"! The others said in shock, but Twilight contiued "If my friends can't all go, I don't wanna go either". Applejack spoke up "Twilight, you don't have to do that". "Nope. I've made up my mind. Spike, you can send the letter now". Twilight said Fluttershy looked at Twilight sadly "Now you won't get to go to the gala either". But Twilight reassured them "It's okay, girls. I couldn't possibly enjoy myself without my best friends there with me... So i'd rather not go at all". The six of them hugged eachother as Reiner looked on smiling. Spike then began to start belching, as Applejack looked at him and frowned. "Well wallop my withers, Spike. Isn't that just like a boy? Can't handle the least bit of sentiment. At least Reiner knows how to be mature". Spike then burped out a letter near Applejack's face. "WOAH NELLY"! Twilight and the others we're shocked "A letter from the princess? That was fast". Spike picked it up and began to read just as Bertholdt walked back into the house. "My faithful student Twilight, Why didn't you just say so in the first place"? Spike then pulled something out and gasped in shock "Eight tickets"! he said. "Now we can all go"! said Twilight. The girls cheered while Reiner, and Bertholdt smiled. They each took their tickets. Afterwards Spike sighed "How come I don't get a ticket to the gala"? He then burped again "And one for you Spike" Spike ran out of the house giggling until he saw Applejack looking at him. "I mean, gross, I have to go too"? but he soon started to giggle once more, which caused Applejack to chuckle as well. Preview It's time for the Apple Family to harvest their Apples, but with Big Mac injured, Applejack is left to do the harvesting all on her own, and refuses help from anyone. To make matters worse she's loosing sleep which begins to effect her psyci leading to servearl unfourtnete events for the citzens of Ponyville. Next Episode. Applebuck Season. Author's Note Characters in order of appearance Spike Twilight Sparkle Applejack Big Macintosh (Vision) Granny Smith (Vision) Rainbow Dash Suprise (Vision) Sorian (Vision) Blaze (Vision) Sweetie Drops Minuette Derpy Hooves Apple Bloom Pinkie Pie Rarity Princess Celestia (Vision) Prince Blue Blood (Vision) Angel Bunny Fluttershy Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Golden Harvest Cherry Berry Amethyst Star Twinkleshine Lemon Hearts Drizzle Daisy Shoeshine Armin Arlert (Flashback)
Episode 9: Applebuck Season: Gala arc Part 2It was a bright and early moring at Sweet Apple Acres, as Applejack and her older brother Big Macintosh looked over their apple orchrd. Applejack was exicted because it was time to buck the apples out of the trees. "Boy howdy! I got my work cut out for me. That there is the biggest bumper crop o' apples I ever laid eyes on". Big Mac however looked on in concern. He wasn't exactly sure if Applejack could handle the hole thing on her own. "Eeyup. Too big for you to handle on your own". Despite wanting to help his little sister, Big Mac couldn't since he had been injured eairler that week. Applejack however gave him a reassuring smile. "Come on, big brother! You need to rest up and get yourself better. I haven't met an apple orchard yet that I can't handle". She said acidendltly hitting his injury, causing him to grunt in pain. "Oops, sorry. I'll take a bite out of this job by day's end". Big Mac just rolled his eyes at Applejack. "Biting off more than you can chew is just what I'm afraid of". Applejack took offense to this, she saw it as her big brother not trusting her. "Are you sayin' my mouth is makin' promises my legs can't keep"? "Eeyup", Big Mac responded. This cause Applejack to recoil back in shock. "Why of all the... This is your sister Applejack, remember? The loyalest of friends and the most dependable of ponies"? Her brother however would not budge from his opinion. "But still only one pony, and one pony plus hundreds o' apple trees just doesn't add up to"... Applejack intterupted him before he could finish. "Don't you use your fancy mathematics to muddy the issue! I said I could handle this harvest and I'm gonna prove it to you. I'm gonna get every last apple out of those trees this applebuck season all by myself" Applejack walked over to the first tree, and got ready to start her mission. She had full intentions on proving to Big Mac that she could handle this all on her own. "Well I better get kickin'. These apples aren't gonna shake themselves outta the trees". (ətˈæk 0N tάɪtn plays) Before she could start though, an apple fell out of the tree and clocked her on the head. "Hey"! Applejack then felt the ground shaking, and she realized what was happening "Oh no"! Applejack ran to her backyard and called out for her dog "Winona! Come here girl"! Applejack's dog came up to her in a flash, "Alright girl, we gotta big problem heading for town, now are ya'll ready to help me". Winona barked in response, and the two of them headed stright for the town. In ponyville Rainbow Dash flew up into the sky when she felt the shaking, and noticed a cloud of dust getting closer and closer "STAMPEDE"! She shouted. Soon everypony was panicing, and running for cover, Pinkie Pie however was giggling because since the ground was shaking it also made her voice shake as well. "Hey! Ttttthis mmmakes mmy vvoice sssound ssssilly" "Pinkie Pie, are you crazy!? Run"! Twilight called out Fournetnly Bertholdt grabbed Pinkie by her tail and pulled her to saftey. The mayor was standing in the middle of the town trying to keep things in order "Everypony calm down. There is no need to panic". "But Mayor, whatever shall we do"? asked Rarity Reiner then spoke up. "The Mayor's right, we need to remain calm". It was then Rainbow Dash noticed something. "Look There"! Soon they we're all looking, and saw Applejack and Winona rounding up the stampeding cows. They all started to cheer for the farm pony. "YEEHAW! Move aside, Winona. Put 'em up, girl"! Winona obeyed and moved over to the left side of the herd. All of the ponies we're watching in suspense. "This is the best rodeo show I've ever seen". stated Pinkie Pie. Applejack ran up to the side of the cows and tried to get them to turn. "Come on, little dogies! Turn"! She then called out for Winona "Winona, put 'em up"! Finally Applejack was able to get to the lead cow, and stop her, which then caused all the other cows to stop as well. "Atta girl! Yeehaw"! Applejack then went up to her friend Daisyjo in order to get an exclimation for what just happend. "Whoaaa. Hooie. Now what was that all about"? Daisy Jo looked over at Applejack, and began to explain "Oh my! Begging your pardon, Applejack, but Moo-riella here saw one of those nasty snakes". The other cows began to panic, but Daisy Jo manged to keep them calm before contuing "And it just gave us all the willies, don'tcha know". Applejack smiled at Daisy Jo "I completely understand. Just next time, try and steer clear of Ponyville". Daisy Jo Smiled at her friend. "We certainly will, Applejack. So long, Winona"! As the herd left, Applejack walked over the hill, and the citzens all cheered for her. "That was incredible"! Cried Bertholdt. "YEE HAW!" Shouted Applejack. "Yee haw! Ride 'em, cowpony"! Mayor Mare couldn't help but smile at what just transpired. "Applejack was just... just" She was having trouble finding the right word to say. Fourtently Pinke Pie was there to fill in the Mayor's blank. "Appletastic"! That garnerd a smile from The Mayor. Exactly. We must do something to thank Applejack for single-hoofedly saving the town. "I know"! Said Pinkie Pie. "A Party"! A week Later Twilight looked around the center, and was widley impressed with the turn out. "We all ready"? "Just one last thing". Rarity called out, as she put up the banner. "Now we're ready". Reiner walked up next to Twilight with a small smile on his face. "I must say, I'm extreamly impressed with how things turned out. Now we just have to make sure Applejack's all set. Now where is she". Rainbow Dash flew over to them. "Actually, I haven't seen her all week, what about you Bertholdt"? "Sorry, I haven't either". The pegaus stalion said. "Not since the Stampede", repiled Pinkie Pie. "But she'll be here for sure, Applejack's never late". Rainbow Dash reaasured everyone. Soon everything was set up for the party. Twilight walked up to the podium near the town whole. She had prepared a nice speech for her Applejack, and was super exicted to share it with everyone. "Welcome, everypony! Today we are here to honor a pony we can always count on to help in matters great and small. A pony whose contributions to--" Twilight was however intterupted by Rainbow Dash. "Did you see Applejack's slick moves out there? What an athlete. This week she's gonna help me with my new flying trick, and I know it's gonna be so awesome." Twilight smiled and tried to finish what she was saying "Exactly! And...." But she was interuptted once again. This time by Pinkie Pie "This week, I get to run Sugarcube Corner for the first time". This garnerd confusion from the crowd. What does that have to do with Applejack? asked Reiner. Pinkie Pie smiled, and proceeded to explain. "Oh. Applejack, one of the best bakers ever, is gonna help me. Applejack makes everything great, so free samples for everypony"! The crowd cheered at that statment Twilight proceeded to push Pinkie out of the way so she could finally contiue her speech. "Oh-kay, that's great. Now if I could just make a point without being inter--" But then, Fluttershy spoke up. "Twilight." " rupted". Fluttershy went up to the purple unicorn, and gave her a small smile before speaking. "Twilight, I'm so sorry, but I just wanted to mention that Applejack is also helping me this week with the official bunny census, where we count up all the new baby bunnies that were born this season. She's gonna help gather them using her wonderful herding skills". After saying what she wanted to say Fluttershy walked off the stage, and stood next to Bertholdt. Twilight looked around, she wanted to make sure no one else had anything to say "Anyone else, anyone? No? Good! Well then, as I was trying to say..." But once again, Twilight couldn't finish as she saw the mayor giving her a huge smile. "Ugh! Forget it"!. Twilight left the stage in frustration and stood next to Reiner. "Sorry you couldn't complete your speech Twi". "It's not your fault Reiner, I just wish I could have let everyone know how much I apprecated Applejack. She was after all, the first pony I met when Spike, and I came to Ponyville". "Wait I thought I was the first pony you met"! exclaimed Pinkie Pie. "Twilight smiled at the Pink earth Pony". "Applejack was the first pony we talked to here in Ponyville. You just gasped, ran off, and through that welcome party for us". "Oh yeah". Pinkie Pie remebered. Reiner then spoke, "So Applejack's helping you bake some treats and Sugarcube Corner"? Pinkie smiled. "Yep! Both Applejack, and Apple Bloom are some of the best bakers in town". Twilight looked at Pinkie in awe. "Really? Apple Bloom can bake too"? Pinkie kept smilling and spoke again. "Oh yes! Apple Bloom makes the best brownies! You have not lived until you've tried them" "Ah hem"! The three of them we're silenced by the Mayor who was now getting ready to finally present Applejack with her award. "And so, with no further ado, it is my privilege to give the prize, Pony of Ponyville Award, to our beloved guest of honor, a pony of the utmost trustworthiness, reliability, and integrity. Ponyville's most capable and dependable friend: Applejack"! The crowd cheered and stamped their hooves, but the cheering soon came to a stop when they noticed that the farm pony wasn't there. " Cool! Way to go Applejack, that was awesome"! Spike kept on cheering, until he realized what was happening "I mean-- heh" The mayor too was confused by the turn of events. "Ah hem". "Awkward". Spike whispered. But soon, Applejack arrived "I'm here, I'm here she yawned as she walked up to the stage". "Sorry I'm late--whoa--I was just..." She stoped when she stepped on someone's tail. "whoa... Did I get your tail"? She finally made it up to the podium and looked at the trophy. "Miss Mayor. Thank you kindly for this here... award thingy". She looked at her reflection in the trophy and smiled. "It's so bright and shiny and, heh, heh heh, I sure do look funny heh. Ooo-ooo". Soon both Applejack, and Pinkie Pie we're looking at themselves in the trophy, and making silly faces while Twilight looked at them in confusion. "Okay. Well, thank you Applejack for saving us from that scary stampede, and always being there for everypony". Applejack looked up at Twilight with tired eyes, and yawned before replying. "Yeah. I like helping the ponyfolks and". She yawned again. "And Stuff". Applejack then fell asleep for a few seconds before jolting herself awake. "Oh, uh, yeah. Uh, Thanks". And with that, Applejack took her award, and left the party, while everyone looked at her in confusion. Reiner was the first to speak up. "Was it just me, or did Applejack seem a little--" "Tired"? asked Rainbow Dash. "Dizzy"? Suggested Fluttershy. "Messy"? Stated Rarity, which got her several weird looks. "Well, did you see her mane"? Pinkie Pie however was obilousy to the whole thing. "She seemed fine to me". Twilight grew concerned for the orange Earth Pony. She wanted to know what was wrong, and if there was anything she could do to help. She looked up to the two ponies she felt she could trust the most. "Reiner, Bertholdt. I'm don't think Applejack's ok". Reiner looked down at Twilight. "I think you're right. We'd better go check on her". So the three of them, traveled all the way to Sweet Apple Acres. When they arrived, they saw Applejack, standing under a tree trying to buck it, but they noticed that she was having trouble staying awake, since she wasn't catching the Apples. The three ponies looked at each other. "What on Earth is that Pony doing"? asked Bertholdt. "I'm not sure". Replied Reiner Applejack once again bucked the tree only to miss the Apples, and have them splatter all over the ground. "Whoops". Soon the farmgirl had fallen asleep, as Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt walked up to her. When the got up there Twilight tried to get Applejack's attention "Hey Applejack". But Applejack didn't here her. "APPLEJACK"! Twilight shouted whiched caused Applejack to wake up. "Huh! Oh, Howady Twilight, Bertholdt, Reiner". Reiner looked around in confusion. "What is all this"? "It's Applebuck Season". Applejack Replied. "Applewhat season"? Asked Twilight. Applejack hoisted the baskest onto her back as she began to explain. " Neh, It's what the Apple family calls harvestin' time. We gather all the apples from the trees so we can sell 'em". "But why are you doing it all by yourself"? asked Bertholdt. "Cause Big Mac hurt himself". Twilight meanwhile was looking around the orchard, and noticed that Applejack was the only pony there, which prompt her to ask her next question. "What about all those relatives I've met when I first came to Ponyville? Can't they help"? But Applejack was quick to answer Twilight's question. "They were just here for the Apple family reunion. They actually live all over Equestria and are busy harvestin' their own orchards. So, uh, I'm on my own". Applejack began to walk away in order to contiue her work. "Which means I should really get back to work". Applejack stopped when she saw the three ponies standing infront of her. "Ahem, hint, hint. Get back to work". "Fine", Twilight replied as she, Reiner, and Bertholdt moved out of Applejack's way, however, because she was clearly tired, Applejack assumed they we're still infront of her. "Could you three step aside". "We, just did". Reiner told her, but all three of them kept looking at Applejack in concern. Now it was Bertholdt who spoke up "Applejack. You don't look so good". But Applejack simply smiled grogloy at him. She was so out of it, that she began to see tripple. "Oh don't the nine of you worry none, I'm just fine and dandy". Applejack said before tripping. Reiner, Bertholdt, and Twilight still weren't convinced that she was alright however. "Do you... want some help"? Reiner asked. Applejack shot up almost instantly after hearing that, a look of annoyance plastered on her face. "Help? No way, no how". This shocked the other three. "But there's no way you can do it all on your own". Bertholdt stated. Applejack shot the pegaus stalion a glare after he said that. "Is that a challenge"? "Uhm..... No"? Bertholdt responded Applejack frowned before turning away. "Well, I'm gonna prove to you that I can do it! Now if you'll excuse me , I've got apples to buck". And with that Applejack left the three ponies to contiue her work. As they walked Twilight spoke up. "I can't belive she would refuse help when she clearly needs it". Reiner nodded in aggreement. "You're right Twilight, but that's how Applejack is, once she sets her mind on something, she's going to do it no matter what any us say". Twilight sighed in defeat. "I suppose you're right, I just wish she wasn't so stuborn". "Yeah I agree said Bertholdt, and with that, the three ponies left Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack Smiled as she saw them go. Good, now that they're gone, I can finally" She yawned "Start". She yawned again. "Finishing, my work". She fell asleep. It had been a few hours since Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt left, and Applejack was still sound asleep under the tree when she felt something wet touch her face. Applejack grogoly woke up to her dog licking her. "Winona stop, it's too early for this". She yawned "After all, it's only high noon". Applejack's eyes then suddendly shot open when she realized what time it was. "Wait high noon! Oh no! I'm suppose to be helping Rainbow with something right now". Applejack ran all the way to Ponyville, and found Rainbow Dash standing in the middle of town next to some strange contraption. Rainbow looked at Applejack in annoyance. "There you are". Applejack trotted up to Rainbow Dash, and yawned, before apolgying. "I'm a mite sorry, Rainbow. I was busy applebuckin' and I guess ah, I closed my eyes for a second and, when I woke up, I was late. Now, what's this new trick a' yours"? Dash smiled, and showed Applejack her contraption. "See this contraption"? Applejack looked at it in confusion. "Uh.... Yeah". Rainbow Dash then walked over to a catapult and began to explain her plan. "Well, I'm gonna stand on one end, then you're gonna jump down from that platform, launching me into the air faster than I can take off on my own. Once I'm in the air, I'm gonna do some amazing flips and spins that are sure to impress the Wonderbolts". Applejack gave Rainbow Dash a look of both concern, and confusion. "Isn't that a mite dangerous"? Rainbow Dash scoffted at AJ's concern. Pfft, Heh, not for a pony who can Fly. Applejack sighed in defeat and agreed to do what Dash was asking. "Well, all right-y then". Applejack proceeded to climb to the top of the board she was ment to jump off of. "Oh my". Applejack stated as she looked down. Rainbow Dash set herself up on her end and called up to Applejack. "Ready? One... two... THREE"! Applejack jumped off the board but missed the target, insted landing on the ground with a hard thud. Rainbow Dash stepped off her end and walked over to Applejack. "Umm... maybe I wasn't clear. You're supposed to land on the other end". Applejack got up and looked at Rainbow Dash. "Got it"! Applejack went up to try again, and again, and again. Missing each time, causing Rainbow Dash to grow more and more frustrated. "Applejack, what the hay is going on? I mean, I thought I was working with Ponyville's best athlete"! Applejack tried to reassure Dash that everything would work out. "You are! I'm okay. Really. I-I have an idea. Watch this". Applejack proceeded to use all of her stregenth to push her end down, causing Rainbow Dash's end to be slightly lifted off the ground. "Ta Da"! Applejack for a brief moment was proud of herself. Until she saw Rainbow's unammused face. Applejack chuckled nervously. "Oh... Maybe not. Okay, one more try. I'm sure to get it this time". Applejack stepped off her end, causing Rainbow's end to come down hard, temporarliy dissorienting the pegasus pony. Applejack meanwhile had made back to the top of the board. She waited until she could see her end clearly. "Heh heh... Here I go"! Applejack then leaped off the board just as RD manged to regain herself. Unfourntently now, Rainbow Dash was not ready, and desperartley tried to stop AJ. "Wait"! But it was too late. Applejack finally landed on her end, and sent Rainbow Dash flying through the air screaming. "Applejaaaaack"! Applejack just smiled. "You're Welcome". Currently Publicly Available Information Applebuck Season. The Apple family's harvesting season. It involves bucking ever single apple tree in the orchard. A job that requires more then one pony to do. Reiner stepped outside of his and Bertholdt's house, and looked around. He took in the air, but he was also thinking. Why does Applejack want to buck her orchard all by herself? Can't she see that she needs help? Reiner was taken out of his thoughts when he heard a loud crash to his right. He turned to see Rainbow Dash in a tree near the house looking very dissorianted. "Can I help you? asked Reiner" Rainbow Dash shook her head before speaking "I think somepony else needs your help". "Applejack"? Reiner asked. "Yep". Dash confirmed. Reiner sighed, and began to walk to Sweet Apple Acres At the farm, Applejack bucked another tree, and one of the apples landed on her head causing her to grunt in frustration "Ow"! She kept bucking, just as Reiner walked up to her. "Applejack can we talk"? Aj didn't her him, so he tried again. "Applejack can we talk"? Applejack looked up at Reiner in confusion. "Can bees squawk? I don't think so". "No. Can we talk"? Applejack still couldn't understand him. "Twenty Stalks? Bean or Celery". Reiner again tried to get Applejack to understand him No! I need to talk to you! But she still couldn't make out what Reiner was saying "You need to walk to the zoo? Well, who's stoppin ya" Reiner was growing more impatient. "I need to talk to you"! Finally Applejack understood what Reiner was saying. "Oh! Well why didn't you say so? What is it you wanna talk about". Rainbow Dash dropped by my place today. Reiner told Applejack. "Oh, well that was nice of her". AJ replied. "Yes, but she crashed into a tree near my house, after you sent her flying through the air"! Applejack looked at Reiner in confusion before suddendly remebering. "Oh, yeah. I wasn't feeling quite myself this afternoon". "Yes, because you need help"! Reiner said, but once again Applejack couldn't understand him, "What? Kelp? I don't need kelp. I don't even like seaweed". "HELP! YOU NEED HELP"! Reiner shouted in Applejack's ear. Applejack was appaled at what Reiner had just told her. "Nothin' doin', Reiner. I'm gonna prove to you, t' everypony, that I can do this, by myself! Now if you'll excuse me, I need to help Pinkie Pie"! Reiner sighed as he watched Applejack leave. "For her sake, I hope someone will make her realize she can't do this alone". At Sugarcube Corner, Mr. and Mrs. Cake we're getting ready to leave Pinkie in charge while they we're getting ready to leave for the afternoon. Mrs. Cake then looked at Pinkie wanting to make sure the young earth pony really could handle things on her own. "Now Pinkie Pie, are you sure you're up for baking the muffins and running the store this afternoon"? Pinkie Pie smiled just as Applejack walked in. " Yes siree bob, Mrs. Cake. Plus, I have Ponyville's prized pony to help me out. Why, she's one of the best bakers ever! Right, Applejack"? "No". Applejack responeded tiredly confusing Mr. Cake. "No? You're not one of the best bakers ever"? Applejack shot up and quickly corrected herself. "WHAT? Oh no! I mean, don't you fret. I can bake anything from fritters to pies in the blink of an eye". Mrs. Cake sighed in relief. "All right. Well, see you later, girls"! And with that, she and Mr. Cake left the shop. However, now Applejack wasn't so sure she could do this, but Pinkie was oblivous to the farm pony's state of mind, and told her to get ready. "Stop with the shakin', it's time to get bakin". Once the two of them were in the kitchen Pinkie Pie began to gave Applejack instructions on what they needed in order to bake the muffins. "All right-y! I'll get the sugar and the eggs. Can you get me some chocolate chips"? Applejack couldn't undestand what Pinkie had asked her, so she asked the pink earth pony to repeat herself. "Eh, uh, whu, what was that"? So Pinkie once again told AJ what she wanted "Chocolate Chips". Applejack however only heard chips. "Chips...... Got it". Applejack walked over to the cupbord pulled out a bag of potato chips, and placed them into the bowl. "Tater chips, a little salty and dry, okie-dokie. What next"? Pinkie Pie, who was completely oblivous to what Applejack had done contiued. "Baking Soda". But once again, Applejack only heard Pinkie Pie say Soda. So she went over and got out a big litter of soda. "Soda". Applejack poured the Soda into the bowl. " Perfect. That'll get the tater chips nice and wet. Now what". Pinkie, still not noitcing what Applejack had done smiled and said. "A cup of Flour". But Applejack thought she said Sour. "A cup o' sour? Well, lemons are sure sour". So Applejack got a bunch of lemons and began to squeeze their juices into the mix. "One cup o' sour, comin' up. Anything else, Pinkie"? "One last thing. Wheat germ". Applejack however once again mistook Pinkie's words, and thought she said worms, insted of germs. "Wheat worms? Oh, that must be fancy talk for earthworms". So Applejack went outside, dug up a bunch of earthworms, and put them into the bowl. Pinkie Pie, not even noitcing the very obiovous worms, took the mix, and put it in the oven. "Now that's gonna be delicous"! "If you say so", answered an unsure Applejack. About an hour later, the muffins we're done, and soon there were a bunch ponies in Sugarcube Corner, ready to sample some. "Free muffin sample spectacular"! Pinkie Pie announced! The ponies we're very exicited and went over to grab some muffins as Applejack tiredly encourged them to grab some. "Yeah! Muffin spectacles! Get 'em while they're hot". A soon everyone had a muffin Applejack smiled and looked at Pinkie Pie. "Well Pinkie, I best be getting back, I've got a lot more trees to buck". "Ookie Dookie Lookie Applejack, thanks for your help". As soon as Applejack left Pinkie Pie grabbed a muffin for herself, and gobbled it down. After a few minutes the ponies started to feel funny. Pinkie Pie thought it was nothing at first, but about fiffteen minutes later, she and the other ponies would find themselves in huge trouble. Twilight, and Spike rushed to ponyville's urgent care once they got news of what had transpired at Sugarcube Corner. "We came as soon as we heard"! Nurse Redheart came up to The two of them. "Oh, thank you Twilight, we need all the help we can get". Twilight looked around, and saw a bunch of sick ponies, with nurses trying to care for them. Even Apple Bloom was there, giving soup to a sick stalion. "What happend"? asked Twilight Apple Bloom looked over at Twilight, and Spike, and began to exlplain. "It was a mishap with some of the baked goods". "No' Pinkie Pie responed "Not baked goods. Baked bads". Apple Bloom walked up to Twilight. "When I saw what was happening here, I came over and offered to help the best I could". All of a sudden Apple Bloom, and Twilight heard a little filly crying, and screaming, as her mother was trying to comfort her. "OW! MAMA IT HURTS"! The filly was crying so loud, it broke Twilight's heart. She then noticed Apple Bloom walking towards them, and began to hum a soft song for the filly. The filly stopped crying, and smiled at Apple Bloom, the mother smiled at her as well. "Bless your heart Apple Bloom". Twilight and Spike couldn't help but smile, both of them thinking the same thing, though Spike was the first to say it. "That filly is an angel". Twilight however shook her head. "No Spike. Apple Bloom. Is a Goddess. Anyways I need to go check on Applejack, are you all good here". Apple Bloom nodded. "Yeah. Please go help my sister". "I intend too". With that Twilight Left. Meanwhile, Spike had found one of the nasty muffins, and decieded to try it. To his suprise he found it delicous. "Want one", he asked Apple Bloom, only for the filly to give him a disgusted look. Twilight returned to Sweet Apple Acres, and found Applejack under sleep bucking it, Twilight walked up to her friend. "What? Huh"? Applejack mumbled to herself as Twilight came up to her. "Applejack, we have to talk". Applejack took a little bit to noticed Twilight infront of her. "Wha, huh? Oh, it's you, Twilight". She yawned before begining to walk away. "I know what you're gonna say, but the answer is still no"! Twilight however knew Applejack was wrong. "Not to upset your applecart, but you need help". But Applejack refused to listen to Twilight. "Hardy har, No I don't! she said as she fell over". Twilight tried to offer Applejack assiastants. "Here let me help". But Applejack refused. "Help? No thank you Twilight, I already told Reiner that I don't need help, and I'm gonna tell you the same thing"! She began to buck a tree that was already empty. "I just need a little more time, and I'll prove to you I can get all these Apples". Twilight noitcing that Applejack was bucking an empty tree quickly pointed it out to her friend. "Um I think your beating a dead....... tree". Applejack looked up in suprise before coposing herself. "Uh.... I knew that". Applejack began to walk away with Twilight following "Actually, Applejack, I had something else to talk to you about. I just came back from Ponyville Urgent Care and--" But Applejack interuptted Twilight. "Look Twilight, I don't need you lecturing me right now, I'm very busy with". "Your little sister was there"! Twilight intterupted Applejack looked at Twilight. "Why was Apple Bloom there"? "She was helping the nurses with the sick ponies". Applejack smiled. "Yep, that was defiently Apple Bloom, always thinking of others before herself. Ya'll know she's referred to as the Apple Family Goddes". Twilight gave a small smile of her own, remebering how Apple Bloom calmed down that crying filly "I can belive that". she said to herself. Twilight looked back at Applejack. "And that's another reason why I'm here, because Apple Bloom asked me to come. She practiley begged for me to help you! So why? Why the hell can't you tell that your friends, and your family are worried about you Applejack"! Applejack just frowned. "No Twilight, I don't need help from anypony". With that, Applejack left Twilight, who side in frustration. "Ugh! That pony is as stubborn as a mule"! Twilight then noticed a random mule standing next to her. "No offense". "None taken". Said the mule. A few hours after the incident with the muffins Applejack was now helping Fluttershy with the newborn baby bunnies like she had promised, however this time Applejack wasn't too thrilled with the idea. She wanted to get this done as quick as she could so she could get back to the farm, and finish Apple bucking. Fluttershy meanwhile was extreamley greatful for Applejack's help. "Oh Applejack! Thank you so much for offering your herding skills for the annual rabbit roundup". Applejack just groaned in response. "Ugh! Why are we doing this again"? Fluttershy taking no notice to Applejack's complaint just smiled, and explained the situation. " Well, lots of new baby bunnies have been born, so it's my job to get a count of all the new families". Applejack sighed "Fine! Let's just get it over with." Fluttershy smiled at Applejack. "Of course, but remember, this are bunnies we're dealing with not cows, so they need to be treated gentely, and with care". Applejack was in no mood to listen to Fluttershy however. "I do NOT need you telling me how to round up critters, right Winona"? Winona barked in response. Fluttershy walked up to a group of bunnies and began to softly direct them into the center. "Okay, little bunnies! I need you to all gather here in the middle". Applejack however stomped infront of the bunnies and began demanding for them to move. "That's right! Let's go, bunnies. In the center. Hop to it"! The furry in Applejack's voice scared the bunnies, and they started running making Applejack even more frustrated! "Swell! Just swell"! She and Winona gave chase to the bunnies! "Put em up Winona"! Fluttershy followed after them, and despertely tried to get Applejack and Winona to stop. "Wait! Applejack, Winona please stop! You're scaring them". Applejack refeused to hear Fluttershy out, and contiued to chase the bunnies. "We know what we're doing Fluttershy! Get along little bunnies". Soon Applejack, and Winona had the bunnies cornerd in the center, and were both staring intensely at them. Fluttershy knew what was about to happen next, and could only mumble out two words. "Oh no". Sure enough the bunnies got so scared, and began to run right in the direction of Ponyville. Fluttershy looked on in shock as Applejack and Winona simply left her to deal with the problem herself. Fluttershy tried to call out to Applejack. "Wait! aren't you gonna he"l- But Applejack ignored her and left. Fluttershy sighed and began to follow after the bunnies hoping she could stop them. Back in Ponyville, Rainbow Dash flew up into the air, and noticed the dust cloud coming she knew what was next. "STAMPEDE"! (XLTT Plays) Once again everypony began to run for cover, but unlike last time, Applejack didn't come to stop the stampede, and the bunnies ran through Ponyville as the citzens could only watch on. Fluttershy quickly arrived only to find that she was to late to stop the bunnies, she quickly went into the town and tried to gather them up. Twenty Mintues Eailer. Twilight was on her way back to the urgent care tent to see how things we're going. As she was walking she heard someone call out to her "Twilight"! Twilight turned around to see Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover walking up to her. "Where are you going? Asked Bertholdt" Twilight smiled before replying. "Oh hey you guys, I'm just heading to urgent care, there was a problem with the muffins that Applejack helped Pinkie Pie bake". Reiner sighed "Yeah, I figured something like that would have happened". Twilight looked up at him. "I heard what happened with Rainbow Dash. I guess you also tried to tell Applejack she needed help"? "I did". Reiner responed. The three of them arrived back at the urgent care tent, and we're pleased to see everyone was looking a lot better, Pinkie Pie was back to her bubbly self. Apple Bloom was still there, and once she saw them she quickly ran up to the three of them. "Twilight! Did Applejack accept your help? Oh please say she did". Twilight look down. "I'm sorry Apple Bloom, but Applejack just won't listen to reason, I can't understand why she's so stubborn". Apple Bloom looked down. "She gets that from my father, he was sturbon too. But daddy knew when to ask for help when he needed it! I remember him always telling me to always think of what others would want, and how it would effect them. That's why I try hard to help out whenever I can. It's part of the reason I helped out here". Reiner looked at Apple Bloom, "Hmmm Maybe if all four of us talk to Applejack together, we can convice her that she needs help". Twilight smiled at the unicorn. "That's a great idea Reiner, what do say Apple Bloom, do you wanna help your sister"? Apple Bloom smiled "Yes of Course"! With that, the four ponies left the tent in order to head to Sweet Apple Acres Twilight, Reiner, Apple Bloom, and Bertholdt were walking through Ponyville when they say the three flower ponies Rose, Lilly, and Daisy sprawled out on the ground in obivious distress. They then each began to speak "The horror, the horror". Said Rose. "It was awful" replied Lily. "A disaster, a complte disaster"! Stated Daisy. Twilight, Reiner, Apple Bloom. and Bertholdt stared at each other confused. The three ponies then began to relay the reason why they we're so upset. "Our gardens, destroyed". said Lily. "Every last flower, devoured". responed Rose. "By... by... THEM"! said Daisy. Twilight, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt looked to where Daisy was pointed, and saw the bunnies, along with Fluttershy trying to round them up. "Oh my. Oh... Please stop, little bunnies. Oh no! Please, let's go home. Oh my goodness". Twilight's eyes filled with rage at seeing this. "Alright. Enough, is Enough". The four ponies arrived at Applejack and saw her once again under a tree. "Must...... Keep...... Bucking...... Must finish...... harvest". Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt walked up to Applejack. Twilight being the first to speak to AJ. "All right, Applejack. Your applebucking hasn't just caused you problems, it's over-propelled Pegasus', practically poisoned plenty of ponies, and terrorized bushels of brand new bouncing baby bunnies. I don't care what you say, you need help"! Reiner then spoke. "Twilight's right Applejack, you need help". But Applejack just kicked the tree, until all the apples fell off. She then gave the three of them a smug look "Ha! No I don't. See", Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt looked around to see all the apple trees where empty "I did it. I harvested the entire Sweet Apple Acres without your help. How d'ya like them apples"? However, Big Mac came up to Applejack and pointed out a bunch more trees on the other side of the farm that still had plenty of apples on them "Um... How do you like them Apples". Applejack noticed them and was compltely shocked to the point she fainted. "Applejack? Applejack"? Applejack opened her eyes to see Twilight standing over her. "Oh good, your ok". Said Twilight. Applejack stood up, "Alright Twilight, thank you for your concern, but I need to get to bucking thoes other trees". Twilight was about to speak, but Applejack intterupted her. "Without Your Help"! Twilght Gasped. "But Applejack"! Applejack intterupted Twilight Again. "No buts Twilight! I don't need your hel-" (Heartbeat Plays) "APPLEJACK"! Applejack, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt looked over to see Apple Bloom, who had finally decieded to speak. Applejack looked at her little sister and was about to speak. "AB sugarcube" But Apple Bloom intterupted her sister. "No! Listen! You need help, you keep saying you don't but you do! Applejack you're working yourself to exhaustion! Please Applejack, Let Twilight and your friends help you! Please do it. For Me"! Apple Bloom had tears streaming down her face, as she spoke to her big sister, and Applejack could only stare at Apple Bloom in shock. It was then Reiner decieded to speak up. "Applejack, We completely respect the Apple family ways. You're always there to help anypony in need, so maybe you can put a little of your stubborn pride aside and allow your friends to help you". Applejack looked down and spoke. "Okay Reiner". "We're not Taking no for ansewer" Reiner said, before realizing what Applejack had said. "Wait what"? Applejack contiued. "Yes you guys. Please I could really use your help". Reiner, chuckled. Soon enough, Twilight, Bertholdt, Reiner, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Spike, and Rainbow Dash we're all helping Applejack with the harvest during the time Twilight was realying the letter she sent to Princess Celestia. Dear Princess Celestia, My friend Applejack is the best friend a pony could ever have, and she's always there to help anypony. The only trouble is, when she needs help, she finds it hard to accept it, so while friendship is about giving of ourselves to friends, it's also about accepting what our friends have to offer. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle Applejack came out of the farm with bottles of Apple Juice for them all. "How about y'all take a little break? I got some fine apple juice waitin' for ya"! The other ponies walked up to Applejack to take their juice. Applejack took this time to thank them for their help "I can't thank you enough for this help. I was acting a bit stubborn". "A bit"?! Retorted Bertholdt. Applejack chuckled at him. "Okay. A mite stubborn, and I'm awful sorry. Now, I know the town gave me the Prized Pony award, but the real award is having you seven as my friends". They all laughed afterwards. Dash then spoke up. "All this harvesting is making me hungry". Spike then walked up smelling something delicous. "What's that smell". he asked Apple Bloom then walked out of the house with a tray filled with brownies, "Don't worry" she said. "I've got the perfect treat". "Oooh Apple Bloom I've always loved your brownies", Said Pinkie Pie. "Thank you Pinkie", said Apple Bloom. She then looked at Twilight, Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt, and gave each of them a brownie. "Here you are. Allow me to put a magical spell on them. Abracadabra become delicous". Apple Bloom poured choclote cream on each brownie, and each pony ate one. Twilight gasped in shock. "Apple Bloom these are delicous, I can't belive you made them all by yourself". "Oh thank you Twilight". Applejack then spoke up. "Thank you, Apple Bloom. You we're the one who made me realize that I needed help. If you hadn't yelled at me the way you did, I won't have figured that out". Everyone laughed after that. Preview Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash spend their time pranking their friends, but when an old friend of Rainbow Dash comes to visit, Pinkie Pie knows, trouble is a foot. Next Episode. Griffion the Brush Off. Author's Note Characters in order of apperance Applejack Big Macintosh Rainbow Dash Sweetie Drops Berry Punch Shoeshine Pinkie Pie Twilight Sparkle Bertholdt Hoover Mayor Mare Rarity Reiner Braun Daisy Joe Mooriella Fluttershy Spike Mrs. Cake Mr. Cake Lyra Heartstrings Derpy Hooves Minuette Ellie Redheart Apple Bloom Lilly Valley Rose Daisy
Episode 10: Griffion the Brush off: Gala arc Part 3The sun shone brightly over the nature park in Ponyville. There, Pinkie Pie was talking about how awesome she thought Rainbow Dash was. "Hoof-biting action overload! She was like a stunt superstar, flying higher and higher, and then Rainbow Dash swooped down—swoosh—and right before she hit the ground—shoom, she pulled up—vrrrmmm"! Twilight Sparkle, who was sitting on a bench reading book simply nodded as Pinkie Pie contiued. "And then she looped around and around like whoo whoo whoo whoo whoo whoo whoo"! Twilight again, just nodded in response. She just wanted to read her book in private, when Pinkie Pie came out of know where, and began telling Twilight everything about Rainbow Dash. Fourtently for Twilight Pinkie Pie looked up, and noticed Rainbow Dash flying in the air, and began to follow the cyan pegaus. Twilighy sighed in relief seeing Pinkie leave. Rainbow flew through the air, enjoying the view until she heard an all too familar, and somewhat annoying voice. "RAINBOW DASH"! Dash looked down, and saw Pinkie Pie following her, again. She groaned in frustration. "Ugh, Pinkie Pie. Not Again". Rainbow began to fly faster. Pinkie Pie saw this, and began running faster calling out to the pegaus "Rainbow Dash"! "Not now Pinkie Pie". "But Dash"! "I'm busy"! "But Rainbow Dash"! "I said not Now", But before Dash could complte her sentence, she flew face first into a mountain. Pinkie Pie trotted up to her. "I was going to tell you to look out for that mountain". Pinkie Pie was trotting through ponyville humming a little toon. Rainbow Dash, who was up on a cloud trying to sleep plugged her ears, but then she heard Pinkie Pie say something that made her groan in frustration. Pinkie Pie walked up to three ponies near a cart, and began speaking to them. "Hi, I'm looking for Rainbow Dash. Have you seen her"? The ponies shook their heads so Pinkie Pie went to another group of ponies. "Hi there, have you seen Rainbow Dash"? They also said no. Pinkie Pie then noticed Bertholdt Hoover coming out of a shop, so she decieded to ask him. "Bertholdt, have you seen Rainbow Dash anywhere"? Bertholdt looked up, and Saw Dash on a cloud right above them. "Yeah. She's right up there". Pinkie Pie looked up, and Saw Rainbow Dash, and called out to her. "Rainbow Dash"! Rainbow Dash groaned in frustration, and flew quickly away, Pinkie Pie Hoping after her. Rainbow Dash flew all the way to Sweet Apple Acres, and hid beside the barn. Thinking she was safe Dash sighed in reflief. That was until she turned around, and saw Pinkie standing right there with a huge smilie on her face. "Hi"! Dash quickly shot off in the opposite direction, Pinkie Pie again hoping behind her. Rainbow Dash flew all the way into the leaves of Twilight Sparkle's house. Once again Pinkie Pie had manged to catch up with her. "Hi Agian". Rainbow Dash flew off again, eventually she flew down by the local pound. But once again Pinkie Pie was there waiting. "I need a favor, Rainbow Dash". Rainbow Dash was about to fly away again only to deciede aganist it, knowing it was useless "Waaa— oh, forget it". Pinkie Pie smiled "I totally promise it will be super fun". Rainbow Dash sighed in defeat. "Alright". A few moments later, Pinkie Pie was having Rainbow Dash adjust a cloud infront of the post office. "Over to the right. No no, a little to the left. Oh wait, back to the right. Now a little leftish while staying rightly. Stop Hmm. Maybe a few inches to the south. Now a couple centimeters north. Okay. One more smidgimeter to the—" Rainbow Dash, who had absoutley no clue as to why Pinkie Pie wanted her to move the cloud in the first place was growing more and more impaticent. "Pinkie"! Pinkie Pie jump with a start, before decieding the cloud was perfect. "Uh, I mean, perfect. Now wait for my signal". Rainbow Dash sighed, but decieded to play along. Just to humor Pinkie Pie. After a few mintues of waiting Spike walked out of the post office with a bunch of scrolls in his hands. Once Spike was right underneth the cloud Pinkie Pie singled for Rainbow Dash to kick the cloud. Rainbow Dash did so creating a loud thunder clap which startled Spike so much he ended up getting the hiccups. Pinkie Pie began to crack up with laughter. "Oh Rainbow Dash look, we gave Spike the hiccups". Now Rainbow Dash was starting to chuckle a bit, even Spike. "Ha good one Pinkie Pie. You sure got me". One of Spike's hiccups then caused him to breath fire on his arm, as well as burn one of the scrolls. Pinkie Pie stopped laughing and became concerned. "Spike, are you ok". Spike gaving Pinkie a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. Dragons are fireproof". Spike proceeded to pick up the remaing scrolls only to hiccup again buring all of them in the process. He sighed "I wish it was the same for scrolls". Said scrolls suddendly appeared in Celestia's throne room falling on the princess head. Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash we're now both laughing histarictley. "Have you ever seen anything so funny"? asked Pinkie Pie. Rainbow Dash smirked before replying "I can think of one thing". Rainbow Dash flew back up to the cloud and kicked it creating another loud crack which ended up scaring Pinkie Pie into also getting the hiccups. Rainbow Dash smiled and flew down to Pinkie Pie. "I had no idea you we're a prankster Pinkie Pie". Pinkie Pie smiled and began to speak through her hiccups. "Are you kidding, I love to pull a good prank here and there! After all it's just in good fun, and I love to have fun"! Rainbow smiled and decieded to ask Pinkie Pie a question she thought she'd never hear herself asking the pink earth pony. "You know Pinkie Pie, you're not as annoying as I thought, you maybe wanna hang out"? Pinkie Pie became really exicted, and tried to answer, however her hiccups prevented her from saying a complte sentence, so Rainbow Dash stopped her from trying. "A simple nod would work". A little while later Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash went to a store, and bought flowers. They then put some type of powder on it, after doing that they the flowers infront of Rarity's door and waited for her to come out while hidding behind some bushes. "Is she even home"? Dash asked. "I don't know". Pinkie replied. They waited for a few more minutes until Rarity finally opened the door. Seeing the flowers she went to sniff them only the have her nose covered in the powder causing her to start sneezing uncontroblly. Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash could barley maitain their laughter. They soon contiued on the pull more pranks. Next they we're at Twilight's place. The two of them had replaced her ink with dissappearing ink, and everytime Twilight tried to write something down about her research, the words would dissapper causing her to grow more and more frustrated. After that. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie went to Sweet Apple Acres, and panited every single apple on every single tree. When Applejack walked out of her barn, she saw what happened to all of her apples. "Land sakes"! Apple Bloom heard her sister and came out to see what was wrong. "Applejack! What happened"?! Apple Bloom then noticed the apples, and gasped, they then saw Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash with paint supplies snickering. The two of them then ran off when Apple Bloom grabbed some Apples and began throwing them at the two pranksters, one landed in a barrel of water which washed the paint off of one of the apples. Seeing this, caused Applejack, and Apple Bloom to give a each other a small chuckle. Finally Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash we're at Reiner, and Bertholdt's house. Pinkie walked up to the door and rang the doorbell before running and hiding behind a bush next to Rainbow Dash. A few moments later Reiner Braun opened the door looked around, and walked back inside. Next Rainbow Dash rang the doorbell, and Reiner opened it again this time he called out. "Hello! is anyone out there"? Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash did this three more times, until finally on the fourth ring Reiner caught them. He gave the two girls a dissaproving stare. Later that day, Fluttershy was by the pound looking at the turtles living there when a certain caught her eye. Unknown to Fluttershy this wasn't a real turtle, but a toy one ment to squrit out water. Behind a bush hid Rainbow Dash watching Fluttershy through a large telescope while Pinkie Pie was standing a few feet away with the squriter in her mouth. Pinkie Pie didn't know that Fluttershy was their target so she asked Rainbow Dash who they we're pranking. "Is someone over there? Who are we gonna squrit"? Rainbow Dash snickered. "Fluttershy". However once Pinkie Pie heard who they we're pranking she gasped! "What! nononononono! We cannot prank Fluttershy I mean she's so sensitive. It'll hurt her feelings, even our most harmless prank". Rainbow Dash sighed, knowing all to well that Pinkie Pie was right. "Yeah that's true. We need another victim who's made of tougher skin". Pinkie Pie then started to Giggle. "Oh I can think of somebody. The toughest around". Dash smiled "Really who is it do I know them". Pinkie Pie then looked at her reflection in the pound, prompting Rainbow Dash to do the same. When she did she saw her left eye had an ink ring around it. Realizing what Pinkie Pie had done caused Rainbow Dash to chuckle. "Ha good one Pinkie". Rainbow Dash and Pinkie started to laugh while Fluttershy was stll staring at the fake turtle in confusion. Currently Publicly Available Information Griffin. Creatures from greek mythoghy, griffins have the head of an eagle, and the body of a lion. In Equestria they are known to be greedy and rude even to their fellow griffins The next moring Pinkie Pie was out once again heading towards Rainbow Dash's house in order to pull more Pranks with her. Arrving at Rainbow's place Pinkie called up eager for another day of fun. "Rise and shine Rainbow Dash! It's a brand new day and we got a lot of pranking". Pinkie stopped mid sentence when a strange looking creature peared at her from over the cloud. Pinkie Pie just stood there in confusion until Rainbow Dash finally came out. "Mornin Pinks". Rainbow Dash then turned to the creature and began to intrdouce the two strangers to eachother "Pinkie, this is my griffon friend, Gilda". Pinkie Pie looked at Dash in confusion. "What's a Griffion"? Dash smiled at Gilda and proceeded to answer Pinkie Pie's question. "A creature who is half eagle and half lion". Gildia then flew down to join the conversation. "Don't forget all awesome! Raa. Heh-haa. Yeah, that's right". Rainbow Dash turned back to Pinkie and said. "Gilda's my best friend from my days at Junior Speedster flight camp". She then turned to Gilda again. "You remember the chant right"? Gilda scoffed. "Of course! They made us reciet it every damn day. I'll never get it out of head". Dash looked at Gilda with pleading eyes. "Sooooo"? Gilda, knowing what Rainbow Dash wanted sighed. "Only for RD. The two of them then began to reciet the chant". [bJunior Speedsters are our lives, Sky-bound soars and daring dives Junior Speedsters, it's our quest, To someday be the very best!] Pinkie Pie clapped after the song. "Oh that was awesome, and it gave me a great idea for a prank. Gilda, you game"? Gilda would be lying if she said she wasn't a little interested. "Huh. Well, I groove on a good prank as much as the next griffon. But Dash, you promised me we'd get a flying session in this morning". Rainbow Dash looked back at Pinkie and apologized to the young earth pony. "Yeah, uh, well, Pinkie Pie, you don't mind, do you? Gilda just got here. We'll catch up with you later". Pinkie Pie looked at Dash in dissapointment, before sighing. "Oh. Um, well sure, no problem. Have fun you guys, I'll, uh, just catch up with you—" Rainbow Dash, and Gilda then flew off in the opposite direction leaving Pinkie behind. About half and hour later Rainbow Dash, and Gilda flew onto a cloud and we're laughing with each other. Gilda smiled as it reminded her of their past together. " Whoa, that was sweet. Just like old times". Rainbow Dash couldn't agree more as she smiled at her old friend. "Yeah except faster, So now what"? Gilda was about to answer when all of a sudden Pinkie Pie jumped through the cloud they we're on confusing both Gilda, and Rainbow Dash. "Hi! It's later and I caught up". Rainbow Dash and Gilda looked down and saw that Pinkie Pie was jumping on a trampoline into the cloud. Seeing this caused Rainbow Dash to chuckle. "Pinkie Pie. You are so random". Gilda however was growing more and more annoyed. She had to think of something to get rid of Pinkie Pie. Luckliy for Gilda, an Idea was quickly able to pop into her head. "Hey Dash, think you got enough gas left to beat me to that cloud"? Rainbow looked over to where Gilda was pointing and smiled. "A race? You are so on". Gilda smiled back and began to count down. "Okay, three, two, one, Go"! The two of them flew off again leaving Pinkie behind! "Hey"! Rainbow Dash, and Gilda both made it the cloud close to around the same time making them both belive that the other had won. "I win"! Stated Dash, "No way". Gilda responed. "I won". The two of them began to argue about who had actually won their race when Pinkie Pie caught up with them again this time floating on some ballond "Wow guys, that was really close, but I think Rainbow Dash beat you by a teeny weeny itty bitty hair, or a teeny weeny itty bitty feather". Dash smiled at Pinkie Pie, and looked back at Gilda. "See! I told you". Gilda sighed. "Fine". Gilda looked around and saw another cloud. "Hey Dash how about we race to that cloud? Go"! Rainbow Dash flew off in the direction of the cloud Gilda pointed out, while Gilda turned to Pinkie Pie. "I think the high altitude is making you dizzy". Gilda then proceeded to pop Pinkie's Baloons. She then went to catch up with Rainbow Dash, but unfourtently for Gilda, Pinkie Pie once again caught up as well, this time on some strange flying contraption. "Phew, you guys almost got away from me that time, but luckliy I manged to catch up". Gilda looked over at Rainbow Dash once again. "Hey, You gotta any new tricks or are you completey old school". Rainbow Dash smiled at Gilda "New moves? Heh, sit back G, this is gonna take a while". Rainbow Dash quickly left to get somethings she would need in order to show Gilda her tricks. Once Rainbow Dash was out of sight Gilda looked over to Pinkie Pie. "Hey Pinkie, C'mere". Pinkie Pie looked at Gilda confused. "Yeah"? Gilda the proceeded to grab the handled bar of Pinkie's contraption, pulling both it and the young pony closer to her. Pinkie was shocked, and a little frightened by what Gilda was doing. Gilda then began to speak, and she made sure Pinkie understood what the griffion was saying to her. "Don't you know how to take get lost for an answer? Dash doesn't need to hang with a dweeb like you now that I'm here. You're dorkin' up the skies, Stinkie Pie, so make like a bee and BUZZ OFF"! Gilda then threw Pinkie and her contraption to the ground just as Rainbow Dash returned from doing her tricks. "Hah! See if you can top that". Rainbow Dash then noticed that Pinkie Pie was gone. "Hey, where's Pinkie, and that weird thing she was on"? Gilda looked at Dash, and lied to the pegasus. "Oh she had to go, something about being as busy as a bee". Pinkie Pie looked up, and groaned in anger before walking away. Later she was at Twilight's house talking with her, Spike, Reiner, Apple Bloom, and Bertholdt about Gilda, and after hearing everything Pinkie Pie had to say about Gilda Reiner spoke up. "So Pinkie Pie, are you sure that this friend of Rainbow Dash is really so mean"? Pinkie stared at Reiner and replied "Uh yeah! she keeps stealing Rainbow Dash away, she pops my balloons, and she told me to buzz off. I've never met a griffon this mean. Well, actually, I've never met a griffon at all, but I bet if I had, she wouldn't have been as mean and grumpy as Gilda". Twilight then spoke up. "You know what I think Pinkie". Pinkie stared at Twilight in confusion. Twilight sighed and told Pinkie Pie what she thought. "I think you're jealous of Gilda". Pinkie Pie gasped in shock. "Jealous"?! "Green with envy, or in your case Pink with envy stated Spike". Bertholdt then spoke up agreeing with Twilight. "Well, yes. Jealous. Listen Pinkie, I don't want to upset you, but just because Rainbow Dash has another friend doesn't make Gilda a grump. I mean, perhaps it's you, Pinkie, who needs to improve her attitude". Pinkie just stared at Bertholdt in shock and tried to find a way to counter his words. "Improve my attitude? But I... d... b.. it's Gilda that... d... are you seri..." Pinkie Pie couldn't find the words, and simply groaned in frustration before running out of the libary. Apple Bloom walked over to the older ponies. "Pinkie Pie seemed really upset about how we accused her of being jealous". Reiner nodded in agreement. "Yeah maybe we should check to see if she's okay". He looked over to Bertholdt. "You wanna come with"? Bertholdt looked at his friend. "Sure". he replied. So Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt left the libary to catch up with Pinkie Pie. The eventualy found her sitting in a cafe sipping on a milkshake. Apple Bloom called out to the party pony "Hey Pinkie Pie". Pinkie looked up and saw the three other ponies coming towards her. "Hey you guys". The three ponies each pulled up their own chairs and sat with Pinkie Pie, Bertholdt was the first to break the silence. "So, are you okay"? Pinkie Pie stared a him for a second before replying. "Yeah, and I've been thinking". "Thinking about what"? asked Reiner. Pinkie Pie looked up at him, and replied. "I've been thinking that maybe you guys might be right, and that I just am jealous of Gilda". Hearing this caused Reiner to give Pinkie Pie a small smile, he was proud that she was able to admit how she was feeling. The three of them sat and talked for a bit when Rainbow Dash and Gilda flew into the middle of town. "Is that Gilda?" Apple Bloom asked Pinkie Pie Pinkie Pie nodded in respone while glaring at Gilda. The four of them decieded to listen in on Gilda and Dash's conversation. Rainbow Dash was laughing. "That was awesome Gilda"! Rainbow Dash then grumbled in annoyance. "Ugh! , I gotta take care of a few weather jobs around here. Shouldn't take long. Just, uh, hang out in town and I'll come find ya". Gilda smiled at Dash. "That's cool , I guess. I'm gonna go chow down". Rainbow Dash smiled at her friend. "See you"! Once Dash left, Gilda began to walk through the town before eventually walking up to a fruit cart where Apple Bloom's grandmother Granny Smith was waiting to buy some fruit. Decieding this was the perfect oppurtiunty for a prank Gilda hid behind the cart and used her tail to tickle Granny Smith's nose. Granny Smith thinking the tail belonged to a rattle snake jumped back with a start. "Aaah! A rattler, a rattler Run for the hills! Everybody forsake yourselves"! Gilda looked at the salespony. "It's just not fresh dude". Pinkie having saw the whole thing got really angry. "That was so mean! I can't belive Gilda would do that to Granny Smith"! Apple Bloom also stared at Gilda upset that the griffion had startled her grandmother, but she decieded to represe her feelings not wanting to judge Gilda over one prank. Pinkie Pie also began to second guess herself thinking back to what Apple Bloom, Twilight, Bertholdt, Spike, and Reiner had all told her in the library. "No, no, I can't misjudge her. It was kind of a funny prank, I guess". Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom however we're starting to second guess themselves. Maybe Pinkie Pie was right about Gilda. Their supscions only grew when Gilda took an Apple off of a cart without paying, and ate it causing Pinkie Pie to gasp. "I did misjudge her! She's not only a meanie mean-pants, she's also a thief"! But she then second guessed herself again. "Nonononono, she might give it back. It's just a joke". "Are you sure about that Pinkie"? asked Bertholdt. Pinkie was about to ansewer when all of a sudden the four ponies stopped when they saw Fluttershy leading a family of ducks through the town. "All right little ones, this way, this way. Mama duck, you're free and clear". Fluttershy was so busy with the ducks and couldn't see where she was going which caused her to bump into Gilda who promptly shouted at the young pegasus. "Hey"! Fluttershy looked up at the Griffion. "Pardon me please". Gilda however only shouted at Fluttershy. "I'm walking here". Hearing and seeing this caused Reiner to get up, and walk over to the two of them as Fluttershy was trying to apologize. "Oh, um, I'm sorry. I-I-I was just trying to". Gilda only mocked the pegaus's apology I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Why don't you just watch where you're going, doofus? Fluttershy began to tremble unable to speak proplerly. "B-b-b-but I... I..." Just as things where getting intense Reiner made it to the two of them and put his hoof around Fluttershy. Seeing him caused the young girl to calm down a bit. Reiner looked at Gilda, then at Fluttershy before sighing and speaking to Fluttershy. "Come on lets go". He began to lead Fluttershy away when Gilda stopped them. "Hey! I wasn't done talking to your friend here. Don't you know it's rude to intterupte someone when they're talking". Reiner stared at Gilda before replying. "Look were sorry. We didn't mean to bother you so can we just". "I don't want your apoglizes you big oath"! Gilda intterupted. Just then Apple Bloom arrived and tried to calm the situation. "Ma'am please calm down, no one here meant any harm". Gilda just stared at the filly, and then she did something the shocked everyone. Gilda brought her claw up, and slapped Apple Bloom super hard, sending her flying into a cart of fruit. The ponies gasped as Reiner and Fluttershy ran over to see if Apple Bloom was alright. Gilda just scoffed. "Ugh, please, all these lame ponies are driving me buggy. I gotta bail". Pinkie Pie, and Bertholdt stood there in shock. "My god Pinkie, you we're right about her". Said Bertholdt. Pinkie who had a look of pure anger on her face stared back at him and said. "I know! She's a grump, and a thief, and a bully! The meanest kind of mean meanie-pants there is! I can take it, but no one treats Apple Bloom like that! No one. This calls for extreme measures, Pinkie Pie style"! You can count us in Reiner stated as he and Fluttershy returned with a dazed Apple Bloom on Reiner's back. Pinkie Pie smiled at her friends. "Alright then we do it together! What do you say Apple Bloom" Apple Bloom who was still dazed like a drunk old stalion could only muster one word. "Excelsior". A few hours after the whole fisco at the market place, Pinkie Pie had set up a party for Gilda. Everypony had shown up, Applejack was talking with Rarity wondering who Gilda was. "Who's this Gilda I've heard nothing about"? "I belive she's an old friend of Rainbow Dash's. A griffion to be exact, very rare". Rarity replied. Applejack then saw her little sister walking through the doors. "Howday there Apple Bloom". Apple Bloom turned and saw Applejack and Rarity. "Oh hey there you two". Rarity and Applejack walked up to Applejack and began a conversation with the little filly. "You've met Gilda right darling". Apple Bloom nodded. Applejack smiled, proud that her sister possbily made a new friend that wasn't a pony. "So, what's she like". "She's a jerk"! which is what Apple Bloom wanted to say, but she didn't. Insted she said. "Uh, Gilda's............. interesting". Applejack, and Rarity nodded, both satisfiyed with Apple Bloom's answer. At the other side of Sugarcube Corner Fluttershy, and Twilight we're watching Apple Bloom's conversation. This prompted Twilight to ask Fluttershy what she thought of Gilda? "Hey Fluttershy, you've met Gilda haven't you"? Fluttershy turned to Twilight and nodded softly so Twilight contiued. "Is she like Apple Bloom says she is". "Um............................." Fluttershy tried to responed all while remembering how Gilda yelled her back at the market Fluttershy was extremaly greatful that Reiner intervined when he did, she didn't want to think about what would have happened to her if he hadn't come to her rescue. Fluttershy then noticed Pinkie Pie, and decieded to head over to the party planner. "I'll tell you later". Fluttershy said excuesing herself from Twilight, and walking over to Pinkie Pie. The earth Pony was still welcoming more ponies when Fluttershy walked up to her, and began speaking. "Um, Pinkie Pie, about this party for Gilda. Umm... do you really think it's a good idea? I mean—" Pinkie Pie just smiled. "Don't worry your pretty little head about mean old Gilda. Your auntie Pinkie Pie's got it all taken care of". Fluttershy just frowned in annoyance as Pinkie Pie walked away. "I'm a year older then you". Fluttershy then got a look of fear in her eyes when the guest of honor arrived. Seeing the griffion Fluttershy quickly walked over to Reiner and Bertholdt, both of them glaring at the griffion. Oh how both of them wanted to transform into their Titan forms, and smash Gilda, but they manged to contain their anger and remain civil. Pinkie Pie, noticing Gilda immeditdley ran up to her. "Gilda! I'm so honored to throw you one of my signature Pinkie Pie parties, and I really, truly, sincerely, hope you feel welcome here amongst all us pony folk". Gilda took Pinkie Pie's hoof to shake, only to be electrocuted by the joy buzzer hidden on the pink pony's hoof. This caused both Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash to burst out laughing. "Oh Pinkie Pie, the old hoof buzzer trick, what a classic". Rainbow Dash said while still laughing. Gilda chuckled nervously and gave a forced smile. "Yeah........... Good one Pinkie Pie". Rainbow Dash walked over to her. "Come on Gilda I'll introduce you to my friends". Gilda smiled "Alright". She then turned back to Pinkie Pie and gave her a threathing glare. "I know what you're doing'. Pinkie Pie just smiled, and said "Great"! This made Gilda even more angry. "I know what you're planning". Pinkie Pie still acting oblivious to what Gilda was talking about responed with. "Well, I hope so. This wasn't supposed to be a surprise party". "I mean. I've got my eye on you". Again Pinkie Pie just smiled, and responded with "And I got my eyen on you". She then turned to the other guest and introduced them all to Gilda. "Everyone, I'd like you all to meet Gilda, a long-time, dear friend of Rainbow Dash. Let's honor her and welcome her to Ponyville". All the ponies cheered for Gilda as Pinkie Pie offered her a treat. "Here! Help yourself". Gilda smiled and took the snack. "Vanailla lemon drops? Don't mind if I do". Gilda plopped the lemon drop into her mouth and almost instantly felt a burning sensation in her mouth. She cried out in pain as Rainbow Dash called out to her. "G Hurry, the punch"! Gilda quickly ran over to the punch bowl and took a large gulp, or at least attempted to, because the punch was pouring onto her chest, and not into her mouth. That garnered another laugh from Pinkie Pie. "Well, whaddya know, pepper in the vanilla lemon drops, and the punch served in a dribble glass"! Rainbow Dash couldn't help but laugh as well. "Ha! Priceless"! Gilda also tried to force a smile. "Yeah....... Hilarious". Rainbow Dash then walked over to another table filled with wraped boxes. "Hey G look presents". Seeing the gifts on the table Gilda rushed over and picked up a cylinder shaped box. She exicedtly opened the box only to have a bunch of springing snakes jump out at her. This caused the other ponies to burst out laughing. "Spittin' snakes. Hah, somepony pulled that prank on me last month". Said Applejack. Gilda snorted. "Yeah, I bet I know what that was". "You do"? asked Pinkie Pie. Apple Bloom giggled before turning to her sister. "Applejack I need to tell you something". Applejack smiled at Apple Bloom "Sure thing sugarcube, what's up"? Apple Bloom whispered something into Applejack's ear. When Apple Bloom was done Applejack shot Gilda a menceing glare then switched back to a friendly smile when the Griffion looked her way. Pinkie Pie then called out to everyone at the party. "Alrighty everypony, it's time for cake". Spike spoke up to ask Pinkie a question. "Can I blow out the candles"? Twilight however gentley shot him down. "How about we let Gilda blow them out. She is the guest of honnor after all". "Exactly". Gilda replied. She went over to the candles and blew, however they lit up again so Gilda blew again, she kept blowing them out, but the candles kept on re-lighting causing everyone to start laughing. "Re-lighting birthday candles, I love that prank! What a classic". Spike said. Pinkie Pie walked over to the cake with a confused look on her face. "I wonder who could have done that"? Gilda looked up gritting her teeth. "Yeah. I wonder". Both of them we're taking out of their thoughts however by Spike. "Mmm, who cares. This cake is amazing". Reiner gasped seeing this. "Spike"! But the dragon remained oblivious to Reiner's complaint. "What? It's great, try some". Rainbow Dash walked over to Gilda with a concerend look on her face. "Hey G, you're not upset about some silly candles, are you"? Gilda turned to Dash, and gave her a reassuring smile. "No way, Dash. Like I said, I'm down with a good prank". Rainbow smiled after hearing that. "Come on then, let's have some cake". Gilda nodded before turning to Pinkie Pie, grabbing her by the throat, and dragging her behind. "Hey, I'm watching you. Like a hawk". Pinkie Pie simply smiled again and said. "Why? Can't you watch me like a griffon"? That's how she was feeling on the outside, but on the inside, Pinkie Pie was trembling. She was unable to recall a moment when she had been this terrified. Applejack and Apple Bloom having both seeing the whole think tried to think of something to defuse the situation. It was then Apple Bloom noticed a very popular party game over on the wall. "Hey y'all, it's pin the tail on the pony. Let's play". "Oh, my favorite game. Can I go first? Can I have the purple tail"? asked Rarity. Gilda however spoke up. "Well, since I'm the guest of honnor I'll have the purple tail". Pinkie Pie nodded with a smile on her face. "Yeah, Gilda should definitely go first. Let's get you blindfolded". Gilda nodded, but became confused when Pinkie grabbed onto her waist. "Hey what— ugh— what are you doing? Rrrah"! Gilda yelled as Pinkie Pie started to spin her around. "We're spinning you around and around and then you can pin the tail on the pony". After spinning Gilda at least three more times Pinkie stopped, and explained to the griffion the rules of the game. "Now just walk straight ahead and pin the tail". Gilda grumbled to herself, mocking what Pinkie Pie had told her. "Now just walk straight ahead and pin the tail". Gilda turned around and scoffed. "Hmph, yeah, right. This is another prank, isn't it? I'm going this way". She said walking in the opposite direction as Pinkie Pie despertley tried to stop her. "Wait. The poster is this—" But Pinkie was too late as Gilda sliped on some frosting from the cake, and flew right into the back kitchen. When she came back out, she was dazed and had the tail on her beek, which Pinkie Pie kidnly pointed out, "Uh, Gilda? You pinned the tail on the wrong end". Everypony started laughing, and Gilda. Finally. Snapped. She roared in anger and frustration, and flew up. 'This is your idea of a good time? I've never met a lamer bunch of dweebs in all my life! And Pinkie Pie, you. You are queen lame-o with your weak little party pranks! Did you really think you could make me lose my cool? Well, Dash and I have ten times as much cool as the rest of you put together"! Gilda then landed and called out to Rainbow Dash. "Come on Dash, we're bailing on this pathetic scene". Rainbow didn't move. "Come on Dash, I said we're leaving"! Rainbow Dash still didn't move, but she did speak up. "You know Gilda, I was the one who set up all those weak pranks at this party". Gilda gasped in shock "What"?! Rainbow Dash contiued. "So I guess I'm queen lame-o" Gilda just stood their, she couldn't belive what she was hearing. "Come on, Dash, you're joshing me". Dash just stared at Gilda some more "They weren't all meant for you specifically, it was just dumb luck that you set them all off". Pinkie Pie suddendly understood what had been happening. "I shoulda known, that dribble cup had Rainbow Dash written all over it". Gilda could only stammer for a bit before being able to conpose herself. "No way, i-it was Pinkie Pie! She set up this party to trip me up, to make a fool of me". Pinkie Pie gasped in offense. "Me? I threw this party to improve your attitude. I thought a good party might turn that frown upside down". Rainbow Dash looked at Gilda and contiued. "You didn't need any help making a fool out of yourself Gilda, and I wouldn't have done all this if you hadn't done what you did in town today". A few hours eariler. Rainbow Dash returned from her weather duties and began to search for Gilda "Gilda"? She called, but got no answear. Dash looked around, and saw Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom (Now able to walk) comming towards her. "Hey everyony, have you seen my friend Gilda"? Reiner spoke up, "Yeah we actually want to talk to you about her". Rainbow Dash looked at him in confusion. "Oh, what's up"? That's when Pinkie Pie blurted out. "She's a bully"! Rainbow Dash was dumbfounded by what Pinkie just said. "What are you talking about"? she asked "She played a really mean trick on my Grandmother"! Stated Apple Bloom. Rainbow Dash looked at her and smiled. "Oh Gilda was probally just joking around, I'm sure she ment know harm". "She then Stole an Apple"! Said Pinkie Pie. That took Rainbow Dash aback, and she started to ponder what they we're saying, but once again brushed it off. "Like I said, it was probaly just a harmless prank". "After that, she bullied Fluttershy, just for walking into her"! Ranted Bertholdt! Fluttershy nodding in agreement. Now Rainbow Dash was starting to take the whole thing seriously. "Are you sure"? Now it was Reiner's turn to speak. "Finally, she slapped Apple Bloom, and sent her flying into a fruit cart". Apple Bloom nodded, and showed Rainbow Dash the red mark Gilda left her. Seeing this, finally made Dash realize that what her friends we're saying we're most likely true, and she couldn't let Gilda get away with any of this. Back in the present Rainbow Dash looked at Gilda in dissapointment. "You know, this is not how I thought my old friends would treat my new friends. If all you care about is being cool, then maybe you should go find some cool, new friends to hang out with". Gilda just stood there, her anger boiling inside her. She then turned her eyes to Pinkie Pie. "You". Pinkie Pie stared at her in confusion "Huh"? Suddendly without warning, Gilda lunged at Pinkie, grabbing her by the neck again, and pinning her to the wall. "THIS IS ALL YOU'RE FAULT! YOU MAD RAINBOW DASH SOFT! YOU" Gilda was intterupted when Rainbow Dash flew up, and kicked her in the gut, making the griffion let go of Pinkie. Gilda stared at her old friend in shock before eventually getting up. She stared at Rainbow Dash, enraged. "Rrgh... yeah? Well you, you... you are such a, a flip-flop, cool one minute and lame the next. When you decide not to be lame anymore, gimme a call". With that Gilda walked out the door, confusing everypony. "Not cool". stated Rainbow Dash "Wow, talk about a Party pooper", Said Spike. Twilight nodded in agreement. "Yeah, what was that all about"? The ponies began to talk amongst themselves, when Rainbow Dash spoke up. "I'm sorry everypony, for bringing Gilda here. I didn't know how rude she was". She then walked over to Pinkie Pie. "And Pinkie Pie, I'm really sorry she ruined that awesome party you put on for her". Pinkie Pie just smiled at Rainbow Dash. "Hey if you want to hang out with party poopers then that's your bussiness". Rainbow Dash smiled. "I'd rather hang with you. No hard feelings"? Pinkie Pie smiled back at Rainbow Dash. "No hard feelings". Twilight, and Reiner then walked up to the two of them, and Reiner spoke to Pinkie Pie. "Hey Pinkie. Sorry we accused you of misjudging Gilda. Looks like we're the ones who misjudged you". Pinkie Pie gave the two of them a reassurng grin. "Oh that's ok Reiner even you can't be a super smart smarty smart-pants all the time. Come on everypony, there's still a whole lotta party to finish". The party contiued while Twilight wrote out another letter to Princess Celestia. "Dearest Princess Celestia, Today I learned that it's hard to accept when somepony you like wants to spend time with somepony who's not so nice. Though it's impossible to control who your friends hang out with, it is possible to control your own behavior. Just continue to be a good friend. In the end, the difference between a false friend and one who's true will surely come to light." In Canterlot, Celestia pulled out her own pen and paper and began to write Twilight back. "Dear Twilight Sparkle, My most faithful student." Celestia stopped when she realized she was using dissapearing ink. "Oops, wrong ink". Back at Sugarcube Corner the party was finally over, and ponies were leaving, Reiner being the last one out, before he left, he turned to Pinkie Pie. "Hey, are you going to be ok? I mean after what Gilda did to you, and" Pinkie Pie smiled and told him "Don't worry Reiner, I'll be fine". Reiner smiled at the party pony, and left. Once Reiner was gone, Mr. and Mrs. Cake walked over and put their hooves on Pinkie Pie. This told her that the other ponies were gone. Knowing that the cost was clear, Pinkie Pie finally broke down, and began to sob, and trembele. "I was so scared, I thought she was going to". She couldn't bring herself to finish and contiued to cry while the cakes assured her that everything would be alright. Preview. When a traveling magcian arrives in Ponyville, and begins boasting about how great she is, Twilight is hesientant to stand up to her, Believing her friends will hate her. Next Episode Boast Busters. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Pinkie Pie Twilight Sparkle Rainbow Dash Golden Harvest Sweetie Drops Minuette Derpy Hooves Bertholdt Hoover/Colossal Titan Spike Princess Celestia Rarity Applejack Apple Bloom Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Fluttershy Gilda Granny Smith Big Macintosh Berry Punch Mr. Cake Mrs. Cake
Episode 11: Boast Busters: Gala arc Part 4Twilight Sparkle, Princess Celestia's most faithful student was pratcticng some new magic spells, in her home in Ponyville. Helping her out was her dragon assistaint Spike, and Apple Bloom, the little sister of Twilight's friend Applejack. The two of them stood in anticipation, as Twilight was about to perform her next spell. Spike in particular was really excited for this next one. "Come on, Twilight. You can do it"! Twilight nodded, she had complete confidiance in herself right now. "Alright, here I go". Twilight's horn began to glow, she strained with all her might. Apple Bloom watched the event from her spot in the library. "Come on Ms. Twilight, you can do this". And she did, with one poof the spell worked. A short but very noticble mustache appeared on Spike's face. "Ha ha! Ya did it! Growing magic". Twilight smiled, and looked over at Apple Bloom. "Alright, Apple Bloom, how many is that"? "That would be twenty five, Ms. Twilight". Twilight smiled, and looked over at Spike who was admiring himself in the mirrior. "I'll say, this has the be the best Spell yet". Spike then began to imange himself talking to Rarity "Hello, Rarity. What's that? Aw, it's nothin', just my awesome mustache". Twilight, and Apple Bloom both laughed at Spike's fanasty. Unfourtently for the dragon though, it was time for Twilight to "ruin his fun" "Sorry, Romeo. As attractive and enticing as you look, it's just for practice, and it's gotta go". "Wait"! Spike tried to protest, but he was unsucessful. "Aw, rats"! Twilight and Apple Bloom again started to laugh while Spike sighed in despair. Apple Bloom then spoke up. "Oh Spike, don't go being like that. You don't need facial hair to impress a girl". Spike looked up at Apple Bloom as she contiued talking. "You're fine just the way you are". Twilight nodded agreeing with what Apple Bloom had said. This caused Spike to smile and start laughing as well. Twilight, Spike, and Apple Bloom we're all walking through the town. The whole time Spike was excidetly talking about, all the spells Twilight had performed that day. "Twenty-five, Twilight. Twenty-five different kinds of tricks and counting". "I thought unicorns were only supposed to have a little magic that matches their special talents". said Apple Bloom. Twilight smiled at the two of them. "True, for ponies whose talents are for things like cooking or singing or math. But what if a unicorn's special talent is magic"? "Like you, Twilight, and you know a ton of magic". stated Spike. Twilight blushed in embarsement. "Oh, Spike, stop. I'm sure there are lots of ponies right here in Ponyville that know just as much magic as me". Spike just scoffed firmly beleving that no one could ever compare to Twilight. "Are you kiddin'? I don't think there's another unicorn in all of Equestria with your kind of ability, Twilight". Twilight couldn't help, but smile at her number one assiantant. All of a sudden, the three of them heard a voice yell out. " Gangway! Comin' through"! Apple Bloom, Spike, and Twilight turned around to see the two young unicorn colts Snips, and Snails running at them at full speed. Twilight, and Apple Bloom stepped to the side, and out of the way of the two young colts. Spike however was unable to move, and ended being taken along with both Snips, and Snails. " Augh! Snips, Snails! What's goin' on"? Snails looked at Spike in confusion. " Wha, haven't you heard"? Spike was thrown off of Snips horn, as the two unicorns came to an abrubt halt. Twilight, and Apple Bloom qucikly caught up with the three boys, as Snips began to explain what was going on. "There's a new unicorn in town"! Snails nodded in exicetment. "Yeah! They say that she's got more magical powers than any other unicorn ever"! "Really"? asked Twilight. Spike scoffed after hearing what Snails had said. There was absoultely no way any unicorn had more maigc then Twilight, and was going to make sure these two knew that. "Aw, no way, that honor goes to Twilight here". Twilight again blushed in embarassment. Apple Bloom looked over at Snips, and Snails, who both blushed themselves when they saw her staring. "So, where is this unicorn"? Apple Bloom asked Snails, and Snips both quickly snapped back into reality. "Oh! She's in Town Square". Come on! Snails said as he, and Snips led Twilight, Apple Bloom, and Spike to where this unicorn was. Arrving at the town square Twilight, Spike, and Apple Bloom saw some sort of stage wagon in the middle, and a bunch of ponies surronding it. The three of them pushed their way through the crowd, and met up with their friends. Apple Bloom was the first to speak up. "What's going on here"? "I'm not sure, this wagon just showed up in town, and now everypony is interested to see what this is all about". Replied Reiner. All of a sudden a voice spoke out from behind the curtian of the stage wagon. "Come one, come all! Come and witness the amazing magic of the Great and Powerful Trixie"! A blue unicorn wearing a magican's costume appeared on the stage with a very smug smile on her face. The ponies stared at her in confusion as she began to adress the crowd. "Watch in awe as the Great and Powerful Trixie performs the most spectacular feats of magic ever witnessed by pony eyes"! Rarity only rolled her eyes, unamused by Trixie's braging. "My, my, my! What boasting"! Spike was also angered by this new unicorn's attitude, and was going to make sure everyone there new it. "Come on, nopony's as magical as Twi—' However he began to stutter when he realized that he was standing right next to his crush. "Twi— Twi— Oh! Hey, Rarity, I, uh—" Spike then remembered he didn't have any facial hair anymore! "Mustache"! As Spike ran off Twilight looked over at Applejack with worried eyes. "There's nothing wrong with being talented, is there"? "Nothin' at all, 'cep'n when someone goes around showin' it off like a school filly with fancy new ribbons". Rarity nodded in agreement "Just because one has the ability to perform lots of magic does not make one better than the rest of us". "Especially when ya got me around being better than the rest of us". Rainbow Dash stated with pure confidance. That statment only earned her several looks disapproval from the others, causing dash to chuckle nervously. "Eh, I mean, yeah, uh, magic shmagic. Boo"! Trixie, having heard everything took great offense to what they were saying, and almost instantly called them out. "Well, well, well, it seems we have some neighsayers in the audiance! Who is so igronant as to challenge the magical ability of the Great and Powerful Trixie? Do they not know that they're in the presence of the most magical unicorn in all of Equestria"? "Who the hell does she think she is"? asked Bertholdt. Again, Spike spoke up in favor of Twilight. "Yeah! Since we all know that Twilight here is—" "Spike Shhh"! Twilight whispered. This garnered a confuse look from the dragon. "What? What's wrong"? he asked. Twilight took Spike aside and began to explain why she didn't want him to talk about her magic skills. "You see the way they reacted to Trixie? I don't want anyone thinking I'm a show-off". While Spike, and Twilight were talking Rainbow Dash flew up to Trixie and began perstering the new unicorn to proove what she's saying is true. "So, "Great and Powerful Trixie". What makes you think you're so awesome, anyway"? Trixie only smirked in response. "Heh, why, only the Great and Powerful Trixie has magic strong enough to vanquish the dreaded ursa major"! The crowd gasped in shock as Trixie used a fireworks display to show them exactly how she "defeated" said Ursa Major. No pony was more impressed by the display then Snips, and Snails. "What"? "No way". Trixie then proceeded to tell the citzens of ponyville the story of her "great encounter" "When all hope was lost, the ponies of Hoofington had no one to turn to, but the Great and Powerful Trixie stepped in, and with her awesome magic, vanquished the ursa major and sent it back to its cave deep within the Everfree Forest"! Snips, and Snails both smiled in delight after hearing the story. "Awesome"! They said in uinson. Snips spoke up for all the crowd to hear. "That settles it"! "Trixie is the most powerful unicorn in Ponyville"! Snails stated. "No! All of Equestria"! Hearing this Only made Spike angrier. He couldn't belive that the two unicorn colts we're falling for Trixie's lies. "How do you know? You didn't see it! And besides, Twi—" Before he could finsh Twilight used another spell to zip his mouth shut, all the while Trixie laughed, clearly amused by Snips, and Snails admoration for her. "It's true, my enthusiastic little admirers. Trixie is most certainly the best in Ponyville". None of ponies responded to Trixie's claim, in fact the only thing she really got was an eye roll from Bertholdt. Trixie noticeing that no one had reacted then decieded to offer them something. "Don't believe the Great and Powerful Trixie? Well then, I hereby challenge you, Ponyvillians. Anything you can do, I can do better. Any takers? Anyone? Hmm? Or is Trixie destined to be the greatest equine who has ever lived"!? Spike, having finally had enough unziped his mouth, got on the ground and begged Twilight to do something. "Please! She's unbearable! Ya gotta show her! Ya just gotta"! Twilight however refused. "There's no way I'm going to use my magic now, Spike. Especially since—" But before she could finish, Trixie found a Pony she wanted to challange. "How about You"! Twilight, thinking Trixie was pointing at her gulped nervously. Twilight was still standing there dumbfounded as Trixie kept on speaking. "Well, how about it? Hm? Is there anything you can do that the Great and Powerful Trixie can't"? Twilight who was still in shock was trying to find the words to say. "I— I—" But Twilight soon noticed that Trixie wasn't talking to her, she was talking to Applejack. "Well, little hayseed"? Applejack, gasped at Trixie's insult. There was no way in hell she was going to take that sitting down. "That's it! I can't stand for no more of this"! Apple Bloom looked up at her big sister. Applejack stared at the little filly and gave her a reassuring smile. "Don't ya worry none little one, I got this". "Yeah go Applejack"! Spike called out. "With that, Applejack walked on to the stage". "Can your magical powers do This"? Applejack started to do serveal tricks with her laso. Once she was done, Applejack gave Trixie a very smug look. "Top that missy". Trixie only responded with a yawn, clearly unimpressed with what Applejack did. "Oh ye of little talent. Watch and be amazed at the magic of Trixie"! Trixie lit up her horn, and took hold of the rope. She then began to move it around like a snake, in front of Applejack. Trixie then wraped the rope around Applejack's hooves, fliped her upside down, and put an Apple in her mouth. The crowd laughed as Applejack hobbled off the stage, Apple Bloom rushing over to make sure she was alright. Trixie laughed out loud. "Once again, the Great and Powerful Trixie prevails". Reiner was begining to have enough, Trixie wasn't just a showoff, she was entitled, and a bully. Sure he's done way worse things, but still, what Trixie was doing was too much. He was about to step up to her, when Rainbow Dash flew into Trixie face. "There's no need to show off in front of everyone here"! Trixie raised an eyebrow at the cyan pegaus, but let her contiue. "That's what I do". Rainbow Dash proceeded to fly up into the sky, spin on a windmill, go throw some clouds, and came back down, landing with a screeching halt on Trixie's stand. The crowd cheered in delight at Dash's peformance. "They don't call me "Rainbow" and "Dash" for nothin'"! Even Trixie had to admit she was a little impressed by Rainbow Dash's skills, but Trixie was never one to play fair, and she had no intentions on starting now. "When Trixie is through, the only thing they'll call you is loser". Once again, Trixie lit up her horn, and grabbed the rainbow that had appered over Dash, causing it to Spin around Dash, making the pegaus extreneley disy. "Whoa! Whoa! Whoa-a-a-a"! Finally Dash stopped spinning. "I, think, I'm gonna be sick". Trixie stared smuggly at the crowd. "Seems like anypony with a Dash of good sense would think twice before tussling with the Great Trixie". Trixie then used a cloud to zap Dash with a bolt of lighting. Twilight and her friends couldn't belive how rude Trixie was being. "What we need is another unicorn to challenge her. Someone with some magic of her own". said Spike Rainbow Dash nodded in agreement. " Yeah! A unicorn to show this one who's boss" Applejack also agreed. "A real Unicorn, on Unicorn brawl". Reiner looked over at Twilight, and saw that she was getting nervous, so he decieded to do it himself. Despite not being a unicorn for very long, and still getting use to this knew world he and Bertholdt we're in, Reiner just couldn't stand Trixie and how annoying she was. But just as Reiner was about to confront her, Rarity stepped in front of him. She looked back at Reiner, as if to tell him she's got this. Rarity turned back around and looked at Trixie dead in the eye. "Enough. Enough, all of you. I take your hint, but Rarity is above such nonsense. Rainbow Dash and Applejack may behave like ruffians, but Rarity conducts herself with beauty and grace". Trixie just smiled. "Ooo, what's the matter? Afraid you'll get a hair out of place in that rat's nest you call a mane"? That got Rarity. No one ever insults her mane. Trixie had crossed a very big line, and Rarity was going to make sure she new it. " Oh, it. Is. On! You may think you're tough with all of your so-called powers, but there's more to magic than your brutish ways. A unicorn needs to be more than just muscle. A unicorn needs to have style". That statment caused the crowd to gasp in suprise. "A unicorn is not a unicorn without grace and beauty". As Rarity kept on talking, Trixie just yawned and performed a Spell. Spike smiled in delight, after all if Twilight wouldn't stand up to Trixie, then Rarity surley could. That was, until Spike saw what Trixie had done. "Rarity won't let Trixie get the best of her! She's strong, she's beautiful, she's—" Hearing the audiance gasp, Rarity instantly knew something was wrong. "Quick, Somepony grab me a mirror! I need a mirror"! She called out. Rarity then looked over at her friends. "What did she do to my hair"?! "Nothing! Said Twilight "It's fine"! Said Rainbow Dash "It's gorgeous"! Said Applejack "It's Perfect"! Said Reiner "Spectactular"! Said Bertholdt "It's just as beautiful as ever"! Said Apple Bloom. "It's green". Said Spike, prompting all of them to give him a glare. "What"? Rarity looked up and saw that Spike was right. Her eyes filled with tears. "Ugh, no. Green hair! Not green hair"! Rarity ran of the stage crying in despair. "Such an awful, awful color"! One pony, who happened to have green hair scoffed, insaulted by Rarity's statment. "Well, I never". After Rarity ran off Spike turned to Twilight, she just had to show up Trixie in order to teach that Unicorn a lesson she wouldn't forget. He just hoped that Twilight would agree. "Well Twilight, guess it's up to you. Come on, show her what you're made of". But Twilight just chuckled nervously. "What do you mean? I'm nothing special". Spike, knowing that wasn't true tried his best to reason with Twilight, and make her see that she could beat Trixie. "Yes, you are! You're better than her"! Again Twilight refused to do anything though, and now she was even more nervous because ponies were all staring at her. "I'm not better than anyone". Trixie, having heard Twilight, and Spike's conversation, scoffed and began to walk towards them, eyes directley on Twilight who was now getting even more nervous. Seeing that Twilight was uncomfterble, Reiner stepped in front of her, something the lavnder unicorn was greatful for, especialy when Trixie began talking. "Hah! You think you're better than the Great and Powerful Trixie? You think you have more magical talent? Well, come on, show Trixie what you've got. Show us all". Twilight gulped nervously as Trixie began pestering her. "Who, me? I'm just your run-of-the-mill citizen of Ponyville. No powerful magic here. I, uh... I think I hear my laundry calling. Sorry, gotta go". Spike looked on in worry as Twilight ran off. "Twilight"? Trixie however just laughed seeing Twilight run off in embarssement. "Ha! Once again, the Great and Powerful Trixie has proven herself to be the most amazing unicorn in all of Equestria. Huh, was there ever any doubt"? Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Spike, Apple Bloom, Reiner, Rarity, and Bertholdt looked on as Twilight ran off. All of them were extremley worried for their friend. "Gee, I sure hope she's going to be alright". Stated Rainbow Dash. "I'll go make sure". Said Reiner. Applejack looked at the unicorn Stalion, and gave him a small smile. "Thank ya kindly Reiner, I'd really like to know what's wrong". "She doesn't want to stand up to Trixie, because she thinks you'll hate her if she uses her magic to show Trixie up". answered Spike. They all looked at him in shock. "Hate her, oh heavens no"! exclamied Rarity. "Why on earth would she think that"? asked Bertholdt. "Probaly because how you acted when Trixie was doing her magic tricks, Applejack you even said that being talent is bad, when somepony shows off". Replied Apple Bloom Applejack looked down in shame. "You're right little sis, this is all my fault. I should have been more clear as to what I meant". Rainbow Dash put a hoof on Applejack's shoulder. "We're all to blame for this AJ. None of us were clear as to what we meant in this situation". The friends all looked down feeling gulity about the situation. "Alright", Reiner spoke up. I'm going to make sure Twilight's alright, and let her know that we will always be there for her no matter what". Spike looked at the unicorn stalion with a huge smile on his face. "Thank you Reiner, Thank you". With that, Reiner headed for the Golden Oak Library. Currently Publicly Available Information Ursas. Creatures that live in the everfree forest. They are very simlar to bears, but much larger, and are transparent in color, with Stars over ther bodies. Babies are referred to as Ursa Minors, and grow to about 15 meters tall, which is the largest height of most Titans, where as the adults are called Ursa Majors, and grow to about 60 meters, roughly the same height as the Colossal Titan Reiner arrived at the library, and opened the door. When he walked inside he found Twilight, by her podium, reading a book. "Hey, Twi......... What are you doing"? Twilight turned around, and gave him a small smile. "Hi Reiner, I'm just doing some reading". "Reading about what? asked Reiner". "Oh uh, just some research on some random things". Stated Twilight. Reiner looked at Twilight in confusion, but brushed his supscions off. "Listen, Twilight Spike told us how you've been feeling, and I just wanted to let you know, that none of us will think badly of you, if you use your magic". "Yes you will". Twilight said blankly. So don't lie to me Reiner". Reiner was taken aback at Twilight's response. He tried to think of a way to reason with her. "Twi, That's not true, and you". "Yes it is"! Reiner sighed, knowing he couldn't get through to Twilight, he left the libary in silence. As Reiner left the Library and began walking down the street, he ran into Spike, and Bertholdt. Both of them had looks of worry on their face. Seeing Reiner they walked up to him, Spike was the first to speak. "Hey Reiner, how's Twilight doing"? "She refuses to listen to me, she's so convinced we'll hate if she stands up to Trixie". Spike looked down sadly, he couldn't believe Twilight was being this stubborn, and not using her magic to stand up for her friends. He was about to say something else, when all three of them noticed Snips and Snails walking by with a smoothie on Snips Back. "What are those two up too? asked Spike". "I'm not sure, but lets go see. You coming Bertholdt"? asked Reiner. "Yeah, let's go". Bertholdt replied. Snips, and Snails contiued walking through town, until they came upon Trixie, who was busy brushing mane. She reeled back in shock when Snips shoved the smoothie into her face. "Here's your smoothie you asked for, with extra hay, just how you like it". Trixie tooked the smoothie, and started to drink it, stopping when she noticed Snips, and Snails giving her very weird looks. "Yes"? "Tell us another story". said Snails. "Yeah, tell us about how you defeated an Ursa Major"! Snips requested. Trixie groaned in annoyance. "Guh! Trixie is far too exhausted from performing feats beyond imagination. Begone with you until morning". Snips, and Snails slowly began to back away, all while still praising Trixie. "Oh, of course, Great and Powerful Trixie". "Whatever you say". The two colts kept walking backwards until they bumped into Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt. "What are you doing"? asked Spike "Just bringin' the Gee an' Pee Tee a—" "The what"? Bertholdt asked in confusion. "The Great and Powerful Trixie". Snips replied. "Sheesh. Spike groaned. "We brought her a smoothie". Snips continued. Reiner looked at the two colts, before sighing. "You guys seriously belive everything she says is true"? Snips and Snails both nodded in response which caused Spike to get even more frustrated. "How can you fall for her lameness? She's just a show-off. Unlike Twilight, who—" Snips intteruppted Spike before he could finish is sentence. "The Great and Powerful Trixie vanquished an ursa major. Can your Twilight claim that"? Spike however only scoffed in response. "Oh really? Were you guys actually there"? Snips began to stutter. "Well, eh, uh... no, but—" "But nothing, You weren't there, and unless and ursa comes walking up the street for Trixie to vanquish, I'm not going going to believe it, and neither should you". Snips began to ponder Spike's words, and soon an Idea popped into his head. "An ursa walking up the street eh"? He looked over at Snails. You thinking what I'm thinking. "Why is it called a flea market if i doesn't sell fleas"? Snips slapped his forhead in frustration. "No! Ugh, come on"! With that, Snips and Snails left, leaving, Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt to wonder what they we're up too. "What do you think their planning"? asked Bertholdt. "I'm not sure, but we shouldn't worry about, we need to figure out what to do with Twilight". Reiner replied. He then turned over to her number one assistant. "Spike, do you think maybe you you could convince her to use her magic, and stand up to Trixie". Spike gave Reiner a smile and saluted. "You can count on me"! Spike left to go to the library with the intend on convincing Twilight to use her skills. Once he arrived, Spike found Twilight, still reading that same book. He went over and grabbed the chart they had been working on eariler that day. "Twilight, can you please put down that book, and listen to me just for a minute"? Twilight knew what Spike was going to ask her, and she had no plans on fufilling his request. "Didn't you see how they hated Trixie's bragging, Spike? If I go out there and show off my magic, I run the risk of losing them as friends". Spike tried his best to reason with Twilight. "It's not the same thing, Twilight. You'll be using your magic to stand up for your friends"! Twilight however refused to listen to what Spike was saying. "It is the same Spike". Spike just stood in shock, he couldn't believe that Twilight was being so unreasonable. "What is wrong with you?! Are you so worried about the possiblity of loosing your friends that you can't stand the idea that you might be wrong". "I'm not Spike! I'm not going to show up Trixie"! Spike began to list off all the spells Twilight could use. "Come on, Twilight, any one of these tricks, even the teeniest, would be enough to show up Trixie". Twilight still wouldn't listen. "I don't wanna be known as a bragger". "But you're the best"! Stated Spike "Spike, stop! I said no"! Realizing he too couldn't get through to Twilight Spike sighed in defeat. "If that's the way you want to be, then fine". Spike left the library, and Twilight went back to reading her book. Spike walked for a little while thinking to himself. "I don't understand, Why can't Twilight see that if she uses her magic to stand up to Trixie, our friends won't hate her". Spike got more and more frustrated, to the point where he picked up a rock and through it at a wall making a loud clang. "DAMNIT"! The combanation of the rock hitting the wall, and Spike's yell, happened to wake up Apple Bloom, who opened her window and looked out. Seeing Spike, she called out to him. "Spike, what are you doing, and why are you shouting, and throwing things at my familes house"? Spike looked up, and blushed in embarrasment once he realized that he was on Sweet Apple Acres. "Oh um sorry Apple Bloom, I'm just a little frustrated about how Twilight's being. She still thinks everypony will hate her if she stands up to Trixie". "Didn't you tell her that wasn't the case"? Apple Bloom asked. "Reiner and I both did". Spike replied. Apple Bloom pondered what Spike had said, and soon was abel to come up with an idea. "Maybe she'll listen if all of you tell her that you guys won't hate her if she uses her magic". Spike thought about it, and smiled. "That's perfect! Apple Bloom you goddamn genius"! Apple Bloom blushed and gave Spike a small smile, that made the dragon's heart melt. "Well I gotta get going, I'll see you around Apple Bloom". With that, Spike left the farm, and Apple Bloom closed her window, but just as she was about to go back to bed Applejack came in, with a confused look on her face. "Apple Bloom who we're you talkin to"? "Oh, just Spike big sis". Apple Bloom then proceeded to tell Applejack about what she and Spike talked about. Applejack agreed to Apple Bloom's plan. Meanwhile in the Everfree Forest Snips and Snails found themselves walking into a dark cave. The two colts kept blindly walking forward until Snips realized their situation. "Oh, how we gonna find an ursa major when I can't even see my own hoof in front of my face"? "Hold on". Snails began to light up his horn brighting up the cave. "Oh, that is better". Snips stated. Unfourtnetley for them, a huge blue bear happened to sleeping right behind them, and Snails light was enough to awaken the giant creature, and it was not happy to see two intuders in it's home. The bear growled at the boys, and slowy began to stand. Snips and Snails both screamed, and ran out of the cave with the ursa in hot pursit. Elsewhere, Spike was walking alone, when he heard the screams. He looked up and saw Snips and Snails running for their very lives. Confused, Spike called out to them. "Hey, guys, where ya goin"? But they ignored him. "Can't talk now"! Snips called back "Got a major problem"! Snails stated. "Yeah! Ursa Major to be exact". Spike looked at them confused, until he heard a loud roar. He turned and saw the bear that Snips, and Snails we're running from. "TRIXIE"! Snips and Snails screamed "Twilight"! Spike yelled. Snips, and Snails ran as fast as their hooves could carry them. They kept running until they came up to Trixie's wagon yelling and pleading for her to wake up. Trixie came up to the door, and wasn't to pleased to see the young colts again. "Trixie thought she said the Great and Powerful Trixie did not want to be disturbed"! Snips began to explain the situation. "We— We have a— a tiny problem". "Actually it's a big one". Snails Corrected Trixie, annoyed honestly didn't care what it was they were going on about. "What is so important that you cannot wait until moring to disturb Trixie"?! It was then she heard the growl. Trixie looked past the two, and saw the ursa major emerge from the treeline. (XLTT Plays) Trixie screamed in horror, and ran out of her wagon, Snips and Snails following behind while the ursa smashed the wagon under it's paw. Meanwhile, Spike ran back to the golden oak library, and burst through the door finding Twilight still reading the same book. "Twilight! You gotta come, quick"! "I already told you Spike, I'm not going to show up Trixie". "No you don't understand"! Twilight was about to protest, when she heard the roar. "Uh, is that what I think it is"? "Majorly". Spike confirmed. The ursa had manged to corner Trixie, Snips, and Snails, the latter two urging the former to fight it. "Great and Powerful Trixie, you've got to vanquish the ursa". "Yeah! Vanquish so we can watch"! "It took a lot of trouble to bring that thing here"! Trixie looked back at the two of them in shock. "Wait! You brought this here!? Are you crazy"!? Snips looked at Trixie in confusion, wondering why she was so nervous. "But, you're the Great and Powerful Trixie". "Yeah, remember. You defeated an ursa major"! Snails reminded her. Trixie gulped nervously before finally agreeing to their request. "Alright, st-stand back". Trixie ordered with a shakey voice. She then used her magic to pull out the same rope she used against Applejack eairler that moring, and began to tie it around the ursa. "Their, piece of cake". Trixie said nerously. Unfourntently for them however, The rope only went around two of the bear's fingers which it eaisly snapped. Snips and Snails looked on in confusion. "Oh come on Trixie"! "Yeah, Stop messing around and defeat it already". Trixie tried another spell, but only manged to summon a small storm cloud "Well, that sucked". Snails Stated. "Yeah, what gives?! Where's all the cool explosions and smoke and stuff like earlier? You know". Just after Snips had said that a bolt of lighting shot out of the cloud, striking the ursa in the rear causing the beast to roar out in anger. Trixie and the boys screamed and ran in the opposite direction while the ursa kept roaring, awakening the citizens of ponyville, who all ran away from the monster, while Twilight, and Spike ran towards it, meeting up with Bertholdt and Reiner. the four of them then met up with Snips, and Snails. "What the Hell is happening! Asked Twilight. "We brought an Ursa to town". Snips said with a triumphant smirk on his face. "You what"!? exclamied Reiner. Snails looked at Twilight and Spike with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, The Great and Powerful Trixie will vanquish it"! he said reassuringly. Trixie however just stood in place, before sighing and making a confession. "I can't". Snips and Snails, both gasped in shock and shouted. "WHAT"?! Trixie then contiued. "Oh, I can't, I never have. No one can vanquish an ursa major. I just made the whole story up to make me look better". "MADE IT UP"!? the boys exclaimed in shock. They we're all taken out of their states when the ursa roared again. Spike turned to Twilight, and pointed at the bear. Twilight gulped, but quickly copsed herself, and walked towards the ursa. Bertholdt looked over to Reiner with a worried expression. "Reiner, maybe you should". "No. Reiner intterupted. If Twilight's life is in real danger, then I'll step in as the Armored Titan". Reiner whispered to Bertholdt. Twilight meanwhile was lighting up her horn. She grunted, and strained until the spell she was trying to use finally worked. The townsfolk looked around whe a soft gentle tune began to play in the ursa's ears. The bear quickly went from angry to calm. Spike smiled in exicetment. "Nice use of number sixteen"! Twilight strained some more, and lifted the dome off of the town's watertower. Dumping out the water, moving it inside a barn filled with a bunch cows, and filling it with milk. "Well damn". Spike Stated. The Bear began to topple over, only for Twilight to catch it. With all her stregth she lifted the ursa, gave it the milk, which it started drinking like a bottle. Finally Twilight, using her magic manged to gentley float it all the way back to it's cave. Twilight sighed in refief, she was tired after all that, but was snapped back awake by cheers and appluads. She turned around to see all her friends cheering for her. "Unbeilveable"! Stated Rainbow Dash. "That was amazing"! Said Spike "Heavens to Betsy! We knew you had ability, but not that much"! Applejack pointed out. Twilight began to panic, thinking her friends we're angry with her. "I'm sorry. Please, please don't hate me". Rarity smiled at Twilight. "Oh darling, Spike told us how you we're feeling durning the show. We don't hate you, but we would like to know why you would think that we would". Twilight looked down, and responeded "Well, I know how much you all hated Trixie's showing off with her magic tricks, and I just thought--" "Whoa, whoa, whoa. Magic's got nothing to do with it. Trixie's just a loudmouth". Dash intterupeted "Most unpleasent". Rarity stated "All hat and no play". Said Applejack. Twilight looked at the three of them in confusion. "So, you don't mind my magic tricks"? Applejack smiled at Twilight "Your magic is a part of who you are, sugarcube, and we like who you are. We're proud to have such a powerful, talented unicorn as our friend. Didn't Reiner tell you that". Twilight smiled sheepishly after Applejack asked that. "I, uh kind of didn't want to listen to him, because I was so conviced that you would all hate me for using my magic". "Twilight, none of us would ever hate, and don't you ever think otherwise". Reiner stated. Spike had a huge smile on his face. He was glad that Twilight finally understood what he, and Reiner had been trying to tell her, but there was one thing he just had to know. "Wow, Twilight, how'd you know what to do with that ursa major"? "That's what I was doing when you came looking for me. I was so intrigued by Trixie's bragging that I was compelled to do a little reading up on them". Spike also became more interested after hearing that. "So a pony can defeat an ursa major all by themselves"? he asked. "That wasn't an ursa major. It was a baby, an ursa minor". Twilight answered. Everyone gasped in shock. "That was only a baby"! exclaimed Trixie in complte disbelif "And it wasn't rampaging. It was just cranky because someone woke up"! Twilight contiued gesturing to Snips and Snails, who both chuckled nervously. "Well, if that was an ursa minor, then what's an ursa major like"! asked Spike. Twilight thought for a bit, before chuckling. "You don't wanna know". Trixie, who had now finally calmed down from her intenial shock, walked up to Twilight with a smug look on her face. "Huh. You may have vanquished an ursa minor, but you will never have the amazing, show-stopping ability of the Great and Powerful Trixie"! With that, Trixie through down a smoke bomb and ran off. "Why that little"! Rainbow Dash stated with annoyance. She was just about to fly after Trixie, but was stopped by Reiner. "Just let her go Dash, maybe someday she'll learn her leasson. Now as for you two". Twilight said to Snips, and Snails who we're trying to sneak away. "Uh, we're sorry we woke up the ursa minor". Snips chuckled nervously. "Yeah, we just wanted to see some awesome magic". Snails replied. "And the way you vanquished that ursa minor was really cool". Snips stated, hoping Twilight would let them go, but she just gave them am unamused look. Seeing this, Snips and Snails both bowed down in shame. "We will accept any punishment you give us". Snails stated. "For starters, you can clean up this mess". Twilight told them, looking over at Trixie's destroyed wagon. She then turned to Spike. "And... What do you think, Spike? Should I give them number twenty five"? Spike chuckled devilsly. "Oh, twenty five! Yes! And I think I deserve it, too". "I think you're right"! said Twilight. Snips and Snails closed their eyes in fear while Spike exicitedly put his face out. Twilight then used her magic to put three mustaches on the boys. "Sweet". They said in uinson. Back at the library, Twilight was once again at her podium, but this time, she was writing her letter to the Princess. "Dear Princess Celestia, I have learned a very valuable lesson about friendship: I was so afraid of being thought of as a show-off that I was hiding a part of who I am. My friends helped me realize that it's okay to be proud of your talents, and there are times when it's appropriate to show them off... Especially when you're standing up for your friends". Once she was finished, Spike came back after showing his mustache to Rarity. "So, you finally admit, you're the most talent unicorn in town"? he asked. Twilight thought for a bit, before smiling. "Well, yeah, but it's nothing to brag about. Anyways how'd it go with Rarity". Spike sighed and looked down. "Eh, she didn't go for the mustache". Twilight Smiled at Spike. "Well, maybe you should trying being yourself. Remember what Apple Bloom" Said? "You don't need facial hair to impress a girl, you're pefect just the way you are" Spike thought for a minute, and smiled. "You know, Maybe you and Apple Bloom are right". Twilight and Spike both laughed afterwards. Preview Twilight recives word from Princess Celestia that a dragon is sleeping in a cave in a mountain. So she and her friends try to get it to move. However, Fluttershy's fear of Dragons may prevent them from complteting their task. Meanwhile, Reiner remebers back to his encounter with the Female Titan during the 57th scouting mission beyond the walls. Next Episode: Dragonshy. Author's Note Characters in order of apperance Spike Twilight Sparkle Apple Bloom Snips Snails Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Applejack Rarity Rainbow Dash Fluttershy Trixie Lulamoon Pinkie Pie Sweetie Drops Lyra Heartstrings Minuette Shoeshine Golden Harvest Cherry Berry Berry Bunch Samatha Cheerelie Amethyst Star
