GLADIATORS

“So, Discord called you and told you about this 1st division gladiator, who is willing to try US out?” said Sunset Shimmer

“Yup, and he also told me that she was a former S-division Gladiator,” said Twilight as all of the girls got out of the train.

“And you are positive that she will be willing to join us,” said Sunset Shimmer

“Well, we just won the Appleoosa Gladiator tournament, apart of the Canterlot Gladiator Smash brawl, and defeated Applejack’s team of 1st and 2nd division gladiators, there isn’t really anything tougher,” said Twilight

“Thanks for the compliment, sugarcube, but… there are many things harder than that,” said Applejack

“Like?” asked Twilight

“Giving birth,” said Pinkie

“Gladiator related darling,” said Rarity

“Oh… I have nothing,” said Pinkie

“Well, you have the mock battle we had in manehattan,” said Rarity

“Oh, yeah! I’m still sore from that, and it was almost a month ago,” said Sunset Shimmer

“Girls… uhm… Mareami is known for having a very tough Gladiator competition,” said Fluttershy

“Oh yeah, your right, what do they call it…?” said Twilight

“The pyramid,” said Fluttershy

“Pyramid? Never heard of it,” said Sunset

“Yeah, what is it like?” asked Rarity

“Well, the pyramid is a form of Gladiator fighting, where the challenge is to defeat all of the teams to be crowned champion,” said Fluttershy

“Isn’t that like a normal competition, Hon?” asked Applejack

“No… unlike normal competitions, in this one, Gladiator teams are already chosen, and the challenging team has to defeat them all to win and obtain a monetary settlement,” explained Fluttershy

“Wow, Shy, How do you know so much about this?” asked Twilight

“Remember that I told you about the friend I was housesitting for? Well, she is a Gladiator here in Mareami,” said Fluttershy

“Wow, she has to be really good,” said Sunset

“I believe she is, we never talked about Gladiator stuff before, because I wasn’t one and didn’t feel attracted to this,” said Fluttershy

“But, you knew she was a gladiator?” asked Rarity

“Of course, I went to see her fight once, many years ago, she was good,” said Fluttershy

“So, I assume she was born in Cloudsdale, just like you?” said Applejack

“Yup,” said Fluttershy

“And if you say she is good, is it safe to assume she represents Cloudsdale, right?” asked Twilight

“No… well, at least I’ve never seen her play with Cloudsdale, she’s been alternating residence between Mareami and Cloudsdale for 5 years now,” said Fluttershy

“And why’s that?” asked Applejack

“Don’t know, never had the urge to ask her, it’s her private life,” said Fluttershy

“Of course you didn’t!” they all thought

After bending a curve, the girls noticed the massive city arena

“So, you think you’ll see your friend again?” asked Twilight

“Hopefully, but, I’m sure she’ll be surprised to see me fighting as a Gladiator now,” said Fluttershy.

The girls walked towards the arena admiring the gladiator-style decorations

“Look, that’s an image of Onyx “Bone Collector” Bolt, he is one of the greatest rogue fighters ever,” said Twilight as she saw a poster of him in a store

“And that’s Apple Justice, top 3 Field Generals of all time, many of his tactics are still impossible to stop… to bad he died young,” said Applejack as she saw another poster

“Oh, and look at that armor, it’s so… classy and elegant, who is she?” asked Rarity

“That’s... Princess Celestia, when she was still a Gladiator,” said Twilight Sparkle

“She looks mighty young in that image,” said Applejack

“Well, she was around 23,” said Twilight

“Then the man behind her is…” said Sunset

“That’s her husband, Discord… and adding the woman at the right… that’s Princess Luna… They created “The Royal Guard” they were undefeated for almost 2 years,” said Twilight

“That’s my mom and dad! Cloudy Quartz and Igneous Rock Pie… I didn’t know they were gladiators!” said Pinkie Pie

“Creators of the Boulder Dash, your parents are credited with creating one of the best moves ever,” said Twilight

“And look, there’s Granny Smith… wow, she was young in that picture,” said Applejack pointing to at another Poster

“Agreed, she looks around… her mid-20s,” said Twilight

The girls continued walking a bit more, until they noticed a wall-sized poster of a gladiator team.

“Who are they?” asked Sunset

“Beats me... “ said Twilight

“Parka!” said Fluttershy

“What?” they all said

“It says it right here… “In loving memory of the greatest team to ever exist “Parka” and it’s Members Master Metal, Onyx Night, Mystic Dusk, Crimson Mark, Dead Breeze, Rainboom, and… Grim,” they all read

“Wait a minute, that’s the Gladiator we came to meet!” said Twilight pointing to Rainboom

“Really?!!!... but is says here that the members are dead,” said Sunset

“I think they mean the team, darling,” said Rarity

“Oh… yeah, guess you’re right,” said Sunset

For whatever reason, the girls kept looking at the hooded, skull-mask wearing, member of the team, as if, on some sort of trance

“Man, ah’ve got to admit, that Grim guy sure is scary,” said Applejack

“I know right, I wouldn’t like to fight him,” said Pinkie Pie

“I have to admit, I find he’s or her style rather… interesting,” said Rarity

“What do you mean?” asked Twilight

“He doesn't seem to be wearing anything other that a simple hoodie, no armor whatsoever, I believe that is against the rules,” said Rarity

“Years ago, it wasn’t, they changed the rules after the S-division was terminated,” said Sunset

“Oh… anyway, let’s go, it’s almost noon, and I don’t want to be late to meet this Rainboom woman, she seems… intimidating,” said Twilight as they all turned to look at the image of the hasmask wearing gladiator, and walked away, except for Fluttershy, something about her seemed familiar.

A FEW MINUTES LATER

“Well, here we are, this is the arena lobby, but, where is she?” asked Twilight

Using the newly acquired idea of how she looked, the girls scouted the area.

After a few seconds of nothing, Twilight began to feel nervous

“Did we arrive too late?” she asked

“Twilight, if anything we arrived 20 minutes early,” said Sunset Shimmer showing Twilight her cell phone screen.

