GLADIATORS

TWO DAYS LATER

"Here we are, Cloudsdale, isn't it lovely?" Said Twilight

"Reminds me of the Crystal Empire," said Sunset

"Because of how beautiful it is?" Asked Pinkie

"No, too flashy," said Sunset

"Well that doesn't matter, we are here on a mission, come on, let's head towards the arena," said Twilight

Twilight and the girls walked through the streets of Cloudsdale searching for the arena.

They thought that it would be easy to find since a large crowd of people was headed towards a stadium

"You think that's the arena?" Asked Pinkie

"It's smaller than I thought," said Sunset

"Well let's go find out," said Twilight as she headed to the stadium.

A FEW MINUTES LATER

"Welcome to Cloudsdale's central stadium today we have a friendly match between the Cloudsdale Wonderbolts and the Griffinstone Cavaliers, this match is one of many in the long list of preparation matches for next years world cup, the match will begin shortly," said a female announcer

"Did you hear that, this is our chance to see what we're up against," said Sunset

"Good idea, let's watch this match," said Twilight as she walked up to the paying booth

"Hello, what can I give you today?" Said the cashier

"I'd like 3 entrances for the match, please," said Twilight

"Coming right up, would you like general, or VIP?" Asked the cashier

"General, please," said Twilight

"Ok then, it will be $75," said the cashier

"Thanks," said Twilight as she paid "by the way, is this the Gladiators arena?" She asked

"Oh no, the arena is all the way up there," said the cashier pointing to a massive building on the top of a mountain.

Everyone's jaw dropped when they saw it

"I was not expecting that," said Twilight

"We'll never get there today," said Sunset

"You can just take the bus," said the cashier

"Bus?" They all Asked

"Yup, bus number 300 to Cyclone St. It will drop you off just outside the arena," said the cashier

"Thanks for your help," said Twilight giving the cashier a $20 bill

"Hope you come again, enjoy the match," said the cashier

Twilight and the girls entered the arena and headed to their seats, and waited for the match to begin

“LADIIIIIIIIES AND GENTLEMEN, WELCOME TO TODAY'S FRIENDLY MATCH BETWEEN THE CLOUDSDALE WONDERBOLTS AND THE GRIFFINSTON CAVALIERS; let’s check the lineups shall we?” said the narrator

“Well the Wonderbolts are going out with their finest players, and will be using their typical strategy,” said the second narrator

Soarin 89 OVR Fire Streak 87 OVR

Spitfire 93 OVR

Thunderlane 88 OVR High Winds 86 OVR

Misty Fly 86 OVR

Silver Zoom 88 OVR Surprise 85 OVR

“And there we have it, Cloudsdale’s famous “All for all” lineup, lead by Spitfire for the 5th year in a row,” said one of the narrators

“And now we have the Cavaliers lineup,” said the other narrator

Greta 86 OVR

Gabby 88 OVR Giselle 87 OVR

Gilda 92 OVR

Garner 88 OVR

Gaston 87 OVR Gordon 86 OVR

Gerard 86 OVR

“And Griffinstone is coming out with their most complete strategy/lineup in their history, “The Tornado” as they call it,” said the other narrator

Back to the seats, with the girls, they all looked at the massive Jumbotrons hanging from the ceiling, while they showed the line ups.

“Woohoo, this is going to be a very intense match,” said Twilight “Perfect for us to see how real pro’s do it,”

“Who do you think is going to win?” said Pinkie Pie

“It’s gonna be close,” said Sunset

“Close?!” said Twilight “What do you mean close?”

“The Wonderbolts tend to use their speed and maneuvers to gain the upper hand in these types of matches, but Griffinston like to use speed and strength when fighting, making this match reach an impasse,” said Sunset

“So then the winner will be, whoever has more determination,” said Twilight as she sat back down to watch the match.

“LET THE MATCH BEGIN!!!”

“Soarin and Fire Streak have engaged Gabby and Giselle in combat, and none of them look like giving an inch,” said one of the narrators

“I’m paying attention to battle happening between Soarin and Gabby, it looks heated,” said a narrator

“Agreed, on one side we have Soarin, one of the all-time best wingers we’ve ever had and on the other side we have Gabby it’s her rookie season and already she is considered Griffinston’s “Golden Girl” what are your thoughts on that?” said the other narrator

“Gabriella Griffon “Gabby” Queen of the Griffinston arena for 3 years in a row now, only 26 years of age, and at her age, already a national level gladiator, a feat not easily achieved,” said the narrator

“True, apart of her, the other youngest N.L.G. is Sonata Dusk from the Marequestria national team,” said the other narrator

“Yeah, but the youngest ever N.L.G was Princess Celestia Solaris herself who joined Canterlot at the age of 20, over 17 years ago,” said the narrator

“WOW, we were so engrossed in our talking we didn’t even realize that Thunderlane had defeated Garner, one powerful blow to the stomach and… OH! Thunderlane has been knocked out by Gilda, the Griffinston Captain didn’t even let Thunderlane celebrate before body slamming him into the ground, we are one - one now,” said the Narrator