Episode 12: Dragonshy: Gala arc Part 5(XLTT Plays) "It's offically begun, the 57th recon mission! Scouts move out"! In the year 850, less then one month after Wall Rose was sealed, The Survey Corps went out on it 57th expedtion beyond the walls. They're mission, secure a route to Shiganshina District which is belived to house the secrets of the Titans. Reiner was riding on his horse. So far Commander Erwin's long distance scouting formation was working wonders, and they've been able to avoid most of the Titans outside the walls. Still, something was eating away at the back of Reiner's mind. "I wonder where Annie is? I hope she's able to come, we need her in order to capture Eren." Reiner was taken out of his thoughts when he saw a black smoke singal flare shoot up into the sky. "Shit, an abmormal". Reiner took off in the direction of the smoke singal arrving in only a few minutes. Once he got there, he saw another soilder sitting on the ground. "Armin"! Reiner called out to the young boy causing him to look up. "Reiner"! "Hey, you need a ride? What the hell are you doing this is full blown Titan territory you can't be without a horse. Climb on". Reiner told Armin, The two of them then began chasing after a Titan. One Reiner recgonized as Annie, but he pretendted to not know what was going on. "I came as fast as I could as soon as I saw the black smoke. Nice ass for an abnormal gotta admit". "It's not an abnormal! It's a person controling a Titan body". Armin explained. "Wait, what"? asked Reiner Armin however had to do something before he could explain. "I'll explain in a bit, but first we need to fire a smoke singal flare". Armin attempted to set up his flare, but he couldn't. "Come on, work you piece of Garbage it's an emergency". Fourtentley though, another soilder, Jean Kirstien fired his own smoke singal shell. "Hey don't worry, looks like Jean's got you covered". Reiner and Armin then noticed a bunch of yellow smoke shells in the air. "Oh man, that's not good. The right wing spotters have suffered to many casualties to move on". Reiner poinited out. "Yeah apparently most of them were wiped out by a Titan ambush, I don't know how it happend, sons of bitches we're lighting fast though, and who ever's left is trying to fend them off". Jean explained as he caught up to Armin and Reiner. Armin then realized something about the Female Titan. "Wait she came from that direction, so dose that mean. Could she have led the Titans here like a commander". Jean looked up, noticing the Female Titan. "Who her? Why the hell is she running from us by the way? Is he abnormal"? "No she isn't, I don't know how it's possible, but she's another human who's taken Titan form, someone who has the same power as Eren"! Armin Explained. "Please say you're not serious". Jean begged. "Really? What makes you so sure"? Reiner asked out of curiousty. Armin thought for a bit, but was able to come up with an answer. "Titans eat people". he began. "But they're not murderers. Sure they kill us in the process, but that's not their intention. This one's different. When the others went for her nape she struck them down, and swatted them like flies. She didn't eat them, she killed them and moved on, that's out of character even for an abnormal". Armin explained. He thought about the situation a little more, and came up with another theory. "The Titans that took out the right wing, I think she brought them here, just like the Colossal and Armored when they struck. I just know it. She's not just simply satasfying bloodlust she has it in for us. Or perhaps, I think she's after someone specifcaly. That just begs the question who, and what for"? Armin thought for a bit before realizing the most likley person. "Hold on could it be Eren"? "Eren? He's with Levi Squad they're spearheading the right wing, or at least, they we're". Reiner stated. This garnered him a confused from both Jean and Armin. "Wait Levi's team? I'm fairly certain you're wrong there big guy my copy of the plan has them on the left wing". Jean responed. "That's odd because my copy has them at the front of the right wing too which now that I think about it wouldn't be smart. Putting them in the vanguard like that wouldn't be safe". Armin theorized. "Well then, where the hell are they supposed to be". asked Reiner. "Come on where else, the safest place in the formation. Which I beilive, would be rear of the center rank". Armin concluded. "Rear of the center rank". Reiner thought to himself. He was then taken out of his thoughts by Jean, who spoke up. "Armin! Now's not the time to be chasing our own heads about this, we have to get word out on how dangerous this one is, smoke flares aren't going to cut it. At this rate she'll cut down the command squad! If we let that happen, everything goes to hell and we're all going to get killed"! "You have an idea"? asked Reiner. "More like a wing, and a prayer. Look we have to find a way to distract her somehow so the plutoon has a chance to retreat. If we're careful from this distance we should be able to manage it, and surivive". Jean responded. Armin looked at Jean intentley. "She's smarter then ones we normaly deal with you can take my word for it, from her ponit of view we're nothing but insects, one swing from that arm and we're all flatten". "Oh, is that right. Gee what a comforting fact to know". Jean stated sarcasticlay. "Alright, who are you and what have you done with Jean Kiristien? No offense, but the one I knew only seemed to care about himself". Reiner pointed out. (Attack on Titan Plays) "Your people skills need work. Believe me friends, I'm still all about number one I just don't want to end up as a pile of bones no one knows we're mine. Thing is, I get it now, I get what we're going to need to do in order to survive this fight, and last time I checked we weren't forced to take on this postion. Now are you with me or not"? Jean asked. Armin and Reiner stared at Jean for a bit before Armin put his hood over his head. "Put your hood up all the way! She won't try to kill you if she can't see your face. If she's looking for someone specifficaly she won't mow us down unless she's certain we're not them". Reiner smiled and copied what Armin did. "Great Idea, as far as she knows anyone of us could be Eren under these hoods, that's actually kind of an encoruging thought. Who knows, maybe she'll be near sighted to boot". Jean looked at Armin before resoping. "Not going to lie, I found it kind of creepy how you always clung to Eren like a security blanket, but I always knew you we're a genius". Armin looked back at Jean in both confusion, and a little hurt. "Oh, um thank you, but calling me creepy was kind of mean". The three of them galloped after the Female Titan, Armin and Jean moving on either side of her, while Reiner stayed directley behind her. When Armin manged to get next to her he noticed something. "She's moving alot more slowly then when she first came after us, tired maybe? Let's hope, if she speeds up we lose her, we have to do this now before she gets her energey back". On Jean's side he was remebering the plan. "Okay guys like we disscuesd. Draw her away from the others so they have a chance to escape, keep her focused on us for as long as possible, giving the rest of the plutoon plenny of time. Cutting her achilles should do the trick, nothing crazy though. If she is what Armin says she is, then we need her alive". Back on Armin's side he was thinking about the Titans weak point. "She knows where her soft spot is so she'll defend it. This is no run of the mill fight. Killing her out of the question. Well for normal people at least so let's just focus on keeping her distracted". Armin thought about Levi and Mikasa, knowing full well that they we're the only ones who could possibly stand a chance "When the time calms maybe they can take her down". Jean leaped off his horse and prepared to go after the Female Titan, only for her to turn around and blow some dust towards his direction. While not blinding Jean it was defentiley enough to distract him. The Female Titan then went after Armin, swatting his which was sent flying over Reiner's head, who ducked, and knocking Armin to the ground and giving him a minor cut on his head. Armin looked up to see the Female Titan over him, his eyes widing in fear, as Jean rushed towards him. "Armin"! Feeling Jean's achor hook in to her, the Female Titan moved fast, which Jean took note of. "The Moves on this one. she's like a damn athlete! We are so dead! We didn't think this through"! The Female Titan stomped on the ground removing Jean's hook, and tried to swat at him. Fortuentley Jean ducked out of they, and tried to go for the nape, only for the Female Titan to block it with her palm, just has Jean hooked in to it. "What? She's protecting her weak spot"? Reiner seeing this rushed towards his friends. "Jean"! "Damnit, there's nothing I can do, I'm a goner, she's going to yank my wire"! However, before the Female Titan could finish Jean off, she was halted when Armin shouted "Jean, Don't let that suicidal bastard die in Vain"! Hearing this caused the Female Titan stop mid swing, confusing Jean greatley "Huh? Why did she stop"? He flew down next to a tree as Armin contuied. "She did it, she killed him! I told him going to the right wing was too dangerous but he didn't listien, and now he's dead because of her". "What's going on, has Armin lost it"? Jean thought to himself. He then noticed Reiner leaping off his horse and going towards the Female Titan, "Reiner? what's he doing"? Jean the realized what was going on as Armin contiued. "She crushed my best friend! I saw it with my on eyes, his intrelies where splattered all over her foot"! "Of course! He has a clear opening while she's focused on Armin". Unfounrtently, The Female Titan noticed Reiner, and proceeded to grab him shocking both Jean, and Armin. However unknown to the two of them, while being crushed Reiner was secretly using his blades to carve a message into Annie's palm. Rear of the Center Rank The Female Titan used her thumb to squeeze Reiner's face, until POP! Jean and Armin both gasped in shock and sadness, beleving Reiner to be dead, as the former stammered in disbelief. "No, it can't be. Reiner". However, as if like magic, Reiner bursted out of the Female Titan's hands, before landing on the ground, grabing Armin, and running away. "That beautiful bastard. Mikasa's been doing so many crazy stuff latley that I let myself forget how much of a badass he is". "I'm sure we we're able to by the plutoon plenny of time, so I say it's time to get out of here"! Reiner stated as the Female Titan began running away, which he took noticed off. "Look! That Titan's scared and running home"! But Armin realized where The Female Titan was really going. "No, she's not retreating. She's heading towards the center rank. Where Eren is". (Equestria) Reiner awoke in his bed, and stretched with a yawn. "Why am I thinking about that day"? The sun rose near Fluttershy's cottage as she opened her door, ready to feed her animals. For the next fiffteen or so minutes, she made sure all her little furry friends we're fed and well taken care of before coming up to her pet bunny angel who was chewing on a carrot. "Not too fast now, Angel Bunny. You don't wanna get a tummy ache". she warned. Hearing this, Angel decieded he was done, but Fluttershy wasn't satisfyed and tried to get him to finish. "You really should eat more than that, don't you think"? Angel just ignored her, and began to hop away, only for Fluttershy to stop him. "It's not play time yet. I know you want to run, but... just three more bites"?. she asked. Angel Rufused. "Two more bites"? Fluttershy asked. Angel Refused again. "One more bite"? Fluttershy asked. Angel still Refused. "Alright". Fluttershy sighed, and began to walk away when she heard Angel coughing. "Oh, goodness. Are you okay"? she asked Angel kept coughing. "Are you coughing because there's a carrot stuck in your throat"? asked Fluttershy. Angel kept coughing. "Do you need water"? Fluttershy asked. Angel coughed again, and pointed up to the sky, causing Fluttershy to look up as well, and what she saw scared her to her very core, and she gasped "Because of that giant cloud of scary black smoke"? Angel gave her a dissapproving look. "I'll take that as a yes". Fluttershy ran into the park hoping to warn everyone of the smoke she saw. "Help. Help! Please? Help? There's- there's a horrible cloud of smoke. It's headed this way and-" She screamed in shock when Rainbow Dash landed next to her, bouncing a ball on her head "Don't be such a scaredy-pony. It's just me, future Equestria ball-bouncing record holder. Three forty six, three forty seven"... Pinkie Pie came over with a huge smile on her face "This calls for a celebration"! she exclaimed. Fluttershy however knew that this was no time to be silly, and she tried to tell Pinkie Pie that "Oh, no, Pinkie Pie, this is no time for celebration. This is a time for panic, for-" But Pinkie intteruppted Fluttershy before the pegagus could finish. "Ooo! I'm going to need balloons! One for every pony in Ponyville"! Fluttershy meanwhile kept trying to tell her two could friends about the situation. "There's- there's smoke. And- and where there's smoke, there's fire. And-" But niether of them we're listening to her as they we're both now focusing on Rainbow Dash bouncing the ball. "Let's see, that's one, two, three, four"... Pinkie Counted "Three hundred fifty four"... Dash Counted "Five, six".. Pinkie Counted. "Three hundred fifty five", Rainbow Dash counted, but she soon lost count due to Pinkie's counting. "Seven". Pinkie Counted. Now Rainbow Dash had compltely lost track, and was now looking at Pinkie in frustration. "Damnit Pinkie Pie Now I have to start over". Fluttershy again tried to tell them about the smoke. "We're all going to have to start over, in a new village. 'Cause ours is gonna be-" But Rainbow Dash was already walking away, with Pinkie Pie following after. "Rainbow Dash wait up"! "Damnit"! Fluttershy thought as she ran after them. Reaching the middle of the park, Fluttershy tried to get somepony, anypony's attetion. "Oh, please, this is an emergency. I-I need everypony to-" Fluttershy was again intterupeted, this time by Twilight Sparkle. "Listen up! Smoke is spreading over all of Equestria". All of the ponies now noticed the smoke and gasped in shock, while Fluttershy looked down. "That's what I was trying to say". Twilight then contiued. "But don't worry, I've just received a letter from Princess Celestia informing me that it is not coming from a fire". Fluttershy sighed in relief, now knowing that the forest wasn't in danger of burning down, but she soon felt a cold swet run down her when she heard what Twilight said next. "It's coming from a dragon". "A... d-dragon"? Currently Publicly Available Information The Long-Distance Scouting Formation. A theory devised by Scout Regiment Commander Erwin Smith. Since implementing this formation, the Scout Regiment's survival rate outside the Walls has drastically increased. To describe it in simple terms, this formation is like a human-powered radar. By allowing Erwin, who sits in the center of the formation, to quickly know about Titan spottings, it is possible for the group to change direction before encountering that Titan. (Megata Kyojin Kuchiku Plays) Inside of the Golden oak Library, a group of Eight Ponies were getting ready to go and confront the dragon. They consited of Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Reiner Braun, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Bertholdt Hoover, and Fluttershy. "What in the name of all things cinnamon swirled is a full-grown dragon doing here in Equestria"? asked Applejack. "Sleeping". Twilight answered. "Huh"? The others asked. "According to Princess Celestia, he's taking a nap. His snoring is what's causing all this smoke". Twilight contiued. "He should really see a doctor. That doesn't sound healthy at all". Pinkie suggested. "Well at least he's not snoring fire, that would be devastating, but what are we suppose to do about it"? asked Rarity. "I'll tell you what we're meant to do. Give him the boot. Take that. And that"! Dash stated. Twilight however shook her head. "No Dash, we need to convince him to move somewhere else to take his nap. Princess Celestia has given us this mission, and we must not fail. If we do, Equestria will be covered in smoke for the next one hundred years". Hearing this caused the others the gasp, they knew now that they needed to get rid of this dragon as soon as possible. "Woah, talk about getting your beauty rest". Rarity pointed out. "All right everypony, I need you to gather supplies quickly. We've got a long journey ahead of us. Let's meet back here in less than an hour". Twilight said. Seven of the ponies nodded they're heads while Fluttershy meekley stepped back, something both Reiner and Bertholdt took noticed of. The others however didn't as Rainbow Dash flew in between Rarity, and Pinkie Pie with a huge grin on her face. "Okay guys, you heard her. The fate of Equestria is in our hooves. Do we have what it takes"? Rarity, Pinkie, and Applejack all nodded. "Umm actually". Fluttershy began. "Let's Go". Said Applejack, "Umm, let's"...... not Fluttershy said meekley, but again, she was fallen on deaf hears as the others left to get ready for the mission. At her home in cloudsdale, Rainbow Dash dabbed some warrior paint on her cheaks. At Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack's family was putting sides into her saddlebag, Apple Bloom walked up to her big sister and gave her a hug. "Be careful". she said. "Don't worry Apple Bloom, I'll be fine". Applejack reassured her. Pinkie Pie came out of sugarcube corner with her saddle bag on. Rarity put on an army hat she really liked. Reiner and Bertholdt came out of their house with they're supplies And Fluttershy came out of her cottage in a helemet, and a bunch of pillows around her body, flinching when her door slammed behind her. Back in town, Twilight was informing her friends of the plan she came up with. "All right guys listen up. I'm mapping out the fastest route, but we've all got to keep a good pace if we expect to make it up the mountain by nightfall". Hearing this caused Fluttershy stammer in nervousness. "M-m-mountain"? "The Dragon's in a cave at the very stop". Twilight responed. "Seems pretty high up". AJ Pointed out. "Not to mention very cold". Stated Bertholdt. Rainbow Dash flew over with a look of huge exicetment on her face. "You bet it is. The higher you go, the chillier it gets". "Which is why I brought my scarf". Rarity pointed out. "Oh, yeah, that should keep you warm". Dash pointed out. Twilight, and Reiner we're looking at the map, while Fluttershy was trying to get their attention. "Um, excuse me, Twilight, Reiner? I know you two are busy busy, but"... They however couldn't hear her. "Uh-huh. Well, we could go this way". Twilight stated to Reiner. Fluttershy tried again. "But if I could just have a second"... Again she was ignored. "Uh-huh. No, we want to avoid that". Reiner pointed out. "So, um, I was thinking that, um, maybe I should just stay here in Ponyville". Fluttershy said. "Uh-huh". Twilight nodded. This caused Fluttershy to beam in delight. Oh! Good. I'll stay here and- That finally got Twilight and Reiner's attention, who both looked at Fluttershy in alarm. "What! no you have to come"! Twilight exlcaimed. "Yeah Fluttershy, your way with wild animals could really come in handy". Reiner told her. "I don't think I-" Fluttershy began, only for Twilight to intterupt her. "Oh, and don't worry about your little friends in the meadow. Spike's got it covered while you're gone". Spike nodded in response. "You can count on me Fluttershy"! Fluttershy however stilled tried to convince Twilight and Reiner to let her stay behind. "I don't really think he's up to the task. Maybe... but... but"... Rainbow Dash also thought Fluttershy should stay behind, and she voiced this opinon to Twilight, and Reiner. "Are you sure you want Fluttershy to come along? I mean, that pony's afraid of her own shadow. She's just going to slow us down". Twilight just shurgged off Dash's concens. "Oh, she's just a little nervous. Once we get going, I'm sure she'll be fine. Okay, which way do you think we should go Reiner"? Reiner took the map from Twilight. Staring intentley at it as he tried to pinpoint the best direction to take. Finally, he was able to figure out the best route to take. "Alright, I think I know the direction we should go, come on everyone". Fluttershy still tried to convice her friends to not let her come. "But...... But....... no"! However her friends didn't pay her any mind, forcing her to follow after the others. And so, our fearless heroes, and Twilight Sparkle, set off, on their mission the get rid of the Dragon. Arriving out the foot of the mountain the group reealed back in shock when the heard a loud sound, causing Fluttershy to hide behind Applejack. "Woah, what was that"? asked Rainbow Dash. "The sound of a Dragon snoring". Twilight Replied. Fluttershy peaked out from behind Applejack, and stared up at the mountain. "It- it's so... high"! she stammered. "Well it is a mountain Rainbow Dash pointed out. I'm gonna fly up and check it out". she stated only to be pulled back down by Applejack. "Hold on, now. I think we should all go up together. Safety in numbers and all". Rainbow Dash sighed in annoyance. "Oh alright". The Mane Eight began walking up the side of the cliff, all of them wondering what to expect. Rarity in particulary was intrested in a so called tresure she believed the dragon would have. "I hear the only thing that sparkles more than a dragon's scales are the jewels they use to build their nests. Ooo, if I play my cards right, I might be able to convince him to part with a few"! Pinkie Pie found this amuzing and began to joke with Rarity by mocking the dragon. "Welcome to my cave, Rarity. Care for a diamond"? Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie all started laughing, only to be stopped by Reiner. "Girls! This isn't the time to be joking around"! He stated before calling out to Fluttershy. "Fluttershy, you're the expert on wild creatures. What do you think the Dragon will be like"? When Reiner didn't get an answer, he looked around in confusion. "Fluttershy"? The ponies looked down, and saw Fluttershy peak her head out from behind a bush at the bottom of the cliff. "Hey! What are you waiting for? An invitation"? asked Rainbow Dash, in clear annoyance. "Ooo! I think I have one in my bag"! Exlclaimed Pinkie Pie. "That was a rhetorical question". Dash replied "I-it's so... so... steep". Fluttershy stammered. "Well it is a cliff, why not just fly up here"! Rainbow Dash stated "Yeah! Pinkie cried trying to encourge Fluttershy. Flap thoes wings". "Oh.... Ok"... Fluttershy began to fly up, but the Dragon snored again, causing her to shut her wings, and fall back to ground, making Twilight more frustrated "Uh, we don't have time for this". She then noticed Reiner taking the map from her. "What are you doing"? she asked. "I'm going to need this if I'm going to take her around the mountain another way". Reiner replied. "Another way! That's gonna take them forever". Rainbow Dash complained. "I'll go with you"! Applejack stated. "Thanks AJ". Reiner replied. The two of them made it down to where Fluttershy was, just as the Dragon snored again causing the pegagus to faint. Applejack helepd hoist Fluttershy on to Reiner's back, before calling up to Twilight. "Don't worry, Twi. We'll be there lickety-split". As Applejack and Reiner began walking around the mountain with Fluttershy, the pegagus couldn't do anything to resisit and try to run away. "Why? Why are they trying to take me with them? Don't they know I'll just be a burden to them"? Fluttershy was taken out of her thoughts when she heard Applejack's voice. "I know you're nervous Fluttershy, but Remember we're this together. Just remember, to trust us". Hearing those words cause Fluttershy to remember back to a time in her past. (Everfree Forest. Year 845) (VC-PF20130218 Plays) A ten year old Fluttershy ran through the trees as fast as her little hooves could go, despreately trying to find the way out of this horrible place. She had gone into the forest to get a closer look at a cute animal she spotted, only for her to get lost. Getting more and more exhausted, Fluttershy finally cololapsed next to a tree, and began to sob. She kept on crying until she heard russleing in the bushes, think it to be a monster, or worse, Fluttershy began to tremble in fear, but stopped when two Earth Ponies and a Unicorn filly walked through the bushes. One of them immeditly ran up to Fluttershy and began talking super fast. "HiImPinkiePiewhat'syournamebecauseI'veneverseenyoubeforeand". The Pink earth pony was pulled back by the orange one. "Slow down their Pinkie Pie, She seemes to be a little nervous". The orange filly walked up to Fluttershy, and began to slowly walk up to her. "Hey there, I'm Applejack, this here's Pinkie Pie, and That's Rarity. What's your name"? "I'm Fluttershy" "What was that"? asked Applejack "Flutteshy" "You're gonna need to speak up". "FLUTTERSHY"! The pegagus filly gapsed in shock and quickly coverd her mouth in both embarrasment, and fear. Applejack just smiled. "Nice to meet ya Fluttershy". "So, what are you doing out here in the forest darling"? asked Rarity. "Well, I was following this really cute animal I saw, and I ended up getting lost". Fluttershy said, before once again beiginning to cry. "Hey now, don't start the waterworks, It's okay, just come with us. We know the way". Applejack stated. "You...... You do"? Fluttershy asked. "Eeyup! Trust us". Applejack replied. (Back in the Present) "That's right. It's because they trust me, and I need to trust them". Fluttershy thought to herself. Fluttershy didn't know how long it had been, but they finally met up with the others. "We made it". Reiner called out as Rainbow Dash flew next to Twilight. "Told you it was going to take them forever". The group soon made it to a small gap in the cliff. Knowing they had to complte the mission they all began to jump across the gap. All of the, expcept Fluttershy. "Your turn Fluttershy". Twilight called out to her. Fluttershy looked across the ledge, only to timidly move back. "But... it's so... wide". "Come on Fluttershy, we should have gotten much further by now". Twilight pointed out. "You can always leap across". Applejack stated. Fluttershy considered, only to stop herself when she heard the Dragon snore again. "I'm not sure". Seeing that Fluttershy was nervous, Pinkie Pie decieded to help encourage her the best way she new how "There's nothing to be afraid of. It's just a hop, skip and a jump. See"? She then started to sing. [b"It's not very far Just move your little rump You can make it if you try with a hop, skip and jump"] "We don't have time for this". Twilight tried to point out, only to be ignored by Pinkie Pie as she contiued her song. "A hop, skip and jump, Just move your little rump, A hop, skip and jump, A hop, skip and jump, A hop, skip and jump, A hop skip and jump, A hop skip and jump"! Fluttershy attempted to use Pinkie's words as a form of encourgement. "O-okay. Here I go. A hop". "That's it. Applejack" supported. "You've got it". Said Twilight. "Almost There". Said Rarity. "Skip". Said Fluttershy. "Just don't look down". Twilight stated. Unfourtently, that's exactaly what Fluttershy did. She whimpered in fright, and blindly leaped across, landing on Rainbow Dash's back who groaned in frustration. "Guess I didn't jump". Fluttershy chuckled. Soon the ponies made it to another part of the cliff. As they we're walking Reiner was warning them about the dangers of the area they we're in. "Stay quiet everyone. According to the map, this place is prone to avalances. The smallest peep could cause a huge rock slide". Hearing this only seemed to increase Fluttershy's nerves. "An... an ava... ava..." Twilight quickly shushed her, but soon a small leaf landed on Fluttershy's back causing her to panic. "AVALA"-! Reiner quickly covered Fluttershy's in despration, but his efforts we're unsucessful, as the group heard a loud rumbling (Attack on Titan Plays) Everyone looked up to see a bunch of rocks falling towards them "Avalanche"! the girls screamed, as they all ran trying their best to avoid the falling rocks, some of them almost hit Twilight. "Oh no! Help! Ooh"! Fourtentley, Reiner pushed her out of the way, and soon enought the whole thing was over. "Phew. Everyone alright". asked Applejack. "Yeah, I am. Thanks to Reiner". Twilight said. Don't mention it. Reiner replied. Pinkie Pie burst up with a huge smile on her face. "Whoo-hoo! Let's do it again"! Rarity on the other hoof was not in the mood to go through something like that ever again, and insted went to like through her bag. "This is why a girl always packs extra supplies". She stated as she pulled out a scarf. "Oh please tell me I brought the tiara that goes with this". Rainbow Dash however couldn't be bothered by either Rarity, or Pinkie Pie's wants, or problems, as there we're bigger issues they had to deal with. "Uh, think we got bigger problems than making sure our hair bows match our horseshoes". Looking to see what Rainbow Dash was reffering to, the group's hearts sank when they saw that the rockslide had blocked the path. Fluttershy, knowing she was the reason for the avalance looked down in shame. "Sorry". she said sheepishly. "Aw, no big whoop, sugarcube". Applejack said trying to comfort Fluttershy. Twilight, also tried to reassure Fluttershy. "Yeah, we just have to......." But Twilight soon realised their situation, and sighed in despair. "Climb over". So that's what, they did, the Mane Eight climb over the mountain. However, Fluttershy once again got scared, and slid down the moutain, crashing into Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie. "My apolgies". Rarity stated, as Rainbow Dash flew over to them with an angry look on her face. "Not your fault". she said Glaring at Fluttershy. Bertholdt, who had been taking noticed of how Dash had been treating Fluttershy glared at the cyan pegagus, who took noticed. "What"!? she snapped at the stalion. "Nothing". Bertholdt said putting his head down. "Good". Rainbow Dash stated turning around. "If I we're you, I'd keep my mouth shut Bertholdt Hoover". Rainbow Dash coldy stated before flying over to Twilight, and Reiner. "Still think it was a good idea to bring Fluttershy along"? "We're about to find out, we're here". Twilight stated. Once the group made it to the cave entrance, Twilight, and Reiner began to discuss the plan with the others. "Rainbow Dash, you'll use your wings to clear the smoke". Said Reiner. "Right". Dash Replied. "Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Bertholdt you'll create a diversion to distract the dragon if things get a little hairy in there". Twilight Stated The three of them nodded. "Applejack, you're ready with the apples in case he decides to attack. But it shouldn't come to that, because Fluttershy will do what she needs to do to wake him up, and between the two of us, we should be able to get him to understand why he needs to go. Is everypony ready"? Asked Reiner. The group save for Fluttershy nodded their heads. Twilight smiled, and turned to Fluttershy. "Okay then, we're goin' in. Fluttershy, what's the best way for waking up a sleeping dragon". But Fluttershy didn't answer. "Fluttershy"? Twilight looked around and saw Fluttershy with her head burried in the sand. Groaning in frustration, Twilight walked over to Fluttershy and attempted to push her into the gave. "Oh, come on! There's no time for this. Every second longer the dragon sleeps, the more smoke he realseses". The rest of their friends all came and tried to get Fluttershy to move. "I can't go in the cave". Fluttershy stated. "What"? Reiner asked. "Oh wonderful. She's afraid of caves now". Rainbow Dash stated. "No! I'm not. I'm scared of Dragons"! Fluttershy stated. As soon as Fluttershy said that, more smoke came out of the cave, causing her to hide behind Applejack. Once the smoke cleared, Reiner went up to the peagus. "But Fluttershy. You have a wonderful talent dealing with all kinds of animals". "Yes, because they aren't dragons". Rainbow Dash couldn't believe what she was hearing, especsially after seeing what Fluttershy did during their battle with Nightmare Moon. "Oh come on! We've seen you walk right up to a horrible manticore like it was nothing". "Yes. Fluttershy replied. Because he wasn't, a dragon". Pinkie Pie then decieded to remind Fluttershy of Spike. "Spike is a dragon. You're not scared of him". "Yes". Fluttershy replied. "Because he's not a huge, gigantic, terrifying, enormous, teeth-gnashing, sharp-scale having, horn-wearing, smoke-snoring, could eat a pony in one bite, totally all grown-up dragon"! "But why didn't you tell us you we're afraid of Dragons"?! asked Twilight. "I was afraid too. Fluttershy stated", but then Bertholdt spoke up. "No! It was because we didn't listen to you, all of us we're so worried about how to deal with the Dragon that none of us took into account your own feelings on the matter". He turned, and stared directley at Rainbow Dash who stared back and him. "You've been the worst! You've done nothing but complain about Fluttershy this entire trip like some hipocrit"! Rainbow Dash gasped in shock at what she was told. "How Dare You"! She snapped. "You've hardly said a word this entire trip, and when finally do decied to speak it's to defend her"!? Dash asked while harshy pointing at Fluttershy who looked down in shame. "See! There you go, treating your friend like she's nothing! It's like you don't even care about Fluttershy"! Bertholdt shouted back. "Of course I care about her! I've known her longer then you after all, but we have a mission to take care of, and that is to get rid of this Dragon"! The two of them kept going back and force, until Twilight finally had enough. "Both of you stop"! Rainbow Dash, and Bertholdt both looked at Twilight. "We don't have time for this, we need to deal with this problem". Twilight stated before turning to Applejack. Applejack smiled knowing what to do, she walked up to Fluttershy, who was still tremebling in fear. "All of us are afraid of that Dragon". Applejack told Fluttershy, only for Dash to intterup. "I'm not"! Applejack side in frustration, but contiuted. "Almost all of us are afraid of that dragon, but we've got a job to do, and I know you have what it takes to help get rid of that Dragon, if you just trust us". Fluttershy looked at her friends, who we're all giving her supportive looks, except for Rainbow Dash who just rolled her eyes, and groaned impaceintley. "I can't" Fluttershy stated, and she walked away. "Fluttershy"! Wait, Bertholdt shouted following after her. Reiner sighed, and looked at Twilight. "I'm going after them". Twilight looked at Reiner and nodded. "Ok. Well try to figure out what to do here". Reiner followed after Fluttershy and Bertholdt, and Twilight shot a glare at Rainbow Dash who looked back at her in confusion. "What"? asked Dash. "What Bertholdt said was true! Twilight began. You have been extremley cruel to Fluttershy, constantly complaining about her, and blamming her for all the things that happened"! Twilight said as Rainbow Dash looked down in shame, knowing that Twilight, and Bertholdt we're right. "I'll go aplogize to her". Rainbow Dash stated. "It'll have to wait, at least until we deal with the problem at hand". Twilight stated. "Well, what are we going to do", asked Rarity. Twilight looked at her friends, who all had confused looks on their faces. Twilight then sighed. "I'm going in, He probaly doesn't even know what he's doing. Right"?. Twilight walked into the cave, silentley trying to get the dragon's attention in a way as to not anger it. "Mr Dragon, Hello, Mr. Dragon". Twilight finally made it up to the dragon, who groggly opened his eyes to look at her. "Oh good, you're awake, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Twilight". Before Twilight could finish, the dragon blew a jet of stinky breath into her face. Despite the smell, Twilight contiued. "Sparkle, and my friends and I are residents here in Equestria. Ponyville, to be exact. We've come here to ask that you find another spot to take your nap. It's just that you seem to be doing an awful lot of snoring, and every time you do you send out a terrible cloud of smoke. Equestria simply can't survive a hundred years in a dark haze. You understand, don't you"? The dragon just stared at Twilight. "So you'll leave right"? Twilight asked. The dragon did not leave, he just closed his eyes, and went back to sleep, but not before blowing out another breath of smoke, causing Twilight and the other girls to cough. "So much for persuasion". Dash commeted. "Now what"? asked AJ. Rarity gave her friends a smile, and stepped up. "Obviously, this situation just calls for a little "pony charm". Allow me, girls". With that, Rarity walked into the cave, and up to the dragon waking him up. "I'm so sorry to interrupt. But I couldn't possibly head back home without mentioning what handsome scales you have". Hearing this caused the dragon to smile, he let Rarity contiune. "And thoes scales being hidden away for a hundred years in some dirty cave". The dragon thought for a bit, this pony had a point after all, he was a grand dragon, and the world should see his glory. "Personally, I believe you should skip the snoozing and be out showing them off". Unfourtently it was what Rarity said next the caused her plan to backfire. "Of course I would be more then happy to keep an eye on your jewels while you're gone". Hearing this, angerd the dragon greatly, and he snatched his treasure away from Rarity who ran out of the cave. "Damnit I was this close to getting one of those diamonds". She whined. "You mean getting rid of the dragon"? Twilight asked. "Oh um yes". Rarity replied nervously. The girls sat around pondering their next move, when they heard a horn blow. They turned around to see Pinkie in some weird costume "What in sam hell are you wearing Pinkie Pie"? asked Applejack. "You look ridiculous". Rarity stated. Pinkie just smiled. "Exactly! Sharing a laugh is a sure-fire way to get someone on your side"! Pinkie walked into the cave. "Hi". she said. The girls waited only to hear a loud crash and see Pinkie Pie walking out of the cave. "Apparently he doesn't like laughing, heh. Or sharing". Rainbow Dash had finally had enough and decieded to handle the situation the way she wanted to from the very start. " All right, that's it. We tried persuasion, charm, whatever it is Pinkie Pie does, it's time to stop wasting time! I'm going in"! Rainbow Dash flew into the cave, as Twilight tried to stop her. "Raindow, wait"! But Dash didn't listen, and insted flew up to the dragon kicking him into the nose. "Get! Out"! she shouted. This however only caused the dragon the sneeze, and then roar and Rainbow Dash. "Sorry". she said sheepishly. The Dragon knocked Dash out of the cave. The girls looked up to see the Dragon stepping out of the cave, glaring at them angrily. Meanwhile behind a boulder, Bertholdt and Reiner had found Fluttershy, and we're talking to her. "Fluttershy, you know Rainbow Dash didn't mean what she said". Reiner told her. "Yeah, you have some many talents. I know you're scared but we believe in you, and I know you can face your fears if you just try". Bertholdt stated. Fluttershy looked down. "I'm sorry you guys, but I just can't do it. I". Fluttershy was intteruptted when she, Reiner, and Berthold heard a loud crash. They looked up to see the dragon staring menceingly at their friends, who we're trembeling in fear. Seeing this, all of a sudden caused Fluttershy to get very angry. "How dare you. How Dare You"! Fluttershy flew write up to the Dragon as Bertholdt tried to stop her. "Fluttershy stop"! But Fluttershy ignored him, and got right into the dragon's face. "Listen here, mister. Just because you're big doesn't mean you get to be a bully! You may have huge teeth, and sharp scales, and snore smoke, and breathe fire. But you do not—I repeat—you do not hurt my friends! Understand"? The dragon backed off after Fluttershy's scolding, and tried to defend his actions. "But that rainbow one kicked me". "And I am very sorry about that". Fluttershy told the dragon. "But you're bigger than she is, and you should know better. You should also know better than to take a nap where your snoring can become a health hazard to other creatures". She told him. "But I". the dragon began only for Fluttershy to intterupt him. "Don't you 'but I' me, mister. Now what do you have to say for yourself"? When the dragon didn't answer, Fluttershy repated her question. "I said. What do you have to say for yourself". The dragon could do nothing but cry, as Fluttershy comforted him. "There, there. No need to cry. You're not a bad dragon, you just made a bad decision. Now go pack your things. You just need to find a new place to sleep. That's all". The dragon agreed and left Equestria to take his nap somewhere else while the others cheered for Fluttershy, "You did it! I knew you could". Said Bertholdt. Back in ponyville the other pegasi we're clearing up the smoke, while Spike was inside the golden oak libary trying to deal with Fluttershy's animals. "I said come back here! Ooh! How does Fluttershy put up with you furry little things"? Twilight then walked into the room, and told Spike to write a note to the princess. "Spike, take a letter". "With pleasure". Spike sighed in relief. "Dear Princess Celestia, I am happy to report that the dragon has departed our fair country, and that it was my good friend, Fluttershy, who convinced him to go. This adventure has taught me to never lose faith in your friends. They can be an amazing source of strength, and can help you overcome even your greatest fears. Always your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle". Once Spike sent the letter, Applejack called out to Twilight. "Twilight! You gotta come see this! Dash is just five away from a new pony record"! Twilight came out to see Rainbow Dash bouncing the ball off of her head, and counting. "Three hundred forty-seven, three hundred forty-eight..." However she was intterupted by a roar. "Dragon"! She screamed in fright, while the others to laugh. "Why are you guys laughing, that horrible dragon is back". she asked, only to see that it was Pinkie who roared. "Pinkie Pie, you scared me"! Dash said, before quickly catching herself. "I mean, uh, you... broke my concentration". "It's alright Rainbow Dash, Not everyone can be brave like me". Fluttershy stated. Only for a leaf to land on her flank again, causing her to faint, and everyone to laugh. Preview During a masssive Storm, Twilight decieds to invite Applejack and Rarity over for a slumber party. Unfourtently Applejack, and Rarity's rivarly may ruin all the fun slumber parites are suppose to have. Next Episode. Look Before you Sleep. Author's Note Characters in order of appearance. Erwin Smith (Flashback) Hange Zoe (Flashback) Miche Zachurius (Flashback) Levi Ackerman (Flashback) Petra Ral (Flashback) Eld Jinn (Flashback) Oruo Bozad (Flashback) Gunther Schultz (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Reiner Braun Armin Arlert (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt/Female Titan (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Luke Sis (Flashback within a Flashback) Dieter Ness (Flashback within a Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback within a Flashback) Fluttershy Angel Bunny Minnuette Golden Harvest Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Lily Valley Rose Daisy Amethsty Star Rainbow Dash Pinkie Pie Twilight Sparkle Applejack Rarity Bertholdt Hoover Granny Smith Big Macintosh Apple Bloom Spike Razer
Episode 13: Look Before You Sleep: Gala arc Part 6The sun shown brightly over ponyville, at least it did for a few mintues, until one of the pegasai blocked it with a cloud as the citizens of Ponyville we're getting ready for a massive storm the pegasi head planned for that day, and serveral ponies we're helping out. Applejack was using her lassso to pull branches off of trees that we're in danger of snaping, Rarity was using her magic to move another branch, Apple Bloom, Big Macintosh, and Reiner we're moving leaves out of the way, and Bertholdt was of course helping move the clouds into position. Rarity looked up at her work, and smiled. "Hmm. Hah! Perfect". Applejack spit the branch out of her mouth and scowled at Rarity. "Just take the broken limbs down, Rarity. Don't y'all care about nothin' other than prettifyin"? Rarity, simply scoffed at Applejack, and contiued her work. "Somepony has to. You were making an absolute mess of the town square, Applejack". "Yeah, well, the storm's gonna make an even bigger mess if we don't prune all these loose branches so they don't tumble down on anypony". Applejack responed. "Applejack's right Rarity, we need to make sure everything and everyone is safe from the storm". Apple Bloom stated. Rarity sighed, and looked up at the sky. "I simply cannot imagine why the Pegasus ponies would schedule a dreadful downpour this evening and ruin what could have been a glorious sunny day". "It has to happen, the pegasai acciedently skipped a scheduled sprinkle last week, so we need to have a massive storm in order to make up for it". Reiner told her, as Bertholdt flew down next to them. "How's everything going on down here". He asked. "We're just about finshed". Apple Bloom said. "Right Big Mac"? "Eeyup". The Stailion responed. A gust of wind then gust past the six ponies, causing Applejack to look up. "That's storm's gonna be here soon. Apple Bloom, Big Mac, why don't you two head on home, before it starts to get really bad". "Are you sure Applejack"? asked Apple Bloom. "I'm sure, you've done a great job with helping, don't worry, we can finish the rest up". Applejack told her little sister. Apple Bloom sighed, but decieded to listen to Applejack. "Alright." she sighed, as Big Mac hoisted Apple Bloom and began walking back to Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack then turned to the other two stalions. "Reiner, Bertholdt how about you head back too, Rarity, and I got this". "Are you sure? Bertholdt and I could still help you out". Reiner stated. Don't you worry none. we got this. Applejack stated. "Alright, but don't stay out for too long you two, we don't need you catching colds, or worse. Reiner told them". "Don't worry, we'll be fine". Applejack stated. Unfourtently for her and Rarity, as soon as Reiner and Bertholdt left, it started pouring. "Oh no! My wonderfully styled mane shall be ruined"! Rarity complained. "Ya shoulda hurried up and finished the job already". Applejack told her, but Rarity wasn't listiening, and began to panic, and run around. "Oh! Ah! Oh! Ph! It's coming down too fast! Ah! Oh! Oh! Ah! Help me"! Applejack sighed, and looked around, before spotting a small bench that was big enough for Rarity to fit under. "Uh, there. Hunker down to yer heart's content whilst I finish things". Rarity saw the bench, and shook her head. "No way"! "What now"? asked an annoyed Applejack. "I will not, get my hooves dirty". Rarity stated causing Applejack to groan. "There is just no pleasin' ya, is there? Everything's got to be just so". Rarity scoffed at Applejack's statment. "Well, and how does muddying my hooves serve any useful purpose"? "Y'all wouldn't know useful if it came up and bit'cha". Applejack stated. "That makes no sense". Said Rarity. "Does so". argued Applejack. "Does not". argued Rarity "Does so". argued Applejack. "Does not". argued Rarity "Does so". argued Applejack. "Does not". argued Rarity "Does so". argued Applejack. "Does not". argued Rarity "Does so infinity. Hah". Applejack shot. "Does not infinity plus one". Rarity shout back, before sighing. "What say we go our separate ways before one of us says something she will regret"? "I reckon y'all are gonna say something you'll regret first". Applejack ponited out. "On the contrary, I believe it shall most certainly be you who says something you will regret first". Rarity responed. "I'm not saying anything". Stated Applejack. "Nor I am". Rarity shot back. The two of them stood in place for a second before Applejack spoke up. "Y'all just be on yer way, then". "After you". Stated Rarity. But before either of them could get far, a loud clap of thunder startled both of them into getting back under the bench. "Perhaps we should stick together for now and find some shelter". Rarity stated. "Uh-huh, perhaps we should. And fast". Applejack agreed. As the rain kept pouring around them, Applejack and Rarity remaind huddled together with Applejack trying to make light of the situation. "Heh. Nice and dry under here, sorta". Rarity however was none too pleased with their predicament. "Oh! Unacceptable". The two of them stayed under the bench for a few more minutes when they heard the voice of Twilight Sparkle calling out to them. "Applejack! Rarity! Applejack! Rarity"! Twilight? They said back. "Quickly, come inside". Twilight called out again. The ponies got out from under the bench and sprinted towards the Golden Oak Library, but before Applejack enterted, she stopped. "Whoa, nelly. Is inside a tree really the best place to be in a lightning storm"? She asked. "It is if you have a magical lightning rod protecting your home like I do. Come on in"! Twilight answerd. Rairty shook the water out of her mane, and smiled at Twilight. "Hah! We are most grateful for your invitation". "Yeah, thank ya kindly for yer hospitality". Applejack nodded in agreement, before getting a look of worry on her face. "Applejack, what's wrong"? asked Twilight. "I just hope, That Big Mac, and Apple Bloom, made it back home safetly. Reiner and Bertholdt too". Applejack stated. Back at Sweet Apple Acres Granny Smith was pacing around back and force looking worridly out the window, when the door opended, and Big Mac, and Apple Bloom stepped inside. "Phew! It's really coming down". Apple Bloom pointed out. "Eeyup". Big Mac responeded. Granny Smith walked over to them with a smile on her face, before noticing that they we're alone. "Where's yer sister". She asked. Apple Bloom looked up at her grandmother. "Applejack said she was going to finsish up in town, and catch up to us, but then it just started pouring, and now she's still out there". "Don't you worry now AB. Big Mac reassured his sister, I'm sure Applejack, and Rarity both found shelter". Granny Smith nodded. "That's right, Applejack is resorceful, and knows how to get out of tight situations". "Okay". Apple Bloom stated, but she was still unsure if her sister would be alright. On the other side of town, Reiner, and Bertholdt stepped into their house and shut the door. "Man, It's really coming down". Reiner stated. Bertholdt nodded in agreement. "I hope, Applejack, and Rarity manged to find shelter". Reiner looked at his friend. "Don't worry, I'm sure they're fine". He stated as Bertholdt looked out the window. Back at Twilight's house, Rarity looked at Applejack, and saw that she was a little dirty. "Uh, do be a polite house guest and go wash up please, won't you"? Applejack grumbled in annoyance at Rarity's complaint but did what she was asked, not without complaing to herself of course. "If I gotta spend one more second with that fussbudget Rarity today, I can't be held responsible for what I'm gonna do". Twilight on the other hoof was looking out at the storm going on outside. "Some storm, huh? The Pegasus ponies sure have outdone themselves this time. I hope you and Applejack don't have any trouble getting home". she said to Rarity. Rarity nodded in agreement. "It may indeed be a problem". "Well, you're welcome to stay if need be. Spike is away in Canterlot on royal business. I'm home all alone tonight". Twilight offered. Then an idea flew into her head, and a huge smile appeared on her face. "You and Applejack should totally sleep over! We'll have a slumber party! I've always wanted one of those". A look of horror suddendly appeared on Rarity's face. The thought of spending all night with Applejack sounded dreadful. So she quickly tried to come up with an excuse. "Oh! Uh, goodness. Uh, I do believe I have another engagement scheduled for this evening that completely slipped my mind until just now. Ah, silly me, I can't possibly stay here all night -- with Applejack". Rarity was about to leave, when she noticed Twilight of course reading a book. "Slumber 101: All You've Ever Wanted to Know About Slumber Parties But Were Afraid to Ask"? "My own personal copy. It's a fantastic reference guide. You should see the table of contents. I've been waiting for a chance to use it, and today is the day! This is gonna be so great"! Twilight answered. "Yes, uh, great". Rarity chuckled nervously. Back at Sweet Apple Arces, Apple Bloom was sitting on the couch looking out the window. She was of course waiting, and hoping Applejack would come up the path any second now, and open the door. Of course she knew the chances of that were slim to none. As Apple Bloom sat by the window, a huge flash of lighting, followed by a loud clap of thunder shook the house, this caused Apple Bloom to remeber back to a time in her past. She couldn't remember every detail of the memory, because it was a day she would rather forget then to go through again, all she could remember was seeing two dead ponies laying in front of her, as she looked at them with horror in her eyes, and tears streaming down her face. "Apple Bloom, dinner"! Apple Bloom was taking out of her flashback by the voice of her grandmother. "Coming"! "I can't go through something like that again" she thought to herself. Apple Bloom got off the couch and walked into the kitchen, trying her best to look like everything was alright, however both her brother and grandmother knew her better then that, they would be able to tell if something was wrong. Sure enough, when she entered the kitchen she heard her brother say. "You alright"? Apple Bloom knew her brother well enough not to lie to him, so she sighed, and told him what was going on. "I'm just worried about Applejack, Rarity, Mr. Braun, and Mr. Hoover". Granny Smith gave her youngest grandchild a reassuring smile. "Don't you freat now youngin, Applejack and the others will be fine". Apple Bloom, knowing her granny was usaully never wrong about things smiled and joined her family at the table, and they listen to the sounds of the storm outside the small house. Back at Twilight's place, Applejack had just fininished washing herself off, and walked back inside only to see Twilight, and Rarity covering themselves in mud face masks. "What in tarnation"... she exclamimed. "Now wait just a goll-darn minute. Ya make me wash the mud off my hooves, but it's okay for y'all to have mud all over yer faces"? Applejack asked. Rarity simply scoffed at the earth pony before explaining. "Silly! This is called a mud mask. It's to refresh and rejuvenate your complexion". "We're giving each other makeovers"! Eee-hee! Twilight stated with glee in her voice, before hovering the book infront of Applejack's face. We have to do it, it says so in the book. explained the purple unicorn. Applejack saw the book and began to read. "Slumber 101: everything you". Applejack stopped abruply, realizeing what Twilight wanted to do that night. "Oh hey, heh, would'ja look at the time. I gotta skidaddle on home quick. I'm powerful late for, uh, fer somethin. Uh, g'night". Applejack walked slowly out the door, doing her best not to look like she didn't want to be there, but she was stopped by a loud clap of thunder, causing her to slowly walk back inside. "Or maybe I'll sit here for a spell". Twilight remained oblivousy to Applejack, and Rarity's discomfort, and clapped her hoofs in excitment. "Hurray slumber party"! Applejack stood in place for a few minutes before being taken off guard by Rarity shoving a mud mask onto her face. "Blahch. What in the world is this for"? Applejack asked realing back in shock. Rarity sighed in annoyance to Applejack's complaint before explaining. "To reduce the puffiness around one's eyes, of course". Applejack just scoffed. "Puffiness-schmuffiness!" she stated, before proceeding to eat the cucumbers off of her eyes. "That's good eatin"! Twilight, still noticing what was going on between her friends just kept getting more and more excited for the slumber party. "Hee-hee! Isn't this exciting? We'll do everything by the book, and that will make my slumber party officially fun". Hearing this, Rarity turned to Applejack. "Did you hear that, Applejack? You certainly would not want to do anything that would ruin Twilight's very first slumber party, would you?" "Of course not, 'n you wouldn't either, I reckon"? Applejack asked. "So do we have an agreement"? Rarity asked. "You betcha"! Applejack stated before spitting into her hoof and presenting it to Rarity, for her to shake. Rarity just realed back in disgust. "Oh, gross! You know there's messy and there's just plain rude". Rarity stated. "You know, there's fussy, 'n there's just plain gettin' on my nerves". Applejack retorted back. Rarity just sighed before speaking again. "Fortunately, I can get along with anypony, no matter how difficult she may be". "Oh yeah"! Applejack began. "Well, I'm the "get-alongin-est" pony you're ever gonna meet". "That isn't even a word"! Rarity stated. But before the two of them could get into another argument, Twilight got in between them with a huge smile on her face. "This is going to be the bestest slumber party ever! Yay"! "Yay". Applejack and Rarity both chuckled nervously. Back at their home, Reiner, and Bertholdt were both sitting inside, Bertholdt staring out the window. "Some storm, the pegasi really made this one a doozy". He stated. "Yeah, they sure did". Reiner stated. "It kind of reminds me of that day back when we we're with the 104th cadet corps". Bertholdt thought back, remembering what Reiner was talking about. Bertholdt and Reiner had just finished the days training session, and we're walking back to their barracks. "Man, that training did a number on my shoulders". Bertholdt complained. "Next time be more careful when hitting your mark". Reiner told him before looking up at the sky, and seeing the storm clouds. "Looks like a storms brewing". he stated. His suspicions were confirmed when bright flash of lighting, and loud clap of thunder rocked the trees. "Come on, let's get back qucikly". Reiner stated. The two of them were about to run back to the barracks when the heard soft whimpering coming from behind a small bush. Walking over to the bush, they looked behind to see a female cadet, Mina Carolina trembleing behind it. "Mina, what are you doing"? asked Reiner. The girl, jumped in shock, hearing their voices, but sighed in relief once she saw them. "Oh, Reiner, Bertholdt, it's just you." "Yeah" Reiner stated. "Are you alright'. He asked. "Yeah! I'm fine, I'm just" Mina was intterupted by another loud clash of thunder, causing her to scream and cling to Reiner, who was taken aback. "Mina, are you afraid of storm"? asked Bertholdt. Knowing she couldn't hide it, Mina nodded. "Hey it's okay to be afraid, you know I used to be afraid of storms too". Reiner told her. "R-Really"? asked Mina. "You bet, but you know what I did"? "What"? "Well, everytime lighting would flash, I would start counting. The more numbers I counted, the farther the storm would be". Reiner explained. As soon as Reiner said that, another flash of lighting appeared, and he and Mina started to count. "One, Two, Three". Thunder clashed loudly, causing Mina to scream again. Reiner gave her a small smile. "Come on, let's get you back to your barracks". The three of them arrived back at the girls barracks in time to see three other cadets Sasha Braus, Christa Lenz, and Mikasa Ackerman all in their rain uniforms, and holding lantterns. Spotting Reiner, Bertholdt, and Mina. They ran over to the, "Mina, are you alright". Asked a concered Sasha. "Yeah, I just got lost, and then storm hit, but Reiner and Bertholdt found me, and walked me back". Mina explained. Mikasa gave Mina a small smile, before removing her rain uniform, and putting it on Mina. "Come on, let's get you back inside, and warm you up". she said, leading Mina back to the barracks, with Sasha following. Before she followed after them, Christa turned to Reiner, and Bertholdt with a smile on her face. "Thank you, for helping her". Reiner blushed slighteliy, but kept his composher. "No problem". he stated. With that Christa turned around and followed after Mikasa, Sasha, and Mina, while Bertholdt, and Reiner returned to their own barracks. Three years later, Reiner, and Bertholdt we're on the roof of a bulding, listening as Armin Arlert gave them terrible news. "They we're. The cadets of Squad 34. Thomas Wagner, Nack Tierce, Milieus Zeremski, Mina Carolina, and Eren Yeager! These brave five, upheld their duities, they died heroicly in the field of battle". Reiner, and Bertholdt stood their in shock. "Please no". Sasha stated with despair in her voice "His whole squad was wiped out"? asked a soldier. "The same will happen to us if we try to take on those Titans". said another. Reiner sighed as he looked at the storm happening in ponyville. "Mina Carolina, one of the many people whose deaths are on us". He thought to himself Currently Publicly Available Information Unyielding Vow. Through extensive research and accounts of various incidents, it has become clear that the scourge of Titans which have long plagued humanity are of human origin. The Colossal Titan which destroyed the Wall at Shiganshina District is a human possessing the ability to transform into a Titan, demonstrated by its intent to breach the Wall with the purpose to exterminate humans. Titans are not sent by the heavens to punish us for our sins, but invaders that must be driven back. Thus, we swear, by the blood our brothers and comrades spilled waging war against this foe, we shall not relent our lands nor yield the fight. Back at the library, Applejack, and Rarity we're sitting a few feet away from each other, both having their own scales on their faces. "So, how are you getting along over there, Applejack"? asked Rarity. "Just fine, Rarity". Applejack responeded. Twilight meanwhile was over by her desk, with a huge smile on her face. "This is so awesome"! she giggled before writing a check down on her self made slumber party checklist. "Makeovers, check". Twilight looked back into the book to see what was next, a huge smile appeared on her face when she saw the next step. "Ooh, it says here we have to tell ghost stories". Twilight looked over to the two ponies sitting a few feet away from her. "Who wants to go first?" she asked. Hearing this, Applejack instantly shot up. "Me! I'd like to tell y'all the terrifying tale of the prissy ghost who drove everypony crazy with her unnecessary neatness. Oo-oo! I'm sure y'all are familiar with that one"? Rarity, knowing that Applejack was talking about her decieded to tell her story. "Never heard of it, but I have a much better one. It's the horrifying story of the messy, inconsiderate ghost who irritated everypony within a hundred miles! Oo-oo"! "That's not even a real story, You made it up"! Applejack stated. "It's a ghost story. They're all made up"! Rarity retorted. All of a sudden the lights went out, causing Applejack, and Rarity to scream, as Twilight appeared in between them. "I've got one! This story is called The Legend of the Headless Horse. It was a dark and stormy night, just like this one. And three ponies were having a slumber party, just like this one"... Twilight told her story for about twenty mintues, finally getting to the end. "and just when the last pony thought she was safe, there, standing right behind her, just inches away was-- The Headless Horse". Once again the lights flashed off, again causing Applejack, and Rarity to scream, as Twilight appeared with a sheet over her body, to look like the headless horse. Twilight removed her costume and smiled before checking her list again. "Ghost story, check. Now, who wants s'mores"? Twilight looked at her friends in confusion. Rarity sighed, and smiled at Twilight. "S'mores are a wonderful deseret to have during either a slumber party, or even camping". "Oh". Twilight said. "How to you make them"? she asked. "First we need graham crackers". said Rarity. "Okay". Twilight said, as she pulled a box of graham crackers out of her cabient. "What else"? she asked. "Chocolate". answered Rarity. "Okay". Twilight replied pulling a box of chocolate bars out of another cabient. "And finally, marshmellows". Rarity said. "Got em". Twilight called out. "Alright now darling, come over here and I shall show you how to make the perfect s'mores". Rarity told the other unicorn. About five minutes later, Twilight was finshing making her very first s'more. "Then you place one marshmallow on the top of the chocolate and be sure it's centered--that's critical--and then carefully put another perfectly square graham cracker on the top. And done. Ta-da"! Rarity explained. Twilight looked on in amazment, while Applejack just scoffed. "Nah, ya just eat 'em"! Applejack stated before ploping the s'more into her mouth and chewing it up. Once she was done, she let out a loud belech, as Rarity looked on in disgust. "You could say excuese me you know". Applejack stared at Rarity in annoyance. "Aw, I was just about to, but you interrupted me. Pardon". Twilight still wasn't noticing what was going on and check her list once again. "S'mores, check. Now the next item of fun we have to do is Truth or Dare". Rarity shot Applejack a look, and smirked. "I dare Applejack to do something carefully and neatly for a change". "Oh yeah"? Applejack shot back. "Well I dare Rarity ta lighten up and stop obsessin' over every last little detail, for a change". Rarity looked back at Applejack before responding. "I believe the truth in the matter is that somepony should pay more attetion to details". "And I think the truth in the matter is somepony outgha quit complainin all the time". Applejack retorted. Twilight looked at the two in confusion before looking at the book. "Umm, I don't think that's how it works. You have to give an honest answer to any question or do whatever anypony dares you to do". "Well then I dare Rarity to step outside in the rain, so she can get her mane all messy again". Applejack declared. Rarity gapsed in shock, and looked at Twilight, who just nodded. "You have to, it's the rule". Twilight stated. "Fine". Rarity mutter in defeat. Rarity stepped outside, and came back all wet, and shivering, while Applejack laughed. "Okay. I dare Applejack to play dress-up in a frou-frou, glittery, lacey outfit". Rarity stated. Applejack gasped before walking off, She came back in a frilly princess dress. "Happy". she asked Rarity. "Very". Rarity replied. Twilight looked on in confusion. "Um.... Do I get a turn"? she asked. She however fell on deaf ears as Rarity, and Applejack kept daring each other to do crazy things. "I dare ya to enter the next rodeo when it comes to town". Applejack told Rarity. "I dare you not to enter the next rodeo that comes to town". Rarity told Applejack "I dare ya to not comb your mane a hundred times before bed". Applejack stated. "And I dare you to comb yours just once". Rarity retorted Realizing that things we're getting out of hoof, Twilight decieded to end the game right their. "I, uh, I think we should check off Truth or Dare and move on. Let's see what our next fun-fun-fun thing is, shall we? Hm, what does this mean? Pillow fight"? Rarity scoffed at the idea of a Pillow fight. "Oh, please. I am not at all interested in participating in something so crude". She soon had a change of heart however when Applejack threw a pillow right in her face. "Oh! It! Is! On"! Rarity declared as she and Applejack started throwing pillows at each other while Twilight looked on, finally understanding the concept of Pillow fight. "Oh, I get it! Pillow, fight! Fun"! Twilight smiled for a bit, before noticing that the fight was causing a decient amount of damage to her house. "Ugh. Ah. Uh, girls? Maybe we should take it down a notch"? "I will if she will"! Applejack stated pointing at Rarity. Rarity gasped, before pointing her own hoof at Applejack. "She started it"! They kept throwing pillows at each other until one was thrown at Twilight's face. So she decieded now was a perfect time to call it a night. "Maybe we should just call it a night and get some sleep"? At Sweet Apple Arces, Apple Bloom was still staring out the window, it had gotten much darker outside. "We're going to have a lot of messes to clean up tommorow. Hopefully everypony will be willing to do their part". Her mind then swicthed over to her sister. "If Applejack and Rarity ended up under the same roof together, I sure do hope they're gettin along". All of a sudden, Apple Bloom was taken out of her thoughts by a loud clap of thunder. "Woah"! she exclaimed. "Whoo Nelly, now that was probaly the loudest thunder clap all night". Granny Smith stated as she and Big Mac came into the living room with some hot coco, Big Mac offering a mug to Apple Bloom, who smiled at him, and took it. At Reiner, and Bertholdt's place, the two of them we're sitting around, board until Bertholdt decieded to break the sileance. "Do you think Applejack and Rarity are getting along"? he asked Reiner. "I sure hope so". Reiner replied Suddendly, there was a very loud clap of thunder, causing both Bertholdt and Reiner to jump. "Holy Crap"! Exclaimed Bertholdt. "That one was really loud". "I know". Reiner replied Back at Twilight's house, Twilight was a sleep in her bed, but Applejack and Rarity we're both having trouble getting to sleep on the guest bed Twilight had provided for them. "Keep your muddy hooves on your side of the bed". Rarity whispered to Applejack. "My hooves ain't muddy". Applejack responded. "They were. There might still be a little on them". Rarity retorted, "There ain't. See"? Applejack stated, shoving her hoof into Rarity's face who realed back in disgust. Rarity then took the covers all for herself, leaving Applejack with none. All the while Twilight could hear them, but did her best to ignore it, hoping that they would get over it themselves. "Now who's bein' inconsiderate"? Applejack asked as she took the covers back. Rarity groaned and got out of the bed. "I have to make the bed again so the blanket will be right. Get up". She said as she knocked Applejack out of the bed. "Hey"! Applejack exclaimed. Once Rarity was done, Applejack tried to climb back in, only for Rarity to stop her. "Ah ah ah! You'll ruin it. You have to do it like this. Mm, uh, ooh, u-u-u-uh, uh, ah". Rarity stated as she gentley climd under the covers. Applejack just rolled her eyes in response. "Yeah, that's not gonna happen". Applejack stated as she leaped into the air. "Geronimo"! Once again the covers shot up so they only covered Applejack, and left Rarity without any. "You did that on purpose". Rarity accused. "Um, Yeah". Applejack responded. "Get up so I can fix it again". Rarity stated, but Applejack ignored her. "Can't hear ya, I'm asleep". Applejack then started to pretend and snore, fueling Rarity's anger as she tried to once again push the earth pony out of the bed, but Applejack wasn't going to knocked off so eaisly this time. "I ain't budgin". She told Rarity. Hearing this, an idea flew into Rarity's head. "You will if you want any blankets". And with that, Rarity yanked the Blanket off of Applejack, That got Applejack to get up, and she stared at Rarity with anger in her eyes. "Give it back"! Applejack demaned. "I will not". Rarity retorted. "Yes you will". Applejack stated. She, and Rarity then started to tug at the blanket. Twilight could her all of this going on, her frustration growing, until finally she decieded to intervine. "Enough"! She shouted at the two of them. This caused both Applejack, and Rarity to look at Twilight who hovered the book infront of their faces. "It says right here that the number one thing you're supposed to do at a slumber party is have fun, and thanks to you two I can't check that off"! "I've been tryin' my darndest to get along". Applejack stated trying to defened her own actions, and place all of the blame on Rarity. "No, it is I who have been trying my best". Rarity retorted. "No it was me"! Applejack stated. "No it was I"! Rarity replied. The two of them then started aruging again, but we're quickly stopped by Twilight. "I hope you're happy, both of you. You've ruined my very first slumber party. The makeover, the s'mores, Truth or Dare, the pillow fight... I mean, is there anything else that could possibly go wrong"? As soon as Twilight said that, a huge flash of lighting stuck a tree a feet away from the library, cracking it a bit, and frighteing Twilight who hid under her covers. "Sorry I asked". Twilight stated sheepishly. The three of them stared out the window, and noticed that the three was about to crash on another house. "Ya see? That's why we needed to take down all those loose branches in town, not spiffy 'em up". Applejack told Rarity. "But I--" Rarity started only for Applejack to interupt her. "Outta my way, missy! Time's a-wastin"! Wait, stop! Rarity tried to tell Applejack, only to be ignored, as the only thing on Applejack's mind was saving that house. "No waitin'! No stoppin'! Doin"! Applejack then lassoed the tree with her rope and pulled it up, smilling at her work. "And that, my friends, is what we call gettin' 'er done". Applejack stated. Unfourtently, all of Applejack's efforts ended up being futile, as the tree ended falling inside Twilight's house instead. Rarity looked at Applejack with a disaproving glare. "I tried to tell you it would come crashing down in here". She stated. "Well you shoulda tried harder! Applejack shot back before looking at Twilight". "I'm mighty sorry, Twilight". she apologized. Twilight tried to think of a response, to make Applejack feel better, but she couldn't, not with the current situation at hoof in her own room. "It's... Well, it's not okay. There's a giant tree branch in the middle of my bedroom, and the book doesn't say anything about having a giant tree branch at your slumber party. Or at least I haven't found that entry yet". The purple unicorn stated. Applejack sighed before noticing Rarity tididying up the area. "Cleaning up this mess somepony made! Who was that again? Oh, right, that's you!" Rarity shouted at Applejack. "We gotta do sometin"! Applejack stated to Rarity, while Twilight was still looking through book hopeing to find a situation to their problem. "Baking....... BFFS....... Brothers......... There's nothing in here about branches". Twilight groaned in frustration. Applejack was still trying to remove the tree from the room, but stopped when she noticed that Rarity was still only worrying about the small things. "Rarity, for pony's sake, stop sweatin' the small stuff and help me get rid of this thing"! She called out, only for Rarity to ignore her. "I said hussle over here and help me"! Applejack demanded. Only to be ignored again. Finally, Applejack sighed. She knew what she had to say in order to get Rarity to help her. "Look, I'm sorry, all right"? "What was that"? Rarity asked in confusion. "I said I'm sorry! I shoulda listened to you when you noticed where this here branch would end up. Yer annoyin' attention to detail would'a saved us from this whole mess. But right now, ya need to stop bein' so dang fussy pickin' up all the little things and help me move the one big thing in here that actually matters! Please"! Applejack begged. Rarity didn't want to at first, because of the risk of getting dirty. "Uh. Uh, but I'll get all icky". She complained, causing Applejack to get frustrated once again. "Consarnit! What the... eh... you"... Applejack managed to calm herself down, and decieded to speak calmly to Rarity. "I mean, yes, ickiness is often a side effect of hard work. But y'all need to get over it, on account I just can't fix this mess I made myself. I need your help". Applejack stated. Hearing this, Rarity finally relented, and agreed to help. "Oh. Let's do this". She declared. The two of them began working to remove the tree from the bedroom, all the while Twilight was still looking through the book when she found something she thought could help them "Well, they do have a section about backyard slumber parties. Is that what we're doing right now? Does this count as camping"? she asked. Applejack and Rarity we're too busy working on the tree to hear Twilight. Finally, after a bunch of hard work, they manged to get the tree out of the library. Of course while doing so, Rarity had made some small little pony shaped tree statues, she also ended up getting dirty like she was afraid of. "U-ugh. Oh, I look awful". she complained. Applejack gave Rarity a small smile, and put two cumcumbers over her eyes. "Better"? she asked. "Hmph, thanks". Rarity replied. Twilight realized that things had quiet down, so she put down the book, and noticed the tree statues. "Oh, cute"! she stated, before quickly looking at the book again. "They're also not in the book." she pointed out, causing Applejack and Rarity to laugh. Later, all three of them we're downstairs playing 20 questions. Twilight was thinking of something, and Applejack, and Rarity had to guess what it was she was thinking of. "Is it bigger than a barn"? Applejack asked. "Nope"! Twilight laughed. "Is it smaller then a saddle". Asked Rarity. No! Only three of your twenty questions left"! Twilight laughed again. "We're never gonna guess what you're thinkin' of, it could be anythin". Applejack complained. "Are we getting warmer"? Rarity asked. Twilight looked at her friends with worry, thinking that they we're too cold. "Why? Is it too cold in here for you? I can turn up the heat". Applejack smiled at Twilight, and explained what Rarity meant. "She means are we gettin' any closer with our guesses"? Twilight smiled back, now realizing what Rarity meant. "Oh! No. And that technically counted as a question, so only two more left"! Applejack thought for a bit before coming up with the first answer that popped into her head. "Is it... a six-legged pony with a purple polka-dotted mane and shootin' stars comin' out of his eyes"? She began. "Who flies through the air all over the world to hide magic, sparkly eggs"? Rarity continued. Twilight stared at the two for a bit before answering. "That's it"! she declared. "Really"? asked both Applejack and Rarity. "No". Twilight admited. "It's that". She said, pointing up to her telescope. "But it was just so nice to see you two finally getting along, that I wanted you to win together". Twilight explained. Applejack, and Rarity both laughed after hearing this, causing Twilight to smile. "See? We could have been having fun like this all along". She stated. "If only somepony hadn't been so persnickety". Applejack stated "Well, maybe she wouldn't have been if somepony else hadn't been so sloppy". Rarity retorted back. The two fo them glared at each other for a bit, and then smiled. "Sorry for being such a pain in the patootie". Applejack apologzied to Rarity. "Oh, no, I'm sure I was much worse." Rarity stated. "That's kind of ya to say, but I'm the one who's sorry". Applejack replied. "Oh, I'm much more sorry than you are". Rarity declared. "Ugh. Are not". Applejack argued. "Are too". Rarity argued back. The two of them began to argue again, but this time, instead of staying mad, they started to laugh, as Twilight came in between them with the book, ready to check off the final item on the list. "I declare my first slumber party a success"! Applejack and Rarity cheered, as Twilight checked off the final thing. "Have fun! Check"! A few minutes later, Rarity was gudieing Applejack, who had two cumcumbers over her eyes. " Now take two steps to your left". Applejack began to move to the left, only for Rarity to stop her. "No, my left". she corrected. "Whu, which is it"? Applejack asked, before crashing into the book fort from the eariler pillow fight. "This mess is your fault, not mine". Applejack stated while laughing. "Sorry". Rarity apologized. Laughing as well. While the two of them we're laughing, Twilight was writing a letter to Princess Celestia. "Dear Princess Celestia, It's hard to believe that two ponies who seem to have so little in common could ever get along. But I found out that if you embrace each other's differences, you just might be surprised to discover a way to be friends after all". At Sweet Apple Arces. Apple Bloom, Big Macintosh, and Granny Smith we're sitting by the fireplace, and drinking their hot coco, While at Reiner, and Bertholdt's place, they we're sitting on their couch. Once Twilight was finished her letter, she looked over to Applejack, and Rarity. "So, who's up for another slumber party tomorrow night"? She asked. Twilight's response was getting two pillows thrown into her face. "Ugh. How about a week from Thursday? Oh, how about two weeks from Saturday? A month from now"? she kept asking, while Applejack, and Rarity just laughed. Preview When strange things befall Twilight and her friends, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy are quick to blame a mysterious stranger who came to town eailer that day. Now it's up Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom to not only find a cure, but proove that their friends supicions, are wrong. Next Episode. Bridle Gossip. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Derpy Hooves Sweetie Drops Golden Harvest Samatha Cheerliee Applejack Daisy Rarity Big Macintosh Apple Bloom Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Twilight Sparkle Granny Smith Bright Macintosh (Flashback corpse) Pear Butter (Flashback corpse) Mina Carolina (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Historia Reiss (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback)
Episode 14: Bridle Gossip: Gala arc Part 7It was bright and beautiful morning in ponyville. Celestia's sun shone brightly over the town, with not a single cloud in the sky. Twilight Sparkle, and her dragon assistaint Spike we're walking along, both admiring the glorious day. "Wow, what a gorgeous day"! Twilight stated. Spike nodded in agreement as he looked up at the sky. "Rainbow Dash must have gotten up early for once and cleared all the clouds away". He theroized. "I bet all of Ponyville is going to be out enjoying the sunshine. Twilight pointed out. As if on cue, after Twilight said that, she and Spike, saw Apple Bloom, Bertholdt Hoover, and Reiner Braun. They walked over to the three other ponies. "Good morning you three". Twilight called out. "Oh, hello Twilight, and Spike". Reiner greeted. "What are you doing out here, on this fine day" Spike asked. "Well Granny Smith asked me to pick up some items from the market for supper tonight". Apple Bloom explained. "But as you see". Apple Bloom pointed out, before looking around the town, along with Reiner, and Bertholdt. This caused Twilight, and Spike to look around too, that was when they noticed that the town was compltely empty. "Huh? Where is everypony"? asked Twilight. "I don't know, when I got to the market, it was empty, that was when I ran into Bertholdt, and Reiner". Apple Bloom explained. Spike Looked around in confusion. "Is it some sort of pony holiday"? "Not that I know of". Twilight answered. "Does my breath think"? Spike asked, as he burped. "Not more then usual". Stated Bertholdt, as he fanned the area with his wings. Spike tried to think of any other possible reasons as to why the town was empty. "Is it... zombies"?! He asked in fear. "Uh... not very likely". Apple Bloom responeded. "Not liklely, but possible"? Spike asked again. The five of them stood around for a while, until they heard the voice of Pinkie Pie whisperer out to them. "Psst! Twilight! Spike! Apple Bloom! Reiner! Bertholdt! Come here! Come! Here! Hurry! Before she gets you". They looked at Pinkie Pie in confusion for a bit, before Apple Bloom shurgged, and walked inside, Reiner sighed, and followed after her, along with Twilight, and Bertholdt. Once inside, Spike was the first to speak. "Who are we hiding from? The zombie Pony"? "Z-Zombie pony"?! Pinkie Pie asked, trembeling. "Spike! There are no Zombie ponies"! Twilight stated. Reiner looked around, he noticed that all the lights were out. That only added to his confusion. "Pinkie Pie, what's going on? Why are you hidning alone in the dark"? he asked. "I'm not alone". she answered before pulling out a lanteren and shinning it around the room to reveal Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy all in the room with them. "Okay then, what are you all doing here in the dark"? Reiner asked again. Yeah, what's going Applejack"? asked Apple Bloom. "We're hidin' from her"! Applejack answered while pointing out the window. This prompted Twilight, Spike, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt too also look out, and they saw what appeared to be a hooded pony. "Did you guys see her? Did you see, Zecora"? asked Pinkie Pie, which caused Applejack to give her a stern look. "Pinkie! I told you not to say that name"! The five new faces in sugarcube corner gave Applejack, and Pinkie Pie confused looks before Reiner spoke up. "Well, we saw her glance this way". "Glance evily"? Pinkie Pie intteruptted. Reiner stared at her Blankly for a few seconds before contiuing. "And then a bunch of you flip out for no good reason". Applejack gasped in shock hearing Reiner say that. "No good reason? That Zecora lady is dangerous, why if ya'll didn't come in here when Pinkie Pie called you, whose knows what woulda happened". "Okay........... Well maybe you could explain why she's dangerous? Cause she looks pretty normal to me" Twilight told them. "Ugh! Normal"? Rarity gasped. Fluttershy noddeded in agreement. "She's mysterious". She stated. "Sinister". Rainbow Dash replied. "And spoooooky"! Pinkie Pie finished, causing Twilight the groan, and Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy to gasp. "Will you stop that"? Twilight asked. They continued to stare at Zecora while she did, whatever she was doing. "Just look at those stripes! So garish"! Rairty insulted. "She's a Zebra". Stated Reiner. "A what? asked everyone", except Twilight, Spike, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom. "A zebra, and her stripes aren't a fashion choice Rarity, they're what she was born with". Twilight answered. That statment caused Rarity to fanit in horror, while Applejack spoke up. Born where? I've never seen a pony like that in these parts, 'cept... Her. "Well, she's probably not from here, and she's not a pony. My books say that zebras come from a faraway land. But I've never seen her in Ponyville. Where does she live"? Twilight asked. "That's just it, she lives in... the Everfree Forest"! Applejack replied. All of a sudden there was a loud crash from the kitchen, causing everyone to look in that direction, and see Spike, who had knocked over some pots and pans. "Spike"! Twilight scolded. "Oops, sorry". Spike Chuckled nervously. As soon as that situation was handled, Applejack started to speak again. "The Everfree Forest just ain't natural. The plants grow"... "Animals care for themselves". Fluttershy stated. "And the clouds move". Rainbow Dash began. "All on their own"! She, Applejack, and Fluttershy finished. Once again, Rarity fanited, as Twilight, and Reiner just rolled their eyes. Pinkie Pie then spoke up. "Also that wicked enchantress Zecora lives there doing her evil... stuff! She's so evil I even wrote a song about her"! Hearing this caused Dash to groan in annoyance. "Here we go". But she was unable to stop Pinkie Pie from singing her little musical number. She's an evil enchantress She does evil dances And if you look deep in her eyes She'll put you in trances Then what will she do? She'll mix up an evil brew Then she'll gobble you up In a big tasty stew Soooooo........ Watch Out! Once Pinkie Pie was finshied her song the others just staried at her. "Wow...... Cathcy". Bertholdt pointed out. "It's a work in progress"! Pinkie defeneded Apple Bloom then looked at her sister. "Applejack, you can't seriously believe that all this is true can you"? She asked. "Of course I can belieive it"! Applejack stated. "But how can you believe something so...... Silly"? Apple Bloom asked. Applejack just sighed before putting her hoof on Apple Bloom's shoulder. "Sugarcube listen, you just gotta trust me on this, I mean when have ever lied to you about things". Applejack countered. "Never". Apple Bloom stated. "But maybe if you explained why you all believe Zecora is bad, then maybe I would have a better time understanding your suspicions". Apple Bloom concluded. Apple Bloom's right, everything you're saying about Zecora is just a lot of gossip and rumors. So please tell us. what exactly have you actually seen Zecora do? asked Reiner. The five ponies who we're already in sugarcube corner stared at each other for a bit before Rainbow Dash spoke up. "Well... Once a month, she comes into Ponyville". "Ooooooh". Reiner groaned mockingly. "Then she lurks by the stores". Rarity contiuned. "Oh my". Twilight stated in the same maner as Reiner. "And then, she digs at the ground". Fluttershy concluded. "Good gracious"! Twilight, and Reiner both said as the pretended to hug each other. Once the others were done explaing Reiner went back to talking in his normal voice. "Okay, I'm sorry. But how is any of this bad? Maybe she comes to town to visit"? Apple Bloom nodded in agreement. "That's true, she might just be trying to be nice". "And maybe she's not lurking by the stores, maybe she's going to them, lurk free, you know to shop". Twilight stated. "That's also true. Everyone likes to shop". Bertholdt pointed out. Twilight, Reiner, and Apple Bloom all nodded in agreement. "That's exactly what I was doing before you dragged us in here". Apple Bloom stated. "Twilight smiled at Apple Bloom". "You don't believe any of this do you Apple Bloom"? she asked. Apple Bloom thought for a bit, she was unsure how to feel, on one hoof Applejack has never lied to her, about anything, but on the other, everything that they had said was just plain silly. "I don't know, It does sound silly but"..... Apple Bloom put a hoof to her head, and groaned. "Are you okay"? asked Reiner. "Y-yeah, my head just hurts". Apple Bloom stated. "Probaly because this topic is very serious, and you can't handle it. Why don't you sit down and rest, while us older ponies discuss this". Applejack said gentley. "Okay". Apple Bloom stated as she went to one of the booths to sit down, listing as the others contiued their conversation. "W-what about digging at the ground? You've got to admit that's strange". Rainbow Dash pointed out. "Maybe she's digging for cute innocnet creatures". Fluttershy suggested while Pinkie was singing her song in the background. Twilight, and Reiner couldn't believe what they we're hearing. "I am sure there is an explanation for everything Zecora does, and if any of you we're willing to go up and talk to her, you would find out the truth". Twilight stated. Apple Bloom sat at her table, listening intently to the entire conversation. "I'm brave enough, maybe I should talk to her". she thought to herself. With that, Apple Bloom got up out of the booth, and began to sneak outside, she was almost out the door, when she felt someone touch her shoulder, causing her to jump in shock. Apple Bloom turned around to see Reiner, and Bertholdt staring at her with dissaproving glances. "What do you think you're doing?" asked Reiner. Apple Bloom just stared at the two of them, as she struggled with what she was going to say. "I-I was gonna go out there and try to talk to Zecora". she stammered. Reiner shook his head at her explamation. "No you're not". Apple Bloom was shocked, after Reiner had said that Zecora wasn't evil he still wouldn't talk to her? "But, you said"! Apple Bloom began, only to have Reiner intterupt her. "I know what I said, but you should never go up to someone you don't know". He explained. Apple Bloom looked down in sadness. "Then how are we going to know if she's evil or not"? she asked. Reiner gave Apple Bloom a small smile. "Don't worry, Bertholdt and I are going to try and speak with her". He answered before looking at the pegagus stalion. Right Bertholdt"? "Of course". Bertholdt replied. Reiner smiled at his friend before turning to Apple Bloom. Well be back, now no matter what, stay here! He told her firmly. Apple Bloom nodded her head, and with that, Reiner and Bertholdt left. Apple Bloom watched as they headed for Zecora, she wanted to tell the others what they we're doing but she saw that they we're still arguing with Twilight. Apple Bloom opted to go after the two stalions, but remembered that they told her to stay put, that only made her more confused though, and she ended up getting another migrane, so she decieded to sit by the wall in the back of sugarcube corner, in order to get her thought together. While Apple Bloom sat in the back, Twilight was still arguing with the rest of her friends. "You ponies are being ridiculous"! Twilight stated. "Oh yeah! Well I heard that Zecora eats hay". Pinkie Pie argued. Twilight only rolled her eyes at this. "Pinkie. I eat hay, you eat hay"! She stated. "Yeah, but I heard it's the evil way she eats it". Pinkie told Twilight. It was then, that Applejack noticed that not all of their friends we're in view. "Hey! Where are Bertholdt and Reiner"? she asked. The ponies began to look around for the two staillions. "The door's open". Fluttershy stated. "And Zecora is still out there! Cried Rarity in despair", while Twilight simply rolled her eyes. "Girls! Reiner, and Bertholdt are full grown stalions. They can handle themselves". Twilight stated mater of factorly. "Not against Zecora"! Applejack argued, as she, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie rushed outside. Twilight sighed, and looked at Spike, who had just came out of the kitchen. "Spike, you stay here with Apple Bloom in case Reiner, and Bertholdt come back". She told him. Spike nodded his head. "Can do"! Spike agreeded, as Twilight ran out of the room. Outside, Reiner and Bertholdt we're following behind Zecora, watching her every move. Evenutally she started to head for the Everfree forest. Reiner and Bertholdt made sure to stay close behind. Finally Reiner decieded to call out to her. "Hey". Reiner began, only for him to be intterupted by Pinkie Pie's loud voice. "REINEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR"! Reiner turned around, and was instantly knocked into a patch of strange blue flowers, as Pinkie Pie was on top of him, hugging him tightly. "IMSOGLADYOUTWOARESAFEIWASSOSCAREDTHATZECORAWASGOINGTODOSOMETHINGHORRIBLETOYOU"! She exclaimed super face. "Pinkie, I can't breath". Reiner complained, as the rest of the Mane Eight came up. All of them walking into the patch of Blue flowers. "Oh my stars, thank goodness you two are safe"! Cried Rarity. Reiner, and Bertholdt looked at her in confusion, and then, Zecora spoke! "Beware! Beware, you pony folk! Those leaves of blue are not a joke"! "Y-you keep your creepy mumbo-jumbo to yourself, ya hear"? Applejack nervously yelled back at Zecora. She, along with Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Rarity all started yelling nonsense at Zecora, while Bertholdt looked on, Reiner rolled his eyes, and Twilight sighed. Oh, brother. She sighed. Zecora ignored their shouting, and contiue to chant. "Beware, Beware". Rainbow Dash was unfazed by Zecora's warnings, and shouted back at her. "Yeah, back at ya, Zecora! You and your lame curse are the ones who better beware"! As Zecora left, Applejack turned to Reiner, and Bertholdt, A look of releif on her face. "Are ya two alright"? she asked. "Yeah of course, why wouldn't we be"? Reiner asked in confusion. "Why"!? Applejack stated in shock. "Because who knows what kind of nasty curse Zecora could have just put on you"? she pointed out. "Just like in my song"! Pinkie Pie stated, as she began to sing her song, once again. "You guys, there's no such thing as curses"! Twilight shouted at her friends. "Well that's funny coming from Miss Magical unicorn herself". Rainbow Dash mocked Twilight. This only caused Twilight to smirk, as she then began lectuering her friends. "My magic, which is real comes from within. It's a skill you're born with. Curses are artificial, fake magic. It's conjured with potions and incantations; all smoke and mirrors meant to scare. But curses have no real power, they're just an old pony tale". But when Twilight looked, she noticed that Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Fluttershy ignoring her, while Applejack just stared at her, Bertholdt, and Reiner with a disaproving glare. "Just you three wait. You're gonna find out that some pony tails, really are true". Applejack stated as she walked away. "And tommorow when we're all fine, I'll be the one laughing at you"! Twilight shouted to Applejack. This caused the orange Earth Pony to turn towards Twilight, but rather then yell back, Applejack just smirked. "We shall see". she stated before walking off Twilight groaned in frustration. She couldn't believe how judgemental her friends we're being. "Why are they being so damn stuborn". She asked. "Sometimes there are those who believe one thing, and hate it when they're told that they're wrong". Reiner explained That night, Twilight slept in her bed, but her mind was racing with thoughts. She remebered part of Pinkie Pie's Song "She's an evil enchantress, and she does evil dances". Zecora's words. "Beware! Beware" Pinkie's song again. "If you look deep in her eyes, she will put you in trances". Rainbow Dash mocking Zecora. "Was that suppose to scare us"?! Rarity's words "Wicked, wicked zebra". Fluttershy's "..... It's a curse". Applejack's warning "Some pony tales, really are true". The end of Pinkie's song. "Then she'll gobble you up in a big tastey stew! Soooo... Watch out"! And finally, Zecora laughing evil. "NO"! Twilight awoke with a start, and looked around her room, panting. I'm letting my imagantion get to me. Yeah tommorow, Applejack will be the one to see that I'm right, and she's wrong Currently Publicly Available Information Zebras. A species of Pony that lives in a land far from Equestria, their most notable features are their stripes. The next morning, Twilight woke up, and stretched her hoofs. "Phew, what a dream". She muttered to herself, before looking around. So far, everything seemed normal, this caused Twilight to smirk. "Curses, schmurses. Will see who's laughing today Applejack." Twilight snickered devishly as she walked to the mirror. Once Twilight got to her mirror she gasped in shock notcing that she had a very bad case of bed head. "Whoah! Maybe Zecora cursed my hair". she chuckled, as she began to brush her mane, but as she brushed, she noticed that something was indeed wrong. "Or maybe she cursed my horn"! She gasped, as she noticed that her horn was flabby, and covered in strange blue polka dots. Twilight rushed downstairs, waking up Spike in the process, and she began to look through all her books on dieses, and illments. "No no no no no! None of these books have a cure! Ugh! There has to be a real reason for this! An illness? An allergy"?! "A curse!" Spike suggested. "I said a real reason". Twilight explained. Spike contiued to help Twilight look around, before finding something. "How about this one"? Spike asked as he presented Twilight with the book he found. Twilight only sighed when she read the title. "Supernaturals? Spike, the word supernatural refers to things like ghosts and spirits and zombies, which are as make-believe as curses. This book is just a bunch of hooey"! She stated. "But what if you're wrong Twilight"? Spike tried to argue. "I'm Not"! Twilight exclaimed. Spike was about to counter, when he and Twilight we're intterupted by a knock on the door. Twilight opened it and saw Reiner, and Bertholdt standing outside, but somehing was off. Reiner looked smaller, as in his broud shoulders seemed more deshevled, and one of Bertholdt's wings was much bigger then the other. Twilight and Spike both gasped when they saw the two of them. "Reiner, Bertholdt, are you guys alright"?! Twilight asked in concern. "I don't know, Reiner and I just went to bed last night perfectley fine, and when we woke up we we're like this". Bertholdt explained. Spike looked around nervously before asking Reiner if he had any idea what caused this. Do you think Zecora did this? Do you think it's"... "Ah pfurse"! a voice intterupted Spike who turned around a saw Pinkie Pie at the door, but like the other three, something was wrong with her. Pinkie Pie's cheeks had been puffed up to the point where her tounge forced to stick out of her mouth and making it hard for anyone to understand what she was saying. "A purse? How could it be a purse"? asked Spike. Twilight however was more concered for her pink friend and went over to see what was was wrong. "Pinkie? What happened"? "Pee pah Zthecora! Sthe put a cursthe on me"! Pinkie spat. "Hey! Say it, don't spray it Pinkie"! Spike exclaimed in annoyance. "What are you talking about"? asked Reiner. Before Pinkie could continue they all herd a loud thud, and looked over to see Rainbow Dash who had just crashed into the libray. "She's trying to tell you that Zecora put a curse on us"! Rainbow Dash stated. Twilight was about to debunk this claim when she was intterupted by another voice. "I'm afraid I have to agree". Rarity commented. Her hair had grown so long and shaggy that it made hard for her to see. Next Applejack arrived, but she was super tiny and had to hitch a ride on Apple Bloom's back, the red haired filly had a very uncomfortble look on her face, which Twilight, and Reiner both took notice of "I hate to say I told ya so, Reiner but I told ya so! It's a curse I tells ya"! Applejack ranted. "She kept repeating that over and over while we we're on our way." Apple Bloom stated, with a hint of distress in her voice. Bertholdt looked around the library, and then he noticed Fluttershy, who seemed pretty normal to him. "Well what about Fluttershy"? she seems fine. "Yeah, there doesn't seem to be a thing wrong with her". Rarity pointed out, as much as she believed Zecora had put a curse on them, part of her had to admit that Bertholdt had a point, but Fluttershy being who she was just might not be willing to tell them what her problem was. "Fluttershy, are you okay"? Reiner asked. Fluttershy ignored him "Is there something wrong with you"? asked Twilight Fluttershy nodded. "Would mind telling us"? asked Bertholdt. Fluttershy ignored him. "So... you're not going to tell us"? Twilight asked. Fluttershy nodded, but that only confused Twilight more. "Yes you're not, or yes you will"? Twilight asked. Applejack was getting annoyed and ran across the table over to Fluttershy. "Good gravy, girl! What's wrong with you"?! Fluttershy turned away, before finally speaking. "I don't wanna talk about it" she answered in a deep male voice. Seeing all of the ponies in this state, Spike couldn't help but burst out into laughter, as he thought of several nicknames for the eight friends. "This is hilarious! Look at all of you! We got: Hairity, Rainbow Crash, Spitty Pie, Apple Teeny, Flutterguy, Big Bertie, Old Man Braun, and... uh... I got nothin'... Twilight Sparkle. I mean seriously, I can't even work with that. Twilight and the others however did not find Spike's humor to be funny in the slightest "This is no joke, Spike. Now start looking for more books so I can find a cure"! Spike groaned. So did Rainbow Dash. "I think we'll find a cure to this curse at Zecora's place"! She exclaimed. "It's not a curse"! Reiner argued. "I agree with Dash! We'll go to Zecora's and force her to remove this hex"! Applejack retorted. "It's not a hex either"! Twilight shouted agreeing with Reiner. The ponies all started to shout over each other as Apple Bloom looked on in distress seeing all the ponies she looked up to arguing with each other. She got another headache and had to step outside. Once out of the libaray Apple Bloom began to think. "What can I do, how can this problem be resolved"? Should I go try to find Zecora myself? No that's stupid, she lives in the Everfree forest with all kinds of dangerous creatures. Then again, she's probally the only one who knows what really happend, even if she wasn't directly responisble." As Apple Bloom pondered her thoughts, she remebered something her Father told her a while back. "Remember Apple Bloom, never judge a creature just on the way it looks, Every Creature is special and has a role to play in our world". "Daddy, if only you we're here now to tell them that". Apple Bloom whispered. The young filly was then taken out of her thoughts by a tap on her shoulder. She looked up to see Reiner looking at her in concern. "Hey, you alright"? He asked. "Oh, um yeah. I'm fine. Why"? "Well why everyone was arguing in their, Twilight happened to notice you walk out, and she asked me to check on you". "Oh so Twilight's worried about, but not Applejack. Of course". Apple Bloom stated sarcastictly. Reiner looked Apple Bloom in cofusion but decieded not to push any further. Back inside the libray Rainbow Dash was getting into Twilight, and Bertholdt's faces. "I don't care what you two say It's time to pony up and confront Zecora. Come on, girls. Are you with me". "Ah am-pft"! Pinkie spat "So am I"! Rarity agreed. Fluttershy however was more hesientant then the others. "Uh, I don't know. Seems awfully dangerous". "What about you Applejack"? asked Dash. "You betcha"! Applejack stated just as Apple Bloom, and Reiner walked back in. "What's going on"? Reiner asked. "We're going to stop Zecora once and for all"! Rainbow Dash stated. "That's right"! Rarity confirmed. Twilight, Apple Bloom, Bertholdt, and Reiner all looked at the others with concernd. "But". Apple Bloom began only to be intterupted by Applejack. "Let's gather the whole town, and run Zecora out"! "YEAH"! Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash all cheered. With that all of them ran out of the libary, Applejack on Fluttershy's back while Rainbow Dash crashed into the wall, before making it out of the library and following the other four as Twilight, Spike, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom stood in the library. "What are we gonna do"? asked Apple Bloom in despair. "I don't know. They've seem to have lost it"! Twilight stated. Reiner stood with Bertholdt, thinking of how to handle the situation. "There's only one thing we can do, and that's to go to Zecora and ask her how to fix our problems". Reiner stated. This confused the others for a bit. "Are you sure that's a good idea Reiner"? asked Bertholdt. "We don't have a choice Bertholdt". Reiner told his friend. Twilight looked down before nodding her head. "You're right, we have to do this. we have to confront Zecora, and see if she can help us". "I'm going with you"! Apple Bloom stated, causing the others to look at her. "No, you stay here". Reiner told her, but Apple Bloom shook her head. "As far as I'm concerend an innocent Zebra is about to be accused and possibly arrested for a crime she didn't commint. I always belived that everything Applejack told me was true, but this, I just can't agree with what she, and the others want to do. So please Twilight, Let Me Help You"! Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt looked at Apple Bloom, and saw that she had no intentions of backing down, Twilight sighed. "Alright, you can come, but stay close to us". Apple Bloom beamed in delight. "Thank you". "I'll stay here, and uh, keep the library safe, yeah. I'm totally not afraid of Zecora". Spike chuckled nervously as Twilight rolled her eyes before leaving, and heading towards the Everfree Forest, with Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom. Meanwhile in the center of town, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy had gotten the attention of a huge crowd, with Rainbow Dash adressing them with a megaphone. "Listen up! As you can clearly see, something strange has happened to Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie. Well something happened to me too, and I'll show you". Rainbow Dash flew into the air, only to crash back down, causing the crowd to gasp. "What about Fluttershy is something wrong with her"? asked a random stalion. "Yes". Fluttershy confirmed in her deep male voice which the ponies to gasp again as Rainbow Dash continued. "The one who did this to us, was Zecora, and we need to teach her a lesson! It's time to stand tall, and run that evil witch out once and for all"! Rainbow Dash concluded. The crowd cheered in response as they all left to gather pitchforks and torches to form an angry mob. Meanwhile. Twilight, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt we're walking through the forest when they once again came across the blue plants. Seeing them caused Reiner to remember back to something Zecora had sad yesterday. Beware! Beware, you pony folk! Those leaves of blue are not a joke! This caused Reiner to stop, the others to bump into him. "What's wrong"? asked Twilight. "We shouldn't walk in those blue plants they're dangerous". Reiner stated. "Why do you think that"? asked Bertholdt. "I'm not sure, but I bet Zecora will". Reiner said as he used his magic to pick a few up, and put them into his saddle bag. After about fiffteen minutes of walking, the group finally made it to a tree that had a door. "You think this is the place"? asked Apple Bloom. "Only one way to find out". Twilight said as she knocked on the door. The four ponies waited for a few minutes before the door slowly opened, and Zecora stepped, with a look of shock on her face. "Oh, vistiors I see, what brings you to my humble home inside of a tree"? the zebra asked. The ponies just stood in place for a few momments before Twilight finally spoke up. "Hi, um Zecora right"? The zebra nodded causing Twilight to smile. "I'm Twilight Sparkle, and these are my friends, Reiner Braun, Bertholdt Hoover, and Apple Bloom. Zecora stared at the four ponies inside of her house, and it didn't take her long to notice that something was a miss with three of them. "I see you did not heed my warning about the leaves of blue, I told that they we're no joke". Zecora said dissapointly. "Yeah, that's actually what we wanted to ask you about. Reiner said as he opened his saddle bag to show the blue plants he collected, and gave them to Zecora. "What are these plants anyway"? asked Bertholdt. "This is poison joke". Zecora answered. "Poison joke"? Apple Bloom questioned. "Yes, it is very much like poison oak, but it's results are like a joke". Zecora replied. Apple Bloom just looked at her in confusion. "What does that even mean"? She asked. "It means this plant does not breed wrath. Instead this plant just wants a laugh". Zecora answered, but that only confused Apple Bloom more. "Okay, could someone please talk normal"? Twilight chuckled, realizing what Zecora was saying. "I think what she means is that when Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and I followed after Reiner and Bertholdt, we ran into the poison joke". Twilght stated before turning to the two stallions. "And when we left, you guys walked through it on our way back to Sugarcube Corner. All our problems are just little jokes it played on us". Zecora nodded. "That is quite correct my little pony". the zebra smiled. "Okay, so how do we fix this"? asked Reiner. "I need a few items to make a brew, that fix you up in no time". "Alright, well what is it you need?" asked Bertholdt. "Freshwater from a river, Honey from a beehive, Leaves from an oak tree, and a Patch of blueberries". Zecora told them. Twilight nodded. "Okay, will get those, and be right back". With that, the four ponies left Zecora's hut. They stood in silence for a bit before Twilight spoke up. "Okay so we need freshwater, honey, oak tree leaves, and blueberries. Now who's going to get which item"? "Well I can't get the honey, because I'm extremley allergic to bees". Apple Bloom stated. The group ponderd for a bit before Reiner finally thought of something. "Okay, Bertholdt and I will get the honey, and the fresh water, while Twilight, and Apple Bloom you two get the oak tree leaves, and the blueberries". The other three nodded in agreement to Reiner's plan and then split off to get their respective items. Back at the golden oak library, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy returned. They we're hoping to convice Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom to join them in driving out Zecora, but when they arrived they noticed that the four ponies where gone, leaving only Spike behind. "Spike where's Twilight"? asked Rainbow Dash. "And Reiner"? asked Rarity. "And Berthodt" asked Fluttershy. "And Apple Bloom"? asked Applejack. "They went to Zecora's place". Spike told them. "WHAT"! They all shouted in shock. "Oh no! Who knows what kind of curse is being put on them right now"! exclaimed Rarity. "Well I for one ani't gonna wait to find out, we have to get to Zecora's and fast". Applejack stated as she hoped onto Rainbow Dash's back. "Giddy-up pony"! Applejack ordered. Something Dash took great offense too. "Ex-CUSE me"? she asked as she was lauched outside the door, Rarity, Pinkie, and Fluttershy following close behind, and once again leaving Spike alone. Back in the Everfree Forest, Reiner was collecting water from a river and putting it into a bucket. Meanwhile Bertholdt was in the air, scanning trees for beehives. Finally he spotted one. "Reiner, there's a hive in that tree right there". he pointed. The two of them walked over to the tree and looked up at the hive. "Okay, time to get the honey". Reiner said. He then pulled out some kind of devices with a fan. Before they had left, Zecora had given him and Bertholdt a special pump that would shoot gas to temporarly knock the bees out. Reiner then sprayed it using all of his strength. Once the bees we're out, Bertholdt went up to collect the honney. "Okay got it". he called to Reiner. "Good, now lets get back to Zecora's". Reiner stated as he and Bertholdt went back to the hut. Elsewhere in another part of the forest, Apple Bloom was shaking the leaves off of low hang branch of an oak tree and putting them into Twilight's saddle bag. "Alright, now let's go find the blueberries". Twilight said as she pulled out a map that Zecora had given her and Apple Bloom. "I've never been this far into the forest before, even when my parents took me in order to collect materials Zap Apples". Apple Bloom stated. This caused Twilight to give her an uneasy look. (PFmeldey Plays) "Um Apple Bloom"? "Yeah Twilight"? Twilight gulped, unsure of how to ask this question, but she gathered her coruage and asked anyway. "Where are your mom and dad"? Apple Bloom paused before looking down. "They're gone". she answered. "Oh, sorry I brought it up". Twilight replied feeling guilty for talking about something that had to be a senstive subject for Apple Bloom. "It's fine, hey I'm willing to answer any questions you have". Apple Bloom said reassuringly. "Oh". Twilight smiled. She then thought of a question to ask, and came up with something. "I guess I'd like to know, which one of them did you get along the best with, because I know there are some foals who get along with their mothers best, and others who get along better with their fathers, where do you stand on that"? Twilight asked. Apple Bloom thought for a bit before replying. "Well, Applejack defenitly got along the best with Ma, and Big Mac had a better realtionship with Daddy, but for me. I'd have to say both of them. I remember, my mother and I would bake together in the kitchen, all kinds of deserts and pastries, and daddy would let me watch him buck trees to get their apples, telling me that I too would do that one day". Twilight smiled, as Apple Bloom kept telling stories of memmories of her parents. She was so intriqued by them that she didn't notice that they found a blueberry bush, but Apple Bloom did. "Hey there's a bush"! she called out. Twilight noticed it and smiled. The two of them gathered the blueberries and made their way back to Zecora's. Meanwhile, at Zecora's the others had made it and we're looking inside, where Rarity was able to catch a reflection of herself. "Ugh I look horrible". she complained. "Plis place plooks horrible"! Pinkie Pie stated, causing Rarity to take a closer look. "Oh my, you're right Pinkie, this place does look horrible". Rarity said before eyeing the mask that we're around the hut. "Nice decorations, if you like creepy"! The ponies then gasped when they noticed Zecora mixing something into a coldron. "Sthe sthtole my sthong! Shthe shtole mm mm"! Pinkie exclaimed. "She stole your song"? asked Rarity. "Ugh Pinkie that sounds nothing like your song". Rainbow Dash pointed out causing Pinkie to frown. She then threw herself at Fluttershy and gave her a pleading look, causing Fluttershy to sigh and start singing the song. She's an evil enchantress And she does evil dances And if you look deep in her eyes She will put you in trances Then what would she do? She'll mix up an evil brew Then she'll gobble you up In a big tasty stew Soooo... Watch out. Rarity looked inside. "Twilight and the others had to have seen this". she stated. then she gasped when she and the others heard Zecora speak. "Mmm! The perfect temperature for ponies, I presume. Now, where are those four". Rarity gasped. "She's making soup out of our friends"! she exclaimed She, Pinkie, and Fluttershy all screamed in horror, while Applejack force Rainbow Dash to break down the door. "I'm comin' for ya, Apple Bloom"! The ponies bursted through the door shocking Zecora. "Whoa there. Easy, Rainbow Crash". Applejack stated before leaping on the Zecora. "What have ya done with our friends"! she demanded confusing Zecora. Pinkie Pie then came in and knocked over the coldron, greatly shocking Zecora. "No! No! You do not know what you have done". The zebra cried out. "We're on to you Zecora"! Rainbow Dash stated. "You made me look ridiculous". Rarity shouted. "You made me sound ridiculous". Fluttershy added. "You made me speak ridiculous". Pinkie Pie spat. "You ruined Twilight's horn, made Reiner old, and did something strange to Bertholdt's wing"! Rainbow Dash finished. All these accuasations only succeded in making Zecora even angrier. "How Dare you You destroy my home, destroy my work, then rudely accuse me of being a jerk". she retorted, but Rainbow Dash was unfazed. "You put this curse on us, now you're gonna uncurse us". she stated. It is unwise to venture down this road. Your actions will make my anger explode! Zecora scolded. "Where are our friends. Rainbow Dash demaned, before she was intterupted by a voice. "Zecora we got the stuff". Everyone turned to see Twilight, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Berthodt standing in the door way looking confused. "What's going on here"? asked Reiner. Applejack noticed them and sighed in relief. Ya'll are okay!. "Yeah, why wouldn't we be"? asked Berthodt. "Because Zecora is an evil enchantress who cursed us and was gonna cook you up into soup"! Rainbow Dash accused. This caused Zecora and the four other ponies to start laughing. "Oh girls, I told you there was no such thing as curses". Twilight stated. Rainbow Dash looked at her in confusion. "Twilight look at us. You can't just say this isn't a curse"! "Alright, I won't, but she will". Twilight said pointing to Apple Bloom who walked past Rainbow Dash. "This isn't a curse". Reiner then explained. "You see, that blue patch of plants we stepped into, they're called poison joke, and everything that happend to us we're just little jokes it played on us". "Little jokes?! Very funny". Applejack stated in annoyance. Rainbow Dash sighed after hearing this. "Okay fine, but what about the coldron". she asked "And the chanting"? asked Fluttershy "And the creepy decor"? asked Rarity. "Treasures of the native land where I am from. This one speaks 'hello', and this 'welcome". Zecora explained. "Not welcoming at all if you asked me. Rarity stated". "The words I chanted were from olden times. Something you call a nursery rhyme". Zecora explained again. "But still, the soup"? Rainbow Dash asked asked Apple Bloom walked up to her "Lookie here Dash, that pot of water wasn't for us, it was for all these herbal ingredients. The cure for poison joke is a simple old-natural remedy. You just gotta take a bubble bath". Twilight then spoke up. "That is one thing that does confuse me, because I looked all over for a cure and couldn't find one in any of my books". Zecora smiled and took out the book Twilight was looking for, which was too her shock the same one Spike had shown her. "Here is the book, you see? Sad that you lack it in your library". " Actually, I do have this book, but I didn't look inside because the title was so... Weird". Twilight stated before looking down in shame. "I...I... I'm so sorry, Zecora. I had the answer the whole time, if only I had bothered to look inside". Twilight apolgoized, causing Zecora to chuckle. "Maybe next time you will take a second look, and not judge the cover of the book". Rarity then looked over to Zecora. "Zecora? Would you be kind enough to mix up another batch of the herbal bath"? she asked. Zecora nodded. "Mix it up I certainly will. Yet I am missing an herb from Ponyville". "But whenever she comes into town, the shops are all closed for some reason". Said Apple Bloom. "I think we can help with that". Twilight stated. Walking back into ponyville, the eleven ponies we're spotted by the flower ponies. "Look Rose! How awful"! Daisy exclaimed "The wicked enchantress has cursed them all". Rose cried out. "The horror, the horror"! shouted Lilly, as everypony hid inside their houses, while the arriving ponies went up to the flower shop, and knocked on the door, causind Daisy to slowly open it. "Daisy, we need to talk". Said Reiner. About fiffteen minutes later The mane eight we're inside the bath, while Twilight was resiting her latest letter to Princess Celestian Dear Princess Celestia, My friends and I all learned an important lesson this week: Never judge a book by its cover. Someone may look unusual, or funny, or scary. But you have to look past that and learn who they are inside. Real friends don't care what your "cover" is; it's the "contents" of a pony that count. And a good friend, like a good book, is something that will last forever. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle Once Twilight was done. Lotus Blossom came up to Zecora. "Miss Zecora, I would love to get the recipe for this bath. It's simply luxurious"! It was then that Apple Bloom noticed that Applejack was missing. "Applejack! Where's Applejack"! They all began to panic and look for the orange earth pony until they heard her voice. "I'm right here little sis, I ain't tiny no more". Applejack stated. Rairty couldn't help but smile. "Oh! I have never felt so lovely in all my life"! Then Pinkie Pie spoke "Oh, my gosh! I never realized how horrible it is not to be able to talk. I mean I love talking so much, and when I couldn't talk anymore, my tongue was all 'ehhhh'! It was the worst Don't you agree, Fluttershy? "Yes" Fluttershy said, in her normal voice, and everyone laughed. That night, Reiner layed in his bed, thinking about his past. First he remember his comrades from the 104th. Then his mother talking to him, and how he trained to become a warrior. "We we're abandoned". His mother told him. "That's why we live in this walled ghetto", she contiued. "The devils blood flows through our veins. If we're not locked up then we'll bother everyone else. That's why your dad isn't here, because he's a Marleyan, and it's forbidden for Marleyans to love Eldians. His mother told him. "So this is a secret okay"? "Yes". Reiner Replied "We can't be with him, because we're eldians, decendents of the devil". "If only you we're born Marleyan. she whispered with tears in her eyes". That's right, I wanted to be a warrior in order to become an honrary Marleyan and live happliy with my Mother and Father (ArmyGo Plays) Later, Reiner was running through the rain with a bunch of other children. as a soldier on horse back was shouting at them. "Who told you to walk you filthy devils, get running"! "Damn. Reiner mutterd as one of the boys past him". "Marcel Galliard"! You pass! Next he was shooting targets, but kept missing, however Bertholdt was on point with the target. "Berthodlt Hoover! You pass" "Dammit"! Reiner complained. Reiner then found himself being flipped over by Annie. "Annie Leonhardt! You pass"! Next he was taking a written test. "Damn, Damn, Damn" he muttered. Once the test was over, Reiner held his breath, then he heard his name. "Reienr Braun! You pass"! A huge smile formed on Reiner's face as he rushed home to show his mother. "Mom! I was chosen as a warrior cadet"! "That's wonderful. Now we're only one step away from being honarary Marleyans". his mother smiled. "Yeah, I promise that one day, I'll inherit one of the nine titans". Reiner told his mother The next they, Reiner, Bertholdt, Annie, Zeke, Marcel, Porco, and Nova we're all in the field traning "Did you know that the pardis island operation will be happening in a few years"? asked Zeke "The time for us to inherit the Titans has come". "Huh"? asked Reiner. "The war with the south will be over soon, and we will be victourus. After that the time for us to be warriors will approrch. I heard that they'll be reorginizing the warrior unit as part of the army's new structure. Out of the seven of us. six will take the power of the Titans". Zeke explained. Hearing this caused Reiner to smile. "Yes. I did it, now I can become a Marlyean". Porco looked at him judgemently. "You didn't do anything" he told Reiner, causing the other boy to look up at him, as Porco continued. "You're clearly the weakest one out of all of us. If anyone is getting left behind, It's you". "What did you say". Reiner asked, his anger growing, and Porco contiued. "What are you good at exactaly? Are you strong? Smart? A good shot? A good fighter? No you're not, you're none of those, the only thing they saw in you, was that you're extremley loyal to Marley. I respect you for that. You always make sure to licking the captains boots. Yes sir I'll kill the island devils sir". Porco stated while mocking Reiner, causing the other boys anger to flare up as got into Porco's face. "Don't you know who lives on that island?! Demons who brought fear to the entire world"! Reiner exclaimed shocking Porco who stepped back "Woah"! "It's only a matter of time before they start killing us, unless we kill them first"! Reiner contiued. "Are you insulting are mission! Or, are you one of those remaining Eldian Restorationists who support King Fritz"?! Reiner asked. "Admit it! It's true! I'll report you to Captain Magath"! Reiner yelled, enraging Porco who reeled his fist back, and clocked Reiner in the face "What's the matter with you"?! Porco yelled at Reiner as Marcel ran up to them. "Porco Stop"! he exclaimed as he pulled his brother back, while Porco was still yelling at Reiner, who was now on the verge of tears. "Anyone here can say how much they hate that island! You can stay here and take care of the place by yourself for the next thriteen years". Porco said to Reiner who was crying now. "Damnit". Reiner muttered as Porco began to walk away. "Let's go". Porco said to Marcel "Sorry Reiner". Marcel whispered, as he and Porco left. Come as soon as he's done crying. Zeke said to Annie, and Bertholdt who had stayed behind. "I'm gonna catch another beating from Magath if you're late". Zeke told the three of them Bertholdt walked over to Reiner and helped him to his feet. "Reiner, stand". Reiner took Bertholdt's hand and stood up. "I need to be a Marlyean now. I can't wait thirteen years, I need to inherit one of the nine titan powers so that my mom and dad can be together". Reiner stated. "What do you mean"? asked Bertholdt "I can't say". Reiner replied. "We don't know who's going to have to wait yet. Porco doesn't decied who inherits a Titan, the Marleyan army does". Bertholdt informed Reiner. "But he's right. I'm at the bottom of the list". Reiner stated. "Are you sure"? because I think Loyalty is important. Wouldn't you agree Annie? Bertholdt asked the young girl, who turned around in confusion. "What was that? Sorry I wasn't paying attention". she admitted before leaving. "Come on". she said to the two boys, who followed after her, and kept talking. "But are you really okay with this"? asked Bertholdt. "What do you mean"? Reiner asked back "Well. You'd only get to enjoy life for thirteen years. Bertholdt stated. "But then I'd be a hero. If I can punish the devils of Paradis Island who strike fear into all of us, then I'd be able to save Eldia, no the whole world, and then. I'd make my parents the proudest ever". Reiner declared Elsewhere a young Eren Yeager with sitting in the crash looking up at a huge wall. "I wish something would happen". Eren said as Armin came running up to him. "There you are Eren"! Preview When Fluttershy discovers a strange new creature she quickly takes it to show her friends, but soon one creautre turns into many, and Ponyville is infested. To make matters worse. Princess Celestia is visting the town that day. Next Episode. Swarm of the Centruy. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Twilight Sparkle Spike Apple Bloom Bertholdt Hoover Reiner Braun Applejack Rainbow Dash Rarity Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Zecora Bright Macintosh (Flashback) Minnuette Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Dr. Hooves Goldengrape Daisy Rose Lily Valley Pear Butter (Flashback) Big Macintosh (Flashback) Lotus Blossom Sasha Braus (Flashback) Keith Shadis (Flashback) Connie Springer (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Thomas Wagner (Flashback) Sameul Linkie-Jackson (Flashback) Mina Carolina (Flashback) Ymir (Flashback) Historia Reiss (Flashback) Karina Braun (Flashback) Theo Magath (Flashback) Marcel Galliard (Flashback) Porco Galliard (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Zeke Yeager (Flashback) Pieck Finger (Flashback)
