Thunderlane to the Rescueby BronyxyChapters1 Lookout Duty2 Riding out the Storm3 Road to Recovery1 Lookout DutyThe silhouette of a pegasus stood majestically on the high bluff, looking out over the forming weather system some way distant to the west. The first of the deceptively gentle breezes that heralded the onset of the storm tousled his mane and rippled his feathers. A veil of clouds was being drawn progressively across the late afternoon sunshine, as the azure sky was ushered prematurely from sight, portending the fury that was preparing to be unleashed. “I know somepony has got to be on watch” he said with a sigh to nothing in particular, “But why me, and why today?” Today, as every buckball fan knew, was the pivotal match in the season’s playoffs. As an avid fan, he had tried desperately to swap this duty with all the other weather ponies on his shift, offering to take double shifts and even resorting to bribery, but all to no avail. He had drawn the short straw, and nopony was going to help him out. Of course, weather ponies didn’t always post lookouts when a storm came through, but today was unusual; the Cloudsdale weather factory was experimenting with a new technique for making lightning storms. The previous method that had worked for countless generations was dependent on resources that were starting to become rare in Equestria, and efforts had been directed into developing a more sustainable alternative. Although scientists believed that they had probably managed to formulate a new production method that replicated the old fashioned lightning storms in every detail, there was still a degree of concern. With expectations running high, the first of the new class of lightning storm was being rolled out over a large uninhabited area to the west of Canterlot, known unofficially as the weather factory’s test range, and lookouts had been stationed at key points along the route, just to be safe. Staring out through his amber eyes, the dark grey pegasus kept his vigil until he felt that the buffeting from the wind was starting to get a little too uncomfortable and then unfurled his wings, giving the area under the advancing cloudfront one last good look before taking to the air. Suddenly he stopped; it could be that the wind was whipping up dirt into his eyes, but he thought he saw a speck moving under the deepening shadows. He stopped, shook his head and stared a little harder, looking for confirmation of what he thought he had seen. There it was again; two small light colour dots contrasted against the deep darkness of the storm behind them. He knew that it was feeling uncomfortable where he was, so could only imagine how difficult it must be flying further within the storm’s grip. He checked again to see that his eyes weren’t playing tricks on him, then sprang into the air, turning into the storm rather than heading away from it as had been his original plan. The winds grew stronger and more unpredictable as he moved further in, the tiny spots he could have so easily overlooked now showing they had wings and starting to show hints of colour; one appearing to be lavender blue whilst the other was vanilla. It was the lighter coloured one that was having real trouble in the unpredictable and unceasingly violent winds, whilst the other was trying to protect it. The dark grey stallion fought against the elements and once he had just about got close enough to see the fear in their eyes, a lightning bolt shot out from the cloud and scorched through the air with the sound like all nature being ripped apart. The vanilla pegasus screamed and its wings folded up as it began to tumble towards the ground. Speeding forward with a power he did not believe he possessed, he dived to reach the falling pony, its terrified young screams ringing loudly in his ears even over the relentless roar of the wind. Reaching out, he gripped the struggling filly with his forelegs and fought to regain height where he could meet up with her lavender blue companion above them. “That way!” he shouted over the intensifying sound bearing down oppressively around them. The mare nodded and fought to make headway as she had been directed. The filly had stopped struggling now and was holding on tightly to her rescuer who was silently praying he had the strength to get the pair of them out of this building maelstrom. Just then, another lightning bolt flashed close by the fleeing ponies causing them all to jump while the filly gripped on even more tightly, sobbing uncontrollably with fright. He would liked to have comforted her, but was too busy saving his energy for flying, the closeness of the last lightning bolt spurring him on to getting out as fast as he could. “I … I don’t think I can make it!” the mare cried out, panic evident in her voice. “You can’t stop now!” he shouted back, “Keep going!” He knew they couldn’t consider landing because the crosswinds nearest to the ground would be so violent that they would be dashed into the jagged rocks beneath them if they tried, so had no choice. Every wingbeat was a hard won success in their desperate struggle, but no matter how hard they pushed, they seemed to be simply staying still. Another lightning bolt crashed menacingly as the storm grew in self-confidence, as if toying with them like a cat with a pair if terrified mice. This time it sounded further behind them, providing at least a small sliver of hope that they were pulling away from the dangerous heart of the storm. The mare seemed to understand too, and the pair of them flapped harder than they thought possible, boosted by the thought of having to make progress, slow though it was. They toiled away, the mare risking an occasional glance at the filly hanging grimly onto the strong forelegs that embraced her tight to the body of the dark grey stallion, her small eyes scrunched tightly shut as they drew away from the storm wingbeat at a time. He, in his turn, watched the lavender blue mare intently for a few seconds, analysing her flight pattern to determine how strong a flyer she was, and whether he thought she could make it. She was tiring; it was going to be a close run thing. It wasn’t just the strong winds, but the buffeting that made their escape particularly difficult, and worse, their progress to outrun the black-hearted storm was diminishing by the minute. He looked back to the tiring mare, then down to the ground, scanning left and right, making regular sweeps of the landscape as it slowly unfolded below him, searching desperately for any