Canterlot Academy’s First Assignments
Author's Note
Star Ponies as it should have been
Dor the new comer's there was a previous version of this story and it was a total disaster this is a similar story but with anthro. 
Canterlot Academy’s First Assignments
Canterlot Academy
Twilight Sparkle awoke one morning and she could smell cooking downstairs she smiled.and got of bed went to the bathroom and did her morning routine. After getting dressed she went downstairs and saw her mother Twilight Velvet making breakfast.
Velvet said “morning Twilight.”
Twilight yawned “morning where’s dad?”
Ve;vet said “he went to work early.”
After breakfast Velvet handed Twilight a small box wrapped in paper and said with a smile “happy birthday Twilight.”
Twilight smiled and tore off the wrapping paper and opened the box her eyes lit up “wow the complete series of Celestial Storm the premier authority on magic.”
Velvet said “ I’m glad you like it, now that you’ve reached the age of common have you decided on a carrier?”
Twilight nodded “yes I want to enroll in the Equestrian Academy.”
Velvet asked “are you sure that’s a good idea?”
Twilight said “the Confederation has the best magic schools in the galaxy.”
Velvet siged the asked in a joking tone “any chance I could talk you out of this?”
Twilight shook her head and said with a smile “not a chance.”
A few days later Twilight stood outside of a building looking up it read Canterlot Academy. she smiled on the grounds she saw ponies marching others jogging.
She went up to the desk the pony behind the desk said “can I help you?”
Twilight said “I would like to reroll in the Canterlot Academy.”
The receptionist handed her a pad and said “fill this out.”
After Twilight filled out the information on the pad and returned it to the receptionist.
The receptionist looked at the pad and said “welcome to the Canterlot Academy come back tomorrow at 7am” she went home and told her parents she applied to the Canterlot Academy.
The next day Twilight went to the academy the receptionist handed her a pad that read welcome to Canterlot Academy testing will begin at 10:30 hrs. to determine academic aptitude. Twilight looked at the clock on the wall it read 10:15. She decided to look around when something in the center of the room caught her attention. It was a projector projecting a 3-D image of a ship it rotated 360⁰ it looked like a light blue Pegasus. Its front legs were bent slightly at the knees rear legs were outstretched. The neck was at a 45ᴼ angle as the head came into view she could see 2 ovoid windows where the eyes were be. The wings were folded at the sides against the body there was a yellow horseshoe on the flank. Twilight recognized it as the symbol for the Equestrian Confederation. Around the neck was what looked like a necklace with a large multi ring jewel in the center of the chest. The registry designation ran down each side of the neck E.N.C.-2401 on the shoulders was the name E.N.S. Wonderbolt.
As she stood there admiring the ship a yellow Pegasus with a pink mane and tail came alongside her. The purple unicorn turned smiled and extended a hand “hello my name is Twilight Sparkle.”
The yellow Pegasus smiled “F-Fluttershy” the 2 shook hands Fluttershy smiled “are you here to join the Confederation?”
Twilight nodded “it’s something I’ve wanted to do ever since I was young”
Fluttershy said “me too the Confederation has the best veterinary schools.”
As they were talking a sky blue Pegasus with a rainbow mane and tail jogged over “Fluttershy is that you?”
Fluttershy turned and stammered “R-Rainbow Dash?”
The 2 shared a hug Rainbow Dash said “I was hoping to see you here.”
Fluttershy smiled then turned to the unicorn “Rainbow Dash meet Twilight Sparkle she is enrolling in the Canterlot Academy too.”
Rainbow Dash shook Twilights hand “nice to meet you.”
“Nice to meet you” Twilight replied as they shook hands.
Rainbow Dash said looking at the hologram “I saw that ship in the space dock."
Twilight asked "you saw it?"
Rainbow nodded "it’s still being built.”
Twilight said “I hear it will be ready for service in a few months.”
Rainbow smiled “it would be awesome to command a ship like that.”
Twilight nodded “it would.”
Rainbow said “I have to go see you around Twilight, Fluttershy.”
Fluttershy and Twilight said “bye Rainbow.”
Twilight said “I hope to see you again.”
Later that day a white unicorn with a purple mane and tail applied to the academy and walked up to the Wonderbolt hologram. As she watched it rotate a tan Earth pony with a blonde mane and tail walked up beside her and said with an accent “that’s ah mighty fine-looking ship.”
The unicorn turned her head “yes it is.”
The Earth pony extended a hand “Applejack.”
The unicorn shook the Earth pony’s hand “Rarity.”
Just then a pink Earth pony with a pink mane and tail joined them “oooh are you joining the academy too? As she bounced around “I’m Pinkie Pie I hope we will be working together.”
Applejack and Rarity introduced themselves as they shook hands a voice came over the intercoms “attention applicants report to the testing rooms.”
The ponies went to the testing rooms to take their entrance exams all that passed were given a small bag with a cadet uniform and a notepad and a map of the academy. Each pad had a note that read if you are reading this message congratulations cadet. The Equestrian Confederation academy is the first step to a career in the Confederation. Your first assignment will begin tomorrow at 06:00 hrs. Each pony race will be assigned a training section Earth ponies strength, Pegasi flight, unicorns magic.
Three months later after basic training Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Fluttershy and Twilight Sparkle were sitting at a table in the mess hall. They just finished eating breakfast and were talking when a voice came over the intercoms. “Attention cadets report to the courtyards for your assignments.”
The 6 cadets all departed hoping to see each other again soon.
Rainbow Dash
Rainbow Dash went to a courtyard she stood shoulder to shoulder with the other cadets a door opened and a golden mare with an orange mane and tail wearing light sunglasses entered. She approached the cadets and paced back and forth in front of them. “Greetings cadets my name is Capitan Spitfire. The Canterlot Confederation will be awarding six achievements to those who can excel at one or more of these attributes Kindness, laughter, generosity, honesty, loyalty and magic. The pony who excels in that attribute will receive not only the achievement but a commission on the E.N.S Wonderbolt. Now as a part of your training assignment you will serve on the E.N.S Everfree. We will be traveling to the Bornarian sector meet me at launch pad C at 14:30 hours dismissed.”
Later that afternoon Rainbow looked at a clock on the wall it read 14:25 she went to the launch pad and saw the Everfree it was a pony shaped ship. The hull was green in color the mane and tail was a darker green. There was a single evergreen tree on the flank in the mid-section. The ship sat next to what looked like a walkway that lead to other locations in the center was a glass lift at the base of the lift stood Spitfire. As Rainbow approached Spitfire said “welcome to the E.N.S Everfree, name?”
Rainbow said “Rainbow Dash.”
Spitfire nodded and wrote the name on her clipboard “you’re the pilot.”
Rainbow saluted and stepped on the lift and pressed the button the lift asended once it reached the top Rainbow looked around the view was fantastic. she could see cadets training and others walking around she smiled and entered the ship. As she entered she walked down a hallway and came to a set of doors as she approached the doors opened revealing a lift. She stepped inside as she did a soft voice said "destination?" Rainbow said “bridge” the lift activated and after a moment the lift stopped and the doors opened and she entered the bridge. There were 2 consoles with chairs behind them in front of the consoles was a large screen it appeared to be embedded in the wall.
As Rainbow looked around the bridge she noticed there wa single chair behind them as she walked around Spitfire’s voice came over the intercom “attention cadet’s report to the briefing room at once.” Rainbow left the bridge and walked the briefing room Spitfire stood in the room with 3 other ponies. As Rainbow entered Spitfire said “when the reaming 2 arrive we will begin.”