“That was a very interesting moment, Garner, the Griffinstone Defensive Back, and Vice-captain, defeated by Thunderlane in just one move and just seconds later Gilda tackling and body-slamming Thunderlane into the ground, very good move by Gilda, fixing the mistake done by Garner, of breaking lines, and now she has gone back to hunting the rival attackers,” said the narrator

A FEW MINUTES LATER

“It has been almost 20 minutes, and still there have been no new situations, yet the battles going on in the arena are getting really heated,” said the Narrator

“Yes sir, this match is getting better and better, and yet…” BOOM! “OH, WHAT HAPPENED AT THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ARENA?!” said the other Narrator

“Surprise has been knocked out by Gordon, a very good combination of punches typical of his “boxing styles” and then, in his attempt to aid his girl Greta against Fire Streak, he stepped on one of Spitfire’s land mines, and he has taken out, both, himself, Greta, and Fire Streak,” said the Narrator

“Talk about “death from beyond the grave” earlier in the match Giselle had switched places with Greta, who was having a tough time against High Winds, let’s see what happens next,” said the other Narrator

A FEW MINUTES LATER

“We are down to the final 5 minutes of the competition and the score is tied six-six, Spitfire and Soarin for Cloudsdale and Gilda and Gabby for Griffinstone remain standing,” said the Narrator

“A quick recap of what happened, Thuderlane took out Garner, Gilda took out Thunderlane, Gordon eliminated Surprise and then took himself and Greta and Fire Streak out, moments later Silver Zoom and Gerard, crashed heavily into each other both having to surrender do to their injuries, Giselle, then accidentally walking into the battle between Soarin and Gabby and being pummeled by both of their attacks…” said the Narrator

“Talk about an awful move,” said the other one

“If you think that was silly, try to explain Gaston’s move, he tried to lure both Misty Fly and High Winds towards him, just for him to be shoved from behind by Spitfire as she fought Gilda, landing in a land mine and being knocked out,” said the Narrator

“Yes, you need to be really aware of where you are standing and of your surroundings, the opposite of what these fighters did,” said the other Narrator

“And to add insult to injury, on bad moves, both Misty Fly and High Winds split up heading towards the ongoing battles just to be taken out before even arriving, Misty Fly getting run over by Gabby as she escaped Soarin’s attack, and High Winds being to slow to get out of the way of Gilda’s Kick-nado,” said the other narrator

“Well it’s up to Spitfire and Soarin to give Cloudsdale the win, remember the series is tied 3 - 3, and this game will be the last one,” said the Narrator

“And I believe that no one wants to lose here today, no one is giving an inch, nor an opening with only a few more seconds to go,”

“Will there be a last-second knockout?”

“Well if there is it looks like it will be Soarin, he seems really tired,”

“10...9...8...7...6...5...4...3...2...1...GAME!!!”

“It’s a tie after all, well done to both teams… now the medics enter the arena grounds to take care of the knocked out gladiators,”

“After this month’s past games, I can say, without a shadow of a doubt, that both teams are ready for the world cup, coming early next year,”

“I believe so too, well, good night to all, please remember to exit the stadium in an orderly manner as to not create a clog in the exits, and please, put your garbage in the garbage cans, please respect the environment, thank you,” said the narrators as the game ended

“That was awesome!!!” said Twilight

“Yeah, watching this match really has my blood going, I feel like fighting someone,” said Pinkie

“Please don’t, I don’t want to get in trouble here in our first day,” said Sunset

“Speaking of that, where should we stay?” asked Twilight

“I know just the place, it’s called Cloudview Manor, and it’s a very nice hotel,” said Pinkie Pie

“Sounds pricy,” said Twilight

“It is, but, the owner owes me a favor so, I’ll just ask him,” said Pinkie as she walked away followed by Twilight and Sunset.

A FEW MINUTES LATER AT THE HOTEL

“What do you mean you have no room?!” said Pinkie

“I’m sorry Pinkie, I know I said I owed you for helping me last time I was in Ponyville, but the hotel is currently the host for the Griffinstone Gladiator team, not to mention the remaining rooms have all been booked,” said the owner

“Then what are we supposed to do?” asked Twilight

“Well, there is another hotel just like this one at the other side of the town, tell the owner that I sent you and he will give you a room,” said the owner

“Are you sure?” asked Pinkie

“Oh yes, I called him a few minutes ago, actually I had just finished my call to him when you entered and he said that he only had 20 of the 100 rooms booked,” said the Owner

“Oh well,” said Sunset

“Thanks for everything,” said Twilight

“Next time you come, I’ll give you a special deal, to make up for today, ok,” said the Owner

“Ok, see you next time Mr. Hurricane,” said Pinkie

“Bye-bye, and once again, I’m really sorry,” said Mr. Hurricane as he waved the girls goodbye “Don’t expand the hotel they said, it’s big enough they said, well fuck that,”