signs of shelter. He knew they needed a large slice of luck and needed it quickly, or she would be sucked into the storm and pounded to pieces and then probably slammed to the ground for an encore. That was something he didn’t want to consider too closely. As if in answer to his prayers, he saw a plateau emerging from the rock strewn landscape below, bordered on one side by a steep ridge that snaked over the landscape, probably the sides of a dried up riverbed. Focusing more closely on the long deserted riverbanks, he became gradually aware of some dark patches. “Caves?” he dared to think. He took another sidewards glance at the mare who was now clearly starting to lose the coordination of her wingbeats and looked about to fall out of the sky. There was no choice now; he signalled to dive. The dark grey stallion led the mare down, the prospect that he may have found an answer to their dilemma spurring her on. Another lightning bolt jolted the pair of them, and the mare gasped, momentarily losing her focus and began to fall. The stallion knew he couldn’t save both ponies and wasn’t prepared to drop the terrified filly, so called out, “We’re almost there! Hold it together!” Somehow his authority penetrated through her mounting panic and she fought to regain a steady wingbeat, looking back over to him with a nervous smile that barely covered her fear. “Come on! Those caves down there! Right ahead of you!” he gestured, not certain himself if they were even big enough to accept the three ponies, or if they were even caves at all. If he was wrong, they wouldn’t have long to reflect on his mistake. As an experienced weather pony, he anticipated the difficult terrain and trimmed his wings in advance of an updraught that rushed up to meet him. When it hit, he was ready for it and kept the right way up as he sped towards the mouths of the caves speeding up towards him. He wanted to look back and see if the mare had anticipated the updraught, but knew it was more important for him to focus on his own landing, seeing as he had direct responsibility for the filly clutching tightly to his forelegs. He was almost on top of the cave entrances now; the first was blind, so he kept going to the second praying hard for it to offer even the most tentative refuge; he was too low and too slow to recover height and fly away now if it wasn’t. The second cave entrance turned out to be more a trick of the light and offered nothing; all hopes now pinned on the third and final cave. He started seriously thinking what he could possibly do if this also turned out to be useless as had the other two; his options were exhausted, this had to work! As he approached the final cave he could see it extended in at least a short distance and backwinged furiously to burn off the last of his speed as he prepared for landing in a confined space, mindful to leave room for the mare following closely behind. He offered a final prayer to Celestia and held the terrified filly tightly, realising that he wouldn’t be able to land on all four hooves if he was to keep her safe. He pulled up sharply, dipping into the cave mouth as his rear hooves thumped onto the solid rock floor. The shock of suddenly being out of the murderous wind coupled with his additional landing weight made his legs buckle as he absorbed the unpleasantly severe jolt of the landing. Still holding protectively to his precious cargo, he knew he had to move quickly to get further into the cave so the mare could have a bit more space for her approach. He strode back into the darkness further in the cave, but a sharp pain in his hind leg forced him to abruptly shift his weight, and he had only limped back a few steps before the shape of a pegasus mare blocked out the daylight. Next thing there was a clatter and scraping of hooves as she misjudged her landing, skidding then overbalancing and finally crashing into the wall of the cave. Fortunately, ferns and climbing weeds adorned the walls and she had a much softer landing than hitting solid rock. At the very least she was winded, but she was out of the storm. 2 Riding out the Storm“Aunt Cloudy! Aunt Cloudy!” screamed the filly wriggling clear of the stallion’s protective embrace and running over to the fallen pegasus. The lavender blue mare groaned and staggered as she tried to regain her balance, but elected to lay down instead. “Are you OK?” asked the stallion, fearing she had broken something. “Yes … yes, I’m fine” she panted, looking dazed, the sound of the wind whipping away her words. The filly wrapped her forelegs around her neck and gave her a big hug. “Come further inside where it’s safer!” he called gesturing to them, “The wind’s getting too strong outside!” Even if they couldn’t hear his words, there was no doubting the urgency in his eyes, and so moved towards him in response. “Thank you for saving us” she said gratefully, “We would have been lost out there if you hadn’t known about this cave.” “Glad to help” he replied, clearly not feeling well, “Let me see if you’re hurt.” She held still while he limped around her, taking in a wealth of bruising and scrapes, but finding nothing serious. “The name’s Cloud Kicker by the way” she offered by way of introduction, ”And I know a little bit about first aid. Care to show me that leg?” “Hi, I’m Thunderlane” he replied, wincing as she probed about his leg, “We’ve chosen quite an unusual place to get introduced, wouldn’t you say?” “Hey, hold still!” she scolded light-heartedly while continuing her examination. Just then, an uprooted tree flew past the cave mouth in a flash, and the rain front that they had fought to keep ahead of broke, the dim light within the cave getting noticeably darker. The ponies were all stunned for a moment, until Cloud Kicker broke the silence by saying nonchalantly, ”You’ve sprained it; nothing broken. It’s going to hurt like hell when you put any weight on it for the next few days.” Then she extended her neck and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you, Thunderlane” she said, staring into his eyes, ”Thank you for rescuing us and for getting us to safety; that was some flying.” “More luck than anything“ he confessed, “So tell me, who’s your young friend?” “She’s Princess Erroria.” “A Princess?” he gasped. “No, not a real Princess” she giggled, ”It’s just her name.” “One day I’ll be a real Princess” the filly chipped in, “And then I’ll make you Captain of the Guard and give you a big shiny medal for being so brave!” “Well, thank you Princess” he replied, bowing