When the reaming ponies arrived Spitfire said “now that all are here I want each cadet to introduce themselves.”
A teal mare with a blue green mane and tail stepped forward “Crescent Firefly.”
Next was yellow mare with purple mane and tail “Sweet Cherry.”
A brown stallion with a red mane and tail stepped forward “Forest Walnut.”
A jade mare with a platinum mane and tail stepped forward “Cherry Crush.”
A grey stallion with a black mane and tail stepped forward “Sunset Meadow.”
A orange mare with a jade mane and tail stepped forwards “Emerald Gypsy.”
Rainbow stepped forward “Rainbow Dash.”
Spitfire smiled “now that introductions are out of the way here is our mission we will be traveling to the planet Asag in the Bornarian sector. Once there we will acquire 204 kilograms of cobalt, manganese and helium 3.”
Emerald asked “the Bornarian sector isn’t that region known for griffin raiders?”
Spitfire nodded “yes our mission is to avoid them if we encounter any we will defend ourselves any questions?” No pony said anything “report to your stations, dismissed.”
Rainbow and the others went to the bridge and took their stations Emerald Gypsy took navigation, Sunset Meadow tactical, Cherry Crush systems operations, Forest Walnut engineering, Crescent Firefly science station and Rainbow Dash helm.
Once every pony was seated Spitfire said “Dash set course for the Bornarian sector velocity 6.”
.
Dash said “course laid in”
Spitfire said “initiate.”
Emerald Gypsy said “engines engaged we will arrive in 2 hours.”
Spitfire said “good work when we arrive keep an eye out for griffin raiders.”
Emerald Gypsy replied “eyie Capitan.”
Two hours later they arrived in the Bornarian sector as they approached the planet Asag when Crescent Firefly said “Capitan there is an anomaly 72⁰ to port.”
Spitfire said “can you identify it?”
Crescent said “it’s emitting a sub harmonic signal making it difficult to identify.”
Spitfire said “tactical can you get a lock?”
Sunset said “negative.”
Spitfire said “on viewer.”
The screen activated and a star shaped object was seen floating nearby it appeared to be shimmering as light from the planets star reflected off it. The object suddenly began spinning rapidly and moved towards the ship.
Spitfire shouted “A DAVARIAN ELECTROSTATIC PULSE MINE RAISE SHEILDS EVASIVE MANUVERS!”
But it was too late the mine struck the aft section of the ship the explosion shook the ship and caused it to list 32⁰ tossing the crew around. Consoles exploded. The lights went out followed by the emergency lights.
Once every pony gained their footing Spitfire said “report.”
Forest said “main power is offline emergency power compensating we have partial communications, scanners and life support. Weapons shields and engines are offline.” He paused “we have a hull breach in section 15 delta decks 12-21 are exposed to space emergency bulkheads are in place.”
Spitfire asked “can we communicate with any pony in that section?”
Forest shook his head “no there is no response.”
Spitfire placed her hands on her face and slowly pulled them down and muttered “this was supposed to be a routine mission.” Turning to Cherry Crush she said “Cherry go to section 15 delta and conduct a damage assessment.”
As Cherry Crush left the bridge Emerald Gypsy said “Capitan I’m detecting a griffin raider approaching.”
Forest said “we are receiving a message from the griffin ship.”
Spitfire said “on viewer.”
The screen activated and a scruffy male griffin with a sky blue crest and aqua blue feathers smiled wickedly and said “greetings ponies I am Ningal Capitan of the griffin ship Aurum.”
Spitfire said “I am Spitfire Capitan of the Everfree why did you mine this system?”
Ningal asked “what do you mean?”
Spitfire said “we were just hit by a darvarian electrostatic pulse mine.”
Ningal gave a look of confusion “we did not mine the system” he smile “but since you struck a mine it seems we’ve arrived just in time.”
Spitfire asked “in time for what?”
Ningal shrugged “your ship is crippled I am willing to take your crew on to my ship as my guests and I will tow your ship to Confederation territory.”
Spitfire asked “and if I say no?”
Ningal shrugged “then you will be stuck here for a very long time.”
Spitfire pursed her lips “give me a moment to speak to my crew.”
Ningal nodded.
The screen went blank Rainbow turned in her chair to face Spitfire “I don’t like it I think it’s a trap griffin raiders are not known for their charity.”
Just then Cherry Crush returned “Capitan I have bad news the entire engineering section is destroyed the main computer was severely damaged by the electrostatic pulse. All the core memory was wiped out and the connecting conduits are severed.”
Spitfire asked “what about the crew?”
Cherry shook her head “I don’t know I did not see any pony there just the bulkheads” she lowered her head “they were probably sucked out into space.”
Spitfire groaned “Admiral Luna is going to have my hide for this.”
Spitfire faced the crew and said “I don’t trust the griffins and I’m not going to take Ningal up on his offer.”
The bridge crew looked at each other Cherry Crush said “I will take his offer.”
Forest said “me too.”
Sunset Meadow “asked what if he breaks his agreement?”
Emerald Gypsy said “it’s better than staying here and waiting for the emergency power to run out and for us to freeze to death.”
Spitfire said “I am not going to surrender to them they will not take us home they will probably send us to some moon or planet to mine gold.”
Emerald Gypsy asked “are you sure you won’t change your mind?”
Spitfire shook her head “no.”
Emerald Gypsy “then it’s time for new leadership” as she pointed a weapon at Spitfire we are not going to let you leave us here to die.”
Spitfire’s eyes went wide as she raised her hands “where did you get that?”
Emerald Gypsy said “that’s not important what is important is I'm taking command of this ship.”
Spitfire asked “why?”
Emerald Gypsy said “after what happened on the Nagma when you were in the Corus system.”
Spitfire said “what are you talking about?”
Emerald Gypsy said “don’t play dumb that ship was destroyed and you were the sole survivor.”
Spitfire said “yes we were attacked by a changeling Dodek class cruiser.”
Emerald Gypsy said “I heard when they examined the wreckage they found evidence of sabotage it seems odd that you were the only one to escape.”
Spitfire “so you’re willing to commit mutiny and toss your career out the nearest air lock on the basis of a conspiracy theory? I’m telling you Ningal is not going to keep his agreement.”
Emerald Gypsy said “he will he said so, now who is with me?”
Spitfire said "I want no part of this."
Emerald Gypsy said "don’t worry you won’t I'm giving you 5 minutes to leave."
Spitfire just shook her head “fine I’ll go” as she walked to the lift doors. She turned and faced the crew “any pony who wishes to join me meet me at escape pod J-4” she shook her head again and left the bridge.
Rainbow turned to the others “you realize this is a trap don’t you?”
Sunset said “Ningal promised us safe passage.”
Rainbow looked at the lift doors then at the crew she stood up and said “count me out” and left the bridge.”
As Spitfire opened the airlock and prepared to enter the pod a voice called out “WAIT!” she turned around and saw rainbow Dash running towards the airlock.
Rainbow said “I’m coming with you.”
Spitfire nodded and the 2 entered the escape pod as the pod launched they could see the ship there were ions leaking out from the aft section. The Everfree got smaller as they got further away soon the griffin ship backed up and fired a single shot. A bright green ball traveled towards the Everfree the energy projectile struck the damaged section. As soon as it impacted the ship exploded in a huge ball of energy producing a shock wave that traveled towards the escape pod.
Spitfire shouted “brace yourself!”
The wave crashed into the pod causing it to tumble Spitfire struggled to regain control of the pod. Once she regained control they watched the griffin ship make a hyper jump. Spitfire activated a distress beacon.
Rainbow just lowered her head.