Episode 15: Swarm of the Centrury: Gala Arc Part 8On the outskirts of the Everfree Forest, Fluttershy and her animal friends where collecting flowers, now on a normal day, any flower would have been fine, but on this particular day, Princess Celestia was making a visit to ponyville, and Fluttershy knew that the flowers had to be extra special. "La, la la, la la, la la, la la". She sang as a squriel came up to her and presented a flower he had collected for her, causing the pegagus to smile. "Thank you little squirrel, but remember: these flowers are for Princess Celestia. Only the prettiest ones will do". Fluttershy told him, as she kept singing. "La, la la, la la, la la, la la". All of a sudden, she heard a chirp which caused her to jump behind the cart she had with her. She remained their until she saw what was making the chirping noise. It was a small, strange, yet super cute creature. "Oh, hello there little guy". Fluttershy said, unsure of what to make of this strange new creature. "I've never seen anything like you before". Fluttershy then noticed that the thing was sniffing the fruit in her basket, so she decieded to be nice and feed it. "Oh, are you hungry"? she asked. She then gave a small piece of fruit to the strange creature. It respondeded by devouring the whole basket shocking Fluttershy. "Oh my, I guess you we're hungry". she giggled. The creature then flew into Fluttershy's hair, and began to rest. Fluttershy couldn't help but smile at how adorable the creature was. "You're the cutest thing ever! I can't wait to show you to my friends". she said as she trotted off into town. At the Golden Oak, Twilight was rushing around trying to clean the place in order for it to be ready for Princess Celestia's visit. " Oh! Hurry up, Spike! This place isn't gonna clean itself". she told her dragon assiastant. "It also didn't mess itself up". Spike grumbled, Twilight however heard him and shot him a glare. "She'll be here tommorow"! She stated. "I thought this was just an unofficial casual visit". Spike said. "There's nothing casual about a visit from royalty. I want this place to be spotless, and you've barely made a dent in the clutter". Twilight retorted. Spike just groaned and contiuned. "Maybe you should, ugh, start reading them one at a time-- whoa ho! Aw". Spike had tripped and fallen over one of the many books Twilight had scattered across the floor, causing her to roll her eyes. "Everything's got to be perfect. No time for fooling around". Spike grunted as he got to his feet. "You know, this would be an awful lot easier if there weren't two of us here getting under each other's feet". Twilight smiled at Spike's idea and jumped to her hoofs. "Great idea. You clean, I'll go see how everyone else's preparations are coming". "That's not what I! Spike tried to protest but Twilight was already gone". (2chi Plays) Twilight trotted through Ponyville, so far everything was looking well for Princess Celestia's visit, as she walked admiring the decarations she heard a voice call out to her. "Good morning Twilght". Twilight turned and saw Reiner Braun walking up to her. "Oh, hello Reiner, how are you doing"? Twilight asked. "I'm fine." Reiner replied, "What are you doing out". he then asked. Twilight smiled. "I'm just checking to make sure everything is perfect for Princess Celestia's visit" she responded before asking "Do you wanna help". "Sure thing". Reiner replied. The two of them walked through the town, spotting Apple Bloom working on a drawing for the visit. Reiner walked up to her and put his hoof on her shoulder. "That's a nice drawing". he compliemeted. Apple Bloom, not knowing Reiner was even behind her yelped in suprise, before grabbing Reiner's hoof, and then flipping him onto his back, causing Reiner to groan in pain. Once Apple Bloom realized what she did, she gasped in suprise. "Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry Reiner, but you should know never to sneak up on a girl like that"! Apple Bloom scolded. "Dully noted". Reiner groaned. Apple Bloom gave him a small smile. "I'll go get you an icepack", she said before trotting away. "Thank you". Reiner groaned again, as Twilight walked over to him, chuckling. "You okay". she asked. Reiner groaned as he stood up. "Yeah". "Apple Bloom's right you know. You should never sneak up on ponies, especialy a girl". Twilight stated just as Apple Bloom returned with an icepack for Reiner, who put it on his forhead. "So what are y'all doing anyways". Apple Bloom asked. "We're just checking on preperations for the Princess's visit tommorow". Twilight explained. "Wanna help". she asked. "Sure I'm pretty much done here". Apple Bloom responed as she let the two older ponies look at her drawing. Twilight and Reiner stared at it, and their jaws dropped and how detailed and accruate it was". "Apple Bloom". Twilight began. "This is amazing, I never knew you we're such a talent artist". Apple Bloom blushed. "Aww, thanks Twilight". "Well then, let's go see how everyone else is doing". Twilight stated. The three ponies walked through the park admring all the hardwork everypony was doing. Apple Bloom in particular was excited to see everyone working so hard and felt honored that Twilight asked her to help out. Twilight and Reiner too we're glad to see everything seemed to be going smoothly, that was until Twilight saw the welcome banner hung up by Golden Harvest and Berry Punch. It didn't take long for Twilight to notice something was wrong as she walked over to the two mares. "What happened to the rest of her name"? Twilight asked. "We couldn't fit it all in". Golden Harvest explained Twilight frowned at that excuse. "You can't hang up a banner that says welcome Princess Celest! Take it down and start over". Twilight demanded. Reiner in the meantime walked over to Bon Bon who was watering flowers. "That looks amazing, keep up the good work". he complemeted. Eventually the three of them made their way to Sugarcube Corner to check on the baking. "Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Cake. How's the banquet coming". Twilight asked. "Oh it would be coming alot better if" Mrs. Cake explained before pointing over to Pinkie Pie who was eating all the deserets. "Pinkie! What are you doing? Those sweets are for Princess Celestia"! Reiner exclaimed. I know. That's why I'm tasting them. Somepony needs to make sure that everything is tasty enough to touch the royal tongue, and I, Pinkie Pie, declare that these treats are fit for a king, or a queen, or a princess! Pinkie explained causing Reiner to roll his eyes. They were then intterupted by Fluttershy's voice. "Twilight, Pinkie, Apple Bloom, Reiner, you'll never believe...." Fluttershy stopped and looked down sheepishly. "Oh sorry, am I intteruping something"? She asked shyly. "Not at all, come on in"! Pinkie Pie smiled. Fluttershy smiled back and got a very excited look on her face. "You'll never believe what I found at the edge of the everfree forest. Come on out little guy". As Fluttershy said this, the creature popped out of her fur, but it was then followed by four others, shocking Fluttershy. "Five"? Twilight and Apple Bloom looked at the creatures in aww. "They're amazing. What are they"? asked Twilight. "I'm not sure, I also don't know where these other four came from". Fluttershy explained. "I'll take one off your hooves. I've never seen anything so... adorable". Twilight said as she hugged one of them, before chuckling nervously. "Besides, it'll be nice to have a companion for Spike so he won't bother me so much while I'm studying". "I'd like one too. They look absoultley precious". Apple Bloom stated as one landed onto her hoof". Fluttershy looked over to Reiner and Pinkie Pie. "How about you two"? she asked. "Sure, why not it might be interesting to have one of these little guys around". Reiner replied. Pinkie Pie however wasn't as thrilled as the others seemed to be. "Ugh a parasprite! Are you kidding". she exclaimed in disgust. "Ugh"? asked Fluttershy in confusion. "A Para what"? asked Twilight. "How could you not like"? Fluttershy began only to be intteruppted by Pinke Pie as she left sugarcube corner. "Now I have to find a trombone"! she stated. "A what". asked Reiner. "A trombone, you know" Pinkie Pie then began to imitate the sound of said instrument. "Why do you need a trombone"? Apple Bloom asked, but Pinkie Pie was already long gone. Twilight sighed. "Ahhh, typical Pinkie". She then turned to Apple Bloom, and Reiner. "I'm gonna go check on Rarity and see how she's doing with the dresses". She told them "Okay, bye Ms. Twilight". Apple Bloom waved At the Carousel Botique Rarity was trying to fit Rainbow Dash in a dress, but the pegagus wasn't willing to hold still, and wanted to do anything else besides be fittied for a dress. With them was Bertholdt Hoover who was wearing a tan colored suit, and tie. "Stand still, Rainbow Dash". Rarity ordered "I cannn't, I need to flyyy. This is wayyyy toooo boring for me". Dash complained. "You didn't hear Mr. Hoover complaing now did you"? Rarity questioned. Rainbow Dash just groaned as Bertholdt chuckled when Twilight walked in through the door and noticed the dresses, a smile forming on her face. "Wow. Rarity, those outfits are gorgeous". Rarity smiled at Twilight's complement. "Thank you Twilight it's nice to know that at least two ponies appreciates my talents". Rarity stated shooting Rainbow Dash a glare. "Ugh sooooooo Booooring" Dash complained. All of a sudden the creature that Twilight got from Fluttershy chirpped and came out of Twilight's fur with 3 others in tow, confusing the mare. "Wow, what are they"? asked Rainbow Dash. "The better question is, where did they come from? I only had one a minute ago". Twilight explained. " Uh, I'll take one". Rainbow Dash offered. "Me too, oh, they're perfect". Stated Rarity. "How about you Bertholdt"? asked Twilight. Bertholdt thought for a bit, as he looked at one of the creatures. "Sure, I'm pretty sure if I didn't, I'd regret it later" the stalion said when Pinkie Pie walked in. "Does anypony know where I can find an accordion"? she asked only to be ignored. "Um you guys? Hello". Currently Publicly Avalible Imformation Parapristes. Small adorble little flying insects who despite they're cute features are known to mutilpe very quickly and eat anything in site. Apple Bloom trotted through the town, still admiring all the hardwork everypony was doing to ensure that Princess Celestia's vist was special, but then her mind went back to what happened at sugarcube corner. "Now I need a trombone"!. "What would Pinkie Pie need a trombone for, and why did she have such a negative attitude to the cretures"? Apple Bloom pondered this for a while, until she felt herself bump into to someone, who took her out of her thoughts with a shocked. "Woah Nelly"! Apple Bloom looked up, and was greated by the curious look of her older sister Applejack. "Oh, sorry Applejack, I didn't see you there". Apple Bloom explained. Applejack raised her eyebrow, and gave Apple Bloom a look. "Ya alright their Apple Bloom"? she asked. Apple Bloom was confused by Applejack's question. "Yeah, why wouldn't I be"? "Because you seemed to be lost in thought, and I know you. You always pay attention to your surrondings unless you're really thinking hard about something". Applejack explained. Apple Bloom sighed. "Yeah I guess I am lost in thought". "You wanna tell me what's on yer mind". Asked Applejack. "Okay, look what Fluttershy gave me". Apple Bloom said as she looked up at her hair. That was when not one, but four of the creautres came out, shocking the little filly. Applejack was shocked as well. "Apple Bloom, what are these things". "I'm not sure, but I do rememebr Pinkie Pie calling them........... Parasprites". And Fluttershy gave you four of them? asked Applejack. "She gave me one". Apple Bloom explained. Then she remembered the same thing happened with Fluttershy. "When Fluttershy came to show them to Twilight, Reiner, Pinkie Pie, and I she also claimed that she only origninally had one, but then one became five, and now I took one, and it became for, so that's one thing we can learn about these creatures, is that they can multiplie very quickly, question is how though"? "That's a question for later, right now we're going to have to figure out a place to keep them, if that's alirght with you". Asked Applejack. Apple Bloom nodded. "You know another thing that confused me, was that Pinkie Pie said she needed a trombone". Apple Bloom stated. "Why woud she need a trombone"? asked Applejack. "I don't know, just Pinkie Pie being Pinkie Pie I guess". Apple Bloom answered The two Apple Siblings bursted out laughing as they headed for Sweet Apple Acres That night, Twilight finally returned home after checking on all the preprations for the visit tommorow. "The decorations, the banquet, I really hope everything comes together in time for tomorrow". "She looked at Spike snoring, and then at the creature and gave a small smile. "Oh, what can go wrong". The next moring Twilight awoke to find a startling suprise waiting for her. The creature had mutiplied again, and now this time, instead of four, their were at least a hundred flying around her house. "Spike! Wake up! What happend!? Twilight asked in a panic. Spike looked around in complete shock "Huh? Whaaa! What's going on"? "Where did they all come from"? asked Twilight. "I don't know. The little guy got hungry in the night, so I gave him a snack, but... I have no idea where these others came from". Spike answered before noticing that they we're making a mess of the libaray all over again. "Oh no they're ruining all my hard work"! He complained while Twilight herself looked around in a panic. "The princess will be here in a few hours! Spike help me round them up"! she exclaimed. "Ugh, what does it look like I'm doin"? Spike asked before once again falling off the ladder. "Ooow, waaah! D'oh. I know, I know, stop fooling around". At her home cloud home, Rainbow Dash was awoken by the sight of serveal of the creatures. No matter how hard she tried to escape they just kept flying around her. Meanwhile in their house, Reiner and Bertholdt we're doing the best they could to keep the creatures in check. "Why did we agree to take two of them"? Bertholdt asked rhetoricly. On Sweet Apple Acres, the creatures we're contained in a giant enclousers as per Apple Bloom's sugestion. She stood their with Applejack, the two of them we're sweating but had smiles on their faces as Apple Bloom turned to face Applejack. "And you said this was going to be a waste of time when Daddy and I we're building it". Applejack just rolled her eyes, and smiled when all of a sudden Pinkie Pie came right out of nowhere and tackled Applejack to the ground. "Hi Applejack, Apple Bloom" the pink earth pony smiled. "Ugh, Pinkie Pie, what the hay are you doing"? asked Applejack. "Oh! I need a harmonica! Do you have a harmonica, oh please, oh please say you have one"! Pinkie praticly begged the orange pony. "Uh yeah, I do actually". Applejack said as she pulled one out, and gave it to Pinkie Pie. "Oh thank you thank you"! she said. "Um Pinkie, why do you need all these instruments"? asked Apple Bloom, but Pinkie Pie was already long gone. Unfourtenlty though, when she ran off Pinkie aciedently unlocked the gate keeping the creatures inside the enclourse, allowing them outside. Apple Bloom was able to jump out of the way in time before they came swarming, Applejack. Was not so lucky as they flew right by her, making her disy, and dazed. "Applejack, You okay"? Apple Bloom asked in concern. "Uh, I'll take a side order of fries with those Chicken Mcfingers". Applejack state in a daze. At her botique, Rarity was more or so accepting of the fact that the creatures had mutiplied, as they we're helping her with her work. "Not only are you adorable, but you're also quite useful". One of them came over and landed on Rarity's hoof, purring, but then it started to gag causing Rarity to become concerned. "Oh, are you alright". She asked it only for the creature to then throw up another one of itself right infront of Rarity, grossing her out. "Aaah! Eewwww! Aaah! Gross gross gross! No creature that behaves so revoltingly is allowed in my boutique"! Rarity exclaimed. The creature responed by once again vomiting another one, causing her to scream. As Rarity tried to round them up, Pinkie Pie suddendly came bursting through the door with a huge smile on her face. "Rarity look! Applejack gave me a harmonica"! She said in excitment before noticing the swarm. "And not a moment too soon"! she gasped. Rarity however was in no mood to hear about Pinkie's musical instrument. "Pinkie I'm a little busy at the moment". "And I'm not"? You know how many more instruments I've gotta find? a lot! that's how many. Now if we split the list between us, we might just make it in time". Rarity only rolled her eyes in response. "Pinkie I don't have time to take part in your little scavanger hunt I've got a real problem"! Rarity stated. "You've got a real problem, all right. And a banjo is the only answer"! Pinkie Pie responded. Rarity just walked away from Pinkie. Elsewhere, Twilight was rushing through the park with the creatures in her bag, when she saw Rarity, and gasped. Rarity herself stopped and walked up to Twilight. "I see you and I are having the same problem". Rarity stated. "Dito". They heard Rainbow Dash say as she flew by, with the things in hot pursuit. "Yeah, us two". Reiner said as he and Bertholdt came up to the group. "And you ani't the only ones". Applejack called out as she and Apple Bloom joined up with the others as well. "How could this have happened"? asked Apple Bloom. "Im not sure, but Fluttershy is an expert on animals. I'm sure she can figure out how to make them stop mutilplying". Twilight stated. So the group raced over to Fluttershy's cottage with the hopes of figuring out how to stop the spread of these creatures, but once they arrived, they saw that her house was infested with them. "Or, maybe not". Twilight muttered. The Parasprites kept swarming around the cottage as Fluttershy tried to gather them up. "Ugh Fluttershy do something! Can't you get them under control"! asked Reiner. "I've tried everything I know: I've tried begging, and pleading, and beseeching, and asking politely"! Fluttershy exclaimed. Twilight then had a vision of Princess Celestia arrving in ponyville and the parasptrties capturing her. "If we can't get them under control before the princess arrives, it'll be a total disaster". Another Parasprite went up infront of Rarity and once again through up in her face. "Ew! If you ask me, it's already a total disaster". "What do we do"? asked Fluttershy in a panic. They all thought for a moment, until Reiner came up with an idea. "I got it"! He exclaimed before turning to face the Apple Sisters. "Applejack, no one can herd like you". Rainbow Dash smiled at Reiner's plan. "Yeah! We can drive 'em back into the forest". she stated excietedly. Applejack thought for a bit, before nodding her head. Alright, I'll rastle 'em up, but I need everypony's help to do it. Twilight, you Reiner, Apple Bloom and Rarity wait over there. I'll herd the little critters straight at ya like a funnel. Rainbow Dash, you, Bertholdt, and Fluttershy stay on top of 'em, don't let 'em fly away. "Aye aye". Said Rainbow Dash "Yeeeeeee-haw"! Applejack exclaimed (進撃 st-hrn-egt20130629 巨人 Plays) Applejack charged towards a group of parasprites, getting them into one place. Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt did the same, and so did, Twilight, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Rarity until finally, all of them we're in a massive ball that the eight ponies starting rolling into the Everfree Forest. "Alright y'all, here goes nothin". Said Applejack before she noticed one was trying to fly out of the ball. " Look out Rarity, that one's fixin' to get away". Fourtently, Rainbow Dash prevented it from doing so. "Keep a lead on 'em, Rainbow Dash"! AJ called out, as the group got closer to the edge of the forest. "That's it! We're almost their"! Reiner pointed out. Twilight had a huge look of determantion on her face, but she was also relieved as well. "Is this really going to work, have we actually saved Princess Celestia's visit"? She thought. Twilight Smiled, thinking everything was going to work out, until she saw Pinkie Pie running right next to her. "Pinkie"? Twilight asked in confusion as she didn't know where the earth pony had even come from. "Twilight, we don't have much time". Pinkie stated. "You're telling me. The princess could arrive at any moment". Twilight responded. "Exactly. That's why I need you gals to drop what you're doing and help me find some maracas". Pinkie said, but that only succeeded in confusing Twilight even more. "Maracas? Pinkie, we've got much bigger problems than missing maracas". Pinkie gasped in shock, realizing that Twilight was on to something, she smiled. "You're right! Getting a tuba has to be our number one goal. Follow me". When no one follwed her, Pinkie Pie turned to face them. "I said follow me". "Pinkie Pie, you are so random". said Rainbow Dash. "And you are all so stubborn"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Forget her ladies. Focus. Head 'em up and move 'em out". Applejack stated. Apple Bloom was the only one who felt kind of bad for not listening to Pinkie Pie, but she knew she had to stay focus on the task she was helping with right now. Soon the massive ball of parasprites we're finally in the everfree forest, and they rolled far away. "Alright"! Rainbow Dash cheered, as she high hooved Bertholdt, and then Fluttershy. "Ouch". Fluttershy said meekley. Twilight, and Reiner both smiled at eachother, pleased that their work had paid off. "We did it! Nice work Applejack"! Reiner stated. "Yeah big sis, you we're amazing"! said Apple Bloom Applejack smiled sat her friends. "Couldn't a'done it without y'all". Twilight smiled as well, before turning to the others. "Now let's get back and clean up the mess they made before the princess arrives". The group walked back to Fluttershy's cottage, and the yellow pegasugs went to open the door, but when she did, another a swarm of parasprites came out, causing everyone to gasp. "Where did they come from"?! asked Bertholdt. They all looked over to Fluttershy, who had her head down in shame. "Well, I may have kept just one. Heh". Fluttershy chuckled nervously. "I couldn't help myself. They're just so cute". she explained. Twilight looked over at the swarm in a panic. "We don't have time to keep rounding up these things". She exclaimed. "Well what do we do"? asked Bertholdt. That was when Rainbow Dash flew up into the air. "We call in the weather patrol"! she proclaimed, and then proceeded to make a small sized tornado that began to suck up all the parasprites. "Time to take out the adorable trash. YAAAAAA"! "Way to go, Rainbow Dash"! Twilight called out. Soon all the parasprites had been sucked up by Dash's tornado, which was heading towards the Everfree Forest. "Looks like all our problems are solved". Applejack smiled, but everything changed when Pinkie Pie came back. "They will be with these cymbals". Unfourtenlty though, the wind was so strong, that it pulled Pinkie Pie's cymbals right away from her and into the tornado. "Hey! Give me those back"! Pinkie exclaimed. The cymbals flew into the Tornado, causing mayhame and breaking up Rainbow Dash's concetration. "Whoa. Yaa! Yow! Whoa! Wow! I can't hold it! She's breaking up". Dash called out. Soon enough, the tornado fell apart, and all the parasprites escaped into Ponyville. Was the shock of the situotion passed, they all glared at the Pink Earth Pony who was responsible for the mess. "Pinke Pie! What have you done"! exclaimed Reiner "I've lost a brand new pair of cymbals, that's what I've done. "Will you forget about your silly instruments for one second? You're ruining our efforts to save Ponyville"! Twilight scolded causing Pinkie Pie to gasp, insualted. "Me? Ruin? I'm not the ruiner, I'm the ruin-ee! Or is it ruiness? Ruinette? Applejack walked past her, looking towards the others. "Come on girls, there's no reasoning with that one. She's a few apples short of a bushel". The others began to move past Pinkie Pie as she kept trying to talk to them. "Hey! I'm trying to tell you all that the ruining is on the other hoof. If you'd just slow down and listien to me"! Apple Bloom was the only one who stopped and looked back at Pinkie. She really wanted to know why Pinkie Pie needed those instruments, and what was so important about them. Part of Apple Bloom wanted to walk over to Pinkie Pie, just to make her feel better, but she was stopped by Applejack calling out to her. "Let's go Apple Bloom". Apple Bloom heistated for a moment, before deceiding to turn around and go with the others, leaving Pinkie Pie alone. The group arrived in Ponyville, just in time to see the parasprites causing mayham, and distruction. "What do we do? They're eating all the food in town"! Fluttershy stated, as a swarm went stright to a basket of Apples. "My Apples"! Shouted Applejack. "We've gotta do something."! Shouted Twilight. She looked around, trying to think of something to do that could stop them, then a lightbulb appeared above her head. "I got it! I'll cast a spell to make them stop eating all the food". Using her magic, Twilight created the spell she was thinking off, and it seemed to worked, all the parasprites stopped eating the food just as Pinkie came over. "Look, tambourines! If you could all just..." But once again only Apple Bloom paid attention to Pinkie Pie, as the others were too busy gawking at the parasprites, wondering what they we're going to do next. One flew towards a basket with a single apple inside. Twilight watched in anticaption, wondering what it would do. To her relief, the parasprite sniffed the apple, and poked it's head in disgust. Twilight sighed in relief, until the parasprite opened it's mouth, and ate the basket, and soon all of them we're eating objects, instead of food. Twilight's spell had failed. Rainbow Dash glared at Twilight. "Heh, hey it worked, they're not eating to food". she said sarcastilcy "This is no time to be sarcastic Rainbow Dash". Reiner stated. "Yeah now they're eating the town, what do we do"? asked Bertholdt. They all stood in place for serveal mintues, until Apple Bloom finally spoke up. "Um guys". "Yeah Apple Bloom"? asked Twilight. Apple Bloom gulped, knowing that she was taking a big risk with her idea, but she felt as if might be the only one. "I think we should hear out Pinkie Pie". Apple Bloom stated Twilight looked at Apple Bloom in confusion, before speaking. "We don't have time with the princess arrving". Twilight was intterupted by Apple Bloom before she could finish her statment. "I know Princess Celestia is arriving soon, but I also remember that she sent you here to learn the magic of friendship, and one thing friends do, is listen to eachother. Even if what they're saying sounds silly, good friends would always hear eachother out, even if it doesn't seem important, and also no offense but you all we're pretty mean to Pinkie Pie early. I know she caused all this, but she didn't do it on purpose. To me it looked like she was trying to help. Everyone looked at eachother after Apple Bloom finshed, before Applejack sighed. "Apple Bloom is right, we weren't being good friends to Pinkie Pie". "But how can we find Pinkie, and protect the town"? asked Fluttershy. That was when Reiner came up with an Idea. "I got it, Bertholdt, Apple Bloom, and I will go ask Pinkie Pie why she wants those instruments, and the rest of you can try and figure out a way to stop these things". Twilight thought for a moment, before nodding her head. "Ok go find Pinkie while we try to do something". Rarity then noticed that the swarm was heading towards her botique. "Oh no... if they get inside my store... EVERYPONY FOR HERSELF"! she shouted as she ran into the store, just in time to see the parasprites eating all her fabric. "My outfits! Go on, shoo! Get out of here, you naughty! Naughty"! Just then Pinkie Pie came into the store with a recorder. "I'll save you"! she proclaimed as she started to chase the parasprites around the botique. That action however only caused Rarity more stress. Pinkie Pie did however manage to chase them out of the botique where she ran into Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt. "Pinkie Stop"! Apple Bloom called out to her. The pink earth pony did and turned to face the three. "What is it, can't you see I'm busy". Pinkie Pie stated. "Yes, we can see that, but we want to know what the big deal is". Said Reiner. "What do you mean?" asked Pinkie. "We mean why do you want to get all these instruments, what use could they possibly be in a time like this" Bertholdt questioned. Pinkie looked at them, and sighed. "I know what these things are, I've encounterd them before. "You have"? asked Apple Bloom. Pinkie Pie nodded and continued. "Five years ago, I lived on a farm, but it was a rock farm. One day I saw one of those things, and like all of you I thought it was the cutetest thing I've ever seen, and I just had to take it home, but I found out the hard way what those things we're capable off. It mutilpled and ate all our food, but luckily, my Granny Pie manged to figure out that music drives them out. If you plat certian instruments, then you can lead them away from your home". Pinkie Pie explained. "Why didn't you just tell us"? asked Reiner. "I did! You didn't listen"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Oh um, sorry about that." Reiner chuckled nervously. "Well anyways now you don't have to worry, because we're going to help you"! "Really! Thanks you three"! Pinkie exclaimed. Meanwhile at Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack, Big Mac, and Granny Smith were preparing for the oncoming swarm "No woodline critter is gonna devour the Apple Family crops". Applejack Stated just as the Parasptrites. "Brace yourself, y'all, here they come. The three of them prepared to defend their crops, but the swarm ingorned them, and litterly ate the barn. "Didn't see that one coming" Applejack stated. Back at the golden oak library Twilight arrived to see Spike being swarmed. "Help"! he called out as Twilight noticed what the parasprites we're doing to her books. "They're eating the words"! She exclaimed She then grabbed one and ran out the library once again leaving Spike. "Help". he said this time more meekly. "Twilight ran all the way to Zecora's hut just as she was in the middle of medatating. The noise of Twilight bursting through the door caused Zecora to break her concetration. "Have you gone mad". Zecora asked in annoyance, as Twilight came up to her and showed her the creature. "Zecora, these little guys are devouring Ponyville, and the princess is on her way. Can you help us, please"? Twilight begged. Zecora looked at he creature and gasped. "Oh, monster of so little size. Is that a parasprite before my eyes"? "I don't know is it"? asked Twilight. Zecora walked over to her pot and began to speak. "Tales of crops and harvests consumed. If these creatures are in Ponyville, you're doomed". Twilight gulped and ran back to town, but not before spotting Princess Celestia arrving. "Oh no, here she comes". Twilight made it back to town and saw all the destruction. Seeing this caused her to briefly snap. "Okay, here's the plan. Rainbow Dash, you distract them". Rainbow Dash flew by with a swarm chasing after her. "Good Everyone else, we need to build an exact copy of Ponyville right over there. we've got less then a minute". But as Twilight was about to set her plan into motion, she realized just how crazy it was. "Zecora was right, we're doomed". All of a sudden Twilight heard the sounds of instruments. "Oh no princess's procession is here. It's all over"! But Twilight soon saw that it wasn't the princess, it was Pinkie Pie, playing a bunch of instruments. Seeing those caused Twilight to get angry. "Pinkie? We're in the middle of a crisis here. This is no time for your..." but she stopped when she saw that Pinkie had gotten the swarm's attention. "Nonsense"? "Twilight"! Reiner called out. "Reiner, Bertholdt, Apple Bloom what's going on"? Twilight asked. "Just like I said, we needed to listen to what Pinkie Pie had to say, she knows what to do". Apple Bloom explained. They all followed Pinkie Pie just as Princess Celestia landed. "Look" said Twilight. Twilight, Applejack, Reiner, Rarity, Fluttershy, Apple Bloom, Rainbow Dash, and Bertholdt ran past Pinkie to meet up with the princess who greeted them with a smile. "Twilight Sparkle, my prized pupil". "Hello Princess". Twilight stated "So lovely to see you again, as well as your friends". Princess Celestia stated. "So... how was the trip? Hit much traffic"? Twilight asked nervously, but Celestia was too busy looking at the Parasptrites moving past as one flew up to her. "Ah, what is this? Oh ho ho, these creatures are adorable". "They're not that adorable". Rainbow Dash muttered. The Princess just Smiled before looking at the eight ponies before her. "I'm terribly honored that you and the good citizens of Ponyville have organized a parade in honor of my visit". "Parade"? Twilight asked in confusion before realaztion hit her. "Oh yes the parade". she chuckled nerously. "Unfortunately, that visit is going to have to wait for another time. I'm afraid an emergency has come up in Fillydelphia. Apparently there's been some sort of infestion". Princess Celsestia explained. "An... Infestation"? Reiner asked nerously. "Yes, a swarm of incredibly bothersome creatures has invaded the poor town. I'm sorry Twilight, to have to put you all through so much trouble". "Trouble what trouble"? Twilght chuckled as Celestia got ready to leave, but not before turning to Twilight. "Before I have to go, would you care to give me your latest report on the magic of friendship in person"? "My report"? Twilight asked. "Haven't you learned anything about friendship today"? asked Princess Celestia. "Twilight thought for a bit, before smiling. "Actually, I have. I've learned that sometimes the solution to your problems can come from where you least expect it. It's a good idea to stop and listen to your friends' opinions and perspectives... Even if they don't seem to make sense. Princess Celestia smiled. "I'm so proud of you, Twilight Sparkle, and I'm very impressed with your friends as well. It sounds like you're all learning so much from each other". "Thank you Princess". Said Twilight. Soon Celestia left, and the others went over to Pinkie Pie, and got her to stop. "Hey what happened to the Princess"? she asked. "Emergency in Fillydelphia". Reiner explained. "Some sort of. infestion. Rainbow Dash stated. "Oh no! Have they got parasprites too? Well, have tuba, will travel". Pinkie announced. "I think she can handle it. Twilight pointed out. So you knew what those critters were all along, huh Pinkie Pie? Applejack asked. "Well, duh! Why do you think I was so frantic to get my hooves on all these instruments? I tried to tell you". Pinkie explained. "We know Pinkie, and we're sorry we didn't consider listening, but then Apple Bloom told us that good friends always listen to each other". Twilight apolgized along with the others. "You're a great friend, even if we don't always understand you". Reiner stated. causing Pinkie to blush. "Thanks guys, you're all great friends too, even when I don't understand me". "You saved my reputation with Princess Celestia, and more importantly, you saved ponyville"! Twilight exclaimed, only to return and be greated to a destroyed ponyville. "Or not." Twilight sighed. It took a while, but eventually the town was repaired. Reiner was walking across town when he ran into Apple Bloom playing with a ball. "Good moring Apple Bloom". Reiner greeted "Good moring "Mr. Braun". Apple Bloom greeted back. "Where you going"? she then asked. "Oh I'm just going out for a walk, hey I never thanked you". "For what"? asked Apple Bloom. Well if you hadn't suggested it, Bertholdt and I probally wound't have considered listening to Pinkie Pie. Reiner explained. "Oh heh, thanks Reiner". Apple Bloom blushed. "Anyways I have to get going, you enjoy yourself". Reiner told the filly. "Okay, goodbye". Apple Bloom waved. Reiner kept walking through town, as another memory flashed into his head. "I know I'm going to have to return to that island one day". He thought to himself. Unknown Location. Year 845 (Attack on Titan Plays) The Armored Titan, and the Female Titan, ran across a large field. Both of them in the middle of helping out the Marlyean Army combat an enemy nation, as Theo Magath and General Calvi looked on. "Wonderful, they turned out much better then expected". Calvi pointed out as he stared at the Titan form of Annie Leonhardt, and began to analyize it. "The Female Titan. An all purpose unit. It is capable in every field. In addition to high mobilty and endurance. The Titan's hardening abilties combinded with Leonhardt's martial abilty make for an incredible destructive force. She's also able to summon Pure Titans, though her range is limited". The two men then turned their attention to Reiner. "As you can see, The Armored Titan is one that specializes in the hardening abilty. One slam from that body should be able to destroy both walls and gates. As a Titan who will act as Marley's shield and absorb attacks well, Braun's stoic nature fits the role. Calvi concluded. The ememy nation fired all they had at the two Titans, but one of their cannon's was destroyed by another one. This Titan was smaller then Annie, and Reiner, and had sharp teeth and claws. Calvi looked at it, and began discusing it. "The Jaw Titan is an assualt unit. It's small size makes it the fastest of all. It's powerful jaws, and claws can crush just about anything. We have entrusted it to the quick witted Marcel". Marcel began to use his Titan's namesake to use, and crushed all the cannons and guns. Seeing this, the enemy soldiers began to retreat, only to be stopped, when a bunch of projectiles we're thrown at them, crushing and killing them. Magath, and Calvi looked over at the source of the throw, another Titan, this one covered in fur. "The Beast Titan is the same as ever. It is a bit larger then the others, but that's far from all. It's pitching assualt makes it an unprecedented, awe-inspring weapon. But most impressively, is the power within his blood. Zeke Yeager has given us miracle". Magath and Calvi then turned their attention to the ocean, as another Titan rose out of it. This one was Small like the Jaw Titan, and seemed to be covered in some type of metal armor. "The Cart Titan, with it's unusually high endurance, is well suited for long missions. This allows us to equip it with armaments, expanding the variety of tactics at our disposal. Giving it to Pieck, who has shown strong judgement was surley the right move". Pieck put down a container on the grass, and ran off as fast as she could. Inside the container, was Bertholdt Hoover, who had a small cut on his finger, and was beginning his transformation. With in seconds, there was a huge explosion, and all the surronding area was destroyed by Bertholdt's Titan. "And finally, the Colossal Titan. It is a god of destruction. We hope that Hoover can handle it. I almost feel sorry for those island devils. That thing is going to show up one day, and start killing them". Calvi stated. Yes our new warrior unit is more powerful then it was in the past. Training them since infancy has paid off. Still though, I have doubts about the army's descion. Entrusting the mission to retake the Founding Titan to four children? That doesn't seem sane to me". Magath pointed out. "Oh? But those children just now, have crushed an entire nation before our eyes". Calvi stated. A few weeks after the battle with that nation, Magath was in a room with the warriors discussing with them their next mission. "The Beast Titan, and Cart Titan are to remain here and help defend the mainland aganist enemy nations, and therefore will not participate in this mission. So the plan to retake the Founding Titan will be carried out by the Jaw, Armored, Colossal, and Female Titans. Marcel, Bertholdt, Annie, and Reiner we live this to you". After Magath concluded and left, Porco walked up and pinned Reiner up against the wall. "It doesn't make any sense! You we're at the bottom of the list! Why would they pick you?! What did you do to get chosen"! Porco demaned. Reiner only smirked in response. "Doesn't this mean it was you at the bottom Pock"? Reiner retorted. Porco flew into a rage and went to swing at Reiner. "You Little"! But he was Stopped by Marcel. "Porco! Are you disobeying the army's orders". he asked before leading his brother away. "Sorry Reiner". Marcel apologized. The next the four warriors we're paraded throught the interment zone, as the eldians inside cheered for them. Reiner looekd around and spotted his mother in the crowed. He looked around a spotted a man leaving the parade, and decieded to follow him. Reiner found the man inside a kitchen, and began to speak to him. "Dad"? The man turned his head a little as Reiner continued. "I'm right aren't I. Mom worked in the barracks before I was born. That was when you met her, Karina Braun. I saw your face, and thought it might be you". When Reiner's father didn't answer Reiner continued by showing the man his armband. "Look. Mom and I have become honorary Marleyans. We're able to walk freely outside the wall if we ask permission. You and Mom, can now lived together". Reiner concluded. That statment caused the man to snap, as he turned to face his son. "Are you kidding me! That woman told you to come here didn't she?! So she could get revenge on me! Damnit, and she force her kid to become a warrior for all that? If they look into your orignis, my family is done for! You're trying to get me hanged aren't you! Well I'm going to run as hard as I can away from you. You and you're mother, you eldian devils"! With that the man walked into another room, and slammed the door shut. "Wait. Reiner tried to call out, before hearing the ships horn. "Oh, right. It's time to go". Reiner walked out and found his mother who took him aside. "Reiner, are you okay"? she asked in concern, but Reiner just looked her causing her to give him a reassuring smile. "I know you'll be able to complete your mission. And I'm sure your father is praying for your sucess too". She told her son, causing him to smile back With that, Reiner got on the boat with the others. As it started to leave, everyone on the doc began to cheer for them. "Our Chosen Eldian Warriors! Save Us From Those Island Devils! The crowed cheered. "That's right, It doesn't matter if I don't have a father. I'm a chosen warrior entrusted with the Armored Titan. I'll save everyone from the island devils, and become a hero to the world. Eventually the boat made it to the island, and the warriors got off with Magath who began to explain to them what they had to do. " This is the bordered of Paradis, Move south once the sun sets. From there, just follow the plan. The Marleyan army will anchor here at the full moon. Remember that as you carry out the plan to retake the Founding Titan". Magath told them "Yes sir"! they all said. "Now, Carry out your mission. Come back with the Founding Titan. All of you". Magath comammed That night, the four of them set off on their journey. They trotted on their horses for hours before stopping to set up camp in a field. "I guess we can't cover much ground at night huh". Marcel Chuckled. "Don't worry about it. It was overcast". Reiner reassured him. "I'm just glad we didn't run into any Titans, but is the king of the walls really not going to use the Founding Titan, even if the walls are destroyed. Asked Bertholdt. "Why would you bring that up now Berthodt? Marley's research is realible". Reiner stated. "Yes, there's no going back now. Tommorow, we're going to that wall, and". Marcel hesatatied to finish his statment, something Reiner took notice off. "What's wrong? Wait. Don't tell me you're having second thougts about killing those island devils! Have you forgotten what they've done to Marley, and us?! They are descendants of devils who trampled over the world and turned into a living hell! The world still lives in fear of them! We're here to represent that world. Chosen warriors meant to judge them for their actions". Reiner stated. Marcel just sat quitely for a moment before speaking. "Sorry Reiner". he muttered. "Huh"? Reiner asked in confusion as Marcel continued "You see... You weren't supposed to be chosen as a warrior in the first place.... But.... I influenced the army's opinion by putting you on a pedestal, and making my little brother look bad. I just, wanted to protect Porco from this hell we have to go through with the Power of the Titans. Please forgive me Reiner. Marcel begged. This only confused Reiner more. "Huh? Why are you apologizng"? Reiner asked. All of a sudden, the ground began to shake, as something rose up. Marcel quickly realizng what it was. "A Titan! Run"! The Titan spotted Reiner, and was just about to grab him when Marcel pushed him out of the way, and was caught instead. Reiner, Annie, and Bertholdt could do nothing but run, as Marcel was eaten alive by the Titan, all the while Reiner remebered back to his vow he made before the trip to the island "I'm a chosen warrior. Entrusted with the Armored Titan. "I'm gonna punish the island devils, and become the hero who saves everyone. With Marcel gone, Annie wants to abandon the mission, but Reiner is detirment to see it through, and will stop at nothing to prove that he is a warrior. Next Episode. The Door of Hope. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Fluttershy Twilight Sparkle Spike Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Apple Bloom Daisy Minnuette Derpy Hooves Twinkleshine Golden Harvest Berry Punch Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Shoeshine Goldengrape Amethyst Star Pinkie Pie Mr. Cake Mrs. Cake Rarity Berthodt Hoover/Colossal Titan Rainbow Dash Applejack Princess Celestia Igneous Rock Pie (Flashback) Cloudy Quartz (Flashback) Maud Pie (Flashback) Limestone Pie (Flashback) Marble Pie (Flashback) Big Macintosh Granny Smith Zecora Annie Leonhardt/Female Titan (Flashback) Theo Magath (Flashback) Calvi (Flashback) Marcel Galliard/Jaw Titan (Flashback) Zeke Yeager/Beast Titan (Flashback) Pieck Finger/Cart Titan (Flashback) Porco Galliard (Flashback) Karina Braun (Flashback) Reiner's Father (Flashback) Ymir (Flashback)
Episode 16: The Door of Hope: Gala arc Part 9 (Vc-pf2013 Plays) Reiner ran as fast as he could. He kept running for God knows how long, his legs we're getting tired, and he was loseing his breath. Evenutally he stopped next to a single tree and began to process what had just happened. "Annie, Bertholdt"...... Marcel". Reiner remembered back to what Marcel did earlier. He got eaten by a Titan, just to protect me. Here? Is this where I die? Did everyone get eaten because of me? What the hell happened? My mind is blank. What should I do"? Reiner began to panic, thinking it was over for him, and he was about to die next, he could do nothing but scream in anquish until someone came up to him and kicked him in the stomach, causing Reiner to look up and see Annie standing over him, with Bertholdt a few feet behind her. "Not bad, that's the first time you've ever beaten me in a foot race". Annie complemented before looking up. "If we had stayed, we could have captured that Titan that ate Marcel, and we would have still had the Jaw Titan. But you two ran away like cowards, and I didn't know what to do either, so I followed after you. Goddamnit! He's not coming back now". She Continued Reiner looked at her in confusion. "But there weren't supposed to be any Titans yet. Magath said they'd be closer to the wall". Reiner stated. "Not all of them". Bertholdt mentioned. Reiner and Annie turned to face him as Bertholdt continued. "It's not like every Titan is going to act exactly according to plan. Don't you remember learning that". He asked Reiner. Annie sighed, turned around, and starting walking away. "Enough. Let's go back. She told them", confusing Reiner. "Huh"?. he asked, whiched caused Annie to slightly turn and look at him. "We'll find the Jaw Titan, and go back home. The Titan that devoured Marcel has most likley turned back into a human by now, and is somewhere wondering on the island. Plus It's not like we can continue the mission to retake the Founding Titan without Marcel's leadership. Face it Reiner, the plan is a failure. Besides, this place isn't safe either, a Titan could show up at any moment". With that, Annie began walking away, with Bertholdt following close behind her, leaving Reiner alone to process what Annie had just said. All of a sudden, his mind flashed back to what his mother had said before they left "I know you'll be able to complete your mission. And I'm sure your father is praying for your sucess too". Remembering the promise he made to his mother Reiner called out to his friends. "Wait"! Annie and Bertholdt turned around to look at him. "No. We can't go back. We'll contiune the plan". Reiner told them. Berthlodt and Annie paused for a moment, before the girl spoke up. "True. You can't go back like this". she stated, confusing Reiner. "If you go back to Marley now, they'll strip you of the Armored Titan for this disgrace. The next warrior will eat you. Not that it makes any differance to me". Annie told Reiner, who just stared at her before countering. "And are you sure that only I'll lose my Titan"? he asked. "Hm"? asked Annie. Are they only going to hold me responsible for the three of us running away? Are you two compltely certain that you'll escape punishment"? He asked. Annie and Bertholdt just stared at Reiner as he continued. "Besides going after the Jaw Titan is a bad idea. What if the person who obtained the power uses it to escape from us"? "How could someone learn to use a Titan's power that fast". asked Bertholdt. "Are you serious?! Bertholdt, you mastered how to use the Colossal Titan in no time! Anyway if screw up chasing after the Jaw Titan and use up our Titan powers here, well just end up getting eaten! And if we show up at the boat with nothing but this fiasco, we'll be done for anway"! Reiner explained When niether of his friends responed, Reiner continued. "If we ever want to go back to our hometown, we need results. We need the Founding Titan. We can't go back without it". After a few moments, Annie finally spoke. "You know, if you had been a hundredth that composed a minute a go, we wouldn't have lost the Jaw Titan or Marcel. So you plan to put us in danger, just to save your own skin"? "I don't know, I just". Reiner began before Annie kicked him in the face super hard, shocking Bertholdt. "Annie"?! he yelled out in shock as the girl began to rant while kicking Reiner to the ground. "Then you explain the Magath! SAY IT WAS ALL MY FAULT! Honorary Marleyan! Chosen Warrior! Who gives a damn! Marley, Eldia, they can all go to hell! They're all liars! Every single one of them! They only ever think about themselves! And you know what? I'm the same. I need to get home alive! You were supossed to die a minute ago right? Well if you're feeling so ashamed about it, then die right now! TAKE THE BLAME AND DIE"! Annie screamed as she kicked Reiner until his face was battered and bloddy. Bertholdt all the while just stood there silently, tears streaming down his face as he had watched his friends fight. Once she was done beating Reiner, Annie turned and began to walk away, only for Reiner to stand up, and lunge at her, bringing Annie to the ground and putting her in a chokehold. "Reiner's Dead. If you need Marcel........ Then I'll become Marcel". Reiner stated as Bertholdt just watched on. "Please. Just stop". He begged the two of them, as Reiner continued. "This, is the only way we can go home". Reiner.... We get it already". Bertholdt said. "Let's all get back to our hometown". Reiner finished as he got off of Annie who slowly stood up. "So, are we going to complete our mission"? he asked her. Annie simply nodded her head. "Stand back". she told them. Reiner and Bertholdt did as she ordered. After moving back Annie bit onto her finger and transformed into the Female Titan. (進撃st-hrn-gt-pf20130629巨人 Plays) Once in her Titan form, Annie grabbed Reiner and Bertholdt, and proceeded to place them on her shoulders. She then began running, letting out an extremeley loud scream in the process. That scream had manged to grab the attention of hundreds of pure Titans who began to pursue the Female Titan who kept running. Annie kept running for god knows how long, and it was begining to have a toll on her. "Reiner! She's running out of stamina"! Bertholdt stated. "I know"! Reiner replied as he looked back and saw the Titans getting closer. Damnit they're about to catch up. Are we still not to the Wall yet? The plan was for the Female Titan, and Jaw Titan to switch out durning the transport, but with Marcel gone Annie's doing it all on her own. She must have hit her breaking point a while ago, but the plan can't succeed if we wear down the Armored Titan". Reiner began to ponder what they should do, when Bertholdt noticed something in the distance. "I see It! The Wall"! he pointed ahead of them. Sure enough, there in the distance was Wall Maria. "Annie let's switch out now"! Reiner told her. So Annie left her titan form, and Reiner transformed into the Armored Titan and ran the rest of the way to the wall. Once there, he placed Bertholdt down infront of the closed gate. There are more Titans then we expected. We've got to hurry. We're counting on you Bertholdt". Reiner thought He then took Annie, and moved far away from the area. Bertholdt in the meantime stared up in wonder at the height of the wall, and began to ponder his next move. "So this is Wall Maria. It's huge, and we have to destroy it. Will I really be able to do it"? he wondered. Reiner meanwhile began to go through the plan in his head. Well destroy Wall Maria, and then make use of the chaos caused by the invading Titans to slip in with the population. After that, will track down the movements of Fritz. The king of the walls..... Then figure out a way to get the Founding Titan. It's all riding on wheather or not we can destroy the wall. While Reiner was in his thoughts. Bertholdt had transformed into his Titan. "We're counting on you Bertholdt". (Counterattack Mankind part 2 Plays) The Colossal Titan slowly rose up, and peered over the Wall, looking down into the town, and noticing tons of people staring up at him. Including three young children, who seemed a little younger then Him, Annie, and Reiner. The Colossal Titan then brought his massive leg back, and kicked a massive whole into the wall, sucessfully breaching it as Reiner looked on from his Titan. He did it. Bertholdt (Vogel Im Kafig plays) All of a sudden, the Titans that had been chasing them caught up and grabbed the Armored Titan, and tried to go for Annie as well. Reiner manged to break lose before noticing that one was heading for the downed Colossal Titan. Oh no! A Titan's heading for Bertholdt! Reiner ran towards Bertholdt, who turned around and noticed the Titan near walking towards him. However, the Titan ignored Bertholdt and walked into the hole he made just as Reiner grabbed Bertholdt and climbed to the top of the Wall, and placed Bertholdt and an unconscious Annie down on it as he began to remember why he became a warrior. "I wanted to become a warrior, because I thought it would grant my mother's wish to live with my father". Reiner began to climb down the wall and into the town. "But... I never had a father who felt the same way. My mother was always dreaming of something that would never come true". Reiner made his way through the town. Watching as countless civilians got eaten by Titans. Eventaully, he made his way to the inner gate, and began to charge towards it. "I was never supposed to become a warrior, and I wasn't supposed to surivive past today". Reiner then remembered how Marcel apologized to him. "Please forgive me Reiner" "Why did he apolgize? Why would he save someone like me"? Reiner pondered this for a moment before deciding it didn't matter. "No. I don't this to end here. I haven't changed anything yet". The Armored Titan bursted through the inner gate, destroying it, and making it possible for the Titans to invade Wall Maria. Afterwards, Reiner went back into the town and fetched Bertholdt and Annie, who was still unconscious, and they made their way into the next wall, with the other refugees. Currently Publicly Available Information About the Walls. Humanity lives surrounded by three walls. The outermost wall is Wall Maria, the second is Wall Rose, and the centermost wall is Wall Sina. The Walls are separated from one another in roughly equal intervals. There is a distance of about 100 kilometers between Maria and Rose, and there are about 130 kilometers between Rose and Sina. From Sina, it's about another 250 kilometers to the center of the interior. Annie awoke to find herself laying on a blanket in what looked like some kind of shelter. She turned to see Reiner and Bertholdt next to her. "Where are we"? she asked. "Inside Wall Rose". Bertholdt replied before looking down in shame. "Annie, Bertholdt, I'm sorry" he apologized. He then remembered his late friend as he pulled to two of them into an embrace. "Marcel. I promise to become a true warrior". Sometime Later, Reiner, Annie, and Bertholdt found themselves talking to a man who was the sole survivor of the Titan attack on his town. "My village was located in the mountains southeast of Wall Maria. Unlike the thriving riverside towns, we didn't recive word about the breach until later. Infact, the Titans got to us first. It was around dawn. The livestock were getting extremley restless. I heard these strange rumbling sounds getting closer and closer. That was when I realized they we're the sounds of footsteps. So I went and opened my window". A flashback shows the man looking out his window, and a Titan pearing inside. "I don't really remember what happened afterwards, but somehow I manged to escape on my horse. Leaving three kids behind, who we're just about your age". the man finished. A few days later, the man was found dead. Hanging from a tree as other people looked at his corpse. "Wasn't he the only survivor from that villiage"? someone asked. "What village"? asked another person. "Oh I forgot the name of it. That tiny setllement right? The one that's not even on the maps"? the first person replied. "We should cut him down". Someone else stated. Two Years Later, Reiner, Annie, and Bertholdt found themselves working in a garden, and had just figured out a massive secret about the king. "Oh, so the king is just a figurehead"? asked Annie. "Not only the old man, it's apparently an entirely different family. They're all puppets without any shred of authority. But they're probably not Subjects of Ymir. The people ruling from the center of the walls are most likley a diffrent race of Eldians who sucked up to Fritz a hundred years ago. Because there was no need for the Power of the Founding Titan, So he gave them power in exchange for their silence and loyalty"? Reiner Question. "Then we just need to get inside that family. They must have a connection to the true king of the walls". Bertholdt stated. "How do we do that? get them to hire us as servants or something? Or do you want me to get close to one of the men in the family and marry into it"? asked Annie. "No you can't do that". Bertholdt exclaimed. "You're right I can't. They're able to stay in a seat of power because they're not subjects of Ymir. they'd never risk infecting their family tree with tainted blood. And ever since the Wall was breched, they haven't hired new servants out of concern about invaders. Plus. I don't have the kind of charm it takes to seduce a man". Annie stated. "That's not true"! Bertholdt yelled, confusing Annie. "Um..... Thanks"? Reiner, having heard enough then spoke up. "That means. We only have one option. Become soldiers and get close to the inteior military police". Annie, and Bertholdt looked at Reiner for a bit. "I know you don't want to hear this from me. But it's taken us two years to learn this much". Annie stated. "And we've spent that time uprooting trees. You're the only one who's able to enter and exit the royal captial". Reiner replied. "We only have ten years left. You're saying you want us to spend those ten years playing soldier"? asked Annie It's been two years since the wall was breached, but the king of the walls never made a move. If the Tybur family's imformation is correct, then the king is bound by some kind of vow to renounce war". Reiner pointed out. "If that's the case then we should just stop wasting time and put an end to this". Annie said "Oh, so you want to destroy Wall Rose, and Wall Sina too"? asked Reiner. Annie and Bertholdt looked at him in shock as he continued. "Yes doing that might cause the Founding Titan to show themselves, but you realize that no matter how defeated they may be, one scream from them can turn everything around right? And then we precious warriors will die with the rest of the world, our mission is incomplete. The fate of humanity is riding on us". Reiner stated as he had a vision of the countless Colossus Titans inside the walls being awoken and destroying their hometown. "So we can only march slowly forward. I've started to realize it finally. That is what we're here for". Reiner concluded. Later, Reiner found himself in the 104th cadet corps being interrogated by the instructor. "TELL ME WHY YOU CAME HERE"! The instructor demaneded. "I came to save humanity"! Reiner told him firmly. He then had a flash of memmories flooding to him. Training with the cadet corps. Meeting Eren Yeager, and Armin Arlert. The Battle of Trost. Discovering that Eren was a Titan. Killing Marco. Joining the Survey Corps. Fighting the Female Titan with Jean, and Armin. Revealing his, and Berthodlt's identittes to Eren. Escaping to Wall Maria. Getting sucked into the vortex. Meeting Fluttershy. Rarity. Sweetie Belle. Apple Bloom. Applejack. Rainbow Dash. Pinkie Pie. And Twilight Sparkle. "I'm a chosen warrior. Entrusted with the Armored Titan. I'm gonna punish the island devils, and become the hero who saves everyone". Preview The time to clean up winter, and get ready for spring has arrived, however Twilight can't seem to find any activty to help out with, and with Ponyville's track record of always being late for spring, things don't look good. Next Episode. Winter Wrap Up. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Reiner Braun/Armored Titan (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt/Female Titan (Flashback) Bertholdt Hoover/Colossal Titan (Flashback) Karina Braun (Flashback) Marcel Galliard (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Eren Yeager/Attack Titan (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Dina Fritz (Flashback) Keith Shadis (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Hanna Diamant (Flashback) Franz Kefka (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Fluttershy (Flashback) Rarity (Flashback) Sweetie Belle (Flashback) Apple Bloom (Flashback) Applejack (Flashback) Rainbow Dash (Flashback) Pinkie Pie (Flashback) Twilight Sparkle (Flashback)
Episode 17: Winter Wrap Up: Gala arc Part 10Night at the Golden Oak Library, Twilight Sparkle, and Spike were both asleep in their beds, when Twilight's eyes shot open, and she let out an excited gasp as she remembered what today was. "Spike, wake up. Wake up, wake up, it's Winter Wrap Up day"! She exclaimed with glee as she nuzzled the young dragon's head who looked up in confusion. "Huh? mommy"? "Winter Wrap Up day" Twilight repeated. "You're not mommy". Spike grumbled as he tried to go back to sleep. Twilight however rushed downstairs and began to put on her boots and jacket. "Spike, the first day of spring is tomorrow, so everypony in Ponyville needs to clean up winter. Now help me get ready". "Clean up winter? Who cleans up winter? Don't they just use magic to change the seasons like they do in Canterlot"? Spike asked. "No Spike, Ponyville was started by Earth ponies, so for hundreds of years they've never used magic to clean up winter. It's traditional". "It's silly". Spike grumbled as he crawled back under the covers of his bed. "No magic..... Fuh". Twilight paid no attention to him and kept trying to get ready. She got her jacket on, and then went and put on her scarf. Once she got that on, she pulled out a checklist. "Okay, let's see: scarf, check; saddle, check; boots, check; Spike refusing to get up and going back to sleep, check. It's a good thing I'm so organize". Twilight smiled, as she opened the door to her house. "I'm ready, bright and early"! she declared, only to realize that it was still dark out, and the sun hadn't even started to rise yet. "Oh... maybe a little too early". she smiled sheepishly. Elsewhere at their house, Reiner Braun was up as well, however unlike Twilight, he wasn't exicted for Winter Wrap Up. He couldn't be, because he had something else on his mind. In the interior part of the Walls, Annie Leonhardt was trailing behind a mysterious man. Something about him seemed off, and she was determainted to find out more about him. "That man in the black coat. There's something strange about him, something different from the other goverment officials. If I can discover where he's going, then maybe I can get to the King of the Walls". She thought. Annie followed the man until he rounded a bend, however when Annie got there she saw that the man was gone. "What"? she asked in confusion, when all of a sudden she felt a very tight grip on her shoulder. "Hey there little lady". The man said. "So, you decided to follow an old geezer like me eh? Well I must say, you've got quite an interesting taste in men". Annie just stood still for a moment, not knowing what to do. How did this guy know she was following him. Deciding it was best not to ask him that, she instead came up with a lie. "I was born in an inn. My Mother worked as she raised me alone, but she told me stories about my father. A man she only met once, and once I saw you, I knew you were him at first sight". Annie said. "Now ain't that just sweet". the man said sarcasticly. "Well if you want a hug from daddy then you should be a good girl and put your hands up". He told her. Annie knew right then and there that he didn't fall for her fib. "So, you don't believe it then do you"? she asked him. "Not a chance in hell. This is the one type of joke I hate the most". The man said. Annie just sighed in defeat. "I can't believe you daddy". she muttered. Then Annie tried to kick the man, but he dodged her attack. However it did give her enough time to run past him as he called after her. "Hey come on now! You've already hit that rebellious stage in your life eh". The man chased Annie, but gave up after seeing she went down into the sewerers. "Whatever. I don't need a daugther who tries to kick her old man to death anyways". The man said as he walked away, while Annie made her way through the seweres, disgusted by the smell. The next morning back at the barracks Thomas Wagner, Connie Springer, and Marco Bodt were standing over a sleeping Bertholdt Hoover. "He's doing it again." Connie pointed out. Refering to the fact that Bertholdt was in one of his strange positions again. "So what do you think his legs mean today, snow? asked Thomas. "No, his torso is saying that will have clear skies". Marco replied. "You're all wrong, his body means it'll hail". Reiner stated as he walked up to the three of them. "Get going, or you're going to be late for morning call". he told them, before turning to Bertholdt."Come on Bertholdt, wake up". Later that day, the trainess we're all eating breakfest. One of them, Eren Yeager, had a very angry look on his face, something Reiner noticed and pointed out. "You seem more bloodthristy then usual today Eren". That was when another trainee, Jean Kirstien spoke up. "It's because he failed hard at training yestarday. You should have seen it, such a sad sight. You got all tangled up in the wires that I thought they we're going to strangle you". Jean said to Eren. The boy, Eren Yeager sat at his seat, glaring at Jean for a while, before speaking up. "Not as sad as the sight of you practicing how to turn tail and run away from a Titan you horse faced coward". He retorted. Jean just shrugged and continued to Mock Eren. "Right, and you'd just charge headfirst into a battle, and get killed in a web of your wires. I'm sure the Titans will find that hilarious. Face it Eren, that's your life, and you know it". That statement set Eren off, and he lunged at Jean, who got up as well. Reiner seeing this threw himself between the two of them, and held them back. "How many times to I have to tell you two to cut it out"?! Reiner asked in annoyance as another soldier named Floch Forster shouted at them as well. "Shut up you two, It's too damn early for this". Floch said while the others watched the struggle. Later that night, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Annie all sat away from the barracks discussing what they should do next. "You know, while you two got to sleep like babies after a day of fooling around with your new friends, I was crawling around through the captial's sewers". Annie told them. She then started to talk about the guy she encournterd. "The man in black was different from the others. He's the real deal. He almost caught me..... I bet he must've seen my face. So if I join the interior MPs and he's there, I'll be done for". "So that's it". Reiner stated cold-heartedly. "Let's go back to Marley, and just give them the information we've already gotten. It's already been five years since we destroyed Wall Maria, I'm sure they'll be happy to just hear something". Annie said. "Are you really so sure about that"? Reiner asked. When Annie didn't answer Reiner continued. "I'm pretty sure they'll be disappointed if these five years of results are all we bring them". Then......... What do we do"? asked Annie. Reiner thought for a moment, before standing. "We'll destroy Wall Rose. Whether or not the King really has made a vow to renounce all war this is the only way to smoke out the Founding Titan. The day our training corps class is in Trost is the same day the Survey Corps will be going on another scouting mission beyond the walls. If we can create as much chaos as possible, even the training corps will be forced into battle. We can disappear then. Even if they never find our bodies, no one will suspect that we're still alive. We can even slip in with the crowd of refugees that will be flooding into Wall Sina. Or depending on the situation, we can continue being soldiers. If it looks like we're going to be in the top ten, then we can wait to graduate and become MPs in the interior. What I'm trying to say, is that we'll move as the King of the walls moves and put ourselves in the best position to take action". He told them. Annie, and Bertholdt looked at him for a few minutes. "Alot of your friends will die, maybe even all of them". Annie told Reiner, who knelt down to her eye level. "I keep telling you, they're not my friends. They're eldian devils who are different from us. However, that doesn't mean we shouldn't try to gain their trust. If anything, your attitude of isolating yourself is way more flagrantly". Reiner stated. "I'm gonna puke. Could you please, get your face away from mine"? Annie asked uninterested. Reiner did as Annie asked, and stood up. "You must be tired, I always feel bad for putting this much burden on your shoulders. So let's leave at that for today". Reiner said as he, Annie, and Bertholdt began walking back to the barracks. "I keep having the same dream. It's about the old man from that villiage. I wonder why he told us that story, before he put the noose around his neck" Bertholdt stated. Reiner only stared back at him Back in Equestria Reiner watched as the sun began to rise as Reiner looked out the window. "Time to wrap up winter I guess" Twilight rushed out of her house smiling with glee, while Spike lie on her back, still to tired to do anything. As they moved through town, Twilight took noticed of the different colored vest the ponies were wearing. Each of them represented a different job for Winter Wrap Up. "Those must be the team vests Rarity designed. Blue for the weather team, green for the plant team, and tan for the animal team. I wonder which team vest I'll be wearing". Twilight thought. Spike also saw them, and instantly knew which one he wanted to wear. "I'll take a blue vest, same color as my blankie, which I think I hear calling my name. "Spike! Spike! Come to bed!" Ugh, it's too early". He stated. Twilight just rolled her eyes as she galloped to town square, where there was a crowd of ponies already. Twilight made her way through the crowd, and saw Reiner standing near the front. "Hi Reiner". Twilight smiled. "Good morning Twilight". Reiner replied with a small smile of his own. The two of them stood around for a bit when Mayor Mare came up to adress the ponies. "Thank you, everypony, for being here bright and early. We need every single pony's help to wrap up winter, and bring in spring". Everypony with the exception of Reiner, cheered as the Mayor continued. "Now, all of you have your vests, and have been assigned to your teams, so let's do even better than last year, and have the quickest Winter Wrap Up ever"! Twilight had a huge smile on her face as the Mayor spoke. "Oh, this is so exciting". "All right everypony, find your team leader, and let's get galloping"! The Mayor concluded. Once Mayor Mare was done with her speech each pony went in a different direction, while Twilight looked around, wondering where she should go. "Oh gosh, where should I go? I'm not sure where I fit in. What exactly does everypony do"? she asked. Rainbow Dash then walked over and started singing. Three months of winter coolness And awesome holidays. She was then joined by Pinkie Pie. We've kept our hoofsies warm at home Time off from work to play. Followed By Applejack But the food we've stored is runnin' out And we can't grow in this cold. Then Rarity And even though I love my boots This fashion's getting old. Now Twilight started singing. The time has come to welcome spring And all things warm and green But it's also time to say goodbye It's winter we must clean How can I help? I'm new, you see What does everypony do? How do I fit in without magic? I haven't got a clue! Reiner joined in We'll work together, and get through this. I Know you're confused, but you don't have to worry, because I'll never leave your side. The whole town then joined the song. Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Applejack] Cause tommorow spring. [Rainbow Dash] Is here. [Chior] Cause tommorow spring is here. [Rainbow Dash] Bringing home the southern birds A Pegasus' job begins And clearing all the gloomy skies To let the sunshine in We move the clouds And we melt the white snow. [Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie] When the sun comes up Its warmth and beauty will glow! [Chior] Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! [Rarity] Little critters hibernate Under the snow and ice. [Fluttershy] We wake up all their sleepy heads So quietly and nice". [Bertholdt Hoover] We help them gather up their food Fix their homes below. [Fluttershy] We welcome back the southern birds. [Rarity, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt] So their families can grow! [Chior] Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Rarity] Winter, Winter! [Chior] Let's finish our holiday cheer Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Rarity] Winter, Winter! [Chior] Cause tomorrow spring is here Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Rarity] Winter, Winter! [Chior] Cause tomorrow spring is here 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! [Applejack] No easy task to clear the ground Plant our tiny seeds With proper care and sunshine Everyone it feeds Apples, carrots, celery stalks Colorful flowers too We must work so very hard. [Applejack, Cherry Berry, and Golden Harvest] It's just so much to do! [Chior] Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Pinkie Pie] Cause tomorrow spring is here. [Chior] Cause tomorrow spring is here! [Twilight] Now that I know what they all do I have to find my place And help with all of my heart Tough task ahead I face How will I do without my magic Help the Earth pony way I wanna belong so I must Do my best today, Do my best today! [Chior] Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! Let's finish our holiday cheer Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! 'Cause tomorrow spring is here Winter Wrap Up! Winter Wrap Up! [Reiner Braun] Cause tomorrow spring is here 'Cause tomorrow spring is here 'Cause tomorrow spring is here! After song was over, everypony went off to their respective teams. All except for Twilight, who didn't know where to go, and Reiner, who wanted to remain by her side. "Everypony belongs to a team. What should I do? Where should I go"? Twilight asked. "Don't worry Twi, you'll figure out something, and I'll stay with you". Reiner reassured her. Twilight looked up at the unicorn stalion and gave him a small smile. "Thank you Reiner, but what about Bertholdt". Twilight asked. "Oh he decided to help Fluttershy, and the animal team today, between you and me, I think Bertholdt has a little thing for Fluttershy". Reiner told Twilight making her giggle. Twilight thought about what she and Reiner could do when she looked up and saw Rainbow Dash, and the weather ponies about to go and move the clouds. "Rainbow Dash". Twilight called causing the pegagus to look down. "Oh, hey Twilight, Reiner". "What are you doing"? asked Twilight. "Sending off one of my flight crews to retrieve the birds that have flown south for the winter". Rainbow Dash replied. "Can Reiner, and I help". Twilight asked hopefully, causing Dash, and Reiner to look at her. "Uh Twilight". Reiner started to say, but didn't have to finish because Twilight knew what he was referring too. "Right, no wings". "Sorry you two". Rainbow Dash apologized as she flew off with her team. Twilight sighed. "Great, now what am I supposed to do"? she asked. "I don't know about you, but I'm gonna be nappin". Spike stated as he closed his eyes and went to sleep. "Come on Spike, this is serious business. Winter needs to be wrapped up, and I'm determined to do my part. Somehow". Twilight replied. "I Know, why don't we go see what Rarity's doing, and ask if she needs any assastiance". Reiner said. "Great Idea". Twilight exclaimed as she gave Reiner a hug. The three of them headed over to where Rarity was, and found her working on several birds nest. "Rarity, please tell us there's something, anything Reiner, and I can do to help". Twilight pratictly begged. Reiner put his hooves on Twilight's shoulders, telling her to remain calm, before looking at Rarity. "Rarity, would you like some help"? he asked. Rarity thought for a bit before nodding. "Well, how would you like to help create Ponyville's finest birds' nests"? she asked. "Birds nests"? Reiner asked in confusion. "Why yes. When the weather team guides the birds back north for the spring, they'll need a place to live and lay their eggs". Rarity told them, as she showed Twilight, and Reiner the one she had just finished. "Wow, Rarity, that one's really beautiful". Twilight complented. "Oh why, thank you most sincerely. Would you like to try your hoof at a nest"? Rarity asked. "Oh yes please"! Twilight exclaimed. "How about you Mr. Braun". Rarity asked. Reiner thought for a moment. "Sure". he replied. Rarity smiled and gave each of them supplies to get them started. Once both Twilight, and Reiner had what they needed Rarity began to instruct them on what to do. "Okay. Now... uh, take some of that straw and hay over there, and a little bit of branch. Now, weave them through there, yes". Twilight and Reiner did what Rarity asked, both pretty well. "Uh, take some ribbon". she told them. Both Reiner, and Twilight did what they we're told, however while Reiner was doing pretty well, Twilight was having some trouble, which Rarity took notice of. "oh uh, n... not there, oooh, yes, uh, tuck it in over there, uh but be careful not to... I don't know I guess that would do... oh dear". Reiner, and Twilight both finshed around the same time, and while Reiner's was almost identical to the one Rarity made, Twilight's wasn't so much. "Wow, Reiner your's looks just like Rarity's". Twilight complemented, she then looked at her's, and saw that it did not match the other two. "Oh". She sighed in disappointment. "That house needs to be condemmed". Spike insaulted upsetting Twilight a littile. Rarity tried to reassure Twilight that it wasn't that bad. "Oh, Spa-ha-hike, it's not so bad, ah, maybe birds can use it as a..." Rarity couldn't find the right word to finish her sentance, "An outhouse"? Spike suggested. "Spike It's just fine. It's just a little rough around the edges". Rarity stated as she walked over to Twilight in order to assiast her. "Let me lend you a hoof. Let's just untie this ribbon, and let me take out these sticks here, we'll shave this..." However soon Rarity was to distracted to even notice Twilight, who once again sighed. "I think we lost her". Spike stated. "Nevermind, lets go see if Pinkie Pie needs, any help". Reiner said. "Great idea". Twilight stated. The three friends walked through town, eventually making it to one of the lakes. There, they say Pinkie Pie happily ice skating on the lake in order to making it eaiser for the it to be melted. The pink earth pony smiled when she noticed Twilight, Spike, and Reiner coming over the hill, and happily called out to them. "Hellooooooo, Twilight, Spike, Reiner. Wheeeeeeee"! Twilight looked on in amazment. She was absoultey astonished by Pinkie Pie's ice skating skills. "Wow, Pinkie Pie, you're quite the skater. Probably the best skater I've ever seen". Twilight complemented. "Thanks Twilight, I've been doing this since I was an itty-bitty little-wittle Twinkie-Pinkie. Just comes natural. Which is probably why they designated me the lake scorer. I cut lines in the lakes with my skates. That way, when the rest of the weather team comes here to break the ice, it'll be easy as pie". Pinkie Pie explained. Twilight was fascinated by that. "How clever. When the thick ice begins to melt, it'll break along the lines, and since Pinkie seems to be a natrual ice skater I have no doubt she'll be able to get the job done. Thing is though, this isn't the only lake in Ponyville, and sure Pinkie Pie could defenitly do one, but I doubt she could get all of them done in time. I wonder". Twilgiht was taken out of her thoughts when Pinkie Pie skated over to her. "You know Twilight, there a qutie a few lakes here, so I was wondering if maybe you'd like to help me"? Pinkie Pie asked. Twilight's eyes lit up in excitment. "Would I? Of course"! She exclaimed. "Great"! Said Pinkie as she tossed over some skates to Twilight. Pinkie Pie then turned to Reiner. "You want some skates too Mr. Braun"? she asked inoccently. "No thank you, I think I'll sit this one out". Reiner said giving Pinkie Pie a small smile. Pinkie Pie smiled back, and went back to her skating. "YAAAAAY"! The pink earth pony cheered excitedly, as Twilight finshed putting on her skates, and was about to step onto the ice. However, once she did she had trouble keeping her balance. "Uh... maybe on second thought". Twilight considered giving up right then and there, as she was worried about getting injured, or worse falling through the ice, and drowning. Spike however walked up to Twilight with a frown on his face. "What are you talking about? You said you wanted to be helpful". Spike reminded Twilight just as Pinkie Pie skated by them again. "YIPPIEE"! "Now get out"!. Spike exclaimed as he pushed Twilight onto the ice. But just as Twilight feared, she had trouble keeping her balance on the slippery ice, and began slipping and sliding. "Twilight, steer! Steer"! Pinkie Pie called out. Twilight tried to do what Pinkie Pie said, but she couldn't, and instead headed stright for the pink pony. "Oh boy"! Pinkie exclaimed as she tried to get out of they way, but she couldn't, and Twilight crashed into her, and then both of them crashed into Spike, before finally crashing back onto the snow bank. Reiner, having seen to whole thing came over to see if they we're alright. "Ha ha, you are a natural, Twilight. A natural disaster". Spike laughed, causing Reiner to frown at the purple dragon. "Twilight, you did a great job your first time around. I'm sure my first time was just as wobbly and bobbly and crasheriffic as yours". Pinkie Pie stated, trying to make Twilight feel better. "Really"? Twilight asked. "No". Pinkie sighed, "But did I make you feel better? she asked. "Mm-hmm, yeah, I guess". Twilight responded. Pinkie Pie smiled at Twilight. "I think you'll be super awesome at something that keeps your hooves on the ground". Pinkie thought for a bit on what Twilight could do to help out, then an Idea flew into her head. "I know, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt could probably use your help with the critters". "Hey that's a great idea Pinkie, whadaya say Twilight"? asked Reiner. "Well... I'm pretty good with little animals. Yeah, I'll go help them"! Twilight declared, as she began sliding away. "Um, it's that way". Pinkie Pie said pointing in the other direction. Currently Publicly Availble Information Winter Wrap Up. The Ponies of Ponyville are tasked every year to clean up the winter season in order to get ready for spring. Because Ponyville was Founded by Earth Ponies, that means that Unicorn Magic is not allowed to be used. Twilight, Reiner, and Spike arrived over to where Fluttershy and Bertholdt were. Fluttershy was ringing a bell inside of a den in order to wake up the animals inside. "Wake up, little sleepy heads. Hope you had some wonderful dreams and restful hibernation, but it's time to get up now, spring is coming". Two hedgehogs came out of the den, just as Twilight, Spike, and Reiner came up. " Awww, how cute". Twilight cooed softly. "Aren't they? This is my favorite task the whole season, when I get to see all my little animal friends again". Fluttershy stated. "Um, what's hibernation"? Spike asked. "It's like a long sleep". Bertholdt stated. "Long sleep"? Spike asked in confusion. "Yes". Bertholdt answered, as Flutterhsy went over to another den. "Wake up little porcupines". She said softly into the den. "Animals often hibernate through the winter to save their energy and eat less food". Bertholdt explaine Spike smiled hearing all the things that hibernation had to offer. "I definitely like the idea of hibernation, uh, except for the "eat less food" part". "How do you know all about this Bertholdt"? asked Reiner. "Oh, um Fluttershy told me". "I see". Reiner said snarkaly. "What's that suppose to mean"?! Berthodlt asked in annoyance. "Oh nothing" Reiner smirked just as Fluttershy came back over to them, she frowned when she saw all the dens that we're still left. "Oh, would you just look at all these warrens and dens? Bertholdt I'm worried that we won't be able to wake up every animal before spring comes". Fluttershy said sadly. "Yeah, that does seem to be a problem". Bertholdt replied. "Well don't worry you two, Reiner, and I will help". Twilight stated happily. "You will? Oh thank you". Fluttershy smiled. " Okay, let's start there". Twilight said as she took a bell from the pile, and walked over to one of the dens. Once she arrived, she gentley rang the bell in order to awaken whatever animal was inside the den. "Hello? Wake up little friends, wherever you are. Spring is coming". Twilight rang the bell again. "Oh Reiner I wonder which cute little furry creatures I've awoken". She asked. Her question was soon answered, however it wasn't anything she was expecting, as three snakes came out of the den, causing Twilight to scream. "Waaa! Snakes! Snakes"! Twilight scurried back all the way into another den. A den full of bats. Twilight ran out screaming, she ran so fast that she didn't see where she was going, and bumped right into a tree. The force of her impact caused a beehive to fall and land right on her head, angering the stinging insects who did exactly that to Twilight. Once again she ran, right into a den that was the household of two Skunks who sprayed Twilight with their stink, and came out of the den as Fluttershy greeted them. "Good moring friends". Twilight groaned in both pain, and frustration. Back at the Golden Oak Library Spike, and Reiner we're cleaning Twilight off in order to get the skunk stink off of her. "All this Winter Wrap Up stuff is a lot harder than it looks". She stated. "Right, because there's no magic. Why don't you just use magic Twilight, and get it done the right"? Spike asked. " No, Spike, I have to do it the traditional way. Ponyville has never needed magic to wrap up winter". Twilight replied. "She's right Spike. We can't go aganist tradtion, this is the way it has to be done". Reiner stated. Spike however still tried to reason with both of them and said "Well, they never had you here before, either. Think how much quicker they could wrap up winter with your magic". No, no, no! I'm gonna find some other way that I can help out if it kills me"! Twilight responed with a newfound determination in her voice. After a few hours Twilight was finally ready to get back outside and help with winter wrap up. She went up to several different ponies to see if they needed help, but all of them kindly declined. Eventually though, Twilight, Spike, and Reiner made their way over to where Applejack, and Apple Bloom where. The elder Apple sister was ordering a group of stallions who were pulling snow carts around in order to clear the frozen water up. "Keep pushin', Caramel. That's it, Bumpkin. I know it's hard work, but you guys are doin' great. Yee-haw"! "Wow Applejack this is going wonderfully". Apple Bloom complemented just as Twilight walked up. "Hey Applejack, Apple Bloom how's everything going"? she asked. "Oh just dandy A little slow startin', but peachy all the same. There's a lot of ground to clear, ya hear? We can't even start the plantin' and the waterin' until we git all these heap a' snow hightailed outta here". Applejack explained. "Well Reiner and I would like to help". Twilight offered. Applejack, and Apple Bloom turned to Twilight with looks of heasitation. Unlike Rarity, Pinkie, and Fluttershy they were more reluctant to let Twilight help, as this was a job meant for strong ponies like Big Mac, or Reiner, the only reason Apple Bloom was even there was because Applejack wanted to prepare her for when she would eventually be pulling one of those snow carts, Applejack tried to tell Twilight that. "Well, I... I dunno Twilight". "Please! Just give me a chance". Twilight begged. Applejack looked down at Apple Bloom. "What do you think little sis"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom thought for a moment before answering. "Twilight is our friend, and this is her first winter wrap up in ponyville, so I think you should let her help, besides look at those guys down their, they seem so tired, they could probably use the extra assistance". "You're right Apple Bloom, besides I'd never turn down two hard workers". Twilight smiled after Applejack agreed to let her help, and soon she and Reiner we're straped to their own wagons to get ready to work. Reiner had an easy time pulling the wagon do to his streghth, and possible thanks to his Armored Titan abilty. Twilight on the other hoof was having trouble pulling her wagon. It was very heavy after all. As she struggled Twilight remembered back to what Spike said. "Think of how much quicker they could wrap up winter with your magic". Twilight thought for a moment. Maybe Spike's right, I mean a little magic couldn't hurt, yeah I could use a come to life spell". Twilight lit up her horn "Alright, here it goes". The spell seemed to work, now Twilight was having a much eaiser time pulling the cart, Reiner took notice of this, and stopped. "Twilight how are you"? He then noticed her horn was glowing. "Oh no". he mutterd. Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Spike also noticed how strong Twilight seemed to have gotten. "Hmm. She's awful strong for such a little pony". Applejack pointed out. Spike also seeing it realized what Twilight was doing, and a huge smile spread across his face. "That's my girl, following my advice". "And what in tarnation those that mean"? asked Applejack. Down bellow Twilight smiled as things seemed to be going pretty smoothly, but then her spell went wrong. She lost control of herself, and started to faster, and faster, causing more snow to pile up in the places that we're already cleared. "Uh-oh. Slow down. Slow down"! she cried out despreately, but to no avail, and soon she was ended rolling the snow into a giant snowball, that was headed striaght for Applejack, Apple Bloom, and Spike. Apple Bloom seeing the snowball wisely leaped out of the way just in time, However, Applejack, and Spike weren't so lucky, and the ball crashed into them causing both of them to start rolling in it. "What's going on? Wha'd'ya do? You used magic, didn't you"?! Applejack questioned. The ball kept rolling and rolling, until it crashed into a siding causing both Apple Bloom, and Reiner to cringe at the sight. The crash also caused a huge pile of snow to sprayed all over where the stalions had just cleared, meaning that they had to start over again. Something they we're not happy about. Apple Bloom, and Reiner came over to see if everyone was alright just as Applejack got up and began to scold Twilight. "Nuts, Twilight, you used magic"! "The nerve, can you believe her"? Spike stated, clearly trying to make it seem like he had nothing to do with this. Applejack only glared at him before turning back to Twilight. "That's not how we do it around here, Twilight, and especially not on my farm"! Applejack shouted. (vc-pf20132018 plays) Twilight's eyes filled with tears as she tried to explain the situation. "Well, see, I just wanted to... ". She couldn't bring herself to finish and ran off crying, as Reiner went after her. "Twilght wait"! he called out, as Apple Bloom went over to her sister. "Oh Apple Bloom, do you think I was a little to hard on her"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom couldn't answer. Reiner caught up with Twilight and ran infront of her. "Don't be so hard on yourself, everypony makes mistakes". "Not as bad as this". Twilight retorted as she looked at the mess she caused. "Okay, but still". Reiner began only for Twilight to intterupt him. "I know you're trying to make me feel better, and I really appriceate that Reiner, but I just want to be alone". With that, Twilight slowly walked off leaving Reiner alone. "I know exactaly how you're feeling". Reiner said in his head as he remembered the words of his mother, and Marcel. "I know you'll be able to complete your mission. And I'm sure your father is praying for your sucess too". "You weren't supposed to be chosen as a warrior in the first place.... But.... I influenced the army's opinion by putting you on a pedestal, and making my little brother look bad. I just, wanted to protect Porco from this hell we have to go through with the Power of the Titans. Please forgive me Reiner". After about twenty minutes of searching Spike eveuntally found Twilight hiding in a bush. Sighing he walked over to her. "Come on Twilight come on out". he begged. But Twilight refused. "I'm a winter mess up". Spike, wanting to be there for his friend tried to reassure her. "Well you're good at a lot of things, just not nest-making, ice-skating, animal-waking, snow-clearing". "Wow thanks for brighting up my mood". Twilight said sarcasticly. "That's what I'm here for, sister". Spike responeded just as Reiner came up to the bush. "Twilight come on, you can't stay in there forever". He said. "Yes I can! I'm not coming out". Twilight replied. Reiner sighed in frustration, he tried to think of something to get Twilight out of the bush, when his thoughts we're intterupted by Applejack's voice. "Rainbow Dash, y'all on the weather team need to melt the rest of the snow here on the ground and the trees, pronto". "Got it". Dash replied, and was just about to do what Applejack asked when Fluttershy, and Bertholdt stopped her. "Wait the animals homes will be flooded if the snow melts too fast". Fluttershy stated. "That's right, you need to wait Rainbow". Bertholdt replied. "Right". Dash replied this time listening to Bertholdt and Fluttershy. Applejack didn't like what she was hearing, and again told Rainbow Dash to melt the snow. "I'm telling you need to melt the snow now"! "No wait"! Fluttershy argued. "Okay"? Dash replied now unsure what to do as Applejack, and Fluttershy kept arguing. "Go"! Yelled Applejack. "Stop"! Yelled Fluttershy. The two of them kept going back and forth causing Rainbow Dash to get extremely frustrated with both of them. "Make up your minds already"! she exclaimed just as The Mayor walked over after hearing the argument. "Oh! What in Equestria are all you arguing about? This sort of silliness is why we were late for spring last year, and the year before that, and the year before that". The Mayor complained. Her statment had manged to get Twilight's attention, who poked her head out of the bush. "Did she say, late"? Twilight asked. "Sure sounded like it". Reiner responeded as the Mayor Continued. "I was hoping my amazingly inspirational speech would urge everyone to do better than last year, but now it looks like we're going to be later than ever. I mean just look at this catastrophe! The ice scorers made the ice chunks too big to melt. The nest designer is horrendously behind. We need several hundred, and she's only made one"! Mayor Mare stated as Rarity wept. "And don't get me started on all the clouds in the sky, the icicles on the trees... this isn't good, not at all". The Mayor sighed. "And it's gonna be all to pieces disastrous if we can't get our seeds all planted". Applejack stated. " Chillax Applejack, we're bustin' our chops as fast as we can". Rainbow Dash said. "No, not fast. We have to wake animals slowly". Fluttershy replied. Just then, Big Macintosh, and Apple Bloom came over with Caramel. "Um, Applejack". Apple Bloom called to her older sister. Applejack, already knowing what Apple Bloom was about to tell her sighed in frustration. "Oh good gravy, Caramel lost the grass seeds again, didn't he"? "Eeyup". Big Mac confirmed. Just then another pegagus named Rainbowshine came over to deliever more bad news. "Derpy just went north to get the southeren birds"! Rainbow Dash facehoofed in annoyance after hearing that. " Oh that featherbrain. Didn't she learn her lesson last year when she went west"? The ponies all started to complain and argue as Mayor Mare tried to calm everyone down. "Stop this at once. We don't have time to argue. It's almost sundown. Spring is going to be late again. Another year of scandal and shame. If only we could be more organized". Hearing this caused an idea to fly into Twilight's head. "Spike! Get my checklist and clipboard, STAT"! Spike looked at Twilight in confusion before nodding. "Eh, yes, ma'am". "What are doing"? asked Reiner. "I have a plan Reiner". Twilight replied as she tried to get the crowd's attention. "Stop, everypony". Twilight called. No one stopped. "Stop"! Twilight called again. No one stopped. Twilight then used a spell to cause a bird to chirp very loudly like a whistle. That got everyone's attention. "Sorry". Twilight apologized to the bird before turning to the others to adress them. "I know you all want to complete your jobs on time, but arguing is no way to go about it. What you need is organization, and I'm just the pony for the job. Twilight said just as Spike came back. And so, with Twilight's organization skills, the nest were completed, all the lakes melted, the southern birds brought home, all hibernatine animals awake, the fields all cleared, and soon all the snow melted. Once everything was done Mayor Mare couldn't be more happy. "I can't believe it. Spring is here! On time! And we have you to thank for it. If it weren't for your organizing skills we would still be arguing". She told Twilight. "Eeyup". Big Mac replied. "I told you you'd find a way to help out". Reiner said walking up to Twilight. "It was a team effort". Twilight responeded. Mayor Mare then walked over to Twilight with something. "And since you helped every team, we have an official vest for you. We give you the title, All-Team Organizer". Twilight was shocked, she couldn't help but smile. "Gosh, I don't even know what to say. Thank you, everypony". Mayor Mare then turned to the crowd. "And hereby I declare that winter is... wrapped up on time"! The crowd cheered in delight as Applejack looked over to where Spike was who was sleeping over one of the lakes on a small patch of ice about to melt. "Spike's sure gonna be in for a hell of a surprise when that last piece a' ice melts". she chuckled. Later that night, Twilight was resiting her letter to the Princess. "Dear Princess Celestia, Winter Wrap Up was one of the most special things I've ever been a part of here in Ponyville. It helped me to learn we all have hidden talents, and if we're patient and diligent, we're sure to find them, and as always, with good friendship and teamwork, ponies can accomplish anything". "Did you get that Spike"? Twilight asked, only to turn around and see Spike asleep. "Oh Spike". She laughed. Preview A strange dream effects Apple Bloom's peformance at school, not only that but some of the others children start to tease her for her lack of a cutie mark, so she plans to do whatever she can to both figure out what her dream means, and get her find her speical purpose in life. Next Episode. Call of the Cutie. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance. Twilight Sparkle Spike Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Kenny Ackerman (Flashback) Connie Springer (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Thomas Wagner (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Franz Kefka (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Jean Kirstien (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Floch Forster (Flashback) Mina Carolina (Flashback) Shoeshine Ameathsyt Star Lemon Hearts Golden Harvest Daisy Twinkleshine Derpy Hooves Berry Punch Mayor Mare Cherry Berry Lyra Heartstrings Applejack Rainbow Dash Apple Bloom Rarity Dr. Hooves Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Caramel Bumpkin Karina Braun (Flashback) Marcel Galliard (Flashback) Big Macintosh Rainbowshine
Episode 18: Call of the Cutie: Gala arc Part 11The day was perfect. The sun was shining, birds were chirping, and there wasn't a single cloud in the sky, it was just beautiful. Apple Bloom happily frolicked in a field of red flowers, giggling and smiling as she fell to the ground and looked up at the clear blue sky. "Days like today should honestly be ilegal". Apple Bloom thought to herself, but then again, how could anyone want to spend their time inside on such a lovely day. Apple Bloom couldn't stop thinking about that fact, and it made her feel lonely as she was the only pony in the field. "Oh, I wish I had somepony to play with". she sighed before rolling over and staring off into the distance. That was when she saw something, at first Apple Bloom couldn't make out what it was, but once she got a closer look she could see that it was another filly up on the hill. The filly saw Apple Bloom, smiled, and waved, Apple Bloom smiled and waved back. For a while Apple Bloom just stared at the filly, she had a light pink coat, and curly light blue hair. The filly then beckoned for Apple Bloom to follow her, and then ran off. "Hey wait"! Apple Bloom called as she began to follow after the filly. However she stopped for a second, and looked back at her house, seeing her sister in the kitchen. "Applejack won't mind if I'm gone for just a few minutes".Apple Bloom thought. So she followed after her new friend. "Hey wait up". Apple Bloom called, as the filly kept giggling. They both kept running until Apple Bloom lost sight of her. "Huh, where'd you go? Are we playing hidie and seek"? She asked. Apple Bloom looked around, and it was then she realized where she was. The Everfree Forest, and she was deep in it too. "Oh no, I was so busy trying to follow that girl that I must have wondered into the forest". Begining to panic Apple Bloom started to run, hoping to find away out before any of the creatures that lived in this dastertly place came out to eat her, or maybe even find Zecora's hut. As she ran she heard a faint voice ""Apple Bloom". She ran faster, covering hears trying to drown out the sound, but it kept getting louder and louder. "Apple Bloom". "Apple Bloom"! Apple Bloom awoke with a start, panting she looked up to her teacher staring down at her with a stern look on her face. "Good moring". said Miss Cheerlie. Apple Bloom looked around in confusion. "What. Happend"? she asked. "You fell asleep during class". Cheerlie stated. "Oh, sorry". Apple Bloom apologized. Miss Cheerlie sighed "Well don't let it happen again, I really need you to pay attention to today's leason, because today we're learning about Cutie Marks". One student, Diamond Tiara was unimpressed by this leason. "Bo-ring". She sighed. Cheerlie ignored what Diamond Tiara had said and just continued on with the leason. "You can all see my cutie mark, can't you? Like all ponies, I wasn't born with a cutie mark. My flank was blank". Cheerlie explained while showing a picture of her as a filly. "Aww...! She's so precious"! exclaimed a student named Twist as Cheerlie continued. "Then one day, when I was about your age, I woke up to find that a cutie mark had appeared". "Hey look at her hair"! One student stated. "Yes I know, but honestly, that's how everypony was wearing their mane back then. I had decided to become a teacher, and the flowers symbolized my hope that I could help my future students bloom if I nurture them with knowledge. The smiles represented the cheer I hope to bring to my little ponies while they were learning. Now, can anyone tell me when a pony gets his or her cutie mark". Cheerlie asked. "Oh! Oh! Oh! When she discovers that certain something that makes her special"! Twist said. Cheerlie nodded. "That's right Twist . A cutie mark appears on a pony's flank when he or she finds that certain something that makes them different from every other pony. Discovering what makes you unique isn't something that happens overnight, and no amount of hoping, wishing, or begging, would make a cutie mark appear before its time". Cheerlie explained. "Apple Bloom tried to listen, and pay attention, but something was in the back of her mind, and that was the dream she had. "I don't know why, but I have a strange feeling about that dream. No I'm sure it meant nothing, then again Granny Smith told me once that dreams are sometimes visions of the future, but all I did was play in a field of flowers, and follow a strange girl into the Everfree forest. Maybe I'll meet her in real life one day........ No, I just". "Psssst". Apple Bloom was taken out of her thoughts by a noise, she looked over to see Diamond Tiara trying to hand her a note. Apple Bloom chose to ignore her, after all she had already gotten in trouble for falling asleep she wasn't going to be excused of passing notes either. Diamond kept trying to pass Apple Bloom the note, but unfourtently for her, she ended up being caught. "Diamond Tiara! Are you passing a note". Diamond Tiara dropped the paper and began acting innocent, as Cheerlie walked over. "What's so important that you couldn't wait till after class". she asked, but then looked down and saw that the paper had nothing on it. "Huh? It's blank". Cheerlie whispered, as Diamond Tiara smirked. "Remind you of anypony"? Diamond Tiara said looking towards Apple Bloom, however the farm filly was too focused on her dream to pay attention to what anyone was saying around her. After the class was over Apple Bloom headed over to her locker to get her lunch when all of a sudden Snips, Snails, and another colt named Featherweight came up to her. "Hey Apple Bloom you wanna eat lunch with us"? asked Snips "Yeah do you, do you"? Snails asked as well. Apple Bloom stared at all three of them in shock, she didn't know what to do. "Uh, I... Um..." Apple Bloom stuttered as she franitcly tried to come up with an excuse. She silently thanked her lucky stars when she saw Twist up a head. "Oh, I'm, uh terribly sorry you guys, but...um.... I promised Twist I'd have lunch with her today, and you know can't break a promise, heh heh, um... Buh bye". Apple Bloom said as she quickly trotted off leaving the three in confusion. Once Apple Bloom was far enough away she began to think about that, after all it wasn't the first time that had happened to her. "Ponyville Junior High. A fairly decent school in my opinon, sure it's nothing like Schools in big cities like Canterlot, or Manehatten, but It gets the job done. I still remember my first day here, I walked into my class, and for one reason or another I instantly became the most popular girl in the school. I don't know why it happened, and I certainly didn't ask for this"! Apple Bloom sighed, as she caught up with Twist. "Hey Apple Bloom, what's wrong"? Twist asked her friend. "Oh nothing, just have somethings on my mind". Apple Bloom replied. "What would that be"? Twist asked. Apple Bloom gave her friend a small smile. "Don't worry about it, after all I'm sure it's nothing important. I guess I just want to know how I got all this attention drawn onto me". Twist gave Apple Bloom a wide grin. "That's easy! It's because ever since the first day of school, you were so nice, and caring to everypony. If anyone needed help with their homework, or with solving a problem you'd offer your assistance, if you ever saw one of our fellow classmates sitting alone at lunch, and recess you would always join them in order to make them feel better, and you're always the first to welcome new students to the school". Hearing Twist say all this made Apple Bloom smile, maybe she was right. However, Apple Bloom's smile soon faded when she heard a familar, snobby voice. "I don't know why we had to sit through a lecture about getting a cutie mark". Apple Bloom looked over to see Diamond Tiara, and her little cohort Silverspoon coming towards them. "I mean, waiting for your cutie mark is sooo last week. You got yours, I just got mine. We all have them already. I mean, almost all of us have them already, I can't believe you two haven't got your's yet". Diamond Tiara said sarcasticly to Apple Bloom, and Twist. "Don't worry, you two, you're still totally invited to my cute-ceañera this weekend". "It's going to be amazing". Silverspoon piped up. "It's a party celebrating me and my fantastic cutie mark. How could it not be"? Diamond Tiara questioned as she and Silverspoon did their special little dance. "Bump! Bump! Sugar-lump, rump"! "Gimme a break". Apple Bloom sighed as Diamond Tiara and Silverpoon left. "See you later, Blank Flanks"! they insaulted. That night Apple Bloom went to bed early since she didn't want a repeat of what happened that morning, and once again she had the dream. The dream picked up right where it left off with Apple Bloon in the forest. She looked around franticly, trying to find anyway out. "Oh this dream is starting to turn into a nightmare". she muttered. Apple Bloom kept looking for something when she once again spotted the filly in a patch of trees, but this time she was with another filly. Apple Bloom couldn't see the other filly's face, but could make out some details about her. She had golden hair, and appeare to be wearing some tattered clothing. Of course they both ran off in the oposite direction. "Hey hold on"! Apple Bloom called out as she followed them all the way to a cave. Apple Bloom stopped, not sure if she wanted to go into the cave, but she wanted to know who those two were, so she decieded to go in. Apple Bloom ran through the cave, not stopping for any reason whatsoever. Finally she saw a light up ahead, and ran towards it. Apple Bloom however didn't find the exit, insted she seemed to be in some kind of other area of it, this one covered in what looked like crystals. "Woah" Apple Bloom stared in aww, when she suddenly heard something. Hiding behind one of the pilars, she saw eight strange looking creatures having a what seemed to be some kind of conversation. "Please, oh king I beg of you, please help me! Save the people before my wife, and childern, before everyone is eaten"! "Eaten? By what"? Apple Bloom asked in confusion her curiosty piecked as she wait for the female creature to responed. "No! This is our punishment for the sins we have commited for the last two thousand years"! She said. "Sins? What is she talking about, who are they"? Apple Bloom wondered. For awhile all of them seemed to just stand still confusing Apple Bloom even more. Then a blinding flash erupted from where the creature that asked for help was standing, sending a shockwave of crystal debries towards Apple Bloom who was knocked out. When she came too she looked around, and saw that the place had been slightly damanged. Apple Bloom looked around, and gasped when she saw a horrible sight. The children, and the mother of the creatures were most defenitly dead. Apple Bloom gasped in shock, espesicaly at the one who clearly seemed to be the youngest. Apple Bloom took a look at each of their bodies. They seemed to have been crushed from above, but what could have done that, there we're no rocks to have fallen on the ground. Apple Bloom backed away, and while doing so she caught glimpse of another creature, just standing still, looking at the carnage. Apple Bloom stared back at him for a bit, before seeing another light, hoping this one would lead her out, and sure enough it did. Apple Bloom found herself in another field. Breathing a sigh of relief, she decieded to take a rest, and forget about those two fillies. She laid down, but not only two seconds later the ground started to shake, and Apple Bloom jolted up in suprise as she wobbled and tried to keep her balance. She looked around, and in the distance, she could see a huge cloud of smoke up in the air. Apple Bloom gasped as she woke up from her dream. She looked up to see her older sister Applejack staring down at her with a stern look on her face. "Huh, Applejack? What happend"? Apple Bloom asked. "Ya overslept, come on you got chores to do". Applejack stated. "Oh, sorry". Apple Bloom apolgized. Applejack sighed, "Well come on you're gonna have to eat first before you do any work and". Applejack stopped when she looked back at Apple Bloom, a look of both confusion, and concern on the elder apple sister's face. "Apple Bloom..... Why are you crying"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom was confused by Applejack's question, so she looked in the mirror, and sure enough tears were streaming down her face. "I don't know". Apple Bloom simply replied. Later, Applejack, and Apple Bloom were outside gathering Apples from the trees in the orchard. Applejack bucked one tree and Apple Bloom caught them inside the basket she was carrying. "Nice catch sis". Applejack complemented. "Thanks". Apple Bloom smiled before looking down. "What's wrong"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom sighed. Why don't I have my cutie mark yet. She asked. Applejack looked at her little sister in confusion. "Now what brought this up"? she asked. "Well, Diamond Tiara invited me to her cute-ceañera this weekend, but the way she was braging about her cutie mark means I just can't show up without one of my own. Applejack gave her a confused look. "And what makes you think that"? she asked. "I just know I do"! Apple Bloom responeded. Applejack looked down at her little sister. "Well, I hate to break it to ya, but a cutie ani't just going to appear because you want one too, and besides I was the last one in my class to get my cutie mark, and I couldn't be prouder of it. I knew my future was to run Sweet Apple Acres, and these bright shiny apples sealed the deal. I think Big Mac, and Granny Smith we're also the last ones in their classes too, huh must run in the family. Hey hold on a minute. Run in the family". Apple Bloom gave Applejack a confused look before asking. "What are you talking about"? Applejack smiled and replied. "Think about it, I have three Apples for a cutie mark, Granny Smith has an Apple Pie, and Big Mac has half an Apple". "What are you getting at"? Apple Bloom asked. Applejack smiled again. "How would you like to help me at the market today". She asked. Apple Bloom gasped in shock. "A are you sure about this, I mean I" She stuttered, but Applejack put a reassuring hoof around her shoulder. "Don't you worry none, I know you're ready for this, and besides maybe you'll get your cutie mark". Hearing this Apple Bloom gave her sister a big smile. "Okay"! She exclaimed excitedly. Later that day, Applejack, and Apple Bloom were both in the market trying to cell the apples they had in their stand. "Get your delicious, nutritious apples here"! Applejack called out to the crowd. "Delicious, and nutritious"! Apple Bloom repeated. "As well as so many uses." she began to explain i hopes of drawing in at least one pony. "You can eat them". She said as she swallowed one whole. "Play with them". She said as she threw one, only for it to hit another pony. "Watch it"! "Sorry"! Apple Bloom apolgized, she then started to look around, and saw a stalion walking by. "Excuse me sir, would you like to buy an apple"? The stalion looked down at Apple Bloom. "No thanks I've got plenty at home". he responeded. Apple bloom looked down in dissapointment. "Oh, okay". she sighed. Seeing Apple Bloom's dissapointed look, the stalion sighed. "You know, maybe I don't have enough, tell you what I'll buy one, okay"? he asked as he gave Apple Bloom a bit, and bought an Apple. Apple Bloom gave a wide grin, happy that she made a sucessful sale. "Apple Bloom grab some more Apples from the wagon for me please". Applejack called out to her. "Sure thing big sis". Apple Bloom replied as she went over to grab more apples from the wagon. "This is going great, I thought it was going to be alot harder, but it's actually quite easy". Apple Bloom thought to heself as she made her way back over to Applejack, however she failed to see a chair leg sticking out in her way, and when Apple Bloom walked over to that area she tripped, sending the Apples flying into the air, and causing them to land all over Sweetie Drops. "Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry I didn't mean, I mean it was an aciedent and". Apple Bloom began to stutter. Sweetie Drops gave Apple Bloom a small smile. "It's alright, I mean I wasn't planning on buying any apples today, but since they're alredy in my bag I might as well. So how much". Apple Bloom turned to Applejack in hopes that she would know what to say. "Tell you what, do to the situation no charge". Applejack stated. "Why thank you". Sweetie Drops said as she left. Applejack smiled and turned towards Apple Bloom only to see her taken over her aporon. "Now what are doing Apple Bloom". Applejack asked. "I just don't think I'm ment to be a salespony". Apple Bloom replied. "Oh come on it was just one little mistake, everypony makes them on the first day". Applejack stated. "But what if I make more, and hurt somepony"! Apple Bloom protested. Applejack thought for a moment really unsure of what to responed with. Then she came up with something. "Listen, sugarcube, I know it's hard to wait for your very own cutie mark, but, you just can't force it. Besides, you're not that grown-up just yet. Ain't there other fillies in your class without one"? Apple Bloom thought for a bit. "Twist doesn't have her's yet". "Well then there you go, wouldn't you feel better going to the party with her"? Asked Applejack. Apple Bloom nodded. "Well alright then". Applejack said. As soon as Apple Bloom left, a stalion spoke up, "Hey, who's been using my racket". Applejack gave a nervous chuckle. Currently Publicly Avalible Imformation Cutie Marks. A mark that appears on A pony's flank. It is ment to tell a pony their special calling in life. Apple Bloom made her way over to Twist's place and knocked on the door. Twist smiled when she saw Apple Bloom. "Hi Apple Bloom, what's up"? she asked. Apple Bloom smiled at her friend and told Twist the reason why she was their. "So I was thinkin'... maybe we could go to Diamond Tiara's cute-ceañera together. I don't have a cutie mark, you don't have a cutie mark". Twist stopped and gave a nervous look. "Well, actually". Twist turned around and reavled that she had gotten her cutie mark shocking Apple Bloom. "Isn't it wonderful"? Twist asked. "I've always loved making my own favorite sweets, but it took me some time to discover that it was my super-special talent. Pretty sweet, huh"? Apple Bloom was still in shock, sure she was happy for her friend, but now she truly was the only one in class who didn't have a cutie mark. "Uh....... Yeah". She responeded. Indeed Apple Bloom was happy for her friend, but she was also clearly upset that she was now most likely the only one in her school without a cutie mark. "Hey... this doesn't mean we can't go to the cute-ceañera together. You're still gonna come to the party, are you"? Twist asked. "Of course she will". Said Diamond Tiara who had just shown up with Silverspoon". "Yeah It's not like being the only pony there without a cutie mark would be, like, the most embarrassing thing ever". Silverspoon laughed, as she and Diamond Tiara walked off with Twist leaving Apple Bloom alone. Apple Bloom, unsure of what to do next found herself laying beside a tree when Rainbow Dash showed up all of a sudden. "Whoa, looks like somepony's got a dark cloud hanging over her head. Let me do something about that. What's the matter, kid"? Dash asked. Knowing that Rainbow Dash was one of Applejack's best friends Apple Bloom took a deep breath and explained everything. "There's a cute-ceañera this afternoon and everypony in my class will be there and they'll all have their cutie marks and I wanna get my cutie mark but I'm no good at sellin' apples but I really wanna go to the party but how can I go to the party if I don't have my cutie mark which my big sister says I'm gonna get eventually but... I WANT IT NOW"! "Cutie mark? I can get you a cutie mark like that"! Rainbow Dash stated. "Applejack says these things take time. I have to just wait for it to happen". Apple Bloom Pointed out. Rainbow Dash just scoffed in response. "Why wait for something to happen when you can make it happen"? Dash asked. "But Applejack says th....." Apple Bloom began only for Rainbow Dash to intterupt her. "Hey, who are you gonna listen to, Applejack, or the pony who was first her class to get a cutie mark"? Rainbow Dash asked "I can think of a number of reasons not to listen to you". Apple Bloom mumbled to herself as Rainbow Dash continued "I always liked flying an' all, but I was going nowhere in a hurry. It wasn't until my very first race that I discovered a serious need for speed, and KAZAM, this sweet baby appeared as fast as lightning". Rainbow Dash took off beckoning for Apple Bloom to follow her. The little farm filly sighed. "I know I'm gonnna regret this". she said to herself as she followed Rainbow Dash (DOA Plays) Once they had gotten to a specfic area, Rainbow Dash had Apple Bloom doing push ups while she coached her on. "That's right, stretch out those legs. Gotta be nice and loose. The key here is to try as many things as possible as quickly as possible. One of them is bound to lead to your cutie mark. Are you ready". "I'm ready"! Apple Bloom said. "I said are you ready"! Rainbow Dash asked again. "I'M READY"! Apple Bloom repeted. "Juggling, go"! Rainbow Dash shouted. Apple Bloom proceeded to juggle five balls, and found that she was pretty could at it, but no cutie mark. So Dash opted to try something else. "Hang Gliding go"! Apple Bloom ran towards the edge of a cliff and leapt off. Soon she was soaring through the air, and while it was exciting it was also terrifying, so Apple Bloom landed on the ground without a cutie mark, Yet Rainbow Dash still had more tricks up her wings. "Karate, go"! Apple Bloom jumped at one of those things that's used for karate training. She kicked it so hard it was knocked out the window impressing Rainbow Dash. "Well Damn". she muttered. but still Apple Bloom had no cutie mark. "Kite flying go"! Ordered Dash. Apple Bloom flew the kite, but no cutie mark. "Ultrapony Roller Derby, go"! Again, no Cutie Mark. Rainbow Dash and Apple Bloom sat under a tree as Rainbow went over all the things they did in order for Apple Bloom to get a cutie mark. "Tried that one... tried that one... tried that one...". Apple Bloom sighed when once again she heard Diamond Tiara, and Silverspoon. She looked over and saw them wearng their new dresses for the party. "Your new outfit is, like, perfect for the party". Said Silverspoon. "I know. It totally shows off my cutie mark". Diamond remarked. "I love being special". Silver replied Can you imagine how embarrassing it must be to be... not special"? asked Diamond Tiara. "I don't even wanna think about that". Silverspoon replied as she and Diamond Tiara laughed. Apple Bloom sighed, when Rainbow Dash shouted out. "I got it!" "What is it"? asked Apple Bloom. Rainbow Dash came over to her and showed her a picture of a 60 meter ramp going stright down over several rings that were lit on fire. Apple Bloom gulped. "This pony's trying to kill me". "With this I'm sure you'll get your cutie mark in no time, and "Uh that's nice Rainbow Dash, and I really appreciate your help, but I uh, have somewhere else I really need to be right now". Apple Bloom said as she quickly ran off leaving Rainbow Dash alone and confused. Apple walked through the town. The whole time thinking about how she was going to be humilated at the party later. It plauged her mind so bad that everything and everyone became a blur. Apple Bloom had to sit down, and once she did, she began to hyperventilate. All of a sudden she saw two figures heading towards her. It was Toola Roola, and Coconut Cream. "Apple Bloom". Called Toola as she and Coco came up to her. Are you alright? Asked Coconut Cream. Apple Bloom shook her head. Toola Roola and Coconut Cream both looked at each other before Coconut Cream nodded. "Alright. Toola Roola stay with her, and I'm going to get some help". Eventually Coconut Cream returned with both Miss Cheerlie, and Nurse Redheart. Both of whom told Toola Roola and Coconut Cream to go as they could handle it from there. Once they left Redheart gave Apple Bloom a glass of water which she drank slowy. Once Apple Bloom had her composer back, she started to explain what happen. "I was walking, and then everything went blurry, and I had trouble breathing". "You've had a Panic Attack". Nurse Redheart explained simply. "Did something upset you, make you anxious"? She asked. Apple Bloom thought for a moment, remembering that it was the fear of being humilated at the party that caused the attack, but she didn't want them to know about it. "Yeah a little a guess". Apple Bloom stated. "You wanna talk about it, you can you know". Nurse Redheart said. Apple Bloom shook her head. Nurse Redheart nodded. "Well Panic Attacks can be very scary, but the symptoms are temporary remember that if it happens again. Hearing that scared Apple Bloom "It's gonna happen again"? She asked. "It might, I deal with filles younger then you who have them everyday". Nurse Redheart explained. "No! I can't go through that eveyday". Apple Bloom stated. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to sugesst that you would". Nurse Redheart Apolgized. "You know what how about I get Applejack". She sugesseted. "No! Don't tell Applejack, about this. Or Big Mac, or Granny Smith". Apple Bloom begged. "Apple Bloom, your family can really help you with this". Said Miss Cheerlie. "No"! Apple Bloom stated firmly. "Okay". Nurse Redheart Nodded. With that Apple Bloom walked off in the opposite direction. Once she was out of sight Cheerlie turned to Redheart. "Ellie, you're not really gonna keep this from Apple Bloom's family are you"? She asked. "For now Sammy, yes I am". Redheart confrimed. "But how long can you keep it from them, you know they'll find out eventually". Cheerlie protested. "I'm well aware, but this is what Apple Bloom wants". Redheart stated. Cheerlie sighed. "Alright". Meanwhile Apple Bloom kept on walking through town, however she couldn't help shake the feeling she was being followed, but when she turned around there was nopony, at least nopony who looked suspicous at all. Eventually Apple Bloom found herself at sugarcube corner where Pinkie Pie was setting out a tray of snacks, she looked up and noticed the little filly at the entrance. "Oh, hey Apple Bloom, how are you today". Pinkie Pie asked. Apple Bloom starred up at the pink party pony and began to explain. "Diamond Tiara is having her cute-ceneria today, and I've been trying to get my cutie mark so that I wouldn't become the laugh stock of the school". Once she finshed Apple Bloom looked over to wear Pinkie Pie was standing, but saw that she wasn't there anymore. Apple Bloom became confused and started to look around for the silly pony. "Pinkie? Hey Pinkie where'd you go"? she asked. Pinkie then appeared right behind Apple Bloom shocking the little filly. "What the, how did you". Apple Bloom was about to ask, but then she remembered who she was talking to. "It's Pinkie Pie, don't question it". she mummered to herself. "You wanna get your cutie mark"? asked Pinkie. "Um........... Yeah". Apple Bloom said hesetating a little with her response. "Well I can help you with that. I happen to know the perfect cutie mark for you". Pinkie Pie exclaimed excitedly. Apple Bloom beamed with happiness after hearing Pinkie's word's. "Really?! What, what is it"? she asked. "A cupcake making cutie mark!" Pinkie exclaimed as she grabbed Apple Bloom and brought her into the kitchen. "Hold on Pinkie, I'm not so sure about this". Apple Bloom protested. "What are you talking about you're an amazing baker". Pinkie Pie stated. "Yeah but those are all apple related dishes I make". Apple Bloom told her. "Well what about those brownies you bake? They're not apple related". Pinkie Pie said. "That was just an experiment I tried". Apple Bloom responeded. "An experiment"? asked Pinkie. "Yeah, I saw them in a recipie book one day, and decieded to give baking them a try. Them turning out the way they did was purely a coincidence". Apple Bloom replied. "Well now you can experiment with cupcakes, come on just give it a try". Pinkie Pie encouraged as she began to sing a little tune. "All you have to do is take a cup of flour! Add it to the mix! Now just take a little something sweet, not sour! A bit of salt, just a pinch! Baking these treats is such a cinch! Add a teaspoon of vanilla! Add a little more, and you count to four, And you never get your fill of... Cupcakes! So sweet and tasty! Cupcakes! Don't be too hasty! Cupcakes! Cupcakes, cupcakes, CUPCAKES"! Though she was still unsure if this was a good idea, Apple Bloom couldn't help but smile at Pinkie Pie's song. "Alright, let's make some cupcakes"! Apple Bloom said. "YAY"! Pinkie Pie cheered. After about thirty minutes the cupcakes were done, and they suprisnigly looked promising, though Apple Bloom was still unsure about the whole thing. "Oooh, those look amazing Apple Bloom"! Pinkie Pie stated as she took one and ate it. Seeing how Pinkie Pie gulped the whole thing down, Apple Bloom decieded to take a small bite herself, and to her suprise, they weren't half bad. "Huh maybe I will get my cutie mark in cupcake baking". she thought to herself. Just then Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "What's that"? Causing Apple Bloom to get excited. "What's what? Is there something on my flank? Is there, is there, is there"? Apple Bloom gasped when she spotted what looked like a cutie mark on her. "A cutie mark! It's a... a measuring cup? No. A mixin' bowl? No... Are those cupcakes? A tower of cupcakes maybe". She exclaimed, but then Pinkie Pie blew on it revealing that it was just some flour that got onto Apple Bloom's flank when they were baking. "Flour. It's flour! Yay! I guessed it. What game you wanna play next? Please say bingo, please say bingo". Apple Bloom however just sighed in dissapoinment and looked down. Just then, Twilight Sparkle, Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover all walked into the kitchen. "Hey Pinkie Pie, what are doing"? Twilight asked. "We've been making cupcakes, wanna try them"? Pinkie Pie asked as she brought the tray up to the three new ponies. "Woah, these look amazing". Stated Reiner as he Bertholdt, and Twilight each took one. "And they taste amazing too". Bertholdt pointed out. "Yeah who made them"? asked Twilight. "Apple Bloom did"! Pinkie Pie replied. Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt all turned to see Apple Bloom, still looking down in dissapointment. The three walked over to her. "You seem like you got something on your mind". Reiner stated. Apple Bloom didn't reply, she just kept looking down. "Apple Bloom? Are you okay". Asked Bertholdt. The little filly shook her head. "What's the matter"? asked Twilight. Apple Bloom took a deep breath. "Tiara's cute-ceañera's today and everypony in my class will be there and they'll all have their cutie marks and I want to get my cutie mark but I keep failing no matter what I try or how good I am at it but I wanna go to the party but how can I go to the party if I don't have my cutie mark, which Applejack says says I can't just make appear, but I need it it to appear, right now"! Twilight looked at Apple Bloom in confusion? "Why does it need to appear right now"? she asked. "Because if I go to the party without a cutie mark I'll be humilated". Apple Bloom stated. "And what can we do"? asked Twilight. "Can't either you or Mr. Braun use your magic to make my cutie mark appear"? asked Apple Bloom. Twilight looked at Apple Bloom in shock. "What? Oh no, Apple Bloom. A cutie mark is something a pony has to discover for herself". "Can't you please try? Pretty please"? she begged giving them really big puppy dog eyes. That almost got Twilight to cave, she would have most likley given in had it not been for Reiner. "Im sorry Apple Bloom, but neither Twilight nor I can do that for you". "But". Apple Bloom began only for Reiner to intterupt her. (Vogel Im Kafig Plays) "No! Apple Bloom listen to me, A cutie mark appears when a Pony finds his or her special talent right"? Apple Bloom nodded. "If Twilight or I just magically poof a cutie mark on to your flank, then you'll most likley end up with something you won't enjoy"? Reiner explained. Apple Bloom thought for a moment. "But Diamond Tiara said". Reiner stopped her before she could finish. "If all Diamond Tiara cares about is cutie marks, then she's not someone you should be trying to impress. You already have a family who loves you, and friends throughout Ponyville, the opinion of two little fillies isn't going to matter to anyone, and you know that". Apple Bloom didn't know what to say at first, but after thinking it over she knew that Reiner was right. "Yeah, you're right Reiner I shouldn't care what one pony thinks of me". "Right, now I suggest you go out there, and if Diamond starts to give you trouble, just let her know that you don't care what she thinks. Apple Bloom nodded, took a deep breath, and step outside to join the party. Once she was in the main room, she began to tense up, and get nervous, but she brushed her worries aside. You can do this Apple Bloom, remember what Reiner said, the opinion of one pony doesn't matter Just then Apple Bloom saw Applejack, and went over to her, Applejack smiled when she saw that her little sister had made it. "Apple Bloom, you made it. After I heard about Twist, I was afraid you wouldn't show up. I sure am glad you came to your senses about this whole cutie mark thing. These things happen when these things are supposed to happen. Trying to rush 'em just drives you crazy. I'll let you be, looks like your friends want to talk to you". Apple Bloom turned around, and saw Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon standing behind her with devious grins on their faces, but Apple Bloom didn't let that faze her. "Well well well, look who's here". Diamond Sneered. "And look who's still a blank flank". Silver Spoon joined in. Apple Bloom cringed at their remarks, but remembered what Reiner had said, and spoke up. "You're right, I don't have my cutie mark, and that's okay". Apple Bloom stated confusing both bullies. "O Okay"? asked Silver Spoon. (Call your Name Plays) "Yeah, because your opinions of me don't matter, If all you care about are cutie marks, then I'm not going to waste my time or my life trying to impress either of you. I know that I will get my cutie mark eventually, and It will be something I'm really good at. Now what that is I don't know, but I will when I discover it. Now if you two will excuse me". Apple Bloom went back over to Applejack who stood their in shock, so did everypony else. "Wow Apple Bloom, that was quite mature, and I for one am proud of you". Applejack stated. "Thanks Applejack, can we go? I'd honestly rather be with Ponies who like me for who I am, and not what's on my flank". Applejack smiled. "Sure thing, you got anywhere in mind". (The Reluctant Heroes plays) "Well".......... Apple Bloom stated. A couple moments later Apple Bloom, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt we're all hang gliding, and having a lot of fun while Twilight resited her letter to Princess Celestia "Dearest Princess Celestia, I am happy to report that one of your youngest subjects has learned a valuable lesson about friendship. Sometimes, the opinon of others doesn't change how your true friends feel about you..." "They help you learn who you should associate with, and who truly cares about you". Celestia concluded as she smiled at her own cutie mark. (Inside Wall Rose) Eren Yeager awoke from the dream he had, just as Mikasa Ackerman walked into the room. "Eren, are you alright"? she asked. Eren looked at her confused,before nodding. "Yeah, Yeah I'm fine Mikasa don't worry. What was that dream about"? Eren wondered. Preview Still trying to get her Cutie Mark, Apple Bloom and her class take a filed trip to Manehatten, where she encounters a troubling situation, luckily for her, there are old friends, and even new ones who will come to her aid. Next Episode A Simple Request. Author's Note Characters In Order of Appearance Apple Bloom Cozy Glow (Dream) Applejack Samantha Cheerlie Diamond Tiara Silverspoon Twist Toola Roola Coconut Cream Featherweight Snips Snails Ymir Fritz (Dream) Grisha Yeager (Dream) Frieda Reiss (Dream) Rod Reiss (Dream) Lady Reiss (Dream) Ulkin Reiss (Dream) Abel Reiss (Dream) Dirk Reiss (Dream) Florian Reiss (Dream) Eren Yeager Lyra Heartstings Tornando Bolt Lucky Clover Golden Harvest Shoeshine Dr. Whooves Berry Bunch Sweetie Drops Ace Point Rainbow Dash Ellie Redheart Pinkie Pie Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Princess Celestia Mikasa Ackerman