A FEW MINUTES LATER

“Well, we are almost there,” said Pinkie

“The Silver Lining Hotel, sound cozy,” said Sunset

“I wonder if we will be able to find someone to join our team,” said Twilight

“We will, you’ll see, this city has the most “ready to go” Gla… do you hear that?” said Pinkie

“Hear what?” asked Sunset

“Shhhhhhhhhh. Sounds like a struggle… this way!” said Pinkie as she started to ran down a dark alley

“She has super hearing now? What’s next?” said Sunset sarcastically

“Shut the fuck up and follow her, let’s hope she doesn’t get in trouble,” said Twilight as she darted after Pinkie.

A FEW MINUTES LATER

Pinkie came to a stop at a three-way crossing

“Are you… are you sure… you aren’t making this up?” asked Sunset

“Shhhhhhh, listen,” said Pinkie

The three girls stayed quiet and, in the distance, they could hear something

“LET ME GO!” said a female voice

“Not happening… stop resisting!” said a male voice

“Ouch, stop hitting me,” said the female voice

“It’s this way, come on!” said Pinkie

“Wait! We don’t know what we are dealing with, Pinkie, you and Sunset climb up to the roofs and follow me to the voices, if things get dicey, jump off and attack ok,” said Twilight as both Pinkie and Sunset flew/climbed to the roofs

Twilight then turned left and dashed towards the voices.

After a few more seconds, the voices started to get louder

“Please let me go!” said the female voice

“Oh no, you aren’t going to get out of this so easily you dumb bitch,” said a male voice

“Yeah, it’s time for you to learn some respect,” said another male voice
Twilight then turned the corner and was met with a horrific sight, 4 male Griffons had cornered a female pegasus and were hitting her.

The pegasus had long Pinkish hair, green eyes, and a very big chest, her clothes were also torn in some places, mostly due to the Griffons pulling, pushing, and punching her.

“Hey! What’s going on here?” she asked

“None of your business, bitch!” said one of them

“She has seen us, we can’t let her get away,” said another

“Get her!” said the third one

Just as soon as they were going to touch Twilight, Sunset Shimmer, and Pinkie Pie jumped off the roofs and landed on top of 2 of the Griffons knocking them out instantly

“How dare you prey on the defenseless!” said Pinkie as she got off her target

“Drop the act, girl,” said one of the remaining griffons

“Are you ok?” Sunset asked the girl

“Yes, thank you,” said the girl

“Who are you people?” asked Twilight

“I know them, that fool with the sword is Gabriel, Griffinstone’s reserve Wing back, the one with the rope is Gunther, reserve Paladin, as for these idiots… Gale, another Paladin, and...Rinehart?! What is the whole male side of the Griffinstone bench doing here, harassing a lady?” said Sunset

“Like I said, NONE. OF. YOUR. BUSINESS” said Gabriel

“They wanted me to “entertain them” but I refused, and then my pet bunny Angel, punched one of them in the head and then they grabbed me and dragged me here form the Main Road,” said the girl

“So you were going to rape her?” said Twilight

“Ha, no, this bitch doesn’t deserve to even smell us, much less have our seed,” said Gunther proudly

“We were just going to teach her a lesson,” said Gabriel as they took a step forward

“Just like we’ll teach y..” said Gabriel as Pinkie punched him in the head causing him to fly to the nearby wall, and fall unconscious

“Wrong answer,” said Pinkie in a creepy voice

“Goodnight,” said Twilight as Gunther turned to face her and was hit by her magic blast and fell knocked out.
The girls then quickly ran over to the girl and untied her

“Are you sure you’re ok?” asked Sunset

“Yes, I am, only a few scratches and bruises,” said the girl a bit louder than a whisper

“My name is Twilight Sparkle,”

“Sunset Shimmer,”

“Pinkamena Diane Pie, Pinkie Pie, for short,” said Pinkie

“Hi, my name is Fluttershy,”

“What are we going to do with them?” asked Twilight

“Let’s call the police and let them handle it,” said Sunset

“No need, I think they learned their lesson,” said Fluttershy again almost whispering

“Are you crazy?! These guys almost killed you,” said Pinkie

“Yeah, but look at them,” said Fluttershy

“Even if they are almost dead, that won’t stop them from coming after you and us later,” said Sunset

“No really, It was my fault, to begin with, I should’ve agreed,” said Fluttershy

“And degrade yourself for their own amusement?! They were going to rape you!” said Sunset

“Why are you defending them so much?” asked Twilight

“I believe that everyone has good inside them, plus, as I said, I’m sure they’ve learned their lesson,” said Fluttershy

“No they didn’t,” said Twilight “They will recover from this and go back to their old ways, let the police take care of them,” said Twilight

Fluttershy, feeling defeated, accepted and let Twilight call the police

A few minutes later the police arrived with an ambulance to take the Griffons into custody, Fluttershy provided her statement and then left with the girls.