Spitfire said “looks like you were right Dash” as she pressed a few buttons on the console and set course for Confederation territory “a ship will arrive to pick us up in a fw hours.”
Dash asked “what about the others? We can’t just leave them.”
Spitfire said “we can’t do anything right now we have to inform Admiral Celestia.”
Dash reluctantly nodded.
Spitfire smiled and placed a hand on Rainbows shoulder “if it makes you feel any better I’m going to recommend you for the achievement of loyalty.”
Dash smiled widely.
After they returned to Confederation territory they met with Admiral Celestia, Admiral Luna and Vice Admiral Cadence for debriefing.
Spitfire told them what happened and Rainbow confirmed the details.
Celestia shook her head and stood up the others watched as she walked over to a window and looked out for a moment then returned to her seat and placed her fingers together. She said softly “there has not been a mutiny onboard a Confederation ship in over 200 years.”
Spitfire said “admiral, based on her actions on the Everfree I would like to recommend Rainbow Dash for the achievement of loyalty.”
Celestia nodded “I agree what do you think Luna, Cadence?”
Both Luna and Cadence nodded.
Luna said “yes I recommend Rainbow Dash for the achievement.”
Cadence said “I also recommend Rainbow Dash for the achievement.”
Admiral Celestia smiled as she stood up walked over to the wall activated her horn and magically unlocked a safe she opened it reached in and pulled out a small box. She returned to the table and opened the box inside were 6 gemstones red, blue, green, amber, pink and violet. She levitated the red gem and placed it into Rainbows hands the gem glowed then flashed in a bright but not blinding red light. After the light faded Rainbow looked at the gem and saw it had transformed into a cloud with a lightning bolt the same as her cutie mark.
Celestia smiled “wear it with pride.”
Spitfire said “congratulations Dash.”
Rainbow Dash shook the 3 admiral’s hands each offered congratulations Rainbow said “thank you” after looking at her achievement again she lifted her head and asked "what about the crew who went with the griffins?”
Celestia said “I will make some inquiries hopefully we can bring them back safely.”
Rainbow’s eyes lowered “I hope they can be found.”
Spitfire placed a hand on Rainbows shoulder “come on Dash I’ll buy you a cider.”
Applejack
Applejack went to a courtyard and stood alongside the other cadets when a lavender stallion with a golden main and tail addressed the recruits he said as he paced back and forth. “Greetings cadets my name is Cmdr. Golden Amethyst.” The Canterlot Confederation will be awarding six achievements to those who can excel at one or more of these attributes Kindness, laughter, generosity, honesty, loyalty and magic. The pony who excels in that field will receive not only the achievement but a commission on the E.N.S. Wonderbolt. Now for our mission we will be traveling to the planet Eirene in the Hari sector and oversee negotiations between the Centaurs and the Minotaur’s they are on the verge of a war. A conflict between them would not only decimate their respective planets but also spread to other systems and disrupt various trade routes and you will be there. As observers during the negotiations meet me at launch pad D at 14:30 hrs. dismissed.”
Applejack went to launch pad D and saw Cmdr. Amethyst standing there with a clipboard “welcome to the E.N.S Moonraker name?”
Applejack said “Applejack.”
Cmdr. Amethyst looked at his clipboard and wrote something “you’re at tactical.”
Applejack saluted and boarded the ship as she entered she went down a hall and came to a lift as she entered said “bridge.” The lift activated and the after a moment the doors opened and she entered the bridge. She saw there were 3 chairs in the center in front of them were 2 consoles with chairs in front of them on the wall was a giant embedded screen. She stepped up a ramp on the right side and stood above the chairs in the center. She looked at the tactical console and it looked simple enough target lock, torpedoes, energy weapons and communications.
Soon Cmdr. Amethyst’s voice came over the intercom “attention cadet’s report to the briefing room.” Applejack left the bridge and walked along the corridors when she got lost the computer gave directions and she found her way to the room. As she entered Cmdr. Amethyst was sitting at a table with 5 other ponies. As Applejack entered she sat down at the table once seated Cmdr. Amethyst said “now that every pony is here we should start with introductions" he started "I am Cmdr. Golden Amethyst.”
He pointed to a mare to his right a pony with a yellow coat purple mane and tail “Ember Almond.”
Next to her was a mare with a blue coat and a teal mane and tail “Blue Twinkle.”
To the left was a stallion with a lime green coat light red mane and tail “Crescent Lightning.”
Applejack said “Applejack”
The mare next to her with a teal coat and pink mane and tail said “Ruby Dreamer.”
Cmdr. Amethyst smiled “now that introductions are out of the way we can begin. What I am telling you is classified code shadow by admirals Celestia and Luna. As I said before the Equestrian Confederation is negotiating a treaty between the Centaurs and the Minotaur’s. What is not known is you all will be sitting in on the negotiation. You will be evaluated on your observational and negotiation skills. Hopefully we can persuade them not only to reach a peace agreement but also join the Confederation.” He smiled slightly “being a Confederation officer is not all exploration and combat sometimes you will need to negotiate your way out of tight situations, any questions?” No pony said anything he stood up “every pony take your stations, dismissed.”
Applejack took tactical.
Ember Almond took the helm.
Ruby Dreamer took navigation.
Crescent Lightning took engineering.
Blue Twilight took science.
Cmdr. Amethyst said “helm set course for the Hari system velocity 4.7”
Blue Twilight said “course and speed set.”
Amethyst said “initiate.”
Ruby said “we will arrive in 3 hours”
A few hours later Ruby Dreamer said “we are entering the Hari system.”
Cmdr. Amethyst asked “how long till we reach the planet Eirene?”
Ruby said “24 minutes.”
Cmdr. Amethyst said “tactical scan the planet.”
Applejack said “no threats detected.”
Cmdr. Amethyst said “Ruby Dreamer scan for a Confederation signal beacon.”
Ruby pressed a few buttons then said “I found it its coming from a building on the southern continent.”
Cmdr. Amethyst said “set orbit over that location” he stood up “ok cadets this is where the fun begins meet me in the transportation room and we will go down to the surface.”
When the crew arrived on the surface they entered the building and walked down a hallway they soon came to a large conference hall inside was a 2.5 meter rectangular table. At each end of the table sat one Minotaur at the other end sat a Centaur the 6 ponies sat at the table.
Cmdr. Amethyst said “allow me to introduce the negotiating representatives” pointing to the Minotaur “Belkeck” then to the Centaur “Vormax.”
As the negotiations began Cmdr. Amethyst said “every pony feel free to add any thoughts you may have" as the negotiations progressed they got heated at times. The cadets mostly agreed with what was being said but Applejack looked between the delegates and noticed something about the way they were arguing. Having witnessed many arguments over the years between family and friends she looked between them and noticed something that didn’t seem right. Something about the way they were arguing and the way they quickly calmed down. She drew on her negotiation experience sure they were petty squabbles but all arguments had a certain way of progressing. That process was not present here the other cadets did not appear to notice they seemed to be caught up in the moment.
Vormax noticed Applejack was unusually quiet and asked “Applejack do you wish to add anything to the negotiations?”
Applejack looked around nervously then said “I would like to say something about this meeting”
Cmdr. Amethyst said “of course is that is why your here.”
Applejack said as she tapped her middle and index fingers on the table “what I’m goanna say is the honest truth, this meeting is ah fake.
Vormax and Belkeck looked at each other and Belkeck asked “what makes you say that?”
Applejack smirked “I can tell by the way yall are talking we’ve been here over an hour and yall have not resorted tah insults and name callin.”