respectfully, “I’d like that.” Another lightning bolt flashed, lighting up the cave for a brief second. It was cramped and squalid, but above all it was safe, even though the young filly screamed at the noise. “You know Princess, if you count from the flash to the bang, you’ll be able to work out how far away the storm is. Then you’ll know when it’s moving away …” His last words were lost by the sound of a thunderclap echoing around the cave. The scared filly jumped, her fur on end, before running for the shelter afforded by Cloud Kicker. "Look, this storm’s gonna take some time. I for one can’t wait to take the weight off my leg, if you’ll excuse me ladies.” He lay down facing the cave mouth and the lavender blue mare followed suit, leaving just a small gap for a young filly to be sandwiched in between them. Outside it was dark, the intense rain appearing as parallel silver lines at the cave mouth. “Kinda lucky we didn’t try to outrun it, huh?” said Cloud Kicker, “Wouldn’t like to try flying through that.” “So why were you out here today, if you don’t mind my asking?” “I had promised Princess a picnic and hadn’t heard a storm was coming through. Soon as we saw how big it was, we fled. She’s my niece, did I tell you?” “I’ve got a brother her age” he concurred, “Would be kinda nice getting them to meet up once we’re out of here.” “Oooh!” squealed the filly, ”What’s he like?” They spoke for over an hour about small inconsequential things, and soon the grown-ups found they shared more in common than either would have realised, his growing attraction to her being rewarded by her respect of his courage and selflessness in protecting the filly. The ponies sheltered as the storm raged above them, the easy conversation keeping them all happy, especially Princess, who felt reassured by the calming tones of the happy conversation between her aunt whom she loved, and the heroic stallion she wanted to be Captain of her Guard. She did never quite get used to the loud sound of the thunderclaps, but did get very adept at counting distance and taking delight in telling the others when it was finally on its way past. When the rain finally stopped, Princess trotted towards the mouth of the cave to take stock of the world outside. Thunderlane turned his head to look at his companion in the growing light and found himself meeting her muzzle as it came in to give him a tender kiss. He looked a little surprised, but accepted the token of her affection gratefully, and felt himself break out into a beaming smile when she rested her head against him. “Thank you” she whispered, snuggling up close. The filly looked around from the mouth of the cave to tell the others that she could see the storm clearing and a rainbow shining vibrantly against the dull background, but saw instead that they were kissing. She turned away to look back at the rainbow once more, her heart beating rapidly with the prospect that her two favourite ponies of the moment may, possibly, soon become an item and letting her thoughts drift to what the wedding would be like. “How did you know this place was here?” asked Cloud Kicker, “Is it somewhere you’ve brought lots of mares before?” He blushed at her playful teasing. “I didn’t know it was here” he replied honestly, “All I knew was we couldn’t outrun the storm, and I took a chance.” “Do you take chances often?” she purred sweetly, looking deep into his eyes. “N … no” he stammered, ”I’m a weather pony and I don’t …” She covered his mouth with another kiss, and when she pulled back he was silent. “Would you like to take a chance on me?” she asked softly, teasing him with a gentle forehoof. “Yes” he said, looking back at her with an earnest conviction in his eyes, “Yes, I would.” *** The final rays of evening sunshine shot like horizontal spears through the gloom, framing their faces in a soft orange glow. It was the first opportunity they had to see the surroundings that had protected them from the extreme weather that had rolled over them that afternoon. It was little more than the size of a stall with water dripping down the walls, maintaining isolated clumps of ferns that seemed to thrive in the damp and the dark. Nopony except Thunderlane realised how close they had all come to disaster; both of his newfound friends seemingly having complete faith in him. “I have to report back to the weather factory in Cloudsdale” he announced, “And I don’t think we’ve got too much daylight left. Can you fly?” She unfurled her wings and flexed them out, giving a few flaps. “Yes, I’m fine, thank you” she confirmed, “Princess, would you check your wings and see if you are ready to fly home?” “Yes, Aunt Cloudy” she replied, obediently doing as she was told. Thunderlane watched closely, remembering how he had seen her fall from the sky earlier and was pleasantly surprised to see she looked none the worse for wear. “Great kid” he commented admiringly, looking up to Cloud Kicker whose cheeks flushed brightly at the compliment, “And you’re really nice too.” “You know you’re my hero, right” she said, helping him up onto his hooves, “Nothing’s going to change that.” “Thank you” he replied, a little abashed, “Would it cut too much into your schedule if you came with me to the infirmary?” “Canterlot?” she asked. “No, Cloudsdale.” “I’ll be with you, but I don’t know how Princess is going to cope with the flight; I may have to drop her off first.” “OK” he said, “Ready?” “Princess” she cooed in an encouraging voice, “Shall we go now?” She nodded and they all moved out to the mouth of the cave where Cloud Kicker was first to open her wings and lift off into the clearing sky. “I’m coming Aunt Cloudy!” called the filly, her little wings flapping a lot faster than hers. Thunderlane winced as he pushed up through his hind legs to get into the air, thankful that neither of them could hear the curse under his breath. They grouped up and followed the path of the storm, safely behind and out of its reach. Princess soon started showing off by flying loops around the grown-ups, prompting them both to agree that she really should consider going to Junior Speedsters Flight Camp and try her luck at becoming a Wonderbolt. She heard this, of course, and started showing off all the more. By the time they approached Cloudsdale, the sun had retreated below the horizon, leaving behind an aura of pinks, oranges and purples to act as a backdrop to the remaining clouds that had stayed to usher in the night. “You’ve really got to get that leg seen to” Cloud Kicker reminded