Episode 19: A Simple Request: Gala arc Part 12(VCNPf Plays) 3 Years ago. "I'm going to return to the hometown we lost, that's all I care about now". Reiner stated, as he, Bertholdt, Eren, and Armin walked up the hill. I joined the ranks hoping to get into the military police, and work from the safety of the interior. What about you? Why'd do you want to be a soldier"? asked Bertholdt. Eren thought for a moment, remembering his mother's death before answering. "I decided I have to kill them, I won't stop until every single Titan is dead". Eren told them. The four people kept walking, as Reiner spoke to Eren. "You saw what those monsters are capable of, and you still wanna take them on"? he asked as they reached their destanation. Reiner turned back to look at Eren. "I know you can do it, I can see it in your eyes. Eren Yeager was it"? Present Reiner stared out the window of his home. One day, we will return to our hometown. The sun rose up at Sweet Apple Acers as Apple Bloom got up from her bed, stretched, and looked out the window. The sky was clear and crisp, not a single cloud at all. Apple Bloom smiled, and walked into the bathroom where she took a shower, and got ready for school. Once she was done Apple Bloom headed downstairs to where her family was having breakfest. "Morning little one". Granny Smith greeted. "Good moring everypony". Apple Bloom said with a smile as she joined them at the table. "How'd you sleep last night"? asked Applejack. "Pretty good". Apple Bloom replied as she took a bite of the pancakes that were on her plate. "Wow Granny these are amazing"! she complemented. Granny Smith smiled as she walked back over to the table to join her grandkids. "Why thank you kindly youngin". Granny Smith said. Applejack smiled as she stared at Apple Bloom's happy face. "Ya'll might wanna move along, don't forget you have a field trip today". Applejack stated causing Apple Bloom to gasp. "I completly forgot about it"! Apple Bloom exclaimed. I a panic she began to rush eat her pancakes when Applejack stopped her. "Woah woah slow down there AB, don't worry you got plenty of time. I was just telling you to move along, but that doesn't mean I want you to eat so fast that you end up choking". Applejack stated. Apple Bloom blushed in embarrsement and looked down. "Sorry". she mummbled meekley as Applejack, Big Mac, and Granny Smith all laughed. Apple Bloom hapily trotted through ponyville towards ponyville junior high. As she walked through town, she walked path Mr. and Mrs. Cake who kindly waved to her. "Hello Apple Bloom". Called Mr. Cake "Good Morning". Apple Bloom waved back. Apple Bloom then walked past city hall, where the Mayor was outside speaking to two of her assistants. "Howday Miss Mayor". Apple Bloom called out. "Mayor Mare turned around after hearing her name called, she looked over to see Apple Bloom. The Mayor then smiled at the little filly and waved back. Eventually Apple Bloom arrived at Ponyville Junior High, and saw that everyone was already outside getting ready. Apple Bloom sighed, realizing that she had made it just in time. The first thing she needed to was find Miss Cheerlie, and give her the permission slip. Apple Bloom looked around for her homeroom teacher, and eventually saw her speaking to Twilight Sparkle, Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover. Curious, Apple Bloom decieded to evesdrop on their conversation. "I wanna thank the three of you again for coming on this trip, Celestia knows will need all the help we can get". "No problem Miss Cheerliee, we're happy to help". Reiner Replied. "Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt are going to be coming with us? That's wonderful"! Apple Bloom thought. "As I was sent here to learn about friendship, I feel this will be a good experince for me". Twilight stated. "I just wanna see more cities in Equestria, all my life I've lived in that villige, and never saw anything beyond the mountians". said Bertholdt. Hearing that made Apple Bloom feel bad for Bertholdt, she of course new of what happened to Reiner and Bertholdt's hometown, and also knew that they missed it and wanted to go back there one day, but maybe there was a part of them that was glad they didn't live there anymore. "Hello Apple Bloom". Apple Bloom jumped in suprise when Reiner called out her name. She looked up to see the three ponies staring her, smiling. "Listening in on our converstion I see, quite sneaky my little filly". Twilight chuckled. Apple Bloom didn't say anything, she just pulled out the permission slip, gave it to Miss Cheerilee, and quickly got in line. After a few miniutes Miss Cheerlie walked up to address the children. "Okay boys and girls, now that we're all here let's head to the train station". The students all began to walk, Apple Bloom a little more slowly then the others. As she did, she remembered a momment from her past. A young Apple Bloom gulped nervously as she looked up at her father. "I don't know, are you sure they're gonna like me Daddy"? Bright Mac looked down at his youngest daughter and gave her a warm smile. "Of course they will sweetie, now you go on and have a good day okay". Apple Bloom gave her father a small nod before hugging him goodbye, and walking into the building. Apple Bloom had to consider herself lucky as her class was the first one on the right. She walked up, and knocked on the door. A kind looking mare opened up and smiled at Apple Bloom. "Hello you must be the new student". Apple Bloom nodded. "I'm Miss Cheerilee, you're new teacher, now please come on in, and introduce yourself to the others". Apple Bloom followed Miss Cheerilee inside. "Children". Cheerile annocued to the others. "We have a new student joinning us today". She gestured to Apple Bloom who walked up infront of the board. "Introduce youself". Cheerliee stated "Hello, I'm Apple Bloom, it's very nice to meet all of you". Apple Bloom stated. Apple Bloom looked around, and saw that the other students were all staring at her. "She's adorable". said one female "Where are you from Apple Bloom". asked another male "I live at Sweet Apple Acres". Apple Bloom responded "Woah so cool". said another colt. Apple Bloom looked up, and saw that everyone was smiling at her, well almost everyone, their happened to be two her were giving very dirty looks which confused her, but she decieded not to let it bother her. "Alright Apple Bloom why don't you take your seat in the back row okay". said Miss Cheerilee. Apple Bloom nodded, and went to her seat. "Alright now I want everyone to pull out their textbooks and a pencil, and head to page 13". Orderd Miss Cheerilee. Apple Bloom did as she was told, and opened the book, but noticed she was missing a pencil. "Apple Bloom, where's your pencil?" asked Cheerliee. "Oh, I don't seem to have one". Apple Bloom stated. That was when she heard a voice next to her speak up". "Here, I have an extra you can use". said a small earth pony filly with curly red hear and glasses. "Thank you". Apple Bloom smiled as she took the pencil from the girl. "No problem my name's Twist and I think we're going to be good friends". Said the filly. Apple Bloom smiled at the memmory as she and the others arrived at the train station. As she was waiting to board, she heard a harsh "Ahem" next to her. Apple Bloom turned around to see Diamond Tiara, and Silverspoon giving her the same dirty looks they gave her on the first day of school. "What do you want Diamond Tiara"? Apple Bloom asked. "You made a very big mistake Apple Bloom". Silverspoon snarled. This confused the earth pony filly but she was curious on what Silverspoon was talking about. Diamond Tiara raised her hoof, signgaling for Silver to stop "Silvey, I will handle this, okay?" Silverspoon reluctantly looked down, and nodded. "You see Apple Bloom, after your little speech at my cute cenera, everypony stopped paying attention to me, they we're all busy talking about how great you were, and you weren't even there"! Diamond Tiara! Apple Bloom just stared at Diamond before speaking. "Im sorry, but all I said was that I didn't care about what your opinion of me was. I never had any intentions of ruining your party". "Well you did, and mark my words you will pay for that"! Diamond Tiara warned. That threat made Apple Bloom worry a bit, but luckily they we're now boarding the train. Once Apple Bloom was on, she made her way to very back of the train, and sat down. After that brief encounter with Diamond Tiara, and Silverspoon Apple Bloom did not feel like talkng to anyone. Apple Bloom leaned back in the seat, wondering what to do. She then decieded to pull out a blank piece of paper, and a marker, and she began drawing a picture. Eventually Apple Bloom was involed with her drawing, that she didn't notice anyone, until she heard a voice. "Hello Apple Bloom". Apple Bloom jumped up, and saw Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt standing next to her. She sighed in relief, and greeted them. "Hi Twilight, Mr. Braun, Mr. Hoover" "That's a pretty amazing drawing". Bertholdt compleneted. Apple Bloom smiled. ""Thank you, drawing is something I like to do in my spare time". Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt each took one of the empty seats next to Apple Bloom, and began chatting with her. This made Apple Bloom very happy, as she was begining to feel lonley by herself. Unbenknownst to any of them, Apple Bloom was being watched from afar, by Sweetie Belle, and another pegagus filly. "Is that her"? The pegagus asked Sweetie Belle. Sweetie Belle nodded. "Sure is Scootaloo". "Okay, then you know the plan, we talk to her, and get her to join our club". Scootaloo replied. The two of them were about to get up, and go over to Apple Bloom, when they heard an anonucement from the train engenier. "Next stop, Manehatten". "Damnit" muttered Scootaloo. As the train pulled into the city, Apple Bloom stared out the window in awe at the site of how magnieficent it was. "Woah Manehatten's a lot bigger then I thought it would be." she stated. "It sure is, I bet Rarity's green with envy right now". Twilight replied, causing Apple Bloom to giggle. "Alright everypony, lineup so I can explain how this is going to work". Miss Cheerlie anounced. The students all lined up to face Cheerile who was standing with the other two teachers. Miss Cheerlie then spoke up. Okay children, now each of you have a colored sticky note. Those notes are the colors of the groups you'll be in, and the teachers you'll be with. One teacher had an orange sign, The students who had orange sticky notes went over to him, they were Diamond Tiara, Silverspoon, Snips, Snails, and Rumble. "Oh great, those two''. Diamond Tiara muttered gestering to Snips, and Snails. "Hey at least better then having a blank flank with us". Silverspoon whispered back while snickering and pointing towards Apple Bloom, who looked away in embarssment. "That's true". Diamond Tiara sneered. The next teacher held up a purple sign. The purple group was Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Featherweight, Toola Roola, and Coconut Cream. Scootaloo looked around and noticed that Apple Bloom wasn't with them. "Shit". she cursed underneath her breath, as Sweetie Belle placed her hoof on Scootaloo's shoulder. "Don't worry, we'll have plentey of time to talk to her, and get her to join our club. By the way what's the name of it?" Sweetie Belle asked. "Oh, that I don't know". Scootaloo chuckled sheepishly. Finally, Miss Cheerile heled up a grey sign. That group was Petinua, Shady Daze, Rainy Feather, Dinky Doo, and Cotton Cloudy. Once the groups were set up, Apple Bloom began to look around and realized that she didn't have an orange, purple, or gray sticking note, so she had nowhere to go. She started to panic, when Twilight walked over to her. "Don't worry Apple Bloom, your with us". Twilight stated. Apple Bloom looked at her confused, so Reiner explained. "You see, the reason Twilight, Bertholdt and I are on this trip is to be with the studnets who don't have an assigned group, and low and behold you're that student. I hope you don't mind". Apple Bloom beamed in delight in response to Reiner's statment. "Good". Reiner sighed in relief. "Okay, where to first". Twilight asked. "Who knows, Bertholdt replied. As the three adults talked, Apple Bloom thought about everything she did, before the cute cenera last weak. "Maybe there's something here that I can do in order to get my cutie mark"! Apple Bloom thought to herself, just as Twilight tapped her on the shoulder. "Hey, Apple Bloom what are you doing" she asked. Apple Bloom looked up. "Oh sorry Twilight, just spacing out I guess". "Well come on, lets at least go somewhere, cause If I tell Rarity that all I did in Manehatten was stand around and talk, she'd never let me hear the end of it". Twilight stated as she thought about what exactly Rarity would say ("You just stood around and talked! UNACCEPTABLE"!) "That comment made Apple Bloom laugh, which made Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt laugh as well. Currently Publicly Avaliable Information Signal Flares. These small firearms use gunpowder to fire signal flares. Detachable barrels with signal flares inside are swapped in and out for every shot. Messages are conveyed by using different colors of smoke. Red: Titan spotted. Green: Formation should proceed. Black: Abnormal spotted. "Apple Bloom, Bertholdt, Twilight, and Reiner walked through Manehatten, visting many different, and excting places. Eventually they decieded to take a rest at a nearby park, which had a pond that had ducks, geease, and even a swan swimming in it. Apple Bloom walked over to the pond, and began feeding the birds some bread. Afterwards she noticed a giant boulder off in the distance, that was when an idea flew into Apple Bloom's mind . "Rock climbing? That might be the perfect cutie mark for me!" Apple Bloom ran over to the boulder, and began climbing it, imagining that it was the highest mountain in the world, and she was the first pony to make it to the top, however when she was almost there, she lost her footing, and slipped. Apple Bloom screamed as she fell to the ground. Apple Bloom closed her eyes as she waited for the impact, but it didn't happen. She opened her eyes, and looked up to see that Reiner had caught her. He set her down on the ground, and Apple Bloom turned away from him, with her head down". "Hey, take it easy Apple Bloom I know you want your Cutie Mark, but you're going to get hurt if you keep doing stuff like this". Reiner stated. Apple Bloom, still with her head down, simply stated. "Why Mr. Braun"? Her question confused Reiner, until Apple Bloom continued "No matter what I do, I just can't seem to get my cutie mark, and I can't stand it! Please Mr. Braun, tell me, what can I do to get me cutie mark? How do I become strong, like you?" She asked. Reiner realized something. He realized how much Apple Bloom reminded him of both Eren, and of Reiner himself when he was training to be a warrior. He knew that he had to say something. "Just, do what you can". Reiner remebered back to when he told Annie, and Bertholdt how they would breach Wall Rose. "The day after the disbandment ceromony. That's when we do it". "Just keep moving forward, that's all you really can do as of now". He told Apple Bloom "He remebered discovering Eren was a Titan "Eren. Don't Tell me you're. Killing Marco "Hey, why is Marco, getting Eaten"? Reiner reached out his hoof, Apple Bloom grabbed it, as he helped her up. Reiner thought back to when he and Annie killed the two Titan test subjects captured by the survey corps "We'll prove that we are warriors. Tonight, before they have a chance to learn anything about the two captured Titans Annie and I will dispose of them. "You're Right". Apple Bloom stated. Reiner remebered betraying the Survey Corps "We we're kids. What did we know about anything"? "I just gotta keep trying, and never give up". Apple Bloom said. Reiner smiled at the little filly. "You will get your cutie mark Apple Bloom trust me. I belive in you. We all believe in you". Apple Bloom smiled. "Thank you Reiner". Reiner remembered the words of Marcel. "Sorry Reiner. You see... You weren't supposed to be chosen as a warrior in the first place.... But.... I influnced the army's opinion by putting you on a pedestal, and making my little brother look bad. I just, wanted to protect Porco from this hell we have to go through with the Power of the Titans. Please forgive me Reiner". His mothers words "I know you'll be able to complete your mission. And I'm sure your father is praying for your sucess too" Reiner looked at the smile on Apple Bloom's face. He couldn't help but smile back, but he also remembered the words he has repeated over and over again. "I'm a chosen warrior. Entrusted with the Armored Titan. I'm going to punish the island devils, and become the hero whos saves everyone". Apple Bloom, and Reiner walked around the park, when Apple Bloom looked over and spotted an candy shop across the street. She looked up at Reiner with pleading eyes. "Can I go buy something from that candy store over there"? She asked. Reiner looked over at the store, and sighed. "Alright, but be sure to come right back". he told her. Apple Bloom ran off to the store as Reiner watched her, just to make sure she made to the store safetly. However, unbeknownest to either of them, someone else was watching Apple Bloom. Somepony with bad intentions. Inside the store Apple Bloom trotted over to one of the isles, and began to survey her options. Meanwhile at the counter, a police officer was talking to the employee working the regesiter, all while paying for his items. "Will that be all for you today Officer Smith". Asked the cashier. "Yes, thank you Ramsey". The cop replied. Ramsey scaned the items Smith had placed on the counter. "Alright that will be four bits". "Here you are". Said Smith as he paid. He was just about to leave, when a tall unicorn mare with short blonde hair, and an angry scwol walked into the store. "Great, her again". Ramsey muttered under his breath. Smith looked at Ramsey, he knew very well who that woman was. "I think I'll stay for a little while, I know how much Karen likes to cause trobule for you and your employees". Smith said to Ramsey. "Thank you". Ramsey side in relief. Karen walked down one of the isles, just as Apple Bloom came up to the counter. "Excuse me, can you please help me"? she asked. Ramsey looked down and smiled at the little filly. "Sure thing, what is it"? "Do you have any candy apples"? Asked Apple Bloom. Ramsey nodded. "Yes, they're in the back row". Apple Bloom beamed happily "Thank you"! she said as she ran off to the back row. Ramsey smiled, but it soon turned into a nervous look. "What's the matter"? asked Smith. Ramsey turned to Smith, and pointed a hoof at Karen. "She was eyeing that filly". Ramsey stated. Karen then headed in the same direction as Apple Bloom as Ramsey made a call on his walkie talkie. "Cali, Cali come in". A female voice answered from the other side. "Yeah Ramsey"? "I need you to go to the candy apples isle, and also have security watch the cameras that are on that isle". Ramsey stated. "Okay, but how come"? Cali asked. "Because Karen is here". Ramsey replied. "Ugh, great". Cali sighed. Alright I'll be right there". she stated. Cali walked over to the security office, and told them the situation. She then headed over to the candy apple isle. Once she arrived she saw Apple Bloom looking through the isles, that's when the unicorn mare arrived. Cali decieded to stay back and watch, just to see what happened. Apple Bloom kept staring at her options, completley oblivous to the unicorn mare staring creppily at her. Karen walked right behind Apple Bloom just as the young filly picked out the Candy Apple she wanted. However, when Apple Bloom turned around, she bumped right into the unicorn. Cali saw this, and immeditly started to make her way over to them, knowing what was about to happen. Apple Bloom looked up and immeditly apologized. "Oh I'm so sorry ma'am I didn't see" Karen intterupted her. "HOW DARE YOU YOU LITTLE BRAT". Apple Bloom jumped back in shock. "Okay well that was rude". She stated. "SHUT UP, I'LL HAVE YOU PAY FOR THIS"! Karen Yelled. "Sorry Ma'am but I didn't see you there, you were right behind me after all". Apple Bloom tried to explain, but Karen was having none of it. She was just about to grab Apple Bloom, when Cali showed up at the end of the isle. "Ms. Karen"! Cali called out. Apple Bloom, and Karen turned to see Cali. "I guess she's an employee here". Apple Bloom pondered. She then turned to Karen, who had smrik on her face, as she ran over to Cali. "Thank goodness you're here, this child assaulted me". Apple Bloom stared at Karen in shock. She then got scared, fearing that she would get in trouble, or even arrested, she had seen a cop here after all, but then she saw the employee mouth the word "Go". "Huh"? Apple Bloom wondered, but then realized what the employee was trying to say. Apple Bloom quickly grabbed another candy apple, as the one she had before was ruined, and went to the counter. There Ramsey and Smith were still talking, when Apple Bloom came up. Ramsey smiled. "Well ma'am did you find what you were looking for". Apple Bloom nodded. "Yes, thank you sir". Apple Bloom replied. She was just about to get the money from her saddlebag, when Ramesy stopped her. "You can have that for free". He stated. "Really"? Asked Apple Bloom in confusion. Ramsey nodded. Apple Bloom smiled. "Thank you". She said happily. "No problem, you just run along". Ramsey replied. Apple Bloom took the candy apple, and headed for the exited. "Goodbye! Have a great day". she called out to Ramsey, and Smith as she left the store. Back in the candy apple isle, Cali was still trying to distract Karen, when the snotty unicorn turned around, and realized Apple Bloom was gone. She turned to Cali, who had a smug look on her face. "Yes"? Cali asked. "Where is that little brat"?! Karen demanded. Cali looked at her confused. "Why, what little brat"? she asked. "The one I was just about to bring to the manger when you intterupted me, she was right there so you should have seen her"! "I didn't see anyone there during our whole conversation, it was just you and me". Cali stated. Rage filled Karen's eyes, and she yelled out in frustrated. "THAT'S IT! YOU NOW WHAT I'M GOING RIGHT TO THE FRONT DESK TO SPEAK TO THE MANGER! With that, Karen marched stright up to the front desk. "With any luck, she'll still be up there paying, and I can make her pay for what she did". Karen muttered to herself as she walked towards the counter where Ramsey and Smith we're still talking "Ah, speak of a bitch and she shall appear". Ramsey whispered to Smith, who chuckled as Karen walked up to them. Ramsey put on his best customer service face as Karen walked over them. "Good day ma'am, and what can I do for you". he asked. "There was a little filly who assaulted me, and I demand to know where she is"! Karen yelled. "Did this filly have long red hair, and a bow"? asked Smith "Yes, where is she"! Karen yelled. "Ma'am I'm going to ask you to lower your voice, and to answer your question, that filly you're talking about just left not to long ago, and another thing, we know you're lying, because we had security looking at the cameras the whole time. So you have two options, either you get the hell out of my store, or you can go to jail". Ramsey said as he gestuered to Smith, who pulled out his hoofcuffs, and should them to Karen. Karen, stared angrily at them, snarled, and walked out of the store in a huff, just as Cali walked up to them. "Geez, I thought she'd never leave". she said. Ramsey nodded. "Yeah, but knowing her, she'll be back". Smith turned to Ramsey, and Cali. "I'm going to head out too, I'm going to make sure that little filly is going to be okay". Ramsey smiled. "Alright, you have a good day officer Smith". "Thanks you too". Smith said, as he left the store. Outside Apple Bloom walked back over to the park while eating her candy apple, but when she got there she noticed that Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt were gone. Confused she wondered futher into the park, but it became clear that they weren't there. In a panic Apple Bloom rushed into the the city calling out for anyone. "Hello! Miss Cheerlie? Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, Anypony"! But there was no reply, and there were so many ponies around. Apple Bloom vision became blurry as it seemed like all the ponies seemed to mergened into one giant mass. She began to hyperventilate, and sat near the corner of one of the shops and began to shake. Being a young girl lost in a big city like Manehatten would have been scary for anyone in her situation. She then thought about her class, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt, they had worried sick, and her family she didn't want to think about what day would do if they found out she was missing. The thoughts plauged Apple Bloom's mind, as she began to hyperventalite even more. Now having a full blown panic attack Apple Bloom wondered what she should do. Realizing that getting panicing wouldn't help her in this situation. So, slowing down her breathing to small deep breaths Apple Bloom began to think of what to do next. That was when she got an idea. All she had to do, was go back to the train station and wait for them there. Meanwhile Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt walked out of a patch of woods in the park. "Fluttershy would have loved that". Twlight stated. "I know". Stated Reiner. He then looked around, and noticed Apple Bloom was still gone, Bertholdt noticed this as well. "Hey, where's Apple Bloom"? "Oh she went over to that candy store across the street, don't worry I'll go get her". Reiner stated. With that, he trotted over to the Candy shop, and headed over to the front desk where Ramsey, and Cali were still talking. "Excuse me". Reiner called out, causing Ramsey, and Cali to look at him. "Yes, how may I help you"? asked Ramsey "Have you seen a little filly with Red hair, and a pink bow"? Reiner asked. Ramesy and Cali looked at Reiner for a second before Ramesy cleared his throat. "Um yeah, but she left a while ago". A look of horror spread across Reiner's face, as he rushed out of the store, much to the shock and confusion of Cali and Ramesy. Reiner ran back out to the park. "Reiner, where's Apple Bloom"? asked Twilight. "They told me she left a while ago". Reiner replied. "WHAT"?! Twilight shouted. "But that means she's lost in this city". Bertholdt replied. Reiner nodded. "Well we have to find her then!" Twilight stated. With that, the three of them ran off in hopes of finding Apple Bloom, completely unaware that Karen was listening in on their conversation. "So, those three know that little brat, if I follow them, then I'll find that filly, and there's nothing they'll be able to do to stop me". She snickered evily as she followed Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt. Elsewhere, Apple Bloom was trotting through the city, making her way back to the train station. She had manged to calm herself down from her intial panic, and just slowly walked, doing her best to avoid anypony near her. However she also wasn't paying attention to where she was going, and this resulted in her bumping into someone else, knocking her down. Apple Bloom was about to apologize when she heard a female voice. "My god are you alright"? The voice asked. Apple Bloom looked up, and saw a filly a little older then her looking down. Apple Bloom quickly nodded her head, and stood up. The two of them stared at eachother for a bit before the new filly spoke up. "So, are you okay"? the girl asked Apple Bloom shook her head. "No I lost my class". Apple Bloom replied. The filly looked at her in concern "Well where did you last see them?" She asked "We came here on the train, and I was heading back to the station to wait for them". Apple Bloom responded "The filly nodded. "So, what's your name"? she asked "My name's Apple Bloom". Apple Bloom replied. The filly smiled. "Hello Apple Bloom, my name's Rayana". The filly responded. Apple Bloom smiled back. "Nice to meet ya". she replied. "So Apple Bloom, why don't I help you find your friends, okay"? asked Rayana. Apple Bloom stared up at her, unsure of what to say. Rayana noticed this. "Hey don't worry about it, you really look like you need some help anyways". Rayana replied. Apple Bloom thought for a moment before decieding that getting help would probably be best. So she nodded her head. Rayana smiled, and the two of them headed off in search of the rest of the school. Meanwhile, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt had just run into the other students. All who were all waiting at the meeting area. They hoped Apple Bloom would be there, but she wasn't. That was when they realized they never told her where the meeting place was. Cheerlie looked up at them, and saw the distressed look on their faces. "What's the matter she asked"? "Apple Bloom's missing"! Twilight exclaimed. Cheerlie gasped after hearing this. "Are you quite certain". She asked "Yes! We were hoping she was here, but that doesn't seem to be the case". Reiner responeded. "Do you have any idea where she could be". asked Bertholdt. Cheerlie shook her head. "No I don't, this is terrible, she's just a little filly, who knows what could happen to her". "Which is why we need to find her". Twilight stated. Cheerlie nodded in response. "But where do we even started looking"? she asked. "How about the train station"? Said Coconut Cream. Everyone turned to look at her as she continued. "Since we came here by train, she might have gone back to where we first arrived". Coconut Cream explained. "Coconut Cream, you're a genius". Reiner exclaimed". "Why didn't we think to look there first"? Twilight blurted while face palming herself. Now that they had an idea on where to go, all of the headed stright for the train station. Unaware that Karen, was still watching them, snickering deviously. Meanwhile, Apple Bloom, and Rayanana were both still walking down to the station when Rayanana stopped all of a sudden. "Rayanana, are you okay". Apple Bloom asked. Rayanana nodded. "Yeah, just tired. I think it's best if we rest for a little bit, come on I know a place we can go". Rayanana led Apple Bloom to another park. It wasn't like the other one with a playground for little kids, this one was more like a nature park with flowers, and lots of animals. It made Apple Bloom forget for a bit that she was in a big city. "Woah, this place is beautiful". Apple Bloom admired. "That it is. I always love coming here when I need to get away from the hussle and bussle of living in a big city. Rayana stated. Apple Bloom smiled, as this place brought back a memmory for her. "You know, my mother would always sing a song to me about places like this". she stated. Apple Bloom then started singing a soft melodey. Naiintindihan mo ba? Mayroon doong magandang balon Punta, ka lang dito Halika, at maupo Halika, at maupo Lalalala Lalalala Meanwhile. The class was still looking when Twist heard Apple Bloom singing. She turned and saw the path to the park "Everypony, Apple Bloom is in this park". She exclaimed "How do you know"? Asked Twilight. "Because, listen". Twist replied. Everyone went silent and listened. That was when they heard the singing. "She's right, that is Apple Bloom I recgoinze that singing voice anywhere". Toola Roola stated. Back in the park, Rayanana couldn't help but smile at Apple Bloom's song. "Wow Apple Bloom you have an amzaing singing voice". she complemented. Apple Bloom smiled. "Thank you Rayanana. Just then, they heard Twilight's voice call out. "Apple Bloom"! Apple Bloom, and Rayanana turned to see Miss. Cheerlie, and the others. "Everyone"! Apple Bloom shouted as she rushed over to the group. "What happened to you"?! Reiner Demanded "When I came out of the store you three we're gone. So I was going to head back to the train station to wait for you there". "We had decieded to go walking on a nature trail"? Twilight explained. "Why didn't you just wait for us"? asked Bertholdt "I'm sorry, but I didn't know what else to do"? Apple Bloom apolgoized. Reiner sighed. "Well I guess It's mostly our fault, I should have gone into the store to tell you that you we're going to have to wait for us". It was then they noticed Rayanana. "And who are"? asked Reiner. "My name's Rayana". Rayanana Replied. "Well, thanks for looking after Apple Bloom". Reiner said. "No problem, it was nice having somepony to talk to". Rayanana Stated. The group spent the next twenty minutes talking with Rayanana, and admiring the beauty of the park. Finally Miss Cheerlie stood up. "Well, children, the day is almost over, and it's aboutt time we headed back to the train station". Everyone stood up, Apple Bloom waved goodbye to Rayanan who had decieded to take a different path out of the park. The students and staff of Ponyville Junior High just made it to the park exit, when all of a sudden Apple Bloom was grabbed by Karen, and pulled back causing her to yelp. "Hey! Let go of me"! Apple Bloom exclaimed causing everyone to turn around and stare at Karen. "Hey let her go"! Twilight exclaimed. "NEVER! She's coming with me, and you'll never see her again". Karen cackled. That confused, and frightened Apple Bloom. "Why are you doing this"? she asked. Karen threw Apple Bloom to the ground, and began yelling. as Reiner, Twilight, and Bertholdt ran over to her. "Because your a little brat. You purposley Assaulted me, and lie about it. Not to mention all the things I've seen you do. The way you act, at school, how you assaulted that mare with apples. Oh and the way you sleep at night, and all the other things you do in your home". Karen exlcaimed. The whole class was shocked. "Oh my god. Murmmerd Twist. "I can't believe it". whispered Toola Roola. Karen smirked smuggly. "See that, now your classmates know what you really". She was intterupted by Twilight, who was staring daggers at her. "You've been stalkng her"? Twilight asked. Karen looked at her and chuckled. Yes, for severeal months. I've been watching this little brat". Karen admitted. That made Twilight livided. This woman had been creepily following Apple Bloom for many months, and was probably watching her do other things as well. Things Twilight didn't want to think of. "You. BITCH"! Twilight exclaimed as she lunged at Karen, only for Reiner, Bertholdt, and Cheerlie to hold her back. "Twilight don't it's not worth it"! Reiner exlcaimed as Twilight despertley tried to break herself free, and get to Karen. "ENOUGH"! A voice yelled out Everypony stopped, and turned around to see Smith standing with his pistol raised. "Everypony step back now". he demanded The students of Ponyville Junior high did as they were told, except for Apple Bloom, who was still on the ground, confused by the situation, and Karen, who ran up to Smith, and began putting on the victim charade "Oh officer thank goodness you're here, these little". Smith however cut her off. "Karen, you are under arrest for assualt, stalking, attempted kidnapping, lying to a police officer, and severel other charges. You're going away for a long time". Smith stated as he stepped infront of Apple Bloom to shield her from Karen. Karen's face turned from smug, to eranged. "No, no. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO"! She screamed as she lunged at Apple Bloom. In a quick reflex, Smith pulled out his gun, and shot Karen in the chest, killing her instantly, and shocking all the students and staff. "I need an medical team here stat". Smith called over his radio." He then turned to Apple Bloom who looked up at him. "Hey, I saw you at the store". Apple Bloom stated "Are you okay kid". Smith asked. Apple Bloom nodded "Yeah, I'm fine, just a little shook up, thank you". Smith smiled, and walked over to Cheerlie. "Listen, I think it's best if your students left. My team and I can handle things here. Smith stated, as he looked over at Karen's body". Cheerlie simply nodded and led the students back to the train station, though Apple Bloom did take one last glance at Karen. On the train ride back to ponyville, Apple Bloom was thinking about what happend, when someone spoke to her. "Um, Apple Bloom"? Apple Bloom turned around to see Sweetie Belle, and an orange pegagus standing next to her. "Oh hello Sweetie Belle, what can I do for you"? she asked. Sweetie Belle looked at Apple Bloom strigaht in the eyes and motioned to the pony next to her. "This is Scootaloo". Scootloo waved at Apple Bloom, who smiled at her. "Nice to meet ya". Apple Bloom replied. "Anyways". Scootaloo stated. "We have a propasistion for you". Apple Bloom looked at her in confusion, but urged Scootaloo to continue. "It's about your speech at Diamond Tiara's cute cenerea". Scootaloo said. Apple Bloom blushed in embarssement at the thought. "You two heard what I said at the cute cenera?" she gulped nervously thinking they were friends of Diamond Tiara, and were here to threathen her. But then Scootaloo spoke up. "Yes, and, well". She, and Sweetie Belle showed Apple Bloom their flanks, revealing that they didn't have their cutie marks either. "Wait, you two are blank flanks too"?! Scootaloo nodded. "We wanted to get to know you, so you could join are club, and we could get our cutie marks together". Scootaloo explained. "So, what do you say Apple Bloom, will you do it"? asked Sweetie Belle. A big smile formed on Apple Bloom's face. "You betcha"! she exclaimed as she pulled Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo into a big hug/ "Angel". Sweetie Belle said internially". "Goddess". Scootaloo said internially. Apple Bloom gave the two of them a big smile. "She's. So. Cute!" they both said in their thoughts. Back in Ponyville, Applejack was waiting at the station, when the train pulled up. Once it stopped, all the students got off, and Apple Bloom immeditedly went over to her sister. "Applejack"! Applejack smiled at Apple Bloom. "Hey there little sis, how was the trip"? Applejack asked. "It was amazing, and I made some new friends". Apple Bloom stated. "Well I'll be, that's incredible". Applejack replied. Apple Bloom smiled. "We're going to work hard to get our cutie marks"! "Really, well that's mighty fine, do you have a name for your little club"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom nodded. "We call ourselves". "THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS"! she, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all said together. The three fillies and Applejack all laughed, as Twilight resited her letter to the princess. Dear Princess Celestia, I'm happy to report that one of your youngest subjects Apple Bloom, has made some new friends. I believe she is going to achieve great things in her search for her cutie mark, but only time will tell. Until then I will keep you updated. Your faithful student Twilight Sparkle Reiner walked over to Twilight. "Today sure was tirining". he stated. Twilight nodded. "Yeah, I think I need to go home and take a nap". Twilight, and Reiner both laughed. Preview Applejack and Rainbow Dash's riviarly comes to a head during the anual running of the leaves. Leading to many problems for both of them. Next Episode. Fall Weather Friends. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Eren Yeager (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Carla Yeager (Flashback within a flashback) Dina Fritz (Flashback within a flashback) Apple Bloom Granny Smith Big Macintosh Applejack Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Drops Mr Cake. Mrs. Cake Burnt Oak Mayor Mare Samatha Cheerliee Twilight Sparkle Diamond Tiara Silver Spoon Sweetie Belle Scootaloo Twist Snips Toola Roola Coconut Cream Snails Featherweight Rumble Petunia Paleo Shady Daze Rainy Feather Dinky Doo Cotton Cloudy Bright Macintosh (Flashback) Dr. Whooves (Flashback) Rainbow Dash (Flashback) Pinkie Pie (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Hange Zoe (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Hannes (Flashback) Moblit Berner (Flashback) Historia Reiss (Flashback) Marcel Galliard (Flashback) Karina Braun (Flashback) Minnuete Karen (Killed) Smith Ramsey Cali Rayana Pear Butter (Flashback)
Episode 20: Fall Weather Friends: Gala arc Part 13It was a bright morning at Sweet Apple Acres. Rainbow Dash, and Applejack were in the middle of a horseshoe tossing compettion with Apple Bloom watching on. Dash was up first. She took a deep breath, reared up, and tossed the horseshoe. It landed a few feet away from the ring, but close enough for Rainbow to be proud. "Whoo-hoo"! She exclaimed exclaimed. "Hoo-wee! Not a bad pitch for a pony who works with her head in the clouds". Applejack smirked. "Oh yeah? Think you can do better"? Rainbow Dash scoffed. "I know I can". Applejack stated, her voice full of confindice. She took a deep breath, and tossed the horshoe, only for it to land behind Rainbow Dash's causing the pegagus to smirk. "Heh! Looks like this Pegasus can pitch better than the workhorse. The object of the game is to get the closest to the stake". Dash stated, causing Applejack to grumble, but the earth pony wasn't going to let that deter her. She turned to Apple Bloom, who was watching from the distance with a huge smile on her face. "I'm gonna win this for her Applejack thought to herself, before turning to face Rainbow Dash. "All right, all right. You got another throw there, pony girl". Rainbow Dash threw the horshoe, but this time it flew over the the stake, and land in some bushes. Now it was Applejack's turn to smirk. "Wow, Rainbow, heh. You couldn't hit a barn door with that kind of a throw"! She said sarcasticly, making Apple Bloom giggle. Applejack then picked up her last horseshoe, and tossed it. This time it landed right on the stake making Applejack the winner of the competiton. "Yee-haw! It's a ringer. That's how you do it down here on the farm". Applejack cheered as Rainbow Dash stared in shock. "I lost". The pegagus realized finally after a few seconds. "Ah, don't feel bad, Rainbow. It's all in good fun". AJ tried to reassure her. "I hate loosing". Dash simply muttered under her breath. Applejack however took no noticed, and simply walked of towards where Apple Bloom was waiting. "Besides, you're a mighty good athlete. I'm just better. Heh heh heh". Applejack teased. That caused Rainbow Dash to look up, and glare at Applejack. "What did you just say"? Dash asked with a hint of anger in her voice that Applejack noticed. "I said, I'm. A. Better. Athlete. Then. You!" she said in a way that made Rainbow Dash's blood boil. "I dare you to say that to my face". Rainbow Dash said indimdiling as she flew at AJ. "Glady"! Applejack retorted. Apple Bloom, noticing that things were getting heated, quickly put herself in the middle of the two older mares. "Please don't fight you two". Applejack sighed, and pulled back. "She's right Dash, we can't settle this by arguing with each other, so what do you propose we do." she asked. Rainbow Dash thought for a moment, then an idea flew into her head. "Well, you think you're the best athlete in all of ponyville right"? "I was actually going to say all of Equestria but that might be gildin' the lily". Applejack replied. "Right, and I think I'm the best. So insted of just fighting, how about we see who's the best". "What do you mean". asked Applejack. "I challange to an Iron Pony competition. A series of athletic contests to decide who's the best, once and for all". Rainbow Dash stated. Applejack thought for a moment, before decieding that she liked the idea very much. "You know what, Rainbow? You're on, but we need to set things up for the contest, and we're also going to need somepony to judge. Fourtently I happen to know two ponies who'd be great for the job". "Oh yeah? Who's that?" Rainbow Dash asked. Applejack turned to her little sister. "Apple Bloom, head into town, and fetch Twilight Sparkle, and Reiner Braun". Apple Bloom trotted into town, and headed for the golden oak libaray where see saw Twilight, Spike and Reiner talking. The little filly walked up to the three of them, and called out to them. "Ms. Twilight, Mr. Braun, Spike"! The three of them turned over to see Apple Bloom walking towards them. "Yes Apple Bloom, what do you need"? asked Reiner. "Can you three come to the farm please". Apple Bloom asked. This garnered confused looks from both them. "What for"? asked Twilight. "To be judges of course" Apple Bloom replied chipperly. This confused Twilight Spike, and Reiner even more, but curiosity got the better of them, and they decieded to go with Apple Bloom to see what she was talking about. Arriving at Sweet Apple Acres, the four of them saw Applejack, who was watching Rainbow Dash doing push ups. They walked over to AJ, who turned and smiled. "Hi Applejack, Apple Bloom says you needed us for something"? Twilight asked. Applejack nodded. "Yep". "And what is that exactly"? asked Reiner. "We're having an iron". Applejack began only for Dash to intterupt her. "An Iron Pony competition". Twilight, Spike, and Reiner looked at Dash in confuison. Seeing this, Apple Bloom spoke up. "They're trying to see who the most atheletic pony in all of ponyvile is, so they plan to have a serious of sports competitions". She explained. "Oh I get it. Iron Pony". Reiner realized. "Thank you Apple Bloom". Twilight smiled at the filly. "Hey I'm the one who told you what we we're doing"! Dash exclaimed in somewhat offense. "Like I said, thank you Apple Bloom". Twilight repeated, causing the filly to blush as Twilight, and Reiner turned to Applejack and Rainbow Dash. "And why are we here again". Asked Reiner. "To be our judges and keep score. Applejack explained. "That's right. Somepony's gotta record my awesomeness for the history books". Rainbow Dash stated A few minutes later, the contest was begining. "Hello everypony, and welcome to the first annual Iron Pony competition"! Spike announced, causing Twilight to look at him in confusion. "Spike? Who are you talking to?" she asked Spike, realzing no one was there began to panic. "Um... uh". Luckily for him, he noticed some ponies coming up to the farm. "Them"! he exclaimed as Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt Hoover walked up the path. "Let the games begin"! Spike exclaimed exciedtly as the mane 8 minus Twilight, and Reiner cheered. The first event was a race. Applejack, and Rainbow Dash had to run in between several barrels, and get to the end. Whoever got to the finish line in the least amount of time would be declared the winner. AJ was up first. "Ready. Set. Go"! Twilight exclamied. Applejack took off. For a while she was doing pretty well, but she ended up bumping one of the barrels before she crossed the finish line. "Dagnabbit". She muttered under her breath as the others walked over to her. "Time Spike". asked Reiner. "17 seconds". Spike replied. Applejack gasped in both shock, and delight. "You're kiddin'! That breaks my record from last year's rodeo." But her excitment didn't last long, as Spike continued. "But you got a five second penalty for nudging the barrel". Applejack sighed. "Nuts, and Chews"! she cursed, but quickly composed herself. "Still, that's twenty-two seconds. Not too shabby". Applejack turned to Rainbow Dash, who seemed to be a little nervous. "Hey, don't be nervous. Remember, it's all in good fun. Now git on up there". Rainbow Dash walked up to the starting line. "Ready. Set. Go!" Twilight exclaimed again. Rainbow Dash ran in between the barrels, however unlike Applejack, Dash didn't hit a singal one, and made it across the finish line. "Woo! That was some fancy hoofwork there, Rainbow!" Aj complemented. "Thanks, but I couldn't have been as fast as you". Dash replied. Applejack turned to Spike to see how long it took for Rainbow Dash to get to the other side. "What's the time Spike". Spike looked at the clock, and gasped. "18 seconds"! he exclaimed. Both Applejack, and Rainbow Dash gasped in shock, as the farm pony turned to Rainbow Dash with a smile on her face. "18 seconds. Rainbow, are you sure you're not secretly a rodeo pony? Applejack asked. "Rainbow Dash wins the barrel lead!" Reiner stated. "Oh, I can't believe I won". Rainbow Dash stated in total suprise. "Yeah, well, don't you go gettin' used to it". Applejack reminded her. The next compettion was to see who could buck a high striker harder, more ponies had come down to watch the contest. This time Dash was up first, she kicked the thing, and the bell rang. Everypony cheered as Rainbow did a little victory dance before going over to AJ who was resting under a tree. "Mighty respectable". Applejack smirked before getting up. "But let me show you how it's really done". She stated. Applejack walked up to the high striker, and bucked it so hard that the bell shot off, and part of it broke. Everypony cheered as Rainbow Dash looked on in complete shock. Next, both Applejack and Rainbow Dash had to try and buck Spike off of their backs. Spike however wasn't too thrilled about this. "Why me". he mutterd. "GO"! Twilight called out, and Applejack began. "Whoa! Whoa! Whoa-hoa! Whoa! Spike yelled out, before he was finally bucked off. "Whoaaa"! He landed in a stack of hey "Ouch ". he groaned, but no time to relax, as Rainbow Dash had been waiting in the stack. "Ready for another pony ride"? she asked. "No". Spike muttered, but it was too late. "GO"! Twilight exclaimed. Rainbow Dash began moving really fast, much faster then Applejack "Guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh guh". Finally Spike was launched off. "Guhwhoaaaaaa!" "Rainbow Dash wins the bronco buck"! Reiner stated. "And I loose". Spike gronaed. The next event was a lasso compettion, with the goal being to lasso Spike, who was none too please with the situation he had been put in. Eventually he was lassoed by Applejack "How did I get roped into this". Spike asked bitterly. The audiance then turned to Rainbow Dash who had manged to tie herself up in a tree. "Does this count"? she asked before falling out of the tree. Spike meanwhile was untied by Apple Bloom, who looked at him with concern as the small dragon vented "I can't believe they're using me as their little guinea pig to win this contest"! he ranted. Apple Bloom gave him a small smile. "Hey don't feel so bummed Spike, you're being a really big help". she told him. Spike looked up at Apple Bloom, her amber eyes sparkling as she smiled at him, he smiled back knowing she was right. With that he walked off to help out however he could. The next competition was to see who could balance, and bounce more balls. Rainbow Dash won that one. After that it was tossing hay bales. Winner, Applejack. Hoof wrestling. Winner, Rainbow Dash. Bucking a football. Winner, Applejack Finally the contest made it to the halfway point as Spike continued to announce to the crowd. "Fillies and gentlecolts, at the halfway point, our competitors are tied at five and five". "Who are you talking too"? Twilight asked in confusion. "Them"! Spike replied as Twilight looked up and noticed the crowd. Next they we're doing push ups, with Twilight Counting. "Ninety-five, ninety-six, ninety-seven, ninety-eight, ninety-nine..." Applejack was forced to stop. "A hundred"! Twilight counted for Rainbow Dash. "Yes"! Dash cheered. "Be a good sport Applejack". The farm pony mumbled. Next was a long jump. First was Applejack who manged to jump pretty far. Now it was Rainbow Dash's turn. She ran forward and leaped, however when she saw that she was about to loose, she used her wings to cheat, and win the contest, however Applejack was the only one who noticed, but she decieded not to say anything. Next they had to walk baby chicks on their backs across some mud in order to get them to their mothers. The chicks that were on Applejack were getting pretty muddy, so they decieded to go over to Rainbow Dash, who once again, was using her wings to shield the chicks from the mud. This frustrated Applejack, but she tried to not let it show. Finally they we're at the finally event, a tug of war. Twilight stood in the middle of the two. "All right, you two. This is the final event. Give it all you've got." she told them. Rainbow Dash, and Applejack both started pulling and tugging as hard as they could, and it seemed like Applejack was going to win. "Looks like the workhorse might come out ahead in this one." Spike stated. That was until Rainbow Dash used her wings to fly up in the sky, liffting Applejack off the ground. "That's not fair. You can't use your wings to help you win"! Applejack protested. Rainbow Dash however pretented that she couldn't understand Applejack. "What was that"? she asked. "You're cheatin"! Applejack accused. "I can't understand you with that rope in your mouth"! Stated. That caused Applejack to open let go of the rope so that Dash could "Understand her". "I said"! But AJ stopped once she realized her error. "Uh oh". Applejack fell, landing in the mud with a loud splash. "Rainbow in the meantime cheered. " Whoo-hoo! I win by a landslide...". Apple Bloom trotted up to Applejack and helped her out of the mud, just a Rainbow Dash flew down to them. "Heh, or mudslide in your case". she sneered before flying up into the air. "I am the Iron Pony". Rainbow Dash declared. "Only cause you cheated". Applejack stated causing Rainbow Dash to look at her. "What"? She asked, venom in her voice as she got into Applejack's face. "You used your wingpower to help you win over half those contests"! Applejack stated. "Sounds like sour apples to me". Dash retorted. "Are you sayin' you didn't use your wings?" Applejack asked. "Welll... no. But you never said I couldn't use my wings. Rainbow Dash defeneded. "I didn't think I needed to tell you to play fair". Applejack argued. Things were beginning to get out of hoof, so Twilight, Reiner, and Apple Bloom got in between the two of them "Both of you stop right now"! Reiner scolded. "Yeah there's no need for this". Twilight repremanded. "She used her wings to cheat"! Applejack accused. "You never said that I couldn't"! Rainbow Dash retorted. Apple Bloom looked up at her big sister. "Rainbow Dash is right Applejack, you never said she couldn't use her wings". "See even your little sister agrees with"! Rainbow Dash stated. This however caused Apple Bloom to turn to her. "But still Dash, you should have known better then to use them to cheat". Apple Bloom stated sternly. "I... uh". Rainbow Dash stuttered as Apple Bloom raised her eyebrow at her. "Well I still would have won without my wings"! Rainbow Dash stated. That caused Applejack to chuckle. "Hah! Prove it". "Gladly"! Rainbow Dash replied. "How"? she asked after not knowing what to do exactaly. Applejack smiled. "Tomorrow is the annual Runnin' of the Leaves. I challenge you to race me in it" Applejack stated. Rainbow Dash just smirked. "Heh! Easy shmeasy". She replied. "Hold on! There is one condition: the point is to run, so no wings allowed". Applejack reminded. Rainbow Dash thought for a momment before replying. "No wings? No problem." The two of the bumped hooves, agreeing to the condtitions of the race. Currently Pubilcly Avalablie Information Running of the Leaves. An anual race taking place in ponyville. Ponies run through a large forest of trees. The objective of the race is not to get to the finish line first, it's to knock down all the leaves off of the trees. The next morning rolled in at Sweet Apple Acres, as Applejack slept in her bed, but she soon heard a voice calling her name. "Applejack. Applejack"! Applejack groaned. "Eh five more minutes". she mutterd as she pulled the covers over her, only for them to be yanked off. That caused Applejack to shoot awake. She looked around and saw Apple Bloom standing at the sighed of her bed with a very stern look on her face. "Come on, you need to get up if you're going to make it to the running of the leaves". Apple Bloom reminded. Applejack's eyes widened in horror. "Oh my god you're right! I almost forgot"! she exclaimed as she got out of bed, and rushed towards the door. "Breakfast is on the table. I worked very hard on it so you'd better eat it". Apple Bloom called out. Applejack turned to her little sister. "Apple Bloom, I really appriecate that but". Apple Bloom intterupted her, "No buts! You won't be able to run on an empty stomach". "Apple Bloom please". Applejack began, but stopped as soon as she saw Apple Bloom glaring at he. "You know what, I am feeling a might hungry, so I think I'll uh....... Go have some breakfeast yeah"! Applejack stated as she rushed downstairs. Apple Bloom simply smiled and started to make Applejack's bed. Meanwhile at the Golden Oak Library Twilight and Spike walked out of the treehouse, on the way to the starting line. Twilight however stopped briefly to look at a butterfly. This frustrated Spike. "Twilight, hurry up, we're gonna be late for the race"! He complained. This made Twilight look up at him in confusion, "Why are you so excited about the race? It's only for ponies"? "Yeah, but I'm hoping I can be the announcer again. Just listen: fillies and gentlecolts, welcome to the annual Running of the--" Spike began, until. " Welcome to the annual Running of the Leaves! This is Pinkie Pie, your official p-eye-in-the-sky announcer"! Spike and Twilight looked up to see that Pinkie Pie was already up in a hot air ballon doing the annoucing. Spike looked down in dissapointment as Twilight tried to comfort him. " Sorry, Spike. I guess that job's already taken." Meanwhile Pinkie Pie continued "As everypony knows, the Running is a very important tradition, for without it, the autumn leaves of Equestria would never fall. So get ready, ponies. The Running of the Leaves will begin in five minutes." Twilight made her way to the starting line. As she walked up she spotted Bertholdt and Reiner, also heading up to the starting line. "Hey you guys"! Twilight called out. The two stallions turned around and smiled at Twilight. "Ah Twilight. I figured you'd be here". Reiner stated. Twilight giggled. "So are you two racing two"? She asked. "That's right, we wouldn't miss this for the world". Bertholdt replied. Twilight smiled, and the three of the made their way to the starting line. Applejack was already there, doing some last minute stretches. She also had Apple Bloom to thank, her little sister had been right, now that she had a full stomach, Applejack was more then ready to win the race. She kept stretching until Rainbow Dash came strutting in. "Pardon me, excuse me. Make way for the Iron Pony". "The Iron Phony, you mean". Applejack muttered as Rainbow Dash walked up to her. "So, Applejack, you ready to win second place"? Dash taunted. "I'm ready to run a good, clean race." Applejack replied. "Yeah, yeah..." Dash muttered not caring in the slightest. "You are not allowed to use your wings." Applejack reminded her. Rainbow Dash simply scoffed. "I could win this race with both wings tied behind my back." That gave Applejack an idea. She then quite litterley tied Rainbow Dash's wings behind her back. "Trussed up like a turkey. Well, a turkey who can't fly, that is." AJ Smirked. "Very funny". Dash grumbled "Least now we know we're racin' fair and square." Applejack stated just as Pinkie Pie started annoucing again. "Racers! Please take your positions!" Then Spike walked up to her. "Um... Pinkie Pie?" "Hey, Spike! What's up?" She asked, but then she realized that it was her. "Oh wait, it's me, I'm up". She laughed. Spike then contiuned. "Uh, yeah. I know you're doing the announcing today and stuff and... I'm sure you're gonna do a great job and all, but... I was just wondering..." "What"? Pinkie Pie asked. Spike realizing it was pointless just sighed. "Aw forget it". he said as he began walking away. Pinkie Pie however was able to realize what Spike wanted. "Spike, would you like to be my co-reporter? We could comment on the action together." Pinkie Pie told him "We could"? Spike asked excitedly. Pinkie Pie just through down the ladder to the hot air baloon, which Spike happily climbed. Back at the starting line, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash we're both complety shocked seeing Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt also at the starting line. "Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt? What in sam hell are you three doing up here"? AJ aksed. "We're racing". Twilight replied. This made Rainbow Dash burst out laughing. "Good one, Twilight." "We're not joking". Reiner replied Now Dash was shocked. "What? But Twilight's not an athlete she's an egghead, and Bertholdt isn't really that strong of a flyer. Infact the only one of you I can see having a chance in this race is you Reiner". Rainbow Dash replied. The egghead response got on Twilight's nerves. " I am not an egghead, I am well-read." She defeneded. "Egghead". Dash whispered to AJ, who chuckled "But have you three ever run a race"? The farm pony asked them. "Both Reiner and I have". Bertholdt Replied. "What about you Twilight". Applejack asked. "Well, no, but I do know a lot about running". Twilight replied. "And you know this from..." Rainbow Dash asked, already knowing the answer to her question. "Books. I've read several on the subject". Twilight replied. This once again made Dash laugh. "What'd you read, "The Egghead's Guide to Running"? Did you stretch out your eye muscles to warm up? Get it? Eye muscles. Twilight just rolled her eyes "Scoff if you must, Rainbow. But the Running of the Leaves is a Ponyville tradition, and since I'm here to learn, I've decided I should experience it myself". she stated. Applejack smiled at the three of them. "Well, I think that's just dandy, Twilight. Good luck. Same too Reiner, and Bertholdt". she stated, before snickering as well. Dash just snickered. "Yeah. See you three at the finish line... tomorrow". The racers all walked up to the starting line. Pinkie Pie and Spike were just about to give the go ahead, when all of a sudden, a voice stopped them. "You guys!" Twilight, Reiner, Spike, Bertholdt, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash, along with the other ponies present turned to see Apple Bloom happily running towards, wearing a cheerleading outfitt, and had a huge smile on her face. Her eyes, hair, as well as the surrounding area seemed to sparkle as she arrived. "Sorry I'm late took me a while to get change". She's, so cute". Twilight, Pinkie, Spike, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash all thought. Sweetie Belle then appeared next to Apple Bloom, also in a cheerleading outfitt, and smiling too. "This was a great idea Apple Bloom". Sweetie Belle stated. Then the voice of Scootaloo spoke up from a distance. Like the other two, she had a cheerleading outfitt on, but unlike the other two, she wasn't smiling at looke rather uncomfortble. "Um, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle. I think I wanna go home and change". She stated. Apple Bloom just smiled, and walked behind Scootaloo. "Don't be that way, it's normal to feel self conscious. You'll get over it, besides think about it, cheerleading cutie marks would be perfect". She stated as she gentley pushed Scootaloo forward. "Look I'm telling you I can hardly breath in this damn thing". Scootaloo protested, as Apple Bloom turned to face the runners. The little earth pony then throw her hooves and pompoms up. "Alright everypony get on out there and welcome the autumm season!" She cheered happily. "YEAH! LETS DO THIS! Shouted a random stalion. Pinkie Pie, and Spike saw that as their cues. "All right, ponies, are you ready?" Pinkie Pie started. "Get set". Spike finished. "GO"! They both shouted as a bell rang, and the runners started running. "And they're off! Welcome to the official coverage of the Running of the Leaves!" Pinkie Pie stated before turning to Spike. "Why, yes, Pinkie, it's the running of the ponies that causes the leaves to fall." Spike replied. Pinkie Pie scoffed. " Ugh. Those lazy, lazy leaves. But this year, the run is about more than the weather. It's about the race to the finish and the two runners who want to win it: Applejack and Rainbow Dash". Spike nodded. "You know, Pinkie, these two ponies have a bit of a grudge match they're trying to settle. Trying to prove who's the most athletic.". "Yes, and Grudge rhymes with Fudge". Pinkie Pie nodded in agreement. "Yes, it... does. What?" Spike asked in confusion. Pinkie paid his confuison no mind and just continued on. "And I like fudge. But if I eat too much fudge I get a pudge and then I can't budge." "So... no fudge"? Spike asked. "Oh, no thanks I had a big breakfest". Pinkie Replied before looking back down at the race. "Let's check in with our two competitive ponies, Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Having come fast out of the gate, Applejack and Rainbow Dash are evenly matched running neck and neck." Pinkie Pie stated, until Applejack pushed head. "But what's this? Applejack is making a move, she's now ahead by a nose." Pinkie said. Then Rainbow Dash pulled ahead as Pinkie Pie kept commentating on the event. "But Rainbow Dash won't let Applejack have it and takes the lead. She's ahead by half a nose. Or maybe three quarters of a nose. No, about sixty-three point seven percent of a nose... roughly speaking". Again Applejack pushed past Rainbow Dash. "Applejack sees this move and pushes forth with her strong workhorse legs slinking ahead by three hundred and fifty noses"! Applejack turned to Rainbow Dash with a smug look on her face. "Not so easy without wings, is it"? She snickered before running ahead of Dash again. Rainbow Dash grimiced. "Come on Rainbow, show 'em a little dash". She murmmered before rushing forward. " Ho-hold your horses, Pinkie! Rainbow Dash is catching up the frontrunner Applejack!" Spike pointed out. "What an upset! I thought Applejack had this in the bag". Pinkie Pie stated. Rainbow Dash with all her might then ran past Applejack. "You didn't think I was gonna let you off that easily, did you?" Dash taunted as she raced past Applejack. Applejack, not wanting to let Dash win, starting running so fast, and hard that she didn't see the rock in her way. Applejack tripped over the rock, and landed with a hard thud. Her trip up allowed for all the racers to rush past her. Applejack stood up, having not seen the rock she thought Rainbow Dash had tripped her. "I don't believe it". she exclaimed, just as Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt walked up. "I know, beautiful isn't it". Twilight stated admiring the surronding area. "Not the scenery, Twilight. Rainbow Dash just tripped me". Applejack said acussingly. "No she didn't" Reiner argured. "Yes she did". Applejack argued back. "She did not"! Twilight stated. "She did too"! Applejack repeated. "Rainbow Dash did not trip you Applejack, if you had been paying attetion like the three of us, you would have seen you tripped over a rock. Reiner Stated. Applejack looked over and saw that they were right. "What? Oh, hayseed! Now I got a lot of ground to make up to catch Rainbow". She pointed out. They then heard the voice of Apple Bloom from up the hill. "Applejack! Fight on!" Apple Bloom cheered. "Yay"! Repiled Sweetie Belle. "Yeah, what they said". Stated Scootaloo less enthusacitly. Applejack ran off after the CMCs cheers in order to catch Rainbow Dash. "Be careful". Bertholdt called out as he Twilight, and Reiner continued walking. The colors of the leaves caused Twilight to smile at how pretty it was. "Isn't it wonderful you guys". She asked Reiner and Bertholdt. Reiner chuckled at Twilight excitement. "It sure is something". He responded. Twilight turned around and stared up at the leaves on the trees. She then began to sing. Look at the colors of the trees, and of the leaves on the ground. It's the autumm season and we're here to welcome it. Back near the starting line, Apple Bloom started Singing too. The weather is getting colder, and soon the days will be shorter, but this season has more meaning then just colors and trees. Soon they were both singing. There's tasty treats, and fun festivels, dressing up for nightmare night, Pumpkin Pie and Cider too, cause that's what autumm means to me. Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh [Apple Bloom] That's what autumm means to me. [Both] Woah Oh Oh Oh Woh Oh Oh Oh [Twilight Sparkle] That's what autumm means to me. Then Reiner began singing. A season like no other, can one really complain. Celebrations all around and fabulaos colors in the air. Followed by Pinkie Pie. And all around us ponies having fun, partying throughout the lands, to bring about this new season. Then Sweetie Belle. Fall is such a beautiful time of year, all the colors they dance in the sky. After that it was Scootaloo. Red, orange, and yellow. Mixing together in perfect harmony. Now it was both of them We love this time of year. Where friendships, and familes grow. and Everypony has a smile on their faces, cause that's what autumm means to me. [Spike] A time for tasty food, and hoofball games, a good time to spend with friends. [Bertholdt Hoover] Colors in the sky, make this season so grand. [All] Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me. [Reiner Braun] Sometimes there are moments when you feel alone. [Spike] But no matter what your friends are always there. [All] When you need a helping hoof. [Apple Bloom] Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me. [All] Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me. Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me. Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh That's what autumm means to me. Woah Oh Oh Oh Woah Oh Oh Oh. [Twilight Sparkle] That's what autumm means to me. Back near the front of the race, Rainbow Dash kept running, when all of a sudden she was shocked when Applejack rushed past her. "See you at the finish line"! Applejack taunted. From above in their baloon Spike and Pinkie Pie both looked on in shock as Applejack made it back into first place. "I don't believe it. After a huge setback, Applejack is back at the front of the pack". Spike exclaimed excitedly. "She's the head of the pack, all right. The pick of the litter! The cat's pajamas"! Pinkie Pie stated, but then she stopped and started to go off topic. "Oh wait, why would Applejack take some poor kitty's PJs? That's not very sporting of her". Pinkie pointed out. "Oookay... let's get back to the race." Spike said. Back on the ground, Rainbow Dash had caught up with Applejack. " Not so fast, Applejack! This race isn't over yet!" "It is for you! Heh!" Applejack stated as she pushed on ahead. Rainbow Dash began to speed up, there was no way she was going to let Applejack win this race. Rainbow Dash was going to prove to everyone that the most athlectic pony in ponyville, no in all of Equestria was her. However Rainbow Dash's ego clouded her vision so much that she failed to spot the the tree stump in the middle of the ground causing her trip much like how Applejack did a while back. This little mishap allowed for all the other racers to pass her putting the pegagus in last place. Rainbow Dash got up, and scowled angrily. "Guh, I don't believe it, Applejack tripped me." She accused, before hearing Twilight's voice call out to her. "Don't you ponies ever look where you're going? You tripped on a stump. See"? Twilight stated. Rainbow Dash turned to face, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt. "Oh, I see. A big cheater is what I see." Dash stated, clearly not believing what Twilight had said. "Rainbow, Applejack would never cheat. It was just an accident." Reiner said. "Sure it was". Dash replied sarcasticlay, but quickly correct herself when she saw the looks on their faces. "I mean, yeah, I'm sure it was.". That at least made Twilight smile. "Remember Rainbow, it's just a game". she pointed out, as she Reiner, and Bertholdt trotted off leaving Rainbow Dash. As soon as they were gone, Rainbow Dash smirked. "Yes, but the rules have changed, and two can play at that game". She murmmerd to herself. At the finish line, The CMCs were still cheerleading. "Fight On!" Apple Bloom cheered. "Yeah"! Cheered Sweetie Belle. "Um, Right". Scootaloo said, still slightly embarrased. Rainbow Dash eventually made it back to the start of the race, and was nearly catching up to Applejack. "Welcome back, Ponyvillians, it's me, Pinkie Pie." repiled the party pony. "And Spike. Looks like Rainbow is doing her best to catch up". Spike responded. This caused the pink earth pony to look at him in confusion. "I'm not sure how ketchup is going to help her in this contest. Now, in a hot dog eating contest it can make them doggies nice and slippery, but personally, I prefer mustard. How about you, Spike?" She asked. "Uh... I... like... pickles?" he replied unsurly. back on the ground, Rainbow Dash was beginning to pass Applejack, which Pinkie Pie took notice of. "Aaand it looks like Applejack has found herself in quite a pickle as Rainbow overtakes her". "Look ma, no wings". Dash taunted smugly as the two of them headed for a patch of woods. "As the racers enter Equestria's Whitetail Wood, Rainbow Dash is back in the lead." Spike stated. As the two of them raced, Rainbow Dash spotted a low hanging branch. Seeing that, caused a lightbulb to go off in her head. As she ran towards the branch, she grabbed it in her mouth, and pulled. The branch then swung back, and struck Applejack right in the face, knocking her back. She got up, and scowled at the pegagus pony. "Ugh. Hey, Rainbow!" AJ scolded. Rainbow Dash only spat at Applejack in response. That was when Applejack realized that what happened wasn't an accident. "Why, that little cheater did that on purpose." AJ then got an idea, if Rainbow Dash was going to cheat, then Applejack would cheat too. "It's on". she snickered evily. Applejack then used the branch herself to fling herself forward. Up ahead, Rainbow Dash smirked at her plan. "Nice one Rainbow Dash". she mutteterd to herself, only to be caught by suprise when Applejack zipped passed her. "Later"! The earth pony exclaimed. Now Applejack was back in the lead, she smiled to herself, before noticing one of the trees had a behive hanging from one of it's branches. Applejack went behind the tree, and kicked it. That action caused the hive of bees to fall right near Rainbow Dash, who ran for her life with the angry insects in hot pursuit. Rainbow Dash dove behind a bush, and manged to outsmart the bees. Once she was in the clear, Rainbow Dash took noticed of the sign that pointed in the direction the go. She snickered as she got an idea. She switched the sign so the arrow pointed up the moutain. Applejack fell for the trick, and ran up the mountain. Seeing Applejack fall for her trick made Rainbow Dash laugh and hug the sign. Unfourtenlty she didn't notice the other racers passing her. All of a sudden, Rainbow Dash heard Twilight's voice. "Oh my, Whitetail Wood is just lovely." Rainbow Dash turned around, and saw Reiner, Twilight, and Bertholdt heading her way. She quickly changed the sign back to the way it was, just as they arrived. "Hey Rainbow Dash. Shouldn't you be up front"? asked Reiner. "I'm sure I'll win now". Rainbow Dash snickered. "Except the other racers just passed you". Bertholdt pointed out. "Oh horse apples"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she sped off. Meanwhile, Applejack ran up the mountain, but ended up finding herself at the edge of a cliff. She looked around in confusion, before hearing Pinkie Pie's voice. "Applejack, what are you doing up here?" Pinkie Pie asked, as she and Spike floated towards Applejack. "There aren't even any trees up here". Spike replied. "I know, but the signs pointed this way". Applejack stated before realizing what happened. "Rainbow". she muttered angrily. She then looked up at Spike and Pinkie. "Mind giving me a lift"? she asked. So Pinkie Pie, and Spike let Applejack ride on the rope that was under the basket, and flew her back to the front of the line where Rainbow Dash was. The cyan pegagus looked up in shock and anger as Applejack jumped infront of her. "What the hay?! You said no flying!" Dash complained. "No I said no wings". AJ replied as she ran ahead. Meanwhile, Pinkie Pie, and Spike were still narrating. "I must say, Spike, that this has been the most interesting Running of the Leaves in Equestria history!" Pinkie Pie stated. "With the most interesting announcing". Spike mummbled to himself. "But it isn't the running that's been fascinating. It's the lack of running!" Pinkie Pie stated. Applejack then kicked down a bucket of sap causing Rainbow Dash to get stuck. Rainbow Dash pulled and struggled to get free, eventually she manged to fling herself far back, and zip towards Applejack. The speed that Rainbow Dash was going caused Applejack to spin into a small twister which eventually caught Rainbow Dash as well. Both of them spun out off the track, and up a small cliff before stopping on a ledge. The two of them glared at each other, but their weight was too much for the ledge to support, and it broke, causing both of them slide down the mountain, and land infront of Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt. "Forgive me, girls. I know I'm not an athlete, but shouldn't the Running of the Leaves actually involve running?" Twilight asked, as she and the two stalions trotted off. Rainbow Dash looked at Applejack and sighed. "You know, I think Twilight's right". "You do"? asked Applejack. Rainbow Dash nodded. "Yeah! If you wanna beat me, you better... RUUUN!" (Attack on Titan Plays) With that, Rainbow Dash sprinted off with Applejack chasing after her. Eventually the two of them were neck and neck, while Pinkie Pie, and Spike kept commentating. "Once again, Rainbow Dash and Applejack are neck and neck, jockeying for position. Applejack inches ahead, now it's Rainbow, it's Applejack, it's Rainbow Dash, it's Applejack..." Pinkie Pie narrated. Applejack, and Rainbow Dash saw they were nearing the finish line, that was Rainbow Dash decieded to play even more dirty, and bumped Applejack. "Oh no, she di'int!" Said Spike. Applejack then bumped Rainbow Dash back. "Oh yes, she di'id". Pinkie Pie replied. The two of them kept shoving each other. "Cut it out". Applejack demaneded, "No, you cut it out"! Rainbow Dash responded. "You started it"! Applejack pointed out. "And now I'm gonna finish it". Dash replied. "Oh no, you won't"! Applejack stated as she bit Rainbow Dash's tail, and yanked her back. "Oh yes, I will". Rainbow Dash said before doing the same thing to Applejack. Applejack then tried to bite Rainbow Dash's tail again, however she only manged to pull off the rope she had tied around Rainbow Dash's wings. Realizing she was free Rainbow Dash decieded that she was done playing fair. She was going to win even if she did it by cheating. "That's it! All bets are off!" Dash stated as she took to the sky. Applejack, also having enough jumped up after her. "Oh no you don't"! she exclaimed. Applejack and Rainbow Dash were now no longer running, they were rolling in a dust cloud, and fighting to the finish line, while Pinkie Pie kept narrating. "It's Applejack, it's Rainbow Dash, it's Applejack, it's Rainbow Dash--" The two of them crossed the finish line, and got up from their fight. "I won"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed happily. "No I won"! Applejack argued. "I won"! Rainbow Dash retorted. "You tied". Spike called out from the baloon. Rainbow Dash and Applejack looked up in confusion. "Tied?!" They exclaimed in shock. "For first"? asked AJ. "For last". Pinkie replied shocking both Rainbow Dash, and Applejack. "Last"?! They exclaimed in shock again. "Then who won"? That was when Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt came forward, shocking both Applejack, and Rainbow Dash. "You"?! They said in shock. Twilight smiled and shook her head. "Oh no, but I did get fifth place, Bertholdt got third, and Reiner got second. Also fifth place is rather good considering I've never run a race before". Twilight stated. That only confused Dash, and AJ more. "What? How's that even possible?" Applejack stated. "You three ran so slow, and looked at the scenery. Rainbow Dash replied. "Exactly, we paced ourselves". Reiner replied. "Then at the end, when all the other ponies were worn out, we sprinted to the finish." Bertholdt Replied. Rainbow Dash's mouth was a gap "I don't believe it. Twilight, Bertholdt, and Reiner beat us. "Well, with all your horsing around, it was quite easy". Twilight stated just as the CMCs came up to them. "Exactly, you two kept on fightin and cheating that it cost both of you the race". Apple Bloom stated Applejack sighed knowing they we're all right. "You guys are right Our behavior was just terrible". "We weren't very good sports". Rainbow Dash replied. Applejack then looked at her little sister. "And Apple Bloom, I feel so ashamed. As your big sister I'm suppose to teach you not the cheat, but instead I cheated, just because I wanted to prove a point. Can you ever forgive me"? Applejack asked. Apple Bloom smiled at Applejack. "Of course". she exclaimed happily. "Sounds to me that an important lesson was learned." A voice said. Everyone turned to see Princess Celestia heading towards them. "Princess Celestia". Both Applejack and Rainbow Dash said in shock, before bowing. "W-What are you doin' here?" Applejack asked. "Fall is one of my favorite seasons, so I came to celebrate the Running of the Leaves." Celestia explained. "I'm sorry you had to see us being such poor sports, Princess". Applejack Apologzied. "That's all right, Applejack. Anypony can get swept up in the excitement of competition". Celestia reassured. "It's important to remember that the friendship is always more important than the competition. Twilight stated. "Exactly, Twilight." Celestia agreed before facing Applejack and Rainbow Dash. "Now, unfortunately, because the two of you were busy tricking each other instead of shaking down leaves, many of the lovely trees of Equestria are still covered". She stated. Applejack looked up at the princess with a smile on her face. "Why, Princess, I bet we can knock those leaves down for you lickety-split." she stated before turning to Rainbow Dash. "Whaddya say, friend? Wanna go for another run"? she asked. Rainbow Dash smiled. "I'd love to stretch my legs". she replied. With that, the two of them started running again. This time together, side by side as friends. Just like they should have been doing from the very beginning. Preview. The day of the Grand Galloping Gala is getting closer, and Rarity deciedes to make dresses for her friends, but when Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy all want their dresses to be a certain way, Rarity finds that meeting their expectations will be more difficult then she thought. Next Episode. Sutied for Success. Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Rainbow Dash Applejack Apple Bloom Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Spike Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Bertholdt Hoover Rarity Granny Smith Big Macintosh Angel Bunny Berry Punch Sweetie Drops Cherry Berry Daisy Derpy Hooves Shoeshine Minuette Lyra Heartstrings Sweetie Belle Scootaloo Lemon Hearts Twinkleshine Amethyst Star Princess Celestia
Episode 21: Sutied for Success: Gala arc Part 14Carosuel Boutique. Ponyville's resident clothing store, also the home of the fashion designer Rarity who at the moment was looking over a drawing of a dress she was working on. The dress happened to be the one she planned on wearing to the Grand Galloping Gala. "Oh, Opalescence. Can't you just picture it? Moi, stepping out in a stunning new gown at the Grand Galloping Gala in Canterlot"! She said to her pet cat, who mearly Meowed in response. "Why, yes! I did make it myself. Thank you so much for asking". Rarity replied, as if thinking Opal actually cared. She didn't by the way, but Rarity of course couldn't understand what her pet cat was saying, after all, talking to animals was Fluttershy's thing. So Rarity simply spoke to Opal like she would listen to her. "Oh, Opal, of course you can help me. Thank you". Rarity stated, as she placed Opal on a table, and stuck a piece of yarn in her mouth. Opal just spat it out, and groaned. "What's that? You want to help me more? Oh, aren't you the sweetest thing"? Rarity asked as she made Opal hold on to more stuff, while she finished seawing the dress, much to the cat's dismay. Rarity was busy working on the dress, when she heard a knock at the door. It opened and in Applejack, and Twilight Sparkle. "Howdy, Rarity!" Applejack called out. When Rarity didn't answer Twilight looked over, and saw that she was busy working on something. "Shh... can't you see Rarity is trying to concentrate"? She said to Applejack, who proceeded to look over. "What do you think she's makin'?" Asked Applejack. "Looks like a dress". Twilight replied. "Well, that makes sense. Since this is a dressmaker's shop and all". Applejack stated. Rarity could hear them talking, and it was breaking her concentration. "Is there something I can help you with"? she asked the two of them. "Oh, so very sorry to trouble you, Rarity, but I need a quick favor. Could you please fix the button for me? It's my dress for the Grand Galloping Gala". Twilight replied showing Rarity a red dress she had planned on wearing. Rarity looked at it, and gasped at it. "Oh, no, no, no! You can't wear this... old thing. You need a glamorous new outfit for the Gala and I'll make it for you. No problem at all. It will be my pleasure!" Rarity stated. "Oh, that's really sweet of you to offer, Rarity, but I can't let you do that. It would be so much work. This dress is fine. Twilight replied. "Twilight Sparkle. I insist on making you a new dress". Rarity repeated. "But"! Twilight said trying to protest, only for Rarity to intterupt her. "Not another word! I won't take no for an answer". Twilight, knowing full well that Rarity wasn't going to back down, just sighed, and agreed to Rarity's offer. "Well, in that case... thank you for your generosity, Rarity. Knowing your handiwork, I'm sure it will be absolutely beautiful". Twilight stated. Rarity then turned to Applejack, and frowned. "Let me guess, Applejack. You don't want a new gown either". Applejack was taking off guard by Rarity's statment. "Gown? Shoot. I was just gonna wear my old work duds". She replied. "Rarity stared at AJ in shock. "You can't possibly be serious, Applejack! You absolutely must wear formal attire". Rarity insited. Applejack thought for a moment. "Hm... nah." she stated. "What if I just spruce up your... duds for you a little bit?" Rarity asked. Applejack thought for a moment. "Um... okay, sure, why not? Since you're up for it and all. Just don't make them too... frou-frou-y." She stated. "Deal". Rarity agreed. All of a sudden they all heard a voice from above. "Look out below!" Rainbow Dash came crashing in through the ceiling. "Sorry. New trick. Didn't quite work." she apologized. "Hmm" Rarity murmmered as she stared at Rainbow Dash before gasping. "Idea! I'll make you an outfit for the Gala too, Rainbow Dash". "Outfit for the what now?" Rainbow Dash asked in confusion as Rarity continued. "I'll make one for you and you and all of you. Oh! And of course Pinkie and Fluttershy too. Oh, and suits for Bertholdt and Reiner. Oh, and when I'm done, we can hold our very own fashion show! Rarity stated. "What a great idea! If you're sure you can handle it." Twilight said. Rarity looked at her, and Smiled. "Oh, it'll be a little bit of work, but it will be a wonderful boost for my business. Plus, fun!". She insisted. "Oh I love fun things". Rainbow Dash stated. "Then it's settled. We'll have a fashion show starring us!" Rarity announced as Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Twilight cheered. "So all you have to do is make a different, stunning, original, amazing outfit for one, two, three, four, five, six, seven—plus yourself—eight ponies And lickety split? Applejack asked. "Oh, Applejack. You make it sound as if it's going to be hard". Rarity replied. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Twilight all left, and Rarity began making the designs for the dresses, singing a little song as she worked. "Thread by thread, stitching it together Twilight's dress, cutting out the pattern snip by snip Making sure the fabric folds nicely It's the perfect color and so hip Always gotta keep in mind my pacing Making sure the clothes' correctly facing I'm stitching Twilight's dress Yard by yard, fussing on the details Jewel neckline, don't you know a stitch in time saves nine? Make her something perfect to inspire Even though she hates formal attire Gotta mind those intimate details Even though she's more concerned with sales It's Applejack's new dress Dressmaking's easy, for Pinkie Pie something pink Fluttershy something breezy Blend color and form, Do you think it looks cheesy? She asked Opal before continuing her song Something brash, perhaps quite fetching Hook and eye, couldn't you just simply die? Making sure it fits forelock and crest Don't forget some magic in the dress Even though it rides high on the flank Rainbow won't look like a tank I'm stitching Rainbow's dress Piece by piece, snip by snip Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip Thread by thread, primmed and pressed Yard by yard, never stressed And that's the art of the dress"! Rarity was putting the finishing touches on the outfits when there was another knock at the door. "Come in". She said. The door opened and in walked Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover. "Hey Rarity, Twilight told us what you were doing, and we decieded to come check on things". Reiner stated. Rarity smiled at the two of them. "Why yes Mr. Braun, I've just put the finshing touches on both your's and Mr. Hoover's suits". Rarity said as she stepped back to reveal the suits to the two of them. "What do you think"? Rarity asked. Reiner and Bertholdt eyed the suits, both of them very impreassed by what Rarity had made. "Rarity, these are amazing". Bertholdt stated in awe. Rarity smiled. Why thank you Mr Hoover, I'm glad to know that you and Mr. Braun appreanceatie the hard work I put in to them, I just hope the others will too". Rarity sighed. "What do you mean"? asked Reiner. "Well, I'm just not sure the girls will like my the dresses I made for them". Rarity stated as she showed Reiner, and Bertholdt the dresses she made. Reiner, and Berthodlt eyed the dresses. "Rarity they're amazing, I'm sure the girls will love them". Reiner stated. Rarity smiled at him. "You're right Mr. Braun, tommorow I'm going to show off these dresses to the girls, and they'll love em. Rarity stated. Reiner, and Bertholdt smiled. "Well we have to get going". Reiner said. "Yeah will see you tommorow". Bertholdt replied. Rarity smiled as she watch the two of them leave, but then she called out to them. "Reiner, Bertholdt"! Reiner and Bertholdt turnred around. "Thank you". Rarity simple said. "Reiner and Bertholdt smiled and left. The next morning Rarity brought the girls over to see the dresses she had designed for them. "That's it. Keep them closed. Don't look. Okay, you can look now!" The girls opened their eyes, and gasped in horror when the saw the dresses as Rarity began describing them. "These are your new outfits. What do you think of your old duds now, Applejack? Pretty swanky, are they not? And Twilight! I made this dress for you and I designed each outfit theme to perfectly reflect each pony's unique personality. Oh, it took me forever to get the colors right on this one, Rainbow Dash, but I did it. Oh, and it turned out beautiful, don't you think? And I know you are going to love yours, Fluttershy. It just sings spring! And Pinkie Pie, look! Pink! Your favorite! Aren't they all amazing"? She asked hopefully. The girls however clearly didn't like the dresses, but they didn't want to hurt Rarity's feelings. "Wow... they're..." Twilight began "Yeah, they're..." Rainbow Dash continued. "They sure are... somethin'." Applejack replied. "Yes! Something". Twilight said quickly, hoping Rarity wouldn't ask any questions. "I love something! Something is my favorite"! Pinkie Pie stated unsurely. "It's....... Nice". Fluttershy simply stated boredly. Rarity looked at all of them in confusion, unsure of why they were all reacting the way the were. "But what's the matter? Don't you like them? "They're very nice.." Twilight tried to reassure Rarity. "And we're plumb grateful 'cause you worked so hard on them." Applejack stated. "Mine's just not as cool as I was imagining." Rainbow Dash admitted causing Applejack, and Twilight to glare at her. "She did ask". Rainbow Dash defeneded. "I guess what we're all saying is that they're just not what we had in mind". Twilight finally admitted, with Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttetrshy nodding in agreement. Rarity sighed. "That's okay. Not a problem. There's plenty more where that came from. They were only a first pass. You're my friends and I want you to be one hundred and ten percent satisfied. Not to worry, I'll redo them". The girls tried to object to Rarity's offer. "Oh, Rarity. You don't have to do that. They're fine". Fluttershy insisted. Rarity shook her head. "I want them to be better than just fine. I want you to think they're absolutely perfect." "Are you sure? I mean, we wouldn't wanna impose". Applejack asked. Rarity nodded, once again refusing to take no for an answer. "Oh, it's no imposition. Really, I insist. The girls then smiled, happy that Rarity was willing to do this for them. "Well, in that case... thank you again, Rarity." Twilight stated, as she and the others left. Once they were gone, Rarity let out a strain of laughter as she realized what she had just done. "What have I gotten myself into?" Currently Publicly Avalablie Information Carosuel Boutique. A clothing store located in Ponyville which serves as both the buissness and home to Rarity. Later that day Reiner, and Bertholdt were back at the boutique as Rarity was beginning with the revisions on the dresses. "So, the girls didn't like the dresses"? Asked Reiner. "I wouldn't say they didn't like them, they just weren't what they were excepting". Rarity stated. Reiner, and Bertholdt looked at her in confusion. "Rarity, are you sure you can handle that"? asked Bertholdt. Rarity gave the two of them a confident look. "Don't worry darling, I know what I'm doing". she reassured them as she continued. Bertholdt, and Reiner decieded to just let Rarity be, and left the boutique. As they walked downstairs, they saw Fluttershy walking in. She smiled at the two of them. "Hi, Reiner, Bertholdt". she greeted happily. "Hello Fluttershy, what are you doing might I ask"? question Reiner. "I'm here cause Rarity said she needed to see me. Do you two know where she is"? Fluttershy asked. "Yeah, she's upstairs in her room working". Bertholdt replied. Fluttershy smiled. "Okay, thanks you two". she said as she walked upstairs, while Reiner, and Bertholdt left. Fluttershy walked up to Rarity's bedroom door and slowly entered inside. "Hello? You wanted to see me, Rarity?" she asked. "Fluttershy! Your new-new gown's ready". Rarity stated as she led Fluttershy into the changing room for her to try it on. Fluttershy put the dress on, and looked at herself in the mirror. "What do you think"? Rarity asked. Fluttershy stared at the dress. It defenintly wasn't what she wanted, but being the way she was she didn't want to upset Rarity. " I... love it." she hesitated, but Rarity was able to see through Fluttershy's act. "Oh, you're just saying that". "No, no. I do. It's... nice." Fluttershy stated. "Nice"? Rarity said in confusion. "Nice". Fluttershy repeated. Rarity did not like the vauge answers Fluttershy was giving her. Now Rarity was more sure that Fluttershy didn't like the dress. "If you don't like it, you should just tell me". Rarity insisted. "Oh, but I do like it". Fluttershy stated. "Like it or love it"? Rarity asked. "Um... both"? Fluttershy replied hoping that Rarity would just accept that answer. Rarity however didn't. "Which is it"? Now Fluttershy was getting a little scared as Rarity kept asking her what she thought. "Please stop asking me this I.." Fluttershy whimpered. "Well, just tell me what you really think". Rarity said. "No, that's okay..." Fluttershy stated. "Tell Me". Rarity insisted. "No... it's fine...". Said Fluttershy "Tell Me". Rarity said again. "I... like it..." Fluttershy insisted. "Tell me, tell me, tell-me-tell-me-tell-me"! Rarity kept pressuaring until Fluttershy finally had enough. "All right! Since you really wanna know... ". Fluttershy took a deep pressure, and began ranting about all the things she thought was wrong with the dress. "The armscye's tight, the middy collar doesn't go with the shawl lapel, the hems are clearly machine-stitched, the pleats are uneven, the fabric looks like toile, you used a backstitch here when it clearly called for a topstitch or maybe a traditional blanket stitch, and the overdesign is reminiscent of prêt-à-porter and not true French haute couture". She then paused, and looked at Rarity. "But, uh... you know... um, whatever you want to do is fine. She stated. Rarity just stared in complte shock at what Fluttershy had said. Fluttershy also stared akwardly at Rarity, and slowly left the room. Later, Twilight was describing the best she could how she wanted her dress to look. "Now, the stars on my belt need to be technically accurate. Orion has three stars on his belt, not four." Rarity just listened as she sang her song again. "Stitch by stitch, stitching it together Deadline looms, don't you know the client's always right? Even if my fabric choice was perfect Gotta get them all done by tonight Pinkie Pie, that color's too obtrusive Wait until you see it in the light I'm sewing them together!" Then she was with Pinkie Pie who was asking about ballons "Don't you think my gown would be more "me" with some lollipops?" She asked "Well I". Rarity tried to say only for Pinkie to intterupt her. "Balloons?" Pinkie Asked. "Well". Rarity tried to say again, but Pinkie intterupted again. "Do it". Pinkie Pie stated as Rarity continued singing. "Hour by hour, one more change I'm sewing them together, take great pains Fluttershy, you're putting me in a bind Rainbow Dash, what is on your mind? Oh my gosh, there's simply not much time Don't forget, Applejack's duds must shine Dressmaking's easy, every customer's call Brings a whole new revision Have to pick up the pace, still hold to my vision" "That constellation is Canis Major, not Minor". Twilight Stated. "French haute couture, please". Fluttershy requested. "Ugh". Rarity groaned. Next she was with Applejack. "What if it rains? Galoshes"! Aj demanded. Then Rarity was with Pinkie Pie again. Who was being extremly difficult with what she wanted. "More balloons! Oh no, that's too many balloons. More candy! Oh, less candy. Oh wait, I know. Streamers!" "Streamers"? Groaned Rarity. "Whose dress is this?" Pinkie asked. "Streamers it is". Rarity sighed. Next it was Rainbow Dash. As Rarity worked, Rainbow Dash just stood back, not saying a word. That confused Rarity, and she turned around to face Rainbow, who looked up at Rarity in confusion. "What"? Rainbow Dash asked. "Aren't you going to tell me to change something too"? Rarity asked. "No, I just want my dress to be cool." Dash replied. "Do you not like the color"? Rarity asked. "The color's fine, just make it look cooler". Rainbow Dash stated. "Do you not like the shape"? asked Rarity "The shape's fine, just make the whole thing... you know, cooler. It needs to be about twenty percent cooler". Rarity groaned again as the others began singing as well [Pinkie Pie] "All we ever want is indecision." [Rainbow Dash] "All we really like is what we know" . [Twilight Sparkle] "Gotta balance style with adherence." [Fluttershy] "Making sure we make a good appearance". [Applejack] "Even if you simply have to fudge it". [Reiner Braun] "Are you sure you can handle this". [Bertholdt Hoover] "We think you should take a break". [Main Cast Sans Rarity, Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover] "Make sure that it stays within our budget". [Rarity] "Got to overcome intimidation Remember, it's all in the presentation! Piece by piece, snip by snip Croup, dock, haunch, shoulders, hip Bolt by bolt, primmed and pressed Yard by yard, always stressed And that's the art of the dress!" Rarity was finally done with the new dresses, unlike the last ones, these dresses were terrible, and Rarity herself knew it. "Oh, Opal. These are the ugliest dresses I've ever made". she moaned to her cat. Later the girls along with Reiner, and Bertholdt were back to see the new dresses Rarity made. "Okay. I did exactly what each of you asked for. Now don't hold back. Let me know what you really think". Rarity stated as she reveled the dresses to them. She pulled back the curtian and showed off the new dresses. Reiner and Bertholdt looked completly suprised as they saw the new looks, but the girls had huge smiles on their faces. "Oh my!" Twilight stated. "It's.... Perfect". said Fluttershy. "It's cool". said Rainbow Dash. "Why, they're the best duds I ever did see." Applejack stated. "It's exactly what I asked for"! the girls all said simultaneously. Rarity sighed as Twilight walked up to her. "Thank you Rarity". she said. Pinkie Pie then came up with a huge smile on her face. "Are you as happy with them as we are? Huh? Huh? Huh"? she asked Rarity. "Well, I'm... happy that all of you are happy. I'm just relieved to finally be done". Rarity stated. Pinkie Pie then turned to Reiner and Bertholdt. "What about you guys, what do you think"? she asked. Reiner, and Bertholdt both looked at the dresses, it was clear they were bad, but the girls sans Rarity all seemed to like them. "Um..... They're interesting". Reiner finally stated. "Yeah." Bertholdt agreed. All of a sudden the door burst opened, and Spike came inside with a look of excitment on his face. "You are never gonna believe this! You've heard of Hoity Toity?" He asked. "The bigwig fashion hotshot in Canterlot?" Twilight asked. Spike nodded. "Uh-huh. He heard about your fashion show. Well, maybe I happened to mention it to him... he's coming here all the way from Canterlot to see your work, Rarity"! Hearing this made the girls smile. They were extremely happy that Rarity could have a chance at her biggest dream. "Whoa, Nelly! You could sell a ton o' dresses to this guy. Your business will be boomin'!" Applejack stated. "Wow". Twilight admired. "That's so cool!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. "I don't believe it!" Pinkie Pie said exictedly. Rarity meanwhile had a look of horror on her face as she realized what would most likely happen if Hoity Toity saw the dresses she mad. She hoped her ears were playing tricks on her. "Hoity Toity? He's coming here? To see THESE dresses"? she asked Spike in a panic. "Yep! Get ready for all of your dreams to come true". Spike Confirmed. Rarity's eyes twitch as she realized that what Spike had said was true. Seeing this, Reiner walked up to Rarity. "You gonna be alright"? he asked her. Rarity looked up at him and nodded. "Yeah, I mean who knows, maybe I'll be suprised, and he'll end up liking the dresses I made". Rarity said trying to reassure herself. Reiner looked at Rarity unsurely but decieded to take her word. "Alright". He stated, as he, Bertholdt, and the other left. Once they were gone, Rarity burried her face in her hooves and groaned in frustration. Later that night, the citzens of Ponyville were gathering around a stage for Rarity's fashion show. They all moved to the side when Hoity Toity arrived. He came up to the front of the stage and clapped his hooves. One of the ponies gave him a cushion to sit on in order to watch the show. Rarity peeked from behind the curtian at the crowd. "Oh". she mumbled, then she gasped when she saw Hoity. "There he is!" Rarity took a deep breath, and tried to compoise herself. "Okay. Relax, Rarity. Your friends like their outfits and so will he. she thought to herself. All of a sudden the lights went out, startling Rarity. "What's wrong with the lights?!" She exclaimed before realizing what was happening. "Oh, yes. That means the show's. starting. Good". Reiner and Bertholdt appered next to Rarity. Them being there made her feel a little better. Just then Spike's voice was heard over a microphone. "Since the beginning of time, the elite of Equestria have longed for pony fashions that truly expressed the essence of their very souls. Patiently waiting decades—no, centuries—for the perfect pony gown. Today, at long last, Equestria, your wait is over! Let's hear it for the breathtaking designs of Ponyville's own Rarity!" Spike announced. Once he was done the girls all came out on the stage in the dresses. The crowd all looked on in shock at the dresses. Some of them began to murmur among themselves, and it didn't take long for the girls to realize that something was wrong. "Why's everypony lookin' at us like that"? Asked Applejack. Twilight then realized what was wrong. "Oh dear". She muttered. Rainbow Dash also seemed to realize that the crowd didn't like the dresses. "You think we overdid it?" She asked. "Nah". Stated Applejack trying to be optimistic, but once she looked at the crowd, and heard their murmmers, she realized that they really did overdo it. "Okay maybe a Little". Applejack finally admitted. Hoity Toity looked on in absoulte disgust, he couldn't beleive he had been forced to sit through this awful fashion show and see these terrible dresses. He was annoyed, he was offeneded, and he was going to make sure everyone new it. "Oh, those amateurish designs look like a piled-on mishmash of everything but a kitchen sink! It's a travesty is what it is. Those outfits are the ugliest things I've ever seen, oh for shame! Who is responsible for subjecting our eyes to these horrors? Not to mention wasting my valuable time". Rarity jumped behind Reiner, and Bertholdt, hoping not to be seen. "Oh! Hide me"! she begged the two stallions. Spike however shown the light on Rarity, and began cheering for her, forcing Rarity to face both the crowd and Hoity Toity. Rarity did a walk of shame as Spike cheered for her. "Come on out and take a bow, Rarity. You worked really hard for this. Yes! All right, woo-hoo! Go, Rarity"! Rarity slowly walked out on stage as Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy tried to keep themselves together, but as Rarity faced the crowd they began mururming again. Rarity tried to keep her composer, but then Hoity Toity spoke up. "That mare should never have tried to be a designer, and she never will be with dresses like that". he stated causing the crowd to laugh. That was too much for Rarity, knowing her dreams were crushed she bursted into tears and ran off the stage, Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Spike, Reiner and Bertholdt all looking on broken hearted. Reiner was about to confront Hoity Toity, but Bertholdt stopped him. "It's not worth it Reiner". Bertholdt stated as the two of them watched Rarity run off in the distance. Several days past, and Rarity hadn't come out of the Carosuel Boutquie since the fashion show. The rest of the Mane Eight all decieded to go to the boutique to check on how she was doing. While on their way they began to discuss what happened at the fashion show. "I mean I just don't get it, why didn't that jerkface Hoity Toity like Rarity's dresses". Asked Rainbow Dash. Applejack sighed. "Cause he was right, they were awful, and it was all our fault. Twilight, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy all nodded in agreement confusing Rainbow Dash. "What do you mean our fault"? she asked causing Twilight to turn and face her. "The first dresses she made were perfect, but we had to be picky and make severeal demends when we should have just accepted the orignal designs". Rainbow Dash looked down, knowing full well that both Twilight and Applejack were right. Reiner then spoke up. "I'm glad you girls are realzing the mistake you made, that show great friendship." he complemented. Pinkie Pie looked up at him sadly, "But, what can we do Reiner"? she asked. Reiner walked over to Pinkie Pie and put his hoof on her shoulder. "Just do what ever you can to make things right". he stated. The group then arrived at Rarity's Boutique and walked up to her room. "Rarity? You okay in there? You haven't come out for days". Pinkie Pie stated as she knocked on the door. "I'm never coming out! I can't show my face in Ponyville ever again! I used to be somepony. I used to be respected. I made dresses. Beautiful, beautiful dresses! But now everypony is laughing at me. I'm nothing but a laughing stock"! Rarity sobbed. Hearing that made the girls feel even more guilty. "You're not a laughing stock, Rarity...". Twilight tried to reassure her. "She kind of is". admitted Rainbow Dash. "Shhh"! Twilight shushed her before talking to Rarity again. "Come on out and talk to us." She pleaded. Leave me alone! I vant to be alone! I want to wallow in... whatever it is that ponies are supposed to wallow in! Do ponies wallow in pity? Oh, listen to me, I don't even know what I'm supposed to wallow in! I'm so pathetic!" Rartiy wailled. Realizing that Rarity wasn't going to come out, the others began to get worried. "What do we do now"? asked Twilight. "Uh... panic?" Suggested Fluttershy. "That's your answer to everything". Replied Rainbow Dash. "Well we can't leave Rarity like this". Applejack stated. "Yeah! If we do she'll end up becoming a Crazy Cat Lady"! Said Pinkie Pie. "She only has one cat" Bertholdt pointed out. "Give her time". Pinkie Pie replied. Twilight then looked through the keyhole of Rarity's work room. Eventually she noticed that Rarity's own dress wasn't finish. She must have been so busy working on our dresses that she didn't have to finish her own". Twilight realized. Then and idea flew into her mind. "I got it! I know what to do". she exclaimed. "What is it"? asked Reiner. "Well finish Rarity's dress for her"! Twilight explained. Everyone smiled at that. "Hey that's a mighty fine idea Twilight, but um how are we going to finish it for her"? asked Applejack. That's when Fluttershy spoke up. "Um, I know a little bit about sewing". Fluttershy stated causing everyone to look at her as she gave a sheepish smile. Later that day, Rarity was in her work room contemplating her next move. "Exile... I guess technically I'd have to move away to live in exile. Where would I go? And what would I pack? Oh, it's going to take me forever to do all of that packing. What are you supposed to pack when you go to exile? Are you supposed to pack warm?" she wondered to herself. All of a sudden she heard her cat meow in dispare. "Huh? Opal?" Rarity looked out her window and saw Opal stuck at the top of a tree. "Opal, how did you get up there? Hang on, you poor dear! Mama's coming"! Rarity called out as she rushed outside. However when she got there she saw Rainbow Dash sitting on the other branch. "Rainbow Dash"?! Rarity asked in both shock and confusing, before realizing how Opal got on the tree. "How dare you strand my poor Opal in a tree"? "Well, how else were we gonna get you out here to show you this?" Rainbow Dash asked as she flew to the side to reveal Rarity's completed dress with Twilight, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy standing next to it. Rarity gawked at it in absoulte shock. "What is it? It's not... you..." She sputtered. "We all finished your dress for you". Pinkie Pie stated. "Thanks to Fluttershy's freaky knowledge of sewing." Applejack replied, making the yellow pegagus blush. "Do you like it"? asked Fluttershy. Rarity stared at them for a bit. "Like it? Like it"?! she questioned as she studied the dress carefully. "Oh no, she doesn't like it". Fluttershy said sadly. Rarity nodded her head. "You're right, I don't like it". she admitted. The girls looked down sadly "Awwww". the moanded. But then Rarity turned around with a huge grin on her face. "I love it"! Rarity exclaimed. "Yay!" the girls all cheered as Rarity smiled at them. "You ponies did an amazing job. It's exactly the way I imagined it." She said. "We just followed your amazing design". Fluttershy stated. "Just like we should have when you made our dresses". Twilight admited steping forward. "Those first dresses you designed were perfect". Twilight concluded. "We're so super sorry". Pinkie Pie apologized. "You worked really hard to make our dresses exactly the way we wanted them. We all saw how well that turned out". Rainbow Dash stated. Rarity smiled at them. "Oh, I forgive you." she told them, making the girls smile as well. "Well, that's mighty big of you." Applejack replied. Rarity's smile then faded as she still remembered the fashion show failure. "Stiil though, my whole life's career is ruined"! she again cried in despair. "Oh, right. That". Applejack remembered. Twilight however smiled and looked to her left. "Maybe not". she stated. Rarity's gaze followed Twilight's, and to her shock she saw Hoity Toity standing there. "Alright I haven't got all day". he said. Rarity starred at Hoity Toty in complete shock, she turned to the girls. "Wha wha, bbb...but how"? she asked. "You can thank Reiner and Bertholdt for that". Twilight stated as the two stalions walked up to Hoity Toity. A big smile formed on Rarity's face, and she eagerly ushered Hoitiy Toity inside her Boutique for another fashion show. Once inside, Hoity Toity sat down, and clapped his hooves. "Take two". he announced. The lights went off, and music started playing. Hoity Toity looked on in confusion, so far this was much different. Then Twilight came on the stage wearing the dress Rarity had orignally designed for her. Now Hoity Toity was even more confused. "Hello... oh, this can't be the same designer". he said. Then Applejack came on. "Simply magnificent! And I suddenly have a fierce craving for some Dutch apple pie, candied apples on a stick, apple turnovers, apple cobbler..." Hoity was intteruped by Pinkie Pie showing up. "Brilliant"! he exclaimed. Next was Rainbow Dash. "Oh, spectacular"! And finally Fluttershy. This time Hoity Toity was alot more impressed then he was before. "Now this is a fashion show! All of these dresses are absolutely amazing. Who is responsible? Step forward, show yourself!" Rarity stepped forward, this time with more confidence and pride then she did before, and wearing on dress. Hoity Toity clapped and cheered, while Reiner, and Bertholdt looked on from the side, both smiling. "Brava! Brava! Magnifico! Encore!" Hoity Toity cheered. Rarity smiled, happy tears streaming down her face. "Oh, thank you. Thank you! Oh, thank you so much"! she exclaimed. Later on, the girls were all admiring themselves in their new dresses as Twilight was reciting her letter to Princess Celestia Dear Princess Celestia, This week, my very talented friend Rarity learned that if you try to please everypony, you often times end up pleasing nopony, especially yourself. And I learned this: when somepony offers to do you a favor, like making you a beautiful dress, you shouldn't be overly critical of something generously given to you. In other words, you shouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth. [ She giggled. Reiner, and Bertholdt were watching and the end of the room, as the girls smiled, they smiled too. Rarity then walked up to them. "I never thanked you". she said. "For what"? asked Reiner. For believing in me, and trying to tell me that I should have gone with my orignal designs. "Hey, you wanted to be generous for your friends, even if the dresses they wanted weren't all that great, the fact is that you care about them so much that you were willing to do what ever it took to make them happy". Reiner stated. Rarity smiled. "Thank you Reiner, hearing that..... Well it makes me feel so good". She stated as she hugged both Reiner and Bertholdt. Hoity Toity then walked up to Rarity with a huge smile on his face. "Rarity, my congratulations to you on a most impressive fashion debut. Would you do me the great honor of allowing me to feature your couture in my Best of the Best Boutique in Canterlot"? he asked. Rarity gasped in delight quickly nodding yes. Hoity Toity was pleased, but then said something that made Rarity's eye twitch. Now, I'll need you to make a dozen of each dress for me by next Tuesday. Rarity let out a strained laugh Preview Twilight tries to prove that Pinkie Pie's abilty to predict the future is nothing but a bunch of coincidences, but the more she tries, the more it seems like the predictions might be true. Next Episode. Feeling Pinkie Keen. Author's Note Characters in order of apperance Rarity Opalescence Applejack Twilight Sparkle Rainbow Dash Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Fluttershy Pinkie Pie Spike Daisy Derpy Hooves Sweetie Drops Amethyst Star Shoeshine Golden Harvest Minnuette Hoity Toity Lyra Heartstrings DJ Pon-3 Dr. Hooves