“Thanks for saving me again,” said Fluttershy

“No problem,” said Twilight

“Where are you headed?” asked Fluttershy

“To the hotel that is around the corner,” said Pinkie

“Oh, and what brings you to Cloudsdale?” asked Fluttershy

“Well, we are here cause we’re looking for Gladiators willing to join the new Canterlot Gladiator team,” said Twilight

“Would you like to join?” asked Sunset

“I’d love to, but I’m not a Gladiator,” said Fluttershy

“Oh, ok then,” said Twilight

“By the way? What do you do for a living?” asked Sunset

“Oh, I’m a Veterinarian, but right now, I’m just working as a housekeeper for a friend of mine since she isn’t in town for the moment,” said Fluttershy

“And where are you from?” asked Pinkie

“From Cloudsdale, born and raised, but I also own a house and clinic in Ponyville, where I live,” said Fluttershy

“How come I’ve never seen you?” asked Pinkie Pie

“I don’t go out much,” said Fluttershy, this louder than a whisper

“Still don’t you need to eat or buy provisions?” said Pinkie

“Yes, but I just order online, they deliver everything to my clinic “The Ponyville Animal Sanctuary,” said Fluttershy

“Oh, I’ve seen it, I took Gummy there once,” said Pinkie existed

“Gummy? Oh you mean the little alligator, he’s yours?” asked Fluttershy

“Yup!” said Pinkie

“You aren’t feeding him any more candy, are you?” asked Fluttershy

“Nope, took the doctor’s orders to heart… your orders to heart,” said Pinkie

“Good, the poor thing had to have his stomach pumped, and that’s not pleasant,” said Fluttershy

“Still, how the hell did I not see you, I only saw this, long-haired, skinny, tall guy. He gave me the paperwork, I signed it and then he took Gummy,” said Pinkie

“Oh, that was my younger brother, Zephyr Breeze, he was helping me out at the clinic for a few days that summer, I’m not good with people or crowds, I tend to freeze or pass out,” said Fluttershy

“Ah, you’re one of those shut-in’s, people that hate to socialize,” said Sunset

“No, a shut-in doesn’t want to be a member of society due to emotional or psychological issues, including bullying. My guess is that Fluttershy is just… Shy,” said Twilight

The girls looked at Fluttershy, who turned red and tried to hide behind her hair

“Agreed,” they both said

“Well this is our stop, is your house far?” said Twilight as they arrived at the hotel

“Oh, no, my friend’s apartment is just three building down,” said Fluttershy as she started to walk away.

“Hey, Fluttershy, why don’t you come with us tomorrow, and help us out with the trials? You might even learn a thing or two about defending yourself,” said Sunset

“I-I don’t know… I’m not good with crowds,” said Fluttershy

“Come on, it’ll be fun,” said Sunset

“Yeah, and if any of those nasty griffons show up again, I will make them eat their balls!” said Pinkie
Fluttershy remind quiet for a few seconds before nodding slowly

“Ok then meet us in front of the hotel tomorrow at 10 AM,” said Twilight

“Ok,” she said, she walked away

“Do you really think she will be able to learn something?” Twilight asked Sunset

“Trust me, she might look like the “Cute-defenseless” type girl but she has potential,” said Sunset

“I agree, did you see the size of her melons?!” said Pinkie, earning a look from the other two girls as they walked away

“NO WAIT! I DIDN’T MEAN IT THAT WAY! I DON’T SWING THAT WAY!” said Pinkie as she ran after them.

THE NEXT MORNING

“So do you girls have a list of people that want to join?” asked Fluttershy

“Nope,” said Twilight

“So then, how are you going to make a trail?” asked Fluttershy

“With this Poster!” said Twilight as she unrolled the poster

Fluttershy looked at Twilight then at the poster, and back at Twilight “And THIS is your plan?” she asked

“Well, not all of it, if you can hold this… thank you… and we do some multiplication magic… and… voila! We have about 100 posters ready to paste and be distributed… mind if you help us?” said Twilight

Fluttershy noted and took some of the posters

“Ok then, let’s split up and hand them out or paste them in the walls,” said Twilight, as all of them head out in different directions

A FEW HOURS LATER

“Ok, how many people did you bring in?” asked Twilight

“I have 2 females,” said Sunset

“I have 1 Male,” said Pinkie

“I pasted all of the posters, but no one seemed to care about them,” said Fluttershy

“And I was only able to find these 3,” said Twilight as she showed 1 teenage girl and 2 teenage boys.