him as they began to make out the different buildings, and could see that Thunderlane was not heading towards the infirmary. “No, no time” he replied, “They’ve probably organised search parties by now and I can’t make them search in the dark while I get seen to; some of them might get hurt.” “I didn’t see them showing such concern for you” she reflected bitterly. “The area should have been swept just before the storm arrived” he said, trying to puzzle out why Cloud Kicker and Princess Erroria hadn’t been spotted and escorted away sooner, ”And nopony was expecting me to head into the storm after all. Besides, once it had built up momentum, there was no way to stop it.” “If you say so, but I’m staying with you” she turned to smile at him, “For your own good, you know.” 3 Road to RecoveryThunderlane led his two new friends to the weather factory and touched down as close to the main entrance as he dared and tried to walk forward, but his hindleg was hurting far worse and he almost fell the instant he put weight on it. “Hey Thunderlane!” called Soarin, striding out of the large building, “Where you been, bro?” “Hiding in a cave while the storm went over” he replied, “I guess they’re sending out search parties if they’ve called in the Wonderbolts.” “Yeah, the first patrols went out over an hour ago” he confirmed, “We’d better go and tell them to call it off. Btw, what in Equestria happened to you?” “I would file a report myself” Thunderlane offered apologetically, “But I kinda injured my leg and the nurse here …” “She’s his marefriend!” piped up Princess Erroria. “Oh, I see” said Soarin with a knowing smile, “Definitely want to hear this one.” “They’re going to be married …” continued the filly. “That’s quite enough, young lady” her aunt chastised softly. “But I’m sure you will” she went on, turning to Soarin, ”I saw them kissing and everything …” “Princess Erroria!” Cloud Kicker cut in, “I’m sure this gentlecolt doesn’t need to know all the details.” Soarin turned to Thunderlane and whispered admiringly, ”Fast work dude, she’s really cute too.” “I’ve also got very good hearing” said Cloud Kicker with a mischievous smile, at which Soarin blushed deeply. “They’re gonna get married, married, married ...” sang the filly cheerfully. “OK, bro. Look, I’ll go sort everything out for you. Just get yourself down to the infirmary and get that leg seen to.” “Thanks” he replied, “But just one last thing, who was flying the sweep over the weather factory’s test range today?” “Er, dunno. Why?” “Well whoever it was didn’t see that these two lovely ladies were in harm’s way. That’s why I had to go help them out. It could have ended a whole lot worse.” “Standby one, I’ll go find out.” Soarin went back into the building and spoke to a receptionist, returning shortly with a clipboard. He flipped through the pages with a forehoof, checking out the rosters for the day. “Ah, here we are” he announced, “Hoops, Dumb-bell and Score. Know these guys?” “I could have guessed” he sighed. “So, these three should have found us?” queried Cloud Kicker. “Provided you weren’t hiding under a rock, then yes. “So, if we were having a picnic on a large red and white check groundsheet, then they would have seen us?” “No doubt” said Thunderlane, “I’ll take it up right now.” “Oh no you won’t; you’ve got to get that leg fixed” insisted Cloud Kicker, bristling with determination, ”Leave it to me. Princess, take Thunderlane to the infirmary and make sure he sees a doctor. I’ll see both of you once I’ve done here.” Soarin moved out of the way, not daring to cross this mare who was clearly not in a mood to be stopped. “Can I help you get to the infirmary, Mr Thunderlane?” asked the filly looking up at him with big bright eyes. Soarin looked at him with a wry smile on his face, ”Bro, duty calls. I don’t think you need to hang around here; looks to me like your marefriend can handle herself.” “OK, I know when I’m beaten” Thunderlane acquiesced, sharing a hoofbump before returning his attention to the expectant filly, ”Come on Princess, let’s go.” *** Thunderlane lay on a hospital bed, his lower leg and ankle bandaged. He and Princess Erroria had been telling each other stories about brave pegasi in full armour rescuing fair damsels from mildly inconsiderate dragons, and if he was being honest, he would have to say he was rather enjoying it. A gentle knocking echoed across the room, stopping them in mid story as the door opened and a lavender blue mare stepped in. “How are you?” she asked sympathetically. “He’s doing really well” Princess chimed in immediately, “He’s taken his medicine and he’s resting up like the doctor told him to.” “I was actually asking him” said Cloud Kicker, correcting her niece with a loving smile. “Well, I’m practically a doctor” she replied, “I have made sure he does everything he’s supposed to, although I have to say he didn’t like the ice very much.” “I’m sure she’ll make a great doctor one day, if that’s what she wants to do” said Thunderlane supportively, “How did it go with you?” “Ah, yes” she replied, stiffening, “Your three friends decided that they didn’t want to miss the start of the buckball final today, so didn’t actually check the area, but reported back they had done it anyway.” “They what …?” he gasped in disbelief. “Well, it’s the last time they’re going to do that, or anything else in the weather factory for that matter; they’ve been fired.” “Best thing too” he agreed, “But you didn’t have to get involved, I would have done it as soon as I got back.” “Oh, and I’ve got a copy of the complaint I raised against them; I thought you might like it” she added, before dropping the sternness of her demeanour and adding seductively, “It’s got my name and address on it, just in case you wanted to call round.” Just then, the door moved again, and a grey colt looked round into the room. “Hey, Rumble” his brother greeted warmly, “Glad you could make it! This is Cloud Kicker and Princess Erroria, they’re very good friends of mine.” The filly made a beeline to the colt and started chatting happily about their adventures, giving the two grown-ups a brief diversion. “You know” whispered Cloud Kicker, “This is the first time we’ve had any ‘us’ time, if you know what I mean.” With that, she reached a forehoof over and gently stopped him from turning away as she planted a heartfelt kiss on his lips, and time stopped as they immersed themselves in the first of many intimate moments of closeness that were to come. “You see” giggled Princess Erroria excitedly, “I told you they were going to get married!”