“But, what if she was testing us, to see if we are punctual, and was expecting us 30 minutes before the agreed time?” said Twilight panicking

“Is the time thing common or?” asked Applejack

“It appears so,” We’ve only known each other for about over a month,” said Rarity

“2 months in my case,” said Pinkie pie

“1 and a half,” said Fluttershy

“Wow, and I thought Granny Smith was crazy about punctuality,” said Applejack

Just then, the girls heard an argument nearby and walked over to see what was going on

“WE QUIT!!” said a tall muscular Gladiator

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU QUIT?!” said a female voice

“YOU PROMISED US GLORY, AND YET, WE’VE ATTEMPTED THIS STUPID CHALLENGE OVER 10 TIMES AND WE CAN’T GET OVER THE 5TH STAGE!” said the Gladiator

“AND YOU’RE EXPECTING ME TO CARRY YOU TO THE TOP?! I’M SORRY TO TELL YOU SKIPPER, I HAVE NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR LACK OF TALENT AND AMBITION!!” said the woman

“LACK OF AMBITION?! LACK OF AMBITION!!!! BITCH, MY TEAM AND i HAVE MORE AMBITION THAN YOU IN ALL OF YOUR BODY!!!” said Skipper

“AND YET YOU HAVEN’T DEMONSTRATED ANY OF IT,” said the woman

“WE LET YOU JOIN, BECAUSE WE THOUGHT THAT WITH YOUR EXPERIENCE, YOU COULD GUIDE US TO THE TOP, BUT WE WERE WRONG!!! YOUR OLD SCHOOL IDEAS ARE NOTHING BUT TRASH!!” said Skipper

“AND YOUR “NEWER” IDEAS, MADE YOU LOSE IN THE FIRST ROUND WHAT...1...2… 30 TIMES!! I’M NOT THE PROBLEM HERE, IT’S YOU!!!!” said the woman

“YOU KNOW, WE’VE HAD IT WITH YOU!!! WHEN WE REALIZED YOU ARE A FORMER MEMBER OF PARKA, AND A FORMER CLOSE FRIEND OF SOMEONE LIKE GRIM, WE THOUGHT WE HAD HIT THE JACKPOT, BUT, IT SEEMS WE WERE WRONG!!!” said Skipper

“YOU LEAVE HIM OUT OF THIS!!!” she screamed

“OR WHAT?!!! No matter what you do, you will never escape his shadow, or be at his level… no wonder he abandoned all of you… and keep your money, we don’t need your charity” said Skipper as he walked away, leaving her standing there, her fist clenched tight, her face red with anger.

“Uhm… ms. Rainboom?” asked Twilight

“WHAT?!!!” she said looking at Twilight making her jump back in fear.

That was when she realized her reaction, and turned around

“I’m… I’m sorry about that… I just had a very stressful conversation,” she said

“It’s… it’s ok,” said Twilight

“So, what can I do for ya?” she asked with a smile

“Uhm, we’re… we’re the team that was going to meet with you,” said Twilight

“Oh, you are? Wow, you’re early,” she said

“We told you!!!” exclaimed the rest of the members

“Anyway… hi, my name is Rainbow Dash, but as I assume you know, everyone calls me Rainboom, nice to meet you all…” she said as she turned to see all of them, freezing as soon as her eyes made contact with Fluttershy’s

“FLUTTERSHY?!!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?!!!” she screamed

“THAT IS MY LINE, YOU NEVER SAID YOU WERE IN THE S-DIVISION!!!” said Fluttershy

“YOU NEVER TOLD ME YOU WERE A GLADIATOR!!!” said Rainbow Dash

“It’s actually a long story,” said Twilight

“Well, you better start talking… What was your name again?” asked Rainbow Dash

“Twilight Sparkle,”

“Sunset Shimmer,”

“Pinkie Pie,”

“Rarity Belle”

“Applejack”

“Ok, now that that is out of the way, the story,” said Rainbow Dash

Twilight and the rest of the girls explained everything that had lead to that particular moment, not leaving a single detail out

“And the man that did that to her, where are they?” asked Rainbow Dash

“In jail, not even their families fortunes could save them,” said Sunset Shimmer

“Well, thanks for saving her, she’s my only friend,” said Rainbow Dash

“No problem,” said Twilight

“So, you’re looking for someone to join the royal team, right?” said Rainbow Dash

“Yeah, are you interested?” asked Twilight

“Well, I know for a fact that I will never be called to play with Cloudsdale,” said Rainbow Dash

“Why?” asked Twilight

“They said I have no self control, that I was a liability,” said Rainbow Dash

“Wow, that’s harsh, did they forget you are a 1st division, scratch that, that you were an S-division gladiator?!” said Sunset

“I think they said that because I was one,” said Rainbow Dash

“Higher expectations?” asked Twilight

“Maybe, or they just didn’t want to be outshadowed by me,” said Rainbow Dash

“So, do you want to join us?” asked Twilight

“Listen… Twilight… you gals aren’t the first ones to ask me to join a team, world cup or not… I’m not just going to join all willy nilly, you have to show me what you’re made of,” said Rainbow Dash

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

Rainbow Dash looked at them and then looked at the TV and smiled

“Make a temporal team with me… and conquer the pyramid, if we do, then I’ll join you,” said Rainbow Dash pointing at the TV

“And once again, the Pyramid has stood in place, with “Skorn” defeating “Elevation” and securing their position in the 5th stage of the pyramid, now, who will reach the top stage and dethrone “The Prime” from the top of the pyramid, a position they’ve held for almost 4 years now,” said the TV announcer

The girls then turned to look at Rainbow Dash

“So, what do you say?” she asked

“Do you even think we can achieve that?” asked Twilight

“That’s my challenge, take it or leave it,” said Rainbow Dash

Twilight turned to look at her friends, and then back at Rainbow Dash

“Alright, we’ll do it,” said Twilight

“Great, now, follow me,” said Rainbow Dash as she headed towards a door

“Where are we going?” asked Twilight

“To the starting line,” said Rainbow Dash as she opened the door to a roaring crowd cheering as another team was being kicked out of the first step

“Wait! You want us to start now?” asked Twilight

“Of course… listen Twilight, the world cup is… 3 months away, if you fail here, that still gives you enough time to find someone else, and impress the Princess,” said Rainbow Dash as she finished the registration

“But, we don’t know the rules of this,” said Twilight

“Simple, 7 a side teams fight for dominance of the stage, and are only allowed to continue to the next one if they defeat all of the members of the previous team,” said Rainbow Dash

“Without a break in between?” asked Sunset

“Nope… that’s the real Gladiator way, during the wars, you didn’t have a chance to rest, so you had to always be ready to fight, that’s why many gladiators love this challenge, it reminds them of the past… plus, you girls can use this as an exercise for the world cup,” said Rainbow Dash.

“Well, she does have a point,” said Twilight

“Ok then, Twilight, I see you’re a field general, so, I’ll leave that 2 you,” said Rainbow Dash

“Uhm… ok,” she said as they followed Rainbow Dash to the starting line.