“Twilight, you know the rules, you have to be at least 24 to join the national teams,” said Sunset

“I never said they were here for the trail, the wanted to see it,” said Twilight

“How old are you kid?” asked Sunset to the girl

“I’m 17 years old, and I’m a student at Canterlot Academy,” said the girl

“What are you doing here then?” asked Sunset

“Visiting family, it is summer break,” she said

“True… and you two?” asked Sunset

“17 both of us,” said one of them

“Ok then, names?” asked Sunset

“Scootaloo,” said the girl

“Rumble,” said the tallest/buffest kid

“Featherweight,” said the lanky one

“Well, my name is Sunset Shimmer, that’s Twilight, Pinkie, and our friend Fluttershy,” she said

“We know,” said Rumble

“Everyone in the academy knows the 2 of you,” said Featherweight pointing at Twilight and Sunset

“The Deadly Duo” that’s what we call you,” said Scootaloo

“They kept the nickname?” said Twilight angrily

“Yup,” said Rumble

“As for Fluttershy, and Pinkie… Shy is a friend of the family, and everyone knows of Pinkie’s pastries,” said Scootaloo

“Well, now that introductions with you kids are done...” said Sunset “ What about you three?” se finished

“Oh, hi, my name is Stormwalker, I’m Rumble’s older sister, and this is my best friend…” said the first girl

“Flitter! Nice to meet you all!” said the second girl

“My name is Cloudchaser… and for some fun fact, I share a “name” with Stormwalker,” said the tall buff man

“Well, welcome to the tryouts,” said Twilight

“Now before we begin, I have to ask, were you all born in Cloudsdale?” said Sunset

They all nodded yes

“Have any of you participated in any national-level competitions?” asked Twilight

“Does, Olympic cross country count?” asked Cloudchaser

“Was it with the Cloudsdale Olympic national team?” asked Twilight

“Yes,” he said

“That makes you ineligible for the Canterlot national team since that would count as a betrayal,” said Twilight

“OH, STORM CLOUDS!” he said

“Yeah?” said a female pegasus that was flying by

“SORRY, I WAS CURSING!” said Cloudchaser

“OH, OK, SEE YOU LATER THAN!” said the pegasus as she flew away

“Thanks for coming, sorry it didn’t work out,” said Fluttershy

“It’s ok, I’ll just have to write my name in the Wonderbolts waiting list,” said Cloudchaser as he walked away

“What about you 2?” asked Twilight

“Nope, we haven’t been involved in any competition,” said Flitter

“Ok then, how old are you?” asked Twilight

“I’m 25 said Stormwalker,” said

“I’m 24, but my birthday is next month,” said Flitter

“Ok then, what positions do you play?” asked Sunset

“I can play as a winger, wingback, Defense wing, or center,” said Stormwalker

“I can only play as forward and Left-winger,” said Flitter

“Ok then, Stormwalker, you will fight against me, I can play in any position but I prefer to be a paladin if you can evade every single one of my attacks you’ll be in,” said Sunset

“As for you Flitter, you will face me, I play as center, but also know how to play as a forward, if you can counter my magic, you’re golden,” said Twilight

Both Twilight and Sunset lined up at the far end of the soccer field as Storwalker and Flitter did the same on their side

“OK! READY?! SET!...FIGHT!!!!” said Pinkie

And Stormwalker and Flitter were off, rushing towards Sunset and Twilight.

Twilight then used her horn to summon magic blasts and Flitter managed to evade all of them, until she reached the half field mark, and was hit face first by one of the magic blasts, making her fly back to the other goal.

Right next to them, Stormwalker had gotten close enough to punch Sunset, but she quickly evaded and countered the attack with a kick to Storwalker’s stomach; the power of the kick was such that Storwalker, not only threw up her breakfast (And possibly scraped her pants) but she flew back so fast that you never noticed her land inside the goal net, next to Flitter.

“GOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLLL!” screamed Pinkie Pie as she hugged Fluttershy

“Mind letting go Pinkie, I’m getting dizzy,” said Fluttershy

“Oh, yeah, sorry,” said Pinkie

“It’s ok,” said Fluttershy as they joined Twilight and Sunset on the pitch walking towards Stormwalker and Flitter.

“Are you two ok?” asked Twilight

“Oh, I’m going to feel that one tomorrow,” said Flitter as she sat up rubbing her now red face

Stormwalker just laid on the ground trying to catch her breath… and whatever was left of her breakfast that was still in her throat.

“Let me check you out,” said Fluttershy as she took out a first aid kit

“I thought you were a Vet,” said Sunset

“I am, but I also know first aid,” said Fluttershy proudly

After a few minutes

“Ok, Flitter you only have a small burn due to the impact, you should be fine by tomorrow,” said Fluttershy

“Really, I thought it was much worst,” said Flitter

“Oh, no, I have great self-restraint,” said Twilight

Fluttershy then turned to aid Stormwalker

A few moments later

“A bruised back, stomach, arm, and leg, no major fractures and/or injuries… but I do recommend that you head home, take a shower and… maybe get a change of underwear,” said Fluttershy as she held in a laugh

“Noted… good thing I live just across the street,” said Stormwalker as Flitter helped her up and carried her to her house.