1 Lookout DutyThe silhouette of a pegasus stood majestically on the high bluff, looking out over the forming weather system some way distant to the west. The first of the deceptively gentle breezes that heralded the onset of the storm tousled his mane and rippled his feathers. A veil of clouds was being drawn progressively across the late afternoon sunshine, as the azure sky was ushered prematurely from sight, portending the fury that was preparing to be unleashed. “I know somepony has got to be on watch” he said with a sigh to nothing in particular, “But why me, and why today?” Today, as every buckball fan knew, was the pivotal match in the season’s playoffs. As an avid fan, he had tried desperately to swap this duty with all the other weather ponies on his shift, offering to take double shifts and even resorting to bribery, but all to no avail. He had drawn the short straw, and nopony was going to help him out. Of course, weather ponies didn’t always post lookouts when a storm came through, but today was unusual; the Cloudsdale weather factory was experimenting with a new technique for making lightning storms. The previous method that had worked for countless generations was dependent on resources that were starting to become rare in Equestria, and efforts had been directed into developing a more sustainable alternative. Although scientists believed that they had probably managed to formulate a new production method that replicated the old fashioned lightning storms in every detail, there was still a degree of concern. With expectations running high, the first of the new class of lightning storm was being rolled out over a large uninhabited area to the west of Canterlot, known unofficially as the weather factory’s test range, and lookouts had been stationed at key points along the route, just to be safe. Staring out through his amber eyes, the dark grey pegasus kept his vigil until he felt that the buffeting from the wind was starting to get a little too uncomfortable and then unfurled his wings, giving the area under the advancing cloudfront one last good look before taking to the air. Suddenly he stopped; it could be that the wind was whipping up dirt into his eyes, but he thought he saw a speck moving under the deepening shadows. He stopped, shook his head and stared a little harder, looking for confirmation of what he thought he had seen. There it was again; two small light colour dots contrasted against the deep darkness of the storm behind them. He knew that it was feeling uncomfortable where he was, so could only imagine how difficult it must be flying further within the storm’s grip. He checked again to see that his eyes weren’t playing tricks on him, then sprang into the air, turning into the storm rather than heading away from it as had been his original plan. The winds grew stronger and more unpredictable as he moved further in, the tiny spots he could have so easily overlooked now showing they had wings and starting to show hints of colour; one appearing to be lavender blue whilst the other was vanilla. It was the lighter coloured one that was having real trouble in the unpredictable and unceasingly violent winds, whilst the other was trying to protect it. The dark grey stallion fought against the elements and once he had just about got close enough to see the fear in their eyes, a lightning bolt shot out from the cloud and scorched through the air with the sound like all nature being ripped apart. The vanilla pegasus screamed and its wings folded up as it began to tumble towards the ground. Speeding forward with a power he did not believe he possessed, he dived to reach the falling pony, its terrified young screams ringing loudly in his ears even over the relentless roar of the wind. Reaching out, he gripped the struggling filly with his forelegs and fought to regain height where he could meet up with her lavender blue companion above them. “That way!” he shouted over the intensifying sound bearing down oppressively around them. The mare nodded and fought to make headway as she had been directed. The filly had stopped struggling now and was holding on tightly to her rescuer who was silently praying he had the strength to get the pair of them out of this building maelstrom. Just then, another lightning bolt flashed close by the fleeing ponies causing them all to jump while the filly gripped on even more tightly, sobbing uncontrollably with fright. He would liked to have comforted her, but was too busy saving his energy for flying, the closeness of the last lightning bolt spurring him on to getting out as fast as he could. “I … I don’t think I can make it!” the mare cried out, panic evident in her voice. “You can’t stop now!” he shouted back, “Keep going!” He knew they couldn’t consider landing because the crosswinds nearest to the ground would be so violent that they would be dashed into the jagged rocks beneath them if they tried, so had no choice. Every wingbeat was a hard won success in their desperate struggle, but no matter how hard they pushed, they seemed to be simply staying still. Another lightning bolt crashed menacingly as the storm grew in self-confidence, as if toying with them like a cat with a pair if terrified mice. This time it sounded further behind them, providing at least a small sliver of hope that they were pulling away from the dangerous heart of the storm. The mare seemed to understand too, and the pair of them flapped harder than they thought possible, boosted by the thought of having to make progress, slow though it was. They toiled away, the mare risking an occasional glance at the filly hanging grimly onto the strong forelegs that embraced her tight to the body of the dark grey stallion, her small eyes scrunched tightly shut as they drew away from the storm wingbeat at a time. He, in his turn, watched the lavender blue mare intently for a few seconds, analysing her flight pattern to determine how strong a flyer she was, and whether he thought she could make it. She was tiring; it was going to be a close run thing. It wasn’t just the strong winds, but the buffeting that made their escape particularly difficult, and worse, their progress to outrun the black-hearted storm was diminishing by the minute. He looked back to the tiring mare, then down to the ground, scanning left and right, making regular sweeps of the landscape as it slowly unfolded below him, searching desperately for any signs of shelter. He knew they needed a large