“Wait, what are the rules of this?” asked Sunset Shimmer

“7 a side teams, fight for dominance of the stage, bla, bla, bla, we win when we eliminate all of the members of the opposing team and conquer the stage,” said Rainbow Dash

“Ok, sounds easy enough,” said Twilight as they got into position

“And we are back, and it looks like Rainboom has found herself a new team, just mere seconds after her last team was eliminated and kicked her out, will she be able to finally reach the top on her… how many times has she actually tried this?... 72 times?!!!” well… uhm… 73rd time’s the charm they say… anyway, their first rivals will be “The TIGER SQUADRON!!!” said the anchor as the members of that team walked out into the stage

“Wait! You again?! Don’t you ever give up?” said the leader of the team called Moonshadow Storm

“Are you still sour about me helping you up and kicking your butts when I changed teams?” asked Rainbow Dash

“We trusted you, and yet, you changed teams the same day! Where is the loyalty you claim to have?” he said

“I am loyal… just, not to you,” said Rainbow Dash

“Well, don’t expect us to make it easy for you,” he said as they entered an inverted V formation

“Ok, Twilight, first call, what do we do?” asked Rainbow Dash

“Demon dash,” said Twilight almost immediately

“Good call,” said Rainbow Dash as she got into position on the wing

“3...2...1… GO!!!!” said the anchor

As soon as the word was said, all of the girls charged at the opposing team

“Ah! Demon Dash, that’s not going to…” he wasn’t even able to finish his sentence when the girls, using their magic or physical strength, bulldozed over them and sent them flying over the edge of the stage into a safe pit.

“Well done Twilight!” Everyone said before turning and seeing that Rainbow Dash was already climbing the next flight of stairs towards the next stage.

“Don’t stay too behind!!” said Rainbow Dash

“Rainbow, wait!!” said Twilight as they all ran after her.

But, Rainbow Dash didn’t, as soon as she reached the entrance of the next stage, she immediately charged the members of the next team (The Whispers).

She was able to successfully eliminate 2 of them by attacking them by surprise, but after that she began having trouble fighting 5 people at the same time.

They were pummeling her left and right, until they all heard

“LIGHT FLARE!!”

They all turned to look at the owner of the voice, only to be hit by a bright beam of light, and to then be shoved off the stage.

“Thanks Twilight, Come on!!!” said Rainbow Dash as she got up and headed to the next stage.

“Rainbow Dash wait, what about the strategy?!!!” said Twilight

“I can’t hear you, keep up!!!!” was all Rainbow Dash said as she continued running up the stairs.

“Rainbow Dash, stop!!!” said Sunset Shimmer as she and Pinkie Pie rushed after her.

“Man, this girl is whack… something’s up, ah can feel it!” thought Applejack as she began to climb the steps behind the rest of the girls.

Just seconds later, Rainbow Dash reached the top of the staircase, and charged the following team “Avians” who easily avoided her charge and countered sending her flying towards the edge, only for Pinkie to pop out of nowhere and catch her before she fell off.

Then the avians decided to attack the 2 of them, but were unable to reach them thanks to Sunset Shimmer using her defensive abilities to protect them while Pinkie helped Rainbow Dash back onto the stage.

Seconds later, the rest of the girls arrived and quickly began to spar with the rivaling team.

Sunset Shimmer fighting and eliminating Ruby Dusk, Pinkie, who left Rainbow Dash behind, punching Water Snowflake so hard she flew straight out of the stage and onto the medical center, Sunset Shimmer spartan kicking Twinkle Charm off the stage, before shoving Velvet Love straight into Applejack’s way and body check her off the stage.

They seemed to be doing a great job at first, but then, the remaining members of the Avians, decided to counterstrike by using magic, forcing the girl to retreat behind Twilight and Rarity as they created a magic shield to protect them.

Unfortunately, they didn’t realize that Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were not behind them, since Rainbow Dash was still trying to regain her breath, and Fluttershy was acting as a human shield absorbing the attacks.

But, Shadow Light, also noticed this and charged the pair, without giving them time to react properly as she lunged at them.

Fluttershy, in a desperate move, shoved Rainbow Dash to the side as she fell to the floor hoping to avoid the attack, which she was lucky enough to do, plus, it also gave her enough time to kick Shadow in the gut and send her over the edge.

“Thanks… thanks Shy,” said Rainbow Dash

“It’s ok, but, the girls need help,” said Fluttershy, pointing at her friends who were fighting their way closer to the remaining members of Avians

“You’re right… time to end this,” said Rainbow Dash as she got up and charged at the last 2 members, knocking them out of the stage in the process and dashing up the stairs in the same move.

“COME ON! WE’RE ALMOST HALFWAY!!!!” she screamed

“RAINBOW DASH, STOP!!!!” screamed Twilight as they chased her again.

Once again, Rainbow Dash did not wait for the rest of the girls, but did, however, change her approach against the next team, since she knew it was a much stronger side.

Instead of running straight to them, she decided to run in a zig zag way, trying to catch them off guard.

At first it worked, and she was able to make some successful hits, but none of them strong enough to knock them out or over the edge, and again, she was stopped and almost shoved out off the stage, if it weren’t for Fluttershy catching her and anchoring her feet to the ground avoiding the fall.

“SIGMA FORMATION, RICOCHET!!!” screamed Twilight as all of the girls appeared and formed a shield around Rainbow Dash, challenging the opposing team to come near them.

And they took the bait, Crimson Flash, leader of the team “Rogues” was the first one to attack, rushing towards Applejack.

A deadly mistake

Applejack easily stood her ground and roundhouse kicked him all the way to the otherside of the arena, from which he never got up.

Then came Rapid Arrow, she charged Sunset Shimmer, and was met with the same fate, except, Sunset Shimmer actually punched him and then tripped him down the stairs the girls had just climbed, before falling off the side and out of battle.

2 of the remaining members, Swift Spirit and Lunar Light, seeing that there was no way to rush them and open their defence, decided to flank them and attack at the same time, only to be stopped by Rarity and Twilight, who used their magic to make their own abilities work against them, and slip out of the stage.

Finally, the last member of the team, Winter Bristle, decided to attack by jumping over, the line and catching them by surprise, but just as he was able to clear Applejack and Sunset Shimmer, he was met in the air by none other than Pinkie Pie, who punched down with such strength, he actually fell through the floor of the stage.