The other cadets looked at her with looks of astonishment Cmdr. Amethyst just sat back and folded his arms with a sly smile.
Belkeck and Vormax looked at each other and nodded once.
Belkeck said with a slight smirk “congratulations Applejack you passed the test.”
Applejack asked “test? What test?”
Cmdr. Amethyst said “this was a test for an achievement of harmony.
The other cadets looked at each other in confusion.
Belkeck and Vormax said “tell your leaders we will be submitting enrolment for membership into the Confederation.”
After they returned to Confederation territory they met with Admiral Celestia, Admiral Luna and Vice Admiral Cadence for debriefing.
Cmdr. Amethyst said “the negotiation test has been completed and Applejack was the only one who saw through the ruse and honestly pointed it out. Also they are going to submit enrolment into the Confederation. Therefor I would like to recommend Applejack for the achievement of honesty.”
Celestia nodded I agree what do you think Luna, Cadence?”
Both Luna and Cadence nodded.
Luna said “yes I recommend Applejack for the achievement.”
Cadence said “I also recommend Applejack for the achievement.”
Admiral Celestia smiled and she stood up walked over to the wall activated her horn and magically unlocked the safe she reached in and pulled out a small box. She then returned to the table and opened the box inside were 5 gemstones blue, green, amber, purple and lavender. She levitated the amber gem and placed it into Applejack’s hands the gem glowed then flashed with a yellow light. The light was bright but not blinding after the light faded Applejack looked at the gem and saw it had transformed into an apple the same as her cutie mark.
Cmdr. Amethyst said as he shook her hand “congratulations.”
Admiral Celestia said “wear it with pride”
Applejack said “ah will.”
Fluttershy
Fluttershy went to a courtyard and stood alongside the other cadets when a mare with a cream coat and a red mane and tail. She paced back and forth as she addressed the recruits “I am Capitan Lotus Glimmer. The Canterlot Confederation will be awarding six achievements to those who can excel at one or more of these attributes Kindness, laughter, generosity, honesty, loyalty and magic. The pony who excels in that field will receive not only the achievement but a commission on the E.N.S. Wonderbolt. We will be traveling to a Confederation colony on the planet Bahlam and provide relief efforts any questions?” No pony said anything Lotus said “meet me at launch pad H at 14:30 hrs. dismissed.”
Fluttershy went to the launch pad she saw Lotus Glimmer standing near the ship holding a clipboard “welcome to the E.N.S Nimbus name?”
Fluttershy said “F-Fluttershy.”
Lotus Glimmer wrote her name on the clipboard “you’re the navigator.”
Fluttershy boarded the ship as she entered went down a hall to a lift and said “bridge” the lift activated and after a moment the doors opened and she entered the bridge. As she entered she saw 2 chairs in the center in front of them were the 2 consoles with chairs in front of them was a giant screen embedded into the wall.
She sat down at the navigation console and examined the buttons it looked simple enough.
Just then Lotus Glimmer and the other cadets entered the bridge Fluttershy stood from her chair.
Lotus Glimmer said “now that we are all here I want you all to introduce yourselves.”
A mare to her right stepped forward she had a light pink coat and a white mane and tail “Snow Muffin.”
As Snow Muffin stepped back a white stallion with a light blue mane and tail stepped forward “Fizzy Pepper.”
Another stallion with a tan coat brown mane and tail stepped up his mane was styled shaved on both sides and flat on top Stormy Showers.”
As he stepped back a mare stepped forwards she had an orange coat with a red mane and tail “Candy Ribbons.”
Fluttershy was last she could feel the eyes of the others she said “F-Flittershy.”
Lotus Glimmer said a she sat in her seat “every pony take your stations.”
Fizzy Pepper took helm, Stormy Showers took tactical, Candy Ribbons science station, Snow Muffin took engineering and Fluttershy took navigation.
Lotus Glimmer said “Fizzy Pepper set course for Bahlam velocity 6.1.”
Fizzy Pepper said “course and speed laid in.”
Lotus said “initiate.”
Fluttershy said “we should arrive at Bahlam in 2.4 hours.”
The ship was traveling along its course and speed when Stormy Showers said “Capitan I’m detecting something 34⁰ off the starboard side.”
Lotus asked “can you identify it?”
Stormy Showers said “I don’t know I can’t get an accurate reading.”
Lotus said “on viewer.”
The screen activated and all that could be seen was a strange blur Stormy Showers said “I think its-.”
Suddenly a green ball of plasma came from the distortion and struck the ship causing it to tilt 27⁰ to port and the lights to flicker.
Lotus said “report!”
Snow Muffin said “whatever hit us took out the engines and we’ve lost navigation.”
Candy Ribbons said “Capitan I’ve identified the ship it’s a changeling battlecruiser.”
Stormy Showers said “Capitan we have weapons online.”
Lotus shouted “FIRE!”
The Nimbus fired its energy and projectile weapons hitting the battlecruiser.
The battlecruiser returned fire striking the Nimbus causing consoles to explode in showers of sparks.
Snow Muffin said “helm is offline and were approaching a planet and the changeling battlecruiser is still on our tail.”
Lotus said “engage emergency thrusters.”
Stormy Showers said “not enough to escape the planets gravity.”
As the ship entered the atmosphere Lotus said “brace for impact!”
Another explosion hit the ship and the lights flickered again as the ship began to fall further into the planet’s atmosphere Fluttershy squeaked and covered her eyes “I can’t watch.”
The ship passed through a thick cloud cover as lightning flashed all around them and thunder boomed so loud the ship shook. The ship soon broke through the clouds and trees came into view the ship crashed into the trees breaking some and uprooting others. As the ship impacted with the ground it skidded several meters breaking and uprooting more trees before coming to a stop.
Lotus asked “is every pony alright?”
The crew staggered to their feet and each one said they were fine.”
Lotus said “scan the atmosphere I want to know if this planet is habitable.”
Fluttershy pressed a few buttons and said “yes the atmosphere is 30% oxygen the temperature is 31.2⁰ C.”
Lotus said “Snow muffin you and Stormy Showers go outside and do a damage assessment.”
The 2 saluted and left the bridge.
Lotus said “Fizzy Pepper send out a distress signal.”
Fizzy Pepper said “the communications relay is not operational it was damaged in the crash.”
As Snow muffin and Stormy Showers opened an emergency escape hatch and stepped outside they were hit with high humidity and gasped from the shock of the sudden change of temperature. The interior of the ship was 25⁰ C after recovering from the initial shock they looked around. They were in what looked like a tropical forest a long path of treeless soil lay behind the ship.
Snow Muffin asked “how long do you think it is?”
Stormy Showers said “looks to be about 762 meters.”
Snow Muffin said “I would say about 975 meters.”
Suddenly a soft humming sound broke them out of their conversation and they looked up.
Snow Muffin noticed something moving in the clouds overhead she pointed to the sky and said “the changeling battlecruiser they appear to be looking for us.”
Stormy Showers saw the enormous ship in the clouds as lightning flashed and thunder clapped when suddenly a lightning bolt struck the aft section of the ship causing a huge explosion. They watched as a huge fireball erupted from the damaged section of the ship. Then a larger explosion consumed the entire ship they watched as fragments fell to the ground. Stormy and Snow looked at each other and resumed inspecting the damage to the ship. They discovered the power core was severely damaged.
They returned to Lotus and made their report Lotus asked “how long until the power core fails?”
Snow Muffin said “I would say a few days maybe a week.”