slice of luck and needed it quickly, or she would be sucked into the storm and pounded to pieces and then probably slammed to the ground for an encore. That was something he didn’t want to consider too closely. As if in answer to his prayers, he saw a plateau emerging from the rock strewn landscape below, bordered on one side by a steep ridge that snaked over the landscape, probably the sides of a dried up riverbed. Focusing more closely on the long deserted riverbanks, he became gradually aware of some dark patches. “Caves?” he dared to think. He took another sidewards glance at the mare who was now clearly starting to lose the coordination of her wingbeats and looked about to fall out of the sky. There was no choice now; he signalled to dive. The dark grey stallion led the mare down, the prospect that he may have found an answer to their dilemma spurring her on. Another lightning bolt jolted the pair of them, and the mare gasped, momentarily losing her focus and began to fall. The stallion knew he couldn’t save both ponies and wasn’t prepared to drop the terrified filly, so called out, “We’re almost there! Hold it together!” Somehow his authority penetrated through her mounting panic and she fought to regain a steady wingbeat, looking back over to him with a nervous smile that barely covered her fear. “Come on! Those caves down there! Right ahead of you!” he gestured, not certain himself if they were even big enough to accept the three ponies, or if they were even caves at all. If he was wrong, they wouldn’t have long to reflect on his mistake. As an experienced weather pony, he anticipated the difficult terrain and trimmed his wings in advance of an updraught that rushed up to meet him. When it hit, he was ready for it and kept the right way up as he sped towards the mouths of the caves speeding up towards him. He wanted to look back and see if the mare had anticipated the updraught, but knew it was more important for him to focus on his own landing, seeing as he had direct responsibility for the filly clutching tightly to his forelegs. He was almost on top of the cave entrances now; the first was blind, so he kept going to the second praying hard for it to offer even the most tentative refuge; he was too low and too slow to recover height and fly away now if it wasn’t. The second cave entrance turned out to be more a trick of the light and offered nothing; all hopes now pinned on the third and final cave. He started seriously thinking what he could possibly do if this also turned out to be useless as had the other two; his options were exhausted, this had to work! As he approached the final cave he could see it extended in at least a short distance and backwinged furiously to burn off the last of his speed as he prepared for landing in a confined space, mindful to leave room for the mare following closely behind. He offered a final prayer to Celestia and held the terrified filly tightly, realising that he wouldn’t be able to land on all four hooves if he was to keep her safe. He pulled up sharply, dipping into the cave mouth as his rear hooves thumped onto the solid rock floor. The shock of suddenly being out of the murderous wind coupled with his additional landing weight made his legs buckle as he absorbed the unpleasantly severe jolt of the landing. Still holding protectively to his precious cargo, he knew he had to move quickly to get further into the cave so the mare could have a bit more space for her approach. He strode back into the darkness further in the cave, but a sharp pain in his hind leg forced him to abruptly shift his weight, and he had only limped back a few steps before the shape of a pegasus mare blocked out the daylight. Next thing there was a clatter and scraping of hooves as she misjudged her landing, skidding then overbalancing and finally crashing into the wall of the cave. Fortunately, ferns and climbing weeds adorned the walls and she had a much softer landing than hitting solid rock. At the very least she was winded, but she was out of the storm.
2 Riding out the Storm“Aunt Cloudy! Aunt Cloudy!” screamed the filly wriggling clear of the stallion’s protective embrace and running over to the fallen pegasus. The lavender blue mare groaned and staggered as she tried to regain her balance, but elected to lay down instead. “Are you OK?” asked the stallion, fearing she had broken something. “Yes … yes, I’m fine” she panted, looking dazed, the sound of the wind whipping away her words. The filly wrapped her forelegs around her neck and gave her a big hug. “Come further inside where it’s safer!” he called gesturing to them, “The wind’s getting too strong outside!” Even if they couldn’t hear his words, there was no doubting the urgency in his eyes, and so moved towards him in response. “Thank you for saving us” she said gratefully, “We would have been lost out there if you hadn’t known about this cave.” “Glad to help” he replied, clearly not feeling well, “Let me see if you’re hurt.” She held still while he limped around her, taking in a wealth of bruising and scrapes, but finding nothing serious. “The name’s Cloud Kicker by the way” she offered by way of introduction, ”And I know a little bit about first aid. Care to show me that leg?” “Hi, I’m Thunderlane” he replied, wincing as she probed about his leg, “We’ve chosen quite an unusual place to get introduced, wouldn’t you say?” “Hey, hold still!” she scolded light-heartedly while continuing her examination. Just then, an uprooted tree flew past the cave mouth in a flash, and the rain front that they had fought to keep ahead of broke, the dim light within the cave getting noticeably darker. The ponies were all stunned for a moment, until Cloud Kicker broke the silence by saying nonchalantly, ”You’ve sprained it; nothing broken. It’s going to hurt like hell when you put any weight on it for the next few days.” Then she extended her neck and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you, Thunderlane” she said, staring into his eyes, ”Thank you for rescuing us and for getting us to safety; that was some flying.” “More luck than anything“ he confessed, “So tell me, who’s your young friend?” “She’s Princess Erroria.” “A Princess?” he gasped. “No, not a real Princess” she giggled, ”It’s just her name.” “One day I’ll be a real Princess” the filly chipped in, “And then I’ll make you Captain of the Guard and give you a big shiny medal for being so brave!” “Well, thank you Princess” he replied, bowing respectfully, “I’d like that.” Another lightning