“WOOHOO!!! That was epic!!!” screamed Pinkie as she landed

“Yeah… anyway, Rainbow Dash, you have to wait for us to… WHERE DID SHE GO?!!!” asked Twilight as they all turned and saw Rainbow dash already climbing the steps to the next stage

“Seriously with this one!” said Sunset as she began to chase her.

“Twilight wait,” said Applejack

“What is it Applejack?” asked Twilight

“There’s something fishy goin’ on ’ere… there’s something about her that makes me believe she ain’t worth the trouble,” said Applejack

“Are you positive?” asked Twilight

“Ah know ahm new to the team, but trust me, she seems… desperate, like if there’s something goin’ on behind the scenes,” said Applejack

“Thanks, I’ll keep it in mind,” said Twilight as she and Applejack began to climb the stairs.

BUt when they got to the top of that staircase, they saw that all of the girls had stopped in their tracks, including Rainbow Dash

“What’s going on?” asked Twilight

“There is no one up here,” said Rarity

“Of course they are, I can smell them,” said Rainbow Dash

“Even if they are, we can’t fight something we can’t see,” said Fluttershy

“Then allow us to make things easier for you,” said a voice the girls remembered very well.

And with that various smoke bombs exploded and out walked 7 gladiators Rainbow Dash knew too well

“I should’ve known you guys were the ones guarding the 5th stage,” said Rainbow Dash

“Yeah, once again, thanks for getting us up here… but don’t think we’ll let a failed S-class like you pass,” said Skipper

“Hey, ain’t that the fool that was harassing you back at the lobby?” said Applejack

“Yeah, this is his team “Riot”... and I see you replaced me rather quickly too,” said Rainbow Dash

“Yeah, it wasn’t that tough a decision, my little brother is better than you in every way,” said Skipper.

“Well, we’ll see about that soon, won’t we?” said Rainbow Dash

“That we will… EVERYONE, PHANTOM FORMATION!!!” screamed Skipper as his whole team got into position

“Oh, that’s a good one, but easily broken, all you have to do is…” Twilight began

“ATTACK!!!!!!” screamed Rainbow Dash as she charged Skipper, only for his teammates to block her path and send her flying back towards her team.

“Rainbow Dash, listen to me! If you want to defeat them, you have to…” Twilight said but was interrupted by Rainbow Dash

“Save it princess, this is personal!” said Rainbow Dash as she once again made the same move with the same outcome.

“Rainbow Dash… listen!!!” Twilight said

“SHUT UP!!” was all she said before she got up and attacked again, only for Skipper to avoid her attack and send her flying towards the edge at the other side of the stage.

“Who’s next?” he asked

None of the girls moved

“Girls, quick, get into a Spartan…” Twilight began to say only for Skipper’s voice to ring in her right ear.

“Too slow,” he whispered as he appeared next to her and charged towards Pinkie pie hitting her on her jaw and sending her flying out of the stage.

This infuriated Applejack who quickly roundhoused Skipper in the gut and sent him flying towards the other side of the stage.

He was about to fall off the stage, but 2 of his teammates, Steel Victory and Solar Comet, jumped in front of him and used their shields to cushion his fall and keep him on the stage, as they fell off it.

“CHARGE!!!!” screamed another member of the team as Riot charged and surrounded Twilight and her friends.

Fights broke out all around the stage

Sunset Shimmer fighting against Thunder Snow, Applejack vs Celestial Moon, and Fluttershy vs Lunar Rose

For a few minutes it seemed that the girls had the upper hand, especially because of Rarity’s and Twilight’s help.

But it came to the point that Riot began using the girls inexperienced to gain the upper hand.

First, Thunder Snow decided to dodge Sunset Shimmer’s attacks while getting closer to Lunar Rose and Fluttershy; and when they finally got within reach of each other, both Lunar Rose and Thunder Snow jumped out of the way, only to cause Fluttershy’s hammer to collide with Sunset Shimmer’s sword and disarm her.

“I’m so sorry Sunset!” said Fluttershy

“It’s… LOOK OUT!!!” was all Sunset Shimmer could say before Lunar Rose punched her in her jaw and sent her over the edge

“SUNSET!!!” screamed Fluttershy as she karate kicked Lunar Rose so hard she flew to the other side of the stage and through the staircase, leaving her unconscious as she fell off the stage.

Fluttershy turned and saw Applejack struggling to contain Celestial Moon, and was about to go and help her when…

“Where you think you’re going shorty?!!” Came Thunder Snow as he kicked her on her back, causing her to lose balance and fall of the stage

“AND THAT’S HOW IT’S DONE, BITCHES!!!!!” Thunder Snow mocked Fluttershy

“ah’d take that back if ah’d were you,” said Applejack

Thunder Snow didn’t even have time to turn when Applejack, once again, roundhouse kicked him in the gut and off the stage.

“You never call a woman that… homeboy!” said Applejack as she saw Thunder Snow fall to the safe foam at the bottom of the stage.

“That’s how it’s done,” she said with a smirk

But her concentration was broken when she heard a scream behind her.

She turned just in time to see Rarity being kicked off by High Jump, as he turned to help Celestial Moon, who was trying to break through Twilight’s magic shield.

With his added strength, Twilight’s shield began to crack

“Damn it,” she said as she tried her best to keep the shield from breaking

“Goodnight, girly,” said Celestial Moon

“Nothing personal,” said High Jump

As they prepared to give the final strike onto Twilight’s shield, they heard loud footsteps coming towards them.

This caused them to look to their side only for both of them to be tackled by Applejack, as they fell off the stage with her.

“APPLEJACK!!!” screamed Twilight

“DON’T LET’ER DO ANYTHING FOOLISH!!!” was all she said before hitting the foam pit

At that Twilight got up and looked at Rainbow Dash

She was trying her best to get up from the floor, so Twilight rushed towards her

“Are you ok?” she asked as she helped her up

“Yeah… just having trouble catching my breath… I forgot this brute was strong,” said Rainbow Dash

“If you had waited for me to tell you how to fight it you would have avoided all of the pain,” said Twilight

“Yeah, yeah… so… how can we defeat someone far stronger than us without paying attention to the disadvantage?” asked Rainbow Dash

“Simple really…” was all Twilight was able to say before a fist met the right side of her face and sent her over the edge.