“That was awesome!!!” said Scootaloo as she ran towards the girls followed by Rumble and Featherweight

“You really live up to the name,” said Rumble

“Thanks, kids,” said Sunset

“I really want to grow up fast to be as powerful as you two,” said Featherweight

“First you have to put some muscle on that body of yours,” said Sunset

“Told you!” said Rumble

“You know if you want I can give you a list of exercises that will help you in that aspect,” said Twilight

“You know about this?” asked Sunset

“Well, I do have a certificate in nutrition, a side of my certificate in International Law,” said Twilight as she gave Featherweight some papers

“I better head home now, don’t want to make my aunts worry,” said Scootaloo leaving

“Me too, I should start doing this right away,” said Featherweight as he flew away

“Yeah me too, I better check up on my sister, don’t worry I won’t tell anyone about this,” said Rumble as he left

“That was fun,” said Pinkie

“Agreed,” said Sunset

“So, Fluttershy, did you learn something today?” asked Twilight

“Uhm… I learned… not to mess with you,” said Fluttershy

“You got that right… but, can you fight?” asked Sunset

“I don’t like violence, I prefer to talk things out and avoid injuring people,” said Fluttershy

“Wait, you said, that you can injure people? You can’t even see your own shadow without jumping,” said Pinkie

“That’s an exaggeration… GAAAAAAAH!” said Fluttershy as her tail pocked her leg

“Told you so,” said Pinkie

“Stop bothering her Pinkie, everyone has their fears and strengths, and respecting them makes us stronger,” said Twilight

“True, but that won’t help us finish the team,” said Pinkie

“Let me worry about that,” said Twilight

“Well, I don’t know about you, but I’m heading to the hotel, I’m beat,” said Sunset turning around

What she didn’t know, was that she was about to step on an ant, but Fluttershy did, and as Sunset’s boot was about to end the ant’s life, something came over Fluttershy, as she quickly lunged at Sunset, shoving her so hard, that Sunset flew about 10 meters, went straight threw a demolition site, bringing down the building with her; then mimicking a skipping stone on the nearby lake, and finally crashing hard on the sand at the other side of the lake.

“SUNSET!!!!!” Everyone screamed as Twilight teleported herself, Pinkie, and Fluttershy to the other side of the lake.

“ARE YOU OK?!” asked Twilight

“ARE YOU ALIVE?!” asked Pinkie

“Better… better question… when in… hell... did you… get so strong?” asked Sunset as she climbed out of the crater shaped like her body.

“I’m sorry Sunset, but you were going to step on an innocent ant, and I couldn’t let you,” said Fluttershy

“No problem, I’m not that banged up,” said Sunset

“Yeah, cause your head is so hard it acts like a helmet,” said Twilight

“You don’t value your life enough, do you?” said Sunset

“Going back to Sunset’s question, when did you get so strong? You don’t even show any signs of bulgy muscles in your body,” said Pinkie

“Oh, my work as a vet keeps me in shape, and since I tend to care for wild animals to… well you need to be able to make them know their place will you help them,” said Fluttershy

“Cool,” said Pinkie

“Nevermind that, I think we just found our first Defender,” said Twilight

“Who me?” asked Fluttershy

Twilight nodded

“But I don’t even know the rules of this game, nor have I ever tried it,” said Fluttershy

“Then this is a dilemma,” said Twilight

“It will take us a long time to teach you the ropes and train you at the same time,” said Sunset

“Maybe I can help with that,” said a female voice

“Spitfire?!!” they all said as Spitfire landed

“What are you doing here?” asked Sunset

“Well, I wanted to find out who was the earthly ragdoll,” said Spitfire causing Sunset to turn red

“And I couldn’t help but overhear your conversation,” she said

“And you came here because you thought it was a good chance to strengthen your lines?” said Twilight

“No, we don’t use defenders in our lineup, we use speed and agility,” said Spitfire

“Uhm, question, what does a defender do?” asked Fluttershy

“A defender is a player that most always be ready to assist their teammates during battles, it’s a very tough position, both mentally and physically, not only must you work your body over the limit, but you also have to be able to make split-second decisions,” said Spitfire

“Oh, but, I can’t do that,” said Fluttershy

“Didn’t you just launch your friend Sunset here, about 100 meters milliseconds before she stepped on an ant?” said Spitfire

“Yes,” said Fluttershy

“That is known as the “Defender Instinct” which is a very, and I mean VERY, rare ability, anyone can be a defender, but not EVERYONE can be a DEFENDER, you’re a unique type of gladiator,” said Spitfire

“You really think so?” said Fluttershy

“Without a shadow of a doubt,” said Spitfire

“So, what was your proposal?” asked Twilight

“Let us train her and give her the basics… when I mean us, I mean the Wonderbolts,” said Spitfire

“What do you say Fluttershy?” said Twilight

“Well, my mom said that “if you let new experiences and opportunities go, you might just be an idiot” so let’s do it,” said Fluttershy