Lotus said “I’m glad we don’t have to worry about the changelings but were still stuck here” she motioned for the crew to follow and went to the captain’s room. She went to a picture on the wall and pulled the picture to one side revealing a safe she pressed a few buttons on the door the lock clicked and she opened it. Inside was a box she removed the box then placed it on the desk then opened the box and inside were field rations. As she passed out the rations she said “these will only last a few days since I do not know how long it will take to get the communication relay operational we will need food, fire and water we can use the ship as a shelter. Snow Muffin you and Candy Ribbons forage for food, Stormy Showers you and Fluttershy see it you can find fresh water and firewood. Fizzy Pepper and I will stay behind and try to get the communications relay online and send out a distress signal” the ponies saluted and went out to complete their tasks.
When the others returned Lotus said “I have good news and bad news the good news is we got the communication relay operational and sent out a distress signal. The bad news is the locator beacon was damaged. The Confederation is sending rescue but they have a general idea of where we are but not an exact location so we will be stuck here for a while.”
Candy Ribbons asked “so we are stuck here for how long?”
Lotus sighed and lowered her head “since the Confederation only has our general location about 6 weeks and our field rations will last for 4 days” she turned to the crew what did you find?”
Snow Muffin and Candy Ribbons said “we found some grasses, mosses and berries.”
Stormy Showers and Fluttershy said we found a stream 162 meters to the east of here as they placed the wood they collected into a pile and started a fire.
The next day Fluttershy informed the others she was going out to forage for more food and collect more water and took the empty water containers to the stream. When she arrived she dipped her hand in the water and took a drink she could hear the sounds of many strange animals. As she filled the containers she wondered what they would look like. Her mind conjured images of all different kinds of creatures when she saw something moving around a nearby tree she thought it was an animal. She nervously called out “h-hello” no response she heard a twig crack her ears perked up. Looking in the direction she heard the sound she could see something moving. She said nervously “I-I know your there I can hear you.” A dark figure emerged from behind a tree it was black with folded insectoid wings a small horn and teal eyes.
Fluttershy gasped and took a step back “a changeling!”
The changeling stepped forwards tripped on a root and fell to its hand and knees and looked up at Fluttershy with a sad look on its face.
Fluttershy asked “are you alright?”
The changeling moved into a sitting position placing its knees to its chest and placed its hands over its face and dragged them down slowly and looked at her with a sad expression. Shaking its head it spoke in an insectoid voice “no my ship was destroyed I am stranded on this planet and I am starving. If I don’t feed soon” it just shook its head and sighed and placed its head between its knees.
Fluttershy sat down in front of the changeling and smiled “w-would you like some food?”
The changeling tilted its head slightly to one side “my species does not consume food we are psychophageous we derive our energy from emotions.”
Fluttershy asked “what kind of emotions like anger?”
The changeling shook its head “no, we feed on emotions like love.”
Fluttershy said “I don’t have any love to offer but I can offer compassion.”
The changeling thought for a moment then said “kindness is a form of adoration it’s not as potent as love but if you are willing to offer it freely it would help.”
Fluttershy smiled nodded and closed her eyes and the changelings’ horn glowed as streams of energy flowed off of the pony and was absorbed by the changeling’s horn.
The changeling smiled “that helped.”
Fluttershy smiled “I’m glad I could help.”
The changeling asked “are you going to turn me over to your crew?”
Fluttershy thought for a moment “no they don’t have to know your here.”
The changeling smiled and nodded “I’m Androx.”
Fluttershy smiled “Fluttershy” as they shook hands.
The two talked for a while then Fluttershy said she had to get back to the others.
Androx asked “will you come back tomorrow?”
Fluttershy nodded “I’m wondering how often do you need to feed?”
Androx said “it depends on if whether we share or not if we do not share a few weeks it depends on the emotion but what you offer is not as strong as love so I’m not sure I would guess a day maybe two.”
Fluttershy nodded “I’ll come back tomorrow.”
The next day Fluttershy returned to the same location “hello Androx.”
Androx smiled “hello Fluttershy”
Fluttershy said “can I ask you something?”
Androx said “yes.”
Fluttershy seemed a little nervous “I’m um curious um are you male or female?”
Androx said “neither I’m a drone we are androgynous.”
Fluttershy just nodded.
Androx said “I’d like to ask you something.”
Fluttershy nodded.
Androx was quiet for a moment “are you going to be rescued?”
Fluttershy said “yes in about 6 weeks.”
Androx asked “what will become of me? As you know the Equestrian Confederation and the Changeling Empire are not on very good terms.”
Fluttershy thought for a moment then said “you could request asylum.”
Androx said “that’s a good idea.”
They continued meeting everyday for 2 weeks one day as they were talking when suddenly they heard a twig snap Fluttershy and the Changeling whipped their heads. Fluttershy’s eyes went wide when she saw Stormy Showers pointing a weapon at them.
, Stormy Showers said with a smirk “well, well, well it looks like we have a prisoner and a traitor in our midst.”
Fluttershy stood up and said “the changeling is stranded and alone on this planet and wishes to return with us to Confederation territory.”
, Stormy Showers said still pointing the weapon at both of them “come back to camp well discuss this with Capitan Lotus.”
The 3 went back to the camp Stormy Showers said “Capitan Lotus I found Fluttershy it seems she’s been making some new friends.”
Lotus said looked at Fluttershy and said “explain yourself cadet.”
Fluttershy lowered her head and explained how Androx was marooned on the planet and could not return to the Changeling home world.
Lotus asked “why can’t you return to Fornax?”
Androx said “the ship I on was destroyed and I am the sole survivor on my world we do everything as an assigned group we all complete it or none of us do. So I cannot return to Fornax Chrysalis does not tolerate failure.”
Lotus thought for a moment “very well we will take you to Confederation territory Admiral Celestia will decide your fate.” She turned to Fluttershy “according to Confederation regulations I must place you in custody pending a meeting with Admiral Celestia, Luna and Vice Admiral Cadence she turned to Fizzy Pepper “Fizzy escort Fluttershy and our guest to a holding cell.”
Fluttershy nodded then smiled at the Changeling who smiled back.
After the crew was rescued and returned to Confederation territory Fluttershy was in Admiral Celestia’s office she sat in a chair in an empty room and fidgeted nervously. She rubbed her arms as her mind raced as she wondered if her career was over before it even started. But at the same time she would do it again, she smiled softly at that thought.
She heard a door open and turned her head as Admiral Celestia, Admiral Luna and Vice admiral Cadence entered the room she looked up and watched as they came in and sat down.
Celestia spoke first “cadet Fluttershy according to Captain Lotus’s report you aided an enemy of the Confederation do you deny this?”
Fluttershy just looked at the table and softly said “n-no.”
Celestia smiled and placed a hand on her shoulder “we want to hear your story.”
Fluttershy said “before I begin I have to ask what happened to Androx?”
Luna said “the changeling is in a holding cell.”
Fluttershy said the changeling was injured and starving, I learned Changelings are a psychophagic species. They feed off of positive emotion such as love I had no love to offer so I offered kindness instead it’s not as potent as love but it did help.
Vice admiral Cadence smiled “if I were in your shoes I would have done the same thing.”
Fluttershy smiled “the changeling cannot return to Fornax” she explained the Changeling drones work in teams and it’s all or nothing and the Empire’s policy on failure.”
Admiral Celestia thought for a moment "very well I will allow the Changeling to stay but nopony can know its true form. When interacting with Confederation citizens it must maintain the form of a Confederation citizen.” She held up a finger for emphases “no duplications.”
Fluttershy smiled “thank you I would like to deliver the good news.”