bolt flashed, lighting up the cave for a brief second. It was cramped and squalid, but above all it was safe, even though the young filly screamed at the noise. “You know Princess, if you count from the flash to the bang, you’ll be able to work out how far away the storm is. Then you’ll know when it’s moving away …” His last words were lost by the sound of a thunderclap echoing around the cave. The scared filly jumped, her fur on end, before running for the shelter afforded by Cloud Kicker. "Look, this storm’s gonna take some time. I for one can’t wait to take the weight off my leg, if you’ll excuse me ladies.” He lay down facing the cave mouth and the lavender blue mare followed suit, leaving just a small gap for a young filly to be sandwiched in between them. Outside it was dark, the intense rain appearing as parallel silver lines at the cave mouth. “Kinda lucky we didn’t try to outrun it, huh?” said Cloud Kicker, “Wouldn’t like to try flying through that.” “So why were you out here today, if you don’t mind my asking?” “I had promised Princess a picnic and hadn’t heard a storm was coming through. Soon as we saw how big it was, we fled. She’s my niece, did I tell you?” “I’ve got a brother her age” he concurred, “Would be kinda nice getting them to meet up once we’re out of here.” “Oooh!” squealed the filly, ”What’s he like?” They spoke for over an hour about small inconsequential things, and soon the grown-ups found they shared more in common than either would have realised, his growing attraction to her being rewarded by her respect of his courage and selflessness in protecting the filly. The ponies sheltered as the storm raged above them, the easy conversation keeping them all happy, especially Princess, who felt reassured by the calming tones of the happy conversation between her aunt whom she loved, and the heroic stallion she wanted to be Captain of her Guard. She did never quite get used to the loud sound of the thunderclaps, but did get very adept at counting distance and taking delight in telling the others when it was finally on its way past. When the rain finally stopped, Princess trotted towards the mouth of the cave to take stock of the world outside. Thunderlane turned his head to look at his companion in the growing light and found himself meeting her muzzle as it came in to give him a tender kiss. He looked a little surprised, but accepted the token of her affection gratefully, and felt himself break out into a beaming smile when she rested her head against him. “Thank you” she whispered, snuggling up close. The filly looked around from the mouth of the cave to tell the others that she could see the storm clearing and a rainbow shining vibrantly against the dull background, but saw instead that they were kissing. She turned away to look back at the rainbow once more, her heart beating rapidly with the prospect that her two favourite ponies of the moment may, possibly, soon become an item and letting her thoughts drift to what the wedding would be like. “How did you know this place was here?” asked Cloud Kicker, “Is it somewhere you’ve brought lots of mares before?” He blushed at her playful teasing. “I didn’t know it was here” he replied honestly, “All I knew was we couldn’t outrun the storm, and I took a chance.” “Do you take chances often?” she purred sweetly, looking deep into his eyes. “N … no” he stammered, ”I’m a weather pony and I don’t …” She covered his mouth with another kiss, and when she pulled back he was silent. “Would you like to take a chance on me?” she asked softly, teasing him with a gentle forehoof. “Yes” he said, looking back at her with an earnest conviction in his eyes, “Yes, I would.” *** The final rays of evening sunshine shot like horizontal spears through the gloom, framing their faces in a soft orange glow. It was the first opportunity they had to see the surroundings that had protected them from the extreme weather that had rolled over them that afternoon. It was little more than the size of a stall with water dripping down the walls, maintaining isolated clumps of ferns that seemed to thrive in the damp and the dark. Nopony except Thunderlane realised how close they had all come to disaster; both of his newfound friends seemingly having complete faith in him. “I have to report back to the weather factory in Cloudsdale” he announced, “And I don’t think we’ve got too much daylight left. Can you fly?” She unfurled her wings and flexed them out, giving a few flaps. “Yes, I’m fine, thank you” she confirmed, “Princess, would you check your wings and see if you are ready to fly home?” “Yes, Aunt Cloudy” she replied, obediently doing as she was told. Thunderlane watched closely, remembering how he had seen her fall from the sky earlier and was pleasantly surprised to see she looked none the worse for wear. “Great kid” he commented admiringly, looking up to Cloud Kicker whose cheeks flushed brightly at the compliment, “And you’re really nice too.” “You know you’re my hero, right” she said, helping him up onto his hooves, “Nothing’s going to change that.” “Thank you” he replied, a little abashed, “Would it cut too much into your schedule if you came with me to the infirmary?” “Canterlot?” she asked. “No, Cloudsdale.” “I’ll be with you, but I don’t know how Princess is going to cope with the flight; I may have to drop her off first.” “OK” he said, “Ready?” “Princess” she cooed in an encouraging voice, “Shall we go now?” She nodded and they all moved out to the mouth of the cave where Cloud Kicker was first to open her wings and lift off into the clearing sky. “I’m coming Aunt Cloudy!” called the filly, her little wings flapping a lot faster than hers. Thunderlane winced as he pushed up through his hind legs to get into the air, thankful that neither of them could hear the curse under his breath. They grouped up and followed the path of the storm, safely behind and out of its reach. Princess soon started showing off by flying loops around the grown-ups, prompting them both to agree that she really should consider going to Junior Speedsters Flight Camp and try her luck at becoming a Wonderbolt. She heard this, of course, and started showing off all the more. By the time they approached Cloudsdale, the sun had retreated below the horizon, leaving behind an aura of pinks, oranges and purples to act as a backdrop to the remaining clouds that had stayed to usher in the night. “You’ve really got to get that leg seen to” Cloud Kicker reminded him as they began to make out the different buildings, and could see that Thunderlane was not heading towards the infirmary. “No, no time” he replied, “They’ve probably organised search parties by now and I can’t make them search in the dark while I get seen to; some of them might get hurt.” “I didn’t see them showing such concern for you” she reflected bitterly. “The area should have been swept just before the storm arrived” he said, trying to puzzle out why Cloud Kicker and Princess Erroria hadn’t been spotted and escorted away sooner, ”And nopony was expecting me to head into the storm after all. Besides, once it had built up momentum, there was no way to stop it.” “If you say so, but I’m staying with you” she turned to smile at him, “For your own good, you know.”