“Oops, I did it again,” mocked Skipper as he shoved Rainbow Dash to the ground

“You… that was a cheap shot!” said Rainbow Dash

“Well… it worked,” said Skipper

“Where… where is that honor you were talking about so much?” said Rainbow Dash

“It died, the moment we let you into the team… for 1 year, you tortured us, disregarded our feelings… treated us like crap… forced us to take on a challenge mere minutes after suffering terrible blows and bodily injuries, and called us weak… useless… FAILURES… well, now, I will take revenge for what you did, for the suffering you inflicted on us, but don’t worry, we’ll still use all of the tactics you showed us, so… thank you,” said Skipper as he prepared himself to crush Rainbow Dash’s head when his body was surrounded by a purple light and his body began to cumbulce.

After the electric hook subsided, Skipper’s body went limp and fell over the edge of the stage

“... you set up a trap,” said Twilight as she lowered her staff.

Immediately the crowd roared as Twilight helped Rainbow Dash up.

However that line and subsequent action triggered a memory for Rainbow Dash

“We’re at a disadvantage, who are we going to defeat them?” she said

“Simple…” said Grim as he was punched in the left side of his face and stumbolded over the edge

Rainbow Dash then turned to face the last member of the opposing team

“Show’s over girl,” he said as he was about to charge her only for his body spontaneously combust and then be shoved over board.

Rainbow Dash looked at the scene in confusion, until Grim appeared from between his flames and say

“... we set up a trap,” as he helped her up.

“AND WITH A MAGIESTIC USE OF SHADOW PORTAL, TWILIGHT SPARKLE IS ABLE TO DEFEAT SKIPPER TO WIN OVER THE 5TH STAGE!!!... unfortunately, here is where the show ends for tonight,” said the anchor

“WHY?!!!!” asked Applejack as she end the girls teleported back onto the stage

“No one has ever gone past the 5th stage so the floors upward are actually unattended today, but do not worry, the teams in charge of those stages will be here tomorrow to finish the fight,” the anchor explained.

“Well, maybe this’ll give us enough time to come up with a plan, what do you say Rainbow Dash?” asked Twilight

But as the girls turned to face her, they realized that once again, she was missing in action.

After a few seconds of looking around, they noticed that she was flying towards the entrance of the arena

This surprised the girls a lot, and after using teleportation, they were finally able to catch up with her.

“Hey, Rainbow Dash, aren’t we going to talk strategy?” asked Pinkie Pie

“Get lost!” was all that came out of Rainbow Dash’s mouth

“Excuse us?!” said Sunset Shimmer

“LEAVE!! I’m not going to join co… cheaters,” said Rainbow Dash

That comment surprised everyone, but Applejack was able to pinpoint something in that outburst.

“What are you talking about?” asked Twilight

“That final move, you had no right to cop… use it,” said Rainbow Dash

“Again, What?” asked Sunset Shimmer

“I don’t work with c… cheaters,” said Rainbow Dash as she began walking away “I don’t think this is going to work,” she said will walking away

“HOLD IT RIGHT THERE!!!” said Applejack as she threw a trash can in front of Rainbow Dash’s way

“You want something… cowgirl?” asid Rainbow Dash as she turned ready to fight with Applejack

“Yeah… I want you to be honest,” said Applejack as she cracked her knuckles

“Excuse me?” asked Rainbow Dash

“You think you’re so clever, but I’ve caught up to you,” said Applejack

“What are you talking about?” said Rainbow Dash

“Drop the act… there’s more to this than a test, isn’t it?” said Applejack

“Wha?” said Rainbow Dash

“The way you fought your way up the stairs, with such desperation, it seemed like you were…” Applejack said

“Acting like a real Gladiator?” interrupted Rainbow Dash

“No… trying to accomplish something,” Applejack finished

Rainbow Dash remained silent

“All throughout today, ah’ve been adding all of the dots, the exuberant amount of times you’ve taken the same challenge, the amount of teams you’ve had, your disregard for your teammates, for a plan, what Skipper said before Twilight took him out… they way you corrected yourself a second ago where you changed the words “Copycat” for “Cheaters”, “copy” for “use it”, or “copiers'' for “cheaters'' again… you better start singin’ like a bord our we’re out of ‘ere,” said Applejack

Rainbow Dash, however, remained silent, not even making eye contact

“You see, ah told you she wasn’t worth it, let’s don’t waste our time with her and leave,” said Applejack

“No… everyone has a reason, a story to tell, let’s hear her out,” said Twilight Sparkle.

This exchange, once again caused Rainbow Dash to have a memory.

SOMETIME AGO

“... YOU SEE, I TOLD SHE ISN’T GOOD ENOUGH, SHE’S A LIABILITY, I AM NOT GOING TO GO OUT ONTO THAT STAGE AND FIGHT WITH HER AS MY COVER!!!” said Mystic Dusk

“Sorry Love, I’m going to have to agree with Mystic,” said Master Metal

“Wait!... stop,” said Grim

“Grim, this is weird, you rarely talk… and usually it’s a taunt,” said Master Metal

“Well… I believe that this time I have to say my peace… I wouldn't kick her out,” said Grim

“Why?” asked Metal master

“She has a reason for being here… a story behind the mask… we should hear her out and then decide,” said Grim as he turned to face her “If she is worth staying in this team,” he finished.

“Applejack, don’t you think you were a little harsh with her?” asked Fluttershy

“She is a grown woman, if she is going to call herself a gladiator, then she should also act as one, not play pretend,” said Applejack

“Yeah… but,” said Fluttershy

“BUt nothing, if she’s going to put us all through that and act like if aren’t important, then she’d better give me a reason not to bash her skull in,” said Applejack

“Don’t you think that’s taking it a bit TOO far?” said Fluttershy

“OH COME ON!!! She just put us through hell and didn’t even thanked us for the help… ah know she’s your friend, but ah assume that she should at least care about you and not act as a little b… why is she cryin’?” said Applejack as she turned to face Rainbow Dash

The girls immediately moved their line of sight from Applejack to Rainbow Dash, and she was indeed crying.

“Dash? Something wrong?” asked Fluttershy as she got close to her childhood friend

“She’s right,” Rainbow Dash whispered

“What?” asked Fluttershy

“She’s right!... there IS more to it… but…” Rainbow Dash said between sobbs

“Well, ah suggest you stop cryin’ and start talkin” said Applejack

“Right… it all started 5 years ago…” said Rainbow Dash

(“That was the last time Parka was together as a team…” said Rainbow Dash)

“... AND WITH A BRILLIANT DISPLAY OF RAW STRENGTH AND STRATEGY, PARKA HAS ONCE AGAIN WON THE GLADIATOR TOURNAMENT FOR THE PERFECT 5!!!” said the anchor as all of the members of Parka celebrated their accomplishment.