Episode 22: Feeling Pinke Keen: Gala arc Part 15In the center of Ponyville, Twilight and Spike were again testing more of Twilight's abilites in magic. Spike was standing in front of Twilight with a rock on his head, and holding a stick. Twilight lit up her horn, and prepared to fire a magic blast at Spike. "Tuh! Nuh! Uh! Nyuh"! She grunted. Finally the spell started to work. Spike was soon wearing a tux and bowtie. Then Twilight tunred to stick into a cane. Twilight was about to finish the spell, but Spike got distracted by something, and turned away. "Eyes over here Spike". Twilight told him. Spike turned to face Twilight. "Uh, sorry." He apologized. "For this to work, it's crucial we keep our concentration totally on the-". Twilight stated as she turned to rock on Spike's head into a top hat, but Spike was once again distracted by Pinkie Pie. "Oooh". That distraction caused the spell to backfire, and the hat to turn back into a rock, striking Spike on the head. "Spike! This magic needs our full attention to make it happen. There's no other way"! Twilight scolded "I can't help it, look". Spike argued pointing over to Pinkie Pie who was wearing some type of strange umbrella hat, and hidng under various objects. "Ugh, never mind her. She's just being Pinkie Pie". Twilight stated. "Super-extra Pinkie Pie today." Spike repiled. The two of them decieded to go see what Pinkie Pie was up too, as she still was moving around weirdly and looking at her tail, which started twitching. "Hmm... Twitchy twitcha twitcha twitch." Pinkie muttered as Twilight, and Spike walked up to her. "Pinkie Pie? What in the wide, wide world of Equestria are you up to?" Asked Twilight. Pinkie Pie turned to face the two of them. "Oh! It's my tail! It's my tail! It's a-twitch a-twitchin'! And you know what that means!" Pinkie Pie stated. "Actually, Pinkie, I haven't the slightest idea". Twilight replied. "The twitchin' means my Pinkie Sense is telling me that stuff's gonna start falling! You two better duck for cover." Hearing that made Twilight smile, she couldn't believe how silly Pinkie Pie was being. "Oh, Pinkie, it's not gonna rain. Why, there's barely even a cloud in the-ugh!". Twilight was intterupted when a frog landed on her face, and croaked. "He said, "nice catch" in frog". Pinkie Pie stated. Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie Pie all looked up and saw Fluttershy above them with a small cart of frogs on her back. "Oh, I'm so, so sorry. You okay, Twilight Sparkle? I just couldn't stand to see the pond getting so over-populated, what with the frogs all hopping into each other and all, so I decided to fly as many as I can on over to Froggy Bottom Bogg." she explained. "Of course you did". Twilight muttered under her breath as Fluttershy flew away. "Bye Bye". the yellow pegagus said. Once she was gone Pinkie Pie turned to Twilight who still had the frog on her. " Um... Twilight? You gotta little somethin' on your face there." she pointed out. "Oh, really? Did your Pinkie Sense tell you that, too?" Twilight asked sarcasticly. "Nah! I could just see it. La-la-la-la-la..." Pinkie Pie stated as she trotted away. Twilight rolled her eyes. "C'mon, Spike, let's continue our practice session where there's a little less commotion." She said as she walked away, with Spike catching up and hoping on her back. "Wow! That was amazing! Pinkie Pie predicted something would fall, and it did!" Spike said impressed. Twilight however was unconvinced. "Oh, come on. She said that something would fall, and a frog just happened to fall right around the same time. A coincidence, nothing else to it." She said with full confidince, when all of a sudden Pinkie Pie rushed back over to them, her tail twitching once again. "My tail! My tail! Twitch-a-twitch! Twitch-a-twitch! Somethin' else is gonna fall!" Twilight rolled her eyes again. "Oh, Pinkie, please. Nothing else is gonna fa-aaah"! Twilight said before falling in a ditch. "Oh no Twilight fell! Is it... safe to go help her"? Spike asked. Pinkie Pie nodded. "It's okay, my tail stopped twitching. La-la-la-la-la, la-la-la...". She stated, and once again she happily trotted again Spike went down into the ditch as Twilight got up. "That was amazing". Spike said. "Oh please". Twilight muttered again. They then heard a voice. "Uh, Twilight? Why are you hanging out in a ditch?". Twilight and Spike looked up to see Applejack and Apple Bloom standing above them "Hello Twilight and Spike". Apple Bloom waved. Spike Blushed and waved back. "Yes so, why again are you in a ditch"? Applejack repeated. "Because, Pinkie Pie predicted it!" Spike stated confusing the two sisters. "Honestly, Spike, she did not. Two coincidences in a row like this may be unlikely, but it's still easier to believe than twitchy tails that predict the future". Twilight Stated. Hearing the phrase twitchy tail made both Applejack, and Apple Bloom shudder. "witchy tail? Pinkie Sense? Whoa! Nyu-uh!" Applejack grabbed Apple Bloom and the two of them ducked under a cart. "Don't worry, it's safe. Prediction already came true." Spike reassured them. Now Twilight was even more confused. "Wait, don't tell me you two believe in this stuff as well". Applejack and Apple Bloom both made their way out from under the cart. "I know it doesn't make much sense, but those of us who have been in Ponyville a while have learned over time that, if Pinkie's a-twichin', you better listen." Applejack stated with Apple Bloom nodding in response. "That's right, Pinkie plus twitchy tail equals duck in cover"! Apple Bloom pointed out. Twilight just rolled her eyes. Then Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover came up to them. "Hey, what's going on"? Asked Reiner. Seeing them made Twilight smile as she new that they hadn't been in Ponyville that long either. They would have to believe that Pinkie Sense was nonsense. "Reiner, Bertholdt, do you believe in Pinkie Sense"? asked Twilight. "Pinkie what now"? asked Reiner "Pinkie Sense! Pinkie Pie's abilty to predict the future"! Spike stated. "Uh...... yeah that". Twilight replied. "You can't believe in that can you"? She asked Reiner thought for a moment before replying. "Actually, I can". he stated shocking Twilight. "What, but you've never seen it before". She exclaimed. Reiner nodded. "I may not have seen it before, but I can still believe it". he stated. "How can you believe in something you haven't seen"? asked Twilight. "Because Bertholdt here has something similar". Reiner stated. "He does"? asked Spike. "I do"? asked Bertholdt". Reiner nodded, he was about to explain when Pinkie Pie rushed forward having overheard them "You have your own Berthodlt sense"?! She asked the pegagus stailion. Reiner nodded. "You can predict the future based on how Bertholdt sleeps". Reiner stated as he went on to explain. "This morning his body was halfway outside the window, and that means good weather". "Out the window"?! Spike exlcaimed in shock. "And today's weather is just find and dandy". Applejack pointed out. Bertholdt meanwhile was remebering that morning for a different reason. "No wonder I couldn't stop sneezing when I woke up". Bertholdt stated. "Yesterday, his left leg was raised and behind his head. Would have been a good day to do buisness". "Behind his head"?! Twilight exclaimed. "And yesterday Rarity had made a lot of sales". Pinkie Pie pointed out. "So that's why the back of my head hurt so bad". Bertholdt stated. "Two days ago, he was kneeling on the floor with his head thrown forward. That means the arrival of someone you were expecting." "Kneeling"?! Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Weird, cause two days ago we we're expecting family to visit the farm, and they did". Appleack said. "I see, that's why my legs were so numb". Bertholdt realized. "The day before that, he was up against the wall in a handstand. That portends women troubles". Reiner explained. "A handstand"! exclaimed Apple Bloom. Bertholdt pondered this, "I see, that would explain". Bertholdt began, but then stopped himself and looked at Reiner. "Hey, hold on a minute Reiner, this is starting to get kind of embarrassing". Bertholdt stated. Twilight rolled her eyes again, "Oh please, none of those things happened because you slepted in strange positions". Twilight stated. "Maybe". Reiner admited. "But you can't deny the fact that it is strange that strange things happen thanks to Pinkie Pie's predictions". Pinkie Pie nodded in agreement, when all of a sudden her ears started flopping. "My ears are flopping! My ears are flopping!" She exclaimed. "Nyuh! What does that mean?!" Spike asked in fear. Pinkie Pie turned to Twilight. "I'll start a bath for you". Pinkie Pie said confusing Twilight. "Huh"? she asked before chuckling. " bath? This thing keeps on getting more ridiculous by the minute!" Twilight stated, but she was again proven wrong when a stalion with a cart ran through a mud puddle, splashing Twilight with mud. She sighed, and followed Pinkie Pie back to sugarcube corner. At sugarcube corner Twilight was in the bath while Pinkie Pie was doing her best to explain the Pinkie Sense to her. "Sooo, basically, it works like this: I get different, little, niggly feelings and they mean different things. Like when my back is itchy, it means it's my lucky day. And, when my knee gets pinchy, that means something scary's about to happen". Pinkie Pie stated. "Is your knee pinchy now"? asked Twilight. "No, but my shoulder's achy. That means there's an alligator in the tub." Pinkie Pie stated as she dove her head into the tub and pulled out a small toothless aligator. Seeing it made Twilight scream. "How come your knee didn't get pinchy?! That isn't just scary, it's downright dangerous!" Pinkie Pie laughed. "No, it's not, silly! This is my pet alligator, Gummy. He's got no teeth. See? Haha!" Pinkie Pie giggled as Gummy tried biting her mane. "Okay, okay... I get it." Twilight said. Twilight and Pinkie Pie left sugarcube corner with Twilight still not believing in the Pinkie Sense. "Well, I still don't believe all this... "special power" stuff. It's just a bunch of mumbo-jumbo." Twilight stated confidendly causing Pinkie Pie to gasp in shock. "What's not to believe? You do magic, what's the difference?" Pinkie Pie asked as she trotted forward. Hearing that made Twilight seeth with rage. "Huge!" Twilight exclaimed. as she rushed foward to block Pinkie Pie's path. She then stood atop a crate, and cleared her throat before explaning. "For one thing, magic is something you study and practice. It only happens when you decide to do it, and it's meant to make something specific that you choose to happen, happen. With you, uh, it makes no sense at all!" Twilight stated. Pinkie Pie felt insulted by Twilight's statment, and argued back. "That's so not true, Twilight! Sometimes it's a bunch of random things happening to my body at random times that supposedly predict the future. I call 'em "combos". "Combos"? Twilight repeated in confusion. Pinkie Pie nodded. "Sure! You know, like, ear flop, then knee twitch, then eye flutter. That means the sky is about to be graced with a beautiful rainbow". She stated. "Yeah, sure". Twilight said sarcasticly. Suddendly Pinkie Pie started to flare up again. "Uh-oh, I feel a combo coming on"! She stated. The combo was Ear flop, eye flutter, knee twitch". Twilight just rolled her eyes, and was about to open the door to her house, when all of a sudden it flew open, smashing her in the face. Twilight looked up and frowned at Pinkie Pie. "Ughhh... You said that combo meant "beautiful rainbow"." She pointed out, but Pinkie Pie simply shook her head. "Oh no-no-no-no-no. You're thinking of an ear flop, then knee twitch, then eye flutter. This was an ear flop, then eye flutter, then knee twitch. That usually means "look out for opening doors". She stated before looking at Twilight again. "You okay"? she asked innocently. Twilight just groaned in frustration. "I don't believe this". She grummbled. "You don't believe because you don't understand". Was Pinkie's response. That gave Twilight an Idea. Soon both Twilight and Pinkie Pie were in the basement of the Golden Oak Library with Pinkie Pie wearing a strange kind of helment on her head. Twilight was going to find a way to understand Pinkie sense one way or another. "Okay. Now when you get another twitch, we'll have all kinds of scientific information." She stated. Pinkie Pie simply nodded. "Okie-dokie-lokie"! Twilight turned on the machine and turned to Pinkie. "Any twitches"s she asked. Pinkie Pie shook her head. "Nopey-dopey!" After a few more minutes Twilight turned and asked again. "Now? Anything?" For a second Pinkie Pie thought she felt something. "Wait! Hold on!" But it turned to be nothing. "Uh, no". Pinkie Pie replied. This only added on to Twilight's frustration. "Are you kidding me?! After a whole day of nonstop twitching, now that I've got you all hooked up, you're not getting a single one?" "I don't control it, they just come and go." Pinkie Pie stated. "That makes no sense". Twilight retorted. "Sometimes you just have to believe in things, even when you can't figure 'em out". Pinkie Pie replied. "I will not believe in anything I cannot explain." Twilight stated. All of a sudden Pinkie Pie felt something. "Wait, hold on, I'm feeling something..." This made Twilight excited. "Oh my gosh, what? What is it?!" She asked. Then Pinkie Pie's stomach growled. "It's my tummy! That usually means I'm hungry! Let's eat!" She replied. Finally Twilight had enough and ripped the helmet off of Pinkie Pie. "Urgh... You know what? Just forget it! I don't need to know if this is real or not. I don't need to understand it! I don't even care!" Twilight yelled. Pinkie Pie just smiled and trotted off. "Okie-dokie-lokie". But then she felt another twitch coming on "Uh oh. Hu-bu-bu-bu-buh!" Again the door to the basement flew open, smashing into Twilight. "Pinkie? Have you seen Twilight?" Spike asked. "Uh-huh". Pinkie Pie Replied as she left. Spike looked behind the door, and saw Twilight. "Twilight? What are ya doing back there?" He asked. "Rrrrgh... Did you two plan this?" Twilight asked confusing Spike. "Plan what"? Spike asked as Twilight fell to the ground. "Urgh! This is ridiculous. This can't be happening. This makes no sense. I have to figure this out. She stated. Meanwhile at Froggy Bottom Bog, Fluttershy was finishing releasing the frogs, completely unaware that something horrifying was lurking nearby. Currently Publicly Avaliable Imformation Froggy Bottom Bog. A swampy area located deep within the Everfree Forest. As the name suggest, the swamp is home to plenty of frogs, but also houses other, far more dangerous creatures. Later the next morning Pinkie Pie was happily rolling around and playing in the park, meanwhile Twilight was watching her from inside a bush, waiting for something to happen. "Um, Twilight". She heard a voice say startling her. Twilight turned to See Spike, Bertholdt, and Reiner standing behind her. Quickly she pulled them in the bush. "Honestly you three, don't you know better then to sneak up on somepony". "Sorry". Spike apologized sheepishly before he, Reiner, and Bertholdt turned to see what Twilight was looking at. "Why are you spying on Pinkie Pie"? Asked Bertholdt". "I'm not spying Mr. Hoover, I'm simply observing." Twilight stated. "Okay, well what exactaly are you observing"? Asked Reiner. "I'm doing scientific research. I'm observing Pinkie Pie, scientific name: Pinkius Pieicus, in its natural habitat." Twilight replied. "You know she's not an animal right?" Asked Spike. Twilight just ignored him. "There's something fishy going on with the whole twitchy prediction thing, and I'm getting to the bottom of it. So, shh. Come on, Pinkius Pieicus is on the move." She stated as she Saw Pinkie Pie move away. Eventually Pinkie stopped in front of Ponyville Junior High, rolling around in the crash, as Twilight, Spike, Bertholdt, and Reiner watched from afar. All of a sudden Pinkie got up and scratched her nose. Twilight took note of this. "Hm... Itchy nose..." Pinkie then gasped and dove under a piece of equitment. "Aha! That makes no sense. See? She's hiding like something's about to fall from the sky, but a twitchy tail means something's gonna fall from the sky, not an itchy nose. Twilight stated as she went back to studying. Reiner, Bertholdt, and Spike however were wondering what Pinkie was hiding from. They looked up, and gasped as a swarm of bees came flying towards them. Spike, and Bertholdt ran for their lives as Reiner grabbed Twilight, and began running as well with her on his back. "Woah! Reiner, what are you doing"?! Asked Twilight. "Keeping you safe". Reiner replied. "What are you talking about"?! Asked Twilight. She then heard the buzzing, and saw the Bees chasing them. Reiner ran as fast as he could, and dove into a pond with Twilight. They waited for a few seconds before coming up. Seeing the cost was clear they came out of the water. "You alright"? asked Reiner. Twilight nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine". she replied. Next Pinkie Pie traveled to Sweet Apple Acres with the others following her. They dove behind some hay bales, and Twilight pulled out her binoculars. She watched as Pinkie Pie sniffed a flower. "What's she doing"? asked Spike. "Smelling a flower". Twilight replied. "Holy guacamole! I wonder what that means?" Spike asked. "Probably that the flower smells good". Bertholdt stated. Twilight nodded, and went back to observing Pinkie, when all of a sudden Pinkie started to twitch. "Wait. I'm getting something. Ear flop, eye flutter, knee twitch." Twilight noted. Hearing that, Spike immeditly got up. "Hold on... You told me that's the combo that says "watch out for opening doors"!" Bertholdt, and Reiner also moved out of the way, but Twilight just chuckled. "Oh-ho. You really, really believe this stuff, don't you? Here, let me show you there's nothing to be afraid of." Twilight said as she leaned against the door to the farm, and nothing happened. "You see". she asked as she began trotting forward. "I promise you there's nothing to fear from that—" Twilight was stopped mid sentence when a secret trap door opened up underneath her, causing her to fall down serveal flights of stars. "Wo-o-ah! Ow! Ugh! Ow! Ow! She landed in some kind of cellar where Applejack, and Apple Bloom were. Seeing Twilight made Applejack smile. "Twilight! You came to visit my new apple cellar, how nice." Applejack greeted happily, but realized quickly something was wrong when Twilight didn't answer. "Twi? You okay? Uh, Twi?" She asked. "Is she okay Applejack"? Asked Apple Bloom. Twilight had ended up injuring her two front hooves. Fourtently Applejack, had a makeshift wheelchair for her to sit in, and Apple Bloom provided her some bandges. Unfourtnently, now Twilight had a hard time lifing her front hooves, and needed to relay on help in order to continue her research. She, Reiner, Spike, and Bertholdt had followed Pinkie Pie back to the park. "Here, let me help you." Spike said as he lifted Twilight's hooves in order for her to look. Twilight watched, waiting for Pinkie Pie to do something. "Okay, take this down". Twilight said. Pinkie's tail twithced. "Twitchy Tail". Twilight observed. Spike wrote it down in the noted. "Twitchy Tail". Then the reliezation hit him. "Twitchy tail!" Spike shouted in a panic as Twilight tried to shush him. "Hush, Spike! We can't let Pinkie know we're here, remember?" Twilight said, but Spike was in too much of a panic to listen. "Something's gonna fall, something's gonna fall! Run for your lives. Ah-ha-ha!" Spike screamed as he ran out of the way. Bertholdt also took a few paces back. Twilight just rolled her eyes. "Ugh, You two honestly, you're overreact—" She was intterupted when Reiner pulled her wheelchair out of the way. "Woah! Now what are you doing Reiner"?! She asked. Twilight then looked back to where she origninally was. A flower pot, an anvill, a hay cart, and a piano all landed right where Twilight had been sitting. If Reiner hadn't moved her, she would have been hit by those things. Later Pinkie Pie was in another part of the park, when Applejack and Apple Bloom walked towards her. Pinkie Pie smiled and greeted them. "Hey Applejack, Apple Bloom. Whatcha doin'?" She asked. "Takin' more apples to our new apple cellar". Applejack Replied."How 'bout you, Pinkie? Whatchu doin'?" Applejack then asked. "Oh, letting Twilight secretly follow me all day without me knowing." Pinkie Pie responeded. Hearing that, Twilight, Spike, Bertholdt, and Reiner all came out from their hiding spot. "You mean you knew all along?! Why didn't you tell me?" Twilight asked angrily. Pinkie Pie just giggled. "Silly, that would've spoiled the secret!" She replied. "Urgh". Twilight grumbled. "Tail..... Still twitching"? Spike asked nervously. "Yeah, you okay Pinkie"? Asked Reiner. Pinkie Pie nodded. "All done, clear skies from here on in, as far as I can tell—" Pinkie Pie replied, but then she was intterupted by her whole body shuddering. "Hu-bu-bu-bu-bu-bu!" "What's wrong"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Yeah, what does that mean"? asked Spike. "Dunno, never gotten any like it before, but whatever that shudder's about, it's a doozy. Something you'd never expect to happen is gonna happen"! Pinkie Shuddered again. "Hu-bu-bu-bu-bu hu-bu-bu-bu! And it's gonna happen... at Froggy Bottom"! She manged to say. Applejack gasped. "That's where Fluttershy's headed"! "Oh no! Is it about her"?! Spike asked fearfully. "I'm not sure". Pinkie Pie replied. "We have to find—" Apple Bloom began, only to stop when she saw Bertholdt running into the forest. "Bertholdt wait"! She called as she ran after him. Applejack soon followed after them. "They got the right idea. We'd better go make sure Fluttershy's alright". Twilight just stood there and rolled her eyes. "Calm down, everypony. All we know right now is that Pinkie Pie just got a case of the shivers. That's all." Twilight concluded. Bertholdt stopped in his tracks, and turned to face Twilight. (Vogel Im Kafig Plays) "Maybe you're right Twilight, but I'm not taking any chances". He told her. "Bertholdt, Fluttershy's fine". Twilight said, tottaly sure of herself. "Better to be safe then sorry". Bertholdt concluded as he took off again. With the others following him. Twilight sighed and began to follow as well, scooping Spike onto her back. "Guh— Hey! I thought you didn't believe in this stuff?" He asked in confusion. "I don't. I just want to be there to see the look on Pinkie's face when we find out nothing's wrong." Twilight replied. "Okie-dokie!" Pinkie Pie replied. In the Everfree Forest, the group made their way to Froggy Bottom Bog, with Bertholdt up ahead leading the way. "Bertholdt slow down"! Reiner called out as a ran up to catch his friend. Pinkie Pie then got another shudder. "Hu-bu-bu-bu-bu-bu"! "Cold? Need a jacket or something?" Twilight asked mockingly. Bertholdt shot her a glare. "This is no time to be making jokes"! He said with venom in his voice. Twilight just rolled her eyes, as Reiner attempted to calm Bertholdt down. Meanwhile Spike was talking with Applejack, and Apple Bloom. "So... Whadda'ya think happened to Fluttershy?" Spike asked. "Nothin I hope". Applejack replied. "I know, but, whadda'ya think happened"? Spike asked. "Apple Bloom, and I are tryin not to think about it". Applejack replied. Spike nodded. "Me too. But I'm thinkin' about it anyway. Like, what if she exploded?" Spike stated. "Just exploded? For no reason"? Asked Applejack. "Yeah, like BOOM"! Spike replied. "That honestly doesn't make sense, why would Fluttershy explode for no reason"? Asked Apple Bloom. "I don't know". Spike responded. "Whoa". said Pinkie. "I know". Replied Spike. A thought then flew into Pinkie Pie's head. "What if... What if she exploded, and then... and then exploded again!?" She asked. That worried Spike even more. "Can you do that? Is it possible to explode twice"? he asked. "Of course not". Reiner replied from up ahead. That didn't really reassure Spike though. "But what if she exploded, and exploded again, and then— ugh!" he was stopped when Twilight stood on his tail. "Will you two stop? She's fine, I'm sure of it." Twilight stated. "I hope you're right. For Fluttershy's sake". Applejack responded. Then she spotted Froggy Bottom Bog. "Look! there's the bog". she said. The group went towards the bog, and began to search for their friend. "Fluttershy"! Called Bertholdt. "Fluttershy"! Called Applejack. "Fluttershy"! Called Pinkie Pie. Then Pinkie Pie saw her. "Fluttershy"! Spike exclaimed giving her a big hug. "You're okay!" He stated happily. "Of course". Fluttershy stated in confusion as Bertholdt breath a sigh of relief. "That's a relief". Stated Applejack. "I'm glad everything's okay". Said Pinkie Pie. "So am I, I was really worried something had happened". Apple Bloom replied. Twilight meanwhile just stood back with a huge grin on her face. "Sorry, I know it's not nice to gloat but... Aha! I told you there was nothing to worry about, and I was right." She stated. "Twilight that's not the point, the point is that Fluttershy is okay". Reiner stated. "Yes and that's good, but still I was right". Twilight stated as she continued. "Pinkie Pie said whatever she was shuddering about was a" She coughed do to some smell but went on. "Doozy, and". she coughed again unaware of the large creature rising up behind her. "and the only" She coughed again. " doozy I see here is how right I am". The others noticed the creature. "Um Twilight". Applejack whispered trying to warn her friend, but Twilight wasn't listening. "Pinkie's made a lot of predictions today but". She coughed again. "Ugh, what the hell is that smell"? She asked, but chose to ignore it, and continue. " But what we've shown here is that there's no point in believing". She coughed once more. "In anything you can't see for yourself.". "W-Well t-then, s-see what's b-b-behind you, Twilight!" Spike stuttered. Twilight turned around, and saw a large creature with four heads staring back at her. "I see it, but I don't believe it". she stated as the monster let out a bellowing roar. "Is that a Hydra"? Asked Pinkie Pie. "Who cares?! Run"! Yelled Applejack, as she and the others began to get away from the monster. Pinkie however was too much in shock and could only back away in fear. "Pinkie! Come on!" Cried Twilight. She ran over and grabbed Pinkie's tail before the Hydra could grab her. "Oh I'm so sorry". Fluttershy apologized to one of the frogs who was hopping away from the Hydra. The poines ran as fast as they could with each Hydra head trying to grab one. Twilight then spotted a hill up ahead. Thinking fast, she ordered them to head towards it. "Everypony up that hill"! she stated, but then she heard Spike's voice calling out. "He-e-elp!" He had gotten himself stuck in a deep part of the swamp, and the Hydra was closing in. "Coming, Spike! Hang on!" Twilight called. She manged to get to him before the Hydra could, and the two of them joined the others on the hill. "I think were gonna make it". Twilight said hopefully. "But Pinkie's still stuttering ". Spike replied. All of a sudden Pinkie Pie stopped "Oh, lookie there, it stopped". But then she started again. "O-h-h-h, t-h-e-r-e i-t i-s a-g-a-i-n!" She exclaimed as Spike began pushing her up the hill. Twilight, Spike, and Pinkie Pie walked up the hill, and saw that Fluttershy, Bertholdt, Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Applejack had all stopped at the edge of a cliff with the only way across being giant stone pillars. Twilight looked back and saw the Hydra slowly making it's way up the hill. "It'll be up here in no time. Quick, one at a time, cross!" Twilight commanded. Spike was about to do that, but stopped and backed off towards Twilight. "Nyu-uh! Uh, do you know any spells for turning a hydra into a mouse?" He asked Twilight. "No". Twilight replied. "How about a squirrel"? He asked. "No". Twilight replied again. "How about". Spike was about to ask again only for Twilight to stop him "No small rodents of anykind". Twilight stated firmly. "That's too bad". Spike replied Realizing they had no other choice, Fluttershy remembered back to Pinkie's song during the day they went to ask that Dragon to move. "A hop, skip, and a... jump!" Fluttershy stated as she jumped across. Apple Bloom quickly followed after her. "Banzai"! She exclaimed. Both Fluttershy, and Apple Bloom safely made it to the other side. They were then joined by Reiner, and Bertholdt. Twilight grabbed Spike by the tail and through him on one of the pilars, and he too made his way across. Pinkie Pie almost stutterd off the cliff, but Applejack caught her. Twilight looked back and saw that the Hydra was getting closer. "It's almost here! I'll distract it, you two got". she told Applejack and Pinkie. Applejack lept across with Pinkie, as Twilight began to think of something to do. "Oh what would somepony brave like Rainbow Dash do". she asked. She figured that out easily, and charaged the Hydra letting out a war cry. The Hydra saw this and lunged it's heads towards Twilight, but she ran underneath it, causing the Hydra to fall over. "T-T-T-Twilight!" Pinkie stuttered. Twilight ran past the Hydra as it got up and continued to chase her. One the heads lunged at Twilight and tried to get her, but it hit itself on one of the pillars, resulting in all but too crumbling and collapsing. Spike, Pinkie Pie, Apple Bloom, Reiner, Fluttershy, Applejack, Bertholdt, and Twilight all gasped while the head that hit itself roared out in agony. "T-T-T-Twilight! You have to jump"! Pinkie stutters. "I'll never make it"! Twilight stated. "You'll be fine". Pinkie assured. "I will not". Twilight argued. She then looked back had the Hydra which roared angrily at her and rushed her way, "It's your only ho-o-ope! You have to take a leap of faith!" Pinkie Pie said. Twilight gulped, moved back, and ran as fast as she could. Once she was near the edge, she took a massive leap just before the Hydra could get her. Unfourtently though, she missed the pillar, and was about to fall into the muck. "Y-ugh! No! Oh no! Noooo!" But fourtently she happend to land on a very big bubble, which bounced her to the other side. "WA-A-A-AH! Ugh! Blegh!" She yelped. Everyone cheered that Twilight was safe, as Pinkie Pie went up to hug her. "I knew you could do it, Twilight!" She exclaimed happily. "That was way too close"! Apple Bloom stated. "I'll Say". Reiner replied. "Are you alright"? asked Bertholdt. Twilight nodded "Yeah, I'm fine". she stated, she then looked at Pinkie. " I don't know how it happened; coincidence, dumb luck, or what, but you said there'd be a doozy here at Froggy Bottom Bogg, and I'd say we just had ourselves one heck of a doozy. I mean that hydra—" Twilight began to say, only for Pinkie Pie to shudder again. "Pinkie"? Twilight asked in confusion. "That wasn't it". Pinkie suddendly said. "What wasn't it"? asked Spike. "What are you talkin about Pinkie"? Asked Applejack. "The Hydra wasn't the doozy". Pinkie Pie replied as the Hydra slumped away. "I'm still getting the shudders. Oo-o-oh, oo-o-oh! You see? There it is again. Whatever the doozy was at Froggy Bottom Bogg, my Pinkie Sense says it still hasn't happened." Pinkie stated. "Twilight began to spaz in confusion before finally flying into a full blown rage. "Huh? But I— WHAT?! The hydra wasn't the doozy?! How could it not be the doozy?! What could be doozier than that?!" She demanded. "Dunno, but it just wasn't it." Pinkie replied. Twilight's anger builded up more, she looked like she was about to explode. "Ms. Twilight Please Calm Down." Apple Bloom pleaded. Finally Twilight just sighed. "I give up". she stated confusing the others. "Give what up"? Asked Spike. "The fight. I can't fight it anymore. I don't understand how, why, or what, but Pinkie Sense somehow... makes sense. I don't see how it does, but it just does. Just because I don't understand doesn't mean it's not true." Twilight stated. "Y-Y-Y-You m-m-mean you b-b-b-believe?" Pinkie asked while still stuttering. "Yeah, I guess I do" Twilight admited. All of a sudden Pinkie Stopped shuddering, and gasped. "That's it! That's the doozy". she stated confusing Twilight. "What, what is"? she asked. "You believing! I never expected thatto happen! That was the doozy, oh and, oh what a doozy of a doozy it was! La-la-la-la-la...". Pinkie stated as she happily skipped away. "That is one strange Pony". Reiner whispered. "Yeah, but she's our strange Pony". Fluttershy stated. "I just wanna get home and rest". Applejack replied. She then turned to her sister. "Oh, and Apple Bloom, could you not tell Granny Smith about this, otherwise I'll never hear the end of it". Apple Bloom just nodded. Later that day Spike arrived at the libraby where Twilight, and Pinkie Pie were. "Oh, good, Spike, you're here. Take a letter." Twilight told him "With pleasure Twilight". Spike stated. "Dear Princess Celestia, I'm happy to report that" Twilight started, but stopped when she saw that Spike wasn't writing anything. "Spike, what have I been saying about focus?" She asked. "I know, but I... Well... Spike tried to say. Twilight just chuckled. "What's wrong, Spike? Never thought you'd see me with an umbrella hat on?" She asked. "Not really, no." Spike admitted. "Pinkie's tail's a-twitchin'. What else can I do?" Twilight replied. All three of them laughed as Twilight continued the letter. "I am happy to report that I now realize there are wonderful things in this world you just can't explain, but that doesn't necessarily make them any less true. It just means you have to choose to believe in them, and sometimes it takes a friend to show you the way". "Honk"! Pinkie giggled. "Honk". Spike wrote down. "Always your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle". Twilight concluded as she and Pinkie walked out of the libary Pinkie's tail twitching again. "There it goes again". She stated. "I wonder what's gonna drop out of the sky this time"? Twilight asked. "You never know". Pinkie replied. Spike opened the window and was about to send the letter, only for Princess Celestia to land infront of him and take the letter. "Twitchy tail?" he muttered as Celestia flew away "Holy guacamole"! Spike exclaimed. Preview Rainbow Dash is getting ready for a compettion in Cloudsdale, and wants to peform a Sonic Rainboom, But her nerves get the better of her when her old childhood bullies tell her she won't be able to do it. Next Episode. Sonic Rainboom. Author's Note Characters in order of Appearace Twilight Sparkle Spike Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Applejack Apple Bloom Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Crafty Crate Derpy Hooves Rainbow Dash (Flashback) Rarity (Flashback) Princess Celestia
Episode 23: Sonic Rainboom: Gala arc Part 16On the outskirts of the Everfree Forest Rainbow Dash appeared to be coaching Fluttershy on something. "Now what have we learned". Dash asked. "Loss of control" Fluttershy answered. "Good". Rainbow Dash complemented. "Screaming and hollering." Fluttershy continued. "Yes, and most importantly?" Rainbow Dash asked. "Passion!" Fluttershy responeded. Rainbow Dash smiled. "Good, now that you know the elements of a good cheer, let's hear one". Rainbow Dash commanded. "Fluttershy took a deep breath, and let out a soft. "Yay". Rainbow Dash looked at her in confusion, and sighed. "... Ugh. You're gonna cheer for me like that? Louder." She ordered. "Yay". Fluttershy said just as softly as before. "Louder"! Dash ordered "Yay". Fluttershy said again, still extremely softly. "Louder"! Dash demanded. Fluttershy took a deep breath, and let out another soft. "Yaaaaaaaaay" Rainbow Dash groaned and frustration, and slumped to the ground. "Too loud"? Fluttershy asked innocently. Rainbow Dash stood atop a cloud, as Fluttershy watched from bellow. "Yay". she softly said. Rainbow Dash took a deep breath, and leaped off the cloud. Flying to the ground, and past some flowers. "And now, phase one of my routine." She flew in between several trees at an extreme speed. "Wooo". Fluttershy softly said as Rainbow Dash shot past her, and flew back up into the air. "Phase two". Dash said. She flew up to three different clouds, and flew around them, causing them to spin around like spinning tops. "Way to go." Said Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash then flew up as high as she could go. Her plan was to peform a sonic rainboom. A legendary stunt that causes a powerful blast to occur, and a rainbow to appear. Most ponies believe that it is just a legend, and no one can peform it. "Here we go. Phase three. The sonic rainboom." Rainbow Dash flew down at a high speed, the sound barrier started to break, her eyes tearing up. "C'mon". she groaned as Fluttershy watched on in anticpation, but no Rainbow Dash ultimantley failed and was lauched backwards. At the Golden Oak Libraby Twilight, Sparkle, Reiner Braun, Bertholdt Hoover, Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie had been cleaning up Twilight's books, and had just put the last one up. "Last one. Thank you so much for helping me clean up all these books, guys. It was a crazy week of studying". Twilight stated just as Rainbow Dash came crashing in, making the place a mess again. Fluttershy flew in afterwards. "Rainbow Dash, you rock! Woohoo." Fluttershy then saw the mess and gasped. "Did my cheering do that"? she asked innocently. Rainbow Dash got up and turned to the others. "Hehe. Sorry about that guys." She apologzied before turning to Fluttershy. "That was a truly feeble performance." She stated. Fluttershy, not knowing that Rainbow Dash was refering to her cheering, and not Rainbow Dash's failed sonic rainboom smiled sweetly. "Actually, it wasn't all bad. I particularly liked it when you made the clouds spin." She said innocently. Rainbow Dash groaned, and slapped her forehead. " Ugh. I'm not talking about my performance, I'm talking about yours. That feeble cheering!" Rainbow Dash scolded." "What are you two arguing about"? asked Reiner. Fluttershy looked at him confused. "We were arguing? Oh I'm sorry". she apologized. Rainbow Dash merley grunted and turned to the others. "I wish you guys could come to Cloudsdale to see me compete in the Best Young Flyer Competition." she stated. "What's that"? asked Twilight. "It's where all the greatest Pegasus flyers get together and show off their different flying styles! Some are fast!" Pinkie Pie stated. "And some are graceful. Whoa, whoa, whoa!" Pinkie Pie stated again. Unfourtenlty she wasn't very graceful. Applejack then spoke up. "Man I'd love to see you strut yer stuff in that competition." She stated. "Yeah. I wish you guys could be there. Fluttershy's a great support, but her cheering isn't exactly inspirational." Rainbow Dash replied. "Ooh! I'd love to see you make a sonic rainboom! It's like, the most coolest thing ever! Even though I've never actually seen it, but I mean come on! It's a sonic rainboom! How not cool could it possibly not be?!" Pinkie Pie said. "What's a sonic rainboom"? asked Bertholdt. "You three really need to get out more. The sonic rainboom is legendary! When a Pegasus like Rainbow Dash gets going sooo fast... Boom! A sonic boom and a rainbow can happen all at once!" Pinkie Pie explained. "And Rainbow Dash here is the only one to ever pull it off". Applejack said. "It was a long time ago... I was just a filly". Rainbow Dash stated. "Yeah, but you're gonna do it again, right?" Pinkie Pie asked excitedly. "Are... you kidding? I'm the greatest flyer to ever come out of Cloudsdale! I could do sonic rainbooms in my sleep." Rainbow Dash assured her. Hearing about the sonic rainboom made Twilight hopeful for Rainbow Dash "Wow. If you pull that off, you'll win the crown for sure!" She stated. "I'll say, that'll be something worth seeing for sure" Reiner replied. "The grand prize is an entire day with the Wonderbolts. A whole day of flying with my lifelong heroes... It'll be a dream come true!" Rainbow Dash told them. "Yay". Fluttershy softly said. Rainbow Dash turned back to the others. "I'm gonna go rest up. Don't wanna over prepare myself, y'know. Hehe." she said before turning to Fluttershy. "You, on the other hand, better keep practicing. I need a cheering section to match my spectacular performance". She told the shy pegagus before flying away. Fluttershy watched as Rainbow Dash flew away before turning back to the others. "She's practiced that move a hundred times, and she's never even come close to doing it. I don't know if I can cheer loud enough to help her." She said worriedly before flying away. After both Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy left Twilight turned to the others. "Well, guess we better get this cleaned up... again." She told them as she started to clean up the mess, only for Rarity to nudge her. "Go on, go on". Rarity urged. "Go on what"? Twilight asked in confusion. "Find a spell that will get us wingless ponies into Cloudsdale. Didn't you see how nervous she was?" Rarity explained. "Nervous? Have you spit yer bit or somethin'? She was tootin' her own horn louder than the brass section of a marching band!" Applejack firmly stated. Rarity just rolled her eyes. "Oh, puh-lease. I have put on enough fashion shows to recognize stage fright when I see it. We've got to find a way to be there for her. Now go on!" Rarity stated as she shoved Twilight into the books. "But how am I suppose to find a flight spell in all of this crap". Twilight asked. "Flight spell? One second". Pinkie Pie stated as she ran to grab a book. "Page 27". she said as she threw the book at Twilight who began looking through it. "How did you do that"? asked Applejack. "It landed on my face when Rainbow Dash knocked me into the bookcase". Pinkie Pie explained just as Twilight found the spell. "Here it is! A spell that will allow Earth ponies to fly for three days. Ooh, it looks really difficult... I'm not sure I can do it. Twilight admitted worridely. "You've got to try". Rarity insisted. "Okay, who wants to be the test subject"? Twilight asked. After thinking for a moment Rarity decieded to offer herself. "I will! For Rainbow Dash, I will go first." Rarity stated. Twilight turned to Rarity and agreed to do the spell. "Here it goes". she said as she lit up her horn, surronding Rarity. Twilight groaned and grunted as she performed the spell. Finally the spell was complete, and Rarity had a new set of wings. "I think it worked". Twilight stated. "Alright but what about the rest of us"? asked Applejack. "There is no way I can perfom that spell four more times". Twilight stated. "Well maybe there's something in that book that's eaiser". Bertholdt replied Twilight went back to the book, and began looking through it. Eventually she found a spell that looked promising. "Here's one, it allows Earth Ponies, and Unicorns to walk on clouds, and it looks fairly simple". Twilight stated. "Alright well do that one then". Reiner suggested. Twilight nodded and lit up her horn, eveloping herself, Applejack, Reiner, and Pinkie Pie in a magic light. Currently Publicly Avaliable Imformation Cloudsdale. A town located in the skys of Equestria that is home to several Pegasi. It is stated that only Pegasi have the abilty to walk on clouds. If an Earth Pony or Unicorn tried to go to walk on Cloudsdale without the help from a magic spell they would fall through the clouds. The next day was the day of the compettion. Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy were making their way to cloudsdale as Rainbow Dash was reminding Fluttershy to try and cheer louder then she did yesterday. "You've got to learn to be assertive, Fluttershy. Don't be afraid to speak up." Rainbow Dash told her as they made their way to Cloudsdale. "I know, but the thought of yelling and screaming just doesn't sit right with me". Fluttershy admited. "Well it's going to have to Fluttershy, after all you're my only support". Rainbow Dash stated. Then they heard a familar voice call out to them. "Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy wait up". Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy turned around to see Bertholdt flying after them. "Bertholdt? What are you doing here"? asked Fluttershy. "Reiner and the others suggested that I come too to help cheer Rainbow Dash on with you Fluttershy". Bertholdt stated. Rainbow Dash smiled. "Heh that's great, Now hopefully with two of my friends with me I should be able to pull this off". The three of them finally arrived at Cloudsdale and landed infront of three stalions who seemed to be waiting for them. "Well, well, well. What do we have here?" one of them asked. "It's our old friend Rainbow Crash!" Another replied as they began to laugh. "Who are they"? Bertholdt asked Fluttershy. "Hoops, Dumb-bell, and Score. The three meanest stalions in all of Cloudsdale. They always picked on Rainbow Dash, and I during our time at Flight School". Fluttershy answered. The three of them kept talking down Rainbow Dash who tried her best to ignore them. "Get kicked outta any flight schools lately?". Dumb-bell snickered as he Hoops, and Score all laughed. "I didn't get kicked out". Rainbow Dash mutterd. "Face it, Rainbow Crash. Flight school had too many rules, and not enough naptimes for you." Dumb-bell sneered. "Huh, ask her about the sonic rainboom". Hoops laughed. "That's nothing but an old mare's tale. You don't have the skills to try something like that." Dumb-bell retorted. The three of them kept laughing, and mocking Rainbow Dash, who to Bertholdt's suprise actually looked like she was about to cry. He felt something inside him, a feeling he normally didn't feel, his heart pounded as he listen to the three bullies laugh. "ENOUGH"! Rainbow Dash, Hoops, Dumb-bell Score, and Fluttershy turned and faced Bertholdt who looked up in shock, as if comprehending what he had just done. Finally Dumb-bell walked towards him. "Who are you yelling at"? he demanded as Bertholdt tried to back away. "Did you think you could beat me just because you're bigger"? Dumb-bell asked. "Uh, n-no way! You've got it all wrong". Bertholdt tried to assure that he meant nothing by his statement. Now physically yes, Bertholdt was bigger then all of them, but he wasn't much of a fighter, he'd always leave that up to Reiner. So while he could most likely beat them, he wanted to figure out a way not to. "Alright think. How can I loose on purpose and make it look real" He pondered as Dumb-bell continued. "Oh I've got it all wrong do I? Bend down, I'll punch your face nice and hard". He taunted just as Bertholdt thought of something. "I know, I'll pretend to drop a coin, bend down to pick it up, and" "Now wait just a minute"! Bertholdt was taken out of his thoughts when Fluttershy spoke up. Now everypony's attention was on her. "Oh, I'm sorry. I'm trying to be more assertive." Fluttershy apologized before continuing. "Anyhow. First of all you leave him alone". She told Dumb-bell. "And secondly Rainbow Dash will do a sonic rainboom". Fluttershy stated. Dumb-bell just scoffed. "No she won't, cause there's no such thing." "Then show up at the Cloudeseum and see for yourself! ...If you're free." Fluttershy suggested. Hoops, Dumb-bell and Score just laughed as they flew away. "Yeah I'll be free". Hoops laughed. "Oh, don't worry. We'll be there!" Dumb-bell assured Fluttershy. He then turned to Bertholdt. "And you. Watch what you say, cause next time you won't have your little girlfriend to defend you." Dumb-bell stated before flying away with his friends. After they left Fluttershy turned to Bertholdt. "Are you okay, I've never seen you act like that before". she stated. "Huh? Oh, yeah I'm fine". Bertholdt replied. Fluttershy seemed satasfied with Bertholdt's answer and smiled at him, and Rainbow Dash. "Did you see that? I was so assertive"! Fluttershy asked chipperly. Rainbow Dash didn't answer, and just sighed. "Those guys are right. I'll never be able to do it." Fluttershy just smiled and tried to reassure her. "But Rainbow Dash, just because you've failed the sonic rainboom a hundred thousand times in practice doesn't mean you won't be able to do it in front of an entire stadium, full of impatient, super-critical sportsfan ponies." She stated. However all that did was increase Rainbow Dash's worries about failing. "Aaaaah! What do I do?! Everypony's gonna see me fail! The Wonderbolts will never let a loser like me join. Princess Celestia will probably banish me to the Everfree Forest! My life is ruined! She paniced. Bertholdt looked at Fluttershy. "Uh.... Maybe that was a bit much". He stated. However Fluttershy wasn't paying attention to him, and seemed to be looking at something Rainbow Dash. "Rare"? Fluttershy meekely stated causing Rainbow Dash to stare at her. "Rare?! The sonic rainboom is way more than rare!" Rainbow Dash scolded, but Fluttershy didn't respond, she just kept looking at something behind Rainbow Dash. Curious, Bertholdt turned his gaze to where Fluttershy was looking, unlike Fluttershy, he simpled smiled "Rarity"? Fluttershy questioned, her mouth a gape Rainbow Dash turned around in confusion, and then too gasped when she saw Rarity. With a pair of what looked to be sparkling butterfly wings, and flying. "Rarity! Are you... flying?!" Rainbow Dash asked. Rarity smiled at the three ponies. "I most certainly am! Aren't my wings smashing?! Twilight made them for me. I just adore them! Why so shocked? We couldn't leave our favorite flyer without a big cheering section"! She replied. "We"? Rainbow Dash asked in confusion. Just then a hot air baloon floated up through the clouds, and out came Twilight, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and Reiner. A huge smile formed on Rainbow Dash's face seeing all her friends come to cloudsdale. "I can't believe it, you all made it". she said happily. "We sure did". Pinkie Pie replied. Rainbow Dash then turned, and saw Bertholdt smiling sheepishly. "Bertholdt? Did you know about this"? She asked. Bertholdt simply nodded. Rainbow Dash then turned back to the others, and was shocked to see her friends walking on the clouds. "Wait! How'd you do that? Only Pegasus ponies can walk on clouds." "Haha. Pretty cool, huh?" Pinkie Pie stated. "I found a spell that makes temporary wings, but it was too difficult to do more than once. So I found an easier spell that lets the rest of us walk on clouds." Twilight explained. "And we came to cheer you to victory!" Applejack stated. "We sent Bertholdt ahead, to prepare for the suprise." Reiner then added. Seeing all her friends now with her made Rainbow Dash a little more at ease now, knowing that the ponies she cared about were their to cheer her on. "To be honest, I was starting to get just the teeniest, tiniest bit nervous. But I feel a lot better now that you guys are here. Hey, we've got some time before the competition. Why don't Fluttershy and I show you around Cloudsdale?" Rainbow Dash suggested. "Yes". the others all said excitedly. Rainbow Dash led her friends into the city. "Here it is: the greatest city in the sky!" Rainbow Dash proudly declared. The others all stared in amazement at the sight, well all except Rarity. She was too busy admiring herself in the mirror as the others just stared at her. "Uhh... Some of the greatest Pegasi in history came from Cloudsdale!" Rainbow Dash explained, trying her best to ignore Rarity who just noticed that they were leaving. "Hey wait for me"! She exclaimed as she flew after the group. The group flew past some pegasi worker stailions who all stopped to gaze at Rarity's wings. "Those wings are gorgeous!" One of them said. "Why thank you". Rarity replied appreciating the complement. "Be careful with those wings, Rarity. They're made from gossamer and morning dew, and they're incredibly delicate." Twilight warned. "Don't worry, Twilight. I'm sure they can't get worn out from too much attention." Rarity insisited. Decieding it was best to ignore Rarity Applejack turned to Rainbow Dash. "Since we're up here, I'd sure like to get a look at where the weather's made." The farm pony stated. That made Rainbow Dash smile. "Great idea! C'mon, guys to the weather factory"! Rainbow Dash led the group into the part of the weather factory where the snowflakes were made. "This is where they make the snowflakes. Each one is hoofmade. As you can see, it's a delicate operation." Rainbow Dash explained. "Ooh, the snowflakes look even better from up here." Rarity admired. Her wings however created a chain reaction, which resulted in the snowflakes being blown around the room as the workers tried their best to catch them. "We better move on before Rarity ruins winter and causes a drought." Rainbow Dash declared. Rainbow Dash and the others then arrived at the Rainbow section of the Weather Factory. "And here's where they make the rainbows!" She declared. Pinkie Pie walked over to one of the fountains and stuck her hoof in it. She then licked the rainbow liquid off her hoof, only to be unplesentely greeted by a hot taste in her mouth. "Spicyyyyyy!..." Applejack bursted out laughing as Pinkie Pie ran off to cool her mouth down, while both Twilight and Reiner did their best to hold their laughter back. "Yeah, rainbows aren't really known for their flavor." Rainbow Dash stated. Then she heard Dumb-bell's voice again. Rainbow Dash turned and saw that the three builles were complementing Rarity's wings. "Whoa! Oh, where'd you get those amazing wings? I want a pair!" Dumb-bell said. "Hmm... Yeah, I guess I could see that." Rarity agreed. Dumb-bell then spotted Rainbow Dash. "Oh, hey look, it's Rainbow Crash again!" He announced. "Heheheyeah! Rainbow... Umm... Eyah... Crash!" Hoops repeted. "Rarity! What're you doing talking to these guys?" Rainbow Dash asked in other disbelief. "Oh, they were just admiring my wings, Rainbow Dash." Rarity replied. "Yeah, you should forget the sonic rainboom and just get yourself some wings like these!" Dumb-bell declared as he Hoops and Score left, laughing. Seeing Rainbow Dash was getting upset, Fluttershy turned to the others. "Uhh... C'mon, guys. Why don't we go see how clouds are made?" She sugguested before turning to Rainbow Dash. "Don't listen to them. You're gonna win that competition for sure!" Fluttershy said trying to reassure Rainbow Dash. "She's right Dash, don't let them get to you". Bertholdt stated. Rainbow Dash just sighed. "Are you kidding? I can't do the sonic rainboom, and just look at these boring, plain old feathered wings. I'm doomed!" Rainbow Dash declared as Twilight, Reiner, and Applejack all looked at each other in concern Inside the cloud room, Rainbow Dash was still moaping, meanwhile Rarity was basking in the attention her wings were giving her. "What, these old things? Go ahead, everypony. Photos are encouraged." She declared as Fluttershy, Reiner, Twilight, Applejack, and Bertholdt scowled at her, they then looked at Rainbow Dash, and saw that Rarity's boasting was doing nothing to help her anxiety. Reiner walked up to Rarity to confront her. "Rarity, we're supposed to be helping Rainbow Dash relax, remember? Put your wings away and stop showing off!" He ordered. Rarity however just ignored him, and continued to show off. "Oh, pfft. How can you ask me to put away perfection?" she stated. "Did you forget that coming here to support Rainbow Dash was your idea"? Reiner asked. "Oh Reiner, I never said that, I said let's go to Cloudsdale". Rarity replied. This made Reiner, Twilight, Bertholdt, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Applejack gasp, but Rarity was too busy enjoying the attention to notice or even care as she flew up to higher in the sky, the sunlight reflecting off her wings, and making them sparkle. "Waa-haa-haa!" Rarity laughed with excitment. Twilight walked over to Rainbow Dash, who seemed to be in the middle of a mild panic attack. "Rainbow Dash, are you okay? You don't look so good". she acknowledged. "Of course! Why wouldn't I be okay? Everyone's so in love with Rarity's wings that they won't even notice when I totally blow it in the Best Young Flyer's Competition". Rainbow Dash declared. One of the weather workers overheard that. "Hey! There's an idea! YOU should enter the competition!" She declared. "Yeah I could watch you fly all day long". said another. Rarity thought for a bit, and then smiled. "There really isn't anypony who uses their wings quite like me. Perhaps I should compete." She decieded shocking all of her friends. "WHAT"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed as the weather ponies all looked on at Rarity as she flew away. Rainbow Dash stood in disbelief at what had just transpired as Twilight, Reiner, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Bertholdt all walked up to her. "What am I gonna DO?! I'll never win the competition now..." She asked her friends. Soon it was time for the compettiton to begin. The audicene began filling in their seats, while the competitors were in a backroom getting ready. One of them went to use the washroom, only for Rarity to open the door, and bascially shoe them away. "I'm going to be a while!' She said in a sing-song voice. Rainbow Dash walked over to the curtain and peered out of it, on one of the seats she saw her friends, bellow them were the builles. Rainbow Dash gulped as the host began the show. "Fillies and gentlecolts! Please rise and join me in welcoming our beloved Princess Celestia!" He announced. The audiance all cheered as Princess Celestia herself floated down on one of the VIP seats. "Please welcome our celebrity judges for the Best Young Flyer Competition: the Wonderbolts!" The anouncer said. The crowed cheered and appluaded as the Wonderbolts arrived. "And now, let's find out who will take the prize as this year's best young flyer!" He concluded. Back stage, the contestants all got ready to go out. "Okay, contestant number one, you're up." The coach told one of the ponies. Rainbow Dash looked to see what number she was, and to her horror realized that she was next. Panicking she quickly spotted the fifth constestant. Quietly sneaking over she quickly switch their numbers just as the coach called number two. "Okay, number two, let's go." At first no one moved. "C'mon number two we don't have all day". The Coach stated. "She's talking to you!" Rainbow Dash told the pony she switched with. "Oh. Umm... Oh, I guess that's me!" the stalion stated as he went out. Rainbow Dash then switched with another pony as the coach called out the next compettetor. "Okay, number four, time to go." Rarity came out of the washroom, still getting ready. "I'm number four, and I need just one more itsy-bitsy minute. Be a dear and have somepony go ahead of me, hmm?" She suggested. "Look, I don't care who it is, but somepony's gotta go on!" The coach stated. "Let's do this!" Number Seven exclaimed. Rainbow Dash looked down, seeing she was number six began to worry. "Uhh... What am I gonna do?" She asked herself. Then she spotted number 15, and quickly switched numbers again. Outside in the audiance, the rest of the Mane Eight were watching the contest. "Reiner, and I loved number seven the best". Twilight told her friends with Reiner nodding in agreement. "Yeah, doing fifteen barrel rolls in a row can't be easy." "Our favorite was number ten". Bertholdt stated. "Yeah, she seemed like such as nice pony". Fluttershy agreeed. Applejack looked up at the course, a look of confusion briefly appearing on her face. "You alright AJ"? Asked Reiner. Applejack nodded. "Yeah, I'm just wondering". "Wondering what"? Bertholdt asked. "How come we haven't seen Rainbow Dash or Rarity yet. The competition's almost over." Applejack replied. "Hmmmm, Now that you mention it, it is kind of strange we haven't seen either of them yet". Reiner stated. Backstage Rainbow Dash was curled up in the fetal postion next to a poll trembling as the coach came up to her. "Number fifteen, let's go!" She tried to urged Rainbow Dash who refused to move. All of a sudden, the door to the wash room opened, and Rarity stepped out, all decked out in lipstick, mascara, and a new dress. "Rarity... is ready!" She announced. "Look, ladies. I don't know what to tell you. There's only time for one more performance. If you both want to compete, you'll just have to go out there together!" The coach said. Rarity smiled, and trotted over to Rainbow Dash. "Well, Rainbow Dash? Shall we?" Rarity asked. Rainbow Dash only made small babbling noises in response. Outside, the announcer called out the final contestants. "And now, for our final competitor of the day, contestant number fifteen!" He announced as Rainbow Dash slowly flew out, with Rarity following after her, confusing the announcer. "Uhh... And apparently contestant number four...". The crowd cheered for both Rainbow Dash, and Rarity. Rainbow Dash gulped nervously as Rarity turned to her. "Good luck, Rainbow Dash. Just do your best. I hope you don't mind, but I took the liberty of changing our music. That "rock and roll" doesn't really match my wings." Rarity stated as she started her reutine which consisted of her doing various twirls and leaps similar to what a ballearina would do. Rainbow Dash looked on in worry, but tried to reassure herself. "C'mon, Rainbow Dash. You can do this. Just remember the routine. Phase one." Rainbow Dash started flying in between the pilars infront of her, and things seem to be going well for awhile until she bumped into one of the pillars causing her to spin out. "Oof. Waaah!" She yelped as she crashed into one of the stands. "Nice work, Rainbow Crash!" Hoops teased as he, Dumb-bell, and Score all laughed. Rarity meanwhile continued her performance. Rainbow Dash ignored what was happening around her, and chose to continue with her routine. "Time for phase two". she mummbled. Rainbow Dash then began to spin around several clouds. "Look, phase two is working". Fluttershy pointed out. "You're right, maybe she still has a chance". Reiner replied. However, Rainbow Dash was spinning so face that it caused one of the clouds to be blown towards Princess Celestia, who quickly ducked out of the way. Rainbow Dash's anxiety was now getting worse, while Rarity was still continuing with her dance. "And now for my grand finale. I will fly right up to the sun and beam my beautiful wings over the whole city of Cloudsdale! They'll be talking about it for years!" She squealed in delight. She then ascened high into the sky. Rainbow Dash watched Rarity fly up. Realizing she only had one chance left to turn things around Rainbow Dash decieded she had to go for the final step in her routine. "Looks like this is my last chance to turn things around. Phase three. The sonic". She gulped as she thought about what she was going to do. "Rainboom, Wings, don't fail me now!" She said as she flew up after Rarity. Rainbow Dash and Rarity both flew up as high as they could go. Eventually, Rarity stopped once she was directly infront of the sun. She looked out, the view she saw was incredible. She could see all of Ponyville from the hight she was, and it was simply breath taking. "Look upon me, Equestria, for I... am... Rarity!" She announced to the crowd who ooohed and awwed at her, but then, do the the fact that she was directly behind the sun caused her wings to disentgrate. "Uh oh". Rarity mutterd, and then she began falling. (進撃 st-hrn-egt20130629 巨人 Plays) The audiance gasped in horror at the sight of Rarity falling. "Oh no! Her wings evaporated into thin air!" Twilight exclamied! Three of the Wonderbolts flew down in an attempt to rescue Rarity, but her flailing hooves knocked all of them out, now Rarity and three wonderbolts were falling to their deaths. Rainbow Dash, who had still be flying higher, heard Rarity's screams, and looked back to see the unicorn mare falling. Immeditldy, Dash flew into action. "Hold on, Rarity! I'm coming!" Rainbow Dash shouted as she flew down as fast as she could. "Oh, I can't look!" Fluttershy whimpered as she burried her face into Bertholdt's chest. Rainbow Dash flew as hard, and as fast as she could. Her eyes watering do to the speed she was going. Rarity, who was still falling, was able to notice something happening. The audiance noticed it too, and so did the rest of the Mane Eight, with Bertholdt beckoning for Fluttershy to look. When Fluttershy did open her eyes and look down, she saw Rainbow Dash speeding down towards Rarity and the knocked out wonderbolts. Then, all of a sudden, Rainbow Dash did what most thought was impossible, she pulled off a second Sonic Rainboom. When Fluttershy saw it she began cheering wildly and loudly, louder then she's ever cheered before. "A sonic rainboom! She did it! She did it! Wooo!" Rainbow Dash swooped down, and manged to catch Rarity, and the Wonderbolts just in time before they hit the ground. Dash then looked back, and saw what she did. "Whoa." She said in disbelief. When Rainbow Dash and Rarity made it back to cloudsdale everypony was cheering. "A sonic rainboom! Wooo! Yeah!" Fluttershy cheered. Tears filled Rainbow Dash's eyes as she realized that she had achived her goal of peforming a sonic rainboom. "I did it. I did it!" She stated. Rarity, who was being held up by two pegasi do to the loss of her wings, smiled at Rainbow Dash. "You sure did. Oh thank you, Rainbow Dash. You saved my life!" Rarity said her voice filled with gratitude. "Oh yeah. I did that too. Ha, best day ever!" Rainbow Dash replied. Later, Rarity was back in the hot air balloon apologzing to the others. "I want to apologize to all of you for getting so carried away with my... beautiful wings. I guess I just lost my head." "It's okay". said Fluttershy "We forgive you". Replied Bertholdt. "Oh, don't worry about it,". Applejack stated. "It's all good". Reiner reassured. "We still love you". Pinkie Pie smiled. Rarity smiled back at her friends, and then turned to Rainbow Dash. "And I'm especially sorry that I was so thoughtless as to jump into the contest at the last minute after you had worked so hard to win it. Can you ever ever forgive me?" Rarity asked. "Aw, it's okay. Everything turned out all right, right?" Rainbow Dash stated. She then let out a small sigh. "What's wrong Rainbow"? asked Reiner. "I just wish I could have met the Wonderbolts when they were awake." Rainbow Dash admitted. She looked down in disappointment. "Uh, I don't think you have to worry about that". Bertholdt stated. Rainbow Dash looked up in confusion at Bertholdt, and then felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned to see Spitfire, captain of the wonderbolts smiling at her, along with two other members, Soarin, and Misty Fly. "Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!" Rainbow Dash could barley contain her excitment. Spitfire smiled. "So you're the little pony who saved our lives. We really wanted to meet you, and say thanks." She told Rainbow Dash, who was still in complete shock. "Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!" Princess Celestia then flew down to greet them. "Princess". Twilight greeted. "Hello Twilight Sparkle, and to your friends too". Celestia greeted them. Rarity looked over in shame. "Princess Celestia, I am sorry I ruined the competition. Rainbow Dash here really is the best flyer in Equestria." She apolgized. Princess Celestia smiled. "I know she is, my dear. That's why, for her incredible act of bravery and her spectacular sonic rainboom, I'm presenting the grand prize for Best Young Flyer to this year's winner, Miss Rainbow Dash!" The crowd all cheered. "Ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh ohmygosh!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed. Celestia then turned to Twilight. "So Twilight Sparkle, did you learn anything about friendship from this experience?" " I did Princess, but I think Rarity learned even more than me." Twilight stated. Rarity nodded. "I certainly did. I learned how important it is to keep your hooves on the ground, and be there for your friends." "Excellent, well done Rarity". Celestia replied. "This really is the best day ever!" Dash smiled. Then she looked behind her to see Hoops, Dumb-bell, and Score standing a few feet away. "Uhh, hey, Rainbow Crash." Dumb-bell said meekly before being nudged by Hoops. "Dash"! Hoops corrected. "Oh! Uhh... Sorry. Rainbow Dash. Uhh, we just wanted to congratulate you on winning the competition." Dumb-bell stated. "That sonic rainboom was awesome". Hoops said. "Heh, thanks guys". Rainbow Dash replied. "Uhh, we're really sorry we gave you such a hard time before." Dumb-bell apolgized. "Aww, that's okay. Don't worry about it." Rainbow Dash forgave them "Hey. Do you want to hang out with us? Maybe you could show us how you did that incredible trick!" Dumb-bell asked. Rainbow Dash smiled, but she had to refuse the offer. "Sorry boys, but I got Plans". Rainbow Dash stated as she flew off with the Wonderbolts. Preview Thinking it will be easy, Fluttershy offers to watch the Cutie Mark Crusaders for the night, but she soon learns that taking care of three little filles might be a little harder then she thought. Next Episode. Stare Master Author's Note Characters in Order of Apperance Rainbow Dash Fluttershy Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Pinkie Pie Rarity Applejack Bertholdt Hoover Derpy Hooves Hoops Dumb-bell Score Steam Roller Rainbowshine Foggy Fleece Madden Princess Celestia Lucy Packard Spitfire Soarin Misty Fly Meadow Song
Episode 24: Stare Master: Gala arc Part 17Inside Carosuel Botique, Sweetie Belle watched as Rarity franticly searched for an item she needed for a project she was working on. "Ohh, and I can't forget I've got to... oh, how am I ever gonna get this done?" Rarity panicked as Sweetie Belle watched on. "Are you sure I can't help? I could". Sweetie Belle began to offer, only for Rarity to shoot her down. "No!" Rarity scolded firmly. "Maybe just a". Sweetie Belle tried to say again. "No thanks"! Rarity stated again. Again Sweetie Belle tried to offer her help. "How About"? "Just stand over there"! Rarity demanned. "But—" Sweetie Belle started "Where you'll be out of the way"! Rarity shouted as she went back to looking for what she needed. "Ribbon, ribbon! Where's the ribbon?!" Rarity wondered franticly. "I got it"! Sweetie Belle exclaimed as she found where the ribbion was. However when she tried to reach for it Sweetie Belle ending up knocking over the the display it was on creating a big mess. Sweetie Belle looked up at Rarity and chuckled nervously. "Um, I-I'll just go and stand over there, where I'll be... out of the way." Sweetie Belle stated as she moved into the corner while Rarity sighed. Rarity spent the next several minutes sorting out the mess while Sweetie Belle once again offered her help. "Won't you at least let me help you clean up?" She asked. "No, you've helped quite enough already". Rarity insisted. "I'm sorry, sis! I just thought that if I could help, I might find my special gift and finally earn my cutie mark." Sweetie Belle apologized. Rarity sighed. "I understand. It's just that... I need this time to fill this order without any... complications. Okay, all done. Now, back to work. I've lost a lot of time, and I cannot have any more interruptions". All of a sudden the doorbell rang. "Oh what now"?! Rarity groaned as Fluttershy walked in, but soon began to step out after hearing Rarity complain "Oh, sorry. I thought the "open" sign meant you were open, but I must have been mistaken." Fluttershy said innocentlly. Seeing that it was Fluttershy, Rarity's mood instantily changed. "Fluttershy! Forgive me! I was so wrapped up in my work that I forgot you were bringing Opalescence back from her grooming"! Fluttershy Smiled. "No worries, Rarity. I've left her there in the basket." Fluttershy assured as the cat came out of the basket. "Oh, she looks great! I just don't understand how you're able to do it! I can't get near her without getting a swipe from her claws." Rarity stated as she tried to get a closer look only for Opal to his at her. Rarity jumped back. "Ahh! Did you use... the Stare on her?" Rarity asked. Fluttershy gasped in shock that Rarity would ask her such a question. "Oh, no! I wouldn't! I couldn't! I-I don't really have any control over when that happens. I-It just happens. No, I'm just good with animals. It's my special gift, you know?" Fluttershy stated. "Well, you should have a picture of Opal as a cutie mark instead of those butterflies." Rarity laughed. The conversation between Fluttershy, and Rarity gave Sweeite Belle an idea. "Ooh, ooh, oh, oh, oh, oh! Maybe I can be good with animals, too!" She suggested. Only for Opal to shice off a peace of her hair. "Or not." Sweetie Belle chuckled nervously as she backed away. Fluttershy and Rarity both laughed. "I'm sorry I can't invite you to stay and chat, Fluttershy. I've bitten off a bit more than I can chew with this order." Rarity apologized. This statment confused Sweetie Belle. "But you're not eating anything." "No, Sweetie, it's an expression. It means that I've taken on more work than I can handle. I've got twenty of these special robes to make tonight! They're due in Trottingham tomorrow morning." Rarity explained as she showed Fluttershy what she was working on. "See? I've lined them in a special gold silk. It took so long to make, but I think it adds just the right touch, don't you?" Rarity asked. "These are lovely, but twenty by tonight? How will you get it all done?" Fluttershy asked. "Well, I, uh..." Rarity actually hadn't thought about what she was going to do in order to complete this project. "Oh, oh, oh! Maybe I could..." Sweetie Belle began, only for Rarity to glare at her. "just... just stand over here and watch." Sweetie Belle chuckled as she trotted over to the corner. "I'll mange". Rarity stated. Just then Scootaloo walked in. "Hi, Fluttershy! Hi, Rarity!" She greeted. "Oh! Hello, uh Scootaloo". Rarity greeted as Scootaloo went over to Sweetie Belle. "Hey Sweetie"! Scootaloo greeted "Scootaloo!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed excitedly. "Um, is Apple Bloom with you Scootaloo"? Rarity asked. "Yeah, she's on her way up now, but she had to take care of something first." "What exactly"? Fluttershy asked. "That, I actually don't know. All she said was "Head over to Rarity's I'll catch up with you in a bit". When I asked why she just said she needed to take care of something". Scootaloo replied. Then Apple Bloom walked in. "Hi Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo". She greeted her new friends. "Good evening Ms. Rarity, Ms. Fluttershy." Apple Bloom greeted the two older ponies. "Where did you go"? Asked Scootaloo. "Oh, Mr. Davenport had a small accident in his shop, nothing mager just dropped a few items and I helped him clean up". Apple Bloom explained. "Oh. Well anyways are you two ready for tonight"?! Scootaloo asked. "Yup! Cutie mark planning session is a go!" Sweetie Belle replied. "Tonight is the night we each try to find our own special talent." Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Even if it takes us all night"! Scootaloo proclaimed. "I'm ready, are you ready"? Apple Bloom asked Scootaloo. "Very ready"! Scootaloo replied. "Cutie Mark Crusader sleepover at Rarity's! Yay!" The CMCs all cheered. "And... look what I made us!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed as she pulled out three red capes with blue patches on them. Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Fluttershy were all amazed by Sweetie Belle's work. "Wow! That's so amazing". Apple Bloom complemented. "They're lovely. What does that patch mean"? Fluttershy asked. "The cutie mark crusaders! Yay!" The filles all cheered. "We're on a crusade, a mission!" Scootaloo replied. "To discover our special talents". Apple Bloom replied. "Yup. And look. I lined them with this special gold silk. It took sooo long to make, but I think it adds just the right touch, don't you?" Sweetie Belle asked as she showed them the golden inteior of the capes. "Oooooh!" Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Fluttershy all said in amazment. However their amazment was interuptted by Rarity shouting in horror. "Sweetie Belle! What have you done? That was the last of the gold silk! Oh, now I'll have to make more! Oh, I hope I can make more. I'm gonna have to work all night! Which means... Sorry, girls, I'm afraid the Crusaders sleepover is cancelled." Rarity stated with remorse. "What"?! Sweetie Belle exclaimed in shock. "I just won't have any time to watch you if I want to get these robes delivered on time." Rarity explained. "But"! Sweetie Belle began only for Rarity to stop her. "No buts! I'm sorry Belle, but this is just how things have to be". Rarity apologized. "Awwww". The crusaders said sadly. Seeing the dissapointment in their eyes Fluttershy knew she had to do something. "I, uh, I suppose I could take them for the night." She offered. "I couldn't ask you to do that." Rarity quickly declined. Fluttershy however was insisted that she do it. "It's really no trouble at all". She pointed out. Rarity looked up at Fluttershy. "It wouldn't be a problem with Apple Bloom that's for sure, but have you met Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo? A problem is all it would be". Rarity stated. "HEY"! Both Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo said offensivley while Apple Bloom tried to stiffle back a giggle. Fluttershy stared directly at Rarity with a serious look on her face. "Did I have trouble with Opal?" She asked. "Well.... No". Rarity replied. "Exactly, and you've seen how I do with small animals, I'm sure three filles would be no different". Rarity thought for a moment. "Fluttershy does have a point, and I do have alot to do, plus the Crusaders were looking forward to this for a while, and Fluttershy did just make things a bit eaiser for me". After a few miniutes of thinking it over Rarity looked up at Fluttershy "Are you sure you can handle this"? She asked. "Come on, it'll be fun". Fluttershy insisted. "I assure you they're qutie a handful". Rarity stated "These little angles"? Fluttershy asked as the filles all smiled. "That might be true with Apple Bloom". Rarity mumbeld under her breath. "What was that"? Asked Fluttershy "Nothing"! Rarity quickly stated. She then looked between Fluttershy, and the Crusaders. Finally, she sighed. "Well... all right." Rarity finally relented. The Crusaders all lit up at that. "Cutie Mark Crusader sleepover at Fluttershy's cottage! Yay!" They cheered as they ran out the door. "So Cute." Fluttershy cooed before realiezing they were already out the door. "W-wait for me!" She called after them. "Hmmmm, I wonder if Fluttershy can handle this, well hopefully Apple Bloom can help keep Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo in check". Rarity said to herself before going to continue her work. As the crusaders ran ahead Fluttershy followed behind them, eagerly going on about the fun they were going to have. "Oh, won't this be ever so fun? We can have a nice little tea party, and braid each others' tails, and sit quietly and color, and tell each other fairy tales, and—" Fluttershy stopped when she saw that Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were still running on ahead. Apple Bloom however had stopped and trotted back over to Fluttershy. "Sorry Ms. Fluttershy, were you saying something"? Apple Bloom asked. "Oh. No". Fluttershy replied. Apple Bloom looked up at her, but didn't press on any further. The two of them walked side be side in silence for a bit before Fluttershy spoke up. "So Apple Bloom, are you exicted for tonight"? She asked. Apple Bloom nodded her head. "You betcha I am for the first time in my life I feel like I have actual friends". Apple Bloom stated happily. Hearing that made Fluttershy's heart break as she recalled how Diamond Tiara and Silverspoon would bully Apple Bloom, and how she would mostly be alone at school. Still though, Fluttershy had to wonder about Twist, and so she asked. "But, what about Twist, weren't you friends with her"? Apple Bloom looked up at Fluttershy. "Twist is more of an in school friend instead of an out of school friend, and plus, we've kinda been drifting apart since she got her cutie mark." Apple Bloom replied. Fluttershy looked down. She was about to say something when both she and Apple Bloom heard a crash, and giggling. The two of them looked to see that Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo ran past a very dizzy looking Reiner Braun. He was then joined by Twilight Sparkle, and Bertholdt Hoover just as he composed himself. The three of them smiled at the two giggling filles just as Fluttershy, and Apple Bloom "Hello Fluttershy, Apple Bloom". Twilight greeted them. "Hello Twilight, Mr. Braun, and Mr. Hoover". Apple Bloom greeted politely as she and Fluttershy walked up to them. Fluttershy noticed they seemed to be heading somewhere. "Where are three going"? she asked. "We're going heading to the Everfree Forest to Zecora's place". Reiner stated. Twilight nodded. "Yeah, I'm getting some of my favorite type of tea, and Reiner, and Bertholdt agreed to come with me". As the older ponies talked, Apple Bloom went over to Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Back with the others Fluttershy shuddered at the thought of what they had said. "Th-The Everfree Forest? Ah, you'll be careful, won't you?" "Of course"! Bertholdt replied, but now he had a question of his own. "How about you? What are you doing with the girls"? He asked. "Rarity has a big order to fill tonight, so I volunteered to take the girls over to my cottage for a sleepover." Fluttershy replied. "Wow. Sounds like everypony has their hooves full today." Twilight stated. "I'll say". Reiner responded as he looked over at the CMCs. "Taking care of those three fillies all by yourself? You sure you can handle it?" He asked. "What? These sweet little angels? They'll be no problem at all." As Apple Bloom, Sweete Belle, and Scootaloo came back over, and smiled. Currently Publicly Available Imformation Cockatrices. Dangerous cretures from the Everfree Forest. They are part Chicken, part snake, and have the abilty to turn any creature into stone by staring at them. After about twenty minutes of walking, Fluttershy, and the Crusaders finally arrived at Fluttershy's cottage. Once inside, the CMCs were amazed "Woah, you take care of all these critters"? Apple Bloom asked in amazement. Fluttershy smiled, and nodded. "Most of them were injuried so badly that they couldn't go back out into the wild". She explained. Apple Bloom was about to ask another question when she heard Sweetie Belle exclaim "Wow! Look at this place! What's that? Are those chickens?" Apple Bloom went over to where Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were, and soon all three of them were talking over each other. Fluttershy thought back to what both Rarity, and Reiner had said. "No problem at all". She mummbled to herself before trying to get the CMCs attention. "Okay, girls, uh, what should we do?" She asked. However Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo weren't listening as they were too busy arguing. "I'm going to get my cutie mark first"! Scootaloo stated. "Nuh-uh!" Sweetie Belle retorted. "Girls"? Fluttershy tried to call again. "Yes way"! Scootaloo argued. "No way"! Sweetie Belle yelled back. "Should we—" Fluttersy tried again, but Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo kept on arguing. "Please settle down". Fluttershy begged. It seemed the fight was beginning to get out of hand, when all of a sudden. "Sweetie Belle! Scootaloo"! The two filles turned to Apple Bloom who was glaring at them. "There's no need to be arguing, we are ment to be guess here". She told them sternley. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo both looked down in shame. "Okay". They both mummbled. Apple Bloom smiled, and turned back to Fluttershy. "Thank you for doing this for us Ms. Fluttershy, I'm sorry if we're being a bit overwhelming". She apologized. Fluttershy smiled. "Oh, no problem at all Apple Bloom, and don't worry, like I said. I got this". Fluttershy replied. All of a sudden Scootaloo shouted. "Im staying up all night"! That got Sweetie Belle, and even Apple Bloom who was normaly the calm one collective one of the three exicted. "Me too"! Sweetie Belle exclaimed "Ooh! I wanna stay up all night too"! Apple Bloom exclaimed happily as she stood next to Fluttershy, who was trying to calm the girls down. "I-I know you're excited, but—" Fluttershy noticed that the Crusaders excitment were causing things to be knocked around. "Oh, oh, careful with the— oh, ah, girls—" Fluttershy, realizing she needed to speak louder took a deep breath. "So! What do you wanna do? Play a game?" She asked them. "We are the cutie mark crusaders"! Scootaloo stated. "And we want to crusade for our cutie marks!" Sweetie Belle replied. "And, and, and, we, um— yeah! What they said!" Apple Bloom repeated. "Mmm, I don't know... how about a nice quiet little tea party"? Fluttershy suggested. "Or... we could go adventuring in the Everfree Forest!" Scootaloo counterd. That got both Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom excited. "Yeah"! They both exclaimed. However Fluttershy was quick to turn them down. "Oh, no! The Everfree Forest is much too dangerous. It's filled with far too many strange creatures." She explained. Apple Bloom looked up at Fluttershy and sighed hevaily. "I guess you're right about that". She replied. "But you could go with us and we could catch those creatures. We could be, umm... creature catchers!" Sweetie Belle stated. "Yeah". Scootaloo replied. "Yay! Cutie Mark Crusader creature catchers!" The CMCs all cheered. Scootaloo then went over, and grabbed some blankets. She gave one to Apple Bloom, and the two of the pretened to be a scary monster from the Everfree Forest. "Arrrr! I am a dangerous creature from the Everfree Forest! Rrrarr!" Scootaloo roared. Sweetie Belle smiled and got into a fighting stance. "Halt, dangerous creature of the Everfree Forest. I am Sweetie Belle, the creature catcher, and I'm here to catch you!" She proclaimed. "You can never catch me! I am far too powerful and dangerous!" Scootaloo announced. "You cannot outrun me". Exclaimed Sweetie Belle. The three fillies started to chase each other around the cottage, laughing and giggling, while Fluttershy was trying to calm them down. "Um, oh, maybe that's not such a— now, girls, how about we do some nice coloring? Doh—". The girls however were having too much fun to hear Fluttershy. "Come back, dangerous creature, so I can catch you"! Sweetie Belle called after Scootaloo. "Never"! Scootaloo refused! All while Apple Bloom was just laughing and giggling. For once she actually felt like she was having fun. The three fillies continued to chase each other while Fluttershy tried to get them to slow down. "Careful... you don't..." Fluttershy tried to call out, but it was too late. The girls crashed into a table causing it to shatter. Apple Bloom gasped in horror when she saw the damage. "Sorry". She apologized. "Yeah sorry". Scootaloo also aplogized. "I guess we aren't creature catchers." Sweetie Belle muttered sadly Fluttershy gave the girls a soft smile. "Oh, girls, it's okay. I—" She began only to be interuppted by Apple Bloom. "I know! We could be Cutie Mark Crusader carpenters!" The little farm filly exclaimed "C-carpenters"? Fluttershy asked nervously as the crusaders began working on fixing the table they broke. "Hammer'! Apple Bloom demanded. "Hammer." Scootaloo said handing Apple Bloom a hammer. "Hammer". Sweetie Belle repeated. "Hammer. Hammer! ...Hammer." Scootaloo said three more times. The girls began to work on the table, however once they were done the results were less then pleasing. "Um ... that doesn't look like a table." Sweetie Belle said unimpressed. "We were building a table"? Scootaloo asked. "Yes"! Sweetie Belle replied in a somewhat annoyed matter. Apple Bloom just looked down, feeling extremley guilty that they had already broken something of Fluttershy's after only being in her cottage for not even five minutes. "Sorry". Apple Bloom said sadly. Fluttershy gave Apple Bloom a small smile. "Oh Apple Bloom don't worry about it". Fluttershy said reassuringly. Besides I have another game we could all play together". Fluttershy then suggested. This peaked the curiosty of the three fillies. "What's the game called"? asked Apple Bloom. "It's called "Shhh!" Fluttershy said. "What's that"? Questioned Scootaloo. "Well, it's a game about who can be quiet the longest. Sound fun? I'm the world champ, you know. I bet you can't beat me!" Fluttershy teased. She then stopped talking, and encourged the crusaders to join in. However the three of them found the game to be quite boring. "I lose"! Scootaloo shouted. "Me too"! exclaimed Sweetie Belle. Apple Bloom hesitated for a bit, but ulitmately decieded to go with Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "Sorry Fluttershy". she said. Fluttershy just sighed, and smiled. "Okay, now what can we do?" Apple Bloom asked. Scootaloo thought for a bit, and then an idea flew into her brain. "How about Cutie Mark Crusader coal miners?" She suggested. "Oooh yeah!" Sweetie Belle agreed. "Um, is that safe"? Apple Bloom asked. "No!" Fluttershy exclaimed. causing the three fillies to look back at her. "Awwww!" The CMC complained. Fluttershy sighed. "I mean, it's time for bed, don't you think? Aren't you excited to get all toasty and warm in your snuggly-wuggly widdle beds?" The fillies gave Fluttershy a strange look. "Um Fluttershy, You know we're the three of us are twelve years old right"? Asked Apple Bloom. Fluttershy blushed in embarrsasment, and let out a nervous chuckle. "Heh, sorry". Soon the crusaders were all tucked into the bed Fluttershy had set for them upstairs. As they were getting ready Apple Bloom pulled something out of her bag. "What's that"? Asked Scootaloo. "Oh this? This is wolfy, my stuffed wolf I had since I was a baby". Apple Bloom stated as she showed them the plush. "You still sleep with it"? Asked Scootaloo. Apple Bloom nodded. "Well, yeah, but's it's only in certain situations. Like this one, I mean we aren't in are own beds in our own homes". "I guess your right about that". Scootaloo admitted. Fluttershy couldn't help but smile. "Hey, how about I sing you three a lullaby so you can get tired". she suggested. "I guess that wouldn't hurt". Apple Bloom replied. Fluttershy smiled and cleared her throat. She then started singing a soft ballad. "Hush now, quiet now It's time to lay your sleepy head Hush now, quiet now It's time to go to bed" As Fluttershy sang, both Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom began to drift off. Sweetie Belle however perked up when she heard Fluttershy singing. "I know this one". The Little Unicorn filly stated excitedly. Fluttershy smiled. "Great why don't you sing with me". she suggested. Realizing that Sweetie Belle was going to sing Scootaloo covered her ears. This confused Apple Bloom, but Scootaloo beckoned for her to do the same. Unsure of what was about to happen Apple Bloom did what Scootaloo suggested. The little earth filly soon realized why Scootaloo had covered her ears, because instead of singing the soft ballad Fluttershy was singing Sweetie Belle instead started to sing a loud heavy metal rock verison of the song. "Hush now! Quiet now! It's time to lay your sleepy head! Said hush now! Quiet now! It's time to go to bed!" Fluttershy who was now also covering her ears tried to get Sweetie Belle to calm down. "Okay Sweetie, that was..." But her words fell on deaf ears as Sweetie Belle kept singing. "Driftin' (driftin') off to sleep! Exciting day behind you! Driftin' (driftin') off to sleep! Let the joy of dream land find you!" Thank you Belle, um... Fluttershy again tried to get Sweetie Belle to stop. "Hush now! Quiet now! Lay your sleepy head! Said hush now! Quiet now! It's time to go to bed!" Sweetie Belle finally stopped when she fell off the bed. "Ow"! She yelped. The noise had frighted Fluttershy's chickens, who were now all running around like their heads had been chopped off. "What's that"? asked Scootaloo. Fluttershy had just finshied placing everything back, and turned around only to see the Crusaders gone. "Girls"! She gasped, and ran to the window to see them watching the chickens. "Fluttershy, your chickens are on the loose"! Apple Bloom announced. "I wonder what caused that"? Asked Sweetie Belle, which caused Apple Bloom to glare at her. "Oh, heh heh. Right". Sweetie Belle chuckled nerously. Don't worry, we'll catch em"! Scootaloo stated. "Cutie Mark Crusader chicken herders! Yay!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed as the crusaders ran off the gather the chickens. "No, I don't think that's a— ah, come back! Please!" Fluttershy tried to protest, but the CMCs weren't listening, they were too busy giggling, and chasing the chickens, which only frightend the birds even more. Fluttershy quickly flew into the pen and attempted to defuse the situation. "Come on, girls, the chickens are fine— oh, girls, um..." Fluttershy tried to get their attention, but to no avail as one chicken landed on her head. "Girls"! Fluttershy exlcaimed. Finally loosing her patinces. The crusaders and chickens all stopped in their tracks. Fluttershy then procceded to move the chickens, back to their pen. "Come on, in you go." She ordered them. However the chickens didn't want to go in, so Fluttershy used the stare on them. That got the chickens to go inside. "There's some good chickens". Fluttershy giggled. She tehn turned to the CMCs, and walked up to them. Apple Bloom, feeling ashamed of the trouble she and the girls had caused looked up at Fluttershy. "I'm real sorry Fluttershy, I don't know what came over me. I guess I just got real exicted to earn my cutie mark. "We all did". Sweetie Belle said. "Yeah, sorry Fluttershy". Scootaloo apologized. Fluttershy smiled at the three. "It's okay girls. Now why don't you head back to bed". "But"! The crusaders began to protest. "Please"? Fluttershy sweetly asked. The children sighed and reluceantly went back to bed. Once again they were tucked in. "So, no more crusading for tonight, all right?" Fluttershy asked. "Yes Fluttershy". Replied Scootaloo. "We promise". Said Sweetie Belle. "Goodnight Fluttershy". Apple Bloom yawned. With that, Fluttershy left the bedroom. However once she was gone Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle both opened their eyes. Apple Bloom however was actually asleep, so Sweetie Belle had to shake her awake. "Apple Bloom, wake up". Sweetie Belle nudged. "Huh, what"? Apple Bloom asked groggaly. "Come on let's see what kind of crusading we can do next". Sweetie Belle said. Apple Bloom looked at her in confusion. "But Fluttershy said we need to go to bed". "Come on Apple Bloom, don't you remember how hard you've been working to get your cutie mark"? Scootaloo asked. Apple Bloom pondered Scootaloo's question. You'll always be a. BLANK FLANK!" She remembered Diamaond Tiara, and Silverspoon telling her. "I guess you got a point, but". Apple Bloom began, only for Scootaloo to interupt her. "Good! Now lets figure out what our next move should be". Apple Bloom got up, and walked over to the window. She peeared out, and stared at the chicken coup. "Somethings off, didn't Fluttershy shut the pen when before she came back inside with us". She ponderd. All of a sudden reality hit Apple Bloom like a ton of bricks. "Hey, girls! Look! Some of the chickens may have escaped"! Apple Bloom told Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo who came over to the window. "And they must have gone into the forest". Sweetie Belle said "I'll go tell Fluttershy, and then she can head back to Sweet Apple Acres to get help from Applejack, and Big Mac"! Apple Bloom suggested, as she rushed to head downstairs, only for Scootaloo to block her path. "No, don't you see Apple Bloom this is our chance". "What do you mean"? Apple Bloom asked. "If we can go rescue the chickens ourselves were bond to get our cutie marks". Scootaloo explained. "Cutie Mark Crusaders chicken rescuers yay"! Sweetie Belle cheered. Apple Bloom was pretty heisatant to go however. "I don't know, I". Apple Bloom stopped mid-sentence when she saw Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo already sneaking out the window. "Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo what are you doing". She asked. "Come on Apple Bloom, that chicken isn't going to find itself"! Scootaloo told her. "But Fluttershy said"! Apple Bloom began only to see Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo heading into the forest. "Oh why do I even bother". Apple Bloom said to herself as she climbed out the window, and followed after her friends. "Wait for me"! She called out to them. Meanwhile back in the cottage, Fluttershy was resting on the couch, feeling quite satisfied with herself. "It really wasn't that hard ... I mean, all I needed to do was just show them who's in charge. Nothing's gonna get past Fluttershy! Good with animals, good with kids." Some minutes passed, and Fluttershy had dozed off on the couch. "Mmm, peace and quiet." she murrmed to herself as she continued to sleep. That was until she realized something. "Too quiet." Fluttershy gasped. Without wasting a second, Fluttershy flew up to the room where she left the CMCs only find it empty. In a panic Fluttershy Flew out the window. "Girls?! Girls"?! She called. Fluttershy then walked over to her chicken coup. "Elizabeak! She's missing"! Fluttershy realized. "Girls"?! She called again. It was then she noticed both chicken footprints, and hoofprints heading into the direction of the forest. "Oh, no! They must have gone looking for my missing chicken! Which means... they must have gone into... The Everfree Forest". Fluttershy shuttered. Fluttershy felt a wave of emotions float through her body. Anger, Worry, Fear, and Regret. "Those girls have really done it this time! They've really bitten off more than they can chew! Oh, just like me! I never should have offered to watch them". She said to herself. She remebered her father, and mother telling her to be careful, and to not end up like her brother, but now she felt like that's what was happening. But Fluttershy soon forgot about the memories of the past and realized that she had to go after them, and so she ventured out into the forest. Meanwhile, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom were all in the forest searching for the lost chicken. Apple Bloom however was still saying that they should turn back. "Come on you two I really think we shouldn't be out hear". However, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were too busy arguing to listen to her, for Sweetie Belle had been trying to call for the chicken. "Here, chick-chick-chick-chick-chick! Brawck, bawk-bawk-bawk, brawck!" Sweetie Belle called. "What are you doing"? Asked Scootaloo. "Calling for the chicken". Sweetie Belle replied. "That's not how you call a chicken". Scootaloo stated. "Oh and I suppose you know how too"? Sweetie Belle asked. "I know that isn't the way". Scootaloo retorted. "Then show me"! Sweetie Belle demanded. "I don't have too"! Scootaloo retorted. "You're just chicken". Sweetie Belle replied. "Am Not!" Yelled Scootaloo. Then Sweetie Belle decieded to mock Scootaloo. "Oh, wait, now I know how to call a chicken! Scootaloo! Scoot-scootalooooo!" She started up. "That's so funny I forgot to laugh". Scootaloo said sarcasticly "You also forgot how to call a damn chicken"! Sweetie Belle mocked. "Why you". Scootaloo began, looking about ready to pounce on Sweetie Belle until Apple Bloom spoke up from behind. "Come on, guys, we're not gonna find the chicken or our cutie marks by arguin". Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo just looked at each other. "Maybe that's are special talent, aruging". Sweetie Belle suggested. "Is not"! Scootaloo stated. "Is too"! Sweetie Belle retorted. The two of them went back and force, as Apple Bloom just sighed. She decieded to take a quick scan of the area to see if she could spot the chicken, or anything in this forest. We really should keep an eye out, anything could be in this place waiting to pounce on us". She said in her head as she continued to Scan the trees. Then she spotted something. Apple Bloom squinted her eyes to make out what it was. "Hello"? She called out. After squinted harder her eyes manged to adjust to her surrondings, and she saw something that made her gasp. It was the pegagus filly she saw in her dream. Apple Bloom rubbed her eyes to make sure she wasn't seeing things, and when she looked again she saw the little girl was still there. However just as she was about to go over to ask who she was, the filly galloped off into the forest, and Apple Bloom knew better then to not chase after her. "Could that dream have meant more then I actually thought it did"? She thought to herself. "Hey Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo". Apple Bloom was about to ask her friends if they had seen the filly as well, but when she looked she noticed that they had already gone ahead and left her behind. "Oh goddamnit"! She said in anger, as she ran to catch up with them. Meanwhile Fluttershy was wondering through the forest trying to find the CMCs and get out of there as fast as possible. "Girls"? she called in a whisper. She got no answer, so she called again. "Girls"? Again no reply, but she heard a scary noise which caused her to yelp. "Oh! Get a hold of yourself, Fluttershy. Just put one hoof in front of the other." She muttered, but as she backed up she bumped into a tree, causing her to jump, then she heard a noise and screamed. She started to run away. As she ran she noticed someone ahead of her. Throught the darkness Fluttershy saw that who ever it was looked like Twilight. "Twilight? I-Is that you"? She asked. Once Fluttershy got close enough she saw that it was infact her friend. "Oh, Twilight, it is you. Thank goodness you're here. I need your help. The girls are out here somewhere, and I'm afraid that they're—" Fluttershy began to explain, however she soon realized something wasn't quite right, and when the moonlight shone Fluttershy gasped in horror. Twilight had been turned into stone. "Oh! What's happened to you"? She asked in fear. Then she saw Bertholdt. He had suffered the same fate as Twilight. "Oh no! If you two have been turned to stone, then that means". Fluttershy couldn't bring herself to finish that sentence, the realization hitting her that a horrible creature was lurking in the forest. She turned to Twilight, and Bertholdt's stoned bodies. "Don't move you two, I'll be right back". She assured them, and ran off. "Girls! Girls!". She called but got no answer. "Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo"! She called out again, but still no answer. "Reiner!" She hadn't seen him stoned so she hoped he had escaped, but again she got no reply. Elsewhere, Apple Bloom was trying to catch up to Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo, all the while muttering to herself. "Let's going into the forest and catch that chicken they said. It'll be fine they said". Apple Bloom grumbled. "You know the chicken would have been found by now if we just told Fluttershy, and then asked Applejack, and Big Mac for help"! she shouted into the forest, but got no reply in response. "Of course, now I'm talking to myself". she grumbled bitterly. Just then she heard russleting in the bushes. Something was coming. Squinting her eyes, Apple Bloom looked through the bushes trying to get a look at whatever was coming. She even picked up a stick for saftey meassures. She moved closer to the bush, and brought the branch over her head, and when the creature came out of the bushes Apple Bloom whacked it hard on the head. When she did she heard a voice yell out "OW WHAT THE HELL"! Apple Bloom looked, and saw Reiner Braun on the ground rubbing the back of his head. "Reiner? What are you doing here"? Apple Bloom asked as Reiner got up. "What am I doing here? I should be asking you that"! Reiner exclaimed "Why are you out here, and not with Fluttershy"? He demanded to know. "Well, you see". Apple Bloom began. She then began to explain the whole story. "And when I looked up Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were gone". Apple Bloom finshed. "So instead of listening to you, they wanted to find the chicken on their own"? Reiner asked. Apple Bloom nodded, but then she noticed something. "Hey, where are Twilight and Mr. Hoover". She asked. Reiner suddendly got a cold sweat running down his back. "Reiner? Are you okay"? Apple Bloom asked. "We ran into something, and well it". "Apple Bloom, Reiner"! Before Reiner could finish Fluttershy ran up to them. "Fluttershy, when did you get here"? Asked Reiner. Fluttershy panted and looked up at him. "No time we have to get out of here a cockatrice is on the loose"! Fluttershy exclaimed "A what"? asked Apple Bloom in confusion. "A cockatrice! It's a frightening creature with the head of a chicken and the body of a snake". Fluttershy exclaimed. "Is that what that creature was". Reiner wondered just as Apple Bloom spoke up. "That sounds kinda cool actually, I'd like to see one". She exclaimed. "No you don't, if you look at a cockatrice it will tun you into stone"! Fluttershy yelled. Hearing that made Apple Bloom gasped! "What"?! She yelped in shock. Fluttershy nodded. "I saw that it already did it to Bertholdt, and Twilight". Fluttershy said sadly. She then looked up at Reiner. "But how did you escape Mr. Braun"? she asked. "Well". Reiner began as he remebered back to what happened. Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt were walking through the Everfree Forest Twilight exciitedly telling the other two about the tea Zecora was going to give her. "It's the most amazing tasting tea in all of Equestria, I'm serious you guys have got to try". "I don't know, I'm more of a coffee kind of guy". Reiner stated making Twilight scoff. "All coffee does is make you hyperactive, and it's not good for your heart". Twilight said. "Oh really"! Reiner asked getting in Twilight's face. "Yes really"! Twilight stated doing the same. The two of them glared at each other for a few moments, and started laughing. "Im sorry Reiner I hope I didn't sound too rude". Twilight stated. "No, not at all, and I'm sorry as well". Reiner replied. The three of them then continued on. As they were walking all of a sudden, Bertholdt heard something. "Hey, do you two hear that"? he asked. "Here what Bertholdt"? Twilight asked. "Listen". Bertholdt stated. The three of them listened and heard the sound of russleting in a nearby bush. "It's probably just a squirell or another forest creature. Reiner stated as he continued moving on. However, just as Twilight, and Bertholdt were about to catch up they saw what looked like a chicken peek from the bush. "Hey, what's a chicken doing out here"? Bertholdt asked. "I'm not sure". Twilight replied. She, and Bertholdt both began to walk towards it with Twilight speaking sofly to the chicken. "Hey, it's okay we won't hurt you". Twilight stated reassuringly. She, and Bertholdt both moved closer, but that was when the "Chicken reaveled it's truself. Twilight gasped in horror, reconginzing the creature as a cockatrice. "Bertholdt don't stare at it"! Twilight shouted, but it was too late and the cockatrice turned both her, and Bertholdt into stone, with Reiner witnessing the whole thing. Knowing that he'd most likely suffer the same fate if he tried to confront the thing he quicky ran off in the opposite direction". "And that's what happend". Reiner finshised his story. Fluttershy looked at him in shock, Apple Bloom's eyes were filled with horror. "Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo our out there with that thing on the loose"! Apple Bloom screamed. "Oh my, we have to find them quickly"! Fluttershy exclaimed. "I'll go with you, it will be better if all of us are together". Reiner stated. "Oh, thank you Reiner". Fluttershy said. Then all three of them went off in search of the other two crusaders. Elsewhere Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were both still arguing about arguing being their special talent. "Is not"! Argured Scootaloo. "Is too"! Argued Sweetie Belle. "Is not"! Argured Scootaloo. "Is too"! Argued Sweetie Belle. Finally Sweetie Belle had enough of the arguing and decieded to get a thrid opinion. "What do you think Apple Bloom? Is arguing our special talent"? She asked. However when Sweetie Belle got no response she became confused. "Apple Bloom"? She asked turning around only to see that the little farm filly wasn't behind them. "Hey Scootaloo"? Sweetie Belle asked. "What"?! Scootaloo asked in a rude tone, still a little mad at Sweetie Belle. "Do you know where Apple Bloom is"? Sweetie Belle asked. "What are you talking about she's right, oh". Scootaloo muttered realizing that Apple Bloom was gone. "I guess we were so busy searching for the chicken that we didn't notice that she got separated from us". Scootaloo stated. "Do you think something happened to her"? Asked Sweetie Belle. "God I sure hope not". Scootaloo stated. The two of them wonderd what to do next when they heard Fluttershy call out. "Girls"! she cried rushing over to them along with Reiner, and Apple Bloom. Seeing their fellow crusader the other too sighed in relief. "See I told you she was fine". Scootaloo said to Sweetie Belle. Thank goodness you're okay Fluttershy said as she, Apple Bloom, and Reiner walked up to them. "We have to leave the forest at once"! "But we haven't found the chicken yet"! Exclaimed Sweetie Belle. "There's no time, there's a cockatrice on the loose"! Apple Bloom stated. "A cocka what now"? Asked Scootaloo. "A cockatrice! It's a frightening creature with the head of a chicken and the body of a snake. Now, come on"! Reiner ordered as he Fluttershy, and Apple Bloom all turned to leave. However instead of following them out of the forest Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo just started laughing. "The head of a chicken and the body of a snake? That doesn't sound scary, that sounds silly"! Scootaloo scoffed. "Why, if I ever saw one of them cockathingies face-to-face, I'd laugh at how silly it was." Sweetie Belle replied "No! Never look one in the eye"! Fluttershy yelled, but Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo ignored her, and kept walking further in the forest. "Girls please come back"! Apple Bloom begged her friends. "Don't worry, as soon as we find the chicken we can all go back home". Sweetie Belle said trying to reassure everyone. Just then they all heard movement comming from the bushes. Everyone stared intently waiting for something to come out. After a few seconds the missing chicken came out of the bushes. "Look there's the chicken"! Sweetie Belle exclaimed. Then the head of another chicken peered out from the bush. "Two"? Sweetie Belle asked in confusion. "Let's grab em both". Scootaloo said. They were just about to move towards them when the second chicken fully emerged from the bush reaveling itself not to be a chicken, but some creature with the head of a chicken, and the body of the snake. The creature then stared right at Elizabeak turning the frighted chicken to stone. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo both looked on in horror, Apple Bloom gasped. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo both backed up, and then tripped on something. It was the stone bodies of Twilight Sparkle, and Bertholdt Hoover. Seeing this horrified the two filles. They were just about to scream when Reiner appeared infront of them. "Stay behind me". He order them. The cockatrice began to walk towards the three of them, Reiner, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all had their eyes closed. "If I have to transform into the Armored Titan to protect them, then so be it". Reiner thought to himself. The cockatrice moved in closer, but then it stopped. It turned and spotted Apple Bloom who was standing alone. Seeing the thing heading her way, Appe Bloom fell to the ground, and began to back away fearfully. The cockatrice got closer, and closer preparing the petrfiy the girl, when all of a sudden Fluttershy stepped in between it and Apple Bloom. At first Fluttershy had no idea what to do, all she knew was that she had to protect Apple Bloom somehow. Finally Fluttershy worked up the courage, and yelled at the cockatrice. "You! Just who do you think you are, going around turning others into stone?" She demanded. The cockatrice was shocked, and began to try and turn Fluttershy to stone, but the pegagus kept going. "You should be ashamed of yourself. I have a mind to find your mother and tell her what you've been up to, young man. Now you go over there, and turn Elizabeak and my friends Twilight, and Bertholdt back to normal, and don't ever let me catch you doing this again. Do you understand me"? Fluttershy asked. The cockatrice tried for a few more seconds to petrfie Fluttershy, but ultimantely relented and went off to two what Fluttershy asked of it. "You did it"! Apple Bloom exclaimed. "That was so cool"! Scootaloo followed. "Yeah"! Sweetie Belle agreed. Reiner smiled. "That was pretty impressive Fluttershy". He complented. "Oh thank you Reiner". Fluttershy blushed. "Hooray for Fluttershy! The Stare Master"! The CMCs all cheered. Fluttershy smiled. "Oh girls, I'm just glad you're okay". She said. "Yeah, thanks to you". Sweetie Belle stated. She then looked down. "We're sorry we snuck out of the house and into the forest". she apologized. "Yeah, I feel terrible putting you through that stress". Apple Bloom apologized as well. "From now on we promise to listen to what you say". Scootaloo replied. "Oh, you do, do you? Well, you better, or I'll give you... the Stare!" Fluttershy said jokingly as she, Reiner, and the crusaders all laughed just as Twilight, and Bertholdt who had been unstoned walked over to them "Ugh, what happened"? Asked Twilight. "Yeah, what's going on"? Asked Bertholdt. The next morning Fluttershy finshed telling Twilight, and Bertholdt what happend, Twilight was writing down what Fluttershy was saying planning to send it to Princess Celestia. "And that's when it brought you back from stone". Fluttershy said. "This is gonna make quite a letter to the princess." Twilight replied. Reiner then looked up at Fluttershy. "I was wrong about you. You certainly do know how to handle those girls." He said. Fluttershy smiled. "Oh I wouldn't go that far". She said. "Hmmm? What do you mean?" Asked Bertholdt in confusion. "I assumed that I'd be just as good with kids as I am with animals. Boy, was I wrong. I really learned the hard way not to bite off more than I could chew." Fluttershy stated. Twilight chuckled. "You and Rarity both". She said as Rarity walked over to them". "Good morning Rarity" Twilight greeted. "Did you finish all those capes"? Fluttershy asked. "Just delivered them. I have to admit, if you hadn't come along, I might not have. Thanks again." Rarity replied. "Would you like to stay for some tea"? Asked Fluttershy. "I really must get back to the shop and clean up". Rarity politely declined. She then turned to the crusaders. "Girls! Get your things. Time to go. Girls!" But they ignroed her and kept playing. "Girls! Time to— Girls! Your things! Girls! It's time to— Girls!" Rarity shouted getting increasingly more frustrated. "Allow me". Fluttershy said. She cleared her throat. "Girls". she gentely called. The cmcs all stopped at Fluttershy's voice, and came over to her. "Yes Fluttershy"? Asked Apple Bloom "You called"? Asked Scootaloo. "Go back your things, Rarity is here to take you home". Fluttershy told them "Of course right away". Sweetie Belle said, as she, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo all went inside to pack while Rarity looked on in shock. "Ah, huh, ah, how did you... how did you do that"? She asked. "I guess I'm just as good with kids as I am with animals." Fluttershy replied as the girls came out. "Thank you, Fluttershy! Bye! Thank you, Stare Master!" They all said. Rarity smiled, and then chuckled nervously at Fluttershy. "Ah, uh, speaking of which, I could use your help with Opal". Rarity stated. "Of course how about later today". Fluttershy offered. "How about now"? Rarity asked turning around to show that Opal was now biting her tail. Fluttershy, Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt all bursted out laughing. Preview Ponyville Junior High is about to hold it's annaul showcase and the CMCs hope that performing a song in it will help them get their cutie marks, but they might be going about it the wrong way. Next Episode. The Show Stoppers. Author's Note Characters in Order of Apperance Sweetie Belle Rarity Fluttershy Opalescence Scootaloo Apple Bloom Reiner Braun Twilight Sparkle Bertholdt Hoover Diamond Tiara (Flashback) Silverspoon (Flashback) Mrs. Shy (Flashback) Mr. Shy (Flashback) Zephyr Breeze (Flashback) Cozy Glow