3 Road to RecoveryThunderlane led his two new friends to the weather factory and touched down as close to the main entrance as he dared and tried to walk forward, but his hindleg was hurting far worse and he almost fell the instant he put weight on it. “Hey Thunderlane!” called Soarin, striding out of the large building, “Where you been, bro?” “Hiding in a cave while the storm went over” he replied, “I guess they’re sending out search parties if they’ve called in the Wonderbolts.” “Yeah, the first patrols went out over an hour ago” he confirmed, “We’d better go and tell them to call it off. Btw, what in Equestria happened to you?” “I would file a report myself” Thunderlane offered apologetically, “But I kinda injured my leg and the nurse here …” “She’s his marefriend!” piped up Princess Erroria. “Oh, I see” said Soarin with a knowing smile, “Definitely want to hear this one.” “They’re going to be married …” continued the filly. “That’s quite enough, young lady” her aunt chastised softly. “But I’m sure you will” she went on, turning to Soarin, ”I saw them kissing and everything …” “Princess Erroria!” Cloud Kicker cut in, “I’m sure this gentlecolt doesn’t need to know all the details.” Soarin turned to Thunderlane and whispered admiringly, ”Fast work dude, she’s really cute too.” “I’ve also got very good hearing” said Cloud Kicker with a mischievous smile, at which Soarin blushed deeply. “They’re gonna get married, married, married ...” sang the filly cheerfully. “OK, bro. Look, I’ll go sort everything out for you. Just get yourself down to the infirmary and get that leg seen to.” “Thanks” he replied, “But just one last thing, who was flying the sweep over the weather factory’s test range today?” “Er, dunno. Why?” “Well whoever it was didn’t see that these two lovely ladies were in harm’s way. That’s why I had to go help them out. It could have ended a whole lot worse.” “Standby one, I’ll go find out.” Soarin went back into the building and spoke to a receptionist, returning shortly with a clipboard. He flipped through the pages with a forehoof, checking out the rosters for the day. “Ah, here we are” he announced, “Hoops, Dumb-bell and Score. Know these guys?” “I could have guessed” he sighed. “So, these three should have found us?” queried Cloud Kicker. “Provided you weren’t hiding under a rock, then yes. “So, if we were having a picnic on a large red and white check groundsheet, then they would have seen us?” “No doubt” said Thunderlane, “I’ll take it up right now.” “Oh no you won’t; you’ve got to get that leg fixed” insisted Cloud Kicker, bristling with determination, ”Leave it to me. Princess, take Thunderlane to the infirmary and make sure he sees a doctor. I’ll see both of you once I’ve done here.” Soarin moved out of the way, not daring to cross this mare who was clearly not in a mood to be stopped. “Can I help you get to the infirmary, Mr Thunderlane?” asked the filly looking up at him with big bright eyes. Soarin looked at him with a wry smile on his face, ”Bro, duty calls. I don’t think you need to hang around here; looks to me like your marefriend can handle herself.” “OK, I know when I’m beaten” Thunderlane acquiesced, sharing a hoofbump before returning his attention to the expectant filly, ”Come on Princess, let’s go.” *** Thunderlane lay on a hospital bed, his lower leg and ankle bandaged. He and Princess Erroria had been telling each other stories about brave pegasi in full armour rescuing fair damsels from mildly inconsiderate dragons, and if he was being honest, he would have to say he was rather enjoying it. A gentle knocking echoed across the room, stopping them in mid story as the door opened and a lavender blue mare stepped in. “How are you?” she asked sympathetically. “He’s doing really well” Princess chimed in immediately, “He’s taken his medicine and he’s resting up like the doctor told him to.” “I was actually asking him” said Cloud Kicker, correcting her niece with a loving smile. “Well, I’m practically a doctor” she replied, “I have made sure he does everything he’s supposed to, although I have to say he didn’t like the ice very much.” “I’m sure she’ll make a great doctor one day, if that’s what she wants to do” said Thunderlane supportively, “How did it go with you?” “Ah, yes” she replied, stiffening, “Your three friends decided that they didn’t want to miss the start of the buckball final today, so didn’t actually check the area, but reported back they had done it anyway.” “They what …?” he gasped in disbelief. “Well, it’s the last time they’re going to do that, or anything else in the weather factory for that matter; they’ve been fired.” “Best thing too” he agreed, “But you didn’t have to get involved, I would have done it as soon as I got back.” “Oh, and I’ve got a copy of the complaint I raised against them; I thought you might like it” she added, before dropping the sternness of her demeanour and adding seductively, “It’s got my name and address on it, just in case you wanted to call round.” Just then, the door moved again, and a grey colt looked round into the room. “Hey, Rumble” his brother greeted warmly, “Glad you could make it! This is Cloud Kicker and Princess Erroria, they’re very good friends of mine.” The filly made a beeline to the colt and started chatting happily about their adventures, giving the two grown-ups a brief diversion. “You know” whispered Cloud Kicker, “This is the first time we’ve had any ‘us’ time, if you know what I mean.” With that, she reached a forehoof over and gently stopped him from turning away as she planted a heartfelt kiss on his lips, and time stopped as they immersed themselves in the first of many intimate moments of closeness that were to come. “You see” giggled Princess Erroria excitedly, “I told you they were going to get married!”