“Now we are the greatest team ever!!!” said Metal Master

“Was there ever any doubt?” asked Mystic Dusk as the group walked up the stairs to receive the trophy

(“Wait… why does your story begin with such a happy part?” asked Pinkie Pie)

(“Pinkie, that’s rude” said Twilight)

(“Simple really… That was the last time we were actually happy… everything went downhill from there on,” said Rainbow Dash)

A FEW DAYS LATER

The whole Parka squad had gotten together at “The Dungeon” (the place they used as Base of operations) to discuss strategy.

“So, are we all here?” asked Metal Master

“Everyone except Dead Breeze and Onyx,” said Crimson Mark

“Of course those 2 are late… I understand the marriage situation, but if they are going to be late, they should at least call,” said Metal Master

As if on queue, the 2 missing gladiator entered the room

“NO!!! Why in the world would I even do that?!” said Dead Breeze

“Can’t you stop thinking about yourself for once in your life!” said Onyx

“Funny, ever since I met you I’ve only thought about you and your well being!” said Dead Breeze

“All I want is for us to move to another town, not to quit being Gladiators!” said Onyx

“And I understand that, but… we have responsibilities back here as well,” said Dead Breeze

“AND WE’LL HAVE ANOTHER ONE IN 9 MONTHS!!!” screamed Onyx

This comment caused the whole room to gasp, this made the couple turn and notice their teammates.

“What are you guys doing here?” asked Dead Breeze

“Waiting for y’all, you’re 1 hour late,” said Metal Master

“No we aren’t, you said the meeting was going to be at noon, it’s noon o’clock,” said Dead Breeze

“Time change Dead, it’s spring… anyway, congratulations on the news,” said Grim in his typical emotionless, dead voice

“Oh… uh, thanks,” they said

“Anyway… first I wanted to congratulate everyone of you, this was another extremely successful year,” said Metal Master

“Ah, thanks boss,” said Rainbow Dash

“But I want next year to be one for the history books,” said Master Metal

“Dude, we’ve won every single tournament that exists this side of the country: The Pyramid, Round robin, survival, 1V1, and the eliminator challenge; for the last 5 years without falter, what more do you want us to do?” asked Crimson Mark

“Well, it’s simple… I want to us to become the only team in history to win the same trophies 6 years in a row,” said Master Metal

“I think we’re the only ones to have ever won all of the tournaments… in a year, much less 5,” said Grim

“Yeah, skull head here is right, we’ve got nothing to prove to anyone,” said Mystic

“Well, then challenge ourselves to be better when winning the tournaments next year,” said Master Metal

“Why are you so set on winning the same trophies again… leave the newer generation win something,” said Grim

“Well, truth is, next year will be my last season as a Gladiator, I’ll be retiring to… take on new challenges,” said Master Metal

“Wow, really man?” asked Mystic

“Yeah… I mean, I’m already old, like Grim said, I better give the new generations a chance at glory,” said Master Metal

“Dude you’re not old, you’re only 53,” said Crimson Mark

“I didn’t mean what I said, the way you took it,” said Grim

“It’s ok Grim, plus, you’re right, we have to give the newer generations something to win, so… what do you guys say? One more year?” said Master Metal as he extended his arm forward

“One more year!” said Grim, Rainbow Dash, Crimson Mark, and Mystic Dusk

But soon they noticed that Onyx and Dead Breeze didn’t join the team huddle, so they turned to look at them.

“Something wrong?” asked Master Metal

“Well…” said Dead Breeze

“We’ll be taking a hiatus for being Gladiators for a year or 2 to take care of the baby,” said Onyx

“And… we’ll be moving to Las Pegasus, since… I found employment there as a trainer,” said Dead Breeze

“So… that means you guys are quitting?” said Master Metal

“With a heavy heart,” they both said

“Well… I wish you the best of luck… and please stay in contact,” said Master Metal with a big smile

“Thanks for understanding,” said Onyx as she hugged the man that had been her father figure since she was a little girl in the orphanage.

“We’ll be cheering you on from a far, don’t forget about us,” said Dead Breeze

“We won’t… how’bout a party, to send you off?” said Master Metal

“Thanks” they both said

(“So, wait… you’re blaming all this on a pregnancy?” asked Pinkie Pie)

(“Of course not, that’ll be insensitive… but it was the beginning of the end for Parka,” said Rainbow Dash)

(“Why?” asked Fluttershy)

(“With Onyx and Dead Breeze gone, the team lost one of the fastest winger and strongest Rouges to ever live… and without anyone to replace them, and no one to keep the rookies in check, the team lost all sort of respect for one another,” said Rainbow Dash)

(“That explains a few things but…” said Twilight)

(“But it doesn’t explain your obsession with winning this tournament,” said Sunset Shimmer)

(“Then allow me to explain the reason for my insanity… the promise I made to him,” said Rainbow Dash)

4.5 YEARS AGO

“I CAN’T BELIEVE IT, WE LOOKED LIKE FICKING AMATUERS DURING THE LAST ROUND ROBIN EVENT!!!” said Master Metal

“Hey, it’s not my fault that the 2 new kids are trash!” said Crimson Mark

“Not to mention, you said they were better than Blizzard and Monogram, at least those idiots lasted longer than them fighting,” said Rainbow Dash

“SIGH… I can’t believe it, this year we didn’t win anything at all,” said Master Metal as he sat down on his desk

“Well, we still have next year!... what do you say old timer, one more round?” said Mystic Dusk

Master Metal looked at her and gave out a soft chuckle

“No… my time is up… it’s time for me to hang up my weapons,” said Master Metal

“What about the team?” asked Crimson Mark

“The team is the team...gladiators come and go, but the team will remain… you guys can continue it, you’ve got the potential,” said Master Metal

“No… you are the soul of the team, without you, there is no team at all,” said Mystic

“If you say so,” said Master Metal

“Hey!... where is Grim?” asked Rainbow Dash

“What? missing your boyfriend already?” said Crimson Mark mocking Rainbow Dash

“He is NOT my boyfriend!” said Rainbow Dash

“Oh!... I take it you haven’t heard,” said Master Metal

“Heard what?” asked Rainbow Dash

Master Metal then proceeded to grab a piece of paper and read it

“Dear members of Parka, I know this isn’t the most appropriate way to say goodbye, but please forgive my cowardice, but I fear that if I say this in person, I will have second thought about my decision, and I won’t be able to live with myself if that happened; I just wanted to let everyone know, that I thank you… thank you for showing and having faith in me, even though I was a total unknown when you guys gave me a chance… Thank you for these past 6 awesome years where you showed me what it felt like to have friends, comrades, fans, happiness, and most importantly… a place where I belong… But, I believe my time has come to head elsewhere and meet with my destiny, time for me to explore new paths and claim new victories… I thank you all, and will cheer you all on for the rest of my life, sincerely, Grim,” he said between sobs

As he finished reading Rainbow Dash grabbed her cellphone and ran out of the hideout as fast as she could.