Episode 25: The Show Stoppers: Gala arc Part 18Applejack was leading the Cutie Mark Crusaders to an unknown locatation. She had a special suprise for them. "Where are you taking us"? Asked Apple Bloom "We're almost there young'uns" Applejack replied chuckuling. Sweetie Belle looked around, amazed by the surronding area. "I've never been here before". She said looking around. Scootaloo too was admiring the area, so she didn't notice that Apple Bloom had stopped, and bumped into her. "Ouch"! Scootaloo yelped in suprise. "Oops, sorry". Apple Bloom apologized. "Are we there yet"? Scootaloo complained. "There? Where? What? I don't even know what we're doing." Sweetie Belle said. Applejack then finally spoke up. "Here we are". She announced. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all looked up to find themselves staring at a rigity old looking treehouse. "Um. What are you looking at"? Asked Apple Bloom. Applejack turned and smiled at the three fillies. "Cutie Mark Crusaders, welcome to your new clubhouse. [silence] Well, don't thank me all at once. This was my clubhouse when I was your age. Sure it hasn't been used in a while, but it's empty and on a secluded, private part of the farm. And it's all yours. It just needs a little, uh... TLC". Applejack explained "TLC as in Tender Loving Care or Totally Lost Cause"? Scootaloo asked in a mocking tone, garnering Apple Bloom to slap her in the back of the head. "Ow"! She yelped, and faced Apple Bloom, but quickly backed off when she saw the glare the little farm filly was giving her. Apple Bloom's amber eyes then softened, and she turned to Applejack. "Um, Applejack"? Apple Bloom began "Yeah"? Applejack asked. "We really do appriecate this and all, but how are we suppose to turn this into our new clubhouse"? Apple Bloom asked. "Well, maybe y'all will get your cutie marks when you discover your talent for... Waaah!" Applejack started to say, but do to the fact that the treehouse was old before she could finish her sentence Applejack fell through the wooden wall. "House Cleaning". Applejack finished in a daze as the CMCs giggled. A couple of days had passed since the CMCs were giving their new Clubhouse. Scootaloo was racing through ponyville on her way to see how the fix up was going. Apple Bloom had said that she would work on it, and make it look brand new. As Scootaloo rode through the village she did several stunts, and tricks on her scooter amazing the ponies she passed by. Finally she arrived at the treehouse, and to her shock and amazment it was already looking better then the last time any of them had seen it. Apple Bloom, who had been working on the Clubhouse like she said she would looked up, and greeted Scootaloo. "Whoa! Hi, Scootaloo! Back already? You're amazin' on that scooter". She complemeted. Scootaloo smiled, and in turn admired the work Apple Bloom had put into fixing the treehouse. "Thanks! Wow, Apple Bloom. You did all of this?" Scootaloo said in amazment. "Yep! I've fixed the broken shutters, sanded off the splinters, rebuilt the roof, painted..." Apple Bloom replied. Just then Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover showed up. "Hey you two". Reiner greeted. "Hi Mr. Braun, and Mr. Hoover". Apple Bloom greeted. "Applejack told us you got a new clubhouse". Bertholdt stated. "Yep, it was all old and falling apart at first, but thanks to Apple Bloom here it's looking all brand new". Scootaloo said, all while making Apple Bloom blush. "How did you get so handy with tools in the first place"? Reiner asked. "Yeah, I would really like to know as well". Scootaloo said in curiosty. "Oh, daddy was always fixing stuff when I was younger, and I would just watch him, sometimes I'd mimick the movements he made, and well eventually he thought me". Apple Bloom explained. "That's so cool". Scootaloo said, but then she noticed something. "Hey, where's Sweetie Belle"? she asked. Sweetie Belle, was over in another area dusting off a piano while singing a little melody. We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders... ...Never stop the journey... Sweetie Belle kept humming until she heard Apple Bloom's voice call out to her. "There you are Belle". Apple Bloom said. She then turned to Scootaloo, Reiner, and Bertholdt. "See I told you if we just followed the singing we'd find her". Apple Bloom stated. "You were right". Scootaloo said. The four ponies then went up to Sweetie Belle. "What are you working on"? Reiner asked. "Oh. I was just working on our new Cutie Mark Crusaders theme song." Sweetie Belle explained. "Cool"! Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo said excitedly. "Teach us"? Asked Scootaloo. "Yeah, please"? Asked Apple Bloom. Sweetie Belle thought for a moment. "Well, I've only come up with one part... but okay!" She agreed. "Yay"! Apple Bloom cheered. She then turned to Bertholdt, and Reiner. "You guys wanna come see the inside of the club house"? She asked. "Sure why not". Reiner replied. Inside the clubhouse Sweeite Belle, was teaching Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo the lyrics to the song, while Reiner and Bertholdt listened. Unaware to any of them Applejack also came by to see what they were doing. Sweetie Belle sang first. They all say that you will get your mark When the time is really right. Her voice was amazing in Reiner, Bertholdt, and Applejack's minds. Then it was Apple Bloom. And you know just what you're supposed to do. Now Apple Bloom never payed any attention to her singing voice, but unknown to her the entire town thought she had the voice of an angel. To Reiner, Apple Bloom's voice is how he believed Christa's voice would sound if she sang. Next was Scootaloo, who basicily just shouted the words instead of singing, making Applejack, Reiner, and Bertholdt cringe. "And your talent comes to light!" "Um, that was something". Bertholdt stated. "Yeah, I'll say". Reiner agreed. Applejack then spoke up. "I'll be, Cutie Mark Crusaders. You've done one fine job with this place. So, what's next?" "Well". Apple Bloom began. "Now that we have our own clubhouse". "And a Map of Ponyville" Scootaloo replied. "...and a Cutie Mark Crusaders theme song..." Finshied Sweetie Belle. "That was your theme song"? Applejack asked, though her question was ignored as the Crusaders all began to talk about their plans. "We're gonna go out in the world and discover our talents." Said Apple Bloom "A new Adventure". Scootaloo replied. "To earn our Cutie Marks"! Stated Sweetie Belle. "We'll leave no stone unturned!" Apple Bloom continued. "No Mountain unclimbed". Scootaloo stated. "No meal Uncooked". Sweetie Belle finished. "Well okay then! Sounds like you have a plan. I gotta, uh... leave no apple unpicked! See y'all later!" Applejack said as she turned to leave. As Applejack left, Scootaloo turned to Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle. "Are we ready to get our cutie marks, ponies?" She asked. "Ready!" Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom cheered. Apple Bloom then turned to Reiner, and Bertholdt. "Come with us"? She asked. Reiner, and Bertholdt thought for a moment before nodding their heads. "Alright". Said Reiner. Soon, The CMCs went off and tried to earn their cutie marks, with Reiner, and Bertholdt supervising them. (The Reluctant Heroes Plays) The CMCs first attempt at getting their cutie marks, was being pig feeders. They started by gathering the food for the animals. Scootaloo poured the food into the trough, Sweetie Belle rang the bell to let the pigs know their lunch was ready, and Apple Bloom opened the pen. Now Apple Bloom, actually having experince with feeding the pigs quickly step to the side, and watched as the pigs ran out. As she watched them go, she heard a small crashing sound. Apple Bloom looked over to see that Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo had been knocked over by the pigs, and were covered in mud. Apple Bloom looked over at them, and giggled, making Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo giggle aswell. They then looked at their flanks. Which were still blank. The second attempt brought the CMCs, along with Reiner, and Bertholdt to sugarcube corner. Gathered around a large mixing bowl that was used for taffy making. They dumped package, after package of baking ingredients into it. However, they didn't remove the packaging paper when the crusaders turned the mixer on. Things seemed to be going well at first, but then Scootaloo got her tail caught on the large beater when it came back around. Fourtently Reiner, and Bertholdt manged to pull her out before she got sucked into the mixer. Once the taffy was done mixing the crusaders checked there flanks. Still Blank. The next thing they tried to do was set up their own beauty parlor in the main area of the Carousel Boutique. Apple Bloom rang a bell to attracth customers along with Reiner and Bertholdt. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were busy helping their first customer relax as they tried to make their own mane dying mixture. After they were down Apple Bloom heard crying. Confused, she Reiner, and Bertholdt looked to see the pony running out of the Boutique with a rainbow afro. Apple Bloom looked on sadly, feeling bad for the pony. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo then came out, but it seemed like all they cared about was their flanks, which were still blank. Seeing this prompted Apple Bloom to grab the clip board, and whack both of them with it. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo looked at her in confusion as Apple Bloom glared at them. She then pointed at the crying pony. Understanding what Apple Bloom was getting at, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo went over with Apple Bloom to the pony, and all three of them apologized. The pony smiled, and assured them that she forgave them. After that fiasco, the filles traveled somewhere outside of town. With help from Bertholdt, and Reiner, they set up a special two sided stand. On one side was a bunch of buttons with shapes on them. Apple Bloom was on the side with the shapes, her goal was to match the shape with whatever card Sweetie Belle had chosen. However she failed each time, and they still didn't have their cutie marks. Next was mountain climbing, but that too failed. Finally, they tried snorkling, but once again they didn't get their cutie marks. The three filles came out of the water feeling depressed. "Hey, don't be so hard on yourselves, just keep on trying, I'm sure you'll get your marks eventually". Reiner said trying to reassure them. "Yeah, just keep on moving forward". Bertholdt replied. Hearing those words made the fillies perk up. "Yeah, you guys are right, all we have to do is keep trying". Apple Bloom said. "No matter how hard it gets". Chimed in Scootaloo. "Until we get our cutie marks". Sweetie Belle declared. "That's the sprit, and since you girls are working so hard we wanted to give you theses". Reiner said as he pulled out three red headbands with stars on them. "What are these"? Apple Bloom asked. "A little something with asked Rarity to make for you when you first came together." Bertholdt replied. "You three are now honorary warriors"! Reiner stated with a smile on his face. The three filles took the headbands, and smiled at the two stalions. "Thanks you guys". Apple Bloom smiled "So, what are you three going to do know"? Asked Bertholdt. "I think were going to head to the golden oak library to see if we can get our cutie marks in being librarians". Scootaloo stated. "Alright, that sounds easy, we're going to head back home alright"? Reiner asked. Apple Bloom nodded. "Yeah, thanks for all your help you two". "No problem". Said Reiner as he and Bertholdt went home. After the two stalions left, the three fillies went off to the golden oak library Currently Publicly Avalablie Information Warrior Cadets. A unit of child soldiers consisting of Eldian "devils." Under command of the Marley army, they undergo harsh training and are selected based on their grades, skills, behavior, personality, and devotion to Marley. As only "devils" can inherit the Nine Titans, the existence of Eldians is crucial for the defense of Marley. As such, Eldians selected to become Warriors are granted "Honorary Marleyan" status along with their immediate family. Later that day, Twilight Sparkle, who had been helping out Samantha Cheerlie with something, arrived back to the library with the teacher. Once they arrived, they saw Spike standing in the middle of the room. As soon as he saw Twilight he quickly spoke up. "I had nothing to do with this"! He exclaimed. "What is going on here"? asked Twilight as the CMCs rose from the pile of books on the floor. "Hmm... well, we sure aren't gettin' our cutie marks for bein' librarians." Apple Bloom stated. "Huh, I should think not". Spike grumbled causing Twilight to glare at him. "What"? He asked. Twilight just sighed, and walked up to the girls. "Girls, I think you're going about this the wrong way. Instead of trying to do things in areas you're not familiar with, why not try doing things in areas that you already like"? She suggested. Cheerlie then walked up. "And I have the perfect place to start." She said handing the CMCs a flyer. Apple Bloom inspected it carefully. "Showcase your talents". she began. "For all to see". Scootaloo continued. "Perform in the Ponyville school talent show!" Sweetie Belle finished. "There'll be all sorts of awards. Best dramatic performance, best comedy act, best magic act... surely you can find your talent." Cheerlie stated. "This is perfect, Oh thank you Miss. Cheerlie". Apple Bloom beamed. "Yeah, we can do so many things, like acting". Scootaloo said. "Acting"? Sweetie Belle question. No way we should do magic tricks. "Why magic tricks"? Asked Scootaloo. "Uh, because why not"? Sweetie Belle replied. "Well why should we do something that none of us are good at"? Scootaloo questioned. "Because". Sweetie Belle began, only for Apple Bloom to intterupt her. "Girls! please no fighting"! She exclaimed. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo both stopped and stared at each other. "Sorry". Scootaloo apologized. "Me too" Sweetie Belle said. Apple Bloom smiled, as she and the girls looked back at Twilight. "My little ponies! You're missing the point. Think about the things you already enjoy doing. Think about what you're already good at." She stated. "Yeah, we can do that". Scootaloo said winking at Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle. Apple Bloom didn't understand why Scootaloo had winked, but Sweetie Belle knew exactly what the pegagus filly meant. "Yeah! Sure we can." Sweetie Belle replied. Apple Bloom didn't know what they meant, but it didn't matter to her. "Well whatever we do, we'll do it together"! She stated. "YAY"! They all cheered, and left the library. Later that day the cutie mark crusaders rode out of the Carousel Boutique in a wagon that was filled with a bunch of stuff. Rarity came out of the store and angrily called out to the girls. "Sweetie Belle! I told you not to touch my things. Come back with my supplies!" "We're just borrowing them for the talent show. Don't worry, sis. I promise we'll bring them back"! Sweetie Belle called back. "You couldn't have just asked her to borrow the supplies"? Apple Bloom asked curiously. "Have you met my sister? You know she would have said no". Sweetie Belle replied. "Oh, right, still I don't feel right about just taking things without permission". Apple Bloom responeded. "Must you be so negetive"? Scootaloo asked. "No, I just". Apple Bloom began". "Look, don't worry we'll ask for permission to borrow the other stuff we need". Scootaloo assured Apple Bloom. The crusaders then went to another store, and borrowed a fan from the owner. It was Sweetie Belle's idea. "Thanks, Mr. Breezy. We'll return the fan to you real soon". Scootaloo said. "Belle, what do we need the fan for"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Trust me on this one". Sweetie Belle replied. Soon the girls had even more stuff, as they stood outside another store. "Okay, so that's six wooden planks, four-by-eight plywood, a box of nails, four cans of paint, and four brushes Scootaloo stated". "Anything else?" She asked. "Yeah. Instructions on how to use six wooden planks, four-by-eight plywood, a box of nails, four cans of paint, and four brushes." Sweetie Belle replied. Apple Bloom just shrugged. The CMCs then went back to the golden oak libary to borrow a book from Twilight. ""Ghosts, Goblins and Ghoulish Figures"? Good heavens, girls. What do you need a book like this for?" Twilight asked "You'll see. Thanks, Twilight. We'll give it back as soon as we're done with it." As she and the other crusaders left. "What do you think they're up to"? Twilight asked Spike. "I have no idea and I don't know if I should be excited or scared to find out". Spike Replied. Back at the clubhouse, the crusaders were setting things up for their performance. "I'm glad we're doin' this as a team." Apple Bloom stated. "Me too". Sweetie Belle exclaimed. "Um... so what are we doing again?" She then asked. "A super awesome dramatic song for the talent show, of course." Scootaloo replied. Sweetie Belle nodded. "Right! With super-cool scenery. And amazing costumes!" She replied. "And mind-blowin' dance moves." Apple Bloom stated as she did a small dance move. "This is gonna be soo amazing!" Scootaloo said. Apple Bloom nodded in agreement, and then turned to Sweetie Belle. "Sweetie Belle, I think you should be a singer." Apple Bloom stated. "What? No way I'm singing in front of a crowd. Twilight said to do something we like to do, and I'd like to be like my big sister, and she's a designer." Sweetie Belle explained. "Fine then. You can do the costumes and the scenery." Scootaloo replied. Apple Bloom then turned to Scootaloo. "Well then Scootaloo, you're great in maneuvers on your scooter. So you should do the choreography. Y'know, all those dance moves". Apple Bloom said. "Nah. I'd rather sing a wicked rock ballad. Why don't you come up with the dance routine, Apple Bloom?" Scootaloo replied. "WHAT"! Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Yeah come on Apple Bloom it will be great, like I said Twilight said to do something we like". Sweetie Belle stated. "I'm pretty sure she meant things were already good at". Apple Bloom stated, but her words fell on deaf ears. "Come on Apple Bloom this will be perfect". Scootaloo insisted. "I don't know girls, I mean Sweetie Belle you have an amazing voice". Apple Bloom pointed out. "So do you". Sweetie Belle muttered under her breath. "What was that"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Oh nothing. Just come on Apple Bloom, let's just do this, and stop worrying". Sweetie Belle insisted. Apple Bloom sighed. "Alright". she muttered. Later, each of the girls were pratcting with what they were going to do for their performance. Apple Bloom was trying to get the hang of dancing, but she was having trouble. "One... two... three... oh! Oh!" She tripped and fell next to Scootaloo. "Um Apple Bloom, what are you doing?" Scootaloo asked. "Oh, I feel like I have four left feet. I can't even spin right." Apple Bloom replied. She then looked at Scootaloo and asked "Are you sure I should be the dancer"? Scootaloo smiled at the earth pony filly. "Don't be silly. You just gotta keep your head forward until the very last minute, like this". Scootaloo then did a very impressive thrill which amazed Apple Bloom. "See? Easy-peasy. You just gotta practice a bunch, that's all". Scootaloo replied. "And that's why you should be the dancer". Apple Bloom said under her breath. "What was that"? Asked Scootaloo. "Oh, nothin! Thanks for giving me some pointers, I'm going to get practicing". Apple Bloom replied as she began to try and dance some more. Only to fall again. " Oh! Ouch! Ow. I'm okay!" "Keep pratcing". Scootaloo told her. "Will do". Apple Bloom sighed. Scootaloo then went back to trying to write the lyrics for the song they we're going to peform at the showcase, however like Apple Bloom with the dancing, Scootaloo was having trouble with writing the lyrics. "We fight the fight, walk the walk. Talk the talk, eat the... uh... food like a celery stalk? Ugh! I'll never come up with anything! Never, never, never!" Scootaloo groaned as she banged her head on the piano in frustration. Just then, a piece of fabric came rolling by, Sweetie Belle was chasing after it. "Come back! Come back! Uh. Dumb fabric." The unicorn filly groaned. She then turned to Scootaloo. "Hey, Scoot! How's the song going"? Sweetie Belle asked. Scootaloo blew a raseberry in response. "Oh my. Sounds serious". Sweetie Belle stated. Scootaloo just sighed in response. "I'm just no good at lyrics. Coming up with words is, like... Really hard". Scootaloo groaned. "Oh they can't be that bad". Sweetie Belle reaasured as she walked up to check what Scootaloo had wrote. But as soon Sweetie Belle started reading, she could defentily see what Scootaloo meant. "Oh, it can't be that bad. "With our cutie marks we'll rock Equestria. We use our stomachs to... digestia"? Sweetie Belle looked at Scootaloo who smiled back sheepishly. "Umm... well... these are... um... good, but... how about after "we fight the fight"... Sweetie Belle then began to sing. There is nothing that we fear We'll have to figure out what we'll do next 'Til our cutie marks are here. "Wow! That's so awesome! Did you just come up with that now?" Scootaloo asked. "Yeah... kind of." Sweetie Belle replied. "That's why you should be the singer Sweetie Belle". Apple Bloom muttered to herself. "Huh, you say something Apple Bloom"? Sweetie Belle asked. "No, nothing". Apple Bloom replied with a smile. "Um, anyways, thanks Belle, I'm defenitly going to use those lyrics". Scootaloo said. Just then, the fabric that Sweetie Belle had been chasing rolled into the pond. "Oh no"! She exclaimed as she rushed to get it out. Later Sweetie Belle hung the fabric up to dry, and started working on one of the coustumes she wanted to make, however like the other two she found what she was doing to be pretty difficult. "One, two, three, four, five"? Sweetie Belle groaned realizing her mistake. Just then, Apple Bloom came by still trying to pratctince dancing, only to fall again. "Ouch"! Apple Bloom grunted. "How's the spin coming along?" Sweetie Belle asked. "I think I gotta just stick to punches and kicks." Apple Bloom stated. She then looked at the costume Sweetie Belle made. "You know, ponies only have four legs." Apple Bloom pointed out. Sweetie Belle sighed. "I'll never be a designer like my sister Rarity." "Hey, it's no big deal. Why don't you use the dress form? It'll help you with your patterns and help you put all the pieces in the right places." Apple Bloom said pointing to the manican that Sweetie Belle had set up. "Oh, that's what's that's for". Sweetie Belle asked. "Uh... maybe you should also clean your paintbrush between each color." Apple Bloom stated looking at some of the carboard drawings Sweetie Belle had drew. "Oh, I was wondering why all the colors looked like mud." "You're not using power tools are you"? Apple Bloom asked. Just then, Applejack walked up to the two of them. She was carrying a basket "Hey girls". She greeted. "Hey Applejack". Apple Bloom greeted back. "What's that"? she asked gesturing to the basked that Applejack was carrying. "Oh, it's actually why I'm here. Listen I know you're practincing for the talent show, but I was suppose to deliever these Apple Fritters to the Mayor's office, and I completly forgot about it, and now I have so much more work to do, Big Mac is also really busy, and Granny Smith, well you know. So I was wondering if". Apple Bloom stopped Applejack before she could finsish. "Of course Oneechan. I can deliver it for you". Apple Bloom replied with a smile. "Oh, thank you so much Apple Bloom". Applejack replied as she handed Apple Bloom the basket. "I'll be right back Sweetie Belle, tell Scootaloo where I went". Apple Bloom told the unicorn filly. "Yes Ma'am!" Sweetie Belle stated. "Thank you"! Apple Bloom replied giving Sweetie Belle a huge smile. "Hnnngh..... So..... Cute". Sweetie Belle strained. Apple Bloom arrived at the Mayor's office 15 minutes later. The whole time, she had been thinking about the talent show. To say she was nervous about their performance would been an understantment, but she tried to not worry about any of that, after all things might not be that bad. When Apple Bloom walked up to the front desk, the mare sitting there greeted her. "Hello, what can I do for you"? The mare asked. "Hello, I'm here to see the Mayor". Apple Bloom replied. "Of course. Mayor Mare you have a visitor". The mare said into a microphone. She then turned to Apple Bloom. "Please have a seat, and the Mayor will be right with you. Apple Bloom smiled. "Thank you". She said as she sat down. As she waited Apple Bloom again began to think of the show, she wondered if She, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo had really chosen the right things to do. She started to sweat thinking about it, her heart began beating incredbley fast, and she started to have trouble breathing. "Apple Bloom"! Apple Bloom was snapped back to reality when she heard the Mayor's voice calling her name. She looked up, and saw Mayor Mare smiling at her. "Oh, good afternoon Ma'am". Apple Bloom greeted polietly. "Hello to you too Apple Bloom, might I ask what brought you here today". Mayor Mare asked. "Oh Applejack has a delievery of Apple Fritters for you, she would have brought them herself, but she had work to do around the farm. Apple Bloom stated. "Why thank you Apple Bloom". Mayor Mare Replied. "No problem". Apple Bloom smiled. She was just about to leave, when Mayor Mare stopped her. "Hey Apple Bloom hold on a second. Apple Bloom turned around in confusion. "Yes"? She asked. "You know, when I came out to see you, I noticed that you looked kind of nervous, and you were sweating. Is anything the matter"? Mayor Mare asked. "Oh, no nothing's wrong, everything's fine". Apple Bloom stated. "Are you sure"? Mayor Mare asked. "Yeah, it's just that sometimes I get kind of stressed, and can't catch my breath, no big deal." Apple Bloom answered. "Apple Bloom, that kind of sounds like, Panic Attack". Mayor Mare replied. "Yeah, that's what Miss Cheerlie, and Nurse Redhart called it". Apple Bloom stated. "And Nurse Redhart works at the hospital, so I assume your seeing a doctor right"? Mayor Mare asked. "I'm not". Apple Bloom replied. "Oh, well can I ask what caused it"? Mayor Mare asked. "Well you see, our school is having it's annual talent show, and Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, and I want to peform a song, but I don't think we have the write jobs. Sweetie Belle wants to be the designer, but I think she should be the singer, Scootaloo wants to be the singer, but I think she should be the dancer, and they both want me to be the dancer, but I don't know how to dance". Apple Bloom stated. Mayor Mare nodded her head. "I see, well I think you should just focus on what's important". Mayor Mare stated. "What's that"? Apple Bloom asked. "Just have fun with your friends. Even if your perfomacne isn't all that good, just remeber that you're doing with your friends". Mayor Mare replied. Apple Bloom thought about for a momment, and smiled at the Mayor. "You're right, thank you". Apple Bloom said as she turned to leave, but before she did she turned back to Mayor Mare. "Oh Ms. Mayor could you please not tell my friends or family about my panic attack"? She asked. Mayor Mare nodded, and Apple Bloom smiled and left. Apple Bloom began to walk back to the clubhouse. She was feeling much better as she remebered Mayor Mare's Words. "Just remeber that you're doing with your friends". "That's right, I'm doing it with my friends". she thought to herself. As Apple Bloom was walking, she started to sing. Imagine there's no heaven It's easy if you try No hell below us Above us only sky Imagine all the fillies Living for today... Aha-ah... Imagine there's no countries It isn't hard to do Nothing to kill or die for And no religion, too Imagine all the stalions Living life in peace... You... You may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one I hope someday you'll join us And the world will be as one Imagine no possessions I wonder if you can No need for greed or hunger A brotherhood of man Imagine all the mares Sharing all the world... You... You may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one I hope someday you'll join us And the world will live as one. Woahwoahwoahooohaaaaaaiwooahoo Imagine all the ponies Living for today... Aha-ah... Imagine no possessions I wonder if you can No need for greed or hunger A brotherhood of man Imagine all the people Sharing all the world... You... You may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one I hope someday you'll join us And the world will live as one After she was done singing, she heard cheers behind her. Apple Bloom turned to see she had drawn a crowd. All of them were aplauding her. "Wonderful". said a stalion. "Simply Maginfcent". said another mare. Apple Bloom blushed, and quickly made her way back to the clubhouse where Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were waiting. "Hey Apple Bloom how'd the delivery go"? Asked Scootaloo. "Oh, it went fine." Apple Bloom replied. "Ready to start practicing"? She asked. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo looked at each other before turning to Apple Bloom. "Before we start Apple Bloom, there's something Sweetie Belle, and I have been discussing". Scootaloo stated. "Oh, what about"? Asked a confused Apple Bloom. "Listen Apple Bloom, we never told you this, but in all honesty while you may complement my singing voice very often". Sweetie Belle stated. "It's beautiful". Apple Bloom replied. "But it's nothing compared to your's"! Sweetie Belle exclaimed. That statment confused Apple Bloom greatly. "Huh"? She asked. Sweetie Belle just smiled in response, and put her hoof on Apple Bloom's shoulder. Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and I have both heard you sing multiple times. Behind the school on break, when you're working out here on the farm, and when you got lost in Manehatten. You have the voice of an angel". Sweetie Belle stated. Apple Bloom blushed after hearing Belle say that. "Is that all you wanted to say"? She asked. "Well, we've been thinking actually." Scootaloo stated. "About what"? Apple Bloom asked. "Well, I still want to be the main singer, but how about instead of you dancing, you insted provide background vocals". Scootlaoo suggested. Apple Bloom thought for a moment. "I'm just having fun with my friends". She then looked at Scootaloo, and nodded her head. "Alright". she replied. "YAY"! Both Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo cheered as they hugged Apple Bloom, who smiled warmliy, and returned the hug. "Now let's get practicing". Scootaloo stated. A few days later Applejack was walking up to the clubhouse, she wanted to see how the crusaders we're doing with practicing. "The talent show is just around the corner. I wonder how the fillies are doin'." She wondered to herself. Applejack then looked, and saw Reiner, and Bertholdt nearby. "Howdy Mr. Braun, Mr. Hoover". Applejack greeted the two stalions causing them to turn around. "Morning AJ". Reiner greeted. "Where you headed"? Asked Bertholdt. "Im just headin up to check on the CMCs, I'm sure you two are aware of the talent show, and that the plan on enterin right"? Applejack asked. "We are". Reiner replied. "Well I just wanna see how they're doin. You wanna come with"? Applejack asked. "Sure" Reiner replied as he and Bertholdt followed Applejack to the clubhouse. The three of them walked up to the window of the clubhouse, and saw the girls practicing some dance moves, but they weren't doing very well. "Oh! Sorry, Scootaloo." Apple Bloom apologized as she bumped into Scootaloo. "That's okay". Scootaloo assured, before being bumped into by Sweetie Belle. "Sorry Scoots". Sweetie Belle apologized. "It's fine Belle". "Ouch"! Sweetie Belle yelped when Scootaloo knocked into her. "Sorry Belle"! Scootaloo apologized. Apple Bloom them looked over at the two. Are you sure we really need all these dance moves and stuff, I mean can't we just sing the song"? She asked. "Of course we need them Apple Bloom, it will make are perfomance more awesome, but speaking of the song, why don't we practice the chorus". Scootaloo suggested. Outside Applejack, Reiner, and Bertholdt all had worried glances on their faces after seeing the dance moves. "Well, gosh. Sure wasn't expectin' that." Applejack stated. "I know". Reiner replied, I sure hope they don't get ridculed." "You and me both Reiner, You and me both". Applejack replied just as the fillies came out of the clubhouse. "That actually wasn't that bad". Apple Bloom stated. "Yeah I think we sounded really good. You think we're ready?" Sweetie Belle asked. "Ready as we'll ever be"! Scootaloo replied. Then then noticed Applejack, Reiner, and Bertholdt down bellow. "Hey did you see us practicing"? Scootaloo asked. " Uh... yeah." Reiner replied. "Well? How'd we do? How'd we do?" Apple Bloom asked eagerly. "Uh..." Applejack tried to say something, but she couldn't. But that didn't matter to Scootaloo or Sweetie Belle. "Speechless! See, girls? I told you that's what we're gonna do. We're gonna leave them speechless." Scootaloo said with full confidance. "Yay"! the girls cheered as Applejack turned to Reiner, and Bertholdt. "Speechless is rght". She whispered to them, unaware that Apple Bloom had heard them. The little filly knew that they weren't that good, but Applejack, Reiner, and Bertholdt clearly didn't want to say so. That however didn't matter to Apple Bloom as she remembered Mayor Mare's words to just have fun. Soon, the day of the talent show had arrived, everypony in town had arrived to see the students perform. So far several different performances had already happened, and now they were watching Snips, and Snails perform a magic trick. "And, on the count of three, this rabbit will disappear, and something tasty will reappear in its place." Snips said as he put a hat over the rabbit. "A one, a two, and a three!" He counted, but when he removed the hat the rabbit did in fact disappear, but their were no tasty treats in it's place. "Hey! Where are they? Snails, where are the... " Snips looked over at his friends, only to see him eating the carrots that we're suppose to be under the hat. The crowd all laughed, while Snips angrily chased Snails off the stage. Cheerlie then came out onto the stage to welcome the next act. "Uh, how about a round of applause for the S&S magic act? Now for our next act, we have Sunny Daze and Peachy Pie reciting their favorite poem... on roller skates!" Backstage the CMCs were waiting for their turn, all wearing cloaks over their costumes. They watched as Sunny, and Peachy skated onto the state. "Break a Leg"! Sweetie Belle called out to them shocking Apple Bloom. "Sweetie Belle! What a thing to say!" Apple Bloom scolded. "No, no, no. You see, in the theater it's considered bad luck to say "good luck". So you say "break a leg" instead." Sweetie Belle explained. "Oh". Apple Bloom muttered embarrased. Just then Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt came up to the CMCs. "My little ponies! How are you doing?" Twilight asked. "Nervous..." The crusaders replied. "Don't worry. You're gonna be amazing. Remember, just stick to what you know best. We can't wait to hear you sing, Sweetie Belle." Reiner told them "Why does everypony always think I'm gonna sing?" Sweetie Belle asked. "Actually, you three, I'm the main singer tonight. "Oh"? Reiner asked in confusion. "Yup, though Apple Bloom here is providing background vocals". Scootaloo replied pointing to Apple Bloom who blushed. "Really"? Twilight asked. "And I'm in charge of..." Sweetie Belle began. "Coustumes"? Bertholdt asked intterupting her. "And sets and props. How'd you know?" Sweetie Belle said. "Really, girls? Are you sure...?" Twilight asked. Apple Bloom was about to voice her uncertaintiy to everything when Cheerlie called them out to the stage. "Cutie Mark Crusaders, you're on next. Break a leg." The CMCs ran out onto the stage. "Break a le" Twilight tried to say, but then Apple Bloom tripped. "Uh, good luck". Twilight corrected. Onstage, the lights were out, the entire stage was shroded in darkness as the crowd waited in anticpation for what was about to happen. All of a sudden the audiance was enamored with the sound of a beautiful yet haunting vocalization. It was Apple Bloom Ahhhhh Ah Ahhhhhhh Ahhhhhhh Ahhhhhhhh Ahhhhh Ah Ahhhhhhh Ahhhhhh Ahhhhhh Ahhhhhh Ah Ahhhhhh Ahhhhhhh Ahhhhhh As Apple Bloom kept harmonzing, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle then Appeared, and Scootaloo started to sing the main parts of the song. Look, here, are three little ponies, Ready to sing for this crowd, Listen up, 'cause here's our story I'm gonna sing it Very loud Thanks to Apple Bloom's vocals in the back, it was hard to notice that Scootaloo wasn't singing very good, so she continued. When you're a younger pony And your flank is very bare Feels like the sun will never come When your cutie mark's not there So the three of us will fight the fight There is nothing that we fear We'll have to figure out what we'll do next. Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom then joined in with the main song. Til our cutie marks are here! We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our cutie marks [Scootaloo] They all say that you'll get your mark When the time is really right And you know just what you're supposed to do And your talent comes to light But it's not as easy as it sounds And that waiting's hard to do So we test our talents everywhere [Crusaders] Until our face is blue We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our cutie marks We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our cutie marks! [Apple Bloom with angelic singing voice] We won't stop till our quest is done. Never giving up we will previall I won't let anyone bring me down. With my friends I can succeed. Wah La la la, Ha Ha Ha Ha, Ah Ah Ah Ah, Na Na Na Na. Ist das der Zerstörer oder der Schöpfer? Mit der Glut des Hasses schwenken wir die Schwerter Ist das unser Schicksal oder unser Wille? Wir werden kämpfen, bis dieser heiße Wind unsere Flügel nimmt After the song was over the crowd just stood in place for a while, then they all started to cheer, and stamp their hooves. The Crusaders all smiled, and ran backstage. Later the awards were being given out. "Let's hear it for all our talented fillies and colts." Cheerlie stated. The crowd all cheered for the children. "Our first award goes to... Snips and Snails for best magic act." Cheerlie said as she gave the two colts medles, only for them to start arguing. "Hey! Mine's at least shinier." Snips said. "Well, mine's bigger." Snails replied. "Oh yeah, well... well, mine is, um... heavier?" Snails countered as the two of them ran off the stage. "The next award goes to... Sunny Daze and Peachy Pie for best dramatic performance." Cheerlie announced. The two fillies gasped in delight as they collected their medels. "The next award of the night goes to... the Cutie Mark Crusaders! For best song"! Cheerlie announced. The CMCs all smiled with happiness as Cheerlie gave them their medles "And there's one more award to give out". Cheerlie said while looking at Apple Bloom, who in turn looked back at Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo in confusion, but all they did was smile as Cheerlie continued. And finally, the last award goes to... Apple Bloom!" Cheerlie announced. "What"? Apple Bloom exclaimed as Spike walked up to her, and gave her a bouquet of roses, then Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo ran up to Apple Bloom, and hugged her smiling. Apple Bloom, not knowing how to compraheand this just smiled back. The three of them went backstage very happy "Can you believe it? We won!" Apple Bloom exclaimed. "It was really thanks to you Apple Bloom, your voice is what really helped us out". Scootaloo replied. "You defenilty deserved those flowes Apple Bloom". Sweetie Belle stated making Apple Bloom blush. "I don't know about". Apple Bloom tried to say only for Scootaloo to intterupt her. "Hey don't say you don't desereve this, because you do". Scootaloo said. Apple Bloom jsut smiled at her friends. Sweetie Belle then sighed. "You know what would be the best? If we won and we got our cutie marks." They all groanded as Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt walked up to them. "Hey girls, why the long faces"? Reiner asked. "Yeah, you guys won, that should be something to smile about Twilight replied. "We worked really hard and won a prize, but we still don't have our cutie marks." Scootaloo explained. "And that's what we really wanted". Sweetie Belle replied. "Hey, don't be so hard on yourselves, remember to just keep trying". Bertholdt stated. Apple Bloom looked up at the three of them. "You're right, and we have to do something we enjoy, and I think that's". "Comendy"! Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo both exclaimed as they were now wearing clown hair and noses before running back onto stage to meet with Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash. "What"? Apple Bloom exclaimed in confusion, but Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt just smiled at her. "Don't worry, they'll understand someday". Apple Bloom smiled, and went onto the stage. Later that night, Apple Bloom fell asleep with the roses in a vase next to her bed. Preview When Rarity recives a special order, she and Spike go in search for some new gems. However, when a group of creatures called diamond dogs abduct Rarity, Spike and the others must venture into the dogs underground lair in order to rescue her. Next Episode. A Dog and Pony Show Author's Note Characters in order of appearance Applejack Apple Bloom Scootaloo Sweetie Belle Shoeshine Cherry Berry Daisy Twinkleshine Berry Punch Derpy Hooves Minnuette Golden Harvest Granny Smith Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Bright Macintosh (Flashback) Pear Butter (Flashback) Historia Reiss (Vision) Frou Frou Spike Twilight Sparkle Samatha Cheerlie Rarity Mr. Breezy Mayor Mare Snips Snails Lyra Heartstrings Amethyst Star Doctor Hooves Sweetie Drops Sunny Daze Peachy Pie Diamond Tiara Silverspoon Twist Rainbow Dash
Episode 26: A Dog and Pony Show: Gala arc Part 19Rarity stood in her work room, finishing up her latest project. "Perfect". she said just as the door to her shop opened. "Coming! Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where every garment is chic, unique, and magnifique." Rarity began to say, only to stop, and gasped at the pony who just walked in. "Sapphire Shores! The pony of pop!" Rarity exclaimed as said famous pony stood in her room. Sapphire Shores smiled at Rarity. "Good afternoon, Miss Rarity!" She greeted. Rarity just stood still in shock, and could only stammer in response. "You yah... y-y-you know my name?" Rarity asked. "Well, of course I do, darling. I make it a point to know all of the up-and-coming designers and Clothes Horse magazine simply raved about you." Sapphire Shores responed. "Oh my stars. If I'm dreaming, do not wake me up." Rarity said to herself, before turning to Sapphire Shores. "How may I help you, Miss Shores?" Rarity asked. "Oh please, call me Sapphire." Sapphire Shores replied. Rarity giggled before responding. "How may I help you, Sapphire?" She asked. "Well, as I'm sure you know, I'll be touring all of Equestria with my latest concert, Sapphire Shores' Ziegfilly Follies, so I need to look seeensational! Ow!" Sapphrie Shores responded. Rarity smiled, and led Sapphire over to the dress she had just finished. "I have just what you need. Sapphire Shores, prepare yourself for the pièce de résistance de la haute couture. I used every last diamond I found on this one garment." Rarity said as she showed the popstar the dress. Sapphire gasped in delight upon seeing it. "And it is spectacular! I'll take it." She exclaimed. Rarity gasped. "Really"? she asked. "Oh yes, and five more, each done up in a different jewel." Sapphrie replied confusing Rarity. "Beg Pardon". Rarity asked. "Costume Changes". Sapphire Shores replied. Hearing that, Rarity realized this wasn't going to be easy, and to make matters worse she was all out of gems. So as of that very moment all Rarity could do was faint. "Yes, I do have that effect on ponies." Sapphire Shores chuckled to herself as she left the store. As soon as she was gone Rarity got up, and looked at her empty jewel box. "Alright don't panic Rarity, all you need to do is get more jewels, you can do this". She said before gulping. "I hope". Rarity, and Spike walked through a patch of land searching for gems for Sapphire Shores dress, the whole time Spike was gushing over the fact that Rarity was making a dress for someone so famous. "Oh my gosh! Sapphire Shores! The pony of pop! She is awesome! I mean, she's gorgeous and talented and". Spike said before stopping, and chuckling to look at his crush. "heh... and not even half the pony you are. I mean, you're ten times more gorgeous and talented and" "Spike A lady is never jealous". Rarity reassured him. "Eh, of course not. But were you totally flipping out or what?!" Spike asked. "Ladies do not "flip out", Spike. However, I was quite in awe." Rarity explained. "However, I was quite in awe". She admitted. Rarity then began to focus on what they needed to do. "Oh, I need to find more jewels than ever before to decorate her costumes". She lit her horn, and was able to find some gems. "Oh, aha"! "Did you find some"? Spike asked. "Yes Spike! Right there"! Rarity replied. Spike went over to where Rarity pointed and dug up several gems. He admired how amazing they looked, and began to think how delicious they would taste. "Ooooo! You look so delicious..." He stated. "Spike! I promised I'd give you gems to snack on, but we need to collect more first or I'll never be able to make these outfits for Sapphire." Rarity reminded him. Spike sighed as he gave the gems to Rarity. "Hm... I will miss you, my sweets." "Come along, Spike. We have many jewels to find." Rarity called. "At your service, milady." And so Spike and Rarity kept searching for more gems. Rarity would use her gem finding spell to locate them, and Spike would dig them up. They did this for about half an hour. Soon Rarity felt she had plentey of gems. She was especailly greatful to Spike for helping her. "You've been very patient today, Spike. And for that you get the finest reward. This is from me to you." She said as she gave a shinny blue gem. Spike took the gem, and admired it for a few minutes. "Is something wrong Spike"? Rarity asked. "No. It's perfect." Spike replied. Rarity smiled, then she felt her horn locate even more gems. "Ooo, bring the cart, Spike. There are more over here." She said. Spike admired his gift. He knew he couldn't eat that gem, no mater how tastey it looked it was a gift from Rarity. "For me. From Rarity." Spike whispered. He then went to catch up with Rarity. However unbeknownst to Spike, he was being watched from the bushes. "Yesss, gemsss. Gemsss!" A voice whispered. "Where"? Asked another voice. "Preciousss gemsss!" The first voice said watching Spike. "He is the gem hunter. With him we can have all those gems... and more! Let's get the dragon". The figure told his allies. But before they could move Rarity's voice called out. "Spike! Where are you"? "Wait who is that"? The first voice asked. "You know, it's terrible to keep a lady waiting." Rarity reminded Spike as he came over to where she was standing. "Coming" Spike said. Again Rarity used her spell to locate some gems. "I think we're really going to strike gold this time. So to speak." So to speak. she chuckled as Spike began to dig up the gems. "Jackpot"! He exclaimed. The figures hiding in the bushes, having seen the whole thing realized that Rarity, using her spell was the one finding the gems, not Spike. "Oh, it's not the dragon we want. It's the pony!" It said. Spike put the gems inside the wagon that he and Rarity had brought with them. Now Rarity was certian she had enough gems to complete Sapphire Shores dress. "Well, Spike, I think that's all we can do for today. And these will certainly get me well on my way with Sapphire's outfits. Why don't we start headi..." Rarity began, when all of a sudden her horn started glowing again. "Oh What's this? Another jewel"? She asked in confusion as her horn led her to a tree. "Oh... oh, strange. It's in the trees?" She pondered. All of a sudden a face of a creature popped out of the leaves startling Rarity. "Oooo— eww!" Rarity exclaimed as the creature jumped out of the bushes reavling itself to be some type of dog like thing. "Uh... uh... good day, gentle... uh, fellow. Uh, I am Rarity and this is my friend Spike." Rarity chuckled nervously. Spike just chuckled nervously. Rarity turned back to the dog lie creature and smiled nervously. "And you are"? She asked. "A Diamond Dog". the thing replied. "Oh really? Oh well, that explains your fine taste in jewelry. I mean I-I-I know that diamonds are a girl's best friend and now I know that they're a dog's best friend too, ha ha ha." Rarity admired as the Diamond Dog crept towards her and Spike. "So, um, you're out hunting for gems as well?" she asked. "Yes, we hunt". The Diamond Dog responed. "We"? Rarity asked in confusion. "We hunt for gems. But you are a better hunter. So now we hunt... for you!" The Diamond Dog said as two other Diamond Dogs jump out of the ground, and tried to grab Rarity who screamed and ducked. Spike jumped on one of the dogs tail, and used his own tail to jab into it repeatdly. The dog yelped in pain as Spike shoved the largest of the three back. He then turned to Rarity. "Run, Rarity!" He told her as the largest dog shoved Spike to the ground. Rarity did as Spike told her, and ran away. The big dog tried to go after her, but Spike grabbed him by the leg causing him to fall on top of the smallest one. Rarity turned back to Spike. "Spike! Come on! Hurry!" She yelled. But then the first Diamond Dog leaped out of the ground in front of Rarity. "Gotcha"! He exclaimed. He grabbed Rarity as she screamed. Spike was still holding on to the big dog. "Got him, Rarity! I got him!" He strained. The big dog however just kicked his legs up, and sent Spike into the tree. "Haha nope". He mocked. "Sorry scaly one". The small one said. "Wait! Rarity?" Spike asked as he fell out of the tree only to see the Diamond Dogs leap down the whole with Rarity as she tried to get out of their grasp. "Unhand me this instant, you ruffians. Stop! Put me down, you thugs! You brutes!" She yelled. "Rarity". Spike gasped. Rarity tried to get out of the whole, calling out for Spike. "Spike! Ah, dirt!" She yelled, but the Diamond Dogs grabbed her face and draged her down. "Aaaaah, Spiiiike!" She screamed as Spike went over to the whole in a panic. "Which, what, where?" He stammered. "Save Me"! He heard Rarity scream. "Nooooooooooo!" Spike yelled. Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Reiner Braun, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Bertholdt Hoover all ran to the area where Rarity was taking. Spike was on Twilight's back breathing into a plastic bag, Twilight looked up to him in concern. "Spike, can you breathe now?" She asked. Spike panted. "Yes.... I think so". He replied. "Good. Now tell us what you know." Reiner told him. "Yeah. 'Cause all you said earlier was..." Rainbow Dash stated as a flashback showed Spike coming up to all of them in a panic. "Aaaah! Rarity... woods... jewels... dogs... hole... taken... Save her!" "Not a whole lot to go on there, sport." Applejack stated. "Sorry. Rarity and I were in the woods looking for jewels when these creepy guys showed up." Spike explained. "Creepy guys"? Asked Bertholdt in confusion. "They called themselves the Diamond Dogs. They grabbed Rarity and disappeared down a hole in the ground." Spike said. Applejack's face became full of determination after hearing that. "Well, this sounds mighty easy. Just take us to that there hole and we'll save Rarity." She told Spike. However when they arrived they saw that their were now a bunch of holes as oppose to one. "Holy moly, that's a lotta holeys." Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Clearly they knew we were coming". Reiner stated. "Well what do we do"? Asked Fluttershy. "The only thing we can do, go through ever single one of these holes until we find the right one". Reiner replied. "Reiner's right everypony! Let's get started." Twilight stated as she walked up to one of the holes. "Hello"? She called down. All of a sudden a pair of eyes looked up at Twilight startling her. She gasped in shock as a bunch of dirt was thrown into her face. Then some more dirt hit Reiner, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Bertholdt, Fluttershy, and Spike. Twilight realized that the Diamond Dogs were covering up all the holes so that the Mane 8 wouldn't be able to chase after them. "Quick! We gotta get down one before they're all filled up!" Twilight exclaimed as they all tried to get into a hole. "Oh! Oh my. Oh, oh!" Fluttershy stammered. Pinkie Pie tried jumping down one, but was stopped by the piles of dirt. Applejack tried to force her way through, but the eruptions of dirt coming from the ground was two strong. "We can't muscle through it!" She exclaimed. Rainbow Dash however wasn't going down so eaisly. "We'll see about that". she stated as she flew towards one of the holes as Reiner attempted to stop her. "Rainbow don't"! He yelled, but it was too late. Rainbow Dash flew down towards the hole, but that one too was covered up by dirt, forcing her to stop. "Whew. Heavens to Betsy. Now I'm used to pickin' myself up and dustin' myself off, but Rarity won't even touch mud 'less it's imported." Applejack stated. "Oh, Rarity". Twilight sighed as she and the others imagned Rarity in a cage. "Oh, woe is me! Whatever shall I do? Ah! Dirt, dirt! Get away, dirt! Oh! Make it stop, make it stop! Ah! Filthy, disgusting dirt. It stings, it burns. Help! Oh, somepony save me, save me!" They all imagned Rarity saying. "We can't just stand around and do nothing, Rarity needs us". Reiner stated. "That's right, we gotta save her". Applejack agreed. "But how, they blocked up all the holes". Fluttershy pointed out. "Don't mean we can't dig em out". Applejack replied as she, Pinkie, Reiner, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt all started to dig. However one of the Diamond Dogs came up behind Pinkie, and pulled her tail hard. "Ow"! She yelped in pain. Another one then came up picked up Fluttershy, and threw her onto the ground. "Oh"! She cried. Both of them then threw dirt into Bertholdt, and Reiner's faces "Ugh"! Groaned Reiner. "Blech"! Cried Bertholdt. Spike tried to run through the mounds in an attempt to find any openings, but he was tripped by one of the dogs. Meanwhile Twilight, and Rainbow Dash were both trying to dig through more mounds when two of the Diamond Dogs popped up from the mound that was in the middle. "Get em"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she and Twilight charged towards them, but they ducked back into the hole causing Twilight, and Dash to crash into eachother. The Diamond dogs kept messing with the ponies, and Spike until they were all too exhausted to even move, and were soon all panting on the ground. "All those scary monsters popping up everywhere. Oh, poor Rarity must be terrified." Fluttershy said as they once again imagined what Rarity was going through. In their imagantion Rarity was in a dark room and the Diamond Dogs were poping out around her. "Give me the baubles"! The smallest one exclaimed. "Ah!" Rarity yelped "Give me the beads"! The largest one jumped. "Aah"! Rarity yelped. "Where are the trinkets"?! The leader demanded. "Aaaah"! Rarity screamed "Where is the treasure"! All of them jumped infront of Rarity causing her to faint. "Oh poor Rarity what are we going to do"? Twilight asked. It was then Spike noticed something. It was another hole that wasn't filled up yet. However he new that if he just tried to jump into the hole they would just close it up, so he came up with a plan. "I got it! I'll save you, my sweet." Spike said as he pulled the gem that Rarity had given him out of his pocket. He then grabbed a fishing line, attachted the gem to it, and threw it down the hole. "Spike, what are doing"? Reiner asked. "These guys love gems, and if we just tried to jump down that hole, then they would just seal it up, but if they see a jewel come down, then I'm sure they'll take the bait". Spike explained. "Ah, I see". Reiner replied. "Spike, it's very noble". Twilight began, but Spike shushed her. So she began to speak more quietly. "To sacrifice the gem Rarity gave you". She told him. "Ah Rarity. My damsel in distress". He sighed as he imagined himself as a strong knight in shining armor coming to save a fair princess. I shall save you. Show yourselves, you dogs! You curs! he called out to them before seeing them. Ah. There you are, you mangy mutts." "Who are you calling mutts?! Unleash the hounds"! The leader ordered as he blew a dog whislte. A bunch of guard dogs came charging from all directions, but Spike used his spear, and tail to whack them all away. He then turned to the three main dogs. "Now where is lady Rarity"! He demanded. The dogs, cowering in fear pointed to a cage. Spike charged towards it, and broke through with his spear. There inside was Rarity in a princess gown. She was delighted to see him. "Spike! I knew you would save me!" She said. "Nothing could stop me, milady." Spike reminded her. "Ohohohoh, Spike. You are my... hero." Rarity said. They then both moved in for a kiss. Then Spike was taken out of his fanasty by Applejack. "Hoho there, lover boy." She chuckled. Spike blushed, and smiled. All of a sudden, something strong pulled on the fishing line. "Whoa! Whoa whoa whoawhoawhoa... I got a bite! I got a bite!" He exclaimed as he was pulled towards the hole. Applejack went to help Spike, and grabbed him by the tail. "Hold on there, little fella." But she too was starting to be pulled into the hole causing Twilight to come after them "Applejack"! she cried as she was draged into the hole. "Twilight"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed. "Come on Bertholdt"! Reiner told his friend as he followed after the others. "Right"! Bertholdt replied and went with Reiner both of them diving into the hole, and leaving Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy who then also went after them. "Oh my goodness, oh my goodness..." Fluttershy stammered as she jumped in. "Wait for me"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Soon all of them were sliding down the hole, all of them screaming in fear. Well except for Pinkie Pie, who of course was having fun. Eventually they made it down, and were in the Diamond Dogs hide out. "Ha ha, it worked! We're in! Now we can finally save Rarity!" Spike exclaimed excitedly. However there was one problem. There were mutliple tunnels, and no one knew which one led to Rarity. "Um... which way do we go?" Bertholdt asked. Realizing the situation Spike once again through his arms into the air, and screamed. "Nooooooooooo!" Currently Publicly Avalible Information Dimaond Dogs. Canine like creatures, as their name suggest they love gems, and jewels of any kind, and they have a knack for finding them. However they prefer someone else look for the gems for them. "Damnit what are we going to do"? Reiner asked. "I don't know". Twilight replied as she looked at all the different holes. "All these tunnels... how are we ever gonna find Rarity?" She asked. "Guess we're just gonna have to start going down them one by one." Applejack suggested. "That could take forever! There's gotta be way to narrow it down." Rainbow Dash pointed out. "But how are we going to do that"? Fluttershy asked. "Yeah, those things could have taken Rarity down any one of these tunnels". Bertholdt replied. That was when Spike got an idea. "I know! I bet they've taken Rarity down the tunnel with the most gems." He stated. "But Spike, Rarity is the only one who knows how to find gems." Twilight told him, only for Spike to turn, and smile at her. "No, Twilight. You, and Mr. Braun can! You two can copy Rarity's gem-finding spell." He told her. Twilight gasped in realization after hearing Spike say that. "Oh my gosh! You're right! Rarity showed Reiner". Twilight remembered. "That's right, back when were exploring in that cave". Reiner replied. Soon he and Twilight lit up their horns, and soon enough were abel to find the tunnel that had the most gems, and was most likely the one Rarity was down. "That's it. You two did it, Twilight come on"! Spike said as he jumped on to Twilight's back. Soon all of them ran down the tunnel to find Rarity. "We're coming, Rarity. We'll save you. Just hold on". Spike thought to himself. Rarity meanwhile was at the end of the tunnel, cornered by the Diamond Dogs. "Oh please, Diamond Dogs. Please let me go." She begged. "No"! The Smallest one replied. "You're our precious little pony." The Biggest one informed her. "Forever! Muhahahaha!" The Leader laughed. "But whatever do you want from me?" Rarity asked. "Gemsss!" The leader answered. "Yes! The gems. The jewels." The Smallest one replied. "Find them! All of them"! The biggest one demaneded. Realizeing that was all they wanted, Rarity felt a little more at ease, thinking that maybe if she found what they wanted then they would let her leave. "Oh? Is that all"? she asked. The leader nodded his head, he was quickly getting annoyed though. Rarity then used her gem finding spell, and found a small pile of jewels a few meters away. "There. A lovely pocket of jewels are right there. Now, if you'd be so kind as to show me the exit?" She asked. However the leader just laughed at her. "Good! Now, dig them up, pony!" He ordered. "What? But you said you wanted me to find the gems." Rarity said. "Yes. Find, and Dig!" The smallest one replied. "Dig"? Rarity asked. "Yes. Dig." The largest Diamond Dog told her. Rarity however did not want to did, but she didn't know what the Diamond Dogs would do to her if she refused. Then she came up with something. Rarity went over to where the gems were, and began to dig, horrbily, and very slowly as the Diamond Dogs waited. Eventually though they began to get impatient. "What are you doing? We said dig!" The largest one stated. "Forgive me, but prior to you so rudely dragging me into your dirt pit, I had a pony-pedi and I am not about to chip a hoof because you dislike my style of digging." Rarity informed them, and continued to slowly dig. The leader of the Diamond Dogs was growing more and more frustrated with Rarity's poor digging skills. Finally he had enough. "Oh, for goodness— Fine! Just stop. Stop"! He exclaimed before turning to the guard dogs. "Dig, dogs! Dig! And fast." He ordered. The dogs did as they were told, and dug up the gems. Rarity smirked thinking she had just gotten out of doing any hard work, however the Diamond Dogs had other plans for her as the largest one grabbed a chain, and began to walk over to Rarity. "She won't dig, she pulls." He said as he put the chain on her back confusing Rarity greatly. "I beg your pardon, but what, pray tell, are you doing?" Rarity asked. "Others will dig. You will haul the wagon." He told her. "Prrrecious pony-pedi will be preserved." The smallest dog replied as he and the largest one began to adjust the chain on Rarity's back. "Well, somebody certainly needs proper nail care. When was the last time you two had a manicure? You're scratching up my coat with those jagged things!" She complained as the two dogs were digiging into her fur. It got so bad that the leader was getting very frustrated. "Please be quiet!" He practicly begged her, only for Rarity to gag in disgust. "Good heavens, what is that smell?" She asked, annoying the leader even more. "Smeeeeeell?" he asked, leaning closer to Rarity, his paticene getting very thin. Rarity just smirked in response. "Ah, mystery solved. It's your breath." She mocked him. Rarity was now getting on the leader's last nerves, he thought this would be easy, but it wasn't. "Enough! Search, pony!" He ordered. Rarity sighed as she began hauling the cart, and using her magic to find where the gems were. However, she made sure to complain about every single detail of the tunnels, and situation she was in, much to the Diamond Dogs annyonace. "Well, since you insist... but I must say the working conditions in here are simply dreadful. Musty and damp, it's going to wreak havoc on my mane. And this air is stifling, suffocating. And when I try to take a deep breath, the stench of all you dogs makes me nauseated. You look and smell like you haven't bathed in weeks. Have you never heard of soap? You could all do with a good round of soap and water." Rarity told them as she stopped. "Oh water, oh water, I'm terribly thirsty. Could I please have some water?" She asked just as the smallest of the diamond dogs finally lost his patiecnes and held his ears. "Good gracious, I can't take this anymore. Be quiet, pony!" He demanded causing Rarity to become more annoyed as well. "And that's another thing. I would appreciate if you stopped calling me "pony". I am a lady and I wish to be addressed as such. So you may call me "Miss" or "Rarity" or "Miss Rarity". She told them. Just as the leader got more aggitated. "Enough! Your whining! It-it-it hurts!" He complained. Rarity just looked at him confused. "Whining? I am not whining. I am complaining." She told them. "Do you want to hear whining"? She asked as she began doing just that. "Thiiis iiis whiiining! Oooh, this harness is too tiiight! It's going to chafe. Can't you loosen it? Oooh, it hurts and it's sooo ruuusty! Why didn't you clean it first? It's gonna leave a staaain! And the wagon's getting heeeavy, why do I have to pull it? She whinned as the Diamond Dogs all held their ears in annyonce. "Aaah! Make it stop!" The smallest one begged. "Stop whinning"! The leader demanded. "But I thought you wanted whiiining!" Rarity stated still in that whinny voice. The leader, finally having enought fell to his knees in defeat. "Geh! We'll do anything, pony!" He said, but quickly corrected himself when he saw the glare Rarity was giving him. "Oh, uh, uh, we'll do anything, "Miss Rarity". He chuckled nervously. "Anything"? Rarity asked. Soon Rarity found herself being pampared while the Diamond Dogs did all the work for her. Sure she still used her magic to find the Gems, but now she was being treated with the respect a lady should be treated with. She smiled as she was given some water. She looked at it and sighed. "This water is hardly sparkling. But I suppose it will have to do." She stated. Meanwhile the three main Diamond Dogs were now pulling the wagons with the gems inside of them, panting, and sweating do to how heavey they were, then the leader stopped all of a sudden. "Wait! Why are we doing this"?! He asked "To stop the awful noises from the pony's mouth, remember"? The smallest one reminded him. This made the leader grimice. "That Bitch! Thinking she can order us around, and take over our tunnles". he murrmered to himself before turning to the other two. "This is ridiculous! Letting a pony order us around. What are we? Mice or dogs?" He asked. The other two heasaitated before answering "Dogs". They muttered. The leader smiled, please with their response. "Dogs do not pull. Ponies pull. Let her make the awful noises." He stated as he went over to Rarity. Rarity was standing off in the corner enjoying her drink, and watching as the dogs did the work they had tried to foce her to do, but she was completely shocked when she felt the leader of the Diamond Dogs put the chain back onto her. "What the hell do you think you are doing"?! She demanded to know before noticing that her water had been spilled. " Hey, you spilled my drink." She informed him, but then she remembered how she got them to do what she wanted, and immediately started whinning again. "Not sooo tiiight!" However the leader no longer cared about Rarity's whinning, he was done being pushed around by a pony so he just smirked at Rarity. "Ha! Make the noises all you want. But move while you make them. Hyah, mule!" He ordered slapping Rarity in the process. Upon hearing herself being called a mule Rarity turned to the leader. "Did you just call me a... mule? She asked lips quivering and eyes filling with tears. The leader just looked at her in confusion. "Ehhh"? He pondered. "Mules are ugly. Are you saying that I too am ugly?" Rarity asked before bursting into tears as the leader just stood there in shock not knowing what to do just as the other two Diamond Dogs came over. "What are these noises"? The smallest one asked. "He called me ugly!" Rarity wailled. "No! Mule! I said mule!" The leader said trying to defend himself. "An old ugly mule! And it's true! Just look at me. I used to be beautiful, but, but nooow..." Rarity stated as she continued sobbing. "No, no! You're still beautiful, po... uh, Miss Rarity." The biggest one said trying to reassure Rarity, but she didn't belive him. "You're just saying that!" Rarity cried. "No, you're still pretty and... and..." The smallest began to say before nudging the leader who quickly tried to say something encouging as well. "Oh, uh, uh, nice. Yeah." He said. "I don't believe you! You never liked me". Rarity wailled as the leader just sighed in defeat. "Oh, I've had just about enough of this!" He groaned. Meanwhile the others were kept following the tunnel as Twilight, and Reiner kept using the gem finding spell. "We're getting close. I can feel it." Reiner stated as they kept running. As they got closer they could hear Rarity's cries of despair. "It's coming from down here. Come on!" Spike exclaimed. The group kept on running until they came to a caged door, behind it they could hear Rarity. "She must be in there. Let's go!" Rainbow Dash stated, but before they could make their move the guard dogs jumped on all of their backs. "More work horses"! One of them grinned evily as they tried to put ropes on the Mane Eight's mouths. Applejack however wasn't planning on going down without a fight. "Hoh, doggies. If you can take this bull by the horns, you better be ready for a ride." She stated before she started jumping and around wildly in an attempt to buck the dog off of her. She then turned and urged the others to do the same. "Come on, ponies! Kick 'em up, kick 'em out. Buck 'em up, buck 'em down." Applejack ordered. The others quickly followed Applejack's lead and soon they manged to buck the guard dogs off of them, and they ran off. "Yeehaw! Get along, little doggies!" Applejack cheered. After that was done Spike jumped back onto Twilight's back, and grabbed a spear like object. "I'm coming for you, milady. Hi-ho, Twilight! Away!" He exclaimed causing Twilight to angrily look at him. "And just what do you think you're doing"?! She asked. "Please, Twilight. Just give me this." Spike begged. Twilight just sighed. "Eh... fine." The group then ran towards the doors, crashing through them. " Lady Rarity, I'm here to save you!" Spike exclaimed. However he and the others were complelty shocked to see the Diamond Dogs running towards them. "Save us! Please, save us! Make it stop! Please!" They all cried out confusing the group. "Excuse me"? Reiner asked in confusion. "So picky". The smallest one said. "And critical." The biggest one said. "She won't stop talking". The smallest one continued. "And Crying". The biggest one replied. "We , uh, give her back. Yes." The leader stated as Rarity walked over carrying a cart of gems behind her. Spike was over the moon to see that Rarity was alright. "Rarity! You're safe!" He exclaimed. Rarity smiled at him. "Why yes". She said before looking at the others". Hello everypony, you're just in time to help me". Rarity stated. "Help you with what"? Asked Applejack. "These"! Rarity answered turning to a bunch of carts filled with jewels. Spike looked at all of them in amazment. He then turned to the Diamond Dogs. "You're letting her leave with all these... jewels?" He asked. "Yes take them, her, and get out"! The leader exclaimed. "Please"! The smallest one begged. Soon the group was out of the tunnel making their way back to ponyville. "I can't believe you found all these gems!" Pinkie Pie stated. "Heh. I can't believe you tricked all those dogs." Rainbow Dash replied. "Reminds Bertholdt and I of a couple of girls we know". Reiner said. Rarity just smiled at her friends. "Just because I'm a lady doesn't mean I cannot handle myself in a sticky situation. I had them wrapped around my hoof the entire time." Rarity stated. "I can't wait to write to Princess Celestia to tell her what you taught me today." Twilight told Rarity who looked at Twilight in confusion. "Me? What did I teach you?" She asked. "Just because somepony is ladylike doesn't make her weak. In fact, by using her wits, a seemingly defenseless pony can be the one who outsmarts and outshines them all." Twilight replied. " Hm... "outshines" is right. Now you have enough gems to cover Sapphire Shores' costumes." Spike said as he ate one of the gems. "Not if you eat them all, Spike." Rarity replied causing the others to laugh. Preview Fashion photgrapher Photo Finish wants to make Fluttershy a model causing Rarity to become Jealous. Meanwhile Fluttershy doesn't like the attention she is getting, however both are unable to say anything out of fear of hurting the other's feelings, Next Episode. Green isn't Your Color Author's Note Characters in order of appearance Rarity Sapphire Shores Spike Rover Fido Spot Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Applejack Rainbow Dash Fluttershy Pinkie Pie Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback)
Episode 27: Green isn't Your Color: Gala arc Part 20Fluttershy sat in the waiting room of the ponyville spa house. She was waiting for Rarity to arrive so the two of them could hang out for their weekly get together. After a few more miniutes of waiting Rarity came rushing into the spa house. "So sorry, Fluttershy. I hate being late for our weekly get-together." She apologized before turning to Lotus Blossom. "The usual please". Rarity told her. Rarity and Fluttershy started their day getting a bath, during which Rarity explained to Fluttershy why she was late. "But you will not believe what happened to me." Rarity stated casuing Fluttershy to get a little worried. "Is everything alright"? she asked. Rarity smiled and nodded in reassuarance. "Oh, it's much more than all right. I was on my way here, wearing my latest hat creation, when who should stop me on the street but Photo Finish!?" Rarity replied exictedtly. "Photo Finish"? Fluttershy asked in confusion, not knowing what Rarity was talking about. The two of them stood up and left the steam bath. Aloe, and Louts Blossom then put a mud mask on Rarity's face, while Fluttershy only had a couple of drops put on her, as she didn't really like her face being covered. While that was going on Rarity was explaing to Fluttershy who Photo Finish was. "She is the most famous fashion photographer in all of Equestria. Anywho, she saw my hat and said it was absolutely marvelous!" "What a lovely compliment." Fluttershy replied. "She was so impressed that she wants to take some pictures of my shop featuring some of my clothes!" Rarity continued as she and Fluttershy began getting massages. "That's wonderful". Fluttershy stated. "Do you know what this could mean for my fashion career?" Rarity asked. Fluttershy nodded. "Oh, Rarity, I'm so happy for you." She said as she, and Rarity went over to the mud baths. "But I'm going to need somepony fabulous to model for me. Somepony with beauty. Somepony with grace. Somepony... like you?" Rarity asked. Fluttershy was shocked, and began to stutter. "Oh, goodness. I don't know." Fluttershy admitted. Hearing her friends doubts Rarity tried to reassure Fluttershy as to why she was to best option. "Oh, this is such a huge opportunity. And it would mean so much to me." Rarity stated. "I'm flattered, really." Fluttershy replied as Rarity continued. "Nopony is going to have your elegance and poise." Rarity said. "But..." Fluttershy began only for Rarity to intterupt her. "Nopony"! Fluttershy stilled tried to convice Rarity to ask someone else. "Somepony more comfortable in the spotlight." However Rarity continued to beg. "Please, please, pleeease!" She pleaded. Finally realizing she had no other choice Fluttershy sighed. "Oh, if it's that important to you, of course I'll do it". Hearing Fluttershy say that put a huge smile on Rarity's face as she rushed over to hug the pegaus. "Oh, thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou! You are the best friend a pony could ever have!" She squeled in delight. Rarity, and Fluttershy soon left the spa, Fluttershy being very satisfied with their treatmeant. "What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon." She smiled. Rarity nodded in agreement as she walked behind Fluttershy. "Isn't it? Though I was so afraid you wouldn't agree to model for me that I felt completely frazzled". Rarity admited before feeling her face. "Oh, I think I feel a pimple coming on. Only one thing to do Rarity said. Fluttershy just smiled as she watched Rarity go back into the spa house. "The usual". Rarity stated. At the carousel boutquie Fluttershy stood on the dressing stage watching while Rarity fitted her in one of the outfitts she made. With them were Reiner Braun, Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Bertholdt Hoover, and Spike. Rarity looked intently at Fluttershy, she wanted to make sure the pegagus knew how to present herself when Photo Finish arrived. "Hm... She's going to want to see attitude and pizzazz." Rarity informed Fluttershy. "A-a-attitude and, um... pizzazz." Fluttershy stammered as she attempted to present herself in that matter. Rarity came over to check out how Fluttershy looked. She then looked over to Twilight and Reiner. "More Light". Rarity demanded. Twilight, and Reiner lit up their horns as Rarity study Fluttershy's dress carefully. "It has to catch the sequins just so or the whole outfit is just a disaster. Oh, and the headdress needs more feathers." She stated. She then called out to Pinkie Pie. "Pinkie Pie! More feathers!" The pink earth pony hapily skipped over with a basket of feathers, and gave them to Rarity who added them to the head peace of Fluttershy's dress. After she did that Rarity realiezed the dress also needed more sequins as well. "And sequins! More sequins!" "Spike came over with said sequince, having a dreamy look on his face do to his crush on Rarity. Once he gave Rarity the sequins the unicorn blew them into Fluttershy's face making her wince. "And more ribbion." Rarity said. Spike put another ribbion into Fluttershy's hair, however Rarity then decieded she didn't like it. "Oh no! Less ribbon." She said. So Spike took it out, but Rarity then wanted it back in. "No more ribbion". So Spike put it back in all the while Fluttershy was getting increasingly more frustrated, but tried not to show it. "Hey Rarity are you sure about this". Bertholdt asked clearly seeing Fluttershy was pretty uncomfortable. "Yes Mr. Hoover I'm sure about this". Rarity replied as she then looked at the hem of Fluttershy's dress. " Oh, this hem is completely off. Pincushion"! She ordered. Spike once again went to get what Rarity asked for by putting the pins into his back. Rarity then plucked out the ones she wanted while leaving a few in Spike, who simply went back to the others. "Thank you all for helping me. I'm sorry to be so short with you, but I'm... I'm just so nervous." Rarity told her friends. Meanwhile Spike made his way back to the others as Twilight looked at his back in concern. "Oh, doesn't that hurt?" She asked in concern. "Thick scales. Can't feel a thing." Spike reassured her. "And even if I could, there is no pain that would keep me from assisting the most beautiful creature in the world." Spike admited as Twilight groaned. Spike then turned to the four ponies behind him. "Im going to tell you guys a secret, but you can't tell anyone, promise"? He asked. "I promise". Twilight stated. "Sure thing little buddy". Reiner repiled. "Of course". Said Bertholdt. "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." Pinkie Pie answered. Satsified Spike gestured for them to come closer. "I have a crush on Rarity!" Spike said. Pinkie Pie gasped in shock, but Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt just rolled their eyes. "We won't say a word!" Pinkie Pie promised. Twilight just rolled her eyes again. "Give me a break. Everypony already knows how you-" However before she could finsh Pinkie Pie intterupted her. "Twilight! You promised Spike you wouldn't say anything. He trusts you. And losing a friend's trust is the fastest way to lose a friend forever!" "But"! Twilight tried to say only to be intterupted again. "Forever"! Pinkie exclaimed. Reiner just siged in respone. "Our lips our sealed". He said before looking down at Spike. "Though I'm pretty sure Rarity is gonna pick up on your feelings." He told the baby dragon. Bertholdt then looked back over at Rarity. "Rarity, are you absoultey sure Fluttershy was the only one who could do this". He asked. Rarity looked back over at Berthodlt. "Of course! She's absoultely perfect". Rarity replied as she looked around the room. "I can't thank you all for helping me, especially you Spike." Rarity stated. Spike just blushed and giggled. "Aw it's nothing". He replied. Rarity smiled. "Well since Apple Bloom was unable to help out like I wanted her too you were my next option". "Wait Apple Bloom's suppose to be here"? Asked Reiner Rarity nodded. Yes, but when I went to Sweet Apple Acres she, uh. Wasn't in the best of moods so I knew it was best not to bother her". "What do you mean"? Spike asked. "Just like with my Pinkie Sense those who live in Ponyvile long enough know that you shouldn't make Apple Bloom angry". Pinkie Pie replied. Fluttershy nooded in agreement. "That's right, Apple Bloom is very kind and caring towards other ponies, and creatures, but that filly can rip you in half if she wanted to". All of sudden the doors of Carousel Boutique flew open, and in walked a very fashinable looking earth pony stepped in. "I, Photo Finish... have arrived." She announed. With a smile on her face Rarity went up to Photo Finish in order to welcome the fashion photographer to her boutique. "Let me just say, what an honor!" However Photo Finish just ignored Rarity, and walked right by her. "That seemed kind of rude". Reiner muttered. "I'll say". Twilight nodded in agreement. Photo sat down infront of the stage which Fluttershy was standing on. She clapped her hooves, and one of her assiatants came over and set up her camera. "We begin... now!" She exclaimed. Rarity went up to Fluttershy. "Attitude and pizzazz!" Rarity said. "Yes! Show Photo Finish something." The fashion photograher demanded. Fluttershy started to go into one of the poses Rarity had told her to do, however Photo Finish didn't seem to like how Fluttershy was standing. "No"! she shouted causing Fluttershy to flinch. That pose however Photo Finish did like. "Yeees." She said in awe. Fluttershy then went for another pose only for Photo Finish to exclaim. "No"! Again causing Fluttershy to flinch. But Photo seemed to like that. "Yeees". She admired. Finally Fluttershy tried for a third pose, but Photo Finish once again said. "No"! And once again Fluttershy flinched. "Yeees". Photo Finish said. She took a few more pictures before finally stopping. "Enough"! she exclaimed before backing her things and leaving. "She hardly took any pictures". Twilight acknoledged". "Yeah, did she not like what she was shown"? Bertholdt asked in confusion. Fluttershy got of the stage, and looked sadly at Rarity. "I'm so sorry. I tried my best." Fluttershy apologized. Rarity sighed and helped Fluttershy get out of the dress. "Well, the headdress is too big for you and cape had too much sparkle. I can't believe I ever thought I could impress her." She lamented. However just then Photo Finish came back over to the stage. " It seems that I, Photo Finish, have found the next fashion star here in Ponyville." She stated shocking everyone in the room accept her assiantants. "Really"? Asked Rarity. Photo Finish nodded her head. "Yes. Really. And I, Photo Finish, am going to help her to shine all over Eqvestria. Tomorrow, a photo shoot in ze park. I go"! She informed before she and her assiantants dashed out of Caroseul Botique. As soon as they left Rarity turned to her friends and squeled with excitment. "Did you hear that? I am going to "shine all over Equestria". She exclaimed. "That's wonderful Rarity". Twilight stated. "It is indeed, I was so worried I had ruined everything". Fluttershy replied. "Oh, never. I knew you'd be perfect." Rarity told her as she giggled exictedly. The next day Rarity, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt were getting ready in the park, waiting for Photo Finish to arrive. As Rarity was looking for something Fluttershy could wear, the yellow pegagus spoke to Bertholdt. "I know I was able to help Rarity get noticed by Photo Finish, but I'm still very nevrous". She said. Bertholdt nodded in agreement. "I understand that feeling. You know Reiner and I used to be soldiers right"? He asked. Fluttershy nodded her head. "Well, whenever we had to go on a mission I would always get nervous, but Reiner would always be there to help me get over my nerves, and I'm going to be here to help you". Fluttershy smiled. "Thank you Bertholdt, I just knew I could count on you". She smiled, then she looked back up at him. "Still though I can't believe you and Reiner had to be soldiers at such young ages, aren't you only 16"? She asked. Bertoldt nodded "Acutally I've been a solider since I was seven". He replied. Fluttershy gasped. "Since you were seven? Did all this happen in your hometown"? She asked. Bertholdt nodded. "I hope you don't mind me asking, but why would you want to return there if It makes children into soliders"? Fluttershy asked. "Well I will admit there are somethings that aren't all that great in my hometown, but my family is there, listen there are things I want to tell you Fluttershy, but now isn't the right time, but one day I promise I will tell you everything about me". Bertholdt replied. Fluttershy just nooded in agreement. She new both Reiner, and Bertholdt were hiding something from everypony, but she never talked about her suspicions in front of them. The only others who also knew Reiner, and Bertholdt had a secret were Twilight, and Apple Bloom, but all three of them agreed per Twilight's suggestion that the two of them had a right to their secrets, and if they wanted to share them they would, and that nopony else should pressure them into revealing anything they don't want to. As the two of them kept talking, Rarity was still looking for something for Fluttershy to wear during the photoshoot. "No, no, no." She muttered to herself before finally finding something. It was a white sparkle shirt, and pants with blue trims running along parts of it. Rarity pulled Fluttershy behind the curtin and put her inside of it. Once Fluttershy was in the clothes she came out as Rarity smiled. "Photo Finish is going to love it. Everypony is going to love it!" The unicorn beamed. Fluttershy smiled. "Oh, I am so excited for you. Just don't forget us little ponies when you become the most famous designer in all of Equestria." she replied. "Yeah, well all be rooting for you". Bertholdt stated. "Don't worry, I'll never forget any of you, you're all my best friends". Rarity reassured them. Soon Photo Finish arrived being carried by two stallions. "Put me down here". she demanded. As soon as she was let down Photo Finish took one look at what Fluttershy was wearing. However her reaction was the exact opposite of what Rarity, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt were expecting. "Oh, nonononononono. The model should be in something simple! Something inspired by... the nature!" Photo Finish stated. Rarity looked at her in confusion, but quickly caught herself. "That's just what I was thinking. Um... give me a moment and I'll, uh, put a little something together." She promised. However Photo Finish just stared at her. "Yes... that will not be necessary." She told Rarity. "What"? Bertholdt asked in confusion. "But... but... how are you going to help me "shine across Equestria" if I don't design something new for these pictures?' Rarity stammered. Photo Finish turned around and looked directly at Rarity. "I am not going to help you shine across Equestria. I am going to help her shine. She is my star". She said pointing at Fluttershy who looked up in shock. Photo Finish then turned back to Rarity. "You go"! She demanded. Rarity, and Bertholdt then watched as Fluttershy was forcabliy dragged away by Photo Finish's assaisants. Rarity didn't want to show it, but her world was shattered. It seemed like all her dreams had been taken away from her just like that. Her heart was broken. Once Fluttershy was forced into another dress she went back over to Rarity and Bertholdt. "I can't Rarity". She told them. Rarity however turned and looked at Fluttershy. "Oh, but you must, Fluttershy. Photo Finish wants to make you a star. This is the opportunity of a lifetime. I know we were both hoping it would be my lifetime, but nonetheless you can't throw away this chance. You must do this for me. You must. You must! You must!" She insited. Fluttershy sighed, and nodded. "Okay, but only if you come with me Bertholdt". She said to the stalion. Bertholdt nodded his head. "Uh, yeah sure". He replied. Fluttershy smiled in relief just as Photo Finish called out to her. "Floottershy! It is time to make... the magics!" Fluttershy turned to Rarity once more, and the unicorn mare nodded her head. Fluttershy sighed, and walked over to Photo Finish, Bertholdt following close behind. "Oh, wunderbar! You are like a delicate flower. So much more alluring without all those sparkles und feathers." Photo Finish admired. As they left Rarity looked down, and left the park. Back at Carousel Botique Rarity was in her room sewing herself a black cloak just as Spike, Reiner, Twilight, and Pinkie Pie came in with big smiles on their faces, each of them exicted to know how the meeting with Photo Finish went. "How'd it go? How'd it go?" Pinkie Pie asked eagerly. "It didn't. Photo Finish wanted to work with Fluttershy, not me." Rarity explained. Hearing that the four friends looked sadly at Rarity. "Oh, Rarity. I'm so sorry." Twilight replied. "Is there anything we can do for you"? Reiner asked. "I just vant to be alone right now." Rarity answered as she draped the hood of the cloak over her head, and turned away. Twilight, Reiner, and Pinkie Pie all tried to go towards her, only for Spike to stop them. "You heard her. She vants to be... alone." He said as he began to push the three of them out the door. He then tried to turn around on go back towards Rarity only for Twilight to drag him back out by the tail. Spike looked up them with a nervous grin as they glared at him. "What? I didn't think she meant alone alone." He stated with a sheepish grin on his face. At another location Fluttershy was being fitted for a new dress, and makeup by Photo Finish's assistants. Bertholdt was waiting outside the room passing back and forth. Photo Finish had allowed for him to come along, but he wasn't allowed in the room when Fluttershy was getting fitted. Back inside the room one of the make up artist put some blush on Fluttershy's face. Photo Finish stared intently for a bit. "Too much blush". She stated. So the blush was taking off, but now Photo Finish thought it was too little now. "Not enough". She said. So it was but back on. "Too much". She said. So it was taken off. "Not enough Said. So it was put back on. "Perfect". Photo Finish stated finally satisfied. Fluttershy however wasn't satisfied or happy, and with all the dust that had been blown into her face caused her noise to tickle. "Ah... Aaah...Choo" Fluttershy let out a small sneeze. "Oh, yes! Even her schneezes are graceful. Now go! How do you feel? Excited? Overjoyed? Thrilled beyond your wildest dreams"? Photo Finish asked. "N... nervous." Fluttershy replied confusing Photo Finish. "Nervous? Dun be ridiculous. You're only facing a large crowd of ponies who will be watching your every move and silently judging you." She told Fluttershy which made the pegagus even more nervous. All of a sudden music began playing. The show was beginging. A smile formed on Photo Finish's face. "Your cue! Now go!" As she shoved Fluttershy out onto the stage. Fluttershy fliched at all the flashing lights, and pictures being taken of her. She scaned the area, and breath a sigh of relief when she spotted Bertholdt in the distance watching her. Just knowing he was was there made Fluttershy feel a little better. She took a deep breath, "You can't let Rarity down. You must do this. You must. You must. You must." Fluttershy said to herself internly as she began to walk down the runway, and show off the dress she was wearing. After a few moments the crowd began cheering. "So graceful". One pony said. "So lovely". Said another. Even Hoity Toity was there. "So perfect for my new advertisement." He stated. Soon, Fluttershy was extremly famous, appearing on the front covers of every famous fashion magazine in Equestria. She was even given the red carpet at an event. However when Rarity tried to enter she was denied access which made her extremly frustrated. It seemed that everywhere Rarity went she saw Fluttershy's face. Even Applejack was selling Fluttershy merch at Sweet Apple Acers, and Rainbow Dash was flying overhead with a Fluttershy banner. Oh boy Rarity was getting peeved. Currently Publicly Available Information Equestra's fashion Magazines. Equestria's Fashion Magazines are a collection of Magaizens created in order to show the latest trends of fashion to ponies throught Equestria. Bertholdt sat in the hotel room that he and Fluttershy stayed in during her tour. He waited for what felt like hours when the door opened and Fluttershy came in. "How'd it go"? Bertholdt asked. Fluttershy didn't say anything. "Did everything work out okay"? Bertholdt asked again. Again no response, Fluttershy just slowly began walking towards the bed that Bertholdt was sitting on. Once she got there she climbed up onto it, and hugged Bertholdt who was taken aback for a moment. He was about to say something when he felt Fluttershy begin to tremble. Now Bertholdt was really confused, and nervous, he had no idea what to do in this type of situation. "Fluttershy are you okay, do you want me to get something"? He asked as he was about to get up only for Fluttershy to hold him tighter. "No"! She whimpered. "No? Well what do you want me to do"? Bertholdt asked. "Just, stay like this. Please". Fluttershy replied as she clung to Bertholdt. Bertholdt knowing Fluttershy was defenitly overwhelmed by all the stress of being famous did what Fluttershy asked of him, and held her in his hooves, all while remembering one of his old friends from the 104th cadets who hugged him in a simlar way, and said the exact sames words. "Just, stay like this. Please". "Sasha". Bertholdt murrmed to himself. "Don't worry Fluttershy, I'll stay by your side no matter what". Bertholdt reassured the yellow peagus, who just squeaked in response. A few days after Fluttershy's tour across Equestria she was back in Ponyville. However she was trying to stay low due to how famous she was now. She really hated all the attention she was getting, and hoped that nopony besides her friends would see her. However Fluttershy's prayer's went unanswered when she was spotted by someone. "It's Fluttershy"! They exclaimed. Immeditdely Fluttershy began running from her "Fans". who began chasing after. Fluttershy turned a corner only to be blocked by ponies with cameras who began to surrond her. She tried to fly away, but there were pegasi in the sky too. Fluttershy really hated being a model. She had to think quickly, and thought of the only place she could go in order to escape. Carosuel Boutique. Rarity, who was busy working on a dress looked up. When she saw Fluttershy she tried to force a smile. "Wow. Look how popular you are. I'm so excited for you. You must be having the best time ever." She said. "Oh, yes. Best time ever..." Fluttershy replied with a hint of sarcasam in her voice that Rarity didn't noticed. Just then Photo Finish bursted into Carousel Boutique. "Floottershy! I have been looking for you everywhere. We have the thing at the place". She exclaimed. "I'll see you at the spa? Our usual time?" Fluttershy asked as she was dragged away. "Of course! I can't wait to hear all about the... "thing at the place". Rarity replied still with that forced smile on her face. However once they were gone Rarity's smile immeiditly turned into an angry scowl. "I'm the one who should be mobbed by strangers wherever I go." She groaned. Just then the door to her shop burst open once again. "Welcome to Carousel Boutique!" Rarity exlcaimed with a smile two Bon Bon, and Berry Punch who had just come in. "Is she still here? We heard Fluttershy was here." Bon Bon said excitedly. Rarity frowned. "Oh you just missed her". She replied, but then went back into a customer service smile. "But you're still in luck. I'm having a huge sale on some of my best designs". Rarity informed the two of them. However Bon Bon, and Berry Punch just stared at Rarity. "And you are...?" Bon Bon asked "Rarity of course". Rarity replied. "Never heard of you". Bon Bon stated "Yes you have bitch". Rarity said in her head. However she just stared at the two of them before sighing. "If you're not going to buy anything then leave". Rarity told the two of them who promptely left just as Reiner, and Twilight walked in. "Hey Rarity, you okay"? Reiner asked. Rarity sighed. "Not really". she stated. "Well do you want to talk about it"? Asked Twilight. Rarity gave the two of them a small smile. "Yes, and I know the perfect place". Rarity, Twilight, and Reiner all walked into a cafe downtown. "Rarity, is there a spefic reason why you wanted to come to this cafe"? Reiner asked. Rarity just nodded. The three ponies walked into the cafe, and were greeted by Apple Bloom who was wearing a waitress uniform. Reiner, and Twilight were shocked to see her, but Rarity just smiled. Hearing the door open Apple Bloom turned to face the ponies who just walked in. "Hello, and welcome". She stopped when she saw who it was. "Oh, Miss, Rarity, Miss, Twilight, and Mr. Braun, what brings you here today"? Apple Bloom asked. "Apple Bloom, you work here"? Reiner asked. Before Apple Bloom could reply Rarity spoke up "Hello Apple Bloom darling table for three please". Rarity simply stated not answering Apple Bloom's question. Apple Bloom just nodded. "Of course, right this way". She replied. Apple Bloom led the three of them to a booth at the end of the cafe, and placed down three menus in front of them. She then turned to Reiner. "To answer your question Mr. Braun, yes I do work here, but only on Fridays and Satardays". She replied. "Why"? Asked Twilight. "Well the farm has been low on money, so Applejack suggested that I get a part time job to help out, and also to get my mind off of somethings". Apple Bloom replied. "What kind of things"? Twilight asked. "That's. Personal". Apple Bloom replied. "Come on I'll show you three to your booth". she as she led Twilight, Applejack, and Reiner to the end of the cafe, and gave them each menus. "Here you are, and somepony with be with you very shortly". Apple Bloom replied, she then turned to Rarity. "Oh, and Miss Rarity, I heard about what happpend with Photo Finish". Apple Bloom said sadly. "Oh it's alright, I'll mange". Rarity replied. Apple Bloom smiled, and walked away to help other customers. Meanwhile with Fluttershy, Bertholdt, and Photo Finish at another photo shoot. Fluttershy was standing a few feet back next to Bertholdt as Photo Finish spoke with the photographers. "Obviously I, Photo Finish, am thwilled to have found her." She told them. Meanwhile Fluttershy just stood still looking nervous, somehting Bertholdt noticed. "What's wrong Fluttershy"? he asked. "I'm suppose to be meeting Rarity at the spa soon". Fluttershy replied. "Alright then go tell Photo Finish that". Bertholdt told her. "Okay". Said Fluttershy, and she walked up to Photo Finish. "Um... Photo Finish?" She tried to get her attention, but Photo Finish was too busy to notice. "I only need to point and shoot, and I capture... the magics!" Photo Finish told the repoters. Finally she was done, and Fluttershy went up to her. " Photo Finish, I'm so sorry to interrupt. It's just that I'm running late." Fluttershy said. This caused Photo Finish to gasp in shock. "How could I have forgotten?!" She exclaimed. Fluttershy smiled thinking Photo was going to let her go. She looked back at Bertholdt who smiled back at her. Fluttershy then started to make her way over to Bertholdt only for Photo Finish to grab her. "Your appearance at the ballet opening! Everypony who is anypony will be there." Photo Finishe exclaimed causing both Fluttershy, and Bertholdt to gasp in shock. "Oh, actually I'm supposed to be meeting my friend..." Fluttershy tried to say, but Photo Finish wasn't listening. "We go"! She stated as she led Fluttershy away. "Ms. Finish hold" Bertholdt tried to speak up only for Photo Finish to shoot him a glare. "You hush Mr. Hoover you aren't even suppose to be here, but my star begged me to let you come along". Photo Finish said making Bertholdt shut his mouth. "Damnit Reiner, you should be here too". Bertholdt thought to himself. Back at the spa house Rarity, and Twilight sat in the bath. Reiner had decieded to go back home after they left the cafe. "My hooves are getting positively pruney, I've been waiting here so long. Obviously Fluttershy's just too busy with her new career to spend time with her best friend." Rarity complained. "I'm sure she just got tied up." Twilight said trying to reassure Rarity. "Of course she did. She's a big bright shining star! I wish that star would burn out." Rarity said bitterly. Twilight gasped in shock after Rarity said that. "Rarity! Fluttershy is your friend." She scolded. "I know, I know. And I should be happy for her, but instead I'm just... jealous! Oh, please promise you won't tell her I feel this way. Please, please, pleasepleaseplease!" Rarity begged. Twilight nodded in agreement. "You have my word. Losing a friend's trust is the fastest way to lose a friend." "Forever"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed suddendly apperaing out of a bowl of cookies. "What the, how did you"? Twilight began to ask. "Don't question it"! Pinkie Pie replied glaring at Twilight as she disappered back down into the bowl. A while later Rarity got herelf fitted into a new gown, and went out to show it to Twilight. "Wow! You look great!" Twilight complemted. Rarity simply smiled. "Fluttershy may be the one who's famous, but that doesn't mean I have to stop looking fabulous." She stated before taking her leave. Just then, as soon as Rarity was gone Fluttershy came rushing in. "Rarity! I'm so sorry I'm... " She began, only to see that Rarity wasn't there, only Twilight. "Oh no. She's already gone, isn't she?" Fluttershy realized. "Sorry". Twilight replied trying to comfort her. "Oh, I can't believe this. I am so frustrated, I could just scream." Fluttershy groaned. She then took a deep breath, and let out a very tiny squeek. "Feel better"? Twilight asked. "No. Fluttershy replied. She then looked up at Twilight. "Can I tell you something?" She asked. "Of course Twilight replied. "You swear not to tell Rarity"? Fluttershy asked. "I promise". Twilight answered. "Pinkie Promise"? Fluttershy asked again. "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my Ooowwwww!" Twilight yelped after she poked herself in the eye. Once Fluttershy knew she could trust Twilight she began to tell Twilight her true feelings. "I don't like being a model. No, I hate being a model. All this attention is awful, just awful. And I'm only doing it because Rarity told me I must. I must! I must! I must". Fluttershy explained. "Oh, really? Well... If you wanna know the truth, Rarity..." Twilight was about to tell Fluttershy how Rarity was feeling when Pinkie Pie once to appear out of the bowl of cookies, and shake her head before sinking back down. "What were you about to say"? Fluttershy asked when Pinkie Pie appeared again. "Forever". Pinkie Pie whispered threatenligly to Twilight who turned back to Fluttershy. "Nothing". Twilight said with a nervous grin. Back in the main lobby Bertholdt sat with Reiner. "So how is Fluttershy handling being a model"? Reiner asked. Bertholdt sighed. "She defeintly doesn't like it, and neither do I. She's always surroned by ponies who get in her face, and I'm not allowed to be near her at any point during her photoshoots. I think the only reason she hasn't had a full on breakdown is because she know's I'm there with her, and giving her moral support." "If she doesn't like it then she needs to learn to stand up for herself, and tell Photo Finish she doesn't want to be a model. The same goes for you Bertholdt". Reiner stated. "What are you talking about"? Bertholdt asked. "You're physically the most powerful of the Nine Titans, the only one that can match the Colossal is the Founder. That being said you've never once truly utitlized the Colossal Titan's full potienal, and you've always had to reley on either me, or someone else telling you to do something before you actually do it. Face it Bertholdt, both you, and Fluttershy need to learn to be more asseritve." Reiner stated. Bertholdt looked down for a few minutes before speaking again. "How's Rarity doing". He asked. "I think she's handling it pretty well, but it's clear she jealous of Fluttershy's fame". Reiner replied. "Ah". Bertholdt said as he looked down again. He stared off into space for maybe about two minutes before sighing. "I wanna go home". He muttered. "Me too Bertholdt. Me too." Reiner replied. Soon Fluttershy, and Twilight came into the lobby, and walked over to the two warriors. "Hey girls, how are you doing". Reiner asked. "Were okay, but now I'm not sure what to do". Twilight admitted. "I'm actually kind of hungry". Fluttershy stated. "What about any of you"? She asked the others. "Oh, Reiner and I ate not too long ago so were good." Twilight replied. "Oh okay, how about you Bertholdt"? Fluttershy asked. Bertholdt's face flustered red. "Uh, you and me, going to a reasturaunt, together"? He stammered to which Fluttershy nodded. Bertholdt turned to look at Reiner, who nodded his head. Bertholdt then turned back to Fluttershy. "Yeah sure". He said. Fluttershy beamed happily and hugged Bertholdt. "Great then let's go". She exclaimed. Reiner, and I will hide you so you don't get mobbed by anypony out there". Twilight told them. "That would be very helpful". Fluttershy stated. Soon Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy left the spa house. Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, And Pinkie Pie were standing around Fluttershy in order to hide her from the other ponies, who were very clearly looking for her. Soon they arrived at the Cafe where Apple Bloom worked. Twilight walked up to the door, and went inside. She then walked over to the front where a worker was waiting. "Hello, and how can I help you"? He asked. "I'd like to speak to Apple Bloom". Twilight replied. "Sure wait one moment". The worker replied. Twilight waited for about three minutes when Apple Bloom came up to her. "Hi Twilight, you needed to see me"? She asked. Yeah, I need you help". Twilight then whispered the situation into Apple Bloom's ear. Apple Bloom then nodded, and turned to the worker who had greeted Twilight. "We have a code FP". She informed him. The stalion nodded his head, and pulled out a raido. "Code FP". He repeated into the raido. "On it". Said a female voice. Apple Bloom then turned to Twilight. "Come on, let's go". She replied. Twilight looked at Apple Bloom in confusion. "What's going on". She asked. "A code FP is a protocal this cafe uses whenever a famous pony comes in". Apple Bloom explained. "They must some kind of system they use when a famous pony comes". Twilight thought to herself as she followed Apple Bloom outside. Once outside Apple Bloom looked to see that the cost was clear. She then motioned for Fluttershy, and Bertholdt to come inside. Once the two of them were inside they were met by Apple Bloom, and an Elder stalion who appeared to be in his mid fifties. "Good afternoon Mr. Stanley". Apple Bloom greeted. "Come this way". Mr. Stanley said with a warm smile on his face. The four ponies walked to a door, and the back end of the cafe. Once there Apple Bloom opened it, and all of them walked down the stairs. Once down the stairs Fluttershy, and Bertholdt were amazed to find themselves in a very luxarious room. "What is this place"? Asked Bertholdt. "This is a private dining area built in for famous ponies who don't want to be bothered when they are eating". Mr. Stanley explained. "It's beautiful". Fluttershy stated. "I'll say". Bertholdt replied nodding in agreement. "When was this built"? Fluttershy asked. "About fifty years ago when a famous singer came to this resturaunt, and was swarmed by a bunch of ponies. She was unable to eat her meal, and ended up leaving. So this area was bulit so something like that wouldn't happen again". Apple Bloom explained. Mr. Stanley then turned to Apple Bloom. "Considering they are your friends I'll let you handle this, after all you are my most trusted employe". He explained. "Thank you sir". Apple Bloom replied as Mr. Stanley left. After about an hour and a half Fluttershy, and Bertholdt left the cafe, and met up with Twilight, and Reiner. "Hey you two, how was it". Reiner asked causing Bertholdt to glare at him embarrsed. Fluttershy however just smiled. "It was wonderful! So quiet, and peaceful, it was just amazing to not be mobbed by so many ponies". She explained. "Well I'm glad you enjoyed yourself". Twilight replied. Later the four ponies were walking across town, with Fluttershy wearing some sort of disguse as a way to hid herself. After walking around in silence for a few minutes Twilight finally broke the silence. "I was just thinking. If you really don't like being a model, you could always quit." She suggested. "That's right, just tell Photo Finish you don't wanna do this anymore". Reiner replied. Fluttershy however shook her head. "Oh, no. I could never do such a thing. Rarity would be devastated." But Rarity Told me". Twilight began only to stop when Pinkie Pie appeared from a basket of apples and glared at her making Twilight shut up real quick. Pinkie Pie watched continued to watch Twilight as she took a bite out of the apple in her hoof. Once she did though her angry scowl instantly turned into a happy smile. "Mmm... Juicy!" She excalimed happily. "Uhhhhhh!" Twilight groaned. "What were you talking about eairler Twilight"? Bertholdt asked. "Oh, um nothing". Twilight replied. She smiled sheepishly at the others. "Oh, if only all these ponies didn't like me so much. Photo Finish wouldn't want me to model anymore. She'd find somepony else with... the magic!" Fluttershy stated. Twilight looked down. "I guess you're right". she replied. Then all of a sudden an idea flew into her horn. "You're right. You're right, you're right, you're right!" Twilight exclaimed as she jumped around exictedly. However in doing so she knocked off Fluttershy'd disguse. "It's Fluttershy". Said a pony. And soon enough Fluttershy was swarmed by a crowd. So Reiner, Twilight, and Bertholdt had to drag her away. "So what are you planning Twilight"? Reiner asked. "Simple. Fluttershy there's no way you could ever make yourself look bad, but if I use my magic to make you look bad instead, then Photo Finish won't want you to model anymore". Twilight replied. "Really, you'd do that for me"? Fluttershy asked. Twilight nodded. Fluttershy threw herself onto Twilight and gave her a big hug. "Oh thank you thank you thank you"! She exclaimed. "Can't breath". Twilight choked as Fluttershy hugged her. Twilight went over to Sugarcube Corner, and told Pinkie Pie her plan to use her magic to make Fluttershy look bad. "Don't you see? On her own, Fluttershy could never do something unattractive. But if I used my magic to help her do something unattractive at her next fashion show, no one will ever want her to model again. And if Fluttershy no longer has to be a model, Rarity will no longer have to be jealous of her. And I'll no longer have to keep their secrets! It's the perfect plan"! Twilight explained. She then ran up and got real close to Pinkie Pie. "You can't tell anyone about it. Promise me you won't tell anyone?" She asked. Pinkie Pie responed by zipping her lips, and then doing some weird movements which only proceeded to confuse Twilight. "So, do you promise or not"? Twilight asked. "Uh, yes! Obviously, that's why I zipped my mouth closed, then locked it with a key, then dug a hole, then buried the key, then built a house on top of the hole where I buried the key, then moved into the house on top of the hole." Pinkie Pie explained. "Of course you did". Twilight muttered. The next day Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt and Fluttershy stood behind the stage of another one of Fluttershy's shows. A huge crowd was waiting to see Fluttershy in anticpated exictment. Fluttershy saw this, and gulped nevously. She turned to face Twilight. "You really think it'll work?" Fluttershy asked. Twilight nodded with a smile. "They love you for being you. So all I have to do is make you not be you. Just leave it to me." She replied with confidince just as music began playing. "Looks like it's starting". Bertholdt pointed out. "I hope this works". Reiner stated. Back outfront Rarity came into the show wearing one of the dresses she made. "Guess it's time to see what all the fuss is about". She murmered as Fluttershy stepped out onto the stage. Fluttershy took a few steps as Twilight peeked from behind the curtain. She then lit up her horn, and made Fluttershy trip. The audiance, Photo Finish, and Rarity all gasped in shock as Twilight made Fluttershy's body do all sort of strange and unnattractive movements. Then Twilight made Fluttershy pick her nose. "Really"? Reiner asked. "She has to look as unnattractive as possible so Photo Finish won't want her to model anymore". Twilight replied. Reiner just sighed as Twilight continued. Rarity looked on from afar. At first she found it quite amussing as Fluttershy began to act like a dog, but then she started to look concerned as the other ponies we're look at her friend in disgust. "Oh no". She whispered in fear. Finally Fluttershy began to bray like a donkey, and that was the final straw for the audiance. "Get her off the stage". Golden Harverst exclaimed. "She's an embarrassment to all things fashion!" Stated Lemon Hearts as the crowd started booing. Fluttershy appeared to look sad, but secretly she was happy that everyone now hated her. "I, Photo Finish, have made a terrible mistake!" Photo Finish exclaimed which made Fluttershy even more happy. "It worked". Bertholdt stated excitedly. However Rarity couldn't stand to hear her friend being booed at. Even though she was jealous of all the fame and attention Fluttershy was getting Rarity felt she had to do something, so she did. "Bravo! I say bravo!" She cheered confusing everyone. "Bravo? Who could possibly say bravo to that horrid display?" A pony named Lyrica Lilac asked in disbelif as Rarity kept on cheering. "Such attitude! Such pizzazz! She's invented an entirely new kind of modeling! Bravo!" "Who is saying this things"? Lilac asked. That was when another pony, Royal Ribbon spotted Rarity and gasped. "It's her. The unicorn in the gorgeous cape and headdress." She stated. Lyrica Lilac looked at Rarity, and admired her. "Now that is a pony who clearly knows a thing or two about fashion. Well, if that fabulous pony likes it, then I do too! Bravo!" She cheered, and soon the crowd was once again cheering for Fluttershy making her moan, While Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt groaned. Back inside Fluttershy's dressing room she was venting her frustrations to the other three. "This is awful. Just awful! Somehow I've become more popular than ever. Oh, I'm so frustrated I could just kick something!" She said as she gentely tapped a vase. "That make you feel any better"? Reiner asked. Fluttershy just sighed. "If only Rarity didn't want me to be a model". She complained. This proceeded to extremley Frustrate Twilight. "Ugh! But Rarity...!" Twilight quickly covere her mouth confusing the others. Just then Rarity burst into the room. "Fluttershy! Are you alright". She asked in concered. "Im great. I'm a super famous fashion model. Why wouldn't I be great?". Fluttershy lied with a fake smile on her face. This frustrated Twilight even more. "Because you ha.....! Again Twilight covered her mouth. "Twi you good"? Bertholdt asked. Twilight just nodded with sweat dripping down her forehead. "Out there on the runway, everyone was turning on you and... Oh... Oh, Fluttershy. It's so awful. I wanted them to." Rarity admited. "You did"? Fluttershy asked in confusion. "Of course she did! Because...!" This time Twilight shoved a bunch of fruit into her mouth. Rarity turned to Fluttershy, and finally admited how she was feeling. "I'm jealous! I wanted all the attention. And instead it was going to you. I even started hoping that you would do something silly so your modeling career would be over. But then, when it started happening, all I could think was how could I want you to fail at something you love so much?" She stated. "But... Fluttershy doesn't... Ugh"! Twilight ran over to a potted plant and burried her head inside. Now it was Fluttershy's turned to admit her feelings. "Love? Oh Rarity I hate being a model". She said. "You do"? Rarity asked. "More then anything". Fluttershy replied as Bertholdt walked up to the two of them nodding in agreement. "She comes back to the hotel in tears every single night". Bertholdt stated. Rarity stared at Fluttershy. She had been completly unaware of how negetively modeling was effecting her. "Oh Fluttershy if you didn't like being a model, then why did you keep doing". Rarity asked. "I was afraid if I quit, you'd be mad at me for not wanting to... "shine all over Equestria". Fluttershy stated as tears began to fill her eyes. Rarity walked over to Fluttershy, and gave her a big hug all while admiting her own feelings. "And I thought if I told you how jealous I was of your success, you'd think I was a terrible friend." Fluttershy gasped. "Never"! Rarity sighed. "All this time". "If we had just told the truth". Fluttershy stated. Rarity looked at Fluttershy and smiled. "I promise never to keep my feelings in secret again." She said. "Me too". Fluttershy agreed. "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." They both said in unison before laughing. Just then Photo Finish came into the room "You were brilliant. Brilliant! I've already got six photo shoots lined up for tomorrow alone." She told Fluttershy who just smirked. "I'm sorry, Photo Finish, but I don't think I'll be able to make any of them." She apologized. "Whaaat?" Photo Finish exclaimed. Rairty and Fluttershy just smirked, before high hoofing each other, "We go"! They cheered as they left followed by Berthodt, and Reiner leaving both a very confused Photo Finish, and very frustrated Twilight Sparkle behind. "Vat has just happend"? Photo Finish asked. As Twilight stuck her had out of the vase. "Spike has a crush on Rarity"! She exclaimed. Pinkie Pie then appeared in the mirror and sighed. "And you were doing so well". She said. Twilight then turned to Pinkie Pie with fury in her eyes. Pinkie Pie saw this, and gulped, before chucking nervously. Twilight then walked over, and grabbed a pipe off the wall. "Yikes"! Pinkie Pie yelped as Twilight began to chase her around town. The next day Fluttershy, Rarity, Apple Bloom, Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Spike were back at the spa. "Ah, now this is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon Fluttershy said while she sat in the spa tub. "Isn't it though"? Rarity replied from inside the steam bath. "I couldn't agree more". Apple Bloom stated from inside the mud pool. "I'm glad you too were able to work things out. She told Rarity, and Fluttershy". "Yep, in the end everything worked out". Bertholdt said. "Well, almost everything". Reiner replied as he turned over to Twilight who was resiting her letter to the princess. "Dear Princess Celestia, Being a good friend means being able to keep a secret. But you should never be afraid to share your true feelings with a good friend". Once she was done, she turned to Spike. "Did you get all that, Spike?" She asked. "No. I did not. I still can't believe you told someone about my secret feelings for Rarity." Spike stated angrily. Twilight gave him a small smile. "You're right. That was wrong of me, and I'm very sorry." She apologized. "Apology accepted." Spike Replied. Twilight smiled. "Now will you take down my letter to Princess Celestia"? She asked. "I would love to. But... I'm a little busy at the moment." Spike stated as he began to fan Rarity. Twilight just sighed. Preview Twilight, and her friends are headed to Applaloosa to visit Applejack, and Apple Bloom's cousin. However while on the way they encounter a heard a bufflo who don't want anymore apple trees planted in their territoty. Next Episode. Over a Barrel Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Fluttershy Louts Blossm Rarity Aloe Reiner Braun Twilight Sparkle Pinkie Pie Bertholdt Hoover Spike Apple Bloom Big Macintosh (Flashback) Photo Finish Hoity Toity Lyra Heartstrings Derpy Hooves Lemon Hearts Twinkleshine Applejack Rainbow Dash Sasha Braus (Flashback) Golden Harvest Shoeshine Minnuette Sweetie Drops Berry Punch Mr. Stanley Gala Appleby Daisy Goldengrape Cherry Berry Samatha Cheerlie Lyrica Lilac Royal Ribbon
Episode 28: Over a Barrel: Gala arc Part 21A train was chugging along the track. The Mane Eight, Spike, and Apple Bloom were on their way to the town of Applelossa to bring them a very important Apple tree that had been planted on Sweet Apple Acres. Applejack was inside the caboose of the train with said tree reading it a bedtime story. "And that's when the yellow birdie thought to himself, "Hmm. My favorite little tree isn't such a little tree anymore." So she sang her song, big and strong, and they all lived in that great, big tree happily ever after. The... end." Applejack smiled, and then started to tuck the tree in when Rarity walked in. "Applejack! Were you reading a bedtime story to... an apple tree?" She asked in disbelif. Applejack turned to Rarity and chuckled nervously. "Heh... uh... Well, ya know, bein' replanted in a whole new place is very upsettin' for a tree... and Bloomberg here is one of my favorites." She replied. Rarity started to complain just as Apple Bloom walked in. "No fair, Applejack! You've got a luxurious, private sleeper car for a tree, while I am crowded and cramped in the same car with all the other ponies. How am I supposed to get my beauty sleep?!" "But Bloomberg's the whole reason we're makin' this trip. He needs his rest so we can give him as a gift to my relatives in Appleloosa." Applejack argued. "Hmph! You talk about it as if it's your baby or something." Rarity countered. That made Applejack cross. "Who you callin' a baby?! Bloomberg's no baby"! Applejack snapped before turning to the tree. "Don't wet widdle Rarity make you all saddy-waddy. Bloomberg's a big and strong apple tree. Yes, he is. A-coochie-coochie-coo-coo-coo!" "It's widdle Rarity who's all "saddy-waddy"! Urgh!" Rarity groaned before turning to Apple Bloom, who looked like she was about to die of embarrsment after seeing Applejack do that with the tree. "Can you believe how Applejack is treating that tree". Rarity asked. Apple Bloom just sighed. As badly as she wanted the ground to open up and swallow her at that moment, she still understood how important Bloomberg was. "Forget it Ms. Rarity, like you said that tree basiclay Applejack's child, but you can't blame her Bloomberg is actually very special to our family." "How come"? Rarity asked. Apple Bloom sighed, and looked down sadly. Rarity instantly knew then that Apple Bloom was going to talk about her parents. "It was the last tree our parents planted before they passed. I remember Applejack promised Ma, and Daddy that she would take extra good care of it." Apple Bloom explained. Rarity didn't say anything. She just pulled Apple Bloom in, and gave her a hug. She now how hard it was for the little filly to talk about her parents, espiecaly after what happened to them. After a few moments Rarity let go of Apple Bloom. "Let's head back. She said. Apple Bloom nodded in agreement. That night, the train was still moving. Inside the passager coach Rarity was trying to get some sleep, but the others were so excited about the trip that they kept chattering. "Oh man, we're going fast! This is so exciting, I can't even wait!" Said Rainbow Dash. "Oh my goodness". Twilight replied with glee. "This is going to be amazing". Stated Reiner. "It's nice to visit new places". Berthold replied. "For crying out loud in the morning!" Rarity groaned as she burried her face under her pillow in order to drown out the noise. "I can't wait!" Fluttershy said. "Yeah, yeah! Oh, my gosh!" Said Rainbow Dash. Now the noise was starting to bother Spike who was also trying to sleep. "Do you guys mind? I was up early fire-roasting those snacks you're all eating, and I'm pooped!" He groaned Rainbow Dash smirked at him "Uh, speaking of, some of these popcorn kernels didn't get popped." She told him. Spike sighed. "Okay fine". He then blasted Rainbow Dash's bag with his fire breath completly destroying. "Good night"! Spike snapped as he went back to sleep. Twilight looked around nervously. "Uhh... maybe it's time we all got a little shut-eye. We've got a big day ahead of us tomorrow." She said. Reiner nodded in agreement. "She's right, we're going to need all the strength we need if were going to plant the tree tommorow". He stated. "AWWW". Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy all complained. "Oh don't be like that you three". Reiner stated. So Twilight turned out the candle, and the ponies tried to get some sleep. However something was bothering Rainbow Dash, and she couldn't sleep. "Pinkie Pie you up"? She asked. "Yes, are you". The pink horse repiled as she grabbed a candle and went over to Rainbow Dash who also had a candle. "If I was sleeping, how could I have asked you if you were up"? Rainbow Dash asked. "Oh right good point". Pinkie Pie stated. Rainbow Dash side, and spoke to Pinkie Pie. "When we get to Appleloosa, you think we'll have to carry that heavy tree all the way from the train to the orchard?" She asked. "What tree? You mean Bloomberg"? Question Pinkie Pie. "No, Fluttershy". Rainbow Dash replied. This confused Pinkie, because Fluttershy wasn't a tree, so she told Rainbow Dash this. "Fluttershy's not a tree, silly!" Pinkie Pie stated. Soon the conversation caught the attention of Twilight and Reiner who came over to see what the other two were talking about. "What's going on"? Twilight asked. "Dash think's Fluttershy's a tree". Pinkie Pie stated. "No I don't"! Replied Rainbow Dash sternley. "Did you say she was a tree"? Asked Reiner. "No. Well.. Yes. But not exactly–" Rainbow Dash tried to explain herself only for Twilight to intterupt her. "You know she's not a tree right"? She asked. "She's not a tree Dashie". Said Pinkie Pie. "I'd like to be a tree". Fluttershy replied joining the conversation. "You'd make a perfect cherry blossom tree, especialy since they grow pink flowers in the spring"? Bertholdt stated as he too joined the converstion. Finally Spike had had enough of the constant noise". "Oh for pete's sake"! He snapped. He then got up, and went into to the caboose where bloomberg was. The others all looked on in confusion over what happend. "Well that was kind of huffy." Twilight replied. "Huffy the magic dragon". Fluttershy snickered. Soon all of the started Giggling. Rarity who was also trying to sleep turned to them. "Would you all be quiet... now?!" She snapped. She was wearing a mud mask, and cucumbers in her eyes which made her alot more terryfing in the dark. Seeing that caused the others to scream, and Twilight quickly turned out the lights. Spike walked into the caboose. "Bloomberg, Bloomberg". he called. He wasn't expectin an answer, and was complety suprised when he heard a voice. "Spike"? The voice whispered. "Woah"! Spike gasped. "You can talk"? "No, it's me". Apple Bloom replied as she lifted her head from behind Bloomberg. "Oh, Apple Bloom I'm sorry, I had no idea you were in here". "I'm guessing you couldn't sleep in there either"? Apple Bloom nodded. "Yeah, but I can go back". Spike said. "No don't worry, there's plenty of room". Apple Bloom stated. This made Spike nervous. "But, I'm a boy, and you're a girl. Us sleeping in the same bed, wouldn't that"? Apple Bloom shushed Spike before he could finish. "Spike, in case you forgot there is a big tree in between us, so were not going to be right next to each other, so are you just going to stand there or what"? Apple Bloom asked sternly. Spike sighed. He was too tired to argue, so he climbed into the bed on the other side of Bloomberg. "Sorry, just letting you know that I tend to snore". Spike told Apple Bloom who just sighed. "That's fine, goodnight Spike". Apple Bloom said. "Goodnight Apple Bloom". Spike replied. The next morning the train was still moving along. Inside the caboose Apple Bloom woke up, she looked over, and saw Spike still asleep. Decieding not to wake him up Apple Bloom stepped outside to get some fresh air. Outside the sun shone high in the sky, Apple Bloom smiled as the wind blew in her hair, she then looked up at the sky. "Mama, Daddy I promise Applejack, Big Mac, and I will make you proud." She whispered as a tear left her eye though she quickly wipped it away. All of a sudden she saw what appeard to be a small dust cloud heading towards the train, and within the next few seconds the train was surronded by a herd of bufflo. Apple Bloom was amazed, she had never seen a bufflo before, and wanted to get to know them. "Hi". She tried to talk to them but they took no notice of her. Apple Bloom didn't mind, she wanted to tell Spike about the bufflo. She was about to go back in when BANG! The train shook, Apple Bloom looked and saw that the bufflo were attacking the train, specficly the couch where Twilight, and the others were. "Oh no, what are they doing"?! Apple Bloom asked in shock. She attempted to get back into the caboose when another WHAM knocked her off the train. Apple Bloom rolled, and tumbled down a hill, cuts, and bruises started to appear all over her body. Finally she landed with a thud, and blacked out. Meanwhile back on the train the others notice the herd too. "A bufflo stampede"! Twilight said in aww. "I wonder where they came from"? Asked Bertholdt. No one replied to his question. "I just love their accessories!" Rarity stated. The ponies all admired the bufflos, but soon they realized that they were getting closer, and closer. "They're getting pretty close to the train". Reiner pointed out. Then there was trouble. WHAM The bufflos slammed into the train knocking the ponies backward, and forward. "I want to speak to the manager"! Exclamied Rarity. Back in the caboose Spike had no idea what was going on. Suddenly two adult bufflo's stacked on top of each other, allowing for a calf to hop onto their backs. "Oooh, looky! Now they're doing tricks! Ooh! Ooh! Ooh! Now do a backflip!... Or... Just jump?" Pinkie Pie said in confusion as the little calf jumped onto the roof. "Hmm.. Something tells me this isn't a circus act." Rainbow Dash said as she flew up to confront the calf. "Hey there. Where ya headed in such a hurry? ". Rainbow Dash said as she appeared infront of the calf. The calf was shocked to see Rainbow Dash, but quickly jumped over her shocking the blue pegasus. Rainbow Dash quickly got over the intital shock and began to purse the calf. "Wow, you're pretty quick for someone so... bulky. No offense". She said before once again flying in order to slow the calf down. However the calf just dodged Rainbow Dash again. "I just wanna know–" She began to say only for the calf to dodge her again. Now Rainbow Dash was getting frustrated. "Hey! I'm talking to you– Whoa... Arrgggg... I got you now, you–" Rainbow Dash kept trying to get the little bufflo's attention, but she ended crashing into a sign and falling to the ground. Now that Rainbow Dash wasn't a problem anymore, the bufflo Calf uncoupled the cabosse, and whistled. Hearing her whistle the other bufflo ceased their assualt, and began to drag the caboose away, as Twilight, Reiner, Pinkie Pie, Bertholdt, Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy could only watch in horror as realization set in. "They've got bloomberg"! Cried Applejack. All of a sudden Spike, who had been awoken by the comotion appeared in the window. "Heeeelp!" Spike screamed. "And Spike"! Twilight shouted in horror as the train kept going further away. Rainbow Dash then came to and heard Spike scream for help. "Dragon-napping Spike, I'll show her". She said before grimcing in pain". "Ow". Back on the train the others were realing over what just happend. Reiner stared out the window, Applejack punched her pillow mutiple times, Rarity sat down in shock, Fluttershy cried, Bertholdt comforted Fluttershy, and Twilight pasted around. "What just happend"? Bertholdt asked. "Why did those bufflo attack us"? Fluttershy questioned. "I don't know, maybe the train got to close to their territory". Twilight answered. "If that's the case then why in Equestria did they take Spike, and Bloomberg"? Applejack asked. "You're right, if this was territorial behavior they would have stopped once they felt we were far away enough". Fluttershy replied. "For now we just need to get to Applealossa, and tell them what happend." Reiner stated. Everypony else nodded in agreement. "Now we know Spike has been taken by the bufflo, and Rainbow Dash most likely went after them so I wanna make sure everyone else is okay". Reiner stated. "I'm fine". Said Rarity. "Me too". Replied Bertholdt. "So am I". Twilight responded. "I'll survive". Fluttershy said meekley. "I'll be alright". Applejack said with a small smile. "Okay, I think everypony's accounted for". Twilight said when all of a sudden Applejack gasped. "Wait"! the farm pony exclaimed. She then did a headcount. "Applejack darling what ever is the matter"? Rarity asked. "Where's Apple Bloom"! She exclaimed. The other ponies gasped now realizing that the little filly was nowhere to be seen, it was then Bertholdt noticed something. "Pinkie Pie's gone too". He shouted. "What?! When did she dissappear"? Asked Rarity. Everyone once again sat around is shocked silence for a few minutes before Twilight spoke up. "Well I think it's safe to say that Pinkie Pie most likely went after Rainbow Dash, and Spike, with her being, well her". She said. Everyone appeared to agree with Twilight. "Well then what about Apple Bloom"? Fluttershy asked. "Maybe she was taken by the bufflo too". Twilight replied. "No way! She wasn't taken". Applejack stated. "How can you be so sure"? Asked Bertholdt. "Because there is no way Apple Bloom would have slept through any of that". Applejack replied. "Good point". Bertholdt said. "So then where is she"? Asked Rarity. "Maybe she got scared and is hidng"? Theroized Fluttershy. "No she would have shown herself by now". Applejack stated. Twilight thought for a moment, then she gasped in shock. "Oh no"! "What is it Twilight"? Asked Reiner. "What if, when the bufflo attacked Apple Bloom got knocked off the train"!? She exclaimed. Everypony gasped in horror thinking about that possiblity. Meanwhile back at the cliff she had fallen down Apple Bloom slowly awoke. Once she did, she felt an intense pain in her left ankle. She tried to get up, but the pain was too much, she just colosped to the ground. All of a sudden she felt the ground rumble, and soon four bufflo surrounded her. Apple Bloom was in too much pain to scream for help, and could do nothing as the bufflo lifted her onto their backs, and began to carry her away, and soon again she was out cold. Later Apple Bloom awoke to find herself on some kind of sheet in what appeared to be a tent. She groaned in confusion as she sat up, and looked around. "What happend"? She murmmered to herself as she tried to get a good understanding of her surroundings. She looked to her left, and spotted Spike sitting on what appeared to be some kind of chair made out of tree bark. When he saw Apple Bloom was awake, he went up to her. "Thank goodness you awake". He said with relief. "Spike? What happend"? Apple Bloom asked. "You were found in the middle of the desserted all dazed, and deliourous". Spike explained. Apple Bloom then remembered the bufflo, and how she was knocked off the train. "How'd I get here, and what are you doing here"? She asked. "Don't worry they brought us here". Spike told her. "Who's they"? Apple Bloom asked. "Them". Spike said as two bufflo came into the tent. When Apple Bloom saw them she instantly began to freak out. "WHAT THE HELL!" She screamed as Spike despertly tried to calm her down. "Apple Bloom relax". He said. Apple Bloom looked at Spike like he was crazy. "Relax? RELAX?! Spike they attacked the train for no reason!, They knocked me off of it, they're the reason why my leg is injured, and you're telling me to relax"?! Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Apple Bloom please, I know you're scared, and upset I was too when I was taken by them, but after they explained everything to me I understood." Spike explained. Finally Apple Bloom calmed down, and looked at Spike. "Okay, but only because I trust you". she said. Spike smiled, he was happy Apple Bloom trusted him. "Thank you Apple Bloom". He said before motioing her to look at the bufflo on the right. "Now he's a doctor, can you please let him look at your leg"? Spike asked. Apple Bloom thought for a moment. "Okay". She replied. The bufflo came up to the two of them, Apple Bloom was nervous. "I'm going to need to touch it, is that okay with you". The bufflo asked in a gentle voice. Apple Bloom nodded. The bufflo then went over, and gentle put his hoof on to Apple Bloom's injured leg. Apple Bloom had to bite her hoof to keep herself from screaming, but she let the doctor continue. "How is her leg"? Spike asked. "It's denfeintly broken, she'll need a splint, and help walking. As well as a visit to an actual pony doctor when she gets hoome". The doctor said. Spike nodded. It was then the other bufflo spoke up. "Come on, the chief wants to speak with you". He said. Spike, and the bufflo doctor both nodded, and Spike went to help Apple Bloom out of the tent. The four of them walked to a very big Bufflo with a large feather hat on his head. He stared directly at Apple Bloom who gulped nervously while Spike reassured her that everything would be okay. The bufflo then spoke. "I am Chief Thunderhooves". He boomed. Apple Bloom looked up at him with fear in her eyes. Chief Thunderhooves noticed this. "I see you are scared, and confused. I will explain everything to you. If you will allow that". He said. Apple Bloom nodded. "Yes sir". she said meekely. Chief Thunderhooves gave Apple Bloom a small reassuring smile, and began his tail. Currently Publicly Avalaibe Imformation Applelossa. A town founded by the Apple Family. It is known for it's very prosperticve apple orchard. Back with the others, the train finally arrived in Applelossa. Once it stopped Twilight, Applejack, Reiner, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Bertholdt all rushed off in hopes to find somepony who could help them. However they didn't get far as they were almost instantly intterupted by a yellow stalion in a cowboy coat, and hat with an apple cutie mark. It was Applejack's cousin Braeburn, and he was delighted to see them. "Hey there! Welcome ta A-A-ppleloosa!" He greeted them "Who's that"? Asked Bertholdt. "My cousin Braeburn". Applejack replied before turning to her cousin. "Braeburn, listen–" She tried to explain only for Braeburn to interupt her. "Cousin Applejack, mind yer manners, you have yet ta introduce me to your compadres! Shame on you!" He said. Applejack just groaned and tried to speak again. "Braeburn, listen, somethin' terrible's happened–" She tried to say, but was again intterupted. "Terrible is right, your train is a full seven minutes late! That's seven minutes less for you to delight in the pleasures and wonders of... A-A-A-ppleloosa! Boggles the mind, we settler ponies built all this in just the past year, don't it?! And as you can see, we have all of the finest comforts. Like horse-drawn carriages!" He said as he pointed to a stalion pulling a carage, and then stopping. "Okay, you pull now." He said. The door to the carage flew open, and an annoyed pony stepped out. "Aww we just switched". Said the passanger. "And those there are horse-drawn horse-drawn carriages." Braeburn said pointing to them. Applejack again tried to speak. "Listen, Braeburn, I– Oof!" Applejack yelped when Braeburn interupted her again. "And here's our local waterin' hole, the Salt Block." He said pointing to a building. The group looked to see the owner throw out an elderly stalion. "That's enough salt for you!" The owner shouted. "Can't I at least... get a glass of water?" The stalion asked. Braeburn then pointed to several more buldings. "Over there's the office of Sheriff Silverstar. And here's where we have our wild west dances! And here's where we have our mild west dances!" He said. "But, Braeburn, we–" Applejack tried to say again, but was once again intterupted as Braeburn dragged them the apple tree orchard. "And here's the most wonderful sight in all of... A-A-A-ppleloosa! Our apple orchard." "Braeburn"! Applejack tried to say. "First harvest should be any day now." Braeburn said. "Braebu". Applejack again tried to get his attention, but he interupted her again. "Good thing too!" He stated. "Brae". Applejack said now loosing her paticens. "Cause we need that grub to live on." Braeburn said. "BRAEBURN"! Applejack shouted. Now she finally had his attention. "Uh, yes cuz"? he asked meekely. Applejack sighed. "You have a very nice town an' all, but we have a hu-uge problem! Some of our friends are missin'! Apple Bloom is missing. She explained Braeburn gasped now suddendly relizing that the little filly wasn't with them. "I didn't even notice she wasn't here! What happend"? He asked. "A bufflo stampede"! Fluttershy replied. "Apple Bloom was knocked off the train"! Reiner exclaimed "They took Spike"! Rarity said "Rainbow Dash went after them". Twilight informed him. "And we don't know where Pinkie Pie is". Stated Bertholdt. "And we had an apple tree with us for your orchard, but they took that too!" Applejack finished. "Did you say, bufflo"? Braeburn asked. They all nodded, and Braeburn sighed. "Them buffalo, they want us settler ponies to take every single tree you see here off this land. They sure as hell don't want any new ones added in." He explained. "But why"? Asked Fluttershy. "Beats me. We put a lot of hard work into this land, so we can feed our town, our families, our foals! And now they're sayin' all these trees have to go? T'ain't fair..." Braeburn stated. Meanwhile in the desert Rainbow Dash was sneaking around behind some rocks. "Ooh, I can't wait to get my hooves on that little buffalo..." She mutterted to herself. Then she felt a wince of pain in her head. "Ow". She groaned before continuing on. " Nobody tricks Rainbow Dash and gets away with it." She stated. "Boo"! Pinkie Pie said suddendly appering infront of Rainbow Dash causing the pegagus to yelp in suprise. "YAH"! She cried before jumping up, and falling to the ground. "Pinkie Pie". Rainbow Dash softly scolded the pink earth pony. " Ah, ya caught me! Looks like I tricked you and didn't get away with it either! You're good." Pinkie Pie giggled. "Shhshh! What do you think you're doing?! You gotta get out of here!" Rainbow Dash told Pinkie. "I do"? Pinkie Pie asked in confusion. Rainbow Dash nodded. "You're gonna blow my cover". Rainbow Dash explained. "I am"? Pinkie Pie asked again in confusion. "I'm trying to save Spike!" Rainbow Dash yelled. Pinkie Pie gasped in delight. "Oh my gosh! So am I!" She exclaimed exciedtly. Rainbow Dash then got into Pinkie Pie's face, and began to loudly scold her. "And the more of us there are out here, the more chances of us getting". Rainbow Dash stopped, and looked up to see that both of them were surronded by angry Bufflo. "Caught". Rainbow Dash sighed. She then quickly step infront of Pinkie Pie in order to protect her. "Run, Pinkie, I'll hold 'em off. Save yourself!" She ordered. The bufflo began to charge at the two ponies when a voice shouted "Stop"! from behind them. The bufflo moved to the side to reavel Spike standing in the middle of the herd looking completey fine. "Dash, Pinkie, 'sup?" He asked as Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie looked on in confusion. Spike then turned to the bufflo. "Hey, no worries, I know those guys. They're cool." He told them "If you say so, Spike. Catch ya later, bro." One of the bufflo replied as the herd left. "What's going on"? Rainbow Dash asked in confusion. "Let's head back to their camp, I'll explain everything there". Spike replied as he started to head towards the camp with Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie following behind. Spike led the two of them into the bufflo Camp. "Wait here". Spike told them as he walked into a tent. "I wonder who's in there"? Pinkie Pie asked. "I don't know, but be ready for anything". Rainbow Dash whispered. Spike then came out supporting Apple Bloom who now had some kind of splint on her left leg. She looked up, and Smiled when she saw Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie. "Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie!" The filly said in delight. "Apple Bloom, What are you doing here"? Rainbow Dash asked. Pinkie Pie looked down, and noticed the splint on Apple Bloom. "Oh my gosh Apple Bloom, Your leg! You've been hurt"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Rainbow Dash noticed to. "What happend"? Rainbow Dash asked. "I fell of the train, and broke my leg". Apple Bloom explained. Spike, and Apple Bloom then sat by a fire. "Sit down, and will explain everything". Spike said. Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash did so. "So, when the Bufflo attacked the train I was knocked off, and sent tumbling down a small hill, That's how I broke my leg". Apple Bloom explained. "And it Seems they took me by mistake. And they feel awful about it too, poor guys. Fortunately, they totally respect dragons, and since Apple Bloom was injured because of their attack they treat both of us like honored guest." Spike said. Rainbow Dash eyed the food they were given, and pushed it away in digust. "Still don't like other Ponies very much though.". Spike stated. Rainbow Dash listend until Spike was finished. "Huh. Well, I still don't trust them. I say we turn tail and bail while we still–" She began to say only to stop when she saw Pinkie Pie happily munching the slop they were given. " Mmm! Before we finish eating? Are you loco in the coco?!" Pinkie Pie asked asked the bufflo calf from before came up with a bowl of gemstones, and what looked like some kind of cream. Pinkie Pie looked up at her. "Can I please have more of that mushy stuff, whatever it was?" Pinkie Pie asked. "Certianly". The calf replied before turning to Spike. "Mr. Spike you like gemstones right?" She asked. "Turquoise. Mmm!" Spike said in delight as he took the bowl, and ate them all in one bite. The calf then turned to Apple Bloom "Apple Bloom this cream is from a rare plant that grows in these woods, It will help ease the pain in your leg". She said. Apple Bloom nodded, and began to rub the cream on her injured leg. She was delightfully suprised by how good it felt. "Wow, it's really starting to feel better". Apple Bloom stated. Both Apple Bloom, and Spike then turned to Pinkie Pie. "Oh This here is Little Strongheart, and these are my friends Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash." Spike introduced the calf who. Rainbow Dash looked at Little Strongheart, and her eyes filled with rage. "You"! She yelled. Little Strongheart also remembered Rainbow Dash, but she had a look of fear in her eyes "You"? "That's it! We are outta here!" Rainbow Dash stated. But Little Strongheart stopped them. "Wait! Please accept my apologies for what happened on the train. We didn't mean for anyone to be hurt." She explained. "Yeah Right, just look what happened to Apple Bloom"! Rainbow Dash yelled. "Rainbow Dash!" Apple Bloom scolded. Rainbow Dash looked, and could see Little Strongheart's eyes filling with tears. Rainbow Dash sighed. "I'm sorry". She said. Little Strongheart wiped her eyes. "It's okay". She said, and then she began to explain. "We only wanted the tree. The settler ponies have overtaken the land and have planted an orchard all over it! Because of their thoughtlessness, we can no longer run over our traditional stampeding grounds." She told them. "Huh"? Both Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie said in confusion. "I think it's time they met Chief Thunderhooves." Spike said, and Little Strongheart nodded. (凸】♀】♂】←巨人 Plays) Soon they were all around a fire, and listening as Chief Thunderhooves began his tail. "Hmmh. We have a long and winding stampeding trail that we have run upon for many generations. My father stampeded upon these grounds, and his father before him, and his father before him, and his father before him, and his father before him, and–" "Father, I think they get it". Little Strongheart said. "Hmph. It is a sacred tradition to run the path every year. But this year, these... settler ponies, these... Appleloosans!" Chief Thunderhooves soon couldn't finish as he got too angry, so Little Strongheart continued. "They planted apple trees all over it without asking our permission." She explained. "Well that's not very nice. Right, Rainbow Dash?" Asked Pinkie Pie. Rainbow Dash turned away in a huff as Little Strongheart contiuned. "The ponies refused to move their trees, so we are stuck here, and it is not fair!" She said. Spike looked at Rainbow Dash, hoping she would understand. "See Rainbow, they had a good reason to take bloomberg". Spike said. Rainbow Dash still didn't respond. "Please Rainbow Dash, try to understand". Apple Bloom pleaded. All of a sudden Rainbow Dash turned around, a look of furry on her face. "I'll say they had a good reason! C'mon. We have some apple-pickin' Appleloosans to talk to!" She said. "The bufflo, Spike, Pinkie Pie, And Apple Bloom all smiled happy that Rainbow Dash agreed with them. Back in Applelossa the rest of the ponies were getting ready to head out into the bufflo's territorty in order to find Spike, Apple Bloom, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash. "Ow"! Rartiy yelped as Applejack yanked on her haraness. "Gentely Please". Rarity whined. "Sorry, Rarity, but our friends are out there and we have ta' be ready for a long hike into buffalo territory if we're gonna save 'em! Let's go!" Applejack Said. The ponies all started to head out when Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie appeared infront of them. "Hi, guys!" Pinkie Pie greeted. Fluttershy then leaped onto Pinkie Pie, and gave her a big hug. "Pinkie! We're so glad you're safe." She said. All of them expressed their realif that Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash were safe. That was until both Applejack, and Twilight notice something. "Wait a second, where's Apple Bloom"? She asked. "And Spike"? Twilight also asked. "Don't worry, we're fine". Spike's voice called out from the distance. The two of them had taken a little more time to catch up since Spike had to help Apple Bloom do to broken leg which Applejack saw and immediately rushed over. "Oh my gosh Apple Bloom, your leg"! Applejack exclaimed. "It's broken, but I'm okay really Applejack". Apple Bloom reassured her sister. That seemed to calm Applejack down a bit. Meanwhile Twilight went up to Spike, and hugged him "I'm so glad you're okay". She cried in relief. "I'm glad you're okay too". Spike replied. "How did you guys escape the bufflo"? Asked Reiner. "We didn't". Said Pinkie Pie as Little Strongheart came out. The other ponies all gasped, and Applejack glared at the bufflo calf. "You". She snarled. Little Strongheart looked at Applejack in confusion. "Me"? She gulped. "YOU DID THIS TO MY LITTLE SISTER!" Applejack yelled, and with that she charged at Little Strongheart. "APPLEJACK STOP"! Apple Bloom screamed. Seeing the little bufflo in danger, Rainbow Dash quickly stepped infront of Little Strongheart in order to protect her. Applejack continued to charge when she was suddendly stopped. She looked to Twilight, Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt were all holding her back. "Let go of me". She demanded. "Applejack, you need to calm down". Reiner stated. "Don't you tell me to calm down Reiner Braun"! Applejack shouted. "Applejack please stop"! Apple Bloom begged. Hearing her sister's pleads Applejack finally calmed down, but she still glared at Little Strongheart. "Anyways". Rainbow Dash began. "We brought our new pal Little Strongheart here to explain to the Appleloosans why they should move the apple trees off buffalo land." Braeburn smiled, and walked towards Little Strongheart. "That information would be quite help–" However, before Braeburn could finish Applejack intterupted him. "That's weird. 'Cause my cousin Braeburn here wants to explain to the buffalo why they should let the apple trees stay." She said. "That would be a useful thing to–" Little Strongheart tried to say something, but she too was intterupted by Rainbow Dash. "The land is theirs! You planted the trees not knowing that. Honest mistake. Now, you just gotta move 'em, that's all." She stated. "Well... Uh". Braeburn started. "They busted their rumps here! An' now they're supposed ta bust their rumps again, just 'cause some buffalo won't stampede someplace else?" Applejack asked. "Plant the trees somewhere else"! Rainbow Dash demanded. "Where?! It's the only flatland around these parts!" Applejack pointed out. "The bufflo had it first"! Rainbow Dash stated. "The settler ponies need it to live" Applejack argued. "Come on Applejack". Rainbow Dash said. "You're being unresonable". Applejack spoke over her. "I put my hoof down". Rainbow Dash argued. Then the two of them stopped arguing, and turned to Apple Bloom who was being supported by Reiner, and Bertholdt. Applejack, and Rainbow Dash both ran up to the filly. "Apple Bloom"! They both shouted. "You've spent time with the bufflo, you heard their story, so please side with them". Rainbow Dash pleaded. "No Apple Bloom you have to side with the Appleloosens, after all they are our family". Applejack said. Apple Bloom just looked at them. All she could do was stammer. "I I uh". Fourtently for Apple Bloom Twilight quickly stepped infront of her. "Hey, don't you dare drag her into this". She told Applejack, and Rainbow Dash. "But". They both tried to say. "No! You're not going to force her to pick a side". Twilight stated firmly. Applejack, and Rainbow Dash both sighed, and Apple Bloom smiled, happy that Twilight defended her the way she did. Then Reiner spoke up. "Look, both the settlers and the buffalo have good reasons to use this land. There must be something we can do." He stated. "Hey! I have an Idea". Pinkie Pie suddendly said. Everyone just stared at her. Soon, everyone was standing infront of a stage. All of them were curiuos to see what Pinkie Pie was planning. Spike was also on the stage next to a piano. He started playing the piano as the curtian opened to reavel a claim. The claim opened up to reavel Pinkie Pie wearing some kind of strange dress. And of course she started singing. We may be divided But of you all, I beg To remember we're all hoofed At the end of each leg No matter what the issue Come from wherever you please All this fighting gets you nothing But hoof-and-mouth disease Arguing's not the way Hey, come out and play! It's a shiny, new day So, what do you say? You gotta share You gotta care It's the right thing to do You gotta share You gotta care And there'll always be a way through Both our diets, I should mention Are completely vegetarian We all eat hay and oats Why be at each other's throat? You gotta share You gotta care It's the right thing to do And there'll always be a way Throoooough! After the song was over, everyone just stared in silence. Twilight facepalmed, Reiner sighed, and Apple Bloom groaned. Spike was the only one who cheered. "All right, Pinkie Pie! That was fantastic! What a great song! Yeah, right on!" Chief Thunderhooves, and Sheriff Silverstar both shared a look before Chief Thunderhooves spoke up. "It appears that Sheriff Silverstar and I have come to... an agreement." He said. "We have". Sheriff Silverstar replied. Everyone smiled, and gasped. Maybe the song actually worked. But their smiles soon turned to frowns when the Bufflo Chief spoke again. "That was the worst performance we've ever seen." He stated. "Teh... Abso-tively!" The sheriff agreed. "Well, at least things can't get any worse". Bertholdt said trying to lighten the mood. "The time for action... Hmh... is upon us! Our stampede will start at high noon tomorrow. And if the orchard is still there, we'll flatten it... and the whole town!" Chief Thunderhooves said. Everyone gasped in shock after hearing the chief say that. "But Father". Little Strongheart tried to say only to be ignored. Sheriff Silverstar was unfaised by Chief Thunderhooves threat. "An' we Appleloosans say you'd better bring yer best, 'cause we'll be ready and waitin'." He responeded. "But Sheriff". Braeburn tried to say as well, but was also ignored. With that everyone left. "Oh... That wasn't the message of my song at all..." Pinkie Pie told Spike. Back with Reiner, Bertholdt and Apple Bloom, Reiner turned to Bertholdt. "You had to open your mouth, didn't you". He said. "Sorry". Bertholdt simply said. Reiner just sighed, and thought back to Chief Thunderhooves words. If the orchard is still there, we'll flatten it... and the whole town! They reminded him of other words spoken a long time ago. "If you ever distrub our peace, the millons of Colossal Titans inside the walls will flatten the entire world". "I swear to you, the two of you will pay. And it's gonna hurt". Reiner shuddered at the flashbacks of both the threat of the Rumbling, and Eren's words to him and Bertholdt back then. "Reiner, are you okay". Asked Bertholdt". Reiner looked at his friend. "Yeah, don't worry I'm fine". He replied. After a few more minutes of silence Apple Bloom spoke up. "What are we gonna do now"? She asked. "I don't know Apple Bloom, I don't know". Twilight responed. The citzens of Appleloossa were rushing about. They boarded up their windows, and build walls to protect themselves from the bufflo. Meanwhile Applejack, Reiner, Rarity, Fluttershy, Bertholdt, and Twilight could only stand and watch. "I want my kin ta' have what they need to live... but a storm's a-brewin' here. And I don't like the look of it." Applejack said. "We've just got to talk some sense into them before somepony gets hurt." Twilight stated. After she said that Reiner walked up to two ponies. "Listen, maybe if you would just reconsider, we–" He tried to say only to be ignored as the two ponies jumped into their house, and boarded up the windows. The others weren't having much luck either. "About the trees. Now if you could–". Rarity tried to say only to be ignored as well. Next the Applelossians were bucking apple trees, and loading them into barrels. Twilight walked up to one pony called Goldengrape. "If we could just sit down and talk we could–" She tried to say. But Goldengrape only growled in response. That did it. Twilight had tried her best to remain calm, but her anger was building up. The next thing Goldengrape knew, Twilight winded her hoof back, and punched him right into the face. Goldengrape stumbled backwards, and fell into the wagon. Apples flew everywhere, and splattered all over the ground. The Appleloosians looked at the mess, they were very cross now. Twilight then began to advance on Goldengrape, only for Applejack, and Reiner to hold her back. "Woah there Twi, now calm yourself". Applejack said. "Why won't any of you be rational and reasonable"! Twilight shouted. "Shut up"! Goldengrape shouted back. "Because of you we need to get more apples to defend ourselves!" He yelled. Twilight was bout to say something else only for Reiner to stop her. "It's not worth it". He said. Back in the town Braeburn watched as two ponies build another small wall. Sheriff Silverstar meanwhile stopped next to the Mane 8. Applejack took this oppertuinty to try and talk to him. "Sheriff, if we could only–" But he liked everyone else ignored her. "Talk about being unworthy of a badge". Bertholdt said under his breath. "I heard that". Sheriff Silverstar said making Berthodt gasp. Then the sheriff turned to face them. "You better stay outta this, and stop tryin to intervene." He said. Then he looked at Twilight. "And keep her under check, if she has another outburst, the Yous all are gonna be locked up"! Sheriff Silverstar threatened. Twilight, and her friends gasped in shock as Sheriff Silverstar walked away. Then, they head their heads down in defeat. (進撃gt20130218巨人) Back at the bufflo camp, they too were preparing for the upcoming battle. The put war paint on their faces, and sharpend their horns. Spike, Apple Bloom, and Little Strongheart watched from a distants. "Isn't there anyway to stop this"? Spike asked despertley. "Not unless those trees are removed". Little Strongheart replied. Meanwhile Rainbow Dash sat with Chief Thunderhooves as he too was preparing for the events that would take place tommorow. However she could see in his eyes that he was feeling guilty. "Do you really wanna do this". Rainbow Dash asked. Cheif Thunderhooves sighed. "Of course not, but they have taken our land. What would you have me do. Rainbow Dash"? He asked. Rainbow Dash looked at Cheif Thunderhooves for a moment unsure of what to say. "I don't know... but it's never too late to think of something." Rainbow Dash said. "At noon tommorow, it will be too late". Cheif Thunderhooves replied as he walked away. "Father"! Little Strongheart called out only to be ignored. Chief Thunderhooves went to a watering hall, and sat down. He looked up at the stars, and just stared for a bit. "I'd figure you'd come here". Chief Thunderhooves turned to see Little Strongheart, and Apple Bloom standing behind him. "Ah, daughter, and young Apple Bloom what brings you here"? Chief Thunderhooves asked with a smile. "We wanted to see if you were okay". Little Strongheart replied. Chief Thunderhooves smiled. "Don't worry, I'm fine, I'm just conflicted on somethings". He replied. He then turned to Apple Bloom. "I must apologize, you were injured because of us, and I don't know how I can make it up to you". Chief Thunderhooves replied. "You can make it up by getting along with the settlers, and coming up with some sort of compromise". Apple Bloom replied. Chief Thunderhooves sighed. "I fear it's too late for that". He said. "It's never too late for anything, as long as you have hope, and faith, you can over come all obsetcles." Apple Bloom stated. Chief Thunderhooves smiled at the little filly. "Such wise words coming from a child. You are not like the others Apple Bloom, there is kindness in your heart, you care about others. May I ask why though"? Chief Thunderhooves ask. "My daddy told me, "If two or more ponies are fightin, you need to try to understand both sides before choosing one". Apple Bloom replied. "Your father sounds like a wise pony". Said Chief Thunderhooves. "He was". Apple Bloom replied. "That's kind of the reason I was so angry when you took the tree. You see, that tree you guys took was the last tree my parents ever planted". She told them. "What, happend to your parents"? Little Strongheart asked. "I'm sorry if that's personal". She then stated when she saw the look on Apple Bloom's face. "No it's fine". Apple Bloom stated. "However it's not a day I like to remember. It happened five years ago, 845. My parents and I were coming home from my friends house that night. Anyway we came into this dark area of town, and that's when these two bandits came out of nowhere. They tried to grab me, but my parents protected me. However both of them lost their lives that day. I... Uh. Don't remember what happened afterwards, everything went blank. All I remeber is passing out, and waking up in a hospital". Apple Bloom stated. Little Strongheart was shocked. She couldn't believe Apple Bloom went through something like that. Chief Thunderhooves looked up at the sky. "Come, let us head back. Tommorow is a big day." He said. The next moring the citzens Appeloosa were ready, and waiting for the bufflo tribe to appear. The Mane Eight waited as well with extreme worry, and anticpation. Meanwhile Apple Bloom was high up on a hill that looked over the town. "Come on, think! Think, think, think, think, think, think, think!" Rainbow Dash muttered to herself. Then, the clock struck twleve, and the herd appeared over the horizion. Everyone waited. Chief Thunderhooves was about to make to comand, when Little Strongheart put her hoove on his cheek. He took a look, and his daughter, and sighed. Seeing this Rainbow Dash gasped in relief. "He's not gonna do it"! She exclaimed. Everypony sighed in relief, but their relief was soon shattered when they heard the sound of Pinkie Pie singing. what do you say? You gotta share You gotta care It's the right thing to do Chief Thunderhooves heard it too, and his eyes filled with rage. "Pinkie Pie stop"! Reiner called out, but Pinkie didn't stop, and then there was trouble. "CHAAARGE"! Chief Thunderhooves bellowed. The bufflo ran down the mountain, and towards the town. Pinkie Pie relized her mistake. Luckily Bertholdt pulled her out of the way before she could be trampled, but the war had begun. Apple Bloom could only watch as the battle commenced. The bufflo ramed right through the barriers that had been set up. Sheriff Silverstar smirked, as the herd charged at him and the other citzens "Ready... aim... fire!". He ordered. Pies flew everywhere, and hit several bufflo. The bufflo who didn't get hid ramed into haybales, though one hit his head on an anvil. Ponies, and bufflo were fighting all over town. Then one bufflo was hit in the face with pie. He ran into the clock tower. Crash! The clock tower came tumbling town. Then Chief Thunderhooves jumped from behind a some barrels. He locked eyes at Sheriff Silverstar, and began to charge at him. Sheriff Silverstar could see him coming. He prepared to grab another pie, but saw that there none left. So the Sheriff accepted his fate. All of a sudden a pie flew out of nowhere, and hit Chief Thunderhooves in the face. The chief of the bufflo came crashing to the ground. Everyone gasped in shock. Little Strongheart came up to Chief Thunderhooves. "Father". She whispered. "Are you okay"? Chief Thunderhooves didn't reply, and everyone feared the worst. Spike, and a bufflo began to cry. From up the hill Apple Bloom looked down. "Please no". She whimpered. "Father, please get up, please father". But no matter how hard Little Strongheart tried, Chief Thunderhooves wouldn't get up. Little Strongheart began to sob, and burred her face into her father's fur. "Daddy". She cried. All of a sudden, a piece of the pie that struck Chief Thunderhooves slid into his mouth. When he tasted it Chief Thunderhooves shot up, now he was smiling. "Yum! Hey, I've got a much better idea!" He said. Little Strongheart however didn't care, and hugged her father. Later ponies where chopping down some of the trees in order to make a path for the bufflo, as Chief Thunderhooves spoke. "We... will allow the apple orchard to stay in exchange for a share of its fruit, heh... Those... delicious apple pies!" Everyone was happy that they were able to come to an agreement. "Well sheriff, I'm glad we were able to come to a compromise". Chief Thunderhooves said. "Me too Chief. Me too". Sheirff Silverstar agreed. All of a sudden they heard the sound of apiano playing. They looked over and saw Spike back on the stage. "Oh dear god no". Chief Thunderhooves shuddered. "Hold me, I can't bear to hear that pink pony sing another word". Sheriff Silverstar whimpered. "Hey! First of all rude, and second that's not me". Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Well if it's not you, then who is it"? Asked Sheriff Silverstar. "I think I know". Applejack said with a smile. The curtian opened to reveal Apple Bloom sitting on a chair with a stool to help support her leg. She grabbed held the microphone, and began to sing. We're not in love We share no stories Just something in your eyes Don't be afraid The shadows know me Let's leave the world behind Take me through the night Fall into the dark side We don't need the light We'll live on the dark side I see it Let's feel it While we're still young and fearless Let go of the light Fall into the dark side Fall into the dark side Give into the dark side Let go of the light Fall into the dark side Sheriff Silverstar, and Chief Thunderhooves both hugged each other. "That's the most beautiful thing I've ever heard". Said Sheriff Silverstar. "The voice of an angel". Chief Thunderhooves stated in agreement. Beneath the sky As black as diamonds We're running out of time (Time, time) Don't wait for truth To come and blind us Let's just believe their lies Believe it I see it I know that you can feel it No secrets worth keeping So fool me like I'm dreaming Take me through the night Fall into the dark side We don't need the light We'll live on the dark side I see it Let's feel it While we're still young and fearless Let go of the light Fall into the dark side Fall into the dark side Give into the dark side Let go of the light Fall into the dark side Applejack smiled as Bloomberg was finally planted where he belonged. "Bloomberg, this is yer special day. Mama's so proud of you!" Twilight meanwhile resited her letter to Princess Celestia. Dear Princess Celestia, Friendship is a wondrous and powerful thing. Even the worst of enemies can become friends. You need understanding and compromise. You've got to share. You've got to care. "Hey that's what I said". Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt just laughed as Apple Bloom kept singing. Take me through the night Fall into the dark side We don't need the light We'll live on the dark side I see it Let's feel it While we're still young and fearless Let go of the light Fall into the dark side Preview A routine camping trip turns into a race aganist time when the Mane Eight, Spike, and Cutie Mark Crusaders encounter bandits, who steal their supplies, and take one of their own hostage. To make matters worse Applejack and Rainbow Dash can't seem to stop arguing. Will Twilight, and the other be able to get their supplies back, and more importantliy rescue their kidnapped friend. Next Episode. Distress. Author's Note Characters in order of Apperance Applejack Rarity Apple Bloom Bright Macintosh (Flashback) Pear Butter (Flashback) Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Twilight Sparkle Rainbow Dash Flutteshy Pinkie Pie Spike Little Strongheart Chief Thunderhooves Braeburn Goldengrape Daisy Black Stone Noteworthy Morton Saltworthy Ol' Salt Apple Fritter Apple Bumpkin Red Gala Red Delicious Golden Delicious Caramel Apple Apple Strudel Apple Tart Baked Apples Apple Brioche Apple Cinnamon Crisp Sheriff Silverstar Berry Punch Shoeshine Sweetie Drops Golden Harvest Karl Fritz (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback)
Episode 29: Distress: Gala arc Part 22How could this have happened. Everything was going so well too. Applejack, and Twilight stared daggers at the bandit who had Apple Bloom in his grasp, the knife aimed at her neck. Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity, Spike, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Reiner, and Bertholdt all watched. Waiting, for what would happen next. Several Hours Eariler It was a lovely day in ponyville as Twilight Sparkle raced through the town. Reiner, and Bertholdt close behind her. "Come on you guys, I wanna tell all our friends about this as soon as possible". Twilight said. "Twilight please slow down, it's still very early, you'll have plenty of time". Reiner stated. Twilight looked back at him, and slowed down. "I know that, but still I really want to tell our friends about this campsite. I mean look at it, it has everything. A lake, a waterfall, and oooh I'm just so excited". Twilight squeeled. "Well look, like I said it's still early, so some of are friends, namely Rainbow Dash are probably still asleep. So how about this, who did you want to invite"? Reiner asked. "You, Bertholdt, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Spike, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Applejack, and Apple Bloom". Twilight stated. "Um Twilight, did you forget Apple Bloom has a broken leg"? Bertholdt asked. "Don't worry Bertholdt, I'm sure it will be fine, and besides I think Apple Bloom would appriecate getting out of the house" Twilight replied. Reiner sighed. "Okay then how bout this, when it gets a little later in the day we each split up and tell our friends about this camping trip". He said. Twilight nodded in agreement. Later that day, the three of them each split off to tell their friends about the camping trip. Twilight had to tell Rarity, Sweetie Belle, and Pinkie Pie about the camping trip. She went to Pinkie Pie first. The pink earth pony instantly agreed to the idea, and began to get ready. Rarity was reluctant at first, but ulitmatley agreed after seeing Sweetie Belle's excited face. Bertholdt was tasked with telling Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo. First he told Scootaloo, and had no problems convicing her to come, especially after saying that Rainbow Dash would be there. Speaking of Rainbow Dash, she too agreed to come along. Now it was Reiner's job tell Fluttershy, Applejack, and Apple Bloom. Fluttershy immeditly said yes. Which Reiner of course knew she would. "Okay the hard part". Reiner thought to himself. Reiner walked up to the front door of Applejack's house, and knocked. After a few minutes Applejack opened up, and smiled when she saw him. "Howday Reiner, what brings you here today"? Applejack asked. "Hello Applejack, hey um listen there's something I need to ask you". Reiner said. "Well what is it"? Applejack asked. Reiner sighed. "Twilight found this hiking trail near here that leads to a very nice camping area, and she wants all of us to do it. By all of us she means Herself, me, Bertholdt, Rarity, Sweeite Belle, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Fluttershy, you, and Apple Bloom." Applejack stared at Reiner, and he continued. "I know Apple Bloom's leg, and all, but Twilight thinks Apple Bloom needs to get out of the house, and not sit inside all day, and I mean come on it is a nice day after all". Reiner said with a nervous chuckle. Applejack stood in silence for a few minutes. She looked up at the sky, and then back at Apple Bloom. She was on the couch sleeping with a pair of crutches next to her, and a new cast on her leg. Applejack smiled, and turned back to Reiner. "You know what, you're right Apple Bloom does need to get out of the house". Applejack said. "So that mean's you'll come". Reiner asked. "You betcha, as long as everypony can help Apple Bloom that is". Applejack stated. Reiner smiled, and nodded his head. Later the group met up at the Golden Oak Library to discuss how the hike was going to go. "I'm so glad you all agreed to come along on this adventure. Now I'm going to explain how things are going to go during that trip". Twilight said with excitment. Everypony smiled, and waited as the listen to Twilight. Once she was done explaing Rainbow Dash raised her hoof. "This sounds great and all Twilight, but if we want to get there quick, then don't you think there's somepony who might slow us down"? Rainbow Dash asked. Now Rainbow Dash didn't look at anyone in paticular, but everyone new she was talking about Apple Bloom. The little filly also knew, and felt tears well up into her eyes. Applejack wasn't too happy with Rainbow Dash for making her little sister cry. "Ya'll wanna repeat that missy"? Applejack warned. "I'm just saying we shouldn't have a liabilty come with us on this trip if we want it to be fun." Rainbow Dash replied. That made Applejack really angry, and she began to advance towards Rainbow Dash who in turn got into a fighting stance. Twilight quickly got in between them while the other comforted Apple Bloom who was now silently crying. "Girls please don't fight. This is suppose to be something all of us can do, and Rainbow calling Apple Bloom a liabilty? How could you say something like that to her"? Twilight demanded. Rainbow Dash just sighed, and looked at Apple Bloom. "Sorry". She simply said. Apple Bloom looked up, and nodded. "It's okay." But maybe I should stay here. I don't wanna be a liabilty." "Hey hey hey. You're not a liabilty. Don't think for a second that just because you have a broken leg means anyting". Reiner stated. "All of us will help you on this trip". Bertholdt replied. This made Apple Bloom feel better. Rainbow Dash just rolled her eyes, as Twilight spoke up. "Alright everypony. Lets go on an adventure"! She exclaimed excitedly "Yeah"! Everyone cheered. Soon they were all off on their adventure. Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie stayed back to assit Apple Bloom. About twenty minutes into their walk the gang game to a fork in the road. Twilight and Reiner looked at the map. "Both paths will lead to our desination, however the left one is shorter then the right one". Twilight stated. "Well then let's take the left past if we want to get there quick". Rainbow Dash said as she rushed forward only for Reiner to stop her". "Hold on Rainbow". He stated. "The left path is shorter but has a punch of hills we need to climb over". "That's right, we need to take the long way for Apple Bloom". Twilight replied. Everyone nodded in agreement, but Rainbow Dash gronaed in frustration. "Oh quit yer whinning Dash". Applejack stated. "We wouldn't be having any problems if she had just stayed home"! Rainbow Dash said pointing at Apple Bloom. "Rainbow Dash leave her alone"! Fluttershy scolded softly but firmly. "Yeah". replied Pinkie Pie. "It's not her fault she has a broken leg"! "Whatever'! Rainbow Dash stated as she continued on her way down the long path. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo both put comforting hooves on Apple Bloom's shoulders as tears welled up in the little filles eyes, and she began to softly sob. Both Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo glared at Rainbow Dash, who just rolled her eyes, and continued forward. Twilight just sighed, before turning to Apple Bloom. "Are you okay"? She asked. Apple Bloom just nodded, and Twilight gave her a smile reassuring smile. "Alright let's get a move on we wanna get to are destention before sunset". Reiner stated. The group went on down the path with Pinkie, and Fluttershy helping Apple Bloom. As they walked down, they couldn't help but admire the beautiful scenerary around them. "I can't believe how beautiful this forest is". Sweetie Belle stated. "I know, it's simply breathtaking". Rarity replied. "So lovely" Said Fluttershy. "It's nice to just get out, and enjoy nature every once and a while". Bertholdt acknowledged. Rainbow Dash, and Applejack however were not to into the scenerio around them, but instead were glaring at each other. Applejack knew Rainbow Dash was annoyed that they had to move slowly for Apple Bloom, but Applejack couldn't care less. She didn't want to leave her sister cooped up in a house, and this was actually good for her anyways. Rainbow Dash then spoke. "You know if we didn't have the EXTRA WEIGHT! We'd probably be there by now". She made sure to say that last part out loud. Everyone tried to ignore her. Pinkie Pie, put her hooves over Apple Bloom's ears so she wouldn't have to hear what was being said. Applejack however was none too please with how Rainbow Dash was behaving. "You take that back right now missy"! She demanded. "I will not, I'm only speaking the truth, but you are just too stubborn to realize that"! Rainbow Dash retorted "I ain't the one who's bein stubborn"! Applejack argued back. "Howday ya'll I'm Applejack, and I just love Apples"! Rainbow Dash mocked. This made Applejack furious. "Oh yeah?! Well I'm Rainbow Dash, and I wanna be a wonderbolt, but I know that will never happen cause I'm too darn lazy to ever do what I'm told. Rainbow Dash gasped. "How dare you"! She exclaimed. "What? I'm only speaking the truth". Applejack stated using Rainbow Dash's own words aganist her. That sent Rainbow Dash over the edge, and she lunged at Applejack. Immedidtly, Rarity, Reiner, and Bertholdt jumped in between them in an attempt to deescalte the situation. "Come on you two, this is no way to behave" Rarity said, but Applejack, and Rainbow Dash were too busy shouting at each other. Meanwhile everyone else just stood back. "This, is not going well". Sweetie Belle stated. "I know, I was hoping to have some fun with Rainbow Dash, but I honestly don't like the way she's acting". Scootaloo Replied. "This isn't going the way I hoped it would". Twilight muttered. She then turned to the little filly who was being the most effected by all this. "Apple Bloom I'm so sorry you have the hear all this". Twilight said as she hugged the little earth pony filly. Apple Bloom smiled, and gentely hugged Twilight back. "It's okay". She whispered. Finally, Rarity, Reiner, and Bertholdt manged to calm Applejack and Rainbow Dash down. "Now what do the two of you say to each other"? Reiner demanded. "Sorry". They both said meekley. "Good, now let's go". Reiner said. The group continued moving all while Applejack, and Rainbow Dash kept glaring at each other. Currently Publicly Available Information The Wasteland Navigation Exercise. A field exercise in which the cadets are split into two detachments and make a round trip through a wasteland. Both groups depart at the same hour and travel along two different routes, retrieve the planted object, then return to base. The target of this exercise is to find out how well one can stay alert in a non-critical situation. The group continued to walk on. Sweetie Belle took some pictures of the nature with the camera she brought. She smiled at how nice they came out. "Taking some pictures?" Asked Bertholdt. Sweetie Belle nodded. "I wanna remember all the things we saw today". She told him "Who knows if we'll ever have a chance like this again". Bertholdt smiled. All of a sudden Spike noticed something. "Hey guys look at this". He called out. The others came up to him, and noticed some bags on the ground. "Seems like there are other hikers around". Twilight stated. "Yeah, but look there". Spike said pointing. The others then noticed a large machete sticking out of one of the bags. "Why would hikers need a machete"? Asked Scootaloo. "Maybe to cut through leaves, and bushed"? Sweetie Belle suggested though she was unsure of herself. "That's not possible, there aren't any bushes on this path". Apple Bloom stated "They could have been cut up". Sweetie Belle replied. "If that were the case, the we would have seen cut up leaves on the ground". Reiner stated. The group stared for a while, before Fluttershy spoke up. "Oh my, I have a bad feeling about this". She gulped. Twilight nodded. "Yeah me too, so let's get out of here before whoever owns those supplies comes back. Everypony agreed, and quickly moved away from the bags, unaware that they were being watched. As they continued on the group came across a rope bridge, that looked pretty unstable. Twilight, and Reiner both knew they all couldn't cross at the same time. "This bridge won't be able to support us if we all cross at the same time". Twilight stated. "So what do we do"? Asked Bertholdt. "Simple we each cross one at a time". Reiner replied. Twilight nodded. "Right, Apple Bloom, and Spike first". She said. "Woah hold on, why them first"? Rainbow Dash asked. "Because Apple Bloom's going to need help getting across the bridge". Twilight told Rainbow Dash. She then turned to Spike. "Be sure to help her get across". She told him. "Of course". Spike said. Spike and Apple Bloom then walked over to the bridge. As they walked past Rainbow Dash, Apple Bloom noticed she was glaring at her. "Ignore her". Spike said as the two made it the bridge. "You ready"? He asked. Apple Bloom nodded, and the two slowly, and carefully made their way across the bridge. It did wobble a bit causing Apple Bloom to flinch, but other then that the two of them made it across safely. Soon the others came as well. Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, Bertholdt, and Reiner. Rainbow Dash flew across. As soon as they were across the bridge Twilight looked at the map one more time. Apple Bloom walked up to her. "Where now"? She asked "See up there? There's another fork in the road. Unfourntenly unlike the last one the map doesn't show what path which be eaiser for you". Twilight stated. "So, what do we do"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Reiner, and I are gonna check both paths, and see which one is better. Would you mind holding onto the map for me"? Twilight then asked. Apple Bloom beamed and nodded her head. Twilight, and Reiner then walked up the paths. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo walked up to Apple Bloom "Isn't this wonderful, it's so nice to go on an adventure like this". Sweetie Belle stated. "It would be even better if I didn't have this broken leg, and wasn't slowing us down". Apple Bloom said sadly. "Hey, don't listen to anything Rainbow Dash is saying. It's not your fault you're injured". Scootaloo said. Apple Bloom still didn't feel very good about herself. "Hey think about it though, we might get hiking cutie marks". Scootloo then stated. Sweetie Belle gasped. "Yes that would be amazing". She exclaimed. "Cutie Mark Crusader Hikers"! Apple Bloom cheered "YAY"! They all cheered. Applejack, and Rarity both smiled at the children as they cheered. "Sure is nice seein em smile like that". Applejack said. "Yes, especially Apple Bloom with after everything that's happened today". Rarity replied. "I couldn't agree more". Stated Applejack. However the excitment soon went downhil. All of a sudden, a random bird flew out of a bush near Apple Bloom, causing the young filly to yelp in suprise. However the worse was yet the come. Apple Bloom had been so startled that she dropped the map. "Oh no"! Apple Bloom Yelped as she tried to get the map. The others noticed what was happening, and tried to get the map too, but it was no use. The map flew off the cliff, and fell into the river bellow completly ruined. Rainbow Dash turned to Apple Bloom, her eyes full of rage. "Look what you've done"! She shouted causing Apple Bloom to yelp. "Rainbow Dash"! Spike began, but Rainbow Dash wasn't listening as she advanced towards Apple Bloom. The filly backed away trembling in fear. She then tripped over a stone and hit her broken leg causing her to cry out in pain, but Rainbow Dash didn't stop. "First you slow us down, and now you've gotten us lost! I knew Twilight shouldn't have brought you along, you're nothing but liablity, and a nuscinces"! Rainbdow Dash yelled. Apple Bloom's eyes filled with tears, her lips began to quiver. "I I I'm s s sorry"! She began sobbing. Rainbow Dash however just continued to grill in to Apple Bloom. "Miss Rainbow Dash stop yelling at her this instant"! Rarity scolded. "I'm only speaking the truth". Rainbow Dash stated. "The truth? All you'ved done is make my little sister feel bad about herself"! Applejack replied. As Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Applejack argued, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Bertholdt, Spike, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all began to comfort Apple Bloom just as Twilight and Reiner returned. "What happened"?! Reiner demanded. "Why is Apple Bloom crying"!? Twilight asked in a concerned voice. "She dropped the map in to the river, and now we don't know where to go"! Rainbow Dash complained. "It was an accident, she didn't mean to do it". Fluttershy stated. "SHE SHOULDN'T EVEN BE ON THIS TRIP IN THE FIRST PLACE, ALL SHE'S DOING IS SLOWING US DOWN"! Rainbow Dash stated. "NO SHE HASN'T! AT NO POINT DID WE EVER HAVE TO STOP AND WAIT FOR HER! YOU RAINBOW DASH ARE BEING NOTHIN BUT A DAMN HIPPOCRYTE"! Applejack yelled. Soon the two of them were in a screaming match with each other. Rarity, Spike, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle tried to stop them, while Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, Pinkie, and Fluttershy stayed with Apple Bloom who was now coverng her ears. "Apple Bloom are you okay"? Bertholdt asked with conceren in his voice. Apple Bloom only grimced in response. "Nggh". She groaned. "Apple Bloom, what's wrong"? Asked Twilight as she put her hooves around the little filly's shoulder's. "Make them stop". Apple Bloom grimced. The others looked at each other, and then Reiner stood up. "ENOUGH"! He shouted with such authority it made everyone jump. "Rainbow Dash you have no right to be treating Apple Bloom the way you are". "But"! Rainbow Dash began. "NO"! Reiner intterupted. "You have been nothing but cruel, and unfair to her, nothing has slowed us down, or anything". Rainbow Dash just stared at Reiner, not saying anything so Reiner contiuned. "You want to be a wonderbolt right? Well they won't accept someone who yells at an injured child". Reiner stated. Rainbow Dash just sighed. "Sorry". She grunted. "It's okay". Apple Bloom stated, but she knew that Rainbow Dash didn't actually mean it. Then Spike spoke up. "But what are we going to do without the map"? He asked. "Don't worry, we don't need it anyways"? Twilight told him. "How come"? Asked Sweetie Belle. "Because all we need to do is take the left path, and we'll be there". Reiner stated. That made everypony exicted. "Well what are we waiting for, let's go"! Apple Bloom exclaimed happily. With that the gang all followed Twilight, and Reiner up the path. It took about ten minutes to get up the hill, but finally they made it, and looked at the amazing view ahead of them. "What did I tell you guys, isn't this amazing"? Twilight asked excitedly. "I'll say, this place is simply breathtaking". Rarity replied. "I'm so glad of all us get to experiance something like this". Scootaloo stated as they all looked around. There were trees, a large field down the hill, a crystal blue lake with a waterfall, and a rainbow. It was magnificent. "Come on girls let's go have fun"! Pinkie Pie said to the CMCs as she put Apple Bloom onto her back and ran down the hill, with Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle following. Soon they were all playing in the site, and having a great time. Pinkie Pie, and The Crusaders swam in the lake, Fluttershy froliced in the field of Flowers. Twilight, and Spike looked up at the Rainbow, Reiner, and Bertholdt spared with each other, and Sweetie Belle in addtion to swimming also took severeal pictures with her camera. However Applejack, and Rainbow Dash didn't play, and were both just glaring at each other. Fluttershy noticed this, and came up to the two of them. "Are you two alright"? She asked. Applejack was about to answer, when Sweetie Belle came up to them. "Hey, you all gotta see, what Apple Bloom, and Pinkie Pie found". She told them. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Twilight, Fluttershy, Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt all followed Sweeite Belle behind the waterfall where Pinkie Pie, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo were waiting. "You wanted to show us a cave"? Rainbow Dash asked unimpressed. "Not the cave it self, it's what's on the otherside". Pinkie Pie stated as she, and the crusaders led the others down the end of the cave. Once on the other side, the others gasped in shocked, there was a hotsprings. "How did you find this, it was nowhere on the map". Twilight pointed out. "As we were swimming in the lake, I just happend to look behind the waterfall, and a saw a quick glimpse of something I didn't know what it was". Apple Bloom exclaimed. "So Apple Bloom asked me to take her over there, and check it out. That's when we discovered the cave, and our curiosty got the better of us so we went through it, and found the hot springs". Pinkie Pie stated. "So of course we told Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo". Apple Bloom continued. "And then I told all of you". Said Sweetie Belle. The others stared for a while, before all smiling. Soon they were all relaxing in the hotsprings, and what was even better is that there were four different areas. One for The mares, one for the Crusaders, one for Spike, and one for Reiner and Bertholdt. With Twilight and the others they sat, in their pool as Rarity spoke. "It is so lovely that you and the crusaders discovered this Pinkie Pie". She complemented. "Well it was mainly Apple Bloom who found it". Pinkie Pie replied. Each of the girls all nodded in agreement except Rainbow Dash who just groaned. "She's lucky we made here at all after she lost the map". She grumble. "Oh for the love of knock it off RD, it was a mistake, and you know it." Applejack stated. "Yeah, and you know what else was a mistake, bringing a damn cripple on this hike who's gonna do nothing but ruin our fun"! Rainbow Dash retorted. She said this in a whisperer, but Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Spike, Reiner, and Bertholdt all heard her. Apple Bloom began to cry while Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo comforted her, while Reiner, and Bertholdt had to hold Spike back since he wanted to give Rainbow Dash a peace of his mind. Later that night they were all gather around a campfire, though tenseions were high, with Applejack, and Rainbow Dash glaring at each other, and Apple Bloom feeling guilty about loosing the map. After a few minutes of silence Twilight spoke up. "Um, I know things were a little frustrated, but at least we all made it her, and we were all able to have fun". She said. Reiner nodded in agreement. "That's right, come on everyone let's not dwell on the negetive stuff, and focus on what a great time we had". He said this while looking at Applejack, and Rainbow Dash. Seeing Reiner look at them Applejack just smirked at Rainbow Dash. "You are absouletly right Mr. Braun, we did have a great time today, and absoultely nothing, nor did anypony ruin it". She said while eyeing Rainbow Dash, who noticed the way Applejack, and Everyone was looking at her. "What"?! She asked in a rather annoyed tone. To which Applejack smirked again. "Admit it, you were wrong about Apple Bloom ruining this hike because of her broken leg". She stated. "Applejack's right Rainbow Dash, Apple Bloom's injuried hasn't caused any major issues at all". Bertholdt replied. Everyone nodded in agreement, but Rainbow Dash just rolled her eyes. "Well she lost the map, and how are we going to go home without it"! Rainbow Dash retorted. "Simple, by just going back the way we came, we went in a staright line". Sweetie Belle replied. "Whatever". Rainbow Dash said. That's when Applejack spoke up. "You know I've had it up to here with you treating my little sis like garbage! You are almost a grown adult, and you should not be treating a child they way you have been treating Apple Bloom". "Oh yeah, well if you were smart you would have known not to bring her on this hike"! Rainbow Dash argued back. Soon enough they were again shouting at each other when all of a sudden a voice screamed "STOP"! Everyone looked to see Apple Bloom panting heavily with tears streaming down her face. "I'm tired of you two arguing over me, I can't help that I have a broken leg, but I'm not going to let that stop me. I'm glad to be on this trip with all of you" She stated before turning to Applejack and Rainbow Dash. "However if anyone is runing this trip it's you two with your constant arguing, and bickering." Apple Bloom then turned to Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "Can you two help me down to the lake, I need some time alone". She told them. "Of course". Sweetie Belle said as she and Scootaloo helped Apple Bloom walk over to the lake. Everyone else just watched them go. Applejack didn't say anything. She just knew that Apple Bloom was right. For a while no pony said anything, utnil Twilight Spoke up. "It's late, let's get some sleep". She said. Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo helped Apple Bloom down to the lake, once there they sat her down by the edge of the water. "Thanks you two". Apple Bloom stated. "No problem". Replied Scootaloo. "Do you want us to stay with you"? Asked Sweetie Belle. "No thanks, I just want to be alone right now". Apple Bloom answered. "Oh, okay well yell if you need anything". Sweetie Belle said as she and Scootaloo headed back to the others. "Today was a pretty fun day, though Rainbow Dash was being such a big meanie to Apple Bloom". Sweetie Belle grumbled. To her suprise Scootaloo nodded in agreement. "Yeah I can't believe Rainbow Dash would say all those horrible things to her". Scootaloo stated. "Wow Scootaloo I'm actually surpised that you aren't defending Rainbow Dash". Sweetie Belle stated. Scootaloo looked at Sweetie Belle in confusion. "Why would you say that"? She asked. "Because you look up to Rainbow Dash, and think everything she does is awesome". Sweetie Belle replied. "Yes, while I may be Rainbow Dash's biggest Fan". Scootaloo began. "Self proclaimed". Sweetie Belle intterupted while smirking. "Anyways, I may have looked up to Rainbow Dash, but I will not support anyone who is mean to a pony who is sick, and or injured, and honestley with the way Rainbow Dash has been treating Apple Bloom I don't even think I want to be like her anymore". Scootaloo stated. Sweetie Belle stared as Scootaloo walked back to the others. "I hope Rainbow Dash realizes her mistake, or she's going to loose all of her friends". Sweetie Belle mummbled to herself. Apple Bloom sat by the lake, fourtenlty Sweetie Belle, and Scootloo made sure to put her in a postion where she would be comfortble. She then thought back to what Rainbow Dash had said in the hot springs "You Know What else was a mistkae? Bringing a damn cripple on this hike who's gonna do nothing but ruin our fun"! Apple Bloom stared at reflection in the lake, she wondered if Rainbow Dash was right, was it a mistake coming with everyone. "I did loose the map, even if we did make it here in once peace". Apple Bloom said to herself. As she pondered this a ferret came out of the bushes and up to her. Apple Bloom gave it a small smile. "Hey there little guy". Apple Bloom said as she gave the ferret a few small pets. The ferret rubbed up against Apple Bloom making the little filly giggle. It was like it knew something was bothering her, and it was trying to make her feel better. Apple Bloom couldn't help but smile as she remembered the words Reiner told her the day of Diamond Tiara's cute-ceninara. You already have a family who loves you, and friends throughout Ponyville, the opinion of two little fillies isn't going to matter to anyone, and you know that". Apple Bloom smiled. Reiner was right, and she didn't regret coming on this trip. Apple Bloom was about to call out for help back to the others. She knew it would annoy Rainbow Dash who was most likely asleep, but Apple Bloom didn't care anymore. However before she could call out she was interrupted by some rustling in the bushes. on the other side of the lake. The sound caused the ferret to spring up and snarl. This confused Apple Bloom greatly, as the ferret all of a sudden ran off. Apple Bloom only stared off in the distance, when all of a sudden a figure appeared behind her. Twilight was awoken by the sound of a shirl scream. She looked up to see a masked stalion looming over her holding the same machete they had discovered eariler. "Don't move". He said in a deep voice. Twilight's eyes darted around. She saw that a bunch of masked stalions were standing over her friends. All of them had looks of fear in their eyes, as the one who stood over Twilight spoke again (VNPF2013 Plays) Gather their supplies he said. His henchmen did what he asked, and started to gather all the supplies the group had brought with them as they could only watch. "Why are you doing this"? Twilight asked. "You ponies look like you have stuff that others would be willing to pay a heffty price for, and beisdes it's not like you need them anyways". The lead bandit replied as the group contiuned to stay in place. All of a sudden, Twilight shot up, and grabbed the Machette the lead bandit was holding. "Everyone, now"! She commanded as she and the lead bandit began to struggle. However no one did anything. "Twilight"! Spike shouted only to have another knife pointed at him. Rainbow Dash tried to fly away, but stopped in her tracks when the machette the lead bandit was holding flew out of his hooves, and wizzed past Rainbow Dash's head. Rainbow Dash just stood still in shock, as the lead bandit brought up his free hoof, and socked Twilight in the face sending her to the ground. "You better think twice before you move". He stated. Present Time Twilight, and the others could only watch as the bandits took all their supplies. However to make matters worse, they we're also taking Apple Bloom hostage as well. He front and back legs were tied, and her mouth was gagged so she couldn't scream. The lead bandit then spoke again. "We're not going to kill her, and we will release at one point, but if you follow us she's dead". He warned as he got into the waggon they had brought with them and sped off. "Everyone.... If we had attacked as a team, then we could have done something". Twilight stated. The others just looked at her before Rainbow Dash spoke up. "That's just your opinion. I think you're wrong. Infact you're reckless behavoir put us all in danger". She replied. "We should get go back to Ponyville, this trip is over". Applejack said. "You're right"Spike replied. Twilight however didn't like that response. (Call your Name Plays) "Are we just going to abandon Apple Bloom"?! She asked, disgusted that Applejack would even suspect that. "Of course not, I want to save my little sister, but we don't even know where they went. We need to go to the proper authorites before we do anything". Applejack told Twilight, but Twilight wasn't having any of it. "By the time we get help, it will probably be too late"! She exclaimed. When no one replied she continued. "I'm going to save Apple Bloom, even if I have to do it alone"! Twilight told them through tears as she began to walk off. "Twilight"! Spike called out only for Rainbow Dash to go after her. "Wait"! Rainbow Dash called as she caught up to Twilight and grabbed her. "How do you even expect to find them". She aksed. "Why does it matter to you"?! Twilight stated angrily. "It does matter. I'm going with you"! Rainbow Dash replied. Twilight was shocked to hear Rainbow Dash say that. Rainbow Dash could see that so she continued. "I've been unfairly cruel to Apple Bloom throughout this entire trip, I owe her a big apology, and I also want some payback for what those bandits did. As Rainbow Dash say this, the others came down all willing to join them on this rescue mission, Applejack putting her hoof on Rainbow Dash's shoulder. "I know Apple Bloom will forgive you RD, and I'm glad you're seeing the error of your ways". She said. Rainbow Dash smiled. "Alright, let's go save Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo you two stay here". Twilight said. "No way"! Sweetie Belle retorted. "Huh"? Twilight said in confusion. "Apple Bloom's our friend, and there's no way we're going to sit back when she's in danger"! Scootaloo stated. The others knew that Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo weren't going to back down, so they all just sighed. "Alright, then lets go"! Twilight replied. "Wait, how are we going to find them"? Fluttershy asked. "I've got an idea". Reiner answered. "What is it"? Asked Spike. "A couple months ago back when Bertholdt and I were training to be soliders in our hometown, we had to do a training excerise which involed going out into the woods. We we're split into two groups, and during the excerise group A had to deal with bandits who had kidnapped one of our friends. Bertholdt and I weren't part of the group that delt with the bandits, but group A told us that they manged to rescue our friend by going up to higher ground like trees, and mountaints". Reiner replied. "Going up. That's a great idea Reiner"! Twilight stated. So the group made their way up a nearby mountain to see if they could spot the kidnappers, and sure enough they were. Twilight looked through the telescope she had brought with them, and saw them at a different campsite. They were leading Apple Bloom towards another wagon with the supplies. "At least they have the dignently to support Apple Bloom with her leg". Twilight mutterted to herself. "So what do we do know"? Asked Scootaloo. "I have an idea". Fluttershy replied. Everyone looked at her in shock, but Fluttershy told them her plan anyways. "There are two different paths those guys can take. The right path is the easier one, as it has more room, especisaly for those big wagons. If they get there it'll be too late, however luckly for us there's they have to go through the forest to get to it". Fluttershy told them. "So what are you suggesting darling"? Rarity asked. "Simple, as long as we can block their path with the trees, and then ambush them we should be good". Fluttershy replied. "Hold on Flutters how is everypony going to get up to the trees, I mean You, Bertholdt, and I can fly, but what about the others"? Rainbow Dash asked. That's when both Applejack, and Pinkie Pie smirked. "You just leave that to us". Pinkie Pie stated. (EMA Plays) Down with the bandits, they had tied Apple Bloom up aganist the top of the Wagon, and began to drive off. However they were unawre that Twilight, and her friends we're waiting from the trees ahead. Once the wagon made it into the forest, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Spike, and Rarity used Pinkie Pie's grapple hook to swing from one tree to the next. Meanwhile, Applejack, Reiner, and Bertholdt were waiting behind some rocks while holding the lasso Applejack brought. "How will we know which wagon has Apple Bloom in it"? Bertholdt asked. "Will hear the sound of clanging since it will also have the stuff in it to". Reiner answered. The three of them waited. Four wagons pasted, finally the fifth one made the clanging sound they we're waiting for. "NOW"! Applejack shouted as she Reiner, and Bertholdt pulled the rope, and brought the tree down. Unfouretnely the ponies pulling the wagon saw the tree coming and quickly made it under the tree before it blocked their path. "Damnit"! Cursed Applejack as the wagon began getting away. However unknown to the bandits in the trees waiting were Twilight Sparkle, and Rainbow Dash. As soon as the Wagon was near them, they leaped in from the trees. "What the! Who are". The stalion didn't have time to finish his sentence before he was socked in the face by Twilight. He was knocked out as the other bandit began to struggle with her. As Twilight fought with the other bandits Rainbow Dash worked on freeing Apple Bloom All of a sudden Apple Bloom screamed. "LOOK OUT"! Rainbow Dash turned just in time to see one of the bandits rushing at her with a large knife. However before it could strike Rainbow Dash Reiner appeared, and blocked it with his foreleg. The knife struck him creating a deep cut as blood started to leak out of the wound. "Reiner"! Twilight screamed. "It's okay, I'll handle these guys, just get Apple Bloom, and get as far away as possible"! Reiner demanded. "But Reiner"! Rainbow Dash argued. "Don't argue with me, just do what I say"! He said sternly. Twilight, and Rainbow Dash reluctantly did as they were told, and began to work on freeing Apple Bloom. Finally, the manged to untire, and lept out of the wagon. Once they were save Twilight turned to see Reiner still on the wagon fighting the bandits. "Reiner"! Twilight yelled, and began to chase after the wagon only to be stopped by Bertholdt. "Bertholdt what are you doing"?! Twilight asked in confusion. "Don't worry. Reiner can handle himself". Bertholdt reassured Twilight. Twilight looked back as the wagon disappeared into the woods before sighing, and rushing over to check on Apple Bloom. Back with the bandits the leader was wondering what all the noise was. "What is happening back there"?! He demanded. "Those ponies we robbed attacked us, and rescued the girl! Now one of them is on the last wagon, and is attacking our crew". One of the henchmen replied. The leader growled in response. "Stop abrubtly, all the other wagons will stop too. That should get whoever the pony is off balance enoguh for someone to kill him. The driver of the head wagon did as he was told, and soon all the other wagons did so as well. When the last one stopped Reiner, who had been beating up the other bandits was knocked down. This allowed one of the bandits to stab Reiner right in the chest with a large hunting knife. "ARGH"! Reiner growled. The pony smirked at Reiner. "Not so tough now are you. Now you will pay for what you've done". The Bandit said. He went to finish Reiner off when Reiner grabbed the knife from the bandit, and tossed it out of the wagon. "You have know idea who you're messing with". Reiner stated as sparks of light began to appear across his body as the bandits looked on in confusion. Outside the other bandits waited for their orders when they were all suddendly suprised by the sound of an explosion. They all turned to see that the last wagon had been destroyed, all of the ponies in it dead, and standing in front of them all was the Armored Titan. "What the hell is that thing"?! One of the bandits asked in shock before he was instantly stepped on by Reiner. The Armored Titan then charged forward as the bandits tried to run away, however Reiner was able to run pass them. He then slammed into the side of a mountain the force of the impact causing a huge rock slide the crushed, and killed all the remaing bandits. Once they were all dead Reiner left the nape of the Armored Titan, covered himself in a bunch of cuts, and bruises, and made his way away from the carnage. It took Reiner about an hour to return back to the others. By the time he got there several police ponies along with Mayor Mare, and even Princess Celestia were all there as well. Twilight was talking with Celestia when she spoted Reiner walking over to them. "Reiner"! She ran over, and gave him a hug. "Are you okay". "I'm fine". Reiner reassured Twilight just as Mayor Mare and Princess Celestia came up to them. "Mr. Braun, can you please tell us where the bandits are now"? Mayor Mare asked. Reiner sighed, "All of them are Dead". He replied. Twilight gasped in shock, but Mayor Mare. and Princess Celestia remained unfased. "Can you tell us how they died"? Asked Princess Celestia. "As we were going past a large mountain there was a rockslide, and they all got crushed. I survived because I jumped out of the wagon I was in". Reiner answered. Princess Celestia nodded her head. "Very well". She said. "We will send a team to collect their bodies". She, and Mayor Mare then walked away. "How's Apple Bloom"? Reiner asked. "She's fine, a little shaken up, but other then that she's going to be okay". Twilight said. She then walked away just as Bertholdt came up to Reiner. "You used your Titan form didn't you". Bertholdt whispered to which Reiner nodded his head. He then looked at Twilight. "That little pony is young, but she has potential Bertholdt. Prehaps she can help us retake the Coordinate from Eren". Reiner said. To which Bertholdt simply nodded. Meanwhile Rainbow Dash was talking with Applejack, and Apple Bloom. "Apple Bloom I am so sorry for how I've been treating you all day. I had no right to say it was a mistake to bring you, or to yell at you about the map. I really hope you can forgive me". Rainbow Dash said sadly. Apple Bloom responded by giving Rainbow Dash a big hug, and smilling. "So you do forgive"? Rainbow Dash asked hopefully to which Apple Bloom smiled, and nodded her head. "Thanks Apple Bloom". Rainbow Dash smiled. Over a few meters away Pinkie Pie stood with Fluttershy. "You know we didn't really do alot". Pinkie Pie said. "Meh". Fluttershy shrugged as she walked away confusing Pinkie Pie. "Meh? That's all you've gotta say is meh?". She asked to which Fluttershy just said. "Meh". Again leaving Pinkie Pie confused as Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo who had both seen the hold thing just laughed. Preview When Princess Celestia visits Ponyville Fluttershy notices her sick pet bird, and decieds to take it home in order to help it feel better. However she does this without asking the Princess's permission, and soon trouble arrises. Next Episode. A Bird in a Hoof Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Applejack Twilight Sparkle Apple Bloom Rainbow Dash Pinkie Pie Fluttershy Rarity Spike Sweetie Belle Scootaloo Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Bertholdt Hoover Histoira Reiss (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Jean Kirsten (Flashback) Connie Springer (Flashback) Marco Bodt (Flashback) Sasha Braus (Flashback) Mina Carolina (Flashback) Thomas Wagner (Flashback) Samuel Linke-Jackson (Flashback) Nack Tierce (Flashback) Keith Sadies (Flashback) Princess Celestia Mayor Mare
Episode 30: A Bird in a Hoof: Gala arc Part 23It was a bright sunny day at Fluttershy's cottage. The animals were playing in the garden, and roaming throughout the house. Fluttershy in the mean time was just getting finish tending to a mouse that had an injuried leg. "There you go Mr. Mousey." She said as she pushed the mouse to his realived family. "Now you stay off that leg and do everything I told you. And it will be just like new in no time at all." The mice family squeaked in gradituted as Fluttershy blushed. "Oh, you're welcome. Happy to be able to help." She said. All of a sudden Angel came running into the room with a panicked look on his face. He pulled out a stop watch, and began to pick up to pace running stright into Fluttershy's back leg. The pegagus gave out a small yelp, and looked down to see what Angel Wanted. The bunny immedidtly started to wave the watch around, but this only confused Fluttershy. Angel wasn't to keen on actually talking, preffering to play charades instead, that however made it more difficult for Fluttershy to be able to understand him. "You found a watch"? She asked. Angel frowned, and shook his head. He then started to mimic the watch hoping Fluttershy would understand, but that only confused her even more. "You wanted to be a watch"? She guessed. Angel frowned again, and then began to run in place as Fluttershy watched, and tried to guess what he was trying to say. "You're running! Running out of time? No. You're... late?" She guessed. Angel Smiled, that told Fluttersh she was getting close. All of a sudden the clock tower in Ponyville struck four. That was when Fluttershy finally realized what Angel was trying to say. She gasped in shock. "I'm late for a very important date! The big brunch for Princess Celestia at Sugarcube Corner." A millon thought then began to run through Fluttershy's head. "Oh, the princess is here in Ponyville for a party, and we all promised we'd be there. But I'm not there! Oh, do I look all right? Do I need to bring anything? Maybe I shouldn't go. Suddenly a trumpet sounded. "Ahh it's starting, and I'm not there". Fluttershy exclaimed as she ran out of the house. Angel sighed in relief when Fluttershy came back in. "Oh, thanks, Angel". She said before leaving again, but then she came back again "I mean, if you hadn't reminded me, I might have not remembered, and then I wouldn't be there, and everypony would be wondering where I was and... " Before she could finish Angel started to stomp on her hoof. "Oh right, I'm late". Fluttershy realized as she left once more. This time to make sure she wouldn't come back Angel locked the door. Of course as he predicted Fluttershy tried to get back in. Seeing the door was locked Fluttershy just decieded to go. "Oh okay then. See you later". she said, and Angel smiled. At sugarcube corner where the party was happening two royal guards were stationed outside. Rainbow Dash peering out the door decieded to have a little fun with them. "So what do you have to do to be one of the Princesses royal guards anyway"? She asked. However the guards didn't reply. "Is the pay good"? She asked but again got no response. Now Rainbow Dash was getting annoyed. "Hellooo? Anybody home?" But again she got no response. So she started to make a bunch of faces. She tried everything to get a reaction, but got nothing at all. Finally Rainbow Dash had enough. "Ooh, you're good. Too good. I'm bored." She said as she went back into the party just as Fluttershy arrived. "Phew made it". She sighed in relief. However just as she was about to enter the guards suddenly blocked her way, and stared intimidatingly. "Halt! Who goes there". They demanded. Frightened, Fluttershy began to tremble and back away. "No one. Never mind. I'll go home.". Fourtentley for Fluttershy Twilight, and Reiner happend to walk by. Noticing what was happening They quickly moved in to descalate the situation. "It's alright sirs she's on the list". Twilight confirmed. With that the guards removed their wings, and allowed Fluttershy inside, however she noticed one of them was still glaring at her for some reason, but she chose to ignore it. "Thanks you two". Fluttershy said greatfully. "I'm so glad you could make it Fluttershy". Twilight said happily. "Yeah it wouldn't be the same without you". Reiner replied. Fluttershy smiled happy that her friends were all here. Inside the kitchen Spike was helping Mr. and Mrs. Cake with the treats by using his fire breath to heat them up. "How's everypony doing? Good? Good." Mr. Cake said as he walked out of the kitchen with some of the snacks. Meanwhile his wife was making sure Princess Celestia was comfortable with everything. "Anything else we can get for you, dearies...?" She asked befoe quickly correcting herself. "Ooh, I-I mean, esteemed guests." Princess Celestia smiled. "Everything is just fine Mr. and Mrs. Cake". She replied. "Sorry I'm late. I had to finish taking care of a patient first." Fluttershy explained to Twilight, and Reiner. That made Twilight smile. "Oh, you and your tender loving care of little animals. I just know Princess Celestia is gonna love that about you. I mean, I hope she will... I mean, of course she will!" Twilight said, however both Fluttershy, and Reiner could tell she was getting nervous. "Wow, Twilight. I thought I was the only one who got nervous at social gatherings" Fluttershy pointed out. "Oh it's not that. Twilight just wants Princess Celestia to approve of all of us". Reiner explained. That confused Fluttershy a little. "But she's met us all before". Fluttershy pointed out. And read about you in my letters, but this is the first time she's actually sitting down to spend some real time with you all, and I just want it to go well". Twilight explained. "Well, I'm sure you have nothing to worry about. Besides, it's just a casual get-together, right?" Fluttershy asked as she looked around, but soon began to understand why Twilight was a little worried. First Fluttershy saw Rarity, and Sweetie Belle. Rarity was wearing a very fancy gown, and was snapping at anypony who came near her. "Don't touch me! Watch the dress! Careful, you're gonna spill that on me!" Rarity complained as Sweetie Belle groaned in embarssement just as Mrs. Cake came up to them and offered them a cupcake. "Oh, oh, that looks delicious. What is it?" Rarity asked intriqued, but then backed away in horror. "Oh, does it stain?! Keep it away from me!" She shrieked. Rarity even pulled Sweetie Belle away before she could get a cupcake. "Oh come on"! Sweetie Belle groaned. Seeing what happened with Sweetie Belle and Rarity, Fluttershy gave a nervous smile. "Or... perhaps not that casual." She realized as she saw Bertholdt talking with Scootaloo which was interesting seeing as they never really hung out, but they seemed to be having a pretty interesting conversation. "Can you tell me about what you did as a solider"? Scootaloo asked. "I guess I could, but I don't want to go into a lot of details". Bertholdt replied. "Oh that's okay just talk about stuff you're comfortable with". Scootaloo stated. As Scootaloo and Bertholdt began to have their conversation Fluttershy looked over in another direction to see Applejack at the buffet table. She was having a hard time on decideing what to eat. "Uh... which is the salad and which is the appetizer again? And which am I supposed to eat first?" She questioned. First she tried to go for a bowl of salad, then she tried to go for a sandwhich. In the end though she decieded not to eat anything. "Oh, never mind. I'm not hungry." After seeing Applejack Fluttershy couldn't help but notice something. "Hey Twilight"? "Yes Fluttershy"? Twilight said turning to her friend "Well I noticed that Sweetie belle, and Scootaloo are here, but where's Apple Bloom"? Fluttershy asked. "Oh, she stayed home, her leg is feeling really bad today". Twilight replied. "Oh, how bad is it"? Fluttershy asked. "It's to the point where she can't stand for very long with being in intense pain". Reiner answered. "Oh". Fluttershy said as she looked back at the others. She then turned to Twilight who was clearly getting more nervous. " It's okay, Twilight. So our friends' manners aren't perfect. I doubt the princess will even notice." Fluttershy said trying her best to reassure Twilight. However as if fate just wanted to be a bitch to her today Pinkie Pie came bouncing in as if right on cue. "I could almost feel that coming, right as I finshed the sentence". Fluttershy stated as Pinkie bounced around Sugar Cube Corner. "Whoo-hoo! Cupcakes, candies and pies, oh my!" She cheered. Then she spotted a chocolate fountain. "Oooh! Chocolate fountainy goodness!" She dove her head into the chocolate. After that she went over to the Princess who was about to eat a cup cake. "You gonna eat that"? Asked Pinkie before she striaght stole the cupcake from Celestia, and scarfed it down. Fluttershy, Twilight, Reiner, and Mrs. Cake all gasped, but Princess Celestia just smiled as Pinkie Pie was dragged off the table. "Hey"! Pinkie Pie protested as Celestia was giving another cupcake. "A thousand pardons you're magiesty". Mr. Cake apologized. "That's quite alright Mr. and Mrs. Cake Princess Celestia replied as she ate the cupcake, and drank the tea. "Empty teacup at 4 o'clock!" Mrs. Cake exclaimed. "I see it honey bun"! Mr. Cake replied. He went to quickly refill the tea cup suprising Princess Celestia. "Oh um thank you". She said. "It's no trouble at all your magesity." Mr. Cake replied. Princess Celestia drank that tea, and it was filled up again. "Thank you again". Princess Celestia thanked. This happened three more times where Celestia would drink the tea, and the Cakes would refil the cup. When the force cup came Princesss Celestia deceied to have a little fun with them. She pretened to take a sip, and of course Mr. Cake poured some more tea in the cup causing it to spill. "Gothca". Princess Celestia smirked. Reiner snickered, Fluttershy giggled, and Twilight groaned. That's when Princess Celestia turned to the three of them, and adressed Fluttershy. "And what about you, dear? Fluttershy, is it?" Celestia asked. "Me"? Fluttershy gasped in shock that the Princess was adressing her, but quickly composed herself. "Yes your highness". Celestia smiled. "I understand from Twilight Sparkle's letters that you enjoy tending to the needs of woodland creatures." Fluttershy nodded happily. "Yes, I love to take care of animals." Fluttershy stated. "As do I. As Princess, I care deeply about all creatures, great and small." Princess Celestia responed. All of a sudden there was the sound of a cough, it was the Fluttershy noticed the golden bird cage next to the Princess. "Nothing means more to me than the well-being of all my subjects." Princess Celestia continued. The cough was heard again, and this time Princess Celestia noticed it. "Ah, Philomena, my pet. You're awake. Do say hello to our gracious hosts." From inside the cage rose a very strange, and very sick looking bird. It coughed, and sputtered, and it's eyes were drooping. Fluttershy stared in shock. "She is quite a sight, isn't she?". Princess Celestia stated. "I've never seen anything like her". Fluttershy replied still worried about the codition the bird was in. Just then one of the guards came up to Princess Celestia, and whispered something into her ear. "Really"? She asked. The guard nodded. "Well if we must". Princess Celestia stated before adressing everyone in the room. "I'm sorry, everypony. I'm afraid I have to cut the party short. The mayor has requested an audience with me. Royal duty calls. Thank you for a wonderful time. It's been a joy getting to know you all better." She stated as she began to live. "Phew finally I can eat something". Applejack sighed in relief only for all the food to be taken. Fourtently Mr. Cake gave her some stuff to take home with her. Pinkie Pie happily twriled out of the cafe, while Rarity made her way out, making sure to warn anypony who dared get close to her dress to stay back. "Stay right where you are. All I want is a clear path to the exit. Nobody move and my dress won't get hurt! Stay back! Back, I say!" She thretened. Sweetie Belle on the other hoof apologized to everypony Rarity was rude too, and followed her elder sister, with Scootaloo following close behind. As soon as everyone was gone Twilight sighed, and turned to Spike, and Reiner. "Well you two I don't know for sure how things went with the princess, but at least no big disasters happened." She said complety unaware that someone had unlocked the bird cage, and Philomena was missing. Fluttershy quickly and quietly made her way back to her cottage. She was beyond worried having taken Princess Celestia's pet without permission, but the poor thing was so sick that Fluttershy couldn't just sit back and do nothing. "Oh deer, I know I'm doing something wrong, but I can't just sit and do nothing while this poor creature suffers". She thought to herself. Just then she spotted Bertholdt walking along. "Perfect, Bertholdt can help me with this". Fluttershy quickly made her way over to the pegasus stallion. "Bertholdt". She called out. Bertholdt turned around. "Oh hey Fluttershy, what's wrong"? He asked before noticing Philomena. His eyes widened in shock. "Is that Princess Celestia's pet"? Fluttershy nodded. "Why do you have it"?! Bertholdt asked. "She's so sick, look at her Bertholdt I can't just sit by and do nothing while an animal suffers". Fluttershy replied. "Okay I know, but why didn't you ask the Princess for permission"? Bertholdt asked again to which Fluttershy replied. "She was clearly busy, and had no time. Please Bertholdt I need your help. "Woah woah woah Fluttershy do not get me involed in this." Bertholdt replied. However Fluttershy gave him her biggest sad puppy dog eyes she could make. "Pwease". She said doing a little lip quiver as well. Bertholdt's face turned red, and he sighed, "Fine". He replied. Almost immeiditly Fluttershy gave him a big hug. "Oh thank you so much"! She squeeled happily making Bertholdt smile. Currently Publicly Availble Imformation Phionex: A magical bird with beautiful red and oranges feathers. When they reach the end of their lives they loose the feathers, and burst into flames only to be reborn from the ashes. Fluttershy, and Bertholdt arrived back at Fluttershy's cottage with Philomena. "Oh, you poor little thing. How did you ever get in such bad condition? Don't you worry, Philomena. I'll nurse you back to health. As a favor to the princess, who's obviously just far too busy to care for you properly." Fluttershy said. Bertholdt was still nervous about the whole thing, wondering if it really was a good idea. "Fluttershy I'm still not so sure about this, I mean what if the Princess comes looking for her pet"? He asked. Fluttershy however was too focused on making Philomena feel better, that she didn't even think about the consqunces that might await her. "I'm sure the princess will appreciate the help." Fluttershy stated as Philomeana just gagged, and coughed. "Oh my we better get you to bed right away". Fluttershy said as she turned to Bertholdt. "Hand me that thermometer please". she asked. Berthodlt looked to where Fluttershy was pointing and grabbed what she asked for. "Here you are, but Fluttershy". Fluttershy didn't listen. She quickly put Philomeana into bed, but an icepack on her head, and the thermomneter in her mouth. This however coused Philomeana to overheat. Panicking Fluttershy took put the thermomenter, but now Philomeana was too cold. Fluttershy kept putting the thermomenter in and out of Philomeana's mouth until it ended up broken. "This is far worse than I thought. What you need is some medicine. Stat!" Fluttershy stated. She turned to Bertholdt. Nurse Hoover please go into my cabient, and fetch me the pill." Bertholdt blushed in embarssment at being called Nurse, but payed no mind to it as he got what Fluttershy asked for. Fluttershy took the pill, and set it on a plate for Philomena. "Here you go, Philomena. This will fix you right up." She said. Philomena took one snif of the pill, and gagged. "Doctor Fluttershy expected that." Fluttershy stated. "Well what are you gonna do now"? Asked Bertholdt. "Don't you worry, I have a plan." Fluttershy then proceeded to pour an entire bag of bird seed onto the plat to cover the pill. Seeing the bird feed Philomena instantaly ate it all. Fluttershy turned to Bertholdt, and smirked. "Always works". She sad smugly. "Um, are you sure about that"? Bertholdt asked. "What do you mean"? Fluttershy questioned before gasping. Philomena had manged to eat all the bird seed, but not the pill. "Well it almost always works. But don't worry I have another idea". She said. "What's that"? Asked Bertholdt" But again Fluttershy ignored him, and went into the kitchen. Bertholdt just sighed, and decieded to wait. After about 25 minutes Fluttershy returned with a bowl of soup. "There's nothing like homemade soup to cure what ails you." She said. However when she presented the soup to Philomena the bird just turned away. "Come on now. You're not gonna get better if you don't cooperate." Fluttershy stated, but no matter what Fluttershy did Philomena refused to eat the soup. But Fluttershy wasn't going to give up. "Mmm... see? It's delicious. Good and good for you." But Philomena still wouldn't eat the soup. So Fluttershy tried another tatic. "Here comes the choo-choo train. Chugga-chugga, chugga-chugga, whoo-whoo!" Pilomena kept turing away not wanting to eat the soup. Eventually she made herself so disy that her act fell into the bowl. "Oh dear. Don't worry, Philomena. I know what'll make you feel better. Wait right here. I have just the thing." Fluttershy said as she left. "Now where are you going"? Asked Bertholdt. "Don't worry I'll be right back". Fluttershy stated as she went outside. A Few minutes later she returned with another small little bird. "How is that going to help"? Asked Bertholdt. "Just watch". Fluttershy replied as she went over to Philomena with the bird. "Look, Philomena. I brought a fellow feathered friend by to cheer you up. Hummingway here was sick once too, but he let me help him and got better in no time. Didn't you, boy"? Hummingway nodded and flew over to Philomena who actually smiled as Hummingway nuzzled up aganist Philomena's neck "Aww I think he likes you". Fluttershy stated. "Yeah that's the first time I've seen Philomena smile today". Bertholdt replied as Hummingway flew next to Fluttershy, and the two began harmonzing. "You're turn Philomena". Fluttershy encourged. However Philomena just threw up in Fluttershy's face. "Oh Um... good try?" She chuckled nervously. "Do you have any other ideas". Bertholdt asked. "Of course I do, now follow me". Fluttershy replied. They went into the bathroom. "What could help Philomena in here"? Bertholdt asked. "Oh you'll see Bertholdt". Fluttershy answered as she turned to face Philomena. " I know what'll clear up that tickle in your throat. A humidifier." Fluttershy then took a deep breath. "Refresing, wouldn't you agree Bertholdt"? She asked. Bertholdt also took a deep breath in. "Yes you're right it is". He replied. Fluttershy smiled, and turned to Philomena. "How's that feeling now for you, Philomena? Better?" She asked. Philomena took a deep breath, but then coughed again. Bertholdt looked down in dismay as it seemed nothing was working, but Fluttershy refused to give up. "Oh... that's okay. I know lots of other ways to take care of you. Don't worry. You're gonna get better. How about... Aromatherapy?" That didn't work. "A Warm bath"? That also failed. She even tried ointment, but nothing worked. Later Fluttershy was attempting to reatach some of the feathers that had fallen off of Philomena with Angel Bunny assisting her. "Scalpel. Surgical tape. Feathers." Angel gave Fluttershy all the things she asked for, and she began to put Philomena's feathers back on, but alais like all of Fluttershy's other attempts to help Celestia's pet, this one also failed. "Oh, Philomena. I thought it would be easy to nurse you back to health. I've tried everything I know. And look at you. You're worse than ever." Fluttershy sighed. "Maybe we should just take her to an actual vet to see if they can do anything". Bertholdt suggested. Fluttershy was about to respond when there was a knock at the door. Bertholdt peeked out the window to see who it was, and he gasped in shock, and fear. "What's wrong"? Fluttershy asked. "It's Twilight, and Reiner". Bertholdt stated. Fluttershy gasped. She quietly made her way next to Bertholdt, but before either of them could do anything, the door flung open, and both Reiner, and Twilight walked in. "Hello Bertholdt". Twilight said. "Um hi Twilight, hello Reiner". Bertholdt said nervously. "You good man"? Reiner asked seeing that Bertholdt was nervous about someting. Bertholdt just chuckled, as Twilight looked over at Fluttershy. "Hi, Fluttershy! Reiner, and I just wanted to drop by and say thank you so very much for making such a good impression on the princess today... However Twilight stopped, and gasped when she saw Philomena on the table. "Twilight, are you okay"? Reiner asked. But then he saw Philomena too. "What is Celestia's pet doing here?!" Twilight asked. "Would you two care to explain"? Reiner inquired. "It was my fault. I was the one who took Philomena, and I asked Bertholdt to help me". Fluttershy explained. "But why"? Reiner asked. "I couldn't leave the poor thing there. She needed my help." Fluttershy explained. That was when Twilight began to panic. "Oh no. Nonononononono! This is bad". She stated. "How could I just walk away and not do anything?" Fluttershy argued. "But... but... she doesn't belong to you!" Twilight scolded. "I had to do something". Fluttershy stated firmly. "Without telling anypony?! Without asking permission?!" Twilight asked. "Twilight calm down". Reiner stated as he looked back at Fluttershy. "Fluttershy listen to me, I know you had good intentions, but you have got to return the princess's pet!" "But". Fluttershy was about to argue but looked back and saw how Philomena looked. She sighed. "You're right". Reiner smiled, glad that Fluttershy was willing to listen to him. Twilight calmed down after hearing Fluttershy say that. "If we hurry, we can put her back before anypony even realizes she's missing." Twilight said as she went to the door, however as soon as she opened it, she was faced to face with to members of the royal guard. Luckily Bertholdt had thought quickly and put Philomena in a basic, and covered her up as one of the guards began to speak. "We were told we could find Twilight Sparkle here." The first one said. Twilight just stared at the two of them as the other began to talk. "We regret to inform you, miss, that the royal pet has gone missing." The second one said. Twilight chuckled nervously at this. "Really? You don't say". All of sudden from inside the box Philomena coughed. Thinking quickly Twilight coughed as well. Soon she, Fluttershy, Reiner, and Bertholdt all started coughing in an attempt to hide the fact that Philomena was there. "Gee, the air sure is dry". Reiner stated. "Yeah, it's that dry night air". Twilight replied. "But it's day". Fluttershy pointed out. "Well... day air's even drier". Twilight told her. She then turned back to the guards. "You guards better be on your way if you're gonna find the princess's missing pet. Philomena, was it? Thank you ever so much for keeping me in the loop. Bye!" She said as she closed the door. "That was close". Bertholdt stated. "I'll say, we're going to have to". Twilight stopped when she noticed Fluttershy heading towards the door with Philomena and Reiner. "What are you two doing"?! She demanded. "Going to return Philomena". Fluttershy replied. "We can't now"! Twilight stated. "Why not"? Asked Reiner. "You have no idea what the princess is gonna do if she finds you two are the ones who took her pet, do you?!" Twilight said pointing to Fluttershy, and Bertholdt. "Do you"? Asked Bertholdt. "Well... no. But it can't be anything good. She might banish you from Equestria. Or throw you in a dungeon. Or banish you and then throw you in a dungeon in the place that she banishes you to!" Twilight said. "Do you really think she'd do that"? Fluttershy asked. "Of course not, Twilight you're overreacting". Reiner stated. "Am I Reiner, Am I"? Twilight asked only to recivce a glare from Reiner. "Okay maybe you're right, that probably won't happen. But still do any of you wanna take that chance"? Twilight. Reiner just sighed. "Alright, I guess you have a point, but what are we gonna do now"? He asked. "I.... Don't know". Twilight responed. "What do you two think"? She asked turning to Fluttershy, and Bertholdt. "All that really matters to me is that poor little Philomena here gets well." Fluttershy replied. "That's very noble of you. I'll write to you when you're banished. Unless I'm banished to somewhere there's no post office. Then you'll have to write to me. Deal?" Twilight replied. Reiner rolled his eyes. Fluttershy then looked at the two of them. "Please you two You just have to help me get Philomena healthy and then we can return her to the princess. And everything will be fine." She told them. They both looked at her. "Fluttershy". Twilight began, but stopped when she saw the puppy dog eyes Fluttershy was giving them. Twilight sighed, and stared at Philomena. "Did you give her any kind of Medicane"? Reiner asked. "I tried to, but she wouldn't take it." Fluttershy replied. This made Twilight groan. "Then you have to make her take it. You can't be such a pushover, Fluttershy! You need to show this patient who's the boss. Make her straighten up and fly right!" "She can't fly"! Fluttershy pointed out. "No excuese"! Twilight said firmly. She then pop Philomena's mouth open, and dropped the pill inside which Philomena had no choice but to swallow. "Done, anything else"? Twilight asked. "Well, she keeps pulling her feathers off. The ones that haven't fallen out yet from all her coughing, I mean.". Bertholdt informed. Twilight then put a cone on Philomena's head. "There you go". She said. "Twilight are you sure that will help"? Reiner asked. "Oh don't worry Reiner everything's going to be fine. She said before turning back to Fluttershy, and Bertholdt. "What do you guys think"? She asked them. "I don't think she likes the cone"? Fluttershy replied. "Tough love, baby. You want her to get well, don't you?" "Of course but". Fluttershy began "Next"! Twilight intterupted. "Well, she desperately needs some bed rest, but I can't get her to stay put." Fluttershy replied. Twilight simply tripped Philomena. "One step ahead of you". She smirked. Philomena was placed inside a birdcage. She had a blanket draped over her, and she was not happy. "It's for your own good, Philomena, I promise. Please, just relax and try to get some sleep." Fluttershy begged. Meanwhile Twilight was over by the soup that Fluttershy had made eariler. "What's this soup over here? Smells delicious." Twilight stated. "I made it for Philomena, but she wouldn't eat it". Fluttershy replied. "Oh she's defenitly going to eat it". Twilight stated. She then walked over to the cage, pulled off the cover, opened , and presented the bowl to Philomena. However as soon as Philomena saw the soup, she scremed, and ran out of the cage. "Hey where are you going"?! Twilight shouted. Philomena just ran out the door. "No Philoeman come back"! Fluttershy shouted as she, Twilight, and Reiner ran after her. "Come on Bertholdt"! Reiner called out. "Oh um right"! Bertholdt replied as he follwed. Philomean ran past Sweet Apple Acres. Then around a tree. She moved a cross some clothelines as two memebers of the Royal Guard were asking a stalion if he had seen her, to which he shook his head no. She even disgued herself by putting on a mustache and reading a newspaper. Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Fluttershy came up to her. Twilight and Fluttershy were fooled by the disguse and asked Philomena if she had seen herself, to which she shurgged. The chase went on for a few more moments until Rainbow Dash noticed what was happening. Curious she flew after them. "What are you guys doing? She asked. "What does it look like"? Reiner asked in return. Rainbow Dash thought for a moment. "Are you having a race? Oh, can I play? One, two, three, go!" She exclaimed. Reiner just groaned as they met up with Pinkie Pie, Sweetie Belle, Applejack, Scootaloo, and Rarity. Fluttershy then lifted Pinkie Pie off the ground. "Excuse me". She said. "Hiya"! Pinkie Pie replied chipperly. Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt did the same thing to Rarity, and Applejack. "Beg your pardon". Twilight apologized. "Put me down". Rarity demanded. "Sorry". Reiner said. "What in tarnation"? Asked Applejack. They all looked at Fluttershy, Reiner, Twilight, and Bertholdt in confusion. "What are you doing"? Asked Sweetie Belle. "Yeah ya'll are acting crazier then a bronking bull with a hernia". Applejack stated only for her to recive puzzled looks from the others. "If Granny Smith said that you all would have lost your minds laughing". She pointed out. Fluttershy then spoke up. "Sorry, but we've gotta find..." But she was intterupted by the voice of one of the Royal Guard Members. "The Princess pet bird"! He exclaimed. Everyone looked up to see Philomean on top of the fountain. "Philomena, come down from there! You'll hurt yourself!" Fluttershy exclaimed. And like Fluttershy feared Philoeman fell off the fountain. Fluttershy gasped in horror. "I'll catch you"! She shouted as she rushed over to try and stop Philomena from falling. Unfourntenly before Fluttershy could catch Philomean the bird bursted into flames. Everyone gasped in horror, as Fluttershy caught the ashes. Her eyes filled with tears. "Oh no". Bertholdt muttered just as Princess Celestia arrived. "What's going on here"? She demanded. "Twilight"? Twilight sighed. "Yes Princess there's been a terrible accident. "It was my fault". Fluttershy stated only for Twilight to intterupt. "No, Princess. Fluttershy didn't know any better. It was my fault." She said. "But I'm the one who did it". Fluttershy pointed out. "But you were only trying to help". Twilight remided her. "Some help I was". Fluttershy stated. "Will ya let me do this? She'll go easier on me." Twilight begged. "But it's my fault". Fluttershy argued. "No it's my fault"! Twilight argued back. "No it's my fault". Pinkie Pie suddendly exclaimed before looking at everyone in confusion. "Wait what are we talking about again?" "I honestly have no idea". Scootaloo stated. Finally Fluttershy sighed. "Thanks for trying to protect me, Twilight, but..." Fluttershy walked up to Princess Celestia. "Princess Celestia, I'm the one who took your pet bird. I really was only trying to help the poor little thing. Then I was gonna bring it right back to you, honest. So, if you wanna banish me and then throw me in a dungeon in the place that you banish me to, then that's what I deserve." She said sadly. "I helped her, so punish me too". Bertholdt pointed out. Fluttershy gasped. She was about to say something when Reiner spoke up as well. "So did I". "And me". Twilight responed sadly. Princess Celestia didn't say anything. She walked over to the ashes, and looke down. Then a small smile spread across her face. "Oh, stop fooling around, Philomena. You're scaring everypony." She said. All of a sudden sparks flew around the ashes as the floated up into the air, the was a burst, and out of the ashes came a new bird. This one was different from Philomena it was covered in beautiful orange and red feathers, and was clearly very healthy. The other poines looked on in shock, and cofusion, espsecaily Fluttershy. "I don't understand! What is that thing? What happened to Philomena?" She asked. "This is Philomena. She's quite a sight, as I said. But nothing unusual for a phoenix" Celestia said. "Isn't that right, Philomena? "What's a phoenix"? Fluttershy asked. " A phoenix is a majestic and magical bird. While it appears healthy and happy most of the time, every so often it must renew itself by shedding all of its feathers and bursting into flame." Rather melodramatic, if you ask me." Celestia whispered before continung. "It then rises from the ashes, fresh as a daisy. All just a normal part of the life cycle of a phoenix. I'm afraid mischievous little Philomena here took the occasion to have a little fun with you, Fluttershy." Celestia said before turning to her pet. Say you're sorry young lady". Philomena squaked an apolgy. Fluttershy smiled before looking back up at Princess Celestia. " So... aren't you gonna banish me? Or throw me in a dungeon? Or banish me and then throw me in a dungeon in the place that you banish me to?" She asked. "Of course not, my little pony". Princess Celestia stated. "Where on Earth would you get such an idea"? Fluttershy looked at Twilight. "I guess I have quite the imagantion". Fluttershy replied. "Fluttershy really did do everything she could to try to take care of Philomena for you." Twilight said. "And I do appreciate that your heart was in the right place, child. But all you had to do was ask me and I could have told you Philomena was a phoenix and saved you all this trouble." Celestia reminded them " I know. I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions. Next time I'll ask before taking matters into my own hooves." Fluttershy replied. "Should I write you a letter on that"? Twilight asked. "No that's qutie all right, I think I'll remember that one". Princess Celestia said as the guards brought Philomena's cage. Philomena then gave Fluttershy one of her feathers as a way to apolgize. "It's beautiful Thank you, Philomena. No hard feelings." She said. Meanwhile Rainbow Dash still wanted to make the guards laugh. Then she got an Idea. She flew up to Philomena. "Hey, you know what you should do? You should go over there and tickle them!" Philomena nodded her head, and did just that. And it worked. The guards bursted out laughing. "Yes"! Rainbow Dash Cheered. While thinking of ways to get their cutie marks, the CMCs decied to go around and ask their friends how they got theirs. There they learn a heartwarming story about friendship and how the bounds of it carry out even before said friends meet. Next Episode. The Cutie Mark Chronicles Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Fluttershy Angel Bunny Rainbow Dash Pinkie Pie Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Spike Mr. Cake Mrs. Cake Princess Celestia Rarity Sweetie Belle Lemon Hearts Cherry Berry Shoeshine Bertholdt Hoover Scootaloo Applejack Apple Bloom Amethyst Star Golden Harvest Philomena Twinkleshine Berry Punch Lyra Heartstrings Minnuette Sweetie Drops Big Macintosh Granny Smith
Episode 31: The Cutie Mark Chronicles: Gala arc Part 24Near the outskirts of ponyvile Apple Bloom was leading Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover somewhere. "Come on, it's this way". She said while on top of Reiner's shoulders. She still had a broken leg from the encounter with the bufflo herd in Appleloosa so she needed help getting around. "Woah hold on there Apple Bloom, what's so important you wanna us to see so bad"? Reiner asked. Apple Bloom just gave a cheeky smile. "I'm not telling". She said in a sing song voice. "Well are we almost there"? Asked Bertholdt. "Yep, just past these bushes". Apple Bloom replied. The three of them went through the bushes like Apple Bloom said. There Reiner, and Bertholdt saw what appeared to be a big poster with a bunch of pictures on it. "What is it"? Asked Reiner curiously. "Miss Cheerlie asked us to make a poster with our family tree, so I got a big peace of paper and started putting pictures of my family on it. Look here, there's Ma, and Daddy, Braeburn, and everypony else." Apple Bloom answered. "This is amazing Apple Bloom, did you work on it all by yourself"? Bertholdt asked. "No I had Applejack, Big Mac, and Granny Smith help out". Apple Bloom said. "So why did you want to show us this"? Asked Reiner. "Because I just wanted to". Apple Bloom replied. Ooh I even have to give a speech, can I share the one I wrote down with you"? She asked. "Of course Reiner said. Apple Bloom pulled out a peace of paper, and began to read off of it. ""Hi, my name is Apple Bloom, and I want to tell you about my family. You see I live on Sweet Apple Acers with my Grandmother, my Big Brother, and my Big Sister. Together we". All of a sudden she was intterupted by the voice of Scootaloo. "Hey Apple Bloom"! Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt all heard Scootaloo, but chose to ignore her as Apple Bloom continued. "Ahem Ahem together we". But Scootaloo called out again. "Apple Bloom where the hell are you". Reiner looked over at Apple Bloom, he could see she was getting a little frustrated, and overwhelmed. "Why don't you start over". He Suggested. Apple Bloom took a deep breath. "Okay. "Hi, my name is Apple Bloom". She started over as Scootaloo kept calling "Apple Bloom"! "And I wanna tell you". Apple Bloom continued, but no matter how hard she, Reiner, and Bertholdt tried, Scootaloo kept calling for Apple Bloom's name until the orange pegagus came out of the bushes. "Hey Apple Bloom". She said. Apple Bloom sighed, and put down her paper. "Yes Scootaloo". She said calmly, though she was clearly frustrated. "Come on, Sweetie Belle, and I are waiting for you". "Waiting for me to do what"? Apple Bloom asked. "You'll see". Scootaloo replied. "Mr. Braun, and Mr. Hoover can come as well". Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt just stared at each other before following Scootaloo. Scootaloo led Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt to another wooded area, stopping at a specfic tree. "What exactaly are we doing here"? Apple Bloom asked. "Sweetie Belle, and I thought of a perfect way for the three of us to get our cutie marks". Scootaloo replied. This sparked the other three ponies curiosty. "And what way is that"? Bertholdt asked. "Ziplining"! Scootaloo answered. Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom all looked up to the top of the tree, and saw Sweetie Belle already waiting up there. Apple Bloom looked back at Scootaloo like she was nuts. "Scootaloo did you forget I have a broken leg"?! She asked. "Of coruse not! We're not going to make you go, we just wanted you to see us in action". Scootaloo replied. "But, if you do this, and it works, then only you and Sweetie Belle will have cutie marks, and I'll be back to being to only blank flank in school dealing with Diamond Tiara." Apple Bloom replied. "Hey come on now, don't talk like that, even if Sweetie Belle, and I do get our cutie marks we are still going to be your friends no matter what." Scootaloo replied. That made Apple Bloom feel a bit better. "Alright, but be careful". She warned. "Apple Bloom's right, I'm not exaclty sure this is safe, but I know for a fact that I can't stop you". Reiner replied. Scootaloo smiled, and hoisted herself up to were Sweetie Belle was waiting. "You ready"? Scootaloo asked. Sweetie Belle looked down, and gulped nervously. "Are you sure about this, Scootaloo? I've never even heard of a pony zip lining before." She said. "Neither have I, but Spike told me it was awesome!" Scootaloo replied. Soon she and Sweetie Belle leapt off the platform, and started ziplining. Down below, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom all watched. "Wow, they seem to be doing pretty good". Bertholdt stated. "Yeah, I'll say". Reiner nodded in agreement. "Just wait, something tells me this is going to go horribly wrong". Apple Bloom pointed out, and it did. Halfway through their free fall, the rope holding up Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo snapped sending them falling to the ground. CRASH! BANG! THUD! They fell through leaves, and branches before hiting the ground. Luckily neither one of them was hurt, only covered in leaves, and sticky sap. Bertholdt, Apple Bloom, and Reiner came up to them. "Are you two alright"? Asked Apple Bloom. "Yeah, were fine". Sweetie Belle replied. "Did we get our cutie marks"? Scootaloo asked hopefully. Apple Bloom looked at their flanks, and saw that they were still blank. "No, sorry". She replied sadly, though she was a bit relieved that they didn't get their cutie marks. "Damnit"! Scootaloo cursed. "Plan B"? Sweetie Belle asked. Scootaloo nodded. "Yeah. You know where we can find a cannon at this hour?" She asked. Everyone just looked at her, and she immeidtly relaized the audacity of what she said. "It's no use! No matter what we try, we always end up without our cutie marks. And, surprisingly often, covered in tree sap." "Maybe we should do something less dangerous, like pillow testing or flower sniffing." Sweetie Belle said. "This town is full of of ponies who have their cutie marks. Why don't you three ask them how they did it". Reiner suggested as he gave Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle towels, and buckets to clean themselves off with. Apple Bloom smiled. "That sounds like a great, safe idea". She agreed. The other two nodded as well. "Yeah! And we can start with the coolest pony in Ponyville." Scootaloo stated. "Applejack"! Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Rarity"! Sweetie Belle cheered. Scootaloo just stared at them an rolled her eyes. "Come on, guys, I said "cool"! You know who I'm talking about. She's fast. She's tough. She's not afraid of anything!" This only guarnerd more confusion from Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom. "Pinkie Pie"? They asked in confusion which frustrated Scootaloo even more. "No! The greatest flyer ever to come out of Cloudsdale." "Fluttershy"? Both Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom guessed. "I'm pretty sure Scootaloo's talking about Rainbow Dash". Reiner stated which caused Scootaloo to throw her hooves up in relief. "THANK YOU"! She exclaimed before looking to Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle. "Yes, I was talking about Rainbow Dash". "Oh! Yeah, that makes much more sense. Apple Bloom said. "Of course". Sweetie Belle replied. Scootaloo smiled. "Let's do it. Let's find out how Rainbow Dash earned her cutie mark!" She said. "YEAH"! Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle cheered. Scootaloo went to high five them, but Apple Bloom stopped her. "Uh Scootaloo, you still have sap on your hooves." Scootaloo gave an embarrased smile and washed the sap from her hooves. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all set off on their journey to find Rainbow Dash, and ask her how she got her cutie mark. Reiner, and Bertholdt were tagging along as well. Apple Bloom was riding on Reiner's bag due to her broken leg. As they traveled all of a sudden a trio bunnies came out from some nearby bushes. Seeing them, Scootaloo quickly applied the breaks on her scooter stoping just before she struck the bunnies. "Where did they come from"? Asked Bertholdt. "I'm not sure". Scootaloo replied. All of sudden they heard the voice of Applejack yell out. "Come back here ya thievien bastards"! "Thievien what now"? Apple Bloom asked just as Applejack came charging out of the bushes. Reiner quickly got himself, and Apple Bloom out of the way, but Scootaloo, Bertholdt, and Sweetie Belle weren't so lucky. Applejack looked to see who she crashed into. and saw Reiner, and Apple Bloom standing above her. "Apple Bloom"? Applejack asked in confusion. Apple Bloom just waved. "What are ya'll doing"? Applejack asked. "Bertholdt and I are taking the CMCs to find Rainbow Dash so they can ask her how she got her cutie mark". Reiner explained. "Oh I see". Applejack said. Just then Apple Bloom got an idea. "Hey Applejack how did you get your cutie mark"? Apple Bloom asked. "I never told you the story"? Applejack said in confusion? "I know how you got your cutie mark, but I'm sure Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo would like to know how you got it". Apple Bloom stated "Hold on, I thought we we're going to ask Rainbow Dash". "We need all the help we can get". Apple Bloom replied. "But". Scootaloo began only for Apple Bloom to give Scootaloo a glare the instantly shut her up". "Fine". She sighed. Meanwhile Sweetie Belle looked at Bertholdt. "Apple Bloom can be both very sweet, and very terrifying". She stated. Bertholdt just nodded as Applejack began her story. "Why shoot, it was around five years ago when it happened, infact I was a tad bit older then ya'll". Applejack stated. "Really"? Sweetie Belle asked in amazment. "That's right". Applejack said as she remembered back to that day. (845) Applejack, with a bag over her back walked away from Sweet Apple Acres, as Granny Smith, Big Mac, their parents, and a younger Apple Bloom looked on with saddend looks on their faces. "I didn't want to spend my life on a muddy old apple farm. I wanted to live the sophisticated life, like my Aunt n' Uncle Orange. So I set out to try my luck in the big city, Manehattan! The most cosmopolitan city in all of Equestria." . Applejack Stated "Wait a mintue"! Reiner intterupted causing everyone to look at him. "Yes Mr. Braun"? Asked Applejack. "If you were just a child then how did you get all to Manehatten by yourself"? Reiner asked. "I took a train, and bought a ticket of course". Applejack replied. "Oh". Reiner stated. "May I continue"? Asked Applejack. "Carry on". Reiner said. "Anyways". Applejack began again. Young Applejack walked through the large streets of Manehatten staring in awe of the tall buldings, and lights. However the residents of the city weren't all that friendly. "How out of the way you rube"! One said coldly. Young Applejack shurnk down ofter being yelled at, but she carried on, and eventually she came to the building where her Aunt, and Uncle Lived. "I knew I'd find out who I was meant to be in Manehattan". She narrated. Applejack walked inside the building, and found Aunt, and Uncle Oranges appartment. The two of them were delighted to see her when they opened the door. "Aunt Orange! Uncle Orange! Thank y'all so much for lettin' me stay! Young Applejack said in delight". "Y'all". Aunt Orange Laughed. "Isn't she just the living end?" "How Quaint". Uncle Orange Replied. Aunt Orange then turned to the Young Applejack. "Don't worry. We'll have you acting like a true Manehattanite in no time." She reassured. Sometime later Young Applejack was attending a dinner party with her aunt, and uncle, as well as their fancy friends. Applejack herself now had her hair fixed up in a new fancy fancy style just like her Aunt Orange. Applejack put on a smile, but deep down she was extremly nervous, after all these weren't ponies like her folks back home. She needed to behave just like them. Suddenly one of the fancy ponies spoke to her. "And how are you finding good old Manehattan?" He asked Applejack curiously. "Oh, it's simply divine." Young Applejack replied. Aunt Orange smiled. "Excellent work dear". She complemented as Applejack continued. "Although, I must admit the city noise took some getting used to. Where I'm from, nights are so quiet, you seldom hear a peep until the roosters wake you." Young Applejack explained. This however garnerd her confused looks from the others. "The...... What"? One asked. "I say, my dear, what in the world is a "rooster"? The pony that first spoke the her asked. Applejack realizing she screwed tried to think of a way out of her current situation. "What's he talking about? What do I say? I don't wanna look like a fool. She thought to herself. She was just about to come up with a reply when she was litterley saved by the bell. "Dinner is served". The waiter said. Applejack sighed in relief. "Finally I'm so hungry I could eat a". However she stopped when she saw that on her plate was just a very small piece of something she didn't even know what it was. Sometime later young Applejack was looking out her window feeling rather sad. "Cock-a-doodle- doo I wonder what the family's doing right now. I bet they're applebuckin' their way through the Red Delicious trees. Oh, what I wouldn't give for just one bite..." She said sadly. "I never felt so homesick in all my days as I did right then." Applejack narrated. All of a sudden there was a huge explosion, Applejack looked out the window, and saw a rainbow pointing right in the direction of Sweet Apple Acres. Knowing what she had to do Applejack ran all the way home and was reunited with Granny Smith and Big Macintosh who hugged her titley as her Cutie Mark Appeared. "It was amazin'! A rainbow pointin' right back to... home. In that moment, it all became clear. I knew right then just who I was supposed to be. That's when this here appeared." She narrated. "I've been working on the farm ever since". Applejack finished, but then she looked down sadly. "Of course, when I got back, that was when I learned about Ma, and Pa". She said. Apple Bloom looked down as well, remebering that day. Applejack seeing this put a comforting hoof on Apple Bloom's shoulder's. Just then the bunnies returned and blew raseberrries at Applejack. "There they are! Get back here, ya thievin' varmints!" Applejack shouted as she chased after the bunnies leaving the Crusaders, and Warriors behind. "Aw. That was such a sweet story!" Sweetie Belle said. "Sweet? You mean sappy, ugh". Scootaloo replied. Come on you guys let's find Rainbow Dash and learn the cool way to earn a cutie mark"! Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were about to rush off, but looked back to see that Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt weren't following them. "Are you three coming"? Sweetie Belle asked. When Apple Bloom didn't respond she and Scootaloo went to check to see what they were doing. Apple Bloom looked up. "Oh sorry I was just thinking about Applejack's story, but anyways let's go see Rainbow Dash". Apple Bloom smiled. Sweetie Belle just looked at her confused. "Oooookay". She said befoe hoping back in the wagon. Scootaloo then sped off. "Slow down"! Reiner called out as he Apple Bloom, and Bertholdt followed after them. Currently Publicly Availbe Information Flight School. A school in Cloudsdale where Pegasi go in order to train on how to be better fliers throughout Equestria. Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom traveled across the road trying to get find Rainbow Dash, and find out about her cutie mark story. Soon they came across Fluttershy's cottage. As Scootaloo drove her scooter closer all of sudden Fluttershy appeared right in front of her. Scootaloo tried to stop, but her scooter hit a bump sending both her and Sweetie Belle flying into the air, and landing infront of Fluttershy. Apple Bloom saw this and couldn't help but giggle, this made Bertholdt, and Reiner smile while Sweeite Belle, and Scootaloo just glared. Fluttershy however simply looked to her left, and spoke. "All right, little ones. This way. This way." She said to some ducklings before turning back to Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "You two should be more careful someone could get hurt". "Good moring Fluttershy". Reiner greeted. "Hello Reiner, Bertholdt, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo where are you off ot in such a hurry"? Fluttershy asked. "We're trying to find Rainbow Dash, so we can hear how she earned her cutie mark." Scootaloo replied. "Oh, that would be interesting. You know, I wouldn't have gotten my cutie mark if it weren't for her." Fluttershy stated, this peaked Scootaloo's interest. "Really, Rainbow Dash helpe you get your cutie mark"? "Yep". Fluttershy replied. "Tell us please". Scootaloo begged. Fluttershy blinked in confusion. "Well it's kind of a long story, and I don't wanna bore you". "You won't bore us Fluttershy, and plus we need to get all the help we can get". Apple Bloom replied. Fluttershy thought for a bit. "Well..... Alright she said. "It all started in Summer Flight Camp. (845) Fluttershy thought back to when she was living in cloudsdale. She was getting ready to take a flying test. "You'd never guess, but when I was little I was very shy. And a very weak flyer. Fluttershy narrated. Young Fluttershy was doing a training excersie that involved needing to fly through some cloud shaped hoops in the air. She watched as two other fillies flew through the hoops. Then it was her turn. Young Fluttershy used all of her stregeth to lift herself off the ground. However when she got to the first hoop she tripped, and fell, sliding down a cloud shapped hill, and crashing into to a flag pole. Then she heard laughing. Young Fluttershy looked up to see Young Hoops, Dumbell, and Score laughing at her. "Nice going, "Klutzershy"! They oughtta ground you permanently." Young Dumbell teased. "Ha! My baby brother can fly better than you!" Hoops sneered. Young Fluttershy felt terrible. " It was the most humiliating moment of my life. And then, out of nowhere..." She narrated. With a zip, and a woosh, Young Rainbow Dash came flying into the scene. She was very cross. "Leave her alone". She yelled at the bullies, but they just laughed at her. "Ooh, what are you gonna do, "Rainbow Crash"?" Asked Young Hoops. "Keep making fun of her and find out". Youn Rainbow Dash replied. The bullies just sneered. "You think you're such a big shot? Why don't you prove it?" Young Dumbell stated. This peaked young Rainbow Dash's curioisty. "Whaddya have in mind?" She asked. "A Race around the obsetcal course". Young Hoops answered. "And what does the winner get"? Young Rainbow Dash asked. "If you win, we'll leave both of you alone forever". Young Dumbell stated. "But when we win you and Klutzershy have to leave flight camp forever". Young Hoops stated ominusaly. I had never been more nervous in my life, those three bullies were very cruel, however while I was cowering in fear Rainbow Dash eyed them directly, and accepted their challange. Fluttershy narrated. "You're on". Young Rainbow Dash said. Later everyone had gather around to witness the race between Rainbow Dash, and the Bullies. "You're going down"! Young Hoops stated. "In history, maybe." Young Rainbow Dash smirked. "See you at the finish line"! Young Fluttershy stood on another cloud with a checkered flag, she waited for the right moment, and then she waved the flag, singling the start of the race. Young Rainbow Dash, and the bullies set off, however their speed ended up causing Young Fluttershy to get knocked off the cloud she was standing on. Because she was a weak flyer Young Fluttershy couldn't save herself. She closed her eyes and prepared for the end. However a down bellow a flock of butterflies could see Fluttershy was in danger, and they quickly moved in to form a form of net to catch her. It worked, and Young Fluttershy was saved. I had never seen such beautiful creatures. Butterflies don't fly as high as my cloud home. And I'd never been near the ground before. Fluttershy told The Crusaders, and Warriors. Indeed it was. The butterflies began to carry young Fluttershy as if to show her the world on the ground. She was amazed by all the creatures she saw, birds, squriells, chipmunks, and bunnies everywhere. It was so wonderful, that Young Fluttershy couldn't help but start singing about them. What is this place Filled with so many wonders? Casting its spell That I am now under Squirrels in the trees And the cute little bunnies Birds flying free And bees with their honey Hooooonneeeeeeey! Oooh, what a magical place And I owe it all to the Pegasus race If I knew the ground had so much up its sleeve I'd have come here sooner, and never leave Yes, I love ev-er-ythiiiiing! The animals all cheered, the loved Fluttershy's song, when all of a sudden there was a massive explosion. Young Fluttershy looked up, and saw a shockwave of color in the sky. The noise of the explosion however also frightened her new animal friends, and they all went to hide. Remembering how they had helped her Young Fluttershy decieded to return the favor. First she went to a bush where three trembling bunnies were. "Shhh. It's okay." She said. Then she went to a squriel nest in a tree. "You can come out." She told them. "Everything's okay". she said to the frogs. "There's nothing to be afraid of". She told the birds. Soon all the animals came out. They felt comfort, and warmth with Young Fluttershy. It was as if they knew no matter what they could realy on her, and everything would be okay as she would protect them. "Somehow I had the ability to communicate with the animals on a different level." Young Fluttershy's cutie mark then appeared. However after the story there was one question on Scootaloo's mind. "Wait, wait, wait. What happened to Rainbow Dash? What about the race?" She asked. "Oh. Well, I wasn't there, so I don't really know what happened." Fluttershy replied. Scootaloo frowned hearing that. She looked back at the others. "Come on you guys we have to find Rainbow Dash, besides I can't take anymore singing". She stated. "Maybe Rarity knows where Rainbow Dash is". Sweetie Belle got into the wagon. Scootaloo then sped off. "See you later Fluttershy". Reiner said as he Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom followed after Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle. "Bye you guys". Fluttershy said. Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom followed Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo close behind. "Man Scootaloo really wants to here Rainbow Dash's Cutie Mark Story". Bertholdt stated. "I'll say, but then again she does look up to Rainbow Dash". Reiner stated. "Still she didn't have to be rude". Apple Bloom muttered, however Reiner heard her. "What was that"? He asked. Apple Bloom sighed. "She said Applejack's story was too sappy". "Ah, I see, and that upset you, but why might I ask"? Asked Reiner. "Our parents died before Applejack came back, the day she left was the last day she saw them alive". Apple Bloom. explained. "Oh, I see". Reiner stated. "Bertholdt and I haven't seen our parents for five years now, so we don't know if they're alive or not". "Oh I'm so sorry". Apple Bloom said sadly. "Anyways let's change the subject. Apple Bloom what did you think of Fluttershy's story"? Bertholdt asked. "I thought it was very sweet, I loved how Fluttershy was able to help the animals feel better after the explosion". Apple Bloom answered. "Me too". Bertholdt replied. "I kind of hope we here Rarity's Cutie Mark story as well, and Twilight's, and Pinkie Pie's. Apple Bloom said. "I'd honestly love to here their stories too, but I'm not to sure about Scootaloo". Reiner stated Apple Bloom giggled. "Yeah, she only wants to huh"? Apple Bloom stopped, she looked into the distance. There standing in between the trees seemed to be the same little pegagus filly Apple Bloom had first saw in her dream the day of Diamond Tiara's cute-cenenara, and when she, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo went after Fluttershy's chicken when she watched them. "Apple Bloom"! Reiner's voiced snapped Apple Bloom out of her trance. "Are you okay"? He asked. Apple Bloom looked up to see the filly was gone. "Yeah, I just thought I saw something". She replied. "What was it"? Reiner asked. "Oh, um nothing". Apple Bloom stated. "Okay". Reiner said droping the subject. Soon the arrived at the Carosuel Boutique. Sweetie Belle hopped out of the wagon and opened the door. "Rarity are you home"? She asked. "Yes Sweetie Belle what brings you here". Rarity asked as she walked into the room, Oh I see you brought Scootaloo, and Apple Bloom, as well as Mr. Braun, and Mr. Hoover. I'm glad you're her actually. "How come"? Asked Reiner. "Because I need the girls help with some designs I'm making." Rarity replied. "What but we don't" Scootaloo began to say only for Apple Bloom to intterupt her. "We'd be happy to help Miss. Rarity". Apple Bloom stated. The CMCs, Bertholdt, and Reiner followed Rarity up the stairs to her dressing room. There she had Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo stand on a platform of some sorts while she meassured them and fitted them with some fabric she had made. Rarity then did the same for Apple Bloom who was sitting a more comfortable postion do to her leg, while Reiner, and Bertholdt stood off to the side. Scootaloo groaned in frustration. "How did we get roped into this? Oh, we'll never hear Rainbow Dash's story." She complained. Rarity heard this and gave a small smile. "Are you girls still obsessing over your cutie marks?" She asked. "Of course! Most of the fillies at school already have theirs." Sweetie Belle replied. "They want to hear how Rainbow Dash got her Cutie Mark". Reiner stated. "Mmm, I know how you feel. For the longest time I couldn't figure out why I didn't have mine." Rarity replied. This made Apple Bloom perk up. "Will you tell us your Cutie Mark Story"? She asked. "I mean if you want to hear it". Rarity replied. Apple Bloom nodded exictedly. "We already heard Applejack, and Fluttershy's stories, so we might as well hear your's". Bertholdt stated. (845) At Ponyville Junior High the fillies were getting ready for the spring time peformace. Young Rarity had made serveal costumes for the students, and her teacher was very impressed. However YoungRarity wasn't too found of her work "Well done, Rarity. Your costumes are very nice." Her teacher complemented. "Nice?! They need to be spectacular! And the performance is tomorrow!" Young Rarity stated. Back at her home she tried everything she could think of to make the perfect costumes, but she couldn't come up with anything. I tried every trick I could think of, but nothing seemed to work. The costumes just weren't right, and the play opened that night. "Maybe I'm not meant to be a fashionista after all..." Young Rarity sighed. All of a sudden her horn began to glow, then it began dragging her out of her house into an unknown direction. "Aah! What's going on?!" Young Rarity shrieked in a panic. She tried to fight her horn, and get control over her body back, but she gave up, and decieded to just let her horn take her where it wanted to take her. "I had no idea where my horn was taking me. But unicorn magic doesn't happen without a reason. I knew this had to do with my love of fashion and maybe even my Cutie Mark! I knew that this was... My destiny!" She narrted. Young Rarity's horn dragged her across ponyvile, through a field, through a dessert, over some hills, through a gorge. Until finally it found it's destination. Young Rarity looked up, and saw a big, gigantic........ Rock. It was a rock, a plan simple rock. To say Young Rarity wasn't impress would have been an understatment. "A rock?! That's my destiny?! What is your problem, horn? I followed you all the way out here for a rock?!" She shouted. She then groaned in frustration. "Dumb Rock"! She shouted. All of a sudden there was a loud bang from the sky, Young Rarity shrieked and backed away in fear, she looked up to see a multitude of colar admiting from the sky. The force of the explosion also caused the rock to split in two. Young Rarity looked at the rock, and saw that inside of if where many kinds of jewels, and gemestones. Young Rarity smiled she knew what she needed to do. She took many gemestones back home with her, and started putting them on her costumes. Later that night The peformace was a sucess. Everypony loved the costumes Young Rarity's teacher smiled, and Young Rarity's Cutie Mark Appeared. After the story Scootaloo was much more annoyed. "Ugh! These namby-pamby stories aren't getting us any closer to our cutie marks! They're all about finding who you really are and boring stuff like that." She groaned. "Maybe that's what getting a Cutie Mark is about". Apple Bloom stated. Rarity nodded in agreement. "Yes Scootaloo, Apple Bloom is". However Scootaloo didn't want to listen, she wanted to here Rainbow Dash's story. "Come on, girls! We need action! We need Rainbow Dash!" She said leaving the boutique Sweetie Belle following her. Reiner sighed. "She only thinks about action, and not stragety". He said. "Yeah, she thinks the only way to get her Cutie Mark is the cool way, and not the important way". Bertholdt replied. "Well that's just how she is. At least you know that getting your Cutie Mark takes patieces Apple Bloom". Rarity stated. "I know but I still wish I had it, and then I could stop worrying about Diamond Tiara". Apple Bloom replied. "Oh darling you know you don't have to be afraid of Diamond Tiara especialy when you have the friends you do". Rarity said. Apple Bloom smiled. "Thank you Miss Rarity". She stated. "You're most welcome". Rarity replied. "Well we better catch up with the two of them Reiner said. "Yes, have a good day you three". Rarity stated. "Bye Miss Rarity". Apple Bloom waved. Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt left the boutique, and began to search for Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo when all of a sudden Apple Bloom spotted Twilight Sparkle over by the cafe. "Reiner, Bertholdt I see Twilight." She said. Reiner, and Bertholdt looked over, and saw Twilight as well. "Let's go ask her how she got her Cutie Mark"! Apple Bloom said excitedly. Reiner thought for a bit. "Alright". He said. Meanwhile Sweetie Belle turned to see Reiner, Bertholdt, and Apple Bloom heading towards Twilight. "Hey Scootaloo Apple Bloom, Reiner, and Bertholdt aren't following us". She said. "What, where are they going"? Scootaloo asked. She then saw them going towards Twilight. "What are they oh they're going to ask Twilight's Cutie Mark Story." "Can we go too I kind of want to here it as well". Sweetie Belle said. Scootaloo just sighed. "Ugh fine". She said as She, and Sweetie Belle went to catch up with their friends. Twilight was sitting at a table when she heard Reiner's voice call out to her. "Twilight." Twilight looked up. "Oh hello Reiner, Bertholdt, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo what can I do for you"? She asked. "Can you tell us how you got your Cutie Mark"? Apple Bloom asked. "My Cutie Mark story, why do you want to know that"? Twilight asked in confusion. "We already heard Applejack, Fluttershy, and Rarity tell their stories, so it only makes sense to hear your's as well". Apple Bloom replied. Twilight smiled. "Of coruse I'll tell you the story of how I got my Cutie Mark". She said. "Yay"! Apple Bloom cheered as Scootaloo groaned. She then took a quick glance at Apple Bloom who gave her a smug grin. Then it hit Scootaloo. Apple Bloom had done this on purpose. "I'm going to have a word with that filly after I hear Rainbow Dash's story". Scootaloo said to herself as Twilight began her story. "As a young filly in Canterlot, I always wanted to go to the Summer Sun Celebration, where Princess Celestia raises the sun. And I saw the most amazing, most wonderful thing I've ever seen." (845) Young Twilight Sparkle pushed her way through a crowd of other ponies. She wanted to get a really good view of Princess Celestia raising the sun. Trumpets sounded, and Princess Celestia walked onto the stage. Young Twilight watched in awe, as Celestia lit up her horn, flew up, and raised the sun. It was there Young Twilight knew she wanted to study magic no matter what. I poured myself into learning everything I could about magic. She narrated. And she did. She read book after book after book. It was then her parents started to take notice of Young Twilight's efforts, and one night while she was studying they came in with a very special suprise for her. My parents decided to enroll me in Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. It was a dream come true! Except for one thing... I had to pass an entrance exam!" Twilight narrated. That entrance exam was to hatch a dragon egg with only magic. "Well Miss Sparkle". One of the teachers asked Young Twilight who only chuckled nervously, she looked to her Mom and Dad for help, and they gave her reassuring smiles. Young Twilight then started to light up her horn in order to hatch the dragon egg, but no matter how hard she tried she just couldn't get the egg to hatch, and the teachers were getting impatient. "We don't have all day". One said. All seemed lost, for Young Twilight. I knew it was the most important day of my life, that my entire future would be affected by the outcome of this day and I was about to blow it!" She narrated. Finally Young Twilight decieded to give up, the egg just wasn't hatching. "I'm sorry I wasted your time". She said sadly. As the teachers began writing on their clipboards Young Twilight just looked down tears begining to fill her eyes when all of a sudden she was startled by the sound of a loud BANG! The bang shocked her so much that a blast admited from her horn hatching the dragon egg, but that wasn't the end. Young Twilight's eyes began to glow, and she started to levitate in the air as more magic bolits of lighting admited from her. The first one hit the teachers causing them to start floating. The second one hit her parents turning them into potted plants. The last one hit Spike causing him to grow much huger then he was. That got Princess Celestia's attention. She went over to see what was going on. She arrived, and gentely put her hoof on Young Twilight's shoulder. This caused Young Twilight to calm down, and everything return to normal. "Twilight Sparkle". Princess Celestia said gentely. Thinking she was in trouble Young Twilight began to apologize. "Oh I'm so sorry I didn't mean..." However Princess Celestia Stopped her. "You have a very special gift. I don't think I've ever come across a unicorn with your raw abilities." Celestia said. This only confused Young Twilight even more. "Huh"? Was all she could muster so Princess Celestia continued. "But you need to learn to tame these abilities through focused study." "Huh"? Young Twilight said again. "Twilight Sparkle, I'd like to make you my own personal protégé here at the school." Young Twilight gave one final "Huh"? "Well"? Asked Princess Celestia. Young Twilight looked to her parents who both nodded their heads yes excitedly. Young Twilight turned to Princess Celestia. "Yes." She said jumping into the air. "One other thing Twilight". Princess Celestia said. "There's more"? Young Twilight asked falling to the ground. Princess Celestia then pointed to Twilight's flank. She looked and saw her cutie mark. "My cutie mark! Yesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyes..." Back in the present Twilight was still jumping around. "Yesyesyesyes". Until Reiner stopped her. "We get it your happy:" He said. Twilight looked around to see others staring at her. "Are you okay"? Asked a pony. Twilight chuckled nervosuly. "Yes". "So that's how you started taken care of Spike"? Apple Bloom asked. Twilight smiled at her. "Yes it as, after he hatched we took him home, and he's been like a little brother to me ever since". Twilight said. "Awwww". Apple Bloom said. "Alright, alright we heard the story, now let's go find Rainbow Dash". Scootaloo said. "See you Twilight". Bertholdt said. "Goodbye". Twilight replied. The girls, along with Bertholdt, and Reiner went through ponyville trying to find Rainbow Dash. Scootaloo was growing more, and more frustrated. Why is this happening, I just wanted to hear Rainbow Dash's Cutie Mark story, but we keep getting stopped, and it's all because Apple Bloom wanted to hear all those boring stories". Scootaloo said to herself. They kept going when Apple Bloom once again got curious. "Hey Reiner, Bertholdt how did you get your Cutie Marks, they look quite interesting considering how similar they look". Apple Bloom said. This actually got both Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo's attention. "Really"? Scootaloo asked. "Yeah". Apple Bloom replied. For example the main part of their Cutie Marks happen to have the same star symbol your Warrior bandana's have". She said to Bertholdt, and Reiner. "However Reiner's cutie mark has a shield I think representing his strength". She said. When Apple Bloom said that Reiner remebered back to the words General Calvi Said about the Armored Titan. "As you can see, The Armored Titan is one that specializes in the hardening abilty. One slam from that body should be able to destroy both walls and gates. As a Titan who will act as Marley's shield and absorb attacks well, Braun's stoic nature fits the role. Apple Bloom then continued by analizng Bertholdt's Cutie Mark. "However Berthodlt's Cutie Mark has what looks like an explosion, but I'm not sure what that means." Apple Bloom said, but Bertholdt did. "The Colossal Titan. It is a god of destruction. We hope that Hoover can handle it. I almost feel sorry for those island devils. That thing is going to show up one day, and start killing them". "So how did you get your Cutie Marks"? Apple Bloom asked. Reiner and Bertholdt both thought back to the year 845. They remebered the parade, Annie, Marcel, Reiner trying to talk to his father, saying goodbye to his mother, Marcel being eaten, and destroying Wall Maria. Finally Reiner spoke. "I got my Cutie Mark after carrying a bunch of heavy logs on my back". He said. "And I got mine after saving some ponies from a burning house which then exploded". Bertholdt added. This amazed the Crusaders, even Scootaloo. "Wait if that happend five years ago, then you two were most likely our age". Apple Bloom stated. "How old are you three"? Reiner asked. "Twelve". The CMCs replied. "Then yeah we were". Reiner said. "Interesting Scootaloo replied. The group then continued on their way to find Rainbow Dash all the while Scootaloo was growing more, and more frustrated. "Ugh! Why don't we ever smash into Rainbow Dash?!" She groaned. All of a sudden they heard the voice of Pinkie Pie. "You're looking for Rainbow Dash?" Apple Bloom, Reiner, Bertholdt, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle turned to see Pinkie Pie in the wagon behind Sweetie Belle wearing her own helemet. "How did she"? Bertholdt began only for Reiner to stop him. "Don't question it Bertholdt, just don't." He said. Bertholdt sighed knowing Reiner was right. Pinkie Pie unaware of Reiner, and Bertholdt's curioisty continued to talk about Rainbow Dash. "If I was her, I'd be at Sugarcube Corner. Of course, if I was anyone, I'd be at Sugarcube Corner. Hey! I have an idea! Wanna go to Sugarcube Corner?" She said. "Well, we're sort of looking for Rainbow Dash, so we can hear how she got her cutie mark." Sweetie Belle explained. This made Pinkie Pie excited. "Cutie mark? Come with me and I'll tell you how I got mine!" She exclaimed. Scootaloo looked at Apple Bloom, who was smilling happily. Clearly she wanted to hear Pinkie Pie's story too. "Oh what the hell, I mean we heard everyone else's stories anyway, might as well hear your's Pinkie Pie". Scootaloo sighed. "All Right"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed happily. (845) "My sisters and I were raised on a rock farm outside of Ponyville. We spent our days working the fields. There was no talking. There was no smiling. There were only rocks". Pinkie Narrated. Young Pinkie herself was looked fairly different to how she normaly looked. Her fur was a darker shade of pink, and her hair was more flat instead of the curly puffy mess it was in the present. As she was moving rocks around, she heard the ringing of a bell. She looked up to see her sisters, and father going into the house for supper, however her father gave her a stern look implying that he wanted her to stay out and continue working. We were in the south field, preparing to rotate the rocks to the east field, when all of a sudden... There was a huge explosion of colors. The once gloomy looking rock farm was now bright thanks to a rainbow that had suddendly appeared. There were birds, bunnies, and other animals as well, Young Pinkie Pie couldn't help but give off a big smile. "I'd never felt joy like that before! It felt so good I just wanted to keep smiling forever! And I wanted everyone I knew to smile too, but rainbows don't come along that often. I wondered, how else could I create some smiles"? Then Young Pinkie Pie got an idea. She knew just what she had to do in order to make her family smile, and experiance the same joy she was feeling. So Young Pinkie Pie worked all throughout the night, never stopping once to rest. Finally when Celestia's sun rose, and the rooster crowed she was done just as her family came out of the house to continue work. "We better harvest the rocks from the south field". Her father stated. All of a sudden the heard loud noises coming from inside the silo. Pinkamena Diane Pie! Is that you"? Her mother asked just as Young Pinkie opened the door. "Mom! I need you and dad and the sisters to come in. Quick!" She said. Unsure of what their daughter wanted the Pie Family followed Young Pinkie Pie inside the silo, and were shocked by what they say. The silo had been decorated wit baloons, and streamers. There was also cake, and other treats as well, and in the middle of it all stood Young Pinkie Pie with a smile on her face. "Surprise! You like it? It's called... a party!" she exclaimed happily. For a while her family just stood there unmoving with shocked looks on their faces. Then their lips started to quiver, it looked like they were about to cry. Young Pinkie Pie noticed this, and became very dissapointed thinking she failed in making her family happy. " Oh. You don't like it". She sighed sadly. But then her familes quivering lips turned into huge smiles. Young Pinkie Pie gasped in delight. "You do like it, I'm so happy". She squeeled as she and her family danced the night away. Young Pinkie Pie's Cutie Mark appeared. Back in the present the gang had just arrived at Sugarcube Corner where Pinkie Pie seemed to have forgotten the story she had told. "And that's how Equestria was found". She said confusing The CMCs. " Wha... huh?" Scootaloo pondered as Pinkie Pie hopped out of the wagon. "Look were here". Apple Bloom said pointing at Sugarcube Corner. "Maybe on the way home I can tell you the story of how I got my Cutie Mark. It's a gem!" Pinkie Pie said as she walked into the bakeary. Scootaloo continued to stare as Sweetie Belle put her hoof on the pegagus shoulder. "Oh come, on she's just being Pinkie Pie". Sweetie Belle said. "That's right, now let's go see if Rainbow Dash is in there". Reiner stated. Him, Bertholdt, and the Crusaders all walked into Sugarcube Corner, and to Scootaloo's delight there stood Rainbow Dash, With Twilight, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack. They had all run into Rainbow Dash, and told her what the Crusaders wanted. Scootaloo couldn't be more happy. "Rainbow Dash you're here"! She exclaimed. Rainbow Dash turned to the Crusaders with a smile on her face. "I hear you're looking for my Cutie Mark story." "You have no idea what I've been through today to hear that story." Scootaloo sighed. "They really wanna know how you got your Cutie Mark". Reiner stated. "Well I'll tell you". Rainbow Dash began (845) It all happened during the race at Flight Camp where I stood alone against all odds to defend Fluttershy's honor. Starting from the moment Young Fluttershy fell off the cloud at the begining of the race. Young Rainbow Dash, and the bullies flew as fast as they could. They went through several hooped shaped clouds, until Young Dumbbell crashed into a pillar taking him out of the race. Now only Young Hoops, and Young Rainbow Dash were lef. I've never flown like before! That freedom was unlike anything I've ever felt! The speed, the adrenaline, the wind in my mane... I liked it... a lot! Rainbow Dash narrarted. Young Rainbow Dash flew through more, and more of the obsetcles, but then Young Hoops decieded to play dirty. He slammed is body into Young Rainbow Dash with all his force knocking her away. Ha! Later Rainbow Crash"! He sneered. That made Young Rainbow Dash really annoyed. There was no way she was going to let him win now. "Hey"! She exclaimed. Young Rainbow Dash quickly flew after Young Hoops. Turns out the only thing I liked more than flying fast... was winning! Young Rainbow Dash flew faster then she had ever flown before. She zipped passed Young Hoops, her adrenline picking up, eyes watering, she wanted to win. Until finally Young Rainbow Dash pulled of the impossilbe. A Sonic Rainboom which helped her win the race. "Most ponies thought that the sonic rainboom was just an old mare's tale. But that day... The day I discovered racing... I proved that the legends were true. I made the impossible happen"! Everyone cheered for Young Rainbow Dash as her Cutie Mark Appeared "And that fillies is how you earn a Cutie Mark". Rainbow Dash stated. "Wooah". The CMCs said in aww. "That was quite the tail". Reiner said. Just then Fluttershy spoke up. "Wait a second. I heard that explosion. And I saw the rainbow too. Rainbow Dash, if you hadn't scared the animals, I never would have learned I could communicate with them and gotten my cutie mark." She stated. "I heard that boom! And right afterwards, there was this amazing rainbow that taught me to smile." Pinkie Pie chimed in "When I got my cutie mark, I saw a rainbow that pointed me home. I bet it was your sonic rainboom!" Applejack realized. "There was an explosion I could never explain when I got my cutie mark." Replied Rarity. "This is uncanny! If that explosion didn't happen when it did, I would have blown my entrance exam. Rainbow Dash, I think you helped me earn my cutie mark too!" Twilight said. "Whoa". Was all Rainbow Dash could muster. All of a sudden Apple Bloom gasped. "Don't you all know what this means. If you all saw that Rainbow then all of you were destian to become friends without even knowing it"! She exclaimed happily. Pinkie Pie gasped. "Apple Bloom's right! We all owe our cutie marks to you Rainbow Dash". she said. "All of us had a special connection before we even met." Fluttershy stated. "We've been BFFs forever and we didn't even know it"! Rarity smiled with tears in her eyes. "Come here Ya'll!" Applejack said as the girls pulled each other in for a hug. "AWW They said. Twilight then looked at the stalions. "Reiner, Bertholdt get in here". "But we didn't see the Rainboom". Bertholdt said. "That doesn't matter, you still got your Cutie Marks the same year as us right"? Applejack asked. Reiner and Bertholdt nodded. "Then come on". Pinkie Pie demanded. Reiner and Bertholdt quickly joined the others. "I'm so glad we're frineds". Said Fluttershy. "I love you guys". Said Pinkie Pie. Apple Bloom, and Sweetie Belle couldn't help but smile at this. "Aww". They said, but Scootaloo found it disgusting, "Ewww! Give me a break. Come on, Crusaders! Maybe we just need to try zip lining again". But Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo just pulled her in for a hug. "Hey how about a song"? Fluttershy suggested. Everyone cheered in delight, except for Scootaloo. "Nooooooo"! She cried! Back at the Golden Oak Libary Twilight was resiting her latest letter to Princess Celestia. Dear Princess Celestia, Today I learned something amazing. Everypony everywhere has a special magical connection with her friends, maybe even before she's met them. If you're feeling lonely and you're still searching for your true friends, just look up in the sky. Who knows? Maybe you and your future best friends are all looking at the same rainbow. Spike looked at Twilight in disgust after he heard the message. "Gross! When did you get so cheasey"? He asked. Twilight just rolled her eyes. "Just write it Spike". She demanded. Spike sighed, and did as he was told. Elsewhere at Sweet Apple Acres Apple Bloom sitting on the porch of her family's house. She had wanted some fresh air so had asked Applejack to help her get outside and into the swing that was on the porch. She smiled as the wind blew in her silk red hair, Winonna was by her side as well. Everything was peaceful until Apple Bloom heard the voice of Scootaloo. "Apple Bloom"! Scootaloo called out. Apple Bloom looked to see the pegasus filly trotting up to her. "Hey Scootaloo what's up"? Apple Bloom asked as she grabbed her crutch, and got up. "Listen I wanted to apologize". Scootaloo stated. This confused Apple Bloom. "For what"? She asked. "For calling Applejack's story sappy". "Oh". Apple Bloom said realizing what Scootaloo was going on about. "Reiner told me how it made you feel after we all left Sugarcube Corner. I'm sorry for that, I was so focused on wanting to hear Rainbow Dash's story that I let myself forgot how senstive you are when it comes to your parents". Scootaloo said. Apple Bloom smiled. "It's okay, and I'm sorry too". She said. Now it was Scootaloo's turn to be confused. "Why are you sorry". She asked. "I was kind of intentionnly making us take longer to hear Rainbow Dash's story". Apple Bloom admitted. "Kind of as karma for what you said about Applejack's story." Scootaloo just smiled. The two of them hugged each other as Scootaloo helped Apple Bloom back onto the porch swing. Scootaloo then climbed onto the swing with her, and they sat talking until the stars came out. "So anyways". Scootaloo was saying. However she stopped when she noticed that Apple Bloom had fallen asleep on her lap. Scootaloo couldn't help but smile as she got up, and went inside to get Applejack who later came out, and put Apple Bloom to bed. Preview When Twilight adopts an owl who begins to help her with her daily routines Spike fears he is going to be replaced. So he tries everything in his power to prevent Twilight from getting rid of him. Next Episode. Owl's Well That Ends Well Author's Note Characters in order of Appearance. Apple Bloom Reiner Braun/Armored Titan Bertholdt Hoover/Colossal Titan Bright Macintosh (Pictured+Flashback) Pear Butter (Pictured+Flashback) Braeburn (Pictured) Scootaloo Sweetie Belle Applejack Granny Smith (Flashback) Big Macintosh (Flashback) Count Casear (Flashback) Uncle Orange (Flashback) Aunt Orange (Flashback) Tall Order (Flashback) Dane Tee Dove (Flashback) Fluttershy Hoops (Flashback) Dumbell (Flashback) Score (Flashback) Rainbow Dash Twinkleshine Sea Swirl (Flashback) Cozy Glow Rarity Samatha Cheerliee (Flashback) Derpy Hooves (Flashback) Minnuette Ametyst Star (Flashback) Twilight Sparkle Lyra Heartstrings (Flashback) Shoesine (Flashback) Princess Celestia (Flashback) Nightlight (Flashback) Twilight Velvet (Flashback) Crystal Clear (Flashback) Arpeggio (Flashback) Top Marks (Flashback) Spike Berry Punch Caramel Cherry Fizzle Lemon Hearts Calvi (Flashback) Theo Magath (Flashback) Marcel Galliard (Flashback) Annie Leonhardt (Flashback) Karina Braun (Flashback) Reiner's Father (Flashback) Ymir (Flashback) Eren Yeager (Flashback) Mikasa Ackerman (Flashback) Armin Arlert (Flashback) Sweetie Drops Daisy Godlengrape Pinkie Pie Marble Pie (Flashback) Limestone Pie (Flashback) Igneous Rock Pie (Flashback) Cloudy Quratz (Flashback)
Episode 32: Owl's Well That Ends Well: Gala arc Part 25Evening at the Golden Oak Library. Spike, and Twilight Sparkle were very exicted for that night there was to be a very special metor shower, and all there friends would be watching. Spike gather a blanket, and telescope and placed them into a red wagon. "This metor shower is going to be amazing"! Twilight exclaimed happily. "Awesome"! Spike said with same entuisasma as he put some fruits into the wagon. "You know, this shower only happens once every 100 years." Twilight stated. "A centennial celebration!" Spike replied. As he put more stuff into the wagon. "We better get a move on". Twilight stated. Spike nodded in agreement. "Don't wanna be late". He said as he put the last item into the wagon, a pitcher of punch. "There". Twilight smiled at her assiant. "Spike, did you grab my quill and ink?" She asked. "Check"! Spike confirmed. Twilight smiled. "Scrolls"? She asked. "Check! I've also packed a telescope, apples, bananas, fruit punch, and my freshly baked homemade triple-decker nut-crazy vanilla cream cookies"! Spike stated. Twilight giggled. "I can see that. Once again you've read my mind, Spike. And that is why you are my number one assistant." She told him. "I'm sorry. I didn't hear you". Spike said. He actually did hear her he just wanted her to say it again. "That is why you are my number one assistant." Twilight said again, but Spike still wanted to hear it once more. "Didn't quite catch that". He teased. "I said." Twilight began, but then she giggled realizing what Spike was doing. "Come on, let's get going. Wait! I almost forgot! I wanna bring the "Astronomical Astronomer's Almanac to All Things Astronomy"." Twilight stated. Spike looked at her in confusion. "The Astronomo-lomo homono what"? He didn't know what that book was, but if Twilight wanted then he would find it for her. So he began searching as Twilight explained to him what the book was. "You know that really old big blue book on stars, moons, planets, the universe...?" She said. Spike then found the book she was looking for. "Right. Check". He said. But before he could get down, and give the book to Twilight, he suddendly sneezed burning the book with his fire breath. Not wanting Twilight to be upset he quickly hid the book in the back of the shelf. "Hey what's taking my number one assistant so long". Spike heared Twilight's voice call down to him. Spike, and Twilight made their way to the meeting spot. Twilight was a little disaponited that she didn't have her book with her though. "I was sure I put the astronomer's guide back. The book would have helped me identify different planets and stars tonight." She lamented. Spike began to sweat nervously, he hadn't told her what really happened to the book. "Well... maybe someone borrowed it. Besides, you don't need that book. You can already name all the planets and stars, 'cause you're super smart and astronomically awesome!" He said reassuringly. Twilight smiled. "Thanks Spike. You're quite the flatterer". She told him. "Yeah. I'm a sweet talker". Spike said. "And number one assistant". Twilight stated. "Check". Spike said as he began to set up the blanket and treats he packed. While Spike was doing that Twilight walked over to her friends. "Hey guys". She greeted. "Hello Twilight". Reiner said as she came up to the group. "Did Spike and I miss anything"? Twilight asked. "No, you arrived right on time". Bertholdt reassured her. Twilight sighed in relief. "Oh good." She stated as she looked at all her friends. "Apple Bloom, you made it"! Twilight said happily seeing the young filly. She was of course being supported by Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "There ani't no way I'm letting her miss out on something like this, It's a once in a lifetime oppurtionty". Applejack stated. "You're right, there's no way you're gonna wanna miss this". Twilight stated just as Spike finshed setting everything up. Rainbow Dash then helped herself to an apple. "Wow, Twilight! You're lucky to have such a rad assistant. I wish I had someone to do whatever I told them." Rainbow Dash said. Hearing That Scootaloo's ear's perked up, but then she looked at Sweetie Belle, as both of them were helping Apple Bloom stand, but Apple Bloom just nodded and smiled reassuringley. "Don't worry I got her". Sweetie Belle said. Scootaloo smiled, and ran over to Rainbow Dash. "Ooh! Ooh! Me! Me! Me! I'll do whatever you want, Rainbow Dash!" She said. Rainbow Dash smiled. " Oh yeah, pipsqueak? How about taking out the trash?" She asked. "Yes Ma'am"! Scootaloo saulted. "That filly will do anything for Rainbow Dash". Reiner stated as the others came over. "Do we have Spike to thank again for this amazing spread"? Rarity asked. "We sure do". Twilight confirmed. "Spike you're so amazing being able to make all this". Apple Bloom complemeted. Spike blushed. "Oh come on stop you're embarssing me". He said. Sorry, Spike but we can't help it, this is amazing work". Reiner told him. "Yeah this is wonderful". Bertholdt replied. Spike smiled. "Yeah I suppose it is". He agreed "Spike this is so wonderful that I had to make a little bow tie for you". Rarity stated "Aww thanks Rarity". Spike said. He then turned to Twilight". You're Turn to say something". He said smuggley, however Twilight just rolled her eyes. "That's enough Spike". She told him. Spike chuckled nervously in response and rubbed the back of his head. "Hey everypony the show's started". Sweetie Belle pointed out. The Mane Eight, Spike, and Cutie Mark Crusaders all rushed over to watch the show, all of them we're amazed by how wonderful it was. After the show was over, everyone was laughing, and having fun while Pinkie Pie was helping herself to the cookies Spike had brought. "These cookies are amazing". She said. "I know, who made them"? Asked Bertholdt. "Spike did, he worked very hard". Twilight stated. "Speaking of Spike, can you bring us some more punch"? She asked, but the baby dragon didn't respond. This confused Twilight. "Spike"? she called looking for him, but then she saw that he had fallen asleep in the punch bowl. Everyone smiled at the sight. "Oh, poor little thing." Rarity cooed. "Aww... He's worked himself to the bone." Twilight moaned. "And now the punch has been... "spiked"! Pinkie Pie joked. Everyone laughed as the stars shown brightly in the night sky. "Welp it's getting late, I think it's best we head back home". Reiner stated. "Reiner's right". Twilight yawned. "Goodnight everypony". They all said their goodbyes and went back to their respetcive homes. Twilight returned back to the Golden Oak Libary with Spike asleep on her back. She couldn't help but smile at how how peaceful he looked. Quietly opening the door, she gentely walked up the staris and put him to bed. "Goodnight, Spike. Sweet dreams, number one assistant." She said before quietly going downstairs to read up some more info about comets. "The Study of Comets. Comets are small, irregularly shaped bodies that are made of nonvolatile grains and frozen gases. They..." All of a sudden Twilight was stopped by a creaking sound. "Huh"? She said in confusion. She step outside and looked around but saw nothing, so she decieded to go back in and continue reading her book. ".have body structures that are fragile and diverse..." All of sudden she thought she saw something fly by the window, so she opened it. However that move caused the wind to blow in, and blow her research out the window, and far away. "Damnit"! Twilight cursed as she rushed back inside and began panicing. "Oh this is a job for Spike. If only he was awake". She exclaimed. Just then Twilight heard a hooting noise. She looked up and saw an owl sitting on her desk, with her research in it's mouth. The owl put the scroll down, and was about to fly away when Twilight called out to it. "Wait! Don't go! Don't be afraid." The owl stopped and looked at Twilight. "Thank you for returning my scroll". She said. The owl hooted as if to say "You're welcome. Just then another gust of wind came blowing in causing the owl to shiver. "God it's cold out tonight". Twilight stated. She then looked at the owl, and an idea flew into her head. "Gosh, it's cold tonight. Say, would you like to relax in here and keep me company while I work?" She asked. The owl thoguht for a bit, and decieded that he would take Twilight up on her offer. Twilight smiled and continued reading as the owl perched itself onto the rack next to her desk. "Now, where was I? Oh, yes. "...fragile and diverse with a surrounding cloud of material called a coma, that grows in size and brightness as the comet approaches the sun..." The next morning the sun shone brightly in Spike's face. Groaning he groggalily opened his eyes. "Huh"? He said in confusion. He then realized what happened and got up in a panic. " Waah! I overslept! I know it's already ten, but I'm scaly-tailed and bright-eyed and ready to work twice as fast!" He stated as he ran down the stairs calling out to Twilight. Oh please, don't be upset, Twilight! And what do you want for breakfast? Oatmeal? How about a sunflower smoothie? Grass pancakes?" He asked her, but Twilight just gave him a soft smile. "Oh Spike don't worry". she reassured. This confused Spike. "But, my morning chores". He tried to remind Twilight but she just smiled and walked over to collect sime items off of her desk. " It's okay. Owlowiscious did them for you." She told him confusing Spike even more. "Who"? He asked. "He's our new junior assistant. He's gonna help out with your chores so you won't be so tired all the time." She explained. This made Spike a little upset. "Wha... Wh... What do we need a junior assistant for? I'm not tired. I do fine on my own. I don't need sleep, I..." He tried to say, but Twilight stopped him. "Spike, don't worry. He's just here to help out a little. Now, I have to go out, so why don't you introduce yourself to Owlowiscious? He's in the library." She stated. "Worried? Do I look worried? I'm not worried. Who's worried?" Spike stated as Twilight left. Once Twilight was gone Spike went down to the library to see who this Owlowiscious guy was. "Hello"? He quietly called out. Owlowiscious, who was sitting by the window heard Spike's voice, and turned his head 360 degrees without moving his body in order to face the baby dragon. This startled Spike a bit. "Whoa! Dude, that's creepy." Spike stated before quickly composing himself and walking over to Owlowiscious. "Uh... Hi there! I'm Spike. I'm sure Twilight has told you all about me." Owlowiscious just stared at Spike before simply saying. "Hoo". This confused Spike. "Uh, Spike? You know, assistant number one?" Spike said. However Owlowiscious once gain responed with. "Hoo"? Now Spike was getting frustrated. "I'm Spike! And who are you? What are you?" He asked. "Hoo". Owlowiscious replied. "Who"? Spike said in confusion. "Hoo". Owlowiscious replied again. "I thought your name was Owlowiscious". Spike said. "Hoo"? Owlowiscious replied. Spike shook his head, and composed himself. Locking eyes with Owlowiscious Spike wanted to make sure the bird knew one thing, and one thing alone. "Okay, "Who", "Owlowiscious", whatever. I'm Spike, okay? Look! All you need to know is that I'm number one and you're number two. Got it?" He said. Owlowiscious just said. "Hoo". Spike's eye twitched. "So, a man of mystery, huh? I'm keeping my eye on you! I've got eyes in the back of my head too, you know." Spike said just as he slamed into the door. "Well, not really, but... you know what I mean!" He stated as he opened the door, and walked outside, slamming it in the process. "That bird is out for my job. He wants to be number one. I'll prove to Twilight that I deserve to be number one. Not Freaky Feathers over there. I won't let him have my job if it's the last thing I do"! Spike thought to himself. Currently Publicly Avalablie Information Meteor Shower. A rare set spectacular event. It happens every 100 years, and is a once in a life time opportunity to witness. Twilight was walking through town having just finished her errands, and was heading back to the Libaray when she saw Reiner, and Bertholdt, and walked up to them "Hi guys". She greeted causing them to turn around. "Hello Twilight, how are you today"? Reiner asked. "I'm doing wonderful, I just brought some new scrolls to write, oh and I made a new friend last night."Twilight stated. "A new friend"? Asked Bertholdt. "Yep". Twilight replied. "Well what's their name, and what kind of pony are they"? Reiner asked. This made Twilight giggle which confused Reiner and Bertholdt. Twilight saw their confused faces and quickly explained. "My new friend isn't a pony he's an owl, and his name is Owlowiscious". Twilight replied. This intrigued the two stalions. "Really, and how did you and this Owlowiscious meet"? Reiner asked. "I was working on research about comments, the wind blew my notes away, and Owlowiscious got them back for me. It was windy, and chilly outside so I let him stay inside, and he helped me out while Spike was asleep. "Ah I get it, since Owls are nocturnal Owlowiscious can help you at night when Spike is asleep". Reiner pointed out. "Exactlay". Twilight stated. "Hey do you guys want to meet Owlowiscious"? "Of course". Reiner stated. Twilight beamed brightly. "Oh, I've got to tell the others, they're going to want to meet Owlowiscious too". Twilight exclaimed. "Especialy Fluttershy". She chuckled. So Twilight went to all of her friends houses to ask them if they wanted to meet Owlowiscious. Natuarlly all of them said yes. "Why of course darling. Sweetie Belle, and I would love to meet your knew friend". Said Rarity. "A pet owl sounds tottaly awesome". Stated Rainbow Dash "Sure, Apple Bloom, and I will meet the fella". Applejack replied. "I'd love to meet your pet Owl". Scootaloo said. "Uh. Yes I wanna meet Owlowiscious"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed excitedly. Fluttershy however seemed to be even more excited then Pinkie Pie. Was that even possible. "You have a pet owl"?! She exclaimed before being to ask a million questions. "Whatkindofowlisitwheredidyoufindhimwhatcolorishehowmannyfeathersdoeshehavecanhemovehishead360degrees" Twilight put her hoof up to Fluttershy's mouth to calm her down. "Come over to my place, and you can see for yourself". She stated to Fluttershy who nodded her head, though she was still very excited that Twilight had a new pet. Back at the Golden Oak Libarby everyone was admired by Owlowiscious. "Oh, what a fantastical, flufflicious feathery little friend! I'm... hooked!" Pinkie Pie joked causing everyone minus Spike to laugh. "He's just wonderful". Fluttershy admired. "He's just wonderful". Spike mocked causing everyone to look up at him. "Uh yes. Wonderfu. "He's quite... the charmer." Spike said quickly composing himself. The others just stared at Spike for a bit before going back to admiring Owlowiscious. "So he just came into your house and helped you out"? Reiner asked. "Yep". Twilight confirmed. "He's adorable". Apple Bloom cooed causing Owlowiscious to blush. "Thank you Apple Bloom". Twilight said. This caused Applejack to chuckle a bit. "You know Apple Bloom's always wanted an exoctic pet herself, and I keep telling her that when she's a bit older she can get the pet she wants." "Really, what kind of pet would that bit"? Asked Bertholdt. "A wolf". Applejack replied. "I should have guessed. After all you do have an interesting facsnation with wolves." Scootaloo replied as Apple Bloom's face turned bright red with embarassment. "Ummm..... Weren't we here to see Owlowiscious"? Apple Bloom asked trying to change the topic back to the owl. Everyone nodded there heads, and went back to talking about Twilight's new pet owl. Now it was Rarity's turn to speak up. "And Owlowiscious is just such a star I just had to make this little bow for you. With Sweetie Belle's help of course". Rarity stated as she present a bow that was identical to the one she gave Spike the night of the meator shower. When Spike saw that his anger grew that he opened the window, climbed back inside, and slammed the window shut in a fit of rage as everyone looked on in confusion. "What's he all saddle sore about?" Applejack asked. "He's probably just jealous of Owlowiscious." Rainbow Dash theorized. "What would he have to be jealous about"? Asked Twilight. "Well maybe Spike feels threatened or worried that Owlowiscious will replace him." Fluttershy replied causing Twilight to look at her in shock. "Replace him? Hah! That's crazy! Spike knows he can't be replaced." She stated. "Are you sure about that Twilight, maybe you should let him know before something happens". Reiner warned. "I don't need to tell him Reiner, because Spike knows that he will never be replaced". Twilight said with full confidance. However inside the libarby Reiner, and Fluttershy's concerns were comming to be as Spike stomped down the stairs. "They're trying to replace me! I better step it up and make sure that Twilight and Owlowiscious know that I'm still number one! He thought to himself just as Twilight and Owlowiscious came back into the house. Twilight then walked over to her desk. "Hey, Spike! Can you fetch me that book called "Two-headed Myth—" "Mythological Mysteries!" I know where it is." Spike stated as he went to look for the book. However he was stopped when he heard Twilight say. "Thanks, Owlowiscious. Hey, Spike, no worries. Owlowiscious flew up and got the book for me." Then Twilight realized she probably needed another book as well. "Oh, and gee! I guess I need "Ferrets of Fairyland" too." Owlowiscious flew up and grabbed the book that just so happened to be in the pile Spike was standing on. "Hey! Whoa! Whoa!" Spike yelped. "Climb down from there before you fall." Twilight told Spike, but unfourtnely he did fall, and he was pretty annoyed." Twilight was writing in her journal, when the tip of her quill snapped off. "Shoot". she cursed. As if he was waiting for some kind of single Spike appeared to help Twilight, and proove that he was better then Owlowiscious. "Yes Ma'am"! He saluted. "My last writing quill. It's broken." Twilight said. "Never fear! Spike, your number one assistant, is here!" Spike stated eagerly as he began to search the house. "Quill... Quill... Where is it? Not here... Quill... Quill, where is it...?" He muttered to himself as he searched the treehouse for a quil, even walking in on Owlowisicous in the shower. "Hoo". The owl said. "Ugh where am I gonna get a quil"? Spike question. Decieding he wasn't going to find one in the libary Spike went out to see if he could find a quill in town as Twilight called out to him. "Spike, wait! Wait!" The first location Spike went to was Quills and Sofas. However when he got there Davenport had some very unfourtune news for him. They had no quills "But the store is called "Quills and Sofas". You only sell two things!" Spike complained. "Sorry Junior. All outta quills until Monday. Need a sofa?" Davenport ask. Spike just groaned. Next Spike went to Sugarcube Corner. He told Pinkie Pie he needed a quill. "I swore I had one here somewhere." She said bringing Spike's hopes up. However what Pinkie Pie brought back wasn't a quill it was a quince. "Ah, here it is! A quince!" "Not a quince. A quill!" Spike said. "Right. A quail? A quilt! A quesadilla? Aha! A quiche!" Pinkie Pie said pulling out a bunch of random items until Spike had enough. "Not a quiche. A quill!" Spike told Pinkie Pie making sure to say it very carefully. "Nope. Sorry all out of Quills". Pinkie Pie stated. "Shoot". Spike sighed as he ate the quiche. Spike continued on until he came across Sweet Apple Acres. "Perhapes I can get a quill from a chicken". He thought to himself. Spike slowly crept up to the chicken coup. To his luck there happened to be one chicken out of the coup. Spike carefully snuck up behind it, however it noticed him coming and ran off forcing Spike to give chase. "Come on, chicken! Here, chicky-chicky-chicky! Here, chick-chick-chick-chicky! Come here! Ugh! Come here!" He shouted. The chicken ran until it saw Apple Bloom coming out of the house, and ran over to her. "Hey now, what in the world is the matter with you". Apple Bloom asked the panicked bird. "COME BACK HERE"! Spike shouted as he ran over to the two of them. "Spike why are you chasing one of our chickens? You scared him nearly half to death". Apple Bloom said sternly. Spike looked down and sighed. "I'm sorry Apple Bloom, it's just that Twilight's quill broke, and I want to get her a new one so she doesn't replace me with Owlowiscious". He explained. "Okay well first off a chicken's feather is too small to be a quill, but Spike Twilight's not going". However Apple Bloom was intterupted by Spike". "Well then where can I get one? Tell me Apple Bloom please he said begging". "Careful! You know my leg is still broken right"? Apple Bloom exclaimed. "Sorry". Spike stated "But I really need a quill". He told her. Realizing that Spike most likely wasn't going to listen even if she told him Twilight wasn't going to replace him Apple Bloom sighed. "Try asking Reiner, and Bertholdt. Maybe they'll have one". Apple Bloom told him. Hearing that Spike lept up in excitment. "Thanks Apple Bloom"! He stated as he ran off to Reiner, and Bertholdt's house. "Spike"! Apple Bloom called out causing him to turn around. "Don't let your jealousy get the best of you"! She told him. "I'm not jealous". Spike replied as he ran off. Apple Bloom just sighed as Applejack came out. "I'm worried Applejack, I'm afraid Spike might do something he'll regret later". Apple Bloom told her older sister. "Well let's just hope he sees that Twilight isn't trying to replace him". Applejack stated. "I still don't understand why your so desprete for a quill". Reiner stated as he pulled one out of a drawer and handed it to Spike". "Because Twilight's quill broke, and she needed a new one." Spike replied. "But couldn't you have just used one of Owlowicious's feathers"? Asked Bertholdt. "No"! Spike snapped. "I'm going to proove to Twilight that I am her only number one assiastant and that she doesn't need the stingy Owlowicious to help her". He stated firmly. "Spike Twilight isn't going to replace you". Reiner told him, however his words fell on deaf ears as Spike ran off with the Quill. "He's not going to listen to reason". Bertholdt stated. "Yeah. Well let's just hope he doesn't do anything stupid". Reiner replied. Spike arrived back at the libary in great tripumh. "Spike to the rescue"! He exclaimed excitedly. However his "victory" was short lived when Twilight turned to him "Oh, Spike. I was calling out for you when you were turning this place upside down. Owlowiscious gave me one of his feathers to use as a quill." She stated. Spike's eye twitched. "That's just great. Perfect! Sweet! I think I'll just, uh... finish up the rest of my chores! Or did Owlowiscious already do them?" He asked. "Oh, no no. There are quite a lot of them." Twilight told him. "Well, that's fine. Because I can just stay up all night and finish–" However running around town all day had drained all of Spike's energy that he fell right asleep on the stairs. Twilight sighed. "Poor Spike. He'll come around. He's genuinely a good little guy." She told Owlowiscious as they let him sleep. The next morning Spike was awoken by a thud. He opened his eyes, and to his horror he saw the book he had burned the other day sitting infront of him, and Twilight looking down on him very crossly. " Spike. What is this? You said this book was missing. Well, Owlowiscious found it right where it belongs, but like this. How did it get this way?" She demaned. Spike stammered as he tried to explain. " Uh... Well, um... You see, I... I just didn't wanna disappoint you and, uh... Have you ever seen a dragon sneeze?" He asked. "I've seen a dragon lie! I'm very disappointed in you Spike". Twilight stated as she walked away. Spike glared angrily at Owlowiscious. "You set me up! Well, two can play that game." He stated. "Hoo"! Owlowiscious replied. "Not "who"! Two! Urgh!" Spike groaned. Outside Twilight walked across town looking glum. Now she wasn't actually upset because Spike destroyed the book, infact she new it had to have been an accident, but he lied to her about it, and that's what bothered her. A few feet away Reiner noticed Twilight and walked over to her. "Hey, what's up Twilight". He asked? Twilight looked up at him and smiled. "Hey Reiner, I'm just worried about Spike". Twilight replied. "How come"? Reiner asked. "Well I he accidentdly burned one of my books, and I yelled at him for lying to me about it, I just hope he doesn't take it too hard". Twilight replied. "I'm sure he won't". Reiner stated, I mean he's just a baby dragon what's the worst he could do"? Reiner asked. Twilight chuckled. "Yeah, you're right". She replied as she and Reiner walked off and continued talking. However unbeknowst to them Spike had left the libary, and was too walking through town. "Owlowiscious is out to take my place, I just know it! I've gotta stop him. But how?" He said to himself. All of a sudden a little mouse scampered out infront of him. Just then an Idea flew into Spike's brain. "Owl's eat mice, all I have to do is make it look like Owlowiscious ate a helpless little feild mouse, and then Twilight will have to get rid of him". He said. Then he put on a costume that made him look like an old timy villian complete with a black hat, cape, and mustache. "Muahahaha!" He laughed. The first part of his plan was to get a mouse. Now Spike knew he couldn't get a real mouse, so he opted for the next best thing. Waiting behind Carosouel Boutique Spike watched until Rarity opened the door, and walked out with her cat. "Come along, Opal. Let's hurry up and get to Fluttershy's tea party." She said. Once they were gone Spike snuck up to the windows. He had to make sure Sweetie Belle wasn't there either, Once he looked through all the windows, and saw that the cost was infact clear he snuck in. Once inside Spike looked around until he found exactlay what he was looking for, a mouse toy. Spike went up and grabbed in grinning devilshly. "So lifelike. And when Twilight discovers it shredded up on her floor, she'll think mouse-eating Owlowiscious is to blame. And I'll be number one... again! Muhahaha!" He laughed and left the Boutique. However once he was outside he was spotted by Apple Bloom who was giving him a confused look. "Spike, what are you doing with Opal's toy mouse"? She asked. "Oh uh, Sweetie Belle let me borrow it for something I'm doing". Spike tried to lie, but Apple Bloom saw right through it. "Sweetie Belle is with her parents today, and I know Rarity didn't let you borrow it since I saw her heading to Fluttershy's a few momments ago." She informed him. Spike sighed. "Well if you must now, I'm going to set up that damn bird, and make Twilight think he killed a real mouse, and then she'll get rid of him once and for all!" He exclaimed. He then looked up at Apple Bloom who had a horrified look on her face. "That's wrong! You can't do that to Owlowiscious he's Twilight's pet, and she loves him"! Apple Bloom exclaimed "Exactaly! She loves, him, and not me. She's trying to replace me, and I refuse to let that happen"! Spike snapped. "SPIKE"! Apple Bloom screamed causing him to look up. "That's not true! None of what you are saying is true, Twilight will never replace you! You are letting your jealousy get the better of you, and it's making you think irrationally"! Apple Bloom argued. "You don't know anything". Spike said under his breath. "W what"? Apple Bloom asked confused. "YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT'S IT'S LIKE! YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT'S LIKE TO BE REPLACED, OR BE UNLOVED"! Spike shouted. "Spike please stop. You're scaring me". Apple Bloom pleaded eyes filling with tears. "AND YOU KNOW WHY YOU DON'T KNOW ANYTHING, BECAUSE YOU. DON'T. HAVE. PARENTS"! Spike yelled. He stood there for a few moments when all of sudden he felt a sharp pain strike him in the side of the cheak. He fell to the ground hard. He looked up and saw Apple Bloom staring at him angrily with tears streaming down her face. Spike then realized she had just slapped him as he held his cheak. "HOW DARE YOU"! Apple Bloom screamed. "YOU HAD NO RIGHT TO BRING UP MY PARENTS, ALL I TRIED TO DO WAS HELP YOU REALIZE THE MISTAKE YOU'RE MAKING, AND YOU SAY SOMETHING LIKE THAT"! Apple Bloom shouted before she coloapsed to the ground, and began sobbing. Spike looked around, there were quite a few witness. Some glared at Spike, while others went to comfort Apple Bloom who was still crying. Spike groaned, got up, and walked away. "Whatever, I have an owl to frame". He muttered to himself. Arriving back at the libarby Spike grabbed a nearby pillow, and a bottle of ketchup. He then placed the toy mouse on the floor, squrited the ketchup on it the the surronding area, and started throwing feathers from the pillow all around, laughing like a madman as he did. Unfourtently for Spike, before he could finish he felt himself bump into something. Spike turned and looked up to see Twilight standing right behind him, with Owlowiscious. Thinking quickly Spike immeidtdley took off his coustme, and began to act all innocent. "That poor little field mouse! Torn to pieces! It must have been Owlowiscious! You know, since owls eat, you know, mice. What a terrible, terrible bird! He must be punished!" He declared before looking up at Twilight. "Right"? Twilight glared at Spike before speaking. "Spike! I don't know what upsets me more—that you deliberately tried to set up Owlowiscious, or that you actually thought this pathetic attempt would work! You've let your jealousy get the best of you, Spike. I am truly disappointed. This is not the Spike I know and love." She scolded befoe walking out of the house with Owlowiscious. Tears filled Spike's eyes. "She... She doesn't love me anymore." He whimpered. Later that day Twilight, and Owlowiscious returned to the libabry. "Spike we need to talk". Twilight called out. However she got no response. "Spike? Where are you"? Twilight asked as she searched the house. "Where could that dragon be"? Twilight wondered She then went up to his room where she saw all of his stuff was gone. That was when she realized what had happened. "Oh no, Spike must have run away. He really thinks I want to replace him! I need to find him"! Twilight declared as she ran out of the libabry. "I'll see if Applejack has seen him". She said as she ran off to Sweet Apple Acres. Arrving at Applejack's house Twilight was about to knock on the door when she heard what sounded like singing. She followed the voice to an area she had never scene before. It was like a magical enchanted forest. Their was a small lake, blue and violet flowers everywhere, and the way the trees blocked the sun made it seem like it was nighttime instead of day. Twilight looked around, and spotted Apple Bloom. She was standing the best she could with her leg. It was when Twilight relaized that she was the one singing. Os iusti meditabitur sapientiam, Et lingua eius loquetur iudicium. Beatus vir qui suffert tentationem, Quoniam cum probatus fuerit accipiet coronam vitae. Kyrie, fons bonitatis Kyrie, ignis divine, eleison O quam sancta, quam serena quam benigna, quam amoena esse Virgo creditur O quam sancta, quam serena, quam benigna, quam amoena O castitatis lilium Once Apple Bloom was finished, she turned and found Twilight standing there. She gasped in shock. "Miss Twilight, what are you doing here"? She asked. "Well I came to find your sister, but then I heard you're voice, which first of all that was amazing, but secondly what is this place?" She asked. "This is my sercet area I come too when I want to be alone. Nopony knows about it, not even Applejack or Big Mac, or Granny Smith". Apple Bloom stated. Twilight gave Apple Bloom a knowing nod. "I won't tell anyone about this, not even Applejack". Twilight said firmly. Apple Bloom smiled knowing she could trust Twilight. "Now can you help me"? Twilight asked. Apple Bloom nodded. "Sure, what's wrong". "Have you scene Spike"? Twilight asked. Apple Bloom turned away. "I did a few hours ago, he had stolen a toy mouse, and was planning to use it to frame Owlowscious". Apple Bloom told Twilight. Twilight sighed. "Yeah, I caught him in the act, before he could finish." Apple Bloom looked up at Twilight. "I'm sorry, I tried to stop him, but he yelled at me". Apple Bloom told Twilight what Spike had said to her. Twilight was shocked and gave Apple Bloom a soft hug. "I'm so sorry he said that you." Twilight stated. "It's okay, I'm sure he was just upset, I mean he still thinks you want to replace him". Apple Bloom stated. Twilight sighed. "I know, he ran away, and I'm really worried about him". Apple Bloom gasped in shock. "Oh no! I'm sorry I didn't see him after he yelled at me, but I hope you find him. He's such a little dragon, and it would be awful if something happened to him". Apple Bloom stated with worry in her voice. "I know, which is why I have to find him, but I don't know where to look". Twilight replied. Apple Bloom thought for a few moments. "Try the Everfree Forest". Apple Bloom said. "You're right! Thanks Apple Bloom"! Twilight stated as she set off to find Spike. "Twilight"! Apple Bloom called out. "Yeah Apple Bloom"! Twilight asked. "Make sure you tell Spike I forgive him"! Apple Bloom said. "I will"! Twilight repled. Twilight across town, she kept running until she came to Reiner, and Bertholdt's house. She knocked franticly on the door, until Reiner opened it with a confused look on his face. "Twilight? What's going on"? He asked. "ReinerSpikeranawayhetriedtoframeowlowisciousandIcaughthimandwhenIgothomehewasgoneandIlookedeverywherebutIcantfindhimand" Twilight began to say all at once only for Reiner to stop her. "Twilight, slow down, take a breath, and start over". Twilight did what Reiner said too, and told him what had happened. "You guys we're right about Spike being jealous. Eariler I caught him trying to set up Owlowiscious by trying to make it seem like he killed a mosue". Reiner gasped in shock. "I knew it was bad, but I didn't think he snoop that low". He stated. "When I wanted to talk to him about it he wasn't home. I can only assume he ran away, and I need your's and Bertholdt's help to find him, please Reiner"! Twilight begged. "Of course Bertholdt, and I will help you find Spike" Reiner stated. "Right Bertholdt"? "You bet, I'll help however I can". Bertholdt replied. "Thanks you guys". Twilight smiled as the four of them set off to find Spike. Meanwhile Spike was wondering through the Everfree Forest feeling misarble. "Twilight hates me. I'm cold, hungry, tired and lonely. Could it get any worse?" He asked. All of a sudden there was a sound of thunder, and soon it started raining. "I guess that's a yes". Spike stated sarcasticaly. Fourtently Spike spoted a cave where he could stay dry. Walking towards he slowy peared inside. "Hello? Hello"? He quietly called out. When no one answered, and another clap of thunder happened Spike rushed inside. He looked around, and then he's eyes spotted something wonderful. it was a whole pile of delicous tasty gemstones. "What is that? If this is what running away is all about, I never wanna go home! Gems! Mmm... Woohoo!" He exclaimed as he began eating them. Spike sat in the pile of gems devouring them away, and while he did have all of these gems to himself, he still felt sadness in his heart. "Even if my tummy's full, the rest of me is still empty. I miss Twilight and the pony gang. But she doesn't love me anymore. So, I'm better off here, all by myself." He said to himself. As Spike ate more gemestones he then remebered back to a few hours eariler. "YOU KNOW WHY YOU DON'T KNOW ANYTHING, BECAUSE YOU. DON'T. HAVE. PARENTS"! An overwhelming sense of guilt washed over Spike. "Why did I say those things to Apple Bloom? She was only trying to help, and now It's too late for me to apologize to her". Spike stated as he closed his eyes, and continue to eat the gems, a few tears falling from his eyes. He sat in silence for awhile when he soon started to feel hotter, and hotter. "Seems to be getting warmer. The steam is great for my complexion, but it's sure getting hot in here". Spike stated. Curious as to what was causing the sudden rise in heat Spike turned around, and came face to face with a large, angry green dragon. "What are you doing in my cave? And why are you eating my gems?" The dragon demanded. Spike gulped, he tried to think of an excues. "Uh, heyah bro! I didn't know this was your cave. And I didn't know these were your gems, but... we're cool, right?" Spike asked. However the green dragon just growled in response. "Whoa, whoa! Hey... We're like brothers, you know? I mean, you're a dragon, I'm a dragon... It's us against the world, right?" Spike asked though his voice was quivering. This time the green dragon roared loudly. "You don't scare me"! Spike declared. This made the green dragon angrier, but Spike continued. "So you're big"! He said, but soon gulped when he took a good look at the dragon's height. "Really big". The green dragon the sharpened his claws. "Claws super sharp." Finally the green dragon shot a bunch of sharp spikes from it's tail. Tail... extra spiky. But, uh... You don't scare me!" Spike exclaimed. He then shot a small puff of fire breath at the green dragon. "Ha! How'd you like that?" The green dragon responded by shooting a huge blast of fire at Spike. Luckily he manged to dodge the attack. "Uh... I'd love to stay, but gotta go! See ya! Wouldn't wanna be ya!" Spike said as he began to run. However the green dragon had no intentions of letting Spike get away. It fired it's breath at Spike as the smaller dragon ran under it's body. Spike tried to hide behind a rock, but the green dragon used his tail to smash it. Spike ran throughout the cave until eventually he was cornered, and had no where left to run. Just when it looked like thinks were over Spike heard a familar hooting sound. "Hoo-hoo!" Owlowiscous and Bertholdt Hoover we're flying towards the green dragon. "Get away from him"! Bertholdt yelled as he and Owlowiscous flew around the dragon greatly annoying it. As the Dragon tried to swat them away Reiner came charging into the cave, and went up to Spike. "Come on"! He ordered. Spike did as he was told, and together he and Reiner began to run. "Spike! Over here"! Twilight called from the cave entrance. Spike and Reiner ran to the exit. "Am I glad to see you!" Spike exclaimed. "Hurry hop on"! Twilight told him. Spike hopped on to Twilight's back as she and Reiner began to run, Owlowiscous, and Bertholdt following close behind. However the green dragon was not done yet, and began to chase after them. To make matters worse there was hardly any light. "It's too dark! I can't see"! Twilight cried. "Neither can I"! Exclaimed Reiner. Fourtentley Owlowiscous flew infront of them "Hoo! Hoo-hoo!" He said. They all immeidetly understood that Owlowiscous was telling them that he could see in the dark, and therefore lead them to safety. So they kept on running, until finally the green dragon cave up it's chase, and all five creatures were safe. "Spike. We were so worried about you. I was so worried about you. Why did you run away?" Twilight asked. Spike just looked down. "This is a conversation you too need to have". Reiner stated. He and Bertholdt stepped back as Twilight waited for Spike to respond. Finally the baby dragon sighed. "I thought you didn't need me anymore. And that you didn't love me anymore." Spike replied. "Spike. Sure, I was disappointed, but you are my number one assistant! And friend. And you always will be. It's just that sometimes I need some help at night. I can't ask you to stay up late. You're a baby dragon and you need your rest. Owls are nocturnal. So I asked Owlowiscious to help. But not to take your place. No one could ever replace you, Spike. Not even when you are being a jealous numbskull." Twilight explained. "We tried to tell you that Spike, but you were so busy trying to prove yourself that you didn't listen". Reiner stated. Spike sighed. "I'm sorry everyone, I shouldn't have been so jealous" He said. "And I'm sorry too, I should have been more senstieve". Twilight replied. Spike then looked up at Owlowiscous. "And Owlowiscious... I know now that you weren't out to take my job. Forgive me?" "Hoo"? Owlowiscous said. "Me. Forgive me, Spike." Spike replied. "Hoo". Owlowiscous said again as Spike looked on in confusion. "He forgives you Spike." Twilight stated. Spike sighed in relief hearing that. "So how did you guys find me anyways"? Spike asked. "We followed your footprints that you left with the ketchup". Reiner stated. "Oh." Spike replied. "I'm sorry I tried to frame you Owlowiscous". "It's okay Spike". Twilight stated. Then Spike gasped. "Apple Bloom! I said something really mean to Apple Bloom earlier! I've got to". Spike began only for Twilight to stop him. "Spike I spoke to her already, and she wanted me to tell you that she forgives you". "She does'? Spike asked. Twilight nodded, and Spike smiled. "Come on, let's go home". Reiner stated. Back at the Golden Oak Libary Twilight and Spike were getting ready to write the friendship report to Princess Celestia. "I know Princess Celestia will wanna read about what happened today..." Twilight stated. "I'm ready when you are"! Spike said. Twilight was about to start resiting the letter, when she got an idea. "Hey, Spike. Why don't you write to Princess Celestia? And tell her what you've learned?" She suggested. "Really? Why, that's a big responsibility!" Spike stated. "I know, but nothing my number one assiatant can't handle". Twilight said confendidtly. So Spike did just that. "Dear Princess Celestia, This is Spike, writing to you about my adventures. This week I've learned that being jealous and telling lies gets you nowhere in friendship. I also learned that there's plenty of love for every friend to share. So from here on out, I promise, that I, Spike, will..." However he fell asleep before he could finish. "Oh Spike". Twilight giggled. "Hoo"? Said Owlowiscous causing Twilight to look up in confusion. "Who? Spike! You kno..." Twilight began before realizng. "Ohhhh..." She giggled. The next moring Spike was walking across town again when he spotted Apple Bloom with Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Seeing the three filles Spike walked up to them. When they saw him Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo glared at him, it was clear Apple Bloom had told them what he had said, and they weren't too happy with him. Spike sighed. "Hi Apple Bloom, can I, uh talk to you"? Spike asked. "I don't know, can you"? Scootaloo responded coldly, a reaction Spike was expecting, but Apple Bloom put her hoof up. "Scootaloo let him speak". Apple Bloom stated. Scootaloo nodded her head in understanding as she and Sweetie Belle left. Apple Bloom looked at Spike, and smiled. "Hi Spike, what do you need"? She asked as the sun sparkled down on her. "Goddess". Spike said intetrnaly before looking striaght at Apple Bloom. "Listen, I just wanted to say I'm really sorry for what I said to you yesterday, I was angry, and wasn't thinking striaght. "You were right I let my jealousy get the best of me, and I took my anger out the ponies who care about me most. I just really hope you can forgive me". Spike said praticaly begging. Apple Bloom smiled, grabbed her crutches, limped over to Spike, and gave him a big hug. "I forgive you Spike". She stated as Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo joined in the hug as well. Preview When her friends find excues to not come to her parties, Pinkie begins to investage and suspects that they plan to get rid of her, causing her to loose herself. Can her friends clear up the misunderstanding before it's too late? Next Episode. Party of One Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Spike Twilight Sparkle Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Applejack Fluttershy Apple Bloom Rarity Sweetie Belle Rainbow Dash Scootaloo Pinkie Pie Sweetie Drops Shoeshine Owlowiscious Davenport Daisy Lyra Heartstrings Lemon Hearts Goldengrape Roseluck Lilly Valley Gostir
Episode 33: Party of One: Gala arc Part 26It was the afternoon in Ponyville. The sun was high in the sky, and Reiner Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover were about to have lunch, when they heard a knock at the door. "What the hell". Reiner muttered. He walked over to the door, and saw an interesting sight. There was Pinkie Pie, but she wasn't looking her happy go lucky self, she looked tired, and worn out. "Um..... Pinkie Pie you okay"? Reiner asked. Pinkie Pie panted heavly before speaking. "W would you g guys l l like t to c come to G Gu Gummy's birthday p party". Pinkie Pie manged to say before colapseing to the ground. Inside the house Pinkie Pie was feeling much better as she drank some chocolate milk that Reiner had made for her. "Thank you guys, I needed this." She said. "Hey no problem, anything to help a friend out". Reiner stated. "So why were so tired, I mean it's not like you at all. You're usually so energetic". Bertholdt pointed out. "Well........ You see". Pinkie Pie began (A few hours eariler) It was a normal day in ponyville. Inside her home Twilight Sparkle was reading a book when she heard a knock at the door. She walked over, and saw Pinkie Pie looking her wacky energetic self as usual, her pet Aligator Gummy was with her as well. "Oh hi Pinkie Pie". Twilight began, but before she could ask what Pinkie Pie was doing at her house the energetic earth pony started singing. This is your singing telegram I hope it finds you well You're invited to a party 'Cause we think you're really swell Pinkie Pie was then at the Carousel Boutique singing for Rarity, and Sweetie Belle Gummy's turning one year old So help us celebrate The cake will be delicious The festivities first-rate She continued for Applejack, and Apple Bloom There will be games and dancing Bob for apples, cut a rug And when the party's over We'll gather 'round for a group hug As she went on for Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo she began to getting tired. No need to bring a gift Being there will be enough Birthdays mean having fun with friends Not getting lots of stuff "And by the time she got to Fluttershy she was nearly gasping for air due to how exhausted she was". It won't be the same without you So we hope that you say yes So, please, oh please R.S.V.P. And come, and be our guest! Finally Pinkie Pie was done, she breath heavily, and said in a raspy voice "Next time, I think I'll just pass out written invitations." "And that's what happened." "So it's Gummy's birthday"? Reiner asked. "Yep, and everypony's going to be there. Well accept Apple Bloom because you know, her leg". Stated Pinkie Pie "Yeah, how is her leg doing by the way"? Reiner asked. "Oh it looked like it was doing fine, I mean she no longer needs crutches from what I saw, but she is still wearing a leg brace." Pinkie Pie replied. "I see". Reiner stated. "So will you guys come"? Pinkie Pie asked. "Of course we will". Reiner replied as Bertholdt nodded. "YAY"! Pinkie Pie cheered as she hugged the two of them tightly". Later that day Gummy's party was held inside Pinkie Pie's bedroom at Sugarcube corner. Almost everyone was there, and having fun. Twilight, and Pinkie Pie were dancing, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash were bobbing for Apples, and Rarity, Bertholdt, Fluttershy, and Reiner were having a conversation. The only ones who weren't there were the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Apple Bloom due to her broken leg still needing to heal, because of that Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo chose to hang with her instead. Pinkie Pie didn't mind that, as she felt it would have been unfair to Apple Bloom to sit at home while her friends had fun. Over with Applejack, and Rainbow Dash Applejack grabbed an Apple, tossed it into the air, and ate it whole. "Nice one". Rainbow Dash said impressed. "Now let me show you how it's really done." However before Rainbow Dash could show Applejack up Pinkie Pie came up to the two of them. "Hey girls". She greeted. "Hey Pinkie Pie". Greeted Rainbow Dash. "Howdy". Applejack did the same. "Just wanted to tell you how happy I am that you could make it to Gummy's party." She said happily. "Are you kiddin'? I wouldn't have missed it for the world." Applejack stated. "Me too. When Pinkie Pie throws a party I am there"! Rainbow Dash said as she dove in for an apple. "Ta da"! She exclaimed. "Aw! It's just a boring old apple. Don't worry, there are plenty of other surprises in there." Pinkie Pie stated. "What kind of suprises"? Rainbow Dash asked her curiousty peaking. "I can't tell you that, silly. Then it wouldn't be a surprise." Pinkie Pie answered before skipping away. After she left Rainbow Dash, and Applejack both dove into the bucket hoping to get one of the suprises. However their suprises weren't what they were expecting. Applejack got a green apple that was atatched to a spring which caused her face to splash into the water. Meanwhile Rainbow Dash came up with Gummy bitting her face. Applejack let out a small chuckle which caused Rainbow Dash to glare at her. "Heh. Uh. Good thing he don't have teeth". Applejack laughed nervously as Rainbow Dash tossed Gummy away. Pinkie Pie meanwhile walked over to Rarity who was drinking some punch. Pinkie Pie got her another cup as soon as she was finished. "This punch is simply divine. Is this the same recipe you used for your "Spring Has Sprung" party?" Rarity asked. "Nope! Something new." Pinkie Pie replied. Rarity looked over, and to her horror saw Gummy inside the punch bowl. She realized that the punch was made from Gummy's spit. Rarity spat it out, before looking at Pinkie Pie who still had a huge smile on her face. "It's Gummy's favorite". Pinkie Pie explained. Not wanting to hurt the party pony's feelings Rarity gulped, and took another sip of the punch. Just then another song came on causing Pinkie Pie to brighten up. "Ooh, this is my jam!" She exclaimed as she ran over to the dance floor. Once she was gone Rarity turned to a potted plant and spat the punch out. Pinkie Pie joined the dance floor with Twilight, and Fluttershy. "Having Fun". She asked. "A blast"! Said Twilight. "You always throw the best parties, Pinkie Pie." Fluttershy stated. "They're always the best parties 'cause my best friends are always there!" Pinkie Pie replied. However she danced so hard that she ended up knocking both Twilight, and Fluttershy into the walls. The two of them quickly recoverd however, and contiuned to dance as Pinkie Pie went over to Bertholdt, and Reiner. "I'm so happy you came"! Pinkie Pie said. "We wouldn't have missed it". Reiner stated. "I haven't had this fun in such a long time". Bertholdt replied. "Well I'm happy you're having fun now"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed before calling out to the others. "C'mon, everypony! Gummy wants to dance! Go, Gummy! It's your birthday! Go, Gummy! It's your". The party lasted all the way into the night, and soon it was time for everyone to leave. "Hoo-wee! I am beat! I haven't danced that much since... Well, since your last party. Thanks again for the invite! Oh, and sorry the Crusaders couldn't be here". Applejack stated. "That's okay, infact I should be the one apologzing. I was so excited about Gummy's Party that I didn't think about how Apple Bloom wouldn't be able to do anything". Pinkie Pie replied. "Don't worry about it". Applejack stated as she left. "See ya later, birthday alligator!" Rainbow Dash said. "Bravo for hosting yet another delightful soiree." Rarity replied. "It was lovely". Stated Fluttershy. Before Twilight, Reiner, and Bertholdt could leave Pinkie Pie called out to the three. "Are you sure you don't wanna stay? There's still some cake left." She said. "Uh, we think we're going to pass". Twilight stated. "Yeah. It was a great party though". Replied Bertholdt. "We should defenitly do this again soon". Reiner suggeseted as the three of them left. Pinkie Pie ponderd on their words, and then an idea flew into her head. "We should do this again soon!" She exclaimed happily. Meanwhile the rest of the Mane Eight began to walk away as they talked about the party. "Wow, I still can't get over how fun Pinkie Pie's parties are". Said Reiner. "Yeah, I honestly hope she throws another one tommorow"! Twilight said happily. However Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy all stopped, and turned to face Twilight, Reiner, and Berthodt. "What's wrong"? Asked Bertholdt. "We won't be able to attend any of Pinkie Pie's parties tommorow if she plans one". Said Applejack. This confused Reiner, Bertholdt, and Twilight. "Why not"? Reiner asked. "Because tommorow is Pinkie Pie's birthday, and we plan to throw a suprise party for her as a way to thank her for all the fun parties she's thrown us". Rainbow Dash stated. Hearing that Twilight gasped with delight. "Really, that's wonderful". She said. Applejack nodded. "That's right Twi, but remember if Pinkie Pie does invite you three to a party you need to come up with an excuess as to why you can't go. Alright". Twilight, Bertholdt, and Reiner nodded their heads. Satisfied the other four ponies smiled, and they all went back home. The next morning at the Golden Oak Libarby Twilight was woken up to more frantic knocking. Yawning she walked downstairs, and opened door once again seeing Pinkie Pie standing there. Twilight smiled, and greeted her friend. "Oh! Hi, Pinki-" She began, but before she could finish Pinkie Pie jumped in Twilight's face all giddy. "It's soon"! She squealed confusing Twilight. "Pardon me"? Twilight asked. "You said we should have another party soon, and... it's soon! Here's your invitation!" Pinkie Pie replied as she thrusted one of the envelopes into Twilight's hooves. Twilight opened the invatation, and read it. ""You're invited to Gummy's 'after-birthday' party. This afternoon at 3 o'clock." Twilight's eyes then widened as she remebered Applejack's words from last night. "Remember if Pinkie Pie does invite you three to a party you need to come up with an excuess as to why you can't go. Alright". Pinkie Pie meanwhile was rambling on about the party. "All our bestest friends are invited, and there's gonna be dancing, and games, and cake, and ice-cream, and punch!" She said excitedly. "This afternoon? As in, "this afternoon" this afternoon?" Twilight asked kind of panicking, which Pinkie Pie was oblivous too. "Yes, indeedy!" Pinkie Pie said happily. Thinking quickly, Twilight used her magic to secretly knock a bunch of books off of her shelves. "Oh, gosh. I wish I could make it, but I've gotten a bit behind in my studies. I've really gotta hit the books." Twilight said. Pinkie Pie smiled understaningly. "I understand. Your studies come first. But don't worry, we'll be sure to save you some cake." She said. "Please do". Twilight replied as Pinkie Pie began walking away, however before she left Pinkie Pie turned to Twilight. "Oh! And Twilight, you shouldn't hit the books. You should really just read them." She stated. "I'll keep that in mind". Twilight replied as Pinkie Pie left. "Twilight has to focus on her studies. It makes sense, she was sent to learn about friendship by Princess Celestia. At least I have my other friends to come, I'll go give an invatation to Applejack". Pinkie Pie thought to herself as she made her way to Sweet Apple Acres. At said farm Applejack was busy pulling three wagons of apples towards the barn, when Pinkie Pie came out from behind a bunch of hay bales. "Huh"? Applejack said in confusion before realizing it was just Pinkie Pie "Oh, hi, Pinkie Pie! What brings you 'round these parts?" Applejack asked. "Who's ready to shake their hoof-thang?!" Pinkie Pie asked. Confused Applejack took one of the envolopes from Pinkie Pie's basket. "It's an invitation to Gummy's "after-birthday" party this afternoon. There's gonna be dancing, and games, and cake, and ice-cream, and punch!" Pinkie Pie explained. "This afternoon? As in "this afternoon" this afternoon?" Applejack asked wanting to be sure she heard correctly. "That's funny. That's just what Twilight said, and the answer is, "Yes! It's this afternoon!" Pinkie Pie replied. Remembering that they still needed to plan for Pinkie Pie's suprise party. "Uh, well, I... I... uh... I don't think I can make it 'cause... uh... I have to... uh... uh, you know what? I... uh... " Applejack quickly tried to think of something to say. To her luck she spotted Apple Bloom sitting on the porch swing with Winona. Applejack had been so focused on work she didn't even noticed Apple Bloom until then, but it gave Applejack an idea. "I'd love to, but I heard that the wolves in Fillydelphia just had PUPPIES, and I was planing on taking Apple Bloom to see them". Applejack had said that part a little louder so that Apple Bloom could hear them, and she did cause When Applejack looked over at where Apple Bloom was she was staring intently at her. Applejack gulped, and turned back to Pinkie Pie who was also glaring at her. Applejack gulped again. But then Pinkie Pie just smiled. "Okey-dokey-lokey! A party is still a party, even if there are only five guests" Pinkie Pie stated as she skipped away. Applejack sighed, and headed back over to Apple Bloom. "I know you have to plan her suprise party, but why did you have to lie about baby wolves? Why couldn't you tell her you just had to pick apples"? Apple Bloom asked. "Oh. I wasn't lying about that little sis, the Fillydelphia zoo really does have baby Wolf Pups, and I really do plan on taking you to see them. Perhaps tommorow if you're up for it". Applejack stated. Apple Bloom lit up with excitment. "YES!" She exclaimed before hugging Applejack. "Careful little sis, you're leg's almost healed. We don't need anything happening to it now do we." Applejack warned. Immeidtldlely Apple Bloom calmed down. At Carousel Botique Spike was taking out the garbage for Rarity, of course he didn't mind since after all it was Rarity asking him to do it, and so once he was done, he happily went back to her. "Anything else I can do for you, most beautiful one?" He asked. The garbage had mad him incredibley dirty, and Rarity good smell the stink all over him. "Hmm... perhaps you could take a bath. How do I put this delicately? You smell like a rotten apple core that's been wrapped in moldy hay and dipped in dragon perspiration." She told him as she turned away. Spike however took it very well, and began to float in the air as Rarity genetly pushed him away. Just then Pinkie Pie appeared. "Ooh! Love the new hat. Very modern. What's the occasion?" Rarity asked. "Gummy's "after-birthday" party is this afternoon. I'm delivering the invitations." Pinkie Pie explained. Hearing that made Rarity gasp. "The party is this afternoon? As in this afternoon this afternoon?" She asked. "That's strange, Twilight, and Applejack said the same thing". Pinkie Pie stated. "Oh... do they?" Rarity asked while chuckling. "I know it's short notice, but we had such a great time at his birthday party, I thought we could have even more fun at his after-birthday party." Pinkie Pie said with a hopeful smile. Seeing how excited Pinkie Pie was just broke Rarity's heart, but she had no choice. "And I'm sure that we would, but I'm going to have to decline. I have to... wash my hair!" Rartiy said. However Pinkie Pie looked at Rarity in confusion. "But you're hair doesn't look dirty at all". She stated. "It doesn't?" Rarity asked. "Nope. Pinkie Pie replied. Thinking quickily Rarity rushed over to the trashcan, and after some hesitation she stuck her head inside of it. "See. Dirty". She gagged before running into her house. "I have to go". "Wait, what about Sweetie Belle, can she come"? Pinkie Pie asked. "She's has a very important school project she's working on, that's going to take her all day probably". Rarity called from inside. Pinkie Pie continued to stand in confusion. "Huh, no Twilight, no Applejack, no Apple Bloom, no Rarity, and no Sweetie Belle." She said. However her disapointment didn't last long. "Oh well I still have Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Reiner, and Bertholdt." She said happily. However when she found Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash said. "This afternoon". "As in". Fluttershy continued before Pinkie Pie intterupted them "Yes! As in, "this afternoon" this afternoon!" Pinkie Pie said, she was still smiling though hearing the samething over, and over again was getting annoying. "Oh, man! We'd love to, but... we're... house-sitting this afternoon." Rainbow Dash said. "Both of you"? Asked Pinkie Pie. "It's... uh... a big house." Fluttershy stated as Rainbow Dash used a pencil to draw a fake watch on her hoof. "Uh, look at the time! We'd really better get going." She said, as she and Fluttershy began to fly away only for Pinkie Pie to call out to them "Wait"! She yelled causing the two of them to stop, and fly back over to her. "Maybe I could bring you some after-birthday cake and ice-cream. Who're you house-sitting for?" Pinkie Pie asked. "Harry". Said Rainbow Dash. "Harry"? Pinkie Pie repated in confusion. "Yeah, I don't think you know him". Rainbow Dash replied. "That's strange. I know just about everypony around here." He's... a bear". Fluttershy stated. "A bear"? Pinkie Pie asked. Rainbow Dash looked over at Fluttershy who winked as if to tell Rainbow Dash to go with it. "Yup! He's a bear all right, and he'll be pretty upset if we don't get over to his house soon." She said just as she and Fluttershy tried to leave again only for Pinkie Pie to call out again. "Wait"! Causing them both to stop now getting a bit frustrated, but they didn't let it show as Pinkie Pie continued. "There's a bear around here who lives in a house"? She asked. "It's, uh really more of a cave". Fluttershy replied. "But he's fixed up the place so much, it feels like a house." Rainbow Dash stated. "And, uh, he wants us to look after his house... uh, cave... while he's, uh..." Fluttershy began. "A-at the beach!" Rainbow Dash finished. "He's vacationing at the beach"? Asked a bilwildered Pinkie Pie. "Yup! He loves to..." Rainbow Dash said looking at Fluttershy for help. And soon both of them began talking at once. Fluttershy said. "Collect sea shells". Rainbow Dash said. "Play volleyball". They both looked at each other and tried again. This time Fluttershy said "Play volleyball". And Rainbow Dash said "Collect sea shells". Then Fluttershy said "Collect volleyballs While Rainbow Dash said "Play with seashells. They both then just stared at Pinkie Pie with nervous smiles on their faces. "Gotta go!" Rainbow Dash said as she and Fluttershy quickly flew away. Pinkie Pie sighed. "Oh well a party's stil a party with three guess". Pinkie Pie made her way over to Scootaloo's house, and found her outside sunbathing in the grass. "Hey Scootaloo". Pinkie Pie called causing the filly to look up. "Oh hey Pinkie Pie, what can I do for you"? Scootaloo asked. "Listen I know you couldn't come to Gummy's birthday party yesterday, but I was wondering if you'd be able to come to his after party this afternoon?" Pinkie Pie asked. Scootaloo's eyes widened. "The party's". She began as she and Pinkie Pie both began to speak at the same time. "This afternoon, as in this afternoon this afternoon"? They both said, and Pinkie Pie groaned. "Yes, just like everypony else has asked, the party is this afternoon this afternoon". She confirmed. Scootaloo looked sadly at Pinkie Pie. "God I'd really love to, but I'm heading out of town to visit family for a special occasion". She stated. "Oh, what for"? Asked Pinkie Pie. "It's one of my cousins quinceañera." Scootaloo stated. "Oh, I actually didn't know you were hispanic". Pinkie Pie said. "Yep". Scootaloo chuckled. Just then one of her aunts called out to Scootaloo in spanish. <"Scootaloo come on the train will be leaving soon".> <"Right, I'll be there in a minute"> Scootaloo replied also in spanish. "Sorry Pinkie Pie, but I have to go". Scootaloo said as she rushed inside. Pinkie Pie sighed sadly. "Twilight, Spike, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Rarity, Sweetie Belle, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Scootaloo. None of them can come, I guess that just leaves Reiner, and Bertholdt". She stated, before smiling again. "Oh well, a party is still a party even with only two guests." Pinkie Pie said as she skipped over to Reiner, and Bertholdt's house. Once she arrived, she knocked and the door, and waited. After a few moments Reiner opened the door, and smiled when he saw Pinkie Pie. "Hey Pinkie Pie, what brings you here"? He asked. "Do you guys want to come to Gummy's after birthday party this afternoon"? Pinkie Pie asked. Reiner instantly the same look on his face that everyone else got just as Bertholdt came over. He was about to reply when Pinkie Pie intterupted him "And before you say anything, yes it's this afternoon, this afternoon". She confirmed. Reiner, and Bertholdt both stared at each other before turning back to Pinkie Pie. "We're sorry Pinkie, but we can't". Reiner said sadly. Pinkie Pie sighed. "Alright, so what are you so busy with that you can't come"? She asked. "What do you mean"? Bertholdt asked in return. "Well, everypony I've asked has been too busy today. Twilight's studying, Applejack has plans to take Apple Bloom to the Fillydelphia Zoo, Rarity had to wash her hair, Sweetie Belle's working a something for school, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy are house sitting for a bear named Harry who's vacationing at the beach, and Scootaloo's going out of town for family buisness. So what are you too doing"? She asked. Reiner and Bertholdt looked at each other for a moment before Bertholdt rushed back into the kitchen. Pinkie Pie stared in confusion as Reiner smiled nervously at her. All of sudden both of them heard the sound of glass shattering, the noise lasted for about 3 minutes as Reiner turned back to Pinkie. "Oh sorry, but our house is a complete mess, and we're going to need to clean, and I'm sure that's going to take us all day". He told her. Pinkie Pie, knowing something was up looked at him suspisously for a few moments as Reiner began to sweat. Pinkie Pie then sighed. "Alright". she said sadly as she turned and walked away. "Sorry Pinkie". Reiner said before closing the door. Currently Pubicly Avalible Information Sugarcube Corner. A bakeray located in Ponyville where it's reisdents can relax and enjoy tastey treats. It is also the home of Pinkie Pie, and Mr. and Mrs. Cake. Pinkie Pie sat in her room with Gummy feeling glum. All of her friends were busy, and couldn't come to Gummy's after party. The more Pinkie Pie thought about it, the more she began to realize that something supscious was defenitly happening. "Something strange is definitely going on around here, Gummy. Sure Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy had to house-sit for that vacationing bear, Applejack made a promise to go somewhere with Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo has family buisness to attend to out of town, but what are the chances all my other friends would have plans this afternoon too? Rarity has to wash her hair? Twilight is behind on her studies and has to hit the books? Reiner, and Bertholdt are cleaning? Pinkie Pie thought to herself for a moment. The more I think I about it the more those are starting to sound like..." She then gasped as the realization hit her like a ton of bricks falling onto her head. "Excuses"! Just then Pinkie Pie noticed something. It was Twilight, and Reiner. The two of them were sneaking before entering Sugarcube Corner. "That doesn't look like studying or cleaning". Pinkie Pie stated. Decieding to get a closer listen, Pinkie grabed two cans and attached them to strings. She then put one of them down through a hole in the floor so she could hear their conversation Inside the main area Twilight rung the bell, and Mrs. Cake came out. She smiled once she saw both Twilight and Reiner. "Ooh! You must be here for..." She began before being shushed by both Reiner, and Twilight. "Is Pinkie Pie around"? Reiner asked. "Oh I don't think so". Mrs. Cake replied. "Good, we don't want her to know anything about this". Twilight stated. "Yes, of course. I'll be right back." Mrs. Cake replied as she left. Meanwhile Pinkie Pie listend in very confused. "But... we're friends. What wouldn't Reiner, and Twilight want me to know anything about?" She asked. Just then she heard Mrs. Cake returning. "She's coming back"! Pinkie Gasped as she pulled the can back down through the hole to listen some more. "There you go". Pinkie Pie heard Mrs. Cake say, clearly giving them something. "Thanks, and remember, not a word to Pinkie Pie." Reiner stated. Just then Pinkie Felt herself being yanked forwared. "Hey what's with the tin can"? She heard Twilight ask. "Something's going on, and I'm gonna figure out what it is". Pinkie Pie thought to herself. Twilight, and Reiner hasitly sneaked around Ponyville, they were trying extra hard not to be spotted. However unbeknownst to them Pinkie was following close behind. "Time to get to the bottom of this". She declared as she put on a pair of folk glasses in order to hide herself. Pinkie followed close behind Reiner, and Twilight, but just then they turned around causing Pinkie Pie to quickly hide. "I think our cover's been blown, we'll need a new disguse". She said to Gummy. Twilight and Reiner made their way to Carousel Boutique and rang the doorbell. Rarity and Sweetie Belle slowly opened the door. Seeing that it was Twilight and Reiner, they steped out and moved over to the two of them. "She didn't see you at the sweet shop, did she?" Rarity asked. "We don't think so". Reiner replied. "Good, it would be dredful if she ruined everything". Rarity stated to which both Twilight and Reiner nodded in agreement. "Us too". Twilight said. She then steped forward, and "accidently" droped the box that was on her back. Rarity looked around, to make sure the cost was clear before stepping infront of the box, and grabbing it with her tail. "Ready Sweetie Belle"? Rarity whispered. Sweetie Belle nodded, and the two of them snuck away unawere that Pinkie Pie was watching them from within a hay bale. Pinkie Pie followed close behind them while remaining hidden. Eventually Rarity, and Sweetie Belle came to an alley where they ran into Fluttershy, and Bertholdt. This confused Pinkie Pie cause she remembered that Fluttershy had said she, and Rainbow Dash were going to be housesitting for a bear. Rarity then began talking. "Have you two seen her"? She asked obivously reffering to Pinkie Pie. "Not since this morning". Fluttershy replied. "Us too Can you believe she was planning on throwing an after-birthday party today"? Rarity asked. "Fluttershy and I are just glad that we were able to come up with excues as to why we couldn't go". Bertholdt stated. Just then Scootaloo showed up confusing Pinkie even more since she was suppose to be out of town. Pinkie Pie continued to listen as they continued. "Is everything ready". Scootaloo asked. "Yes it is, and Pinkie Pie is none the wiser Rarity stated. "Good, and I got this". Scootaloo said as she pulled a small box out of her bag. "Perfect. This is going to be so much better then the party Pinkie Pie was planning". Rarity said, the others nodding in agreement as Pinkie Pie watched from her hiding spot, her eyes filling with tears. "It's all going to go well, as long as we don't keep her from finding out". Fluttershy stated. Rarity then passed the box over to Fluttershy. "Good luck". Rarity whispered. With that the five ponies each split up. Bertholdt flew north, Rarity walked further into the alley, Sweetie Belle hopped on Scootaloo's scooter, and the two of them traveled east, while Flutttershy with the box moved south. Pinkie Pie made an attempt go escape without being spotted. However she bounced into a wall, and stumbled backwords right behind Fluttershy, and when shy pony turned to see what the noise was, all she saw was a large hay bale with big googly eyes staring at her. Fluttershy screamed in horror, and flew away taking the box with her. Pinkie Pie watched her go. "I thought everypony loved my parties". She said sadly. Just then Rainbow Dash walked by. "Hi Pinkie Pie". She said, but then panicked as she realized her mistake. "Uh oh". She said before qucikly flying away as Pinkie Pie jumped out of the hay bale. "Rainbow Dash, wait"! She called out. Rainbow Dash flew around several corners and allies. Once she thought she was safe she stoped to take a breath only for Pinkie Pie to appear out of a barrel. "Where are you going"! The Pink Earth Pony asked. "Gah"! Rainbow Dash yelped as she flew all the way to Ponyile Junior High, and hid inside the bell. However Pinkie Pie was waiting there too. "What's the real reason you didn't want to come to Gummy's party?!" She demanded to know as Rainbow Dash flew away again. She flew all the way up a mountain only to find Pinkie Pie waiting up for her. It was then Pinkie Pie noticed that Rainbow Dash was carrying some kind of bag with her. "WHAT'S IN THE BAG"!!!! Pinkie Pie shouted only for Rainbow Dash to fly away again. "I can escape you Pinkie Pie"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed as she zipped away. This made Pinkie Pie very cross. No, you CAN'T! Pinkie Pie screamed as she chased after Rainbow Dash. The two of them headed striaght for Sweet Apple Acres the noise catching the attention of Applejack. "Applejack! We've got a problem"! Rainbow Dash exclaimed despretely. Applejack looked and saw Pinkie Pie following Rainbow Dash. Rainbow Dash flew into the barn, and Applejack rushed in afterwards and slamed the door just as Pinkie Pie arrived and started knocking on the door. "I know you're in there"! She exclaimed. Knowing she wasn't going to go away Applejack slowly opened the door and gave Pinkie Pie a nervous smile. "Oh! Howdy, pardner!" Applejack chuckled nervously. "Mind if I... take a look inside the barn?" Asked Pinkie Pie. "No! Uh, I mean, yes, I mean... you can't come in here!" Applejack stuttered. "Rainbow Dash went in". Pinkie Pie retorted. "Oh, well, she was just bringin' in some... supplies! Yup, supplies for the... renovation! Fixin' up the whole thing, top to bottom... uh, lots of construction goin' on in there right now." Applejack said while looking behind her. "You heard her, construction". Rainbow Dash whispered to someone else that was clearly in the barn Soon there we're sounds of ponies mimcking construction noises. Pinkie Pie still uncovinced tried several attempts to look inside the barn only for Applejack to slam the door on her neck. "Yup! Construction! That's my story, and I'm stickin' to it." Applejack chuckled nervously, and then gulped as Pinkie Pie continued to glare at her before stepping back. "Okey... dokey... lokey." Pinkie Pie said as she left angrily. Once she was gone Applejack sighed in relief as Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy came out and also sighed in relief. Back inside Applejack's house, Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, and the CMCs were busy in the kitchen. Apple Bloom was baking some kind of chocolate dish. Reiner was reading from a cook book, and telling her what to put in. "Alright now that you've got everything mix it all together". He told her. Apple Bloom nodded and did what she was told. As she was doing so Sweetie Belle tried to sneak her hoof into the batter and have a taste only for Apple Bloom to smack her hoof away. "Yow"! Sweetie Belle yelped as she looked up to see Apple Bloom glaring at her. "Wait, until everything is done". The earth pony filly stated. "Aww, but Apple Bloom". Sweetie Belle began to complain only for Apple Bloom's face to get very serious. "I said to wait, didn't I". She asked coldly. Sweetie Belle gulped, and quickly nodded her head. Apple Bloom's scowl instantly turned into a happy smile. "Wonderful". She said cheerful as she continued baking while humming a cheerful toon. Twilight, Reiner, Bertholdt, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo all stared at her in shock. "Talk about a mood swing". They all thought unanimously. Back in the alley where Pinkie Pie began her chase with Rainbow Dash she was angirly pacing around as she ranted to Gummy about what had happend. "Secrets and lies! It's all secrets and lies with those ponies! They're up to something, Gummy! Something they don't want me to know about! Well, I'm gonna know about it! I'm gonna know about it big time! And I know just who's gonna tell me all about it. Tell me all about it big time!" She declared. Pinkie Pie walked towards Twilight's house, and just her like Spike was outside watering the garden. Pinkie walked over to him. "Hey Spike". Pinkie greeted omiously. Spike jumped up in suprise and turned back to face Pinkie Pie. "Oh uh, hey Pinkie Pie". What brings you here"? He asked. "Oh nothing, I was just wondering if you'd like to go back to Sugarcube Corner with me". Pinkie Pie stated her eye twitching. "Um what for"? Spike asked. "Oh just to answer a few questions for me". Pinkie Pie answered. "Um, well Twilight really needs me to do some important chores today so I". "I have gems". Pinkie Pie said intterupting Spike. That got to baby dragon to perk up. "Gems"?! He asked excitedly mouth watering. Pinkie Pie nodded. "Alright let's go"! Spike exclaimed as he ran to Sugarcube Corner Pinkie Pie following behind with a sinister grin. "I'll get to the bottom of this". She thought to herself. Once they arrived a Sugarcube Corner Pinkie Pie made Spike sit down in a chair at the end of a table. She then presented him with a large bowl of gemstones. Spike looked at them in amazment. "Wow! Nice spread!" Spike said as his mouth watered some more. Pinkie Pie smiled. "It's all your's". She told him. Then she put a lamp right into Spike's face causing him to stumble back onto the chair. "All you have to do is talk". Pinkie Pie said coldly. Spike was confused at first, but then he assumed that Pinkie Pie just wanted to have a conversation, and Spike as good at those. "That's it? Oh, you got it. Okay... uh, beautiful weather we're having, eh? I love a sunny spring day, don't you? The birds chirpin' and the flowers bloomin'." Spike began only for Pinkie to angrily intterupt him. "No, no, no. Talk about our friends." She told him. Of course Spike thought she just wanted to talk about them in general so that's what he did. "Oh, okay. Let's see, there's Twilight Sparkle. She's a unicorn. Good with magic. A real brainiac. And then you got Rarity. Total knockout. Twilight seems to think I don't even have a chance with her, but... eh, what does she know? Let's see. There's... there's Fluttershy, a Pegasus who's afraid of heights. Heh, what's up with that? Apple Bloom, such a kind filly, who cares about everyone, and knows how to put ponies in their place when they get out of line. Bertholdt Hoover, doesn't say much, but I mean the guy means well. Reiner Braun, the guy is so brave, and cool I mean he's like a big brother to everypony wouldn't you agree". Spike stated. Pinkie Pie was getting more, and more frustrated. "Grr! No! You're not understanding me! I want you to confess!" She demanded, however this only confused Spike even more. "Confess"? "Confess"! Pinkie Pie repeated. Spike remebered all the things he had done, and kept secret, so he was unsure of what Pinkie Pie wanted him to confess. In a panic he said the first thing that came to his mind. "I'm the one who spilled juice all over Twilight's copy of "Magical Mysteries and Practical Potions"! He admidted. "And"? Pinkie Pie asked pestering him for more. "And I'm the one who used up all the hot water in Ponyville yesterday when I took a seven-hour bubble bath!" Spike stated. "Aaand?" Pinkie Pie asked again, her frustration growing by the second. "And sometimes... when no one's around... I do this". Spike pulled out a mirror and began to flex infront of it. "Lookin' good, Spike! Lookin' real good!" Pinkie Pie lost her patiences. "No! No! No! No!" She screamed. Spike was getting more and more confused and scared, he didn't know what Pinkie Pie wanted, or what she wanted him to confess. "W-What do you wanna hear? Tell me what you want me to say, and I'll say it!" Spike stated, that was when Pinkie Pie snaped. "Tell me that my friends are all lying to me and avoiding me because they don't like my parties and they don't want to be my friends anymore!" She shrieked in anger. Spike not understanding the situation did just that. "Your friends are all lying to you and avoiding you 'cause they don't like your parties and they don't want to be your friends anymore!" He said. "AHA! I knew it"! Pinkie Pie exclaimed excitedly, but then her excetiment at being right soon turned to depression, her hair deflated, and was no longer poofy, her eyes filled with tears. "Oh no, my friends don't like my parties and they don't want to be my friends anymore." She said sadly. Spike meanwhile just sat at the table, and then gestured at the gems. "Um..... So". He asked sheepishly. Pinkie Pie just pushed the bowl towards him, and he quickly scarfed them all down. Once he was done Spike got up, and left Sugarcube Corner with a smile on his face. "Thanks for the gems Pinkie". he said as he ran off. Pinke Pie just nodded as he left. Once he was gone Pinkie Pie finally broke down, and let her tears flow. Both Mr, and Mrs. Cake we're worried. They had seen Pinkie Pie run up to her room crying, and after about twenty minutes they decieded to check on her. "Pinkie dear, are you alright"? Asked Mrs. Cake. When she got no answer Mr. Cake gentely opened the door, and the two of them found Pinkie Pie on her bed sobbing into her pillow. They walked up to her. "Oh honey what happend"? Asked Mrs. Cake. Pinkie Pie could hardly speak do to how hard she was crying, but she manged to get out through several chokes. " M-my f-friends don't like me anymore"! She wailed. "Why would you think that"? Asked Mr. Cake. "None of them wanted to come to Gummy's after birthday party, and they've all been lying to me". She sniffled. Mr. and Mrs. Cake both shared a look with each other, both of them knew what her friends were really doing, but right now they both knew they had to be there Pinkie Pie. Mrs. Cake gentely pulled Pinkie Pie into a hug, and let the party pony sob into her chest while humming a soft tune to her. It was very much like a mother comforting her child when they were sad. Mr. Cake gentely rubbed Pinkie Pie's back. "Your friends still like you". He whispered. "You may not think that now, but you'll see eventually that they are still you're friends". He said softly. Pinkie Pie said nothing, and continued to cry. After Pinkie Pie was able to calm down, Mr. and Mrs. Cake left the room to leave her alone for a while. They both hoped she wouldn't do anything too crazy. But she did. "If my old friends don't want to come to Gummy's Party". She said. "I'll just make some new ones". stated as she began laughing maniacally. It took quite a bit to set everything up, but soon Gummy's After Party was ready. However Pinkie's old friends weren't with her. Instead, she decieded to make imagenairy friends out of items from around the room. Her new "friends" included, a bag a flower, a pile of rocks, a bucket of turnips, and a clump of lint. "Thank you all so much for coming! It means so much to Gummy." Pinkie Pie said to the objects. She was smiling again, but it wasn't her normal happy smile. Instead it seemed like the smile of someone who was on the verge of pure insanity. Her hair wasn't it's usaually poofy self either, instead it was just droopy, and striaght. "Can I have some more punch"? Pinkie Pie made the bucket of turnips say. "Well, of course you can have some more punch, Mr. Turnip." Pinkie Pie replied. "This is one great pahty! You really outdone yourself!" She said as the pile of rocks. "Why thank you Rocky". Pinkie Pie stated. "I'm having a delightful time as well". Pinkie Pie voiced as the clump of lint. "I'm so glad, Sir Lintsalot." "Might I trouble you for anozer slice of cake?" She asked as the bag of Flour. "Anything for you, Madame le Flour." Pinkie said "I'm just glad none o' them ponies showed up." Said Rocky. This caused Pinkie Pie to look over. Part of her was still holding out hope what Spike had said wasn't true. "Oh they're not so bad". Pinkie Pie said in defense as her eye lids seemed to shrink. "Not so bad?! Puh-lease! They're a buncha loosers"! Rocky retorted. "Oh, c'mon now. "Losers" might be a little strong, dont'cha think?" Pinkie Pie chuckled. "After the way they treated you? I say "losers" isn't strong enough." Said Sir Lintsalot. Hearing that made Pinkie Pie stop, and think. "It was pretty rude". she admited. "Pretty rude? It was downright deespicable"! Exclaimed Madame le Flour. Pinkie Pie soon relaized that they were right. "It was wasn't it"? "If I were you I'd never speak to them again". Stated Mr. Turnip. "You know what? I'm not gonna speak to them ever again. And I'm not gonna invite them to another party as long as I live! They don't deserve to be invited to my parties. Not after the way they've been acting." Pinkie Pie replied as the objects all seemed to cheer. "Deespicable"! Madame le Flour Stated again. "Such Loosers". Said Sir Lintsalot. "Yes zat is right". Madame le Flour agreed as Pinkie Pie descened further into madness, and continued to voice the characters as if they were really there. "Well done"! She said as Mr. Turnip "Yeah"! She stated as Sir Lintsalot "You show 'em"! She voiced as Rocky, but just then Pinkie Pie's little breakdown was intterupted by a knock at the door. "Who could that be"? Pinkie Pie wondered. The door opened and in walked Rainbow Dash, Reiner, Braun, and Bertholdt Hoover. Pinkie Pie looked at them all, and scowled as the all walked in. "Hey there Pinkie Pie". Rainbow Dash greeted. "Hey". Pinkie Pie muttered. The three of them looked at each other in confusion before Rainbow Dash spoke up again. "Sorry I was in such a rush earlier. Had some place to be and couldn't slow down and say, "Hello." You know how it goes." She stated. "And Bertholdt, and I are sorry we couldn't talk to you soon either, but you know cleaning makes you busy right". Reiner replied. Pinkie Pie glared at them. "Yeah, I know how it goes". She said bitterly confusing them more. "Yeah... so, why don't you come with us over to Sweet Apple Acres?" Bertholdt asked. "No thanks, I'm spending time with my real friends. Isn't that right, Madame le Flour"? Pinkie Pie replied. Oui! Zat iz correct, madame. Seeing how crazy Pinkie Pie had seem to have become worried the three other ponies. "Uh Pinkie Pie, you okay"? Reiner asked with a concerned look on his face as Pinkie continued to talk to her "new friends". "Another slice of cake Sir Lintsalot". She asked before making the clump of lint say "I'd love one". Knowing they had to act fast Rainbow Dash spoke up. "Aaallrighty. What do you say we get on out of Creepytown and head over to Applejack's..." She said, "Yeah, everypony's waiting for us anyways, plus there's a special suprise". Bertholdt replied as they walked towards Pinkie who shoved the bucket turnips infront of them "She's not going anywhere"! exclaimed Mr. Turnip. "I most certainly am not. I'm having a wonderful time right here." Pinkie Pie agreed. "You really should come with us". Reiner said but then Rocky appeared infront of him. "You heard the lady! She ain't goin' nowheres, chump"! This made Rainbow Dash cross as she flew up to Rocky. "Where do you get off calling Reiner a chump? Chump!" She then rolled her eyes as she realized what she had done, and sighed. "Ugh... That's it. Party's over. Come on, Pinkie Pie!" Rainbow Dash said. "No"! Pinkie Pie retorted. "Pinkie please it's time to hang out with your real friends, and not imaginary ones". Reiner explained. That made Pinkie Pie gasp as she pretended to cover the ears of the objects around her. "They are not imagnairy"! she exclaimed. I have never been more offened then I am now"! She said as Sir Lintsalot. Rainbow Dash just rolled her eyes. "Pinkie Pie lets go". She ordered. "I said no"! Pinkie Pie said. Rainbow Dash then tried to force Pinkie Pie out of the house as Reiner, and Bertholdt looked on. "You... have to... come with... us"! She struggled. "No... I... don't!" Pinkie Pie said before sitting on Rainbow Dash's face. Rainbow Dash pulled herself free and fell into Bertholdt, and Reiner. She looked up at them, and they nodded. Rainbow Dash then looked back at Pinkie Pie. "Okay Pinkie Pie, you win you don't have to come with us". She said, "Good, now if you'll excuese me I have a party to get back too". Pinkie Pie stated. "Alright you do that". Rainbow Dash said as she, Reiner, and Bertholdt left. Pinkie Pie sighed with relieve. "Finally. now where we're MMPH"! Pinkie Pie was interupted when she was placed in what seemed to be a giant sack. "HEY WHAT'S GOING HERE LET ME OUT"! She screamed. "Sorry Pinkie but this is for your own good"! Reiner stated. Hearing his voice Pinkie Pie began to thrash violently inside the sack. "REINER BRAUN WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?! i DEMAND YOU LET ME OUT OF HERE RIGHT NOW!" She screamed. Reiner ignored her as he, Rainbow Dash, and Bertholdt ran down the stairs and past Mr. and Mrs. Cake. "Take care you four". Mr. Cake said with a small smirk on his face. "MMMPH MMMHPH MMMHPH!" Pinkie Screamed as the ran all the wall the Sweet Apple Acres. Once they arrived Rainbow Dash sighed. " We're... here..." She said as Reiner let Pinkie who was now seething out of the sack. Rainbow Dash opened the door of the barn, and in stood Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "SUPRISE"! They all shouted with glee, however Pinkie Pie just stood there with an angry expresion on her face. "I thought she'd be more excited". Fluttershy stated. "I know". Sweetie Belle replied confused. That was when Pinkie Pie spoke up. "Excited? Excited?! Why would I be excited to attend my own farewell party?!" Pinkie Pie demanded causing the others to gasp. "Farewell Party"? Twilight said in confusion. "Yes! You don't like me anymore, so you decided to kick me out of the group and throw a great, big party to celebrate! A "Farewell to Pinkie Pie" party!" Pinkie Pie accused. "Why in the world would you think we didn't like you anymore, sugarcube?" Applejack asked. Pinkie Pie's fury grew, how dare they ask something like that. "Why? Why? Why?! Because you've been lying to me and avoiding me all day, that's why!" That was when the others all smiled. "Uh yeah, because we wanted you're party to be a suprise". Rainbow Dash stated. "We'd been planning this party for such a long time, we had to make excuses for why we couldn't attend Gummy's party so that we could get everything ready for yours." Rarity continued. " If this is a farewell party, why does the cake I picked up from Sugarcube Corner say "Happy Birthday, Pinkie Pie"?" Twilight asked. "And why would I bake your favorite Apple Cinnamon buns"? Apple Bloom inquired. Pinke Pie looked around, the ballons, the cake, the cinnamom buns, and soon her hair poofed back up into it's orignal shape as she smiled from ear to ear. "Because it's my birthday! Ooh, how could I have forgotten my own birthday?" She said as she pulled the others in for a hug. Her friends all sighed in relief. Just then Apple Bloom spoke up. "Uh Pinkie my leg's still broken remember". "Oh, right sorry". Pinkie Pie said as she dropped them, and began jumping around. "This is amazing, and you like me so much you decided to throw me a surprise party!" she squealed with happiness. "Of course you're are friend Pinkie". Reiner stated. "And that will never change". Bertholdt Replied. "That's what we've been trying to tell you, darling." Rarity chipped in. Pinkie Pie stopped jumping and looked down. "I know, I was just so convinced you didn't like me anymore that I let myself doubt you, I'm sorry". Pinkie Pie apologized. Twilight walked over and gave her a reassuring smile. "It's okay Pinkie Pie, it could happen to any of us". She said. "Uh Uh-huh! It sure would." Rainbow Dash replied. "Don't worry about it". Fluttershy replied. "I'm sure Apple Bloom would have proabaly reacted the same way you did if she was in your postion Scootaloo laughed earning her a strong punch to the back of the head from the very filly she was talking about. "Ow!" Scootaloo yelped only to shut up when she saw the glare Apple Bloom was giving her. "I'm just glad we weren't replaced by a bucket of turnips, a sack of flour, a pile of rocks, and a thing of lint". Reiner stated "Huh"? Twilight asked looking at Pinkie Pie who smiled sheepishly. "You don't wanna know". Rainbow Dash assured. "All right, everpony! Enough of this gab. Let's party!" Applejack said as she turned on the record player. Everyone began having a good time. Twilight, Pinkie, and Rarity danced, Fluttershy, and Applejack tossed a baloon around, Reiner, and Bertholdt played pin the tail on the pony, the CMCs sat on the ground and enjoyed some of Apple Bloom's cinnimom Apple Buns, Rainbow Dash helped herself to some cake, and Spike just danced alone while Twilight recited her letter to the Princess. "Dear Princess Celestia, I am writing to you from the most delightful party. I'm not only having a great time with my friends, but also was given the opportunity to learn a valuable lesson about friendship. Always expect the best from your friends, and never assume the worst. Rest assured that a good friend always has your best interests at heart. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle As the friends continued to party Pinkie then spoke up. "You all wouldn't mind if we celebrated Gummy's after-birthday party too, would you? His party was cut short, and he's pretty upset about it." She asked. "Oh, definitely." Said Fluttershy "Aww he was upset"? Rarity stated. Uh-huh sure". Applejack replied. "You bet". Said Apple Bloom. "I'm down". Scootaloo replied. "Totally". Stated Sweetie Belle "Of course". Said Reiner. "Sounds amazing". Replied Bertholdt. "For Gummy yeah"! Said Rainbow Dash. "Yeah, why not? Let's have a party for Gummy." Twilight giggled. The day has finally arrived. The Grand Galloping Gala. The girls are all expecting it to be the best night ever, while Reiner, and Bertholdt assume it to be a good place to discuss their next course of action, while Spike just wants to hang with his friends. However for the girls they learn the hard way to not always expect things to go the way they want to. Next Episode. The Best Night Ever Author's Note Characters in Order of Appearance Reiner Braun Bertholdt Hoover Pinkie Pie Gummy Daisy Berry Punch Amethyst Star Twilight Sparkle Rarity Sweetie Belle Applejack Apple Bloom Rainbow Dash Scootaloo Fluttershy Spike Mrs. Cake Mr. Cake