“Alright, report to the Wonderbolts academy tomorrow at 0700 hours… 7 AM,” said Spitfire

Fluttershy just nodded

Spitfire then turned to leave but stopped

“Oh yeah… these are for you,” she said as she dug some passes out of her sports bag

“What are these for?” asked Twilight

“These make you guests of the Wonderbolts, it gives you access to the Wonderbolt academy gyms, lectures, and cafeteria, not to mention it also helps you with finding accommodation for your stay,” said Spitfire

“Thank you,” they all said

“Well see you all tomorrow,” said Spitfire as she flew away

“Well we better head to the hotel and get some rest, we’re going to need a lot of energy tomorrow,” said Twilight

Everyone nodded and headed to the hotel

ONE MONTH LATER

“And that will conclude your training, how do you feel Fluttershy?” asked Spitfire

“I don’t feel different,” said Fluttershy

“Good, if you did, that means I have done something wrong,” said Spitfire

“WOOHOO! Well done Fluttershy!” they all said as they hugged her

“Thanks,” said Fluttershy

“It’s amazing, you don’t even look any different,” said Sunset

“What do you mean?” asked Fluttershy

“Despite all of the training, you look just like you did a month ago,” said Twilight

“Yeah, no over bulgy muscles,” said Pinkie

“That’s because of her body structure,” said Spitfire

“What do you mean?” asked Sunset

“Well, as you know, in many cases, when you do exercise your muscles grow and that growth is very showable, but rarely, we get a case of “Phantom-musculature”. It’s so rare that there are only over 100 known cases of people, not Gladiators, that have this ability. What happened is that her muscles don’t grow or stretch to become bulgy, but they gain the strength and power… this is mostly seen in women rather than men, but it’s still rare,” said Spitfire

“Well, well, well, what do you know, you are a rare fighter after all,” said Pinkie

Fluttershy just blushed

“So, are you ready?” asked Spitfire

“Ready for what?” asked Twilight

“To test your new abilities?” said Spitfire

“Sure, what do we have to do?” asked Twilight

“Fight us!” said a female voice

Everyone turned and saw Gilda, Gabby, Greta, and Gisselle, enter the academy pitch

What are you doing here?” asked Sunset

“Well, first I came here to apologize to Fluttershy, what those men did was unacceptable,” said Gilda

“Did you know them personally?” asked Twilight

“No, they were just a bunch of rich kids that bought their way into the team,” said Gilda

“And what happened to them?” asked Pinkie

“Well, they were all charged with assault and were sentenced to 5 years probation, except for Gabriel, it was discovered that he was the mastermind behind everything, he was sentenced to 2 years in prison,” said Gilda

“Also, they were band from any Gladiator based activity, they aren’t even allowed to be near an arena,” said Gabby
“Oh, that’s… reassuring,” said Fluttershy

“And what’s the other reason for your visit?” asked Twilight

“To test your new abilities and see if you have gotten better or worst,” said Gilda

“So wait, you came here to spar with us?” asked Sunset

Gilda nodded

“Let’s do this,” said Sunset as she ran to the field

ON THE FIELD

Gilda 92 OVR

Gabby 88 OVR Giselle 87 OVR

Greta 86 OVR

Pinkie? OVR Sunset? OVR

Twilight? OVR

Fluttershy? OVR

“The first team to be wiped out wins, no dangerous punches though,” said Gilda

“READY! SET! FIGHT!!!” said Spitfire

And the fight began, but it didn’t last long, Twilight, Sunset, and Pinkie dashed forward to fight Gabby, Greta, and Gisselle, but Fluttershy remained static.

Gilda took advantage of this and quickly aided her teammates, punching Twilight’s, Pinkie’s and Sunset’s breakfasts out

“I surrender!” said Fluttershy as she raised her hands

“Point for Gilda,” said Spitfire

“Ok, a first loss is understandable, they’re pros with years of practice… round 2?” asked Twilight

“Bring it,” said Sunset and Pinkie as they got into position.

For the next 2 and a half hours Twilight, Pinkie, and Sunset, got punched, pummeled, kicked, and thrown around the field, while Fluttershy spent the whole time running away from the fight

“OUFF! They all said when they landed on the ground again

“Well, 99 defeats are still understandable,” said Twilight

“Sorry I don’t share your optimism,” said Sunset

“I think I can taste my Spine,” said Pinkie

“Are you girls ok?” asked Fluttershy

“I don’t think so,” said Sunset

“Fluttershy, it’s your job to avoid that we get bit up so badly,” said Twilight

“I’m sorry girls, I just get too scared when I see fighting,” said Fluttershy as she knelt down next to the girls

“Fluttershy, everyone has their fears, but standing up to them makes us all stronger,” said Twilight

“I know Twilight, I just freeze up,” said Fluttershy

“You know Fluttershy, maybe there is a way for you to gain confidence,” said Sunset

“How?” asked Fluttershy

“Just imagine us as cute animals that are about to get killed or injured,” said Sunset

“Are you sure that’s going to work?” said Pinkie

“Hey, I imagine my rivals as horrifying creatures, helping me fight off my fear of monsters,” said Sunset

“That might work,” said Twilight

“Well, there is only one way to find out,” said Sunset as they all got up and got into position

“Round 100, READY! SET! FIGHT!” said Spitfire

And once again they were off, Fluttershy however, remained static again

“Imagine… imagine… imagine…” She kept saying, she then looked at the battle happening and in her mind, Twilight turned into a puppy, Sunset, turned into a pussycat, and Pinkie turned into a bunny

When she saw this and the fact that these cute animals were about to get injured, she felt something come over her, a massive surge on adrenaline or energy, and she quickly lunged forward.