“Come on… come on, pick up!” she said as she ran towards the apartment complex where she and Grim lived

“GRIM!!! WHAT’S THE MEANING OF THIS?!” she said when someone picked up at the otherside of the line

“I was expecting your call,” said Grim

“WHY?!” she said

“My adventure here has come to an end,” said Grim

At that point, Rainbow Dash heard something in the background, something that made her pinpoint his location in a matter of seconds.

It was a train whistle

“Time for me to go,” said Grim

“WAIT!!!” said Rainbow Dash as she used her well-known daredevil speed to get to the train station as soon as possible

“Don’t leave, please!” she said as she ran to the train station

“I’m afraid I have to… my destiny is elsewhere,” said Grim

“But we still need you here!” said Rainbow Dash as she turned a corner and saw the entrance of the train station in the distance

“No you don’t, you guys are still strong, and with a bit more of training, the new recruits will be unstoppable,” said Grim

“I STILL NEED YOU!” she screamed into the phone as she dashed through the station doors

“I’m sorry Ray… But you’re better off without me,” said Grim

At that exact moment Rainbow Dash made it onto the platform and started, frantically, looking around trying to find him before he boarded the train.

Just then she heard the train whistle alerting of the departure of the train, Rainbow Dash turned and saw Grim standing on the last wagon of the train looking back at her.

“GRIM WAIT!!!” she screamed as she ran towards the wagon, but it was no use, the train had left the platform.

“It was nice knowing you, thanks for being a great friend,” said grim, a touch of melancholy in his voice.

“Will I ever see you again?” asked Rainbow Dash trying her hardest not to cry

“When you win the Pyramid challenge again… goodbye Ray,” said Grim, doing a “Peace out” salute and entering the wagon, leaving the city, to never return again or be seen again.

“2 weeks later, the team disbanded, and everyone went on their own ways… I tried to contact Grim many times after that but…” said Rainbow Dash dialing on her phone

“I’m sorry the number you have dialed is no longer assigned, please check the…” said the computer voice as Rainbow Dash hung up

“So, that’s why I want to win this tournament so bad… to see him again,” said Rainbow Dash as she turned to face her team and notice the teary eyes, except for Applejack, she was as stoic as ever.

“Oh, you poor thing… so this is why you didn’t want to move back to Cloudsdale,” said Fluttershy as she walked up and gave her a hug

“I just want to see him again,” said Rainbow Dash as she cried into Fluttershy’s shoulder

“So, wait… your paranoia is all due to an ex-teammate?” said Applejack

“Maybe for you it’s meaningless, but not for me!” said Rainbow Dash

“OH MY GOD!!! This is massive!!” said Fluttershy

“Why, it sound very normal to me,” said Twilight

“No, it’s a massive development, Rainbow Dash… YOU’RE IN LOVE!!!” said Fluttershy as she hugged her BFF

“Wha- wha… why is that so weird?” she said

“You always said you hated romance, and I always thought you swung the other way, OH THIS IS AMAZING!!!” said Fluttershy as she jumped up and down like Pinkie

“Is she ok?” asked Sunset

“Yeah… she just loves romance… a lot… anyway, sorry for how I behaved,” said Rainbow Dash

“It’s ok, we understand,” said Twilight

“Yeah, plus, I’m pretty sure i’d do the same thing if it meant seeing the person I love again,” said Sunset Shimmer

“Going back to the topic at hand… do you still want us to help you?” asked Twilight

Rainbow Dash remained silent for a few seconds, before saying “The real question should be, do you still want me on your team?” she said

Twilight walked up to her, placed her hand on her shoulder and said

“Of course,”

“Thanks… so, any ideas on how to defeat the other teams?” asked Rainbow Dash

“Well, first I have to see them, then I can come up with something,” said Twilight

“Alright then… hey! You gals hungry? I know an awesome Burger Bar down the road, it’s on me!” said Rainbow Dash as she walked away with the rest of the girls in tow.

THE NEXT DAY

“AND WE ARE BACK TO CONTINUE THE WHERE WE LEFT OFF YESTERDAY, WILL RAINBOW DASH AKA RAINBOOM WILL FINALLY BE ABLE TO RECLAIM HER FORMER TEAM’S SPOT AT THE TOP OF THE PYRAMID, OR WILL SHE LOSE AND GIVE UP ONCE AND FOR ALL!!!” said the anchor as the girls climbed the stairs towards the 4th stage

“I have to want you all,” from here on in, these team are going to be harder and tougher

“Don’t worry, we’re prepared for it,” said Twilight

“AND NEXT UP, THEY WILL HAVE TO GO THROUGH “STORMWALKERS”!!!! AND IT’S MEMBERS MISTER BRISTLE, STAR CHASER, STAR VICTORY, TORNADO, HURRICANE, SUN WINGS, AND COMET BALL!!!” said the anchor as the girls reached the top of the stairs and noticed that the other team’s members were buff and athletic

“Oh, no, muscle heads,” said Rarity

“Hey,” said Applejack

“Oh, not you dear, you have feminine charm on your side unlike them,” said Rarity

“Thank you,” said Applejack with a sense of doubt in her voice

“Anyway, enough fashion mumble jumble, what’s the plan Twi?” asked Rainbow Dash

“Well, judging by their posture and bodies, you can tell they fancy speed and counters as they’re favored ways of fighting… and by the formation they have taken up, they plan to do just that, so… VIPER FORMATION, GLADIATOR CHARGE!!” said Twilight as the girls quickly got into position.