Celestia nodded then said “Fluttershy based on Capitan Lotus's report and what you have told us here today you showed compassion to an enemy for that act of kindheartedness you have earned the achievement of kindness.” She stood up walked over to the wall activated her horn and magically unlocked the safe she reached in and pulled out a small box. She then returned to the table and opened the box inside were 4 gemstones blue, green, purple and lavender. She levitated the green gem and placed it into Fluttershy’s hands the gem glowed then flashed with a green light. The light was bright but not blinding after the light faded.
Fluttershy looked at the gem and saw it had transformed into a butterfly she smiled and said “it’s the same as my cutie mark”
As she shook hand with the other admirals who offered their congratulations Celestia said “wear it with pride.”
Pinkie Pie
Pinkie Pie went to a courtyard and stood alongside the other cadets when a stallion with a light grey coat and a black mane and tail with a hint of grey approached. He paced back and forth as he addressed the cadets. “ I am Capitan Comet Burst the Equestrian Confederation will be awarding six achievements to those who can excel at one or more of these attributes Kindness, laughter, generosity, honesty, loyalty and magic. The pony who excels in that field will receive not only the achievement but a commission on the E.N.S Wonderbolt. Now for our mission we will be traveling to the planet Bahlam to provide relief efforts to some Confederation colonists any questions?” No pony said anything Comet said “meet me at launch pad H at 14:30 hrs. dismissed.”
Pinkie went to the launch pad and saw Comet Burst standing near the ship holding a clipboard “welcome to the E.N.S Breezie name?”
Pinkie said “Pinkie Pie.”
Comet looked at his clipboard “you’re position is science officer.”
Pinkie said “science is not my best subject.”
Comet said don’t worry this is merely a training exercise and training in all fields is what makes us better.” He placed at hand on her shoulder “when I was a cadet I was placed at an engineering station that was my weak spot my strength is tactical.” He smiled “I did better than I thought I would and I know you’ll do fine.”
Pinkie saluted and boarded the ship she went to a lift and said “bridge” the lift activated and after a moment the doors opened and she entered the bridge. There were 3 chairs in the center. In front of them were 2 consoles with chairs in front of them was a giant screen embedded into the wall.
Comets voice came over the intercom “attention cadet’s report to the briefing room at once.”
Pinkie went to the briefing room and met 5 other ponies sitting at a table.
As Pinkie sat down Comet said “now that every pony is here let us introduce ourselves.”
Comet went first “I’m Comet Burst.”
A mare with a yellow coat with a purple mane and tail stood up “Cherry Eclipse.”
Next was a stallion with a green coat and a teal mane and tail “Emerald Firefly.”
After that was another stallion with a light blue coat yellow mane and tail “Crescent Star.”
Followed by a mare with a orange coat and a light red mane and tail “Rose Blossom.”
Pinkie said “I’m Pinkie Pie.”
Comet said “now that we all know each other here is our mission we are to deliver various supplies to the planet Pentar in the Egeria system.”
Cherry Eclipse scoffed “that’s it?”
Comet said “don’t take this assignment too lightly the planet is the 4th in a system of 7 the planet is surrounded by asteroids. He got up and activated a screen and showed an animation of the planet he explained “Pentar once had 3 moons Inuus, Sancus and Cardea. Then 87 years ago a massive asteroid struck Sancus” the crew watched as the animation showed an asteroid 1/3 the size of the moon slammed into the lunar body pushing it into Cardea. When the 2 bodies collided they shattered fragments slammed into Inuus causing massive craters pushing massive amounts of dust high above the surface the remaining debris encircled the planet. Comet continued “the moon Cardea’s core was rich in radium. Some pieces of the moons core fell to the planet below radium is a radioactive substance iut contaminated the biosphere. It will take them 30 years to remove it. In the meantime the Confederation has agreed to send supplies to them until they can decontaminate the biosphere. Navigating through this field is very difficult several ships have been severely damaged or destroyed. As he turned off the screen he said “since the debris field is so treacherous I will take the helm, any questions?”
Crescent Star asked “can we use the transportation device?”
Comet said “no the radium rich rocks scramble the signals rendering it useless any other questions?” No pony said anything he nodded “dismissed.”
After the briefing they went to the bridge Comet said “take your stations.”
Crescent Star went to navigation.
Cherry Eclipse went to helm.
Emerald Firefly went to tactical.
Rose Blossom went to the engineering station.
Pinkie went to the science station.
Comet said “helm set course for Pentar velocity 6.5.”
Cherry Eclipse said “course and speed set.”
Comet said “initiate.”
Once the engines were engaged Cherry said “we will arrive in the Egeria system in 6 hrs.”
As the ship entered the Egeria system Crescent Star said “we will be arriving at Pentar soon.”
The ship soon came to the planet Pentar Comet said “Crescent Star I’ll take the helm” Crescent nodded and stood up as Comet sat down. He pressed several buttons as the ship entered the asteroids the area near the equator was the thinnest region. He navigated through the flying boulders some were massive others were very small. The rocks tumbled some crashed into each other Comet navigated past several. Suddenly a loud bang rocked the ship causing the aft section to list 45⁰ and the crew was knocked off their feet others were thrown from their seats.”
Emerald Firefly said “Capitan a 10 meter asteroid struck our engines we’re venting plasma.”
Rose Blossom said “engineering reports a hull breech emergency bulkheads are in place.”
Just then another bang rocked the ship and the lights went out and the emergency lights came on.
Rose Blossom said “main power is off line auxiliary compensating.”
Cherry Eclipse said “helm not responding.”
Comet said “were caught in the planets gravitational pull” as the ship entered the planets atmosphere Comet shouted “prepare for impact!”
The crew watched as trees quickly came into view the ship tilted 34⁰ to the right crew lurched as the ship crashed into the trees. The ship skidded along breaking and uprooting several trees and soon came to a stop as the crew got to their feet.
Once the ship came to a stop Comet asked “is every pony alright”
Every pony nodded and said they were alright.
Comet said “damage report.”
Rose Blossom said “main engines are inoperable and the communications relay is damaged."
Comet said “Cadet Firefly you and Pinkie go outside and assess the damage to the ship Rose Blossom and Cherry Eclipse provide cover if needed, Crescent Star I’ll need your help getting the communication relay online then we can send out a distress signal.”
Cherry Eclipse, Emerald firefly, Pinkie Pie and Rose Blossom traveled along the corridors and soon found a massive hull breach and used it as an exit. The planet was sub-tropical there were trees everywhere except the trail the ship made as they walked on the cracked and broken hull.
Pinkie said wiping her forehead “wow it's hot.”
Cherry Eclipse pulled out a scanner “the temperature is 34⁰ C.”
Emerald Firefly also performed a scan “no hostile lifeforms detected.”
Rose Blossom walked to the aft section and pulled out a communication device “Cadet Blossom to Comet.”
A voice replied “Comet here.”
Rose Blossom said “the hull is breached there is a 71.3 centimeter hole we crawled out of and there is a 7 meter hole near the engines and the core is venting plasma” suddenly an explosion shook the ship. The cadets were knocked off their feet as a huge ploom of smoke rose into the air. When they got to their feet they saw blue flames coming out of the hole they could feel an intense heat and backed away. Cherry Eclipse did another scan and said “not good” she took out her communication device.
“Cherry Eclipse to Comet” a voice replied “Comet here” Cherry said “Capitan we have a situation the plasma vents have caught fire” Comet groaned “meet us 500 meters to the north Cherry asked “why?”
Comet shouted “NO TIME TO EXPLAIN CADET JUST MOVE IT!”
Cherry turned to the other cadets “you heard the Capitan” when they arrived at the designated location and met up with the others. Cherry Eclipse asked “Comet why did you have us meet out here?”
Comet pointed towards the wreckage in the distance as it exploded in a huge fireball producing a small shockwave that traveled for 200 meters. The blast knocked down more trees and set fire to everything within a 140 meter range.
Comet said “I gathered what provisions I could and a portable distress beacon” as he activated the device.
Emerald Firefly asked “how long until were rescued?”
Comet said “not long a few days.”
A few days after the crew of the Breezie were rescued Pinkie and Comet were sitting in Admiral Celestia’s office.
Comet recounted what happened on Pentar after he finished he said “during the time we were marooned Pinkie kept us entertained with her strong optimism, stories and jokes. If not for her high spirits moral would have been lost. Such cheerfulness is a rare commodity based on her endless merriment I would like to recommend Pinkie Pie for the achievement of laughter.”
Admiral Celestia nodded I agree what do you think Luna, Cadence?”
Both Luna and Cadence nodded.
Admiral Luna said “yes I recommend Pinkie Pie for the achievement.”
Vice Admiral Cadence said “I also recommend Pinkie Pie for the achievement.”
Admiral Celestia smiled as she stood up walked over to the wall activated her horn and magically unlocked the safe she reached in and pulled out a small box. She then returned to the table and opened the box inside were 3 gemstones blue, purple and lavender. She levitated the blue gem and placed it into Pinkies hands the gem glowed then flashed with a red light. The light was bright but not blinding after the light faded Pinkie looked at the gem and saw it had transformed into a balloon the same as her cutie mark.
Celestia smiled “wear it with pride.”
Comet said “congratulations.”
Pinkie smiled “thank you.”
Rarity
Rarity went to the courtyard and stood alongside the other cadets when a cream colored Earth pony mare with a yellow mane and tail stepped out. She paced back and forth with her hands behind her back as she addressed the recruits “I am Commander Golden Sunshine. The Canterlot Confederation will be awarding six achievements to those who can excel at one or more of these attributes Kindness, laughter, generosity, honesty, loyalty and magic. The pony who excels in that field will receive not only the achievement but a commission on the E.N.S Wonderbolt. Any questions?" No pony said anything Golden Sunshine said “meet me at launch pad H at 14:30 hrs. dismissed.”
Rarity went to the pad and Cmdr. Sunshine stood there holding a clipboard “welcome to the E.N.S Fire Flight name?”
Rarity said “Rarity.”
Sunshine looked at her clipboard “you’re on navigation.”
Rarity saluted and boarded the ship as she entered went down a corridor to a lift as she entered she said “bridge” the lift activated and the after a moment the doors opened and she entered the bridge. She saw 2 consoles with chairs behind them in front of them was a giant screen embedded into the wall. She looked at the console it looked user friendly.
She sat in the chair and looked at the console when the doors opened and Cmdr. Sunshine and 4 other ponies exited the lift.
Cmdr. Sunshine said “now that every pony is here let us introduce ourselves.
”
A unicorn stallion with a navy blue coat and a blonde mane and tail stepped forward “Magic Sunbeam” then stepped back.
An Earth pony mare with a red coat and a pink mane and tail was next “Pearly Sapphire.”
Next was a pegasus stallion with a light blue coat and a blonde mane and tail stepped forward “Velvet Lightning.”
Last was a unicorn stallion with a brown coat and a lighter shade of brown mane and tail “Spring Monsoon.”
Rarity smiled and introduced herself.
Cmdr. Sunshine nodded “now that introductions are out of the way we can discuss our mission we are going to the planet Imoraha they are experiencing a planet wide crisis. Recently their star had a massive coronal mass ejection producing a massive geomagnetic storm it struck the planet several days ago the geo storm severely damaged their infrastructure. Our mission is to deliver food and clothing and assist them with the manufacturing of fabrics. That will help them until they can rebuild their infrastructure do any of you have any experience with manufacturing fabrics?”
Rarity smiled she knew about creating fabrics it was a hobby she dabbled in she raised her hand “I have experience in producing outfits.”
Sunshine nodded “very good when we arrive you’re in charge of manufacturing” Rarity clapped her hands together now every pony take your stations. Rarity took the helm, Velvet Lightning navigation, Pearly Sapphire tactical, Spring Monsoon engineering and Magic Sunbeam science.”
Once they reached Imoraha they traveled to the surface the inhabitance were unusual the stood on 4 legs but also had arms on their torsos. The crew began assisting with the food and clothing the inhabitants were amazed at Rarity’s skill with fabrics.
A tall stallion came up to Rarity and said “greetings I am Sarclox prime minister of Imoraha” he extended a hand as Rarity shook it “your work and supplies are greatly appreciated.”
Rarity smiled “happy to help.”
Sarclox said “I’m impressed with your manufacturing skills and I hear you’re teaching others and not asking for anything in return.”
Rarity nodded “is that a bad thing?”
Sarclox shook his head “no its just unusual on this planet we use a bartering system the other members of your crew are bartering for things it’s rare to meet someone who is willing to do something for free.”
Rarity smiled again and said “I’m just happy to help out.”
After the mission conceded the Fire Flight returned to Canterlot Academy Rarity and Cmdr. Sunshine were in Admiral Celestia’s office
Cmdr. Sunshine said “Admiral, Rarity was the only member of the crew who donated her skills and services for free in spite of the planets bartering custom. Based on that act of liberality I would like to recommend Rarity for the achievement of generosity.”
Admiral Celestia nodded I agree what do you think Luna, Cadence?”
Both Luna and Cadence nodded.
Admiral Luna said “yes I recommend Rarity for the achievement.”
Vice Admiral Cadence said “I also recommend Rarity for the achievement.”
Admiral Celestia smiled as she stood up walked over to the wall activated her horn and magically unlocked the safe she reached in and pulled out a small box. She then returned to the table and opened the box inside were 2 gemstones one purple one lavender. She levitated the purple gem and placed it into Rarity’s hands the gem glowed then flashed with a purple light. The light was bright but not blinding after the light faded Rarity looked at the gem and saw it had transformed into a diamond the same as her cutie mark.
Celestia smiled “wear it with pride.”
Sunshine said “congratulations.”
Twilight
Twilight went to a courtyard and stood alongside the other cadets she noticed they were all Earth ponies then a red Earth pony stallion with a light blue mane and tail stepped out. He paced back and forth as he addressed the group “I am Capitan Blue Ember. The Canterlot Confederation will be awarding six achievements to those who can excel at one or more of these attributes Kindness, laughter, generosity, honesty, loyalty and magic. The pony who excels in that field will receive not only the achievement but a commission on the E.N.S Wonderbolt. We will be traveling to the planet Alecto any questions?” No pony said anything Blue Ember said “meet me at launch pad J at 14:30 hrs. dismissed.”
Twilight went to the pad and Capitan Ember stood there holding a clipboard “welcome to the E.N.S Nimbus name?”
Twilight said “Twilight Sparkle.”
Capitan Ember looked at his clipboard then at Twilight and smirked “your my first officer in the event I am injured or killed you’re in command.”
Twilight blinked “me?”
Ember nodded “yes your academy test scores were exemplary all cadets who score between 3.7-5.0 earn the commission of first officer” he smiled “you scored 4.6.”
Twilight nodded and saluted “I’ll do my best” and boarded the ship as she entered went down a hall to a lift and said “bridge” the lift activated and the after a moment the doors opened and she entered the bridge. She saw there were 2 chairs in the center in front of them were the 2 consoles with chairs in front of them was a giant screen embedded into the wall.
Soon Capitan Ember and the rest of the crew entered the bridge Ember said “now that we are all here let us introduce ourselves.”
A lime green mare with a forest green mane and tail stepped forward “Twirling Lime.”
Next was a mare with a light brown coat and an orange mane and tail “Autumn Serenity.”
A red stallion with a blonde mane and tail stepped forward “Mystic Thunder.”
Next was a mare with a peach coat and the same color mane and tail only a lighter shade stepped forward “Peachy Skies.”
Next was a stallion with a navy blue coat and a golden mane and tail stepped forward “Shining Nectar,”
Twilight stepped forward “Twilight Sparkle.”
Ember smiled now that introductions are out of the way I can inform you about our mission we are going to the planet Alecto. We will pick up ambassador Cloudy Twirl and take him to his home world Karkinos. The planet is close to griffin territory so we will be on the lookout for griffin raiders” he smiled “every pony take your stations.”
Twirling Lime took navigation, Autumn Serenity tactical, Mystic Thunder science, Peachy Skies took engineering and Shining Nectar took the helm.
Twilight sat in the chair next to Blue Ember.
After the crew completed their mission and was leaving Karkinos they were preparing to return to Confederation territory, when Autumn Serenity said “Capitan were receiving a distress signal from a Confederation colony.”
Ember asked “can you locate the source?”
Autumn Serenity said “it’s coming from the planet Anemoi in the Hedone system audio only.”
Ember said “put it through.”
A voice came through “this is Prime Minister Aidos of the Confederation planet Anemoi we are under attack were attempting to rally our def-” the sound abruptly stopped.
Autumn Serenity said “we’ve lost contact sir.”
Ember said “set course for Anemoi maximum velocity.”
Shining Nectar said “course and speed set.”
Ember said “initiate.”
Twirling Lime said “we will arrive in one hour.”
When they arrived Ember said “see if you can contact the colony.”
Autumn Serenity said “no response.”
Ember said “Twirling Lime scan the planet.”
Twirling Lime said “sir the colony is gone!”
Ember said “how is that possible?”
Twirling Lime said “there is nothing there only giant craters where the capital and surrounding towns should be.”
Ember was about to say something when Autumn Serenity said “Capitan there is a ship on an intercept course.”
Ember asked “can you identify it?”
Autumn Serenity said “I’m not sure it’s not like any ship I’ve ever seen before.”
Ember said “on viewer.”
The screen lit up and a ship could be seen approaching it was unlike any ship he or the crew had ever seen before.
Ember said “condition yellow.”
As the ship came closer they could make out more details it was huge and had the body of a canine with large pointed ears on its head.
Ember said “Autumn Serenity open a communication channel.”
Autumn Serenity said “no response.”
Ember said “Twirling Lime scan the ship.”
Twirling said “the ship’s hull cannot be penetrated by our scanners.”
Ember was about to say something when Twirling Lime said “Capitan I’m detecting an energy buildup from the ship.”
Twilight said “raise shields.”
Suddenly the alien ship fired a set of red energy bolts from its eyes the bolts striking the ship shaking it causing the crew to stammer
Ember shouted RETURN FIRE!”
The Nimbus fired 3 green energy bolts at the alien ship Twirling Lime said “our weapons are not having any affect.” As the alien ship fired again the ship listed 45⁰ Ember was thrown from his chair his head hitting the floor hard.
Twilight came to his side “CAPIATN!”
Ember moaned softly then fell unconscious.
Twilight said “medical team to the bridge.”
A medical team came to the bridge and took Ember to the medical bay.
Twilight sat in the Capitan’s chair when Twirling Lime said “were receiving a message from the other ship.”
Twilight said “on viewer.”
The screen lit up and a being that looked like a cybernetic canine appeared on the screen it was partially metallic with one red laser eye.
Twilight said “I am Twilight Sparkle first officer of the Nimbus why did you attack this ship?”
The being spoke in a semi-robotic voice. “I Hobnil commander of the Votan you ship valuable to us you surrender in name of Kuber Koira empire.”
Twilight asked “if we refuse?”
Hobnil grinned showing sharp teeth “your ship damaged I give you choice surrender or we destroy you.”
Twilight thought for a moment “give me time.”
Hobnil said “I give you 15 of your minutes” the screen went blank.”
Twilight turned to the crew I’m open to suggestions.”
Before any of the crew could respond a voice came over the communication system “engineering to bridge.”
Twilight responded “this is the bridge Twilight here.”
The voice said “this is Sapphire Almond we have a problem in the engine room and need your assistance.”
Twilight said “I’m on my way” she stood up and said “Twirling Lime you have the bridge.”
She went to the engine room and met Sapphire Almond who said “we have a problem the engine core is damaged and the ejection systems are jammed. If we don’t remove it in the next 10 minutes it will collapse and destroy the ship.”
Twilight asked what about manual ejection?”
Sapphire Almond pointed to a door “the manual ejection is on the other side of that door and about 200,000 rads of radiation”
Twilight asked what about transporting out into space?”
Sapphire Almond said “we can’t there is too much radiation.”
Suddenly a console exploded in a shower of sparks Sapphire Almond ran over and checked “no no no this is very bad the electromagnetic clamps just collapsed we have 2 minutes.”
Twilight said “I’m going to try something stand back” she closed her eyes and her horn began to glow it grew brighter a bright flash filled the room. She went to a console and said “Twilight to bridge raise the shields.”
Suddenly the ship shook then a voice came over the communication system Twirling Lime to Twilight.”
Twilight pressed a button Twilight here report.”
Twirling Lime said “good news commander the alien ship has been destroyed.”
Twilight said “very good for Confederation space” turning to Sapphire Almond best possible speed” she went to the medical bay and met Dr. Cheery Flitter she asked “how’s Capitan Ember?”
Dr. Flitter said “he suffered a concussion but will be fine.”
Twilight asked “can I see him? Dr. Flitter nodded “yes but be brief he needs to rest.”
Twilight went to Capitan Ember’s bedside and smiled “how are you feeling”
Ember said slightly groggily “my head hurts but I’m good how’s my ship?”
Twilight smiled “it’s in good condition I’ll keeping your seat warm oh and….”
Ember raised an eyebrow “what happened?”
Twilight closed her eyes and told him about the events in the engine room and the alien ultimatum to her surprise he wasn’t angry. He just nodded and placed a hand on her shoulder “your quick thinking saved us.”
After the Nimbus returned to Confederation territory Twilight and Ember were sitting in Admiral Celestia’s office.
Ember recounted the events of the Nimbus being attacked by an unknown race and how Twilight took command of the ship and used teleportation magic to eject the damaged engine core before it exploded.
Admiral Luna asked “what happened to the alien ship?”
Ember said “she threw the damaged engine core at them” Twilight just sank slightly in her seat as the admirals looked at her. He continued “based her quick thinking and degree of magical prowess I would like to recommend Twilight Sparkle for the achievement of magic.”
Admiral Celestia nodded I agree what do you think Luna, Cadence?”
Both Luna and Cadence nodded.
Admiral Luna said “yes I recommend Twilight Sparkle for the achievement.”
Vice Admiral Cadence said “I also recommend Twilight Sparkle for the achievement.”
Admiral Celestia smiled as she stood up walked over to the wall activated her horn and magically unlocked the safe she reached in and pulled out a small box. She then returned to the table and opened the box inside was a lavender gemstone. She levitated the gem and placed it into Twilight’s hands the gem glowed then flashed with lavender light. The light was bright but not blinding after the light faded Twilight looked at the gem and saw it had transformed into a star the same as her cutie mark.
Celestia smiled “wear it with pride.”
Ember said “congratulations.”