Pinkie was having trouble keeping up with Gabby, who was starting to gain the upper hand when Gabby finally broke through Pinkie’s defense and was about to deliver the knockout blow, she was suddenly hit in the stomach so hard that she flew straight through the wall of the female Wonderbolt Barracks.

Pinkie looked up and saw Fluttershy, her eyes filled with rage, Fluttershy then turned and dashed to help Sunset, using her body to send Gisselle flying to the outer wall of the field falling unconscious

Then, she quickly headed over to Twilight, and with a power dive, landed on top of Greta creating a crater around her now unconscious body.

‘Wow, Fluttershy, that was awesome!” said Twilight

“Thanks, but it’s not over yet,” she said as she turned to face Gilda

“FINALLY! A WORTHY ADVERSARY!” Gilda screamed

“LET’S SEE WHO IS VICTORIOUS!” said Fluttershy as she lunged full speed at Gilda

Gilda followed and lunged at Fluttershy

When the two of them met in the center of the field a massive cloud of dust raised, blinding everyone.

Moments later when the cloud dissipated everyone noticed both Fluttershy and Gilda standing opposite to each other, panting heavily

“You said… your name was Fluttershy, right?” said Gilda

“Yes,” said Fluttershy

“I’m sorry… for doubting… your resolve,” said Gilda as she fell to the ground

“VICTORY FOR CANTERLOT!” said Spitfire

“Well done Fluttershy!” everyone said as they ran up to her

“Thanks, the idea you gave me, really worked,” said Fluttershy

“Well, let’s make it official,” said Twilight

“Make what official?” asked Fluttershy

“Your presence in the new Canterlot Gladiator team,” said Twilight giving Fluttershy a contract to sign and the chart to complete

Fluttershy signed the contract and then proceed to complete the chart

Name Age Height Measurements position

Twilight Sparkle 27 5’7” (1.68M) 37 - 28 - 40 Field General
Sunset Shimmer 27 5’9” (1.75M) 39 - 31 - 40 Paladin
Pinkie Pie 27 5’8” (1.72M) 40 - 31 - 42 Winger/Tank
Fluttershy 26 5’6” (1.67M) 45 - 30 - 39 Defender

“Well it’s official, welcome to the team,” said Twilight

“Thank you,” said Fluttershy

“Where should we go now?” asked Sunset

“Manechester, it sounds like a good place to go, and it’s not that far from here,” said Twilight

“I’ll go buy the train tickets, express train,” said Pinkie as she sprinted away faster than possible

“Well, girls, well done, and good luck with your team,” said Spitfire

“No, thank you for the hospitality,” said Twilight

“Oh yeah, before you go… here,” said Spitfire as she handed them some papers

“What are these?” asked Twilight

“Well, the general took the liberty of giving you a test to see what your overalls are,” said Spitfire

“91!!!” said Sunset reading her paper

“92!!!” said Twilight

“90!!!” said Fluttershy

“What’s going on?” asked Pinkie Pie coming back into the frame with the tickets

“We just got new Overalls,” said Sunset handing Pinkie hers

“91, not bad, I like it,” said Pinkie

“Well, I must get back to training see you girls later,” said Spitfire

“GASP, WE SHOULD HAVE A “CONGRATULATIONS FOR THE NEW RANKS” PARTY!!!!” said Pinkie

“I don’t think that is possible, our train leaves in 4 hours,” said Sunset

“Oh dear, we have to help you pack Fluttershy,” said Twilight

“And find someone to look after your friend's apartment,” said Sunset

“Oh don’t worry, I already took care of that… well my animal friends did,” said Fluttershy

Just then a big Grizzly bear appeared behind the girls making them jump and run for their lives

“Thank you, Brutus… Oh don’t worry they’ll be fine,” said Fluttershy as she hugged the bear

“Wait, he is your friend?” asked the girls coming out of hiding

“Yup, this is Brutus, he is an old honey bear and a very good friend of mine,” said Fluttershy as the bear waved, hugged Fluttershy again and left.

“Well, that’s a relief,” said Sunset

“Should we head to the train station?” said Fluttershy

“Sure,” said Twilight as the color came back to her skin.

And with that, the girls headed to the train station to continue their adventure.