“This brings back memories,” thought Rainbow Dash

“NOW!!!” screamed Twilight as the 2 teams charged each other

Before the teams made contact though, Twilight and Rarity, casted “Holy Shield” and “Eclipse” to engulf them while charging

“What the…?” said Mister Bristle as he and the rest of his team was sent flying out of the stage

“AND IT’S DONE, RAINBOW DASH AND HER TEAM ARE OFF TO THE NEXT STAGE, AND THEY WILL BE FIGHTING AGAINST… REAPER!!!” said the anchor

As soon as this name escaped his lips, Twilight and the rest of the girls stopped on their tracks

“THOSE FOOLS AGAIN!!!” said Twilight

“Wait? What’s going on?” asked Rainbow Dash as the members of Reaper came out into the stage

“We meet again, princesses,” said Astral Dark

“Oh, it’s Grim’s stalkers, I MEAN, fan club, wow I didn’t know you guys could fight,” said Rainbow Dash with a smirk

“You humor us Rainboom,” said Astral Dark

“But don’t think we’ll go easy on you just because you were Grim’s girlfriend!” said Saffron

The mention of this made Rainbow Dash’s face turn red

“I thought you guys weren’t a couple,” said Fluttershy

“Well… I never got to ask him out, so…” said Rainbow Dash

“WAIT?! You’re saying you guys aren’t dating?” said Saffron

“UH no, I don’t even know where he is… but I do miss him,” said Rainbow Dash

“That means I still have a chance with him, I only have to find him,” said Saffron

“HEY! BACK OF THE LINE BITCH, THE ETERNAL IS MINE!!!” said Ruby Aura

“NO, HE IS MINE!!!!” said another member called Nightlight Aura

“Dude, do something about your sister and cousins will ya,” said Grave Watcher

“Meh not worth the hustle, plus, if they end up finding him, I might end up being his brother-in-law,” said Astral Dark

“Is it just me, or did this get weirder by the second,” said Applejack

“Agreed,” said Sunset Shimmer

“Girls,” said Fluttershy

“Yeah?” they all said

“I don’t think Rainbow Dash took their comments well,” said Fluttershy as she pointed to an enraged Rainbow Dash

“Oh dear, she’s entering berserker mode,” said Fluttershy

“Quick, Sombra formation, Lightning dash,” said Twilight

“FIGHT!!” said the anchor

And both teams were off.

‘ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDINING ME?!!!!” said Sunset SHimmer

“I REALLY, REALLY HATE THOSE GUYS,” said Twilight as they sat at a table at the burger bar

“Well, it was fun while it lasted,” said Rarity

“Yeah, plus I was able to knock some sense into those whores,” said Rainbow Dash

“Wow, I’ve never seen you act so possessive of someone… except Tank,” said Fluttershy

“WAIT!!! Who is Tank?” they asked

“He isn’t your boyfriend right?” asked Applejack

“NO!” said Rainbow Dash

“Your… son?” asked Twilight

“WHAT?! NO I’M… I”m still a virgin,” Rainbow Dash whispered

“Really?!” they all said

“Yeah… I want to have my first time with him,” said Rainbow Dash

“Oh… then who is Tank?” asked Sunset Shimmer

“My pet tortoise,” said Rainbow Dash

“Well that’s somethin’ I didn’t expect to hear!” said Applejack as she and the other laughed

“Yes, well… You know Rainbow Dash… the offer is still there if you wanted, even though we weren’t able to complete your challenge,” said Twilight

“Well, it was mission impossible, you gals are still miles away from being able to fight the teams in the 2nd and 1st stages… plus, I think I found something better than reliving old glories,” said Rainbow Dash

“And what is that?” asked Twilight

“Friends,” she said

“What about Grim?” asked Rarity

“I’ll see him again, if not in this life, maybe in heaven or in the next,” said Rainbow Dash

“So, does that mean?” asked Twilight

“Where do I sign?” said Rainbow Dash as she took out a pen

Twilight then gave her the contract and she filled it up

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
Rarity Belle 28 5’7” (1.69) 44 - 32 - 32 Defender
Applejack 28 5'9" (1.75) 43 - 30 - 40 Warrior/Tank/Winger
Big Macintosh 30 7'0" (2.15) Tank
Rainbow Dash 29 5’4” (1.62M) 38 - 25 - 40 Warrior/Winger

Twilight Sparkle 92 OVR
Sunset Shimmer 91 OVR
Pinkie Pie 91 OVR
Fluttershy 90 OVR
Rarity Belle 90 OVR
Applejack 95 OVR
Big Mac 98 OVR
Rainbow Dash 115 OVR

“Wait… who is Big Mac?” asked Rainbow Dash

“Mah older brother, he ain’t here but will help us out,” said Applejack

“Funny,” said Rainbow Dash

“What is?” asked Twilight

“He shares the same height with Grim,” said Rainbow Dash with a smile

“Well mah brother was not Grim, he never left the town,” said Applejack

“I know, Grim didn’t have a southern accent, it was more like… the Canterlot Royal accent,” said Rainbow Dash

This made Twilight remember something, but decided to brush it off

“Well, I better contact our them, telling them we’re coming back,” said Twilight as she took out her phone and dialed

BACK IN CANTERLOT

“... SO PLEASE, HEAD OUT AND FIND HER, BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE!!” said Princess Celestia as she addressed the royal guard

“Sis, don’t you think you’re going a bit too far?” asked Luna

“DO YOU WANT TO REPEAT WHAT HAPPENED TO HIM WITH TWILIGHT, I REFUSE TO LOSE HER AS WELL!!” said Celestia

“Discord, just tell her,” said Luna

“I can’t, I told Twilight I wouldn’t, scouts honor,” said Discord manifesting a scout uniform

“You weren’t a scout,” said Luna

“I surely was… not, but still…” said Discord as his phone rang

BEEP BEEP BEEP

“Hello, Discord lord of Despair talking… Oh Twilight, good to hear from you…” said Discord

The moment Discord mention her name, Celestia charged for his cellphone

“Oh, everything is fine, so do you have any, UFF…” said Discord as Celestia shoved him so hard he flew straight into the wall cracking it

“Twilight! Are you ok?... oh thank God… the jobs done? Wonderful… tonight?... of course, we’ll be waiting… where are you by the way?... Mareami! Well, that’s lovely, see you tonight dear,” said Celestia as she hung up the phone

“So?” asked Luna

“Guards, cancel the search, head to the train station to welcome them!” said Celestia as she walked over to her husband to free him from the cracked outline of himself on the wall.

BACK WITH THE GIRLS

“Ready to go?!” Twilight asked

“Once I finish my onion rings and beer,” said Rainbow Dash

At the mention of this, Twilight’s belly rumbled

“You know what? I could eat something,” she said

“Yeah, well order something, I ain’t sharing my rings,” said Rainbow Dash

“Weird, you used to hate them,” said Fluttershy

This just made Rainbow dash glare at her

“Oh… I take it he loved onion rings,” said Fluttershy, as she saw Rainbow Dash’s face turn red.

“Someday… I know it… we will meet again,” thought Rainbow Dash as she took another bit of her